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14 must-do things on your trip to Istanbul

Nov 1, 2021 • 8 min read

Get ready to add even more to your Istanbul itinerary: here are the top things to do in the city © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

We’ve all heard the descriptions of Istanbul being a bridge between Europe and Asia, a place where East meets West and where cultures have coexisted for centuries. But not everyone is aware of its endlessly fascinating contradictions.

Here are the top things to do in Istanbul to experience the city’s different stories and faces.

Marvel at the Aya Sofya

History resonates when you visit the majestic Byzantine basilica of Aya Sofya . Built by order of the Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, its soaring dome, huge nave and glittering gold mosaics contribute to its reputation as one of the world's most beautiful buildings, and its fascinating history as church, mosque and museum make it the city's most revealing time capsule. Looted by marauding Crusaders in the 13th century, stormed by Ottoman invaders during the Conquest in 1453 and visited by millions of tourists after being converted into a museum in 1935, it is one of Turkey's greatest treasures.

Since its reconsecration as a mosque in summer 2020 , the Aya Sofya is closed to non-worshippers during the five daily prayer times, women must cover their heads and all visitors must take off their shoes to enter the inner narthex. Most of the building’s ancient marble floor has been covered by carpets, some of its mosaics are shielded by retractable screens and the upper gallery is inaccessible, but its historic grandeur remains breathtaking.

Experience the extravagance of Topkapı Palace

The secrets of the seraglio will be revealed during your visit to the opulent Ottoman Topkapı Palace complex occupying the promontory of Istanbul's Old City. A series of mad, sad and downright bad sultans lived here with their concubines and courtiers between 1465 and 1830, and extravagant relics of their centuries of folly, intrigue, excess, patronage, diplomacy and war are everywhere you look. Highlights include the huge Harem, impressive Imperial Council Chamber, object-laden Imperial Treasury and picturesque Marble Terrace.

Uncover the secrets of Topkapı Palace

Lose yourself in Istanbul's Bazaar District

The chaotic and colorful Grand Bazaar is the best-known shopping destination on Istanbul's historic peninsula, but it certainly isn't the only one. After exploring its labyrinthine lanes and hidden caravanserais, follow the steady stream of local shoppers heading downhill into the busy shopping precinct of Tahtakale, which has at its hub the seductively scented Spice Bazaar . From there, head back up toward the Blue Mosque and its attached arasta (an arcade-style Ottoman bazaar that typically featured practitioners of a single trade), where you may well find a lasting memento of your trip.

Ride Istanbul’s ferries

Climbing aboard one of the city's famous flotilla of ferries is the quintessential Istanbul experience. The trip between Asia and Europe on a commuter ferry is hard to beat, but the Bosphorus tourist ferries that travel the great strait from Eminönü toward the mouth of the Black Sea are even better, offering passengers views of palaces, parks and ornate timber mansions on both the Asian and European shores. It doesn't matter whether you opt for a long or short cruise: either is sure to be memorable.

Istanbul ferries will now run during the night at weekends

Revel in Istanbul's nightlife

Though Istanbul’s nightlife scene has suffered some setbacks, you can’t keep a good party town down. For a traditional night out, head to one of the Beyoğlu district’s meyhanes, tavern-like restaurants serving meze and fish where sing-alongs of classic songs flow with each new round of rakı, an anise-flavored liquor. Lively crowds of young beer-drinkers fill the pubs of the Beşiktaş Çarşı and central Kadıköy, while a swankier set sips cocktails near the Bosphorus in the bars and cafes of Bebek and Arnavutköy. For the full Istanbul experience, top off the evening by joining your fellow revelers in lining up for some late-night street food.

Get acquainted with Turkish contemporary art

Anchored by high-profile cultural institutions like Istanbul Modern , Pera Museum , SALT Beyoğlu and Yapı Kredi Kültür Sanat , the Beyoğlu district has long been a hub for art-lovers, with galleries and museums scattered on and around İstiklal Caddesi , and increasingly in the adjacent Karaköy, Tophane and Dolapdere neighborhoods as well. Well-established commercial galleries in stately apartment buildings also cluster among the chic boutiques of the Nişantaşı neighborhood, while hip Kadıköy has an up-and-coming independent art scene of its own.

Surrender to the steam in a bath house

In life, there aren't too many opportunities to wander seminaked through a 16th-century Ottoman monument. But Istanbul's world-famous hamams offer just that: the chance to immerse yourself in history, architecture, warm water and soap suds all at the same time. A hamam treatment makes for a relaxing finale to a day spent pounding the city's pavements and gives a fascinating insight into the life and customs of Ottoman society. You can surrender to the steam at baths on both sides of the Galata Bridge: the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı in Tophane and the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı in Sultanahmet are particularly stunning and luxurious.

Istanbul's bathhouses: a step-by-step guide

Hang out with the cool kids in Kadıköy

Riding a ferry across the Bosphorus is one of Istanbul’s great pleasures and the Asian-side neighborhood of Kadıköy is becoming a destination in itself, with hip cafes, bars, restaurants and boutiques frequented by a lively young crowd. Peruse the colorful produce market , hunt for street-art murals in the backstreets, visit the museum-home of Turkish rock giant Barış Manço or stroll the waterfront with an ice cream in hand. The sunset views from the shoreline are among the most spectacular in the city.

Sample the flavors of Istanbul

More than anything else, Istanbullus love to eat, and food is much more than mere fuel. Instead, it’s a celebration of community. Meals unfurl with great ceremony – they are joyful, boisterous and almost inevitably communal. The national cuisine has been refined over centuries and is treated more reverently than any museum collection in the country. That’s not to say it’s fussy, because what differentiates Turkish food from other national noshes is its rustic and honest base. The small meze dishes you’ll eat will be simple, the kebaps austere, the salads unstructured and the seafood unsauced. Flavors will explode in your mouth because ingredients are used in season.

Top 5 Istanbul cooking courses and food tours

Admire the architecture of Süleymaniye Mosque

Commissioned by the Ottoman sultan Süleyman I, known as “the Magnificent,” this 16th-century mosque has a fittingly grand perch atop one of the old city’s seven hills. The view from here is one of the finest in Istanbul, looking out over domes and rooftops to the confluence of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn waterways and beyond. With its elegant symmetry and soaring interior, the mosque itself is considered among the masterpieces of the great architect Mimar Sinan. The complex around it is inviting and serene, with tall trees, a grassy lawn and a rose-studded cemetery.

Go underground at the Basilica Cistern

When the Byzantine emperors decided to build something, they certainly didn't cut corners. The extraordinary subterranean Basilica Cistern , located opposite Aya Sofya, features a wildly atmospheric forest of columns (336 to be exact), vaulted brick ceilings, mysterious carved Medusa-head capitals and ghostly patrols of carp. A testament to the ambitious town planning and engineering expertise of the Byzantines, the cistern has played a starring role in innumerable motion pictures (remember From Russia with Love ?) and is now one of the city's best-loved tourist attractions.

Go tile-mad at the Blue Mosque

Officially named the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, after the early 17th-century Ottoman ruler Ahmed I, the Blue Mosque gets its better-known moniker from the color of the tens of thousands of İznik tiles that adorn its interior. With its enormous courtyard, grand prayer hall and six minarets (an unprecedented number for a mosque when it was constructed) this is a building made to impress – and to rival the Aya Sofya, which sits directly opposite across a landscaped square.

Ogle the opulence of Dolmabahçe Palace

Weighing in at nearly 10,000 pounds, the crystal chandelier hanging over the Ceremonial Hall of Dolmabahçe Palace exemplifies the opulence of this royal residence commissioned in the mid-19th century by Sultan Abdül Mecit I. It’s a glorious mishmash of styles and materials, with ceilings gilded with thousands of pounds of gold, marble floors, crystal bannisters and bearskin rugs. The Bosphorus views are just as dazzling as the decor.

Let your feet be your guide

Istanbul’s marvelous sights could keep a visitor busy for months, but it’s worth taking some time to explore its myriad neighborhoods as well. Though the city is sprawling, its central districts are walkable and reward wandering, with lively street life and distinct identities. Follow the film crews and Instagram influencers through shabby-chic Fener and Balat’s historical lanes ; sip black tea with a Golden Horn view at the Pierre Loti Café , perched above the leafy cemeteries and holy tomb complexes or Eyüp; or watch fishermen cast their lines from the Bosphorus village of Arnavutköy.

You might also like: A hotel in Istanbul has the world's first baklava butler The best shops you can only find in Istanbul Local's guide to Istanbul

This article was first published February 2011 and updated November 2021

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Wander-Lush

42 Things to Know Before You Visit Istanbul: Helpful Istanbul Travel Tips

Istanbul is a magnificent beast.

Thirty-nine districts, 15 million people, and 1700-plus years of history – it’s still difficult for me to wrap my head around a city of this scale.

I never know where to begin with Istanbul. And yet every time I arrive, I somehow feel instantly at ease. Turkey’s biggest metropolis has a way of encircling you, sweeping you up and taking you along for the ride. For me, it’s one of those places where it’s best to relinquish expectations and anxieties and just go with the flow.

That’s easier said than done, and there are countless tidbits I wish I had known before I visited Istanbul for the first time back in 2019. On my recent re-visit, there were many more things I noticed for the first time.

I struggled to whittle this list down to a digestible size – not because travelling in Istanbul is particularly complicated or difficult, but because when you’re dealing with a city of such incredible breadth and depth, there’s just so much to talk about.

Here are 42 Istanbul tips that I think every traveller will benefit from , including cultural quirks, itinerary planning tips, logistics hints, and common faux pas.

• Also read: The perfect itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Istanbul quick links

• Istanbul airport transfer: Private transfer from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen (from $27)
• Where to stay in Istanbul: Hostel Le Banc (budget); 38 Hotel (mid-range); Hotel Empress Zoe (boutique); Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (luxury)
• Istanbul Official E-Pass: Pre-purchase online here
• Skip the line: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour (from $40)
• Best Istanbul food tour: Taste of 2 Continents (from $100)
• Top-rated Istanbul city tour: Best of Istanbul in 1 Day (from $60)
• Turkey car hire: Find a low-cost rental on Local Rent (from 28€/day)

Essential Istanbul travel tips

Starting with the basics, here are answers to some of the burning questions I had before my first visit to Turkey (Türkiye) and Istanbul.

1. Avoid visiting in summer

Never underestimate Istanbul’s magnetism. The city pulled in more than 14 million tourists in 2019 (including me), and on my most recent trip in 2022, it felt just as crowded as it had been three years earlier.

I’m willing to bet that most people visit Istanbul during the summer months – June, July and August. This feels a bit hypocritical because I myself have visited Istanbul twice during summer – but because I did, I know what peak season is like.

