istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

  • Beşiktaş (Ortaköy)– Giftware
  • Beyoğlu (Cihangir)– Antique Goods and Designer Items
  • Beyoğlu / Fatih (Eminönü) / Kadıköy – Turkish Delight (Lokum)
  • Beyoğlu / Fatih (Eminönü) – Turkish Coffee
  • Beyoğlu / Fatih (Eminönü) / Kadıköy – Akide Candy
  • Beyoğlu (Galip Dede Street) – Musical Instruments
  • Beyoğlu (Istiklal Street) – Second Hand Books, Giftware
  • Beyoğlu (Şişhane) – Chandelier/Light Fixtures
  • Beykoz – Beykoz Glass Art
  • Eyüpsultan – Eyüp Toys
  • Eyüpsultan – Eyüp Ring
  • Fatih, Beyazıt- Sahaflar Çarşısı (Second Hand Book Market) – Sahaf (Second Hand Book Seller)
  • Fatih (Cağaloğlu) – Books
  • Fatih (Gedikpaşa) – Footwear
  • Fatih (Grand Bazaar) – Jewelry, Rugs, Fabrics, Antiques, Giftware
  • Fatih-Horhor Bit Pazarı (Flea Market) – Antiques, Curio
  • Fatih (Laleli) – Clothing, Footwear, Accessories, Giftware
  • Fatih (Mahmutpaşa) – Dowry, Clothing, Accessories
  • Fatih (Sirkeci) – Watches, Eyeglasses, Electronics
  • Fatih, Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar)- Spices, Giftware
  • Fatih (Sultanhamam ) – Fabrics
  • Fatih (Unkapanı) – Istanbul Drapers Bazaar
  • Merter – Textile
  • Şile- Şile Cloth
  • Şişli (Nişantaşı) – Clothing
  • Zeytinburnu – Leather

Ortaköy Mosque (Büyük Mecidiye Mosque) is the most important symbol of this neighbourhood. The counters that are set up on the streets are full of colorful, unique handmade giftware which are impossible to find anywhere else. May be a wool knit hat, may be a book marker or a piece of jewelry… Besides, eating Ortaköy’s famous “kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes)” whilst walking through the counters is most enjoyable.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Named after the mosque built in the name of Süleyman the Magnificient’s son Cihangir, this neighbourhood is one of the most vivid, cosmopolitan places in Istanbul. Neighbouring Çukurcuma is a true antiques center. You can find original antique pieces as well as designer items manufactured from the blend of old and new. Nearby Tomtom neighbourhood is on it’s way to being today’s designer hub. Shopping there and enjoying your Turkish Coffee in fine cafes will let you live an unforgettable day in Istanbul, full of art.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

“Lokum” means Turkish Delight and it is an indispensable part of our festive treats and coffee ceremonies. It is also in our verbal culture for describing “perfection”. Turkish Delight holds a significant place in traditional Turkish dessert culture. You can establish a sweet bond with your loved ones with a box of Turkish Delight that you can buy from one of the historical sweet shops.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Turkish Coffee is an important part of daily life in Türkiye. We have an old saying in our country that “having a cup of Turkish Coffee with a beloved one creates unforgettable memories which will be remembered for forty years”. It’s always part of our happy memories, long conversations and break times. One of the reasons which makes Turkish coffee so special is that, it has its own rituals. Its acquisition, the way it’s prepared and drank is considerably different from other coffee varieties. It’s one of the indispensable flavors you can buy at Eminönü and sip with your loved ones. After enjoying your coffee, you may make your fortune read from the cups which is part of the tradition in Türkiye. Another saying regarding Turkish Coffee is: “The heart neither wishes coffee, nor the coffee house; heart wishes to be with companions, coffee is the excuse” which emphasizes its role within our communication culture.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

The history of “Akide Candy” goes back to the Ottoman Empire times. It takes its name from the word “akid” which means “agreement”. Akide candy was distributed to the janissaries during important ceremonies and their acceptance of this candy was symbolizing their loyalty to the Empire. You can purchase Akide Candy from one of the historical candy shops during your visit to İstanbul.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Galip Dede Street is the road that goes down from Tunnel Square to Galata, Kuledibi. Musical instruments stores are here for almost 30 years, taking the place of antique shops, philatelic stores, bookstores and patisseries. While walking around this street where you can find every kind of musical instruments and equipment for sound systems and you can also witness the history dating back to the Genoese times.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

In different alleys and passages of Beyoğlu, you can find second hand book shops where you can live distinct experiences. In second hand book shops you can discover new things on every visit and find books in different languages as well. Besides, Beyoğlu is also one of the best places to shop for giftware. Either inside historical arcades or alleys extending along the road, you may find unique giftware reminding Istanbul.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Chandelier, is one of the most important decorative elements which brings warmth to our living spaces and reflects the soul of the location. Nowadays Şişhane is a region renowned for stores where chandeliers are produced and sold. On your visit to Beyoğlu, you can buy a chandelier from the stores at Şişhane and enlight your home.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

A new advancement was made in Ottoman glass art at the beginning of 19th century. A Mevlevi Dervish named Mehmet Dede was sent to Italy (1807) by Sultan Selim III, to learn glass art and enhance his knowledge. After working in Italy for a while, he has opened a glass work shop in the town of Beykoz and started to produce a variety of glass work. Later on, this art was named after the town where it was produced. Beykoz Style Glass Art offers examples of gulabdans (rose water bottles), pitchers, casters, bowl examples with different techniques and patterns such as Çeşm-i Bülbül, Maydonozlu, Mine (glazed) Décor and Yaldızlı (gilded). On your visit to Istanbul, you can make your loved ones happy with gifts of Beykoz Style Glass Art.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

During the Ottoman Empire period, Eyüp neighbourhood became a toy manufacturing center and the toys manufactured here were named as “Eyüp Toys”. On your visit to Eyüp you can witness history and buy one of the many toys such as nightingale whistle, çınçın cars, pin wheels, timbal (dümbelek), wooden chairs, wooden cradles, wooden trucks-buses, trumpets, tambourines.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

“Eyüp Ring” is a type of brittle salted cookie made of flour, oil, salt and small amount of water. Just like simit, buns, cookies; eating Eyüp Rings is a way of filling one’s appetite cheaply and quickly. It can be enjoyed as a snack during tea hours and between meals. You can also leave a nice taste in your loved ones’ palates by buying Eyüp Rings on your visit to Eyüp, one of the oldest neighbourhoods of İstanbul.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Sahaflar Çarşısı (Second Hand Book Market) behind the Beyazıt Mosque is used to be known as the Engravers’ Market. Second Hand Book sellers started to settle in Beyazıt and around the Grand Bazaar in 1890s. After the fire in 1950, the bazaar was rebuilt with concrete and completely reserved for book sales. In the market, where you can feel the history of centuries, it’s possible to find used books and giftware.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Cağaloğlu is one of the neighbourhoods of the historical town of Fatih that is famous for publishing companies, printing houses and secondhand books dealers. There is no Turkish writer, journalist, artist who had not witnessed the historical identity of Cağaloğlu along with its scent of books. On your visit to Cağaloğlu, you can visit many bookstores either on the same street or in the same building.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Gedikpaşa is one of Istanbul’s oldest neighbourhoods that is located in the Historical Peninsula. On your visit to Istanbul you can find almost anything related to “footwear” from materials to manufacturers, from wholesalers to stores at Gedikpaşa.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

With more than 500 years of history, Grand Bazaar is known as the grand mother of all shopping malls. The building which is a symbol of Ottoman architectural identity was completely destroyed by the 1894 earthquake and rebuilt at 1898. It’s possible to purchase jewelry mainly made of gold or silver and other gem stones in Grand Bazaar. Rugs, fabrics, antiques and giftware shops are other must see spots of this center. Visiting Grand Bazaar allows you to breathe the history of Istanbul and witness it’s economic dynamics. Paying a visit is “a way to experience Istanbul in a covered bazaar”.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

