Turkey—and especially Istanbul—has been in the headlines lately, and not always for the best reasons. But I love Istanbul.
After a brief summer visit, I knew one week wasn’t enough. I fell in love with the city and found myself back just a couple of months later, spending nearly three weeks soaking up every corner of this vibrant, chaotic, and utterly beautiful metropolis.
Here are 17 reasons why I fell head over heels for Istanbul—and why I think you might too.
Table of Contents
1. A Fascinating Mix of Cultures
Istanbul’s unique location between Europe and Asia, combined with its rich, layered history and diverse population, makes it a true melting pot of cultures. It’s where ancient meets modern, East meets West.
2. Endless Sights to Explore
From the iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to the Galata Tower, offering 360-degree views of the city, Istanbul is packed with must-see landmarks. Don’t miss the Basilica Cistern, an atmospheric underground sight.
3. The Location is Unique
Istanbul literally spans two continents, separated by the Bosphorus Strait, which gives the city a dynamic blend of influences. And there are steep hills, winding waterfronts, and panoramic views everywhere you turn.
4. Visit Two Continents in One Day
Hop on a ferry across the Bosphorus, and you can travel from Europe to Asia in under 30 minutes. It’s a scenic, affordable ride and an unforgettable way to see both sides of the city.
5. The Cats of Istanbul
Cats are everywhere in Istanbul—and I mean EVERYWHERE. Look around at any moment on the street, and you’ll probably spot at least five cats nearby. They are lounging in doorways, cafes, or even inside shops. I love cats, so being surrounded by cats all the time is just perfect.
They are technically stray cats, but people still care for them and feed them. Also, many shops and restaurants have their own resident cats.
6. Restaurants and Cafés on Every Corner
The city is filled with cozy cafés, rooftop terraces, and charming street-side eateries. You’re spoiled for choice, and the food is consistently fresh, flavorful, and affordable.
7. Delicious Food and Great Vegan Options
Turkish food is not just kebabs, and it’s actually surprisingly easy to travel there as a vegan. You can get healthy vegan and vegetarian meals everywhere. My personal favorite is a lentil soup; it’s delicious! Also, check out the street food options: grilled corn, chestnuts, simit (sesame bread) and freshly pressed pomegranate juice! And try meat-free Çiğ köfte made of bulgur wheat and spices.
8. The Turkish Bath
When in Turkey, you have to go to the Turkish bath, also known as a hammam. I experienced hammam for the first time in Gedikpasa Hamami. It’s not a luxurious hammam, but more like an everyday hammam for locals. So if you want an authentic experience without a bunch of other tourists, head there. After the scrub, foam and wash, you’ll feel like a new person!
9. Beautiful Sunsets
Istanbul’s sunsets are magical. Watching the sun dip behind the skyline of minarets, with the call to prayer echoing in the distance, is an experience I’ll never forget. One of the best places to catch the sunset is Galata Tower—just be sure to arrive early.
10. Stunning Mosques Everywhere
Beautiful mosques are dotted all over the city and architectural beauty is something else. While Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are the most famous, many smaller mosques offer quiet moments and amazing architecture too.
11. Budget-Friendly
Istanbul is a great destination for budget travelers. You can find dorm beds for as little as €5, and I paid just €20 for a modern, centrally located Airbnb. Food, public transport, and attractions are all reasonably priced.
12. A City Full of History
Did you know Istanbul has been the capital of four empires—Roman, Byzantine, Latin, and Ottoman? You can feel that history everywhere in the city.
13. A Vibrant Nightlife Scene
There are so many bars and restaurants, and always something happening. From rooftop bars with stunning views to laid-back cafés and cocktail spots, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re into lively crowds or quiet corners with great drinks, the city offers endless options to explore after dark.
14. Impressive Architecture
From ancient sites to modern buildings, the city is full of impressive architecture. Whether it’s Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, or sleek modern buildings, you’re constantly surrounded by visual variety and beauty.
15. Turkish Hospitality
Ever heard of Turkish hospitality? Well, it’s real—and you have to travel there to experience it for yourself. Turkish tea is offered as a sign of hospitality, so be prepared to drink plenty of it!
16. A Photographer’s Dream Destination
The city is full of great photo opportunities. Breathtaking views, vibrants streets, beautiful sunsets, colorful markets, water, majestic mosques…
17. Shopping for Every Taste
You can find everything in Istanbul. Try the famous shopping street, Istiklal Street, starting from Taksim Square or head to Cevahir shopping mall in Şişli. It’s one of the largest shopping malls in Europe, and it’s centrally located, just two metro stops away from Taksim.
If you want something more traditional, don’t miss Grand Bazaar—one of the oldest covered markets in the world offering everything from spices and textiles to jewelry.
Istanbul is bold, beautiful, complex, and full of contrasts. Whether you’re in it for the history, the food, the culture, or just to get lost in its streets, this city has a way of stealing your heart. Just like it did mine.
Have you been to Istanbul? What made you fall in love with the city? Let me know in the comments!
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5 comments
Istanbul has really quickly become high on my travel bucket list and it’s a trip that I will hopefully take in the next couple of years. It looks so enticing and there’s so much that I want to do there. I’m definitely saving this for reference later. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Istanbul is amazing! I hope you can make it there 🙂
Istanbul is an amazing city. It has to be on everyone bucket list! One of my favorite things about Istanbul is the food, especially the Turkish delight.
Yes! Istanbul is one of my favorite cities in the world 🙂
Istanbul is the City of Dreams, Galata Tower kist steal my heart, the Bosforo is amazing, it is like if you were in a history book people is so nice and welcoming. See you soon we definitely come back as much as we can…completely in Love🥰🥰🥰🧿🇹🇷