Istanbul’s climate is quite mild relative to other cities in the region. Temperatures might not go too far beyond 30 degrees Celsius in the shade, but the sun is scorching hot, and it’s very dry.

Aside from the oppressive heat, there are the summer swarms to contend with. (You haven’t really experienced a queue until you’ve stood in line for the Hagia Sophia on an August afternoon.) There are crushing crowds at every landmark during summer, and that gets old pretty quickly. On top of that, accommodation prices are noticeably higher and it can be challenging to get a reservation.

The best time to visit Istanbul is during shoulder season, spring (April to early June) or autumn (mid-September to the start of November). For something different, consider visiting Turkey in winter , when snow covers Istanbul and the city’s charm-o-metre is off the charts.

Take note of the dates for the Holy Month of Ramadan (usually around March-April-May, but it changes every year), which influences the way the city operates.

2. You need at least three days to do Istanbul justice

However many days you give yourself in Istanbul, it will never be enough. You will always feel like you short-changed yourself – there’s always one more neighbourhood to explore, one more ferry trip to take, one more museum to visit, one more restaurant to try…

Three days is the bare minimum for a first-time visitor, but you could easily stay for a week or more.

I recently spent 10 days in Istanbul and found it was a good amount of time to see the city at a relaxed pace. I stayed in the centre for that entire time, though I did have a few ‘down’ days to work. There are dozens of day trip opportunities to break things up if the city gets to be too much.

One of the highlights of Istanbul is the food, so you’d do well to measure the duration of your stay in meals eaten rather than nights slept! Six square meals (and a couple of ‘spread breakfasts’) is ideal for indulging in the best of Istanbul’s food scene .

Plan your time with my 4-day Istanbul itinerary , which covers the must-sees and a few local gems.

3. Save time (and maybe money) by applying for an e-visa

Most nationalities require a tourist visa to enter Türkiye. The country’s e-visa scheme, which launched in 2013, is available to citizens of 40+ countries, including the States, Australia and Canada. (EU citizens do not need a visa.) A standard multiple-entry visa is valid for a stay of up to 90 days with 180 days validity from the date of issue.

Visa on arrival (VOA) is also available, but if you’re flying in, it requires queueing at the airport – and because of the high volume of flights arriving at IST particularly, it can be a long wait. For some nationalities, it’s also more expensive – 10 USD dearer on average compared to the e-visa according to the official fees (though for US passport holders, VOA is cheaper).

Applying for a Turkish e-visa requires completing a simple online form. The website has English-language support and international card payment, but be warned that sometimes it’s a bit glitchy. Both times I’ve applied, my visa has landed in my inbox almost instantly (within the hour). Be sure to print off the A4 piece of paper to show at immigration.

There are copycat sites out there – the official e-visa portal is located here .

I have never been asked for proof of onward travel or a hotel reservation when entering Turkey. If you want one or both for peace of mind without making an actual booking, then I suggest using OneWayFly .

4. Travel insurance is a must

Travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Turkey. Again, you might not be asked to show proof of insurance if you’re travelling on an e-visa (I haven’t), but rules are rules nonetheless.

Istanbul is generally regarded as a safe city, but pickpocketing and crime do occur. More importantly, local health care can be expensive, so it pays to be covered in case of accident or unexpected illness.

For single-policy or annual trip insurance, I recommend HeyMondo. Get 5% off your policy when you sign up using this link .

Read up on these Istanbul safety tips before you go.

5. Use the Havabus (Havaist) shuttle to travel to/from the airport

Update: Since publishing this guide, both Istanbul airports now have an underground metro service. I would definitely look into this option – avoiding traffic could be a real time-saver. Here are more details .

Havabus is a terrific service for travelling between Istanbul’s airports (yes, there is more than one – see the next point) and the downtown area. Shuttles operate 24/7, with departures in both directions every 30-60 minutes.

Tip: At Sabiha Gokcen airport, the shuttle is called Havabus and at Istanbul Airport, it’s called Havaist. I have used both – they operate in much the same way, but they have separate websites for checking the schedule ( here for Havabus and here for Havaist).

When you land in Istanbul, look for the airport bus signage. At Sabiha Gokcen, the bus stand is located on the other side of the car park directly in front of the arrivals terminal. Tickets are purchased using cash on the bus and cost 37.50 TRY (around 2 USD) per person to go to Taksim.

If you prefer a private transfer, airport cars are very well priced (from $27 to/from either airport). Pre-book a door-to-door airport transfer online here .

Eventually the Istanbul metro will extend to IST Airport, but the line has not been completed yet.

6. There are multiple airports in Istanbul – don’t front up at the wrong one!

Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s largest and busiest international airport. Located on the European side in Arnavutkoy, 40km / 45 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square, it is sometimes referred to as ‘Istanbul Grand Airport’ or IGA. If you’re flying with Turkish Airlines or from Europe, there’s a high chance you will be landing at IST.

A second airport, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), receives flights from the Middle East (Emirates, Qatar ) as well as Turkey’s own Pegasus Airlines. It is located on the Asian side, 40km / 60 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square.

A third airport, Ataturk Airport, closed in 2019.

The two airports are 80km apart and it takes at least 75-90 minutes to travel between them. There are shuttle buses, but if you show up at the wrong one for your flight, there’s a good chance you’ll be left high and dry. Triple-check your reservation and make sure you show up at the correct airport.

We got caught out with this on our first trip and rolled up at the wrong airport for our flight back to Australia. Luckily we had come a day early with the intention of staying the night at the airport hotel, so we still made our flight.

You can use Havabus/Havaist to get back to the airport from the city, too. Buses depart from Taksim Square. Take the metro to Taksim and follow the exit towards Taksim Gezi Park. From there, the station is a short walk (you will see the coaches waiting and two ticket booths on the footpath).

Buses to both airports depart from the same area, so again, triple-check you’re hopping on the right one!

7. Pre-book your accommodation

Hotel platform Booking.com doesn’t work in Turkey, so if this is your preferred way to find accommodation, you’ll need to do your browsing and booking before you arrive. (This can be overcome by using a VPN of course.)

Pre-booking is essential for peak-period travel as properties do fill up and prices can skyrocket for last-minute reservations.

I normally use Airbnb in Istanbul for the simple reason that I prefer to stay in local neighbourhoods. Sisli is my district of choice: It has great access to public transport, fantastic local restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe.

8. Card is widely accepted, but it helps to carry cash

Ninety-nine percent of venues and shops in Istanbul accept credit/debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, as well as contactless pay. For small markets and convenience stores, local restaurants, bars and taxis – and when dipping into the wonderful world of Istanbul street food – you’ll need cash.

Many smaller shops in Turkey have a primary limit set on card purchases, meaning you need to meet a certain threshold if you want to pay with a card. In these instances, cash is necessary. Small bills also come in handy for tipping (more on that later).

I suggest withdrawing cash when you first arrive and reserving it for smaller purchases and tips. Check out my Istanbul Travel Budget to learn more about budgeting for your trip and the cost of common items and services.

9. Most ATMs in Turkey charge a fee

ATMs are ubiquitous in Istanbul and most of the time, you’ll see half a dozen different cash machines clustered together. Majority charge a withdrawal fee – up to 5% for some banks – and have a transaction limit of between 3000-5000 TRY.

The only no-fee ATM we could find was Ziraat Bank. It’s red with a distinctive wheatear logo. We also used HalkBank, which did not charge us a withdrawal fee, but did hit us with a 13 TRY fee on Wise.

Banks change their fee structure regularly, so you might need to experiment with a few different machines. If the bank does charge a fee – either a flat fee or a percentage – this should always be displayed on the screen before you finalise the transaction.

On our first trip to Turkey, we had issues with our Australian bank cards not being accepted. This time around, I used my Wise card without any issues. I found the best method for withdrawing cash was to exchange stored currency to Turkish lira within the Wise app, then withdraw lira from the ATM.

Wise is great for international travel and offers very competitive exchange rates – if you don’t yet have an account, you can sign up here .

10. Buying a SIM card in Istanbul is easy, but your options are limited

Open WIFI is not readily accessible in Istanbul, which makes buying a local SIM card more or less a necessity.

If you’re not a Turkish citizen and you don’t hold a residency permit, you’ll find you have limited options when it comes to buying a SIM. Low-cost packages are not available to foreigners and most telcos only offer one standard tourist package.

After doing a bit of research, we settled on a Vodafone SIM. Vodafone only has one option for tourists, which includes 20GB of data, calls and texts, and unlimited access to Whatsapp. We paid 350 TRY (around 19 USD).

The process of buying a SIM is very straightforward and only took us about 15 minutes. You need a hard copy of your passport for registration, so make sure you’re carrying it with you. The tourist SIM automatically expires after 60 days.

11. The public transport system is phenomenal

If you’re considering hiring a car in Turkey to continue your travels beyond the city, make sure you pick it up on the outskirts of the city (possible when using a company such as Local Rent ). The traffic is maniacal and I would not recommend driving in the city centre.

There’s no reason to drive a car in Istanbul, anyway: The public transport system is affordable, easy to use and reliable. Between the metro, trams, buses, ferries, and my personal favourite, dolmus vans, you can get anywhere you need to go with ease. Google Maps works well for planning your route.

Dolmus minivans – Turkey’s answer to a marshrutka – are a fun experience. The name literally means ‘stuffed’ because passengers are squeezed in like sardines. Keep in mind that the entire transport network is very busy and squishy during peak hour, especially in the morning between about 8-9.30am.

When boarding a bus in Istanbul, enter through the front door and tap your IstanbulKart on the electronic reader. If the bus is very full, you can board through the back doors and pass your card down the line for someone at the front to swipe.

12. You need an IstanbulKart transport pass

On our first trip to Istanbul, we walked a lot and relied on buying single-journey metro tickets for longer trips. This time around, we re-learned that only certain ticket machines inside the metro dispense single tickets – and usually they are the ones with an obnoxiously long line of people.

An IstanbulKart is an essential purchase if you plan to use public transport. There are several different cards available – all are valid for the metro, buses, trams and ferries. The so-called Anonymous IstanbulKart is recommended for tourists and is sold at kiosks and newsstands and inside metro stations for 50 TRY (non-refundable). You can use one card for multiple people (up to five people).

A single IstanbulKart fare costs 7.67 TRY. Compared to the 15 TRY for a single-journey ticket, you’ll end up saving almost 50% on every trip.

Note that metrobus fares vary according to the number of stops travelled, but metro fares are flat. Transfers are charged at 5.49 TRY for the first transfer and 4.17 TRY for the second leg.

Find more information about the public transport system here .

13. Use an app for taxis in Istanbul

Istanbul’s cab system is similarly well organised, with three types of taxis at different price points. Yellow taxis are standard and have the lowest fares (6.3 TL/km plus a switch-on fee of 9.8 TL). Turquoise taxis are a premium service and cost 20% more, while black taxis (always luxury vehicles) are twice as expensive as yellow taxis.

