We’ve gathered 12 fun facts about Istanbul, a fascinating city where East meets West, street cats are loved like pets and snow covers its Mediterranean coast in winter.
I’m so curious about Istanbul that I might honeymoon in the city. It’s not only my friends’ stories, but also the chance to experience European and Asian culture colliding.
I grew up in the countryside of Germany; now I live in South Korea. I’ve always been between two continents and cultures. Istanbul feels like a great place to experience the beauty of both worlds in one.
Here are some interesting facts about Istanbul that will make you want to visit!
12 Fun Facts About Istanbul
- In Istanbul, you stand on two continents: Asia and Europe
- Istanbul is not Turkey’s capital but was the capital of many empires
- Istanbul is built on seven hills (like Rome)
- Istanbul’s Tünel is the second oldest underground metro in the world, but it only has two stops
- This train journey from Istanbul to Paris was once famous for its luxury and mystery
- The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world
- Istanbul is a beach city
- Istanbul is the snowiest city in the Mediterranean Basin
- Hagia Sophia was transformed from a cathedral into a mosque
- The Galata Tower promises everlasting love to those who climb with a loved one
- Istanbul is the city of cats
- Istanbul is a famous movie set location
1. In Istanbul, you stand on two continents: Asia and Europe

Experience the meeting point of Asia and Europe when you visit Istanbul.
Istanbul’s geographic location lets visitors step between two continents in just one city. The Bosphorus Strait, which flows through Istanbul, separates parts of Asian Turkey and European Turkey while connecting the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea.
European Istanbul, located west of the strait, is known for its historical landmarks, while Asian Istanbul, to the east, is more residential with local markets and parks.
Enjoy both while visiting Istanbul:
- Cross continents by ferry: A ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait takes passengers between Europe and Asia in under 30 minutes.
- Explore two historic markets: Visit the Grand Bazaar in Europe for traditional Turkish good like ceramics and lamps, then head to Kadıköy Market in Asia for local sweets and traditional Turkish coffee.
- Try two culinary styles: Start with a European-style breakfast in Karaköy, then savor a mix of Turkish and Asian flavors for lunch in Moda.
While Istanbul is well-known for spanning two continents, it’s not the only city in the world to do so. Other transcontinental cities include Atyrau in Kazakhstan, El Qantara and Suez in Egypt and Magnitogorsk in Russia.