Hosting many civilizations throughout history, Istanbul has become a common meeting point for different cultures. Istanbul is a unique city that has been the capital of three great states throughout history: the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires.
On the other hand, Istanbul is also one of the world's largest metropolises today, with a population approaching 20 million.
The number of tourists visiting this historic city increases every day. Long queues form in front of the historical landmarks that have become symbols of Istanbul.
According to the Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, 10,474,867 foreign tourists visited Istanbul in 2013. Data from 2023 shows that this number has increased.
In 2023, the number of tourists visiting Istanbul was recorded as 17,370,030. The number of tourists visiting the city has increased by 66% in the last 10 years.
This situation has also revitalized the diversity of foreign tourists visiting Istanbul.
In Sultanahmet Square, located in the Historical Peninsula, which is the heart of tourism in the city, it is possible to see tourists from almost every country.
Long queues form in front of historical sites every day in the square, which hosts important structures such as the Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque.
Tourism professionals expect even more visitors in 2024.