Taxis are metered, so it’s generally considered safe for a tourist to hail a cab on the street. However, scams do happen , which is one of the reasons most people (including many locals) prefer to use an app.

After numerous legal battles, Uber re-launched in Turkey in 2021. We used it on several occasions and found the service to be good – short wait times, friendly drivers, and competitive fares (we always paid in cash rather than hooking up our credit card – make sure you are carrying small bills).

Uber alternatives include BiTaksi and Itaksi. The former has POS contactless payment, which is great for paying by card.

14. Tipping is standard

Tipping is customary in Turkey, with 10% being the standard mark for restaurants and bars. For taxi drivers, it’s normal to round up to the nearest lira when paying in cash.

Of course you should only tip if you’re satisfied with the service. We found the quality of customer service in Istanbul to be pretty good across the board, with the exception of one chain cafe where we had a terrible experience.

Tipping is slightly higher for other service providers: 10-20% goes to your tellak or natir at the Turkish baths, and to your hairdresser or barber.

15. Can you drink the tap water in Istanbul?

This is a rhetorical question, because I’m still not sure what the correct answer is! Locals will warn you off tap water while at the same time, the government is running campaigns to encourage more people to drink from the faucet.

From what I understand, Istanbul tap water was undrinkable a decade ago. Infrastructure improvements (and the addition of chlorine to the water stream) have made tap water safe to drink, but many people still prefer to drink bottled water.

If the building you’re staying in has old, rusty pipes, it might be best to give tap water a wide berth. Try a small quantity and see how it sits with you.

16. Don’t flush your loo paper

Istanbul’s pipes are a bit sensitive, thus most restaurants, cafes and hotels request you place toilet tissue in a bin rather than flushing it down the loo. If this is the case, you’ll likely see a sign and a strategically placed wastepaper bin. If in doubt, don’t flush it.

17. If you need a bathroom, head to the nearest mosque

After chasing after non-existent bathrooms in malls and metro stations, I finally cottoned onto this little Istanbul tip: There are public toilets attached to most mosques and in my experience, they are almost always cleaner than public bathrooms elsewhere. Pan toilets are common. Men’s rooms are marked with bay , and women’s with bayan .

Some bathrooms are free to use, while others charge a small (1-2 TRY) fee. Another good reason to carry some small bills or coins with you.

18. Sip ayran to keep your tummy happy

Ayran is a savoury yogurt drink that has its roots in Turkey, but is popular around the region (I developed my ayran addiction several years ago in Bosnia and Herzegovina and have been sipping it ever since). It’s not too creamy, not too watery, and has just a hint of salty effervescence.

Because it’s yogurt, it’s full of good bacteria that do wonders to keep your gut in balance. Just as you might drink lassis in India, you can drink ayran in Istanbul to help ward off any potential food or water-related bugs.

Food poisoning definitely does occur in Istanbul, so watch what you eat and try to consume street food earlier in the day when it’s fresher (especially fish wraps and seafood).

People drink ayran with breakfast, lunch or dinner, and it is served at virtually every restaurant in Istanbul – either in little plastic tubs or from a fountain. Always go for the fresh option when it’s available: It’s light and aerated and extra delicious, presented with a big scoop of yogurty foam on top.

19. Drinking is common, but alcohol is not ubiquitous

The most popular alcoholic drinks in Istanbul are beer, wine and raki , a powerful spirit distilled from grapes or other fruits. Not all restaurants serve alcohol, however, and when you make your way over to the Asian side of Istanbul (which is noticeably more conservative), you’ll find that only a handful of establishments are licensed.

If you prefer to BYO, tekels are Istanbul’s answer to bottle shops. They normally sell a selection of local bottled beers and Turkish wines along with soft drinks, snack foods and cigarettes. It’s illegal to sell alcohol within 100 metres of a mosque or a school, so you won’t find any tekels in some neighbourhoods.

Sales are restricted to certain times of day – you cannot purchase drinks from a bottle shop between 10am and 6am (there are no restrictions on restaurants and bars, though). Alcohol is served as normal during Ramadan.

Excessive drinking is taboo in Turkish culture. Raki, the national drink, is a social beverage consumed slowly with food. It has aniseed notes and is sometimes served over water and ice, which gives it a milky colour.

If you want to try raki, head to a meyhane (meze bar), where alcohol is served with small places of food (also see point #26 on this list). You can order a small 350 mL bottle or a shot (~40 mL). Start slow – some rakis are 80-90 proof.

20. English is widely spoken (sort of)

The number of Turkish people who speak English is somewhere between 15-20% . Of course the rate is much higher in Istanbul, but still, English is not as widespread as you might imagine.

We found a bit of a paradox here: In big shops and phone stores, very little English was spoken, while we encountered staff who spoke perfect English in small restaurants and humble bakeries.

The bottom line is that it’s a bit of a mixed bag, so be prepared to sign and mime your way through some situations. Of course it helps to have some simple Turkish under your belt – knowing a few basic phrases can help to smooth things over.

Istanbul quirks to know before you go

Here are a few unusual quirks that tripped us up in Istanbul.

21. Pharmacies are hard to find

Turkey differentiates between ‘pharmacies’ and ‘cosmetic stores’ in a way that I’ve not noticed in any other country. The latter sells beauty and health products, but there is no pharmacist on staff and nowhere to buy over-the-counter medications or prescription meds.

Chains such as Watsons, Rossmann and Gratis are classified as ‘cosmetics stores’. If you need anything more serious than paracetamol or a revitalising face mask, you need a pharmacy or eczane .

Eczanesi are more difficult to come by. That’s because there are no chain pharmacies in Turkey. All pharmacies are small and owner-operated by a pharmacist – essentially mom-and-pop shops. You won’t find them in malls, only on the streets. Look for the ‘eczanesi’ sign in the window, and when using Google Maps, search for ‘eczane’ rather than ‘pharmacy’.

Pharmacies are worth hunting down if you need them: Many medicines are freely available in Turkey without a prescription, and prices are almost always cheaper than elsewhere in Europe. You do have to ask around, though, as every pharmacy has different stock and different generic brands. My partner spent several days searching for his medication and after asking at a dozen eczanesi, he finally found what he was looking for at a quarter of the price it is in Georgia.

22. Hand cologne is a thing

Istanbulites were sanitising their hands long before it was cool. The first time we had our hands doused in hand cologne by a friendly waiter, we assumed it was hand sanitiser – but no, this tradition far predates the pandemic.

Kolonya harks back to the days of the Ottoman Empire when a pleasant smelling liquid was sprinkled on guests’ hands as they would enter or exit private homes, hotels or hospitals. Today it’s widely used in restaurants after you pay the check. Some places have a little bottle on the table next to the salt and pepper shakers.

Scented with jasmine, lemon, rosewater or dark spice, a dash of hand cologne leaves your paws smelling fragrant fresh. Unlike hand gel, kolonya is very thin and watery – a little bit goes a long way. And because it’s ethanol-based, it does act as a disinfectant as well.

23. Don’t be surprised if you get asked for your phone number

Grocery stores, cosmetic stores, clothing shops and pharmacies alike seem to ask customers for a local phone number – I assume for marketing purposes rather than to track or register anything. This happened to us on a daily basis, and the first few times, the language barrier made it very confusing.

If you don’t have a local SIM (and even if you do), you can always say no and the cashier will copy a random number off the back of an old receipt.

24. Don’t stay too close to a mosque if you like to sleep in

Istanbul has its own backing track, and that is the sound of the call to prayer ( ezan ). The rumble of minarets whispering to each other is incredibly stirring – but your opinion might be slightly different if you happen to be laying your head near a mosque’s speakerbox every night.

The call to prayer happens five times a day, starting with the pre-dawn İmsak ( Fajr ), which reverberates around the city some time between 4-6am depending on the time of year. In July, it can be as early as 3.30am, with a second Sunrise ( Güneş ) call around 2 hours later.

With well over 3,000 mosques, you’ll more than likely have at least one or two nearby. If you’re a light sleeper, it’s worth scoping out the local mosques and choosing accommodation that’s further than earshot from the nearest minaret.

25. Don’t linger too long at a lokanta

Lokanta are a specific type of Turkish restaurant that serve casual, home-style meals to workers and tradesmen. Every neighbourhood has them, and they are a terrific place to sample salt-of-the-earth Turkish cuisine and soak up a bit of local culture at the same time.

When you sit down at a lokanta, a waiter will come to take your order within seconds. Some are cafeteria style, others are a-la-carte. At the end of the meal, empty plates are spirited away and the table sprayed and wiped just as fast as the food came out. Usually you settle the bill at a cash desk rather than requesting a written check.

It’s easy to overstay your welcome at this type of establishment, where the imperative is to turn tables as quickly as possible. They are perfect when you need a quick bite, but if you want a leisurely meal, choose a different sort of restaurant. Sidewalk meyhanes , for example, are the complete opposite. Serving meze and raki, they are designed for long, lingering lunches.

26. Don’t assume those meze plates are free

It’s normal for wait staff at a meyhane to present you with an attractive tray of small plates before they take your order. Turkish meze includes grilled eggplant with yogurt, fava beans, artichoke, and many, many more delicious bites designed for sharing over a bottle of raki.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming these small side salads are free – they are not. (Sides of chopped onion, herbs and chilli served in smaller silver dishes with kebab, on the other hand, are usually included in the price.)

27. Brace yourself for lots of uphill walking

They don’t call Istanbul the ‘City on Seven Hills’ for nothing. After a few days walking the streets, you might think the ‘city of seven million hills’ is a more apt nickname.

Constantinople was laid out in the image of Rome, which was of course built over a septet of hills. On the ground, it feels like all of Istanbul is rippled, with steep streets and vertiginous staircases at almost every turn. There are many advantages to this city plan, the delightfully sloped houses in Balat for one, and the spectacular city views you get from the higher elevations for another.

Comfy shoes and a whole lot of patience are absolutely essential when exploring Istanbul on foot, where it can literally feel like an uphill battle to get from one place to the next.

There are ways to avoid the slog, including using the funicular railways: Taksim-Kabatas and the historic Tunel that links Karakoy and Beyoglu. The latter is the world’s second-oldest subterranean rail line (after the London Underground) and the oldest still-operating underground funicular in Europe.

Istanbul travel tips to feel like a local

While it takes more than a three or four-day stay to feel like a fully fledged Istanbulite, here are a few little tricks to help you fit in.

28. Dress modestly to blend in

Istanbul is a metropolis through and through, with a liberal dress code to match. Almost anything goes, but I still recommend you cover up for comfort and to fit in with the crowd. Women should try to avoid plunging necklines, revealing fabrics, and very short hemlines.