“Horhor Bit Pazarı (Flea Market)” is one of the most important centers for antiques in Istanbul. It’s practically impossible not to find an item for your taste in one of the 200 stores sited in the 7 storey han (large commercial building). Even having a conversation with experienced antique dealers and following the history of antiques will be an experience to cherish. If you want your weathered antiques to be restored, Flea Market is also the place to visit.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Laleli is situated between Beyazıt and Aksaray and it takes its name from Laleli Baba who lived during the period of Sultan Mustafa III (1757-1774). Today it is one of the important trade centers of Istanbul . A wide variety of clothes, textile materials, shoes, accessories are produced here and exported to other countries. There are also many giftware stores for tourists in this area.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Nowadays part of the town of Fatih, Mahmutpaşa has always been an important shopping hub. Adjacent hans and stores in narrow streets are clustered according to the goods they sell from towels to slippers, clothing to accessories. Going to Mahmutpaşa and shopping for important ceremonies such as engagements, weddings, circumcision celebrations is a must do for the Istanbulites. Dowry is carefully selected from the stores at Mahmutpaşa, all the necessary supplies for engagement and wedding preparations are also found there. Boys are also brought to Mahmutpaşa for circumcision ceremony to buy the clothes they like most. For Hajj, the religious obligation that requires the most preparation, Mahmutpaşa is also the first place to visit. Presents for friends and family are also available in Mahmutpaşa.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Sirkeci is one of the most dynamic and touristic places in Istanbul’s Historical Peninsula. In the hans (historical large commercial buildings) between Eminönü and Sirkeci it is possible to find electronics, watches, eyeglasses, sunglasses and many other goods for every budget.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Sited next to Yeni Mosque at Eminönü, Spice Market was commissioned to Architect Kasım Ağa by Valide Turhan Sultan at 1660. Spices which were brought from Egypt were distributed from this market back then. That’s why it is also known as Egyptian Bazaar. In the bazaar, it is possible to find spices from all over Türkiye and the world, including giftware. Upon entrance, the visitors are struck by the aroma of a variety of spices.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

In the streets of Sultanhamam, you can easily find hundreds of varieties of fabric from crep to taffeta, poplin to cambric, silk to satin. The neighbourhood, which is between Sirkeci and Mahmutpaşa, where rows of fabric stores are sited always held an important place in the old town. It’s one of the centers where you can purchase fabrics on your visit to Eminönü.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Sited between Unkapanı and the Bozdoğan Kemeri (Valence Aqueduct) this bazaar was built in the 1960s. Developed and planned to meet the need of a new space for drapers and fabric wholesalers around Sultanhamam; this bazaar is one of the first modern architectural buildings of Istanbul and includes decorative elements from some of the foremost artists of the time. Today, besides being the center of upholstery fabric, curtain, wall paper and flooring material stores, it’s also an important center for music companies.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

The center which was built in the 1960s is a main hub for Turkish textile commerce. Merter, where you can find any textile products, hosts thousands of brands. The area in which you can find both retail and wholesale stores is always vivid with its hotels, restaurants and centers of trade.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

“Şile cloth” is a cotton cloth which is produced in the town of Şile with techniques specific to the region. Şile cloth weaving, which is named after the town, is one of the most important handicrafts of the region. Şile cloth is highly sought-after because of being comfortable, light, healthy and natural. Şile cloth is still being woven today in Şile and in its villages. You shouldn’t return from a trip to Şile without buying products made of this special cloth.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

One of the most fashionable neighbourhoods of Istanbul is Nişantaşı that is nearby Maçka, Teşvikiye, Harbiye and Osmanbey. Trendy clothing and accessories are put on display here. Anything related to clothing from world’s high end brands to haute couture can be found in this area. It’s possible to step into the elegant world of art from sculptures to furniture, galleries to auction houses in Nişantaşı.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

History of leather trade at Zeytinburnu dates back to the reign of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror. During that period the region became a main production hub after tanneries located in different areas of Anatolia were moved to Zeytinburnu, to produce leather goods which are required by the soldiers. Relocation of leather businesses run by Greeks to this area, also accelerated the development of leather tanning in this area. Today, even though tanneries which used to be in the region are relocated to Tuzla for environmental reasons; the district continues to be one of the places where visitors can easily access all kinds of leather goods.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

World Cities Culture Forum

  • City Projects
  • Publications

External links

  • Istanbul Directorate of Culture and Tourism
  • Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality

Byzantine Wonders to Contemporary Culture: İstanbul’s Tourist Appeal

Europe’s most populous metropolitan area, with 15 million residents and a rapidly growing economy and cultural scene.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Cultural Heritage

It is an ancient city with an unparalleled cultural heritage, as well as a robust economy, a youthful population, and a burgeoning contemporary cultural scene. The challenge it faces is to leverage these opportunities while effectively managing growth to preserve the uniqueness of its culture and heritage.

İstanbul, with its millennia of history, unique architectural structures, rich cultural tapestry, large population, and dynamic economic activity, remains a significant centre of attraction today. It served as the capital during the Roman, Eastern Roman/Byzantine and Ottoman eras. However, history does not conclude in İstanbul. History here is not confined to books and archives alone; it resides in the buildings, streets, cemeteries, parks, gardens, and even the trees, plants, and neighbourhood names.

İstanbul is immensely rich in cultural heritage, and the historic peninsula of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some landmarks date back to Roman times, including the monumental Valens Aqueduct. However, buildings from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras dominate the city’s skyline. The Hagia Sophia was inaugurated in 537 AD and was the world’s largest cathedral. Today it is a mosque. The 16th-century Süleymaniye Mosque and the 17th-century Blue Mosque are two of the most important historical buildings. Other landmarks of the Ottoman era include the Topkapi Palace, which served as the residence and administrative centre of the Ottoman sultans for centuries.

Embracing Change

Its population has grown rapidly since the middle of the 20th century, mainly driven by internal migration from Turkey’s rural areas. One of the city’s major challenges is dealing with the consequences of this growth and accommodating its new residents while retaining access to green space, water resources and a high quality of life. Recent years have seen a number of substantial additions to the city’s infrastructure to address these issues. For instance, there are eleven National Gardens currently under implementation in order to provide open and green areas based around aesthetic, ecological and sustainable values.

New transport links are an important part of the city’s infrastructure development. The Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, the Marmaray Tunnel, the Eurasia Tunnel and Kuzey Marmara Highway are the most significant links. In addition İstanbul Airport is serving as one of the world’s largest airport.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

The Role of the Policymaker

Cultural and heritage policy in İstanbul is shaped by various bodies, including the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Public investment primarily focuses on heritage restoration and the establishment of cultural centres. Çamlıca Tower, Turkey’s tallest tower, has been a tourist destination since May 2021, offering both locals and tourists the opportunity to enjoy a 360-degree view of İstanbul. In addition to preserving cultural heritage, the Go İstanbul platform also promotes a tourism strategy that appeals to all five senses: sight, taste, smell, touch, and hearing.

The city’s cultural policy is overseen by the İstanbul Directorate of Culture and Tourism, which operates under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and plays several crucial roles. These responsibilities include the preservation and conservation of historical and archaeological sites, the promotion of arts and culture, the management of cultural services such as libraries, and conducting research and policy development to enhance the cultural lives of citizens.

The Directorate collaborates closely with the city’s cultural institutions to coordinate cultural activities and offerings. One notable institution is the İstanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV), a non-profit cultural organisation established in 1973. IKSV organises various events, including music, film, theatre, and jazz festivals, the İstanbul Biennial, İstanbul Design Biennial, Leyla Gencer Voice Competition, and Filmekimi. Furthermore, IKSV conducts research and produces reports to contribute to the development of cultural policies.

Like many other historical cities, İstanbul grapples with the dilemma of modernisation versus preservation. Extensive studies have been conducted on this matter. For instance, the historically significant Karaköy area has transformed into a trendy and artistic neighbourhood. The Galataport Project aims to turn this area into a new gateway to İstanbul, featuring a major cruise ship terminal, a luxury hotel, and cultural and art centres, including İstanbul Modern and the Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University Painting and Sculpture Museum. The Golden Horn shipyard (Tersane İstanbul), established by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in the 15th century, is currently undergoing restoration and is poised to become a new cultural destination in the city.

With the relocation of the Sadberk Hanım Museum to Tersane İstanbul, along with its hotels, offices, spaces for fishermen, and restaurants, the complex will offer a multifunctional living space. Another iconic İstanbul landmark, the Atatürk Cultural Centre, which has been under construction since 2012, has now started hosting performing arts and exhibitions with its unique architecture.

