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Istanbul City Areas
Istanbul has 31 districts, which are more easily defined as three main areas: the historic Sultanahmet Peninsula ; the city north of the Golden Horn ; and the Asian (or Anatolian) side.
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Old Istanbul – The Sultanahmet Peninsula
On the southern shore of the Golden Horn , the old city is surrounded by the remains of the ‘Walls of Constantinople'. The Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace and all the other places you must visit are here.
North of the Golden Horn
Although there are some historic districts here, this area is mainly the newer Istanbul and includes the financial centre, Taksim, and the famous Istiklal Avenue ( Istiklal Caddesi ) which contains many shops, cafes, restaurants and nightlife.
The Asian Side
Also known as the Anatolian side of Istanbul . This part is not so frequently visited by tourists and is more residential, though is worth a visit to see the residential architecture, several important Ottoman mosques and a great view back over the Bosphorus of the old city. |
Istanbul Greater Metropolitan Area
Istanbul 's metropolitan area is huge. To the south east and south west it spreads for miles along the Marmara Sea coast . Istanbul 's main international airport ( Istanbul Atatürk International Airport ) is located in the south west about 15 miles (24km) from the city centre.
On the Asian side, a smaller international airport ( Sabiha Gokcen International Airport ) is located 28 miles (45km) from the city centre, close to the new Istanbul Park – home of the Turkish Grand Prix.
Despite Istanbul metropolitan area being so huge, you can still drive north west or north east out of the city and be in the uplands and areas of forests within just a short time. If you continue to head north you'll reach the beautiful Black Sea coast and the small seaside resorts which line it.
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