There are noticeable differences between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, with more modest dress and more hijabs worn in Uskudar compared to Eminonu, for example. Generally speaking, Turkey gets more conservative the further east you go, and this holds true even in the city centre. Keep it in mind if you’re travelling around the country.

One place you definitely must observe the dress code is mosques, where covered arms (to the elbow for men or the wrist for women) and legs (down to the ankles) is required. Women must also cover their hair. Majority of mosques have pull-over muumuus that you can borrow (for free) at the door to fully cover up. Note that there are no dress requirements for young kids.

It’s obligatory to remove your shoes when entering a mosque, so on days when you’re sightseeing, wear kicks that you can easily slip off and on. And if you prefer not to go barefoot, carry a pair of ankle socks in the bottom of your bag. Some mosques provide plastic bags, otherwise you can just leave your shoes outside.

29. Never skip breakfast…

Breakfast is certainly the most important meal of the day in Turkey. Sunday breakfast is the queen of the morning meals, when the famous kahvalti tabagi ‘spread breakfast’ comes into its own.

On a Sunday, some Istanbulites spend the better part of the day between mid-morning and late afternoon gathered around the breakfast table with friends or family, noshing on an extravagant spread of cheeses, olives, cut vegetables and eggs served with supple somun bread. Kahvalti is a daily occurrence in places like Besiktast ‘Breakfast Street’ and in gourmet cafes such as Van Kahvalti.

If you’re on a tight timeline or a budget, breakfast doesn’t have to be drawn-out or expensive: There are faster and more affordable options, such as a pick-and-choose breakfast at Cakmak Kahvalti Salonu, where small plates range from 2-8 TRY each. 

Borekcisi (borek bakeries) serve portions of steaming hot filled pastry and chai, or for a simple breakfast snack on the go, grab a simit bagel from a street vendor.

30. …But don’t order coffee first thing

Kahvalti means ‘before coffee’. Breakfast is traditionally accompanied by cay , strong black tea, rather than Turkish coffee. It’s normal to down half a dozen glasses of tea in a single sitting (though two or three is usually enough). Most sit-down kahvalti breakfasts come with two pots of tea.

If you want to do things like a local, save your Türk kahvesi for after lunch and start your morning with cay sade – strong and bitter tea with no sugar – instead.

31. Don’t be afraid to haggle at the bazaar

Haggling is customary and expected at markets in Istanbul and in other commercial settings. You’ll find that most items at the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar have a price tag, but for those that don’t (and even for those that do), it’s quite normal to bargain for a better price. This is especially true if you’re buying more than one of something or multiple items from the same vendor. Rule of thumb is to aim for a 35-50% discount on the sticker price.

There are huge mark-ups at the Grand Bazaar, which seems to be almost exclusively the domain of tourists these days. There are local markets and street markets all over Istanbul where you’ll have a better chance of striking gold for a fair figure. Markets are held on different days of the week and following a rotating schedule, so you can always find something on. Popular food and flea markets take place in Karakoy (Tuesdays), Ortakoy (Thursdays), Uskudar (Fridays), and Besiktas (Saturdays).

If you do decide to brave the Grand Bazaar or another historic market in Istanbul, the best advice I’ve heard is to do your shopping in the mid-morning. It’s more likely that vendors have already made a few sales and met their daily commission targets, so there will be less pressure on you.

32. Don’t fall for the ‘shoe cleaner trick’

This one got us good.

One early morning we were walking down an alleyway in Besiktas when we heard a clack on the cobbles and noticed that someone had dropped a wooden shoe brush. Being the saint he is, my partner rushed to pick it up without a second thought and handed it back to the shoe cleaner whose caddy it had tumbled from.

Expressing his profound thanks, the guy promptly took a seat on the curb at our feet and insisted on shaking my husband’s hand in gratitude. That’s when he grabbed him by the wrist in a monkey grip and tried to pull him down for a coerced shoe cleaning. I should mention that he was wearing joggers, not leather shoes!

Neither of us were aware of this common scam at the time, so we thought the whole situation was quite hilarious. The man had a gorgeous smile and was very friendly – we actually gave him credit for this ingenious trick.

Only later when we heard about the scam did we realise what had (almost) happened to us. Ross managed to talk his way out of it, dirty shoes still intact.

We were not mad in the slightest, but it could have been a different story had we actually been talked into handing over cash. Keep an eye out for this trick, especially in touristy areas.

33. Embrace cat culture

There are up to a million cats and kittens living on the streets of Istanbul. Every cafe is a cat cafe, and every corner has its own posse of cute pusses. A picture-perfect clowder of cats lounging on fence posts and chairs like the princes and princesses they are awaits you at every turn.

Similar to street dogs in Georgia , the cats of Istanbul are regarded as community pets rather than strays and are fed and cared for by the locals. For the most part, they don’t bother people and keep to themselves. We definitely encountered a few fiercer felines on our travels – it’s pretty obvious which cats want pats and which ones need their personal space. They will let you know with a dagger stare or a hiss.

Cat culture can be traced back to Ottoman times, when tabbys helped to quash the city’s mice population. In this respect, cats are an inseparable part of the city’s social fabric.

If you’re an animal lover, it can be distressing to see so many cats living rough, especially when they’re not in the best shape. (Though I must say that every cat I met in Istanbul was plump and rosy.) It helps to know that Istanbul (and all of Turkey) has a no-kill, no capture policy.

34. Brush up on your basic hammam etiquette

Partaking in a traditional Turkish bath is a must-do in Istanbul. The hammams have aeons of history and custom attached to them – there are definite dos and don’ts, just as there are with the sulfur baths in Tbilisi . It helps to know how to handle things once the towels come out, lest you embarrass yourself.

Regarding nakedness, men normally strip down to nothing while women wear undies (single-use pairs are supplied by most bathhouses) then don a pestemal towel, which stays wrapped around you for the duration of your stay.

The Turkish-style skin peel/massage ( kese ) can be quite rough on the skin and muscles. The therapist, known as a natir or tellak , will always be of the same gender. It’s customary to tip them 10-20% after your treatment.

For more Turkish hammam hints, see this guide .

More helpful Istanbul tips to make the most of your visit

Finally, here are a handful of practical tips for planning your itinerary and getting the most out of your time in Istanbul.

35. Organise your Istanbul itinerary by neighbourhood/district

Istanbul has 39 districts, each with its own character and appeal. From the Instagrammable houses and antique shops in Balat, to the trendy cafes in Cihangir, the rambunctious fish market in Uskudar to the Ottoman-era mansions in Arnavutkoy , every corner of the city has something incredible up its sleeve.

A great way to organise your time in Istanbul is by planning your movements around the different neighbourhoods. Each one is quite discreet, so you can knock out a to-do list before moving onto the next.

Some neighbourhoods naturally pair together thanks to geography and transport logistics: Galata and Karakoy, Fener and Balat, Uskudar and Kadikoy, Cihangir and Cukurcuma. See my Istanbul 4-day itinerary for more ideas on how to plan your visit by district.

38. Consider signing up for a food tour

One thing every Istanbul neighbourhood has in common is its never-ending supply of cafes, restaurants and street food vendors. One of the best ways to discover the city – especially if you’re on a tight timeline – is by signing up for a food tour.

I was lucky enough to join Culinary Backstreets’ Born on the Bosphorus tour during my most recent visit to Istanbul. It was one of the highlights of my trip – not only because of the delicious food, but mainly thanks to our incredible guide, Benoit, who over the course of a full day taught me so much about Istanbul’s food and beyond.

The popular Taste of Two Continents tour, with 11 food stops and a Bosphorus ferry crossing, is a good alternative if you’re looking for a half-day experience.

37. Get an early start to beat the crowds

This is particularly important in summer, when the touristy parts of the city get extremely crowded. One of the best ways to avoid long waits at landmarks such as Galata Tower is by waking up early and arriving as doors open.

The metro starts running at 6am – and from Friday evening to Sunday morning public transport operates 24/7 – so there’s no excuse not to get out in the early AM.

38. Invest in a Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass

There is a gamut of different tourist cards and passes available for Istanbul. The 5-day Istanbul Museum Pass or the 2-7 day E-Pass is one of the best investments you can make if you plan on doing the rounds through the city’s best museums and big attractions.

The digital pass gives you skip-the-queue access to 10 of the city’s finest cultural institutions, including Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace and the Harem, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and the Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum.

Available to purchase online before you arrive, it uses a simple QR code system. Just show your pass on your mobile – no need to print anything.

Only buy the pass if it makes sense for you, though: You have to visit multiple attractions for it to pay off, though the other perks – particularly the ability to skip the ticket line – are invaluable in a sense.

Purchase the official Istanbul E-Pass here via Viator .

39. Check prayer times in advance

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are both active mosques, open to visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Except during prayer times, that is.

All of Istanbul’s mosques temporarily close to non-Muslim visitors five times a day for a period of about 90 minutes. For the duration of the Congregational Prayers, no tourists are permitted to enter.

It’s imperative to check prayer times in advance. If you show up while prayers are on, you will be met with a long wait outside. Times are signposted at the bigger mosques or you can check online .

The queue to enter the Hagia Sophia gets very long towards the end of the prayer session. The best time to visit is 30-40 minutes before the mosque is scheduled to close. Don’t try to visit on Fridays when the Jumu’ah prayer takes place – this is one of the busiest times, and it’s always crowded and chaotic.

If your Istanbul visit coincides with Ramadan or another Islamic holiday, prayer times might be different and mosques might be closed for longer periods during the day.

40. Skip the Bosphorus cruise – take advantage of local ferries instead

Some people opt to experience the Bosphorus on board a yacht at sunset with champagne and nibbles. If your budget won’t stretch that far, or you just prefer a local experience, then a ride on the public ferry offers the same ambiance and water views for a fraction of the price.

Hundreds of ferries criss-cross the strait, linking Istanbul’s Asian and European sides. The most scenic ferry routes include Besiktas to Kadikoy, Karakoy to Uskudar, and Karakoy to Kadikoy. Some boats go up the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea, and others head in the opposite direction towards the Princes’ Islands.

Bring a simit bagel to snack on (and to lure seagulls in for photos), or order a tulip-shaped glass of tea from one of the roving vendors on board.

41. Don’t miss the sunset from Galata Bridge

There is only one way to end a day in Istanbul in my opinion, and that’s by watching the sun go down from Galata Bridge. It might be touristy as heck, but there’s a good reason why this is such a popular spot. Views of the glittering water and intertwining boats, mosque minarets silhouetted against a dusky blue sky framed by fishermen casting their lines off the edge of the bridge, are absolute gold.

I recommend finding a spot to stand on the western side of the bridge, above the area where the Karakoy ferry docks. Aim to arrive about an hour before sunset for the best light.

