Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city, a transcontinental metropolis of around 15–16 million people spanning Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus. Founded as Byzantium in the 7th century BC and refounded as Constantinople in AD 330, it was the capital of the Byzantine Empire and later the Ottoman Empire, leaving an unmatched mix of imperial landmarks and everyday street life. The historic core around Sultanahmet packs headline sights such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace, while the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar anchor the classic shopping maze; across the Golden Horn, Galata and İstiklal add nightlife, venues and café streets. Beyond the monuments, Istanbul is defined by the water—ferries, waterfront walks and Bosphorus viewpoints—plus neighbourhood energy in places like Kadıköy on the Asian side. Getting in and around is straightforward via Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), with a fast-growing metro network, trams and frequent ferries linking the main districts.

FESTIVALS

Bosphorus Open Air Metal Fest
Headbangers’ Weekend

PUBS

Dorock Heavy Metal Club
Karga Bar
Wizard Pub
Zincir Bar

STORES

Hammer Müzik
Metal Giyim
Taksim Metal Shop

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