General Information

Welcome to Istanbul – Where Continents, Cultures and Science Meet

Hosting the APAPU 2026 Annual Congress, Istanbul stands as one of the world's most extraordinary cities—an inspiring crossroads of civilizations where Europe and Asia converge. Divided by the magnificent Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul is the only metropolis in the world that spans two continents, offering a rare blend of Eastern heritage and Western dynamism.

For centuries, the city served as the capital of great empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. This remarkable historical legacy is reflected in its architectural masterpieces, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural richness that continues to fascinate millions of visitors each year.

Today, Istanbul is a thriving global hub where history, science, gastronomy, and innovation coexist in perfect harmony—making it an exceptional destination for international scientific congresses.

Maiden's Tower (Kız Kulesi) at sunset, Istanbul
Bosphorus Bridge at night, Istanbul
Ortaköy Mosque and Bosphorus Bridge, Istanbul

Culture, Heritage and Inspiration

Visitors to Istanbul can experience some of the world's most remarkable cultural treasures:

The legendary Hagia Sophia
The majestic Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
  • The legendary Hagia Sophia
  • The majestic Blue Mosque
  • The imperial Topkapı Palace
  • The bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world

The city's skyline—adorned with domes, minarets, and modern architecture—creates a unique visual identity that reflects thousands of years of history.

Beyond its monuments, Istanbul is also renowned for its vibrant gastronomy, lively streets, art galleries, museums, and warm hospitality.

The imperial Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace grounds
The Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

Istanbul in September

September is one of the most pleasant months to visit Istanbul. With mild temperatures, clear skies, and a lively cultural calendar, the city offers ideal conditions for exploring its historical sites and enjoying its vibrant atmosphere.

Pleasant Weather

Average temperatures between 20–28 °C with plenty of sunshine and low humidity.

Outdoor Exploration

Perfect conditions for Bosphorus cruises, walking tours, and visiting open-air historical sites.

Cultural Calendar

Istanbul's vibrant arts scene peaks in September with festivals, exhibitions, and concerts.

Participants of APAPU 2026 will experience Istanbul at a time when the city's cultural life is at its peak, offering a perfect balance between scientific exchange and memorable travel experiences.

Congress Venue

Novotel Zeytinburnu Istanbul — Exterior
Novotel Zeytinburnu Istanbul — View
Novotel Zeytinburnu Istanbul — Interior

Novotel Zeytinburnu Istanbul

The APAPU-2026 Congress will be hosted at Novotel Zeytinburnu Istanbul, a modern seaside hotel located along the coast of the Sea of Marmara.

The hotel offers contemporary meeting facilities, comfortable accommodation, and convenient access to Istanbul's historic peninsula, making it an ideal venue for international delegates.

All scientific sessions and congress activities will take place at Novotel Zeytinburnu Istanbul.

Live Surgery Course

Koç University Hospital

As part of the pre-congress program, a live-surgery course will be organized the day before the congress. The surgical procedures will be performed at Koç University Hospital, one of Turkey's leading academic medical centers known for its advanced surgical infrastructure and international medical standards.

The surgeries will be broadcast live to the congress venue at Novotel Zeytinburnu Istanbul, allowing participants to follow the procedures in real time and interact with the surgical team.

Koç University Hospital — Exterior
Koç University Hospital — Building

Distance Between the Venues

Koç University Hospital is located approximately 10 km from Novotel Zeytinburnu Istanbul. The transportation typically takes around 15–20 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.

This short distance ensures seamless coordination between the surgical center and the congress venue during the live broadcast sessions.

~10 km

Distance

15–20 min

Duration

Car

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