For the perfect Istanbul photo, wait patiently for the garbage truck to come down the street and dump its load in the bins near the ferry terminal – this sends the seagulls into a frenzy, and they fill the skies with their spinning and diving for a good 15 minutes.

42. ‘Authentic’ Whirling Dervish ceremonies still exist – here’s how to find one

Speaking of Istanbul must-dos: A Whirling Dervish show is a bucket-list item for many. I was warned that all Mevlevi Sema ceremonies had become commercialised and ‘spoiled’ by tourists to the point where they just weren’t worth pursuing any more. So I made it my mission to find a real, ‘authentic’ Sema ritual in Istanbul, and I’m happy to say that I eventually did.

Get all the details about the best Whirling Dervish ceremony in Istanbul in this guide .

Where to stay in Istanbul

Budget: Hostel Le Banc (⭐ 9.5) – This popular hostel in Beyoglu is footsteps from the Galata Tower and Sishane metro station. It features air-conditioned rooms (private doubles and mixed/all-female 4 and 10-bed dorms), a shared lounge and a terrace.

Mid-range: 38 Hotel (⭐ 8.6) – Located in Sisli, close to Osmanbey metro station, this hotel has compact, tidy double rooms and suites.

Boutique: Hotel Empress Zoe (⭐ 9.2) – This gorgeous boutique hotel is decorated with heritage flourishes and boasts hammam-like ensuites and private internal terraces. The location in Fatih, minutes from Sultan Ahmet Mosque and the Blue Mosque, is very central yet the hotel still feels secluded.

Luxury: Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (⭐ 9.5) – Located in Beyoglu close to Galata Tower, this boutique-luxury hotel offers high-end suites with private courtyards and terraces. The building, an old Italian Dominican school with remnants of the 13th-century Galata walls inside its courtyard, is dripping with history.

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Istanbul travel resources

• 1-4 day Istanbul itinerary
• Istanbul travel budget
• The ultimate guide to eating out in Istanbul
• Tips for visiting Galata Tower for Istanbul city views
• The best Whirling Dervishes ceremony in Istanbul
• Guide to Arnavutkoy, Istanbul’s most beautiful district
• The best places to visit in Turkey
• Turkey in winter: Where to go plus travel tips

12 Comments

Detailed tips are super helpful, especially about the best time to visit and the ins and outs of public transport.

Thank you. Right now in Turkey with wife and kids. Following your steps and recommendations. Just one thing: booking asked for a price but the hotel converted the price to Liras and charged me much more for exactly the same booking and service! Thank you again,

I love your travel blog! Your vivid descriptions and stunning photographs make me feel like I’m right there with you. It’s inspiring to see someone embracing adventure and exploring new cultures. Keep the travel stories coming!

Excellent article and links for further information. I am planning a trip to Turkey in September with my wife and your articles a great start and support. Great job! Alejandro

This is very, very helpful. Thank you so much.

Early in your article you indicated that Booking.com does not work in Turkey, yet in the section, entitled “Turkey Essentials”, you direct us to that site for Hotels. Maybe I am missing something, but that appears to be contradictory. I found the article very helpful…..Thanks for the information.

Hi JB – I still recommend using Booking, only you have to reserve from outside of Turkey ie. before you arrive.

Thanks so much, this was really helpful. Lots of good to know stuff that I didn’t find mentioned elsewhere

it was very helpful thank you

Ha, I made the same mistake again and didn’t read through your info thoroughly. In Georgia, I paid more than I needed to for a SIM at the airport and this time, I could have saved a few lira on a bank withdrawal in Istanbul.

Already appreciating the smiles and kindness in Istanbul very much.

Love your work Emily.

Perhaps it’s different for Australian passport holders, but I found the VOA to be a better deal than the eVisa for Americans. Our eVisas were fast and easy to get, but cost $50 plus a 2 dollar service fee. We got them before traveling to Turkey last year, but went twice to make them a better value. This past month we got VOA (no lines) and paid 25 euros each. Both are valid for 6 months. Plus you get a little visa stamp in your passport!

Thanks Owen for the info – you’re right, VOA is more affordable for US passport holders, but not for us Aussies unfortunately! I would have loved a visa stamp. I’ll update that now. Cheers!

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Bring earplugs so the dawn call to prayer, broadcast over speakers from the mosques, doesn't wake you.

isailthe7seas

Allow the call to prayer you hear throughout your day, be a reminder to stop and just take in the fact that you are in Istanbul. As a woman, know when you might be interacting with a more old fashion Islamic gentleman. If need be let the man traveling with you take the lead. Have toilet paper in your daypack. Practice the position of the Turkish toilet at home. you will probably need to use one at least once. ** just because the toilet stall that is available is Turkish toilet, doesn't mean that ALL are. the one that is occupied could be worth the wait.

sarikanarya

There are so many cliched phrases used to describe İstanbul - ancient and modern, where east meets west, old world blended with new world etc etc and they are all true. There is history, culture, shopping, sightseeing, museums, galleries, boat trips.There is SO much!

Istanbul is a magnificent city...one full of beauty, history, spectacular architecture, amazing restaurants, views to die for, wonderful little family-owned hotels, exceptionally kind and honest people, fun filled nightclubs, exotic sounds, exotic smells, and many other fabulous things too numerous to mention.

... too often we try to paint those places we love as bastions of perfection. I've been guilty of it, and so have others. No place, however, is perfect. And anyway, perfection is boring. Istanbul can stand proud and tall...even with her imperfections...and I hope we can all take a step back and realize that.

What is the best way to get there?

The city of Istanbul is served by Istanbul International Airport.

Istanbul is home to two trains stations, Haydarpasa station on the Asian side and Sirkeci station on the European side. Trains from Haydarpasa are destined for cities and towns in Anatolia, while Haydarpasa serves as the gateway to major European destinations.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Istanbul from overseas, check if you need a visa using the following  website .

When is the best time to visit?

The best times to visit Istanbul are between March and May and September and November. April is particularly beautiful because poppies and tulips, which first originated in Turkey, are in full bloom. Average daily temperatures in springtime can be highs of 15 C/59 F and lows of 7 C/45 F and highs around 19 C/66 F and lows around 12 C/55 F in autumn.

The bridge that connects the Asian and European sides of Istanbul is notorious for its traffic jams, making the best way to span the Bosphorus the vapur (ferry). The three main ferry stations on the European side are Besiktas, Kabatas, and Karakoy. Timetables are posted at each terminal.

Istanbul has an underground metro network that spans both sides of the city. It runs from morning until late at night and covers all top attractions. It gets very crowded during the morning and evening rush hours.

For comprehensive train maps, follow this  link .

There’s an abundance of taxi cabs in Istanbul, which makes hailing a ride a breeze. For ease, download the BiTaksi app , which sends the nearest taxi your way.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

The time zone in Turkey is GMT+3

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Istanbul is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. There are two associated plugs types: type C, with two round pins, and plug F, which has two round pins and two earth clips on the side. For plug types, you can reference the international guide: https://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/

What is the currency?

Turkish lira (TRY)

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted.

Yes, in hotels, restaurants, and bars but not smaller businesses.

Is it easy to find a bank?

How much do i tip, hotel staff, turkish bath (hammam) attendants, are there local customs i should know, turkish people are generally very tactile.

and, if you are of the same sex, are likely to touch you during exchanges.

Don’t point at someone

as this is considered rude in Istanbul.

Public displays of affection

such as kissing is considered disrespectful when in public. In public, you will rarely see members of the opposite sex touch one another.

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25 Best Things to Do in Istanbul

From historic squares to the Grand Bazaar, there's much to do in the Turkish metropolis.

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Surely there has never been a dull moment in Istanbul . An imperial capital for 1,700 years, the metropolis has long stood as a gateway between the East and West, and that has made it a hub for crossing cultures, religions, ideologies, and cuisine. And the legacy of the city — formerly Constantinople — has withstood the test of time. "It is a city with an incredible depth of culture, and history like no other," says Liam Dunch, product manager of Abercrombie & Kent, Europe. "Discovery through the stratification and the layers will be constant and unending. Observing the way that people of the city blend together the notions of the East and those of the West is an incredible experience."

Mina Agnos, president of Travelive and a Travel and Leisure A-List Advisor , agrees that the bustling city is a quintessential destination for anyone aiming to understand Turkey. "Every visit to Turkey either starts or ends with Istanbul," she adds. "It is a uniquely diverse city with so many unforgettable sites to discover." Read on to learn what these experts name as the best things to do in Istanbul.

Related : Travel + Leisure Readers' 3 Favorite Hotels in Istanbul of 2023

Experience Taksim Square.

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Taksim Square is in the heart of modern Istanbul, perched at the end of the famous pedestrian street Istiklal Caddesi. Past meets present here; at one end you have the grand Taksim Mosque, and at the other is the modern Ataturk Cultural Center . This is where the hum of Istanbul’s activity vibrates at its highest level.

Stroll down Istiklal Caddesi.

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Speaking of Istiklal Caddesi, this pedestrian-only walking street is the place to soak in the vibe of Istanbul. It is one of the most famous thoroughfares in the country today and is flanked by both Ottoman-era buildings and Art Nouveau and Art Deco structures. The buildings house everything from boutiques and art galleries to cafes, theaters, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Sample Turkish kebab.

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Turkish cuisine includes a dizzying array of grilled meats, seafood, salads, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices, rich desserts, coffee, and tea. When visiting Istanbul, you will want to try as many of the above as possible, but perhaps Turkish kebab especially. Made of marinated lamb or beef, the kebab is cooked on skewers and served alongside vegetables or wrapped up in lavash bread.

Visit the Galata Tower.

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Rising from the historic streets of Istanbul's Beyoglu district, Galata Tower was originally constructed as a watchtower during the Byzantine era. The structure that stands today, however, dates back to the 13th century and serves as a gallery and museum. A primary feature of the tower is a 360-degree observation deck that overlooks Istanbul.

Shop and party in Beyoglu.

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"The European side of Istanbul is home to the main historic district," says Agnos. "This side of the city is considered more 'Western' and it includes nightlife spots and more cosmopolitan districts such as Beyoglu and Karakoy. Beyoglu is famous for its vibrant atmosphere; this area offers wonderful stops for shopping, dining, and nightlife." It's likely you will spend a lot of time in Beyoglu should you travel to Istanbul. Steeped in more than a thousand years of history, the neighborhood is the beating heart of modern Istanbul on the European side of the city.

Grab a drink at Grand Hotel de Londres.