İstanbul is an ancient city with an unparalleled cultural heritage, a robust economy, a youthful population, and an increasingly vibrant contemporary cultural scene. Its challenge lies in capitalising on these opportunities while effectively managing growth to preserve the uniqueness of its culture and heritage.

Images copyright © Getty Images / Canva

Related City Projects

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Design thinking shapes the future of İstanbul’s neighbourhoods

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

İstanbul’s historical gem: Beyoğlu culture route raises awareness of city heritage

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Music for peace: İstanbul’s inclusive choir inspires harmony among youth

  • 15,840,900 Population
  • 5,461 Area SQKM
  • 1 UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • 1.60% Creative jobs
  • 7,980,311 Tourists P.A.
  • 48 Libraries
  • 40 Music venues
  • 5,411,419 Cinema admissions
  • 2.20% Green space %
  • Istanbul is rich in cultural heritage from its history as a Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman capital
  • After becoming a European Capital of Culture in 2010 it has developed its contemporary cultural offer, with new museums including the Hilye-i Şerif and Prayer Beads Museum
  • The Istanbul Biennial is a major event on the international visual art circuit, attracting over 500,000 visitors

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DISCOVER THE OLD CITY, A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE !!

Explore İstanbul's Top Historical Landmarks & Museums Which Resided Many Cultures And Religions For Centuries Of History. Masterpieces Of Roman, Byzantium And Ottoman Architecture; The City Of Ancient Empires; İSTANBUL!!.

İSTANBUL IS THE ONLY CITY IN THE WORLD THAT STRADDLES ON TWO CONTINENTS

İstanbul Has a Timeless Charm Throughout Its Historical Legacy As a Roman, Byzantine And Ottoman Capital, A Unique City With Its 7 Hills, Bosphorus And The Natural Harbor Golden Horn.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL TREASURES OF TÜRKİYE ARE WIDE OPEN WITH THE MUSEUM PASSES

Museum Passes Of Türkiye Grant You To Visit The Historical And Cultural Treasures Of Türkiye Free Of Charge. And Without Waiting Long Hours in the Queue at the Ticket Boxes of İstanbul Museums.

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İSTANBUL MUSEUMS

As Türkiye’s most densely populated city, İstanbul is home to considerable percentage of fascinating museums and historical monuments. Türkiye's Statistical Institute (Türkiye İstatistik Kurumu) reported that there are more than 300 museums throughout the Türkiye. Most visited and wanted to visit museums are located in İstanbul, with more than 70 state and private museums uncovering a whole range of artifacts and offering the chance to explore the old city's rich history.

İstanbul’s most important monuments began to emerge in the Byzantine period and the city was then beautified further during the days of the Ottoman Empire era which reveal by magnificence, stability and wealth. For more than 1600 years İstanbul was the capital city of dignified empires like Roman, Byzantine and ultimately the Ottomans. Old city İstanbul was embellished respectively with imperial monuments and composed a metropolis where diverse cultures, nations and religions mixed. Those cultures, nations, traditions and religions are the texture of İstanbul which constituted by history of mankind.

You can visit below state museums with İstanbul pass which offered by city culture and tourism department. İstanbul's museums pose a glimpse into the rich culture of the ancient city and gives you a heart-warming welcome.

(2) İstanbul Archaeology Museums

(Next to Topkapı Palace Museum Complex) ( GoogleMaps )

(3) Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

(Across The Blue Mosque) ( GoogleMaps )

(4) Galata Tower Museum

(Near Galata Mevlevi Museum) ( GoogleMaps )

(5) Great Palace Mosaics Museum

(Byzantine Palace Mosaics – Behind Blue Mosque) ( GoogleMaps )

(6) Rumeli Fortress Museum

(Castle Next To 2nd Bridge of Bosphorus) ( GoogleMaps )

(7) Maiden's Tower Museum

(Small Lantern Tower On a Bosphorus Straight Islet) ( GoogleMaps )

(8) Hagia Irene Museum

(Located Inside The Topkapı Palace Museum's First Yard) ( GoogleMaps )

(9) Topkapı Palace Museum Harem

(Located Inside The Topkapı Palace Museum) ( GoogleMaps )

(10) Galata Mevlevi House Museum

(Whirling Dervishes Museum – Near Galata Tower Museum) ( GoogleMaps )

(11) Fethiye (Pammakaristos)Museum

(Former Greek Orthodox Patriarchal Church) ( GoogleMaps )

(12) Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam

(Inside The Gülhane Park Which is Adjacent to and on the Grounds of the Topkapı Palace Museum) ( GoogleMaps )

(13) Adam Mickiewicz Museum

(Historic house museum dedicated to the life of Adam Mickiewicz, renowned Polish poet) ( GoogleMaps )

İstanbul Museum Pass offers additional discounts  from private museums to various tourist attractions across the city.

“Either I conquer İstanbul or İstanbul conquers me.” Fatih Sultan Mehmet, (1432 – 1481)

sultanahmet camii

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Emergency Numbers

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Medical emergency / Ambulance: 112 Fire: 110 Police: 155 Forest fires: 177 Missing child / Women’s helpline: 183

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Pharmacies are open Monday to Saturday from 09:00 to 19:30. Most are closed on Sundays, but there is always one pharmacy in an area open 24 hours.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

ATMs can be found all around the country. All of them offer foreign language options and pay out Turkish liras. Cash withdrawal limits vary from bank to bank and are around 500$/€ to 1.000$/€ TL

Changing Money

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Foreign Exchange offices, which are known as “döviz bürosu” can be found throughout the country. Operating hours are mostly Monday to Friday, from 09:00 to 17:00. In the arrivals section of Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport, there are 24-hour Exchange offices. Also, the Exchange offices located in shopping malls and touristic areas are open later and on Saturdays. US Dollars and Euros are accepted in highly touristic districts like Sultanahmet and Taksim but rates are often better.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

The Turkish lira is the official currency. Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 TL.

Credit Cards

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Credit cards are widely used and accepted. Visitors can use their Visa, Master-cards, Amex and Diner’s.

Business And Banking Hours

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism’s Tourism Information Offices help all visitors to reach all kinds of information and documents they need. For more please call +90 212 518 10 21 Istanbul Tourism Police +90 212 527 45 03 WhatsApp: +90 505 187 6614 Instagram: istanbultourismpolice

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

To enter into Türkiye visas are required but most of the visas can be purchased for 10 Euro or 20 dollars at Türkiye’s airports or border gates. Since the information of visas is changeable, please contact the visa information for foreigners on Turkish Foreign Ministry website. www.mfa.gov.tr Türkiye’s electronic online visa application system offers to its applicants a comfortable and practical way to obtain visa. www.evisa.gov.tr

Demographics

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

İstanbul is the largest populated city of Türkiye with a population of 15.1 million.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

UTC / GMT + 2 hours

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

220 volts, 50 cycle. Most hotels have a receptacle with 110 volts. Socket type is standard European two-pin.

Weight And Measures

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Metric System

Official Holidays

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

  • April 23rd: National Sovereignty and Children’s Day.
  • May 19th: The Commemoration of Atatürk Youth and Sports Day.
  • August 30th: Victory Day.
  • October 29th: Republic Day.
  • 1st of May: Worker’s Day.
  • Ramadan: 13-15 May (only for 2021)
  • Eid Al-Adha: 20-23 July (only for 2021)

Nature & Climate

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

İstanbul is a city where four seasons can be experienced. Spring and autumn are two unpredictable seasons with a range from chilly to warm. The average winter weather is between 5 C and 9 C. During the summers, average temperature is between 18 C and 28 C. The hottest months are July and August while the coldest months are January and February.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Istanbul’s telephone service has two area codes, one for the Anatolian side and one for the European. If the land line you need to call is on the other side, you must also include its area code (0216 for the Anatolian side and 0212 for the European side). Türkiye’s country code is 90.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

In Istanbul, you can find world- class hospitals and medical facilities. Many doctors in Türkiye speak English. In an emergency, foreigners who do not have social security insurance can go to any hospital, where they will not be charged.

