Istanbul held the title of the most visited city in 2023.

With more than 20 million people visited the city, Istanbul became worlds most visited city in 2023.

Istanbul is known as the "City of Mosques", with over 3,000 mosques in the city, Istanbul boasts a rich and diverse Islamic architectural heritage. Some of the most popular mosques are Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), Süleymaniye Mosque etc.

The city connects Asia to Europe, the eastern part of Istanbul is in Asian continent and the western portion of Istanbul is a part of the European continent, this makes the city an important global hub as well. Bosphorus Strait parts the two sides, the natural strait connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. This geographical position makes Istanbul a unique city as well, and it plays a significant role in providing a route for global trade.

Istanbul was given the title of the most visited city in 2023, by the Mastercard's Global Destination Cities Index. According to the report Istanbul received over 20.2 million international visitors.

Data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Türkiye shows tourists arrival in the country soared by 10.4% to 49.2 Million in 2023. The International airport in Türkiye saw 25.4% growth compared with 2022, the minister of Culture and Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, said the goal for 2024 is 60 Million visitors and 60 billion dollars of revenue.

According to a report the 2nd most visited city in 2023 was London with over 19.2 million international visitors, while 3rd position was held by Dubai, and the 4th place was awarded to Türkiye's Antalya.

Istiklal Street, Grand Bazaar, Arasta Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Süleymaniye Mosque, Spice Bazaar, Bosphorus Cruise are some of the most visited and famous in Istanbul.

The city houses over 15 million people, nearly every 1 out of 5th Turk lives in Istanbul.

The city is a modern business hub as well, while a man made canal is also being developed in the city, which is estimated to generate revenue of 8 billion dollars annually.

Simit, Döner Kebab, Kestane Kebap (Chestnut), Balık Ekmek, (fish bread), Lahmacun, Pide, beyti kebab, Şehzade Cağ Kebab, Çorba (Lentil Soup), are some of the most popular street foods to enjoy in Istanbul.

Baklava, Lokma, and Turkish Delight Ice Cream (Dondurma) are popular sweets and light desserts in Istanbul streets.

Istanbul is the top tourist destination in the country, the city is responsible for more than half of the country's trade. Istanbul is also the most populous city in Europe.

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