A grande dame of Istanbul, Grand Hotel de Londres is a beautifully preserved building from the 1800s. It's all about opulence here, from the rich color palette and glittering chandeliers to plush wall-to-wall carpeting. The terrace bar is a favorite hangout for tourists and locals; there's often live music here, plus beautiful sunset views over the Golden Horn. "This is a good suggestion for travelers that have been to Istanbul," says Agnos. "It's an off-the-beaten-path suggestion for visitors to really feel the vibe of the city."

Explore Karakoy.

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"Karakoy, the modern name for the old Galata, is part of the Beyoglu district," says Agnos. "It is known as one of the hippest and oldest neighborhoods in Istanbul, home to arty cafes, local boutiques, cocktail bars open late into the night, and art galleries. There is a growing local fashion and art scene in this area."

Marvel at the Blue Mosque.

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One of the most recognizable landmarks in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is a beacon in the city skyline. It is known for its gorgeous domes and six soaring minaret towers. The mosque dates back to the 17th century and is still a functioning mosque today.

Visit Hagia Sophia.

Not far from the Blue Mosque is the equally impressive Hagia Sophia. Originally built as a church where rulers of the empire were crowned, it was later converted to a mosque. Today it serves as a museum dedicated to Turkey, and it remains one of the most important monuments for both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

Roam the Hippodrome.

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Back when Istanbul was the imperial capital of Constantinople, it was known for its horse and chariot racing, and the Hippodrome was where these exciting, adrenaline-pumping races took place. While the original venue is no longer around, what stands in its place is Sultanahmet Square, where several monuments serve as reminders of the area's millennia-old past.

Explore the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum.

The Turkish and Islamic Art Museum is a revolutionary museum for Turkey, being the first in the country to showcase Turkish and Islamic artwork together. Opened in 1914, it was the last museum to open during the Ottoman Empire period. The museum has 1,700 pieces of art, and its carpet collection is among the most impressive in the world.

Journey underground at the Basilica Cistern.

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Istanbul's skyline soars with some of the world's most beautiful and historic monuments, and the beauty continues underneath the pavement, too, thanks to masterpieces of engineering and infrastructure. The primary water reservoir for Constantinople, the Basilica Cistern is cathedral-esque and a sight to see. Built during the 4th century, it is supported by 336 columns and can hold up to 17.5 million gallons of water.

Visit Topkapi Palace.

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This 15th-century palace was once the administrative headquarters for the Ottoman Empire. Now a museum, the venue is full of treasures, from walls festooned with gorgeous paintings to rooms that give way to sumptuous courtyards — you can even explore the opulent former harem. It's one of the best places in Istanbul to learn about the former grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.

Check out the Süleymaniye Mosque.

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Istanbul is not short on impressive mosques, and Süleymaniye Mosque is certainly one of its most beautiful. Considered the masterpiece of architect Mimar Sinan, the mosque was built in the 16th century to honor Sultan Süleyman, the longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman Empire. The central dome stands at a staggering 154 feet tall and the interior is beautifully decorated with colors of gold, green, red, and blue.

Ferry to Istanbul’s Asian side.

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Istanbul stands as an important crossroads between Europe and Asia, and the city itself is divided between the two continents by the Bosphorus Strait. Be sure to immerse yourself in both sides of this rich city in order to best understand its history. There are more than 20 ferry routes across the Bosphorus, and the crossing takes only 15 minutes.

Admire Beylerbeyi Palace.

Across the Bosphorus, Beylerbeyi Palace is a 19th-century estate built as a summer palace for royalty. It was also used as a residence for visiting heads of state. The now-museum is a gorgeous example of interior design and architecture, with nods to both Ottoman and Neo-Baroque styles. The stunning gardens that surround the palace are equally impressive.

Shop around Kadikoy Market.

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Kadikoy Market is part of a buzzy bazaar on Istanbul's Asian side. Overlooking the Sea of Marmara, the market is a historic one, home to more than 4,000 vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to carpets, pottery, textiles, and paintings. It is also one of the best spots in the city to sample Turkish street food and Turkish delights, a jelly candy made with rosewater.

Walk the Kuzguncuk neighborhood.

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Sandwiched between Uskudar and Beylerbeyi, Kuzguncuk is one of the most lively and vibrant neighborhoods in Istanbul's Asian side, and it has always been a melting pot of religions and cultures. You'll see mosques, churches, and synagogues here, plus the neighborhood's funky mishmash of coffee shops, restaurants, tree-lined cobblestone streets, and brightly colored historic homes.

Bargain at the Grand Bazaar.

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Prepare to feast your eyes on the granddaddy of all covered markets. One of the world's oldest and largest venues of its kind, the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul contains a maze of streets and thousands of shops. Vendors sell everything you could possibly think of, so if you're a professional at haggling, this will be like your Super Bowl.

Get a serious scrubbing at Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı.

Wellness has been "on trend" in Turkey for hundreds of years, and visitors can step back into the old ways of wellness with a visit to the iconic Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı. The building dates back to the 16th century and serves as one of the top spots in the city for a classic hamam ritual today. Remember to book accordingly — the hamam is open to women in the morning and men in the afternoon.

Visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pege.

This early Byzantine monastery has a history of miracles and legends tied to it, thanks to a spring that is believed to have magical powers. It's also set on a hilltop, making it a great place to take in city views.

Connect with the local community.

If you like to step into the shoes of a local when you travel, you can do that in Turkey. Agnos recommends visiting the island village of Bozcaada in August to harvest and sell tomatoes with the local community. Or, if you're in Bodrum, join the olive harvest that occurs between September 15 and December 25.

Enjoy the Mediterranean climate.

Istanbul may be a cosmopolitan city, but it is surrounded by nature at every turn, with coastal views, island-style living, forests, and parks. "There are many seaside promenades where locals walk, run, or socialize and hang out," says Dunch. "From early June to the end of September, public beaches on the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara are open." Dunch also recommends enjoying open-air concerts in the summer, or visiting Belgrad Forest, north of the city. "Around Prince's Island," he adds, "sailing and water sports are popular."

Discover your favorite ‘esnaf lokantası’.

Istanbul has some of the top restaurants in Europe, but local, homestyle street food cafes are where the city really shows its heart. "I recommend eating at a craftsmen's eatery," said Dunch. "They are referred to as 'esnaf lokantası,' frequented by shopkeepers and craftsmen in commercially vibrant areas, such as the markets, and they offer underrated and extremely tasty home-style cooking. This is as close as a visitor can get to the heart of Turkish cuisine."

Be entertained at Bomontiada.

The impressive Bomontiada complex is a center for the arts. There's the Ara Güler Museum, restaurants, and a calendar of outdoor concerts and movie screenings, making this the place to go for all forms of entertainment. It also happens to be housed within the once-abandoned Bomonti beer factory, and it was integral to helping redefine this formerly desolate part of the city.

Your Travel Guide for Istanbul

Istanbul, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is Turkey’s largest city with a population of over 15 million. It’s renowned for its historic sites like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, while also being a bustling modern metropolis. Istanbul welcomes around 13 million tourists annually, offering a unique mix of cultures, cuisines, and experiences. Tourists can savor delicious Turkish cuisine, explore iconic historical sites, enjoy warm hospitality, shop in vibrant bazaars, immerse themselves in a diverse culture, and experience a lively nightlife scene.

Get ready for your trip

• Discover the best time to visit
• Book your flight
• Find the best place to stay in Istanbul
• Make a list of top places to see
• Learn how to get an IstanbulKart and how to use public transport
• Get your Museum Pass for Istanbul
• Find out how to get from Istanbul Airport to Taksim
• Discover the best Street Food in Istanbul
• Learn more about the Istanbul Must-Eats
• Find the best Night Clubs
• Discover where to get the best Turkish Breakfast in Istanbul

Learn more about Istanbul

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Practical things to know before visiting istanbul, planning the trip.

• Spend 3-4 Days Exploring Istanbul When visiting Istanbul, allocate at least 3-4 days to get a proper introduction to this vast city and see its main attractions. Istanbul’s endless neighborhoods, ferry trips, museums, and dining options mean you could easily extend your stay beyond a week.
• Pre-Book Your Accommodation Hotel booking platforms like Booking.com might not work in Turkey, so it’s wise to browse and secure your lodging in advance. This is especially vital during the peak season (June to August) when nicer hotels tend to sell out early, and prices can surge. Find the best hotels in Taksim !
• Avoid Renting a Car Istanbul’s traffic can be chaotic, making it unnecessary to rent a car within the city. The public transportation system, which includes the metro, trams, buses, and ferries, is affordable and dependable. Google Maps is a valuable tool for planning routes.
• Choose Comfortable Footwear For extensive walking and standing, wear comfortable, well-broken-in shoes. Leave heels at home and opt for trainers, especially if you plan to use public transport.
• Stay Away from Mosques If You’re a Light Sleeper Mosques in Istanbul may issue calls to prayer as early as 4 am. To ensure a peaceful night’s sleep, consider booking accommodation away from mosques if you’re a light sleeper.
• Be Mindful of Banned Websites Certain websites, including PayPal, Wikipedia, and Booking.com, may be inaccessible in Turkey. Plan your online activities accordingly, and consider using a VPN.

Getting around

• Use Public Transport from the Airports For convenience and speed, opt for public transport options like shuttle buses or the metro when arriving at Istanbul’s airports. They provide direct access to areas like Taksim and the city center. Learn more about how to get from Istanbul Airport to Taksim .
• Invest in an Istanbul Kart Consider purchasing an Istanbul Kart for public transportation. It offers significantly reduced fares compared to single tickets and can be used by up to five people, making it a cost-effective choice for groups. Find out how to get an Istanbulkart and the prices !
• Use Taxi Apps Istanbul offers various types of taxis at different price points, but it’s safer to use taxi apps to avoid scams and ensure reliability.
• Enjoy Local Ferries Rather than splurging on a Bosphorus cruise, take advantage of affordable local ferries to enjoy similar scenic views. Ferries criss-cross the Bosphorus, offering a more budget-friendly way to experience the city’s waterways.

While you are there

• Combine Cards and Cash While credit/debit cards are widely accepted in Istanbul, smaller shops, street food vendors, and certain restaurants may prefer cash. Carry small bills for tipping and to meet card purchase limits in some stores.
• Be Prepared for Hills Istanbul is known as the “City on the Seven Hills,” so expect steep streets, especially in areas like Beyoglu, Balat, and around the Galata Tower. Comfortable shoes and water are essential for navigating the hilly terrain.
• Consider Tourist Passes Invest in tourist passes like the Istanbul Museum Pass or E-Pass for skip-the-line access to major cultural institutions. These passes are particularly beneficial if you plan to visit multiple attractions. Learn more about the Museum Pass !
• Start Early to Beat Crowds To avoid crowds, especially during the summer, start your day early and arrive at popular landmarks when they open. The metro operates as early as 6 am, making it easy to get around in the early morning.
• English Is Limited While English is spoken, it’s not as widespread as you might expect. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can be helpful, as not everyone you encounter will be fluent in English.
• Don’t Flush Toilet Paper Many places in Istanbul request that you dispose of toilet tissue in a bin rather than flushing it due to sensitive plumbing. Follow the posted instructions in restrooms.
• Beware of Scams Be cautious of potential scams, such as overcharging in restaurants and cab rides. Double-check your bills and use reputable services to avoid unwanted surprises.
• Remember to Tip Tipping is common in Turkey, and it’s customary to tip between 5-10% of the bill in restaurants, with higher-end dining often warranting a 10-15% tip. Always tip in cash.