Post Offices

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Post Offices and the Postal Service in Türkiye are generally abbreviated to PTT. ( www.ptt.gov.tr)

Practical Turkish

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

  • Hello Merhaba (mehr hah bah)
  • How are you? Nasılsın? (na suhl suhn)
  • Fine, thank you İyiyim, teşekkürler (ee yee yeem teh shek ür lerr)
  • What is your name? Adın ne? ( ad uhn ne) My name is___ Adım ___ (Ad uhm___)
  • Nice to meet you Memnun oldum (mem noon oll doom)
  • Please Lütfen (Luet fen)
  • Thank you Teşekkür ederim (teh shek uer eh der emm)
  • You’re welcome Bir şey değil ( bir shey de yeel)
  • Yes Evet (eh vet)
  • No Hayır (hah yuhr)
  • Excuse me? Bakar mısınız? (bah kar muh suh nuhz)
  • Excuse me? (begging pardon) Afedersiniz (af air dair sin niz)
  • I’m sorry Özür dilerim (ö zuer dil air rim)
  • Goodbye Hoşçakalın (hsh cha kaluhn)
  • Goodbye Güle güle (guele guele)
  • Good morning Günaydın (guen eye duhn)
  • Good afternoon Tünaydın (tuen eye duhn)
  • Good day İyi günler (e yee guen ler)
  • Good evening İyi akşamlar (e yee ak aham lar)
  • Good night İyi geceler (e yee ge jay ler)
  • Good night (to sleep) İyi uykular (e yee yoo ku lar)
  • Welcome Hoşgeldin (hosh gel din)
  • I don’t understand Anlamıyorum (an la muh yor uhm)
  • Where is the touilet? Tuvalet nerede? (too va let ner eh de?

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

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Unesco social media, historic areas of istanbul, factors affecting the property in 2021 *.

  • Commercial development
  • Ground transport infrastructure
  • Management activities
  • Management systems/ management plan
  • Underground transport infrastructure

decay and loss of Ottoman/vernacular architecture

Factors * affecting the property identified in previous reports

  • Ground/underground transport infrastructure
  • Low impact research/monitoring activities
  • Management systems/management plan
  • Loss of integrity and authenticity: decay and loss of Ottoman/vernacular architecture

UNESCO Extra-Budgetary Funds until 2021

Total amount granted: USD 211,900 (Conservation of Hagia Sophia); USD 36,686.30 (Convention France-UNESCO); USD 155,000 (in the framework of the International Safeguarding Campaign for Istanbul and Göreme)

International Assistance: requests for the property until 2021

Missions to the property until 2021 **.

November 1997: ICOMOS Reactive Monitoring mission; October 1998: World Heritage Centre/ICOMOS Reactive Monitoring mission; January 2000, May 2001, 2002, December 2003, 2004: World Heritage Centre missions; April 2006, May 2008, April 2009, November 2012: World Heritage Centre/ICOMOS Reactive Monitoring mission; December 2016: World Heritage Centre/ICOMOS Reactive Monitoring mission; April 2019: Joint World Heritage Centre/ICOMOS Advisory mission; October 2020: UNESCO Advisory mission; January/February 2021: UNESCO Advisory mission.

Conservation issues presented to the World Heritage Committee in 2021

On 6 December 2019, the State Party submitted a report on the state of conservation of the property, available at  http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/356/documents/ , which outlines progress made in relation to the requests of the Committee, and current projects, as follows:

  • An urgent Action Plan was implemented for simple maintenance and repair of 10 privately owned Ottoman timber houses in Süleymaniye. A similar project is ongoing for 10 Ottoman timber houses located in Zeyrek and for civil architecture in Süleymaniye;
  • Reconstruction projects have been undertaken for 20th century civil architecture buildings;
  • Simple repairs were made to the facade of numerous buildings and there have been surveys of 654 civil architecture buildings within Fatih Municipality;
  • Information is provided on completed and ongoing large-scale restoration projects at: Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Affiliated Units, Istanbul Archaeology Museum building, Basilica Cistern and Molla Gürani Mosque. Restoration works are in progress at several mosques, schools and burial sites;
  • A Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment report (CHIA) has been prepared for the Land Walls and the Fatih Municipality initiated a landscape design project to create a Land Walls National Garden;
  • A joint World Heritage Centre/ICOMOS Advisory mission in 2019 assessed the conservation and restoration work at the Molla Zeyrek Mosque, the Chora Museum, the Bucoleon Palace, the Land Walls and the Hagia Sophia Madrasa and confirmed that all projects meet international standards. The Hagia Sophia Madrasa reconstruction was previously positively assessed through an ICOMOS Technical Review;
  • Capacity building and public awareness activities were organized, including, for example:
  • a CHIA workshop for 100 participants, including representatives of central and local government, cultural heritage professionals, NGOs, private sector and academics;
  • Conservation and restoration training programs for Traditional Timber Structures, stone-making and wooden techniques, study tours, seminars and workshops were provided to graduate students and experts in architectural restoration;
  • A ‘Booklet for the Management of Disaster Risks against Cultural Heritage’ was published, following an earlier workshop in Istanbul and Ankara;
  • A ‘Conservation and Restoration Training Program for Traditional Timber Structures’ aimed at high school graduates;
  • An Istanbul Cultural Heritage Council was created to revise conservation and management policies, set a visionary framework and expand participation;
  • A CHIA for the Kazliçeşme Marina Project was completed and will be submitted to the World Heritage Centre once translated;
  • An Environment Impact Assessment (EIA), Feasibility Report and CHIA are in progress for the Yenikapi Cruise Port project;
  • The ‘Cultural Heritage Inventory Project’ will create a digital database for Istanbul and will allow compilation, classification and transformation of the archives into a spatial databank, up-to-date, accessible and open for query.

From May 2020 onwards, the World Heritage Centre received various information emanating from media sources but also from States Parties raising concerns on a possible change by the State Party of Turkey of the museum status of Hagia Sophia, to turn the monument into an active religious building. On 9 and 18 June 2020, the World Heritage Centre sent letters to the State Party of Turkey, reminding it of the spirit of the Convention, as well as its Operational Guidelines , according to which States Parties are responsible for the sustainable use of a property, must provide prior notice to the World Heritage Centre in case of any substantial modification and must ensure that no change in use adversely affects the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the property.

The change of status of Hagia Sophia and its conversion into a mosque were subsequently confirmed by a Turkish Court decision and a Presidential decree on 10 July 2020 that announced moreover transferring the management of the site to the Presidency of Religious Affairs. UNESCO issued a public statement on 10 July (see https://en.unesco.org/news/unesco-statement-hagia-sophia-istanbul ), stating that UNESCO deeply regrets the decision of the Turkish authorities, made without any prior discussion and called for the universal value of World Heritage to be preserved. ICOMOS and the International Council on Museums (ICOM) issued a joint statement on 16 July 2020 (see https://www.icomos.org/en/178-english-categories/news/76133-icomos-and-icom-joint-statement-on-hagia-sophia-istanbul-turkey ), noting among other concerns about accessibility, the importance of shared heritage and emphasising the multi-layered cultural richness of Hagia Sophia.

The State Party of Turkey responded to UNESCO on 20 July 2020 advising that a Cooperation Protocol was signed between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (formerly in charge of Hagia Sophia) and the Directorate General of Religious Affairs aiming at “ ensuring the preservation, development and sustainability of the historical, cultural, social, and spiritual values that are represented by (the) World Heritage Site and to duly address the aesthetic concern ”; also stating that “ no work or physical interventions which can harm the Outstanding Universal Value of Haghia Sophia, both tangible and non-tangible, can be carried out” and that “the World Heritage Centre will be informed beforehand of any restoration or infra-structure relating to the Grand Mosque”.

The Director General of UNESCO received a letter dated 24 July 2020 from the Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkey informing UNESCO of “ Turkey’s steps concerning the change of Hagia Sophia status into mosque” . The Minister’s letter underlined that “ the conservation and protection of the Hagia Sophia as an architectural masterpiece is under the full responsibility of the State ” which “ is to fulfill (this) responsibility through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and Article 2 of the Organisational Law of the Ministry entrusts it with the duty to protect our cultural heritage ”. It further stated that the “ UNESCO World Heritage Centre will be informed before the major restoration works that may affect the Hagia Sophia and its setting within Sultanahmet Archaeological Park and a cultural heritage impact assessment report will be prepared ”.  However, in the covering letter received from the Delegation of Turkey, it was advised that a number of changes had already been implemented, namely:

  • Visitors routes are determined. The property will be open for both worshippers and visitors;
  • Worship and visiting areas are separated;
  • Only during the prayer times, the apse mosaics on the mihrab in the worship area, the Imperial Gate Mosaic and the southwestern entrance mosaic (the vestibule mosaic) will be closed with a folding curtain system, the remaining mosaics and frescos will be kept as they are;
  • Felt is laid over the ground of the worship area and it is covered with a carpet;
  • The imperial coronation area within the main area (naos) is separated with esthetic barriers;
  • Works will be carried out in order to make the First Mahmut Fountain usable within the courtyard.

