Tour overview

Istanbul is a transcontinental city located in northwestern Türkiye, uniquely positioned across both Europe and Asia, divided by the Bosphorus Strait. The city lies near sea level along its coastal zones, with elevations gradually rising inland into rolling hills. Istanbul borders the Black Sea to the north and the Sea of Marmara to the south, with neighbouring provinces including Kocaeli to the east and Tekirdağ to the west. The metropolitan area covers around 5,343 sq km (2,063 sq mi), making it one of the most populous and expansive urban regions in the country.

Istanbul lies within a temperate climate zone with a mix of Mediterranean and oceanic influences. The city’s landscape is defined by waterways, historic hills, and diverse neighbourhoods spanning two continents. The Bosphorus Strait runs through the heart of Istanbul, connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and shaping the city’s geography and culture. Coastal areas feature lush vegetation and waterfront promenades, while inland districts rise into hills crowned with mosques, palaces, and residential areas. The soil composition varies from alluvial deposits along the shores to clay and limestone in elevated regions. The surrounding landscapes transition into forested areas in the north, while the south and west are more urbanized and densely developed.