Is Istanbul expensive?

Istanbul’s affordability for travelers has evolved over the years. While it used to be very cheap, it is still relatively budget-friendly compared to many other European cities. However, the cost of your trip can vary significantly depending on your preferences and choices. In recent years, Istanbul has seen an increase in prices for various aspects of travel, from accommodation and transportation to groceries and entertainment. This increase can be attributed to several factors, including Turkey’s currency devaluation, foreign trade deficit, negative interest rates, and the Russian war in Ukraine, all contributing to rising prices.

The good news is that you can experience Istanbul on a budget and still have an enjoyable trip. Accommodation, public transport, and local food can be quite affordable while offering a rich cultural experience. Additionally, purchasing a museum pass for around $75 can cover most of the city’s attractions, making it a cost-effective way to explore Istanbul’s history and culture.

Ultimately, the cost of your trip will depend on your choices regarding dining, accommodation, and the activities and attractions you decide to explore. Many international visitors still view Istanbul as one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, which is why the city continues to attract millions of travelers each year.

Where to stay in Istanbul?

When deciding where to stay in Istanbul, it’s essential to consider your preferences and priorities. The city offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and accommodations to suit different traveler needs. If you want to be at the heart of Istanbul’s historical and cultural attractions, Sultanahmet is an excellent choice. It’s home to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Meanwhile, Taksim Square in Beyoglu is perfect for those who want a vibrant, bustling atmosphere with plenty of dining, shopping, and nightlife options. If you prefer a more tranquil and charming setting, consider the historic neighborhoods of Balat or Kadikoy, known for their picturesque streets, local markets, and waterfront views.

Overview of the best places to stay in Istanbul

• Sultanahmet : This is where you’ll find Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, making it an ideal choice for history enthusiasts. Accommodations here range from luxury hotels with stunning views of the Bosphorus to charming boutique hotels.
• Taksim/Beyoglu : If you want a lively atmosphere, Taksim is the place to be. It’s packed with restaurants, bars, and shops. Choose from trendy boutique hotels, international chains, or budget-friendly hostels.
• Sirkeci : Located near Sultanahmet, Sirkeci offers a convenient location for exploring historic sites. You’ll find a mix of international chain hotels and charming boutique options.
• Galata : Galata is famous for its historic tower and the trendy Karakoy neighborhood. Accommodations include boutique hotels with modern amenities and panoramic views.
• Ortaköy : Situated on the Bosphorus, Ortaköy is known for its vibrant nightlife and the iconic Ortaköy Mosque. You can choose from waterfront hotels and cozy guesthouses.
• Besiktas : This area is known for its waterfront, vibrant nightlife, and upscale shopping. You can stay in modern hotels or stylish boutique accommodations here.
• Balat : This historic district offers a taste of old Istanbul, with colorful houses and a relaxed vibe. You can find boutique hotels and guesthouses that provide a cozy, local experience.
• Kadikoy : Located on the Asian side, Kadikoy offers a more laid-back environment with a local feel. You’ll discover comfortable hotels and rental apartments, along with great local eateries.
• Üsküdar : On the Asian side, Üsküdar provides a more tranquil setting with beautiful views of the European side. Accommodations include waterfront hotels and comfortable guesthouses.

Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökcen Airport?

For tourists, choosing between Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökcen Airport (SAW) depends on your destination within the city. Istanbul Airport, is located on the European side and is better connected with a frequent shuttle bus service and a shorter metro connection to the city center. Istanbul Airport offers around-the-clock shuttle buses to various tourist destinations. On the other hand, Sabiha Gökcen Airport, situated on the Asian side, has limited shuttle bus options to Kadiköy and Taksim, and the metro connection to Kadiköy takes almost an hour. Additionally, most international flights operated by Turkish Airlines land at Istanbul Airport. So, if you’re heading to the European side or looking for more transportation options, Istanbul Airport might be your preferred choice, while Sabiha Gökcen may be more convenient if you’re staying on the Asian side of the city.

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The Ultimate Guide to Istanbul: Discover Turkish Delights & History

Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, Europe and Asia, is a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you explore this vibrant city:

Historical and Cultural Landmarks

• Hagia Sophia : A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, this former church and mosque is now a museum showcasing both Christian and Islamic art.
• Topkapi Palace : Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, it’s now a museum displaying imperial collections, including the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak and sword.
• Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) : Famous for its blue tiles adorning the walls of its interior, it’s an active mosque and a must-visit landmark.
• Grand Bazaar : One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices to jewelry.
• Basilica Cistern : An underground marvel featuring hundreds of ancient columns, famously featured in the James Bond film “From Russia with Love”.

Modern Attractions

• Galata Tower : Offers panoramic views of the city.
• Istiklal Street : A bustling pedestrian street with shops, cafés, and historic trams.
• Dolmabahçe Palace : A stunning 19th-century palace blending Ottoman and European architecture.

Culinary Delights

• Turkish Cuisine : Don’t miss trying traditional dishes like kebabs, baklava, Turkish delight, and the famous Turkish tea and coffee.
• Local Markets : Visit Spice Bazaar for an authentic taste of Turkish spices and delicacies.

Cultural Experiences

• Turkish Bath (Hamam) : Experience traditional Turkish baths at places like Çemberlitaş Hamamı.
• Bosphorus Cruise : Take a cruise to see the city from a different perspective, separating Europe and Asia.

Tips for Travelers

• Transportation : Use Istanbulkart for public transport like buses, trams, and ferries.
• Language : Turkish is the official language; learning basic phrases can be helpful.
• Currency : Turkish Lira (TRY) is the currency; credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have cash in local markets.

Accommodation

• From luxury hotels in Taksim Square to budget-friendly hostels in Sultanahmet, Istanbul offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Safety and Etiquette

• Istanbul is generally safe, but usual travel precautions apply.
• Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
• Princes’ Islands : A short ferry ride away, offering a tranquil escape from the city.
• Edirne : Former Ottoman capital with beautiful mosques.

Istanbul is a city that never fails to enchant its visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking sights. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Istanbul offers something for everyone. Remember to respect local customs and enjoy the diverse experiences this magnificent city has to offer.

• The best times to visit Istanbul are during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.
• This depends on your nationality. Many tourists can enter Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days. Check the latest information from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Istanbul is generally safe for tourists. However, like in any large city, it’s important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places.
• The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
• Istanbul is famous for its rich history, diverse culture, delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.

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• Things to Do Guide
• Top 10 Attractions
• Shopping Master Guide
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• Grand Bazaar (Kapalicarsi)
• Egyptian Spice Market
• Historical Bazaars & Markets
• Top Street Markets
• Dining Master Guide
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• Best Restaurants in Sisli
• Best Restaurants in Fatih
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• Breakfast & Brunch
• Best Street Food
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• Nightlife Master Guide
• Best Pub Crawl
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• Best Irish Pubs
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• Best Night Clubs
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• Families & Kids
• Bosphorus Cruises
• Turkish Bath – Hammam
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• Istanbul on a Budget
• Bosphorus Strait
• Best of Bosphorus Cruises
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
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• Best Cruise Companies
• Which Cruise to Take?
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• Private Bosphorus Yacht Cruise
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• Tips for Booking
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• Galata Tower
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• Whirling Dervishes Show
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• Istanbul Tourist Pass
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• Best English Guided Tours
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• Top 15 Bosphorus Cruises
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• Istanbul Aquarium
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• Madame Tussauds Wax
• Must do day trips
• Cappadocia from Istanbul
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• One Day Itinerary
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• Where to Stay Master Guide
• Top Luxury Istanbul Hotels
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• Istanbul in a Nutshell
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The best Istanbul Travel Guide

Welcome to Istanbeautiful, your practical city and medi guide to Istanbul, Turkey…

Find things to do in Istanbul, days out, attractions and sightseeing in Istanbul, what’s on, Istanbul festivals and events, tours, restaurants and hotels in Istanbul. Plan your trip to Istanbul with useful traveler information.

We are a team and fellows of Istanbul locals, expats and world travelers. We aim to provide the very up-to-date and quality information and advice for your trip to our city Istanbul. We try to do our best to keep our website up-to-date with all the tourist information. Our motto is  “Your Go-See-Do-Heal Advisor” . We try to do our best to provide you the best advice on the city’s top sights and sounds, with the very best tourist , medical and health services from the trusted companies and providers.

Things to Do in Istanbul (2024 Essential Attractions Insider Guide)

Places to see in istanbul (2024 essential sights insider guide), istanbul dining guide 2024: what to eat best places + advice, istanbul shopping guide 2024: what to buy best areas to shop, nightlife in istanbul: 2024 guide with hot spots, districts, clubs.

Augusta, Antonina, Nova Roma, Byzantion, Byzantium, Constantinople and finally Istanbul…  These exciting names reminds the mysterious and enchanting past of the city. Istanbul can be considered as the combination of the old and modern city, as well as Islamic and Mediterranean mixture of cultures in a captivating atmosphere. There are only few cities in the world that can be so delightful to experience and enjoy as Istanbul.

Istanbul offers an unforgettable experience for its travelers, with its colorful daily city life and dynamic nightlife. The beautiful silhouette of the city combines historical sites and monuments such as Roman aqueducts, Byzantine churches, Venetian towers, Ottoman palaces from the Byzantine, Ottoman and Turkish periods. And the skyline covers monumental minarets with skyscrapers and plazas. And especially the  Historical Peninsula  and the  Bosphorus  will make you deeply fall in love with the city…

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See more of Istanbul with our guides to Istanbul’s popular districts, neighborhoods and areas. Experience and explore Istanbul just like a local, with hidden gems, favorite haunts, and top tips from our expert local ( TR ) guides.

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Use our guides to find out the medical and health tourism opportunities in Istanbul including hair transplant, cosmetic and aesthetic operations, rhinoplasty, Botox & dermal fillers, bariatric surgery, laser eye surgery, full medical check-ups, dental implants and many more.

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More Istanbul Trip Ideas for you…

Planning your Istanbul trip? Whether you’re looking for things to do in Istanbul such as attractions, sights, festivals and events, key traveler information to make your Istanbul visit run smoothly, you’ll find everything you need for your Istanbul travel on istanbeautiful.com. Make sure to discover Istanbul’s diverse neighborhoods, from tranquil suburbs to central areas full of shopping, entertainment and dining options, as well as property options in the city.