In late August 2020, the World Heritage Centre received information from media sources stating that the museum status of the Chora Museum, within the property, has been revoked by a Presidential decree to turn the monument into an active religious building. The World Heritage Centre sent to the State Party of Turkey a letter recalling its obligations as regards paragraphs 119 and 172 of the Operational Guidelines . 

In addition to the potential impact on the OUV of the property, linked to issues such as access and to physical interventions, the decision to change the status of these two components raised multiple questions, relating to the potential impact of this very change of status, on the OUV. Indeed, the justification for inscription of the property “Historic Areas of Istanbul”, underlined that it was built “at the crossroads of two continents” and one of the criteria under which the property was inscribed, criterion iii, refers to the “testimony to the Byzantine and Ottoman civilisations.” The immense symbolic importance, in particular of Hagia Sophia in this regard, is to be underlined. The absence of notification to the World Heritage Centre and to other stakeholders fails to fulfil the obligations of the State Party in relation with the World Heritage Convention and the Operational Guidelines . The consequences of the change of status are to be assessed in this context.

Further to the decisions of Turkey in July and August 2020 to turn Hagia Sophia and Chora into mosques, despite the fact that they were museums at the time of the inscription as integral components of the World Heritage property, the State Party of Turkey invited a UNESCO Advisory mission to the property (5 - 9 October 2020). The mission collected information relevant to the decision to change the status of the Hagia Sophia and Chora, and assessed any works done to both the interior and exterior of these components.

In reaction to numerous inaccurate statements and errors circulating in the press regarding the situation of Hagia Sophia and Chora, the UNESCO World Heritage Centre issued a public statement on 16 November 2020 (see https://whc.unesco.org/en/news/2197 ), recalling the July 2020 UNESCO statement and confirming that the results of the mission will be submitted to the World Heritage Committee at its next session.

Following the recommendations of the 2020 UNESCO Advisory mission, and on the invitation by the State Party of Turkey, a second UNESCO Advisory mission was carried out to the property (29 January – 3 February 2021) to complete the assessment conducted during the first mission. The mission looked in detail at the issues of access and physical interventions in Hagia Sophia and Chora, and their potential impact on the Outstanding Universal Value of the property, authenticity and integrity, through site visits and working meetings with key stakeholders.

The findings of both missions are available at https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/356/documents/ .

In late May 2021, the World Heritage Centre received third-party information regarding the addition of major light installations between the minarets of the Hagia Sophia. The World Heritage Centre shared this information with the State Party of Turkey in line with paragraph 174 of the Operational Guidelines .

Analysis and Conclusion by World Heritage Centre and the Advisory Bodies in 2021

The State Party has continued its efforts to streamline reporting on significant projects including through the 2019 joint Advisory mission. However, although project documentation has been submitted, this has typically occurred after decisions have been made to proceed and/or works have commenced, contrary to both the spirit and some specific requirements of the World Heritage Convention and the Operational Guidelines . In particular, prior notifications of major restorations or new constructions which may affect the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the property have not been submitted in accordance with Paragraph 172 of the Operational Guidelines . For a number of projects, no CHIA has been prepared. The CHIA process has been included in the revised draft Management Plan for the property, and the State Party advises that it is constantly drawing the need for CHIA to the attention of relevant authorities. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism organized a CHIA workshop, in conjunction with the 2019 mission, aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of the process and encouraging better implementation of CHIA procedures.

The revised draft Management Plan for the property should be reviewed in order to protect the attributes that convey the OUV of the property. This is an overdue matter of high priority, as these attributes underpin the policies and actions of the Management Plan and understanding them will help inform assessment of the heritage impact of recent and proposed changes at the property. There is reported progress on this item since Decision 42 COM 7B.31 (Manama, 2018), with the State Party currently working on the completion of the Plan through a focus group meeting and committing to submit the complete draft Management Plan to the World Heritage Centre for review.

The maintenance and repair of Ottoman timber and stone houses, reconstruction projects for 20th century civil architecture buildings, surveys and the repairs to building facades are all welcome. However, the State Party has not advised on how the Ottoman houses project relates to the long-term strategy for timber buildings requested by the Committee in Decision 42 COM 7B.31 .

Many proposed restoration and reconstruction projects are currently taking place or being planned. However, the Committee’s request that a strategic roadmap with a short- and long-term strategy covering all types of projects that may impact upon the OUV of the property has not been implemented. The Committee should reiterate its request that such a document be prepared in close cooperation with the World Heritage Centre and the Advisory Bodies.

Large-scale projects such as the Kazliçeşme Marina and the Yenikapi Cruise Port, will undoubtedly have a major effect on the city’s cruise tourism. The report mentions that in both cases, CHIAs are in progress and will be submitted to the World Heritage Centre. In addition to the CHIAs, the State Party should also submit an EIA, which addresses the consequences of additional tourism, to the World Heritage Centre before any irreversible decisions are taken.

The creation of the Istanbul Cultural Heritage Council in November 2019, which will reinforce participative levels among the different stakeholders and determine a future-looking plan for the city is welcome. The creation of a Cultural Heritage Inventory Project aiming at creating a digital database for Istanbul is also welcome, as it will enhance monitoring of state of conservation of the property.

The change of status of Hagia Sophia and Chora museums to turn both heritage buildings into active religious sites has been decided and implemented without prior notice to the World Heritage Centre, despite explicit and repetitive requests made in reference to Paragraphs 172 and 174 of the Operational Guidelines in the past years as well as during the weeks before the Presidential decree of 10 July 2020.

Widely publicized in the press, the revocation of their museum status, originally granted respectively in 1934 and 1945, has raised major international protests and concerns, especially regarding public access to both components of the property. Having regard to the obligations that arise under Article 5 of the World Heritage Convention , and the OUV of the property, it is important that provision should be made for ongoing access to and presentation of the multi-layered cultural richness of Hagia Sophia and Chora museums.

The invitation by the State Party for the 2020 and 2021 UNESCO Advisory missions to the property is welcomed. The missions’ findings and recommendations on the issues of access and physical interventions to date can be summarized as follows:

Access to the Hagia Sophia remains open to all visitors. The antique marble paving inside the prayer hall of Hagia Sophia is covered with a green/turquoise wool carpet. The mission recommended to analyse the degree of humidity created by the carpet and to consider enrolling rugs of more appropriate colours at prayer times. During prayers, mosaic panels on the ground floor level are covered by canvasses operated through electrical systems which do not touch the surface of the mosaics. Through this system, the mosaics are made visible for visitors outside of prayer times.

There is no new construction of lavatories in the southern part of the Hagia Sophia, as they are being installed in a former office building. The renovation works of the Hagia Sophia Madrasa are in its final phase. For the fitting out of the lavatories and the conclusion of the Madrasa works, the mission recommended to have a landscaping and circulation plan drawn up between these two buildings and the entrance to the Hagia Sophia, and to establish an "Archaeological Garden" regrouping the archaeological pieces scattered in the southern area of Hagia Sophia. A "Master Plan" for the entire Hagia Sophia area would be beneficial for a long-term vision of this area.

The site of Saint Sauveur in Chora (Kerya) will undergo a two-year large-scale conservation and enhancement project during which it will not be open for visitors. Consequently, the implementation of the decision to convert it into a mosque has been delayed. The mission recommended to take advantage of these two years to organise an International Seminar on "the conservation of mosaics and frescoes". Inside the Chora, arrangements to intermittently cover three mosaic panels during prayer times have already been completed. The coverings are electronically controlled and made in colours that do not contrast with the aesthetic of the naos. The mission recommended the authorities to also consider drafting a “Master Plan” for the Chora area.

