İstanbul Among Europe’s Top City Escapes as Tourist Arrivals Reach Record High
Oct 27, 2025
ts along the Bosphorus Strait, İstanbul continues to captivate visitors with its blend of history, culture, and modern charm. The city welcomed 13.5 million visitors in the first nine months of 2025 — a testament to its growing global appeal. Recently, consumer group Which? ranked İstanbul among Europe’s top five city break destinations, while Condé Nast Traveller readers named it one of the best family-friendly cities in Europe.
As autumn unfolds, İstanbul offers an ideal escape for travelers seeking cultural exploration and contemporary comfort.
With a history shaped by great empires, the city’s UNESCO-listed Historical Peninsula showcases iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapı Palace — each reflecting centuries of architectural and artistic brilliance. Nearby, the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar immerse visitors in a sensory journey filled with vibrant colors, aromas, and the spirit of old-world trade.
Beyond its ancient heart, the Bosphorus provides one of the most scenic experiences in the world’s only city bridging Asia and Europe. A ferry ride reveals stunning views of palaces, mosques, and waterfront mansions, while districts like Karaköy, Galataport, and İstiklal Street pulse with creativity, music, and café culture. Contemporary art venues including İstanbul Modern, Arter, and the Atatürk Cultural Center further showcase the city’s artistic energy.
This season, İstanbul’s cultural calendar is packed with exciting events and exhibitions — from The Art of James Cameron at the İstanbul Cinema Museum and The Haunted Eye by Steve McCurry, to the İstanbul Biennial, the 29th İstanbul Theatre Festival, and Ars Electronica at Zorlu PSM.
Food lovers can also savor the city’s world-renowned cuisine — from traditional Turkish breakfasts and lively street food to elegant MICHELIN-starred restaurants.
Blending its rich past with a vibrant present, İstanbul continues to stand as a destination that connects cultures, continents, and generations, reaffirming its place among Europe’s most unforgettable city escapes.