Considering the outstanding symbolic significance of Hagia Sophia in particular, the Committee may wish to call on the State Party to take the recommendations from the missions into account, to inform the UNESCO World Heritage Centre of any proposed plans for major restoration or new construction projects that may affect the OUV of the property, and to pursue international cooperation and dialogue before any further major changes are implemented at the property.

Summary of the interventions

Decisions adopted by the committee in 2021.

  • Draft Decision

44 COM 7B.58

Historic areas of istanbul (turkey) (c 356).

The World Heritage Committee,

  • Having examined Document WHC/21/44.COM/7B.Add,
  • Recalling Decision 42 COM 7B.31 , adopted at its 42nd session (Manama, 2018), I
  • Thanks the State Party for inviting a joint World Heritage Centre/ICOMOS Advisory mission in April 2019; commends the State Party for the conservation and restoration work accomplished to international standards at a number of built structures within the property; and requests the State Party to implement fully all of the 2019 Advisory mission recommendations;
  • Welcomes the implementation of an urgent Action Plan to maintain and repair ottoman timber houses and reiterates its request to the State Party to provide information on how this relates to a long-term strategy for timber buildings within the property;
  • Also reiterates its request to the State Party to define the attributes that convey the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the property in the draft Management Plan as a matter of priority before it is completed; and also requests that the draft Management Plan is submitted to the World Heritage Centre for review by the Advisory Bodies before being formally adopted;
  • Noting the large number of proposed infrastructure and other projects at the property, further reiterates its request to the State Party to develop a progress report on these projects, together with a road-map including short and long-term strategies covering all types of project (development/renovation/renewal), which may have an impact on the OUV of the property, in close cooperation with the World Heritage Centre and the Advisory Bodies, before any irreversible decisions are taken, and submit this road map to the World Heritage Centre by 1 December 2021 ;
  • Further requests the State Party to undertake Heritage Impact Assessments, as well as Tourism and Environmental Impact Assessments for large-scale projects including the Kazliçeşme Marina and the Yenikapi Cruise Port that may have a negative impact on the OUV of the property; and submit such reports to the World Heritage Centre for review by the Advisory Bodies before any irreversible decisions are taken;
  • Welcomes the State Party’s invitation for two UNESCO Advisory missions in October 2020 and January/February 2021 to review the impacts of change of status of Hagia Sophia and Chora Museum on the OUV of the property;
  • Requests furthermore the State Party to implement fully all of the missions recommendations;
  • Deeply regrets the lack of dialogue and information from the State Party prior to the change of status of Hagia Sophia and Chora Museums, two components of the property, despite numerous requests addressed to the State Party to comply with paragraphs 172 and 174 of the Operational Guidelines ;
  • Expresses grave concern about the potential impact of changes at these key components may have on the Outstanding Universal Value of the property;
  • Calls on the State Party of Turkey to engage in international cooperation and dialogue before any further major change are implemented at the property;
  • Finally requests the State Party to submit to the World Heritage Centre, by 1 February  2022 , an updated report on the state of conservation of the property and the implementation of the above, for examination by the World Heritage Committee at its 45th session.

Draft Decision: 44 COM 7B.58

  • Recalling Decision 42 COM 7B.31 , adopted at its 42nd session (Manama, 2018),

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

Documents examined by the Committee

Soc report by the state party.

* : The threats indicated are listed in alphabetical order; their order does not constitute a classification according to the importance of their impact on the property. Furthermore, they are presented irrespective of the type of threat faced by the property, i.e. with specific and proven imminent danger (“ascertained danger”) or with threats which could have deleterious effects on the property’s Outstanding Universal Value (“potential danger”).

** : All mission reports are not always available electronically.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

  • Türkiye
  • Arts & Life

Over 2.7 million tourists visit Istanbul

  • August 03 2021 07:00:07

Over 2.7 million tourists visit Istanbul

More than 2.7 million foreign tourists visited Istanbul in the first six months of 2021, the provincial directorate of culture and tourism has said.

In June alone, the number of foreign arrivals amounted to 685,000 people and this was the highest figure in the past 16 months.

From January to June, nearly 682,000 visitors arrived by air and another 3,200 travelers by sea, according to official data.

Istanbul Airport welcomed 456,000 international holidaymakers, while 224,000 foreign visitors went through Sabiha Gökçen, the second largest airport in the megacity.

German nationals topped the list of foreign tourists at 71,000, accounting for a little more than 10 percent of all arrivals.

Iranians came second at 54,000, followed by U.S. citizens at 39,500.

Istanbul also welcomed 31,000 Ukrainians (4.6 percent of total visitors), around 29,600 Iraqis (4.3 percent), 28,000 French (4.09 percent) and 21,000 Russian (3.07 percent) tourists.

Nearly 15,000 Israeli holidaymakers arrived in the city in the first half of the year.

According to the official figures, people from 190 countries visited the city in June.

There was one visitor each from San Marino, Macao, Monaco, the Vatican, Brunei, the Solomon Islands, Swaziland and Tuvalu.

In the first half of this year, the number of foreign arrivals in Turkey surged 27.1 year-on-year, the Culture and Tourism Ministry said last week.

Nearly 5.8 million foreign nationals visited the country between January and June, an increase from 4.5 million in the same period last year.

In June alone, more than 2 million tourists visited Turkey, marking a significant increase from only 215,000 arrivals from a year ago.

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TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES

Improvement works are being targeted for tourist information offices to ensure the best service for tourists. For instance, the Tourist Offices page is planned to be updated after the completion of certain improvements such as the rearrangement of the offices, providing adequate equipment and materials for tourists, storage of arriving visitor information and data, etc.

istanbul directorate of culture and tourism

List of Tourist Information Offices Around the City

Sultanahmet tourist information office.

Address: Sirkeci Gari Yani, Ankara Cad. Hocapasa Mah. No:140 Sirkeci Fatih / ISTANBUL

Working Days/Hours: Every day of the week, 10.00 – 17.00

SIRKECI TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICE

Taksim tourist information office.

Address: AKM Yani, Devlet Opera ve Balesi Mudurlugu Girisi Kati Taksim / ISTANBUL

SABIHA GOKCEN TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICE

Address: Dis Hatlar Gelis Kurtkoy / ISTANBUL

Working Days/Hours: Every day of the week, 09.00 – 18.00

ISTANBUL AIRPORT TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICE

Address: Dis Hatlar Gelis Kati Arnavutkoy / ISTANBUL

KARAKOY TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICE

Address: Kılıçali Paşa Mah. Meclis-i Mebusan Cad. No: 8 İç Kapı No: 102, 34433 Beyoğlu/ ISTANBUL

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  • 2023 » Istanbul Tourism Surges by 17%, Surpassing Pre-Pandemic Levels…

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Istanbul Tourism Surges by 17%, Surpassing Pre-Pandemic Levels…

In the first six months of 2023, Istanbul saw a significant 17% rise in the number of foreign tourists, reaching a remarkable total of 7.9 million, according to the Istanbul Directorate of Culture and Tourism.

This figure exceeds the 6.75 million tourists who visited during the same period in 2022 and even surpasses pre-pandemic levels; the Turkish metropolis hosted 6.77 million tourists during the first half of 2019.

June 2023 alone welcomed 1.6 million international tourists, marking an 11% increase from 1.47 million in the same month the previous year. Visitors hailed from an impressive 194 countries, with the highest number of tourists arriving from Russia (10.57%), followed by Germany (7.13%), and the United States (6.32%).

The majority of visitors, about 70%, arrived via Istanbul Airport, while 27.31% used Sabiha Gökçen Airport. Istanbul's ports, including Haydarpaşa, Pendik, Tuzla, Zeytinburnu, Ambarlı, and Karaköy, saw an increase in the number of foreign tourists as well, with 42,825 visitors, an 83.70% surge compared to June 2022.

The hospitality sector in Istanbul comprises 788 facilities with a "Tourism Operation Certificate", offering a total of 143,612 beds. With the completion of ongoing investments, an additional 102 facilities and 19,534 beds will be added to Istanbul's accommodation capacity.

The number of tourists visiting "Tourism Operation Certificate" facilities was 1,147,390 in May 2023, with a total overnight stay of 2,557,983. The average duration of stay was 2.23 days, and the occupancy rate was 54.68%. In 2022, the total number of arrivals at these certified accommodation facilities was 12,549,074, with a total overnight stay of 29,629,533, an average duration of stay of 2.36 days, and an annual occupancy rate of 62.59%.

The surge in tourist numbers bodes well for the recovery of Istanbul's tourism sector, and the city continues to solidify its reputation as an attractive destination for international travellers.

To read this content please select one of the options below:

Please note you do not have access to teaching notes, culture, tourism and regeneration process in istanbul.

International Journal of Culture, Tourism and Hospitality Research

ISSN : 1750-6182

Article publication date: 10 August 2010

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the relationship between culture and tourism, and the urban re‐development process in Istanbul.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper focuses on the case of Istanbul and reviews the city's goal of being a financial, tourism, culture and innovation center.

The paper first points to the facts and main attractions of tourism as being tangible and intangible, and to the effects of national and local policies on cultural tourism development. In the second part, the review focuses on existing and ongoing projects in order to discuss their strengths and weaknesses, and the role of culture and tourism. Moreover, the paper presents a discussion of the conflicts based on main concepts such as consumption‐led, production‐led, economic development or quality of life goals, inclusive or exclusive processes, uniqueness or serial reproduction.

Originality/value

The findings of the paper contribute to the literature by considering regeneration along with culture and tourism.

  • Urban areas
  • Regeneration
  • Economic development

Gezici, F. and Kerimoglu, E. (2010), "Culture, tourism and regeneration process in Istanbul", International Journal of Culture, Tourism and Hospitality Research , Vol. 4 No. 3, pp. 252-265. https://doi.org/10.1108/17506181011067637

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2010, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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  • Performing Arts

Culture and Tourism Ministry grants cinema industry nearly $138K

By daily sabah with agencies.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism provides almost $138,000 in funding for films, with a large proportion going to female directors. (Shutterstock Photo)

The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism announced its support for 65 projects of nearly $138,000 (TL 1.98 million) consisting of script and dialogue writing for short and animated film productions.

The monetary assistance is intended to boost the development of Turkish cinema and encourage young people to step into the sector through original productions.

The projects to be supported have been evaluated by an eight-person committee that includes representatives from the cinema sector and the ministry. As the result of the committee's evaluation, the biggest slice in the pie goes to short film productions.

According to the statement made by the ministry, the increase in the number of female screenwriters and directors who received support has been remarkable. While the rate of women who received support in scenarios was 50% and 30% in the short film genre, all those who received funding in the animation genre consisted of female directors.

The ministry also announced that as movie grants will continue to be awarded in the coming months, the applications of feature films will be evaluated in March, while the documentary genre will be assessed in May.

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  • Leading European city tourism destinations 2019-2022, by number of bed nights
  • Number of international tourist arrivals in Turkey 2000-2022
  • Total tourism income in Turkey 2001-2022

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

  • Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Turkey 2019-2023

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Statistics on " Travel and tourism in Turkey "

  • Share of the GDP of the tourism sector in Turkey 2013-2028
  • Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Turkey 2019-2022, by type
  • Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Turkey 2019-2022, by tourist type
  • Tourism income in Turkey 2019-2022, by type of expenditure
  • Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Turkey 2019-2023
  • Number of employees in tourism industries in Turkey 2015-2021, by service
  • Inbound visitor arrivals in Turkey 2008-2022
  • Inbound day visitor arrivals in Turkey 2008-2022
  • Number of foreign tourist arrivals in Turkey monthly 2020-2023
  • Number of international visitors in Turkey 2022, by purpose of visit
  • Leading inbound travel markets in Turkey 2019-2022
  • Inbound tourist expenditure in Turkey Q1 2017-Q4 2021
  • Average tourist expenditure per capita of inbound visitors in Turkey 2003-2022
  • Number of domestic trips in Turkey 2009-2022
  • Domestic overnight stays in Turkey 2009-2022
  • Average number of domestic overnight stays in Turkey 2022, by age group
  • Domestic tourism spending in Turkey 2019-2022, by type
  • Domestic tourism expenditure on leisure and vacation trips in Turkey 2009-2022
  • Number of residents traveling abroad from Turkey 2006-2023
  • Leading outbound destinations visited by residents of Turkey 2019-2023
  • Overnight stays of Turkish citizens traveling abroad 2019-2022, by accommodation type
  • Outbound tourism expenditure from Turkey 2003-2022
  • Outbound tourist expenditure from Turkey Q1 2017-Q4 2022
  • Average tourist expenditure per capita of outbound travelers from Turkey 2003-2022
  • Number of arrivals to tourist accommodations in Turkey 2013-2022
  • Number of arrivals to tourist accommodations in Turkey 2022, by type of establishment
  • Inbound overnight hotel stays in Turkey 2014-2022
  • Number of hotel rooms in Turkey 2010-2021
  • Number of hotel bed-places in Turkey 2010-2021
  • Occupancy rate of star-rated hotels in Turkey 2022, by rating
  • Most affordable cities for backpacking in Europe 2024
  • Most competitive European cities for business events 2021
  • Most visited destinations by international tourists in Turkey 2019-2022
  • Number of foreign tourist arrivals to Istanbul 2020-2023
  • Overnight accommodation costs in Istanbul 2019-2023, by month
  • Most visited museums in Istanbul 2022
  • Attitudes towards traveling in Turkey 2023
  • Travel frequency for private purposes in Turkey 2023
  • Travel frequency for business purposes in Turkey 2023
  • Travel product bookings in Turkey 2023

Other statistics that may interest you Travel and tourism in Turkey

  • Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Turkey 2019-2023
  • Premium Statistic Share of the GDP of the tourism sector in Turkey 2013-2028
  • Basic Statistic Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Turkey 2019-2022, by type
  • Basic Statistic Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Turkey 2019-2022, by tourist type
  • Premium Statistic Total tourism income in Turkey 2001-2022
  • Premium Statistic Tourism income in Turkey 2019-2022, by type of expenditure
  • Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Turkey 2019-2023
  • Premium Statistic Number of employees in tourism industries in Turkey 2015-2021, by service

Inbound tourism

  • Premium Statistic Inbound visitor arrivals in Turkey 2008-2022
  • Premium Statistic Number of international tourist arrivals in Turkey 2000-2022
  • Premium Statistic Inbound day visitor arrivals in Turkey 2008-2022
  • Premium Statistic Number of foreign tourist arrivals in Turkey monthly 2020-2023
  • Premium Statistic Number of international visitors in Turkey 2022, by purpose of visit
  • Premium Statistic Leading inbound travel markets in Turkey 2019-2022
  • Premium Statistic Inbound tourist expenditure in Turkey Q1 2017-Q4 2021
  • Premium Statistic Average tourist expenditure per capita of inbound visitors in Turkey 2003-2022

Domestic tourism

  • Premium Statistic Number of domestic trips in Turkey 2009-2022
  • Premium Statistic Domestic overnight stays in Turkey 2009-2022
  • Premium Statistic Average number of domestic overnight stays in Turkey 2022, by age group
  • Premium Statistic Domestic tourism spending in Turkey 2019-2022, by type
  • Premium Statistic Domestic tourism expenditure on leisure and vacation trips in Turkey 2009-2022

Outbound tourism

  • Premium Statistic Number of residents traveling abroad from Turkey 2006-2023
  • Premium Statistic Leading outbound destinations visited by residents of Turkey 2019-2023
  • Premium Statistic Overnight stays of Turkish citizens traveling abroad 2019-2022, by accommodation type
  • Premium Statistic Outbound tourism expenditure from Turkey 2003-2022
  • Premium Statistic Outbound tourist expenditure from Turkey Q1 2017-Q4 2022
  • Premium Statistic Average tourist expenditure per capita of outbound travelers from Turkey 2003-2022

Accommodation

  • Premium Statistic Number of arrivals to tourist accommodations in Turkey 2013-2022
  • Premium Statistic Number of arrivals to tourist accommodations in Turkey 2022, by type of establishment
  • Premium Statistic Inbound overnight hotel stays in Turkey 2014-2022
  • Premium Statistic Number of hotel rooms in Turkey 2010-2021
  • Premium Statistic Number of hotel bed-places in Turkey 2010-2021
  • Premium Statistic Occupancy rate of star-rated hotels in Turkey 2022, by rating

Tourism in Istanbul

  • Basic Statistic Leading European city tourism destinations 2019-2022, by number of bed nights
  • Basic Statistic Most affordable cities for backpacking in Europe 2024
  • Premium Statistic Most competitive European cities for business events 2021
  • Premium Statistic Most visited destinations by international tourists in Turkey 2019-2022
  • Premium Statistic Number of foreign tourist arrivals to Istanbul 2014-2022
  • Premium Statistic Number of foreign tourist arrivals to Istanbul 2020-2023
  • Premium Statistic Overnight accommodation costs in Istanbul 2019-2023, by month
  • Premium Statistic Most visited museums in Istanbul 2022

Public opinion

  • Premium Statistic Attitudes towards traveling in Turkey 2023
  • Premium Statistic Travel frequency for private purposes in Turkey 2023
  • Premium Statistic Travel frequency for business purposes in Turkey 2023
  • Premium Statistic Travel product bookings in Turkey 2023

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COMMENTS

  1. İstanbul Kültür ve Turizm Müdürlüğü

    Fatih (Unkapanı) - Istanbul Drapers Bazaar. Merter - Textile. Şile- Şile Cloth. Şişli (Nişantaşı) - Clothing. Zeytinburnu - Leather. Ortaköy Mosque (Büyük Mecidiye Mosque) is the most important symbol of this neighbourhood. The counters that are set up on the streets are full of colorful, unique handmade giftware which are ...

  2. Hagia Sophia

    Some 350,000 people participated in traditional Friday prayers at İstanbul's historic Hagia Sophia Mosque. Administrative duties for the mosque split between Türkiye's Religious Affairs Directorate, or Diyanet, and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

  3. Site

    A travel experience integrated with art. In Istanbul, history is full of art, art is full of streets, and streets are full of new discoveries. Come and be a part of thousands of years of culture and art; Let Istanbul surround your soul with art. Be Part.

  4. İstanbul

    In addition to preserving cultural heritage, the Go İstanbul platform also promotes a tourism strategy that appeals to all five senses: sight, taste, smell, touch, and hearing. The city's cultural policy is overseen by the İstanbul Directorate of Culture and Tourism, which operates under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and plays several ...

  5. İstanbul Museums Official Website

    Those cultures, nations, traditions and religions are the texture of İstanbul which constituted by history of mankind. You can visit below state museums with İstanbul pass which offered by city culture and tourism department. İstanbul's museums pose a glimpse into the rich culture of the ancient city and gives you a heart-warming welcome.

  6. Historic Areas of Istanbul

    The national government has allocated a large amount of funding for restoration and conservation projects within the site as part of the European Capital of Culture campaign, in addition to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's, the Istanbul Special Provincial Administration's, General Directorate of Pious Foundation's and the local ...

  7. Ministry of Culture and Tourism (Turkey)

    The Ministry of Culture and Tourism (Turkish: Kültür ve Turizm Bakanlığı) is a government ministry of the Republic of Turkey, responsible for culture and tourism affairs in Turkey.Revolving fund management of the ministry is carried by DÖSİMM. On January 25, 2013, Ömer Çelik was appointed as minister following a cabinet change succeeding Ertuğrul Günay, who was in office since 2008.

  8. May 15-17 2024

    Heritage Istanbul, that will be organized for the 8th time on 15 - 17 May 2024 is the pioneering conservation, restoration, archeology, museum, librarianship fair and conference. Heritage İstanbul aims to raise awareness for the cultural heritage in Türkiye, being committed to the development of the state-of-the-art products, services and ...

  9. Culture of Istanbul

    The culture of Istanbul ( Turkish: İstanbul Kültürü) has its basis in the city that has been the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. However, when the Turkish Republic turned its focus away from Istanbul and toward Ankara, the city's cultural scene throughout the mid-20th century lay relatively stagnant, seeing limited success on ...

  10. Pratical Info

    Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism's Tourism Information Offices help all visitors to reach all kinds of information and documents they need. For more please call +90 212 518 10 21 Istanbul Tourism Police +90 212 527 45 03 WhatsApp: +90 505 187 6614 Instagram: istanbultourismpolice.

  11. Historic Areas of Istanbul

    An Istanbul Cultural Heritage Council was created to revise conservation and management policies, set a visionary framework and expand participation; ... and the Directorate General of Religious Affairs aiming at ... responsibility through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and Article 2 of the Organisational Law of the Ministry entrusts it ...

  12. Historic Areas Of Istanbul (Turkey): Conservation And Tourism Under

    Oktay Özel - Head of the Cultural Heritage Directory, Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Özcan Biçer Director - Istanbul Tourism Platform Zeynep Enlil - Prof.Dr. Yildiz Technical University, EUROPA NOSTRA Turkey. Video Presentation: Istanbul Land Walls; Presented by Merve Gedik Ala - IMM Directorate of Cultural Heritage (with English ...

  13. Istanbul: number of foreign tourist arrivals 2023

    Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism. (December 8, 2023). Number of foreign tourist arrivals in Istanbul from January 2020 to September 2023 (in 1,000s) [Graph].

  14. Great Palace Mosaic Museum

    The Great Palace Mosaic Museum in Istanbul. The Great Palace Mosaic Museum ( Turkish: Büyük Saray Mozaikleri Müzesi ), is located close to Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, Turkey, at Arasta Bazaar. The museum houses mosaics from the Byzantine period, unearthed at the site of the Great Palace of Constantinople .

  15. Over 2.7 million tourists visit Istanbul

    More than 2.7 million foreign tourists visited Istanbul in the first six months of 2021, the provincial directorate of culture and tourism has said. Haberin Devamı. In June alone, the number of foreign arrivals amounted to 685,000 people and this was the highest figure in the past 16 months. From January to June, nearly 682,000 visitors ...

  16. Culture, tourism and regeneration process in Istanbul

    Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the relationship between culture and tourism, and the urban re-development process in Istanbul. Design/methodology/approach - The paper ...

  17. TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES

    TAKSIM TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICE. Address: AKM Yani, Devlet Opera ve Balesi Mudurlugu Girisi Kati Taksim / ISTANBUL. Working Days/Hours: Every day of the week, 10.00 - 17.00. Phone: +90 212 233 05 92. 04. Address: Dis Hatlar Gelis Kurtkoy / ISTANBUL. Working Days/Hours: Every day of the week, 09.00 - 18.00. Phone: +90 216 588 87 64.

  18. Most visited museums in Istanbul 2022

    Published by Zeynep Dierks , Jun 29, 2023. In 2022, Galata Tower Museum was the most visited museum in Istanbul among the museums affiliated with the Directorate Of Culture And Tourism in Turkey ...

  19. Istanbul Tourism Surges by 17%, Surpassing Pre-Pandemic Levels…

    Istanbul Tourism Surges by 17%, Surpassing Pre-Pandemic Levels… In the first six months of 2023, Istanbul saw a significant 17% rise in the number of foreign tourists, reaching a remarkable total of 7.9 million, according to the Istanbul Directorate of Culture and Tourism.

  20. Culture, tourism and regeneration process in Istanbul

    Culture, tourism and regeneration process in Istanbul - Author: Ferhan Gezici, Ebru Kerimoglu ... Urban and Regional Planning Department, Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey) International Journal of Culture, Tourism and Hospitality Research. ISSN: 1750-6182. Article publication date: 10 August 2010. Downloads. 4752 ...

  21. Culture and Tourism Ministry grants cinema industry nearly $138K

    The Ministry of Culture and Tourism provides almost $138,000 in funding for films, with a large proportion going to female directors. (Shutterstock Photo) The Turkish Ministry of Culture ...

  22. 'Get Ready, Get Set Book!' the Department of Sport and Recreation

    "As the season turns towards spring and summer, the Department of Sport and Recreation is excited to launch the 2024 Booking Season on April 1 and provide the community with the opportunity to engage in a variety of recreational activities, said the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport, Senator Owen Darrell, JP.

  23. Istanbul: number of foreign tourist arrivals 2022

    Istanbul Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism. (February 21, 2023). Annual number of foreign tourist arrivals in Istanbul from 2014 to 2022 (in 1,000s) [Graph].

  24. Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Congratulates Devonshire Colts

    27 March, 2024. "Congratulations to Devonshire Colts who had an impressive season, not losing any of their games, and winning the First Divison Trophy." said the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Senator Owen Darrell, JP. "As one of the two National Sports in Bermuda, Football is deeply ingrained in our culture. The beautiful game ...