Discover the best day trips from Istanbul or try one of the best Istanbul tours. If you’re here as a family, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Istanbul with kids. Whether you’re looking for the best weekend breaks in Istanbul or planning a longer holiday in Istanbul, you can be sure you’ll find all the information you need.

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THE ULTIMATE ISTANBUL TRAVEL GUIDE – WHERE TO GO

Venture to Turkey with The Asia Collective’s ultimate Istanbul travel guide to explore everything the buzzing metropolis has to offer – from vibrant rooftop bars and luxury hotels, to quaint alleyways, cobblestone streets and wonderful historical sites.

Istanbul is truly a city where you can see modernity sprouting from century-old surrounds, with local hipsters enjoying piccolo lattes from hole in the wall historical buildings. Keep on reading our extensive Istanbul travel guide to reveal the best the vibrant city has to offer – from the 20 must-do’s and the most relaxing hammams to the best hotels, restaurants and cafés you cannot miss when staying in this colourful city!

ISTANBUL TRAVEL GUIDE – 20 MUST DOS IN ISTANBUL

Trendy istanbul – galata & karakoy area.

A great place to start your trip in Istanbul – Europe’s largest city – is the Galata Tower, conveniently hoisted on a hillside with a great vantage point to see all sides of the Bosphorus including, Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, Spice Bazaar, the dense residential zone and CBD downtown area and across the Bosphorus to the Asian side of Turkey.

While the Galata Tower itself is a historical site well worth seeing, the 1,500-year-old lighthouse offers a 360-degree vantage point ideal for anyone to plot their itinerary.

Istanbul Travel Guide: Here are the must-visit tips in the city’s coolest Galata and Karakoy neighbourhoods.

1. DRINK TURKISH COFFEE.  Right in the heart of Istanbul, you can find Mandabatmaz serving the best of this traditional and aromatic drink that will get you through the day of exploration. As the Turkish proverb deems it to be, coffee at Mandabatmaz is black as hell, strong as death, and sweet as love.

2. HAVE TURKISH BREAKFAST.  Take your time when waking in the morning, like many European cities, Istanbul’s cafes and restaurants start the day at a relaxed pace. A walk around Galata’s trendy hillside cobblestone streets is a must, and search for Privato Café , a quaint alleyway restaurant with cozy surrounds serving one of the best traditional Turkish breakfasts in Istanbul. 

3. VISIT THE GALATA TOWER.  After breakfast, beat the crowds and head up to the Galata Tower to take in the breathtaking views. The sunset is also great from the tower, however, the popularity often causes large crowds and queuing, so find one of the many other vantage points on offer in the city.

4. STROLL ALONG  ISTIKLAL AVENUE AND TAKE HISTORIC TRAM .  Start at Taksim Square and walk along the elegant Istiklal Avenue to discover a range of boutique shops such as bookstores, patisseries, cafes, and art galleries. From there, you can make your way to the mid-14th century Galata Tower by taking the historical tram to Karaköy stop.

5. GO SHOPPING IN ISTANBUL’S TRENDIEST NEIGHGBOURHOOD .  Take a walk down the hill into the Karaköy neighbourhood and discover the hip boutiques, vintage shopping laneways, and trendy cafes for lunch such as Karabatak Cafe .

6. TRY A TURKISH HAMMAM.  Have a Turkish bath at the famous Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami in Karakoy. Nestled alongside a beautiful mosque in a great neighbourhood this particular bathhouse follows the traditional customs of segregating by gender, in the mornings for women and afternoon into the evenings for men, so try and time it according to the company you are travelling with. If you have separate timings your spouse will be more than happy in one of the trendy cafe’s or browsing the Istanbul Modern Art Museum .  

7. EAT A KEBAB.  Dodge the tourist traps and head to Zubeyir Ocakbasisi  for an authentic kebab experience – think tender barbecued meat cooked to perfection paired with fresh vegetables, cozy ambience and friendly staff. A classic meal to whet your appetite.

THE OLD ISTANBUL – SULTANAHMET AREA

Known as the historical Old Town of Istanbul, Sultanahmet will take you for a journey back in time. Rich from all the city’s most ancient treasur es, it is recommended to those venturing here to not only visit the historical sites and shop at the bazaars but to take time to sit back and reflect its beauty f rom the comfort of some of the coolest rooftop bars.

Istanbul Travel Guide: Here’s the must-visit tips in the city’s oldest Sultanahmet neighbourhood.

8. WALK ACROSS GALATA BRIDGE . Step into the old district of Istanbul with a walk via the Galata Bridge, spanning across the Golden Horn and connecting the old city with Beyoglu. The view at Galata Bridge is best during sunset where the pink sky serves as a stunning backdrop to the city.  

9. VISIT THE SPICE BAZAAR .  One of the largest bazaars in the city, the Spice Bazaar offers endless stalls of unique spices, Turkish delights, cheap souvenirs, dried fruits and nuts. Even if you’re not one to shop for spices, stroll through to experience the hustle and bustle of vendors, aromatic scent of spices in the air, and vibrant colours of the bazaar.  

10. VISIT HAGIA SOPHIA  &  BLUE MOSQUE .  In the city where East meets West, Istanbul is home to The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia both conveniently located within walking distance of one another. Arrive early before the crowd kicks in to witness the juxtaposition of an impressive mosque representing the eastern world, and a just as stunning church of Hagia Sophia, a treasure from the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

11. TAKE AN UNDERGROUND JOURNEY TO BASILICA CISTERN .   Take a journey underground to the ‘Indiana Jones-esque’ Basilica Cistern, which has been the site for many famed Hollywood films. This historical underground treasure is the largest surviving cistern in Istanbul, with stone columns, ancient carvings and statues dating as far back as year 532. 

12. GO RUG SHOPPING AT THE GRAND BAZAAR .  Get lost wandering through the colourful labyrinth of The Grand Bazaar, located in the heart of Istanbul’s Old City. Here you can shop and haggle for a traditional Turkish rug, oriental pillows, hanging lamps and many more!

13. HAVE A SUNDOWNER AT A’YA ROOFTOP LOUNGE .  Have a drink at A’YA Rooftop Lounge at Four Seasons Sultanahmet to enjoy the incredible views of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus in stylish surroundings. This is the prime location to watch the stars slowly emerge over Istanbul whilst enjoying a refreshing cocktail or two.   

14. STROLL THROUGH TOPKAPI PALACE .  What once was the residence of Ottoman sultans in the 15th century, Topkapi Palace is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site open to those looking to soak in some history. Magnificent gardens overlooking Bosphorus topped with precious relics, Topkapi Palace will transport you immediately to the heydays of the sultan empire.

15. SMOKE A SHISHA & DRINK TURKISH TEA AT CORLULU ALI PASA .  Time stands still in this 300-year-old Medrese known as Çorlulu Ali Paşa. A short walk from the Beyazit stop, you’ll find wafting aromas of fruity shisha and Turkish tea, low wooden chairs and hanging lanterns at Çorlulu Ali Paşa. A favourite among old and young locals, Çorlulu Ali Paşa is the place to go for an authentic experience.

MODERN ISTANBUL – ORTAKOY & BEBEK AREA

Wander between Ortakoy and Bebek and you’ll quickly find yourself in the upscale neighbourhood overlooking the sea. Bebek is considered one of the nicest neighbourhood of the Bosphorus, located on the European side of Istanbul. Witness seaside homes, fancy yachts, and plentiful of swanky restaurants to explore. Come here to take long walks and enjoy a lazy day.

Istanbul Travel Guide: Here are our must-visit Istanbul tips in the city’s modern Ortakoy and Bebek neighbourhood.

16. HAVE SUNDAY BRUNCH AT RAFFLES ISTANBUL .   Famous for Sunday Brunch with a difference, no culinary expense is spared with Raffles’s Mediterranean cuisine with a Turkish influence, including seafood and sushi offerings, fresh prawns, crab and lobster, as well as cold meats, dips and cheeses and hidden desserts room a mouth-watering selection of sweet delights. The must-haves include the injectable chocolate and vanilla eclair. Raffles attracts a well-heeled crowd on Sundays, creating a vibrant and trendy atmosphere as Veuve Clicquot Champagne dazzles the room.

17. TAKE A BOSPHORUS BOAT CRUISE.  Hop on a Bosphorus boat cruise for 90 minutes to get wonderful views of the city’s amazing landmarks, including Dolmabahce Palace and Ortakoy Mosque , as well taking a look into the rich and famous waterside mansions further up the river. A return ticket should cost no more than 15 Turkish Liras.

18. VISIT ARNAVUTKOY.   Move over Karakoy, Arnavutköy (between Bebek and Ortakoy) is quickly making a name for itself as the next cool-place-to-be. Originally a casual local hang out for fish restaurants with Bosphorus views, Arnavutköy is now attracting the city’s trendsetters with stylish restaurants and bars opening up along the waterfront. We recommend  The Hudson  for quality casual bites downstairs or fine dining upstairs and  Any Restaurant  for NYE/London city vibes.

19. VISIT ORTAKOY MOSQUE.  With the Bosphorus Bridge standing in the background overlooking the waterside, the Ortakoy Mosque is set in the most picturesque spot. This Baroque styled mosque features large windows for natural light to flow in, creating a surreal atmosphere. The Ortakoy Mosque is best admired with a coffee in hand from The House Cafe located nearby.

20. DEVOUR TURKISH STREET FOOD KUMPIR AT ORTAKOY.  Hands down Ortaköy is THE place to indulge in this delightfully savoury local Turkish dish. Stroll along cobblestone path of Ortaköy to find a row of kumpir stalls for your choice. Fluffy baked potatoes stuffed with butter, grated cheese, topped with an array of fillings that are not your typical choices. Pickled red cabbage, sliced sausage, black olives, garlic yogurt sauce are just among the few examples. Get creative with mixing and matching your favourite toppings for a hearty treat!

5 BEST RESTAURANTS IN ISTANBUL

Cecconi’s.

Address: Evliya Çelebi Mahallesi, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:56, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Opening Hours : Tuesday to Saturday, 6pm-12am / Sunday, 11am-4pm; 6pm-10pm / Closed Mondays Instagram : @cecconisistanbul

With worldwide locations, Italian fine dining restaurant Cecconi’s is not to be missed in Istanbul. Set in an airy courtyard of a 19th century Palazzo Corpi Building with lush surroundings and chic interior, Cecconi’s features a selection of hand-made pasta, seafood, cicchetti and dishes from Northern Italy using only the best ingredients. Spacious open kitchen with bar and relaxed atmosphere, Cecconi’s is the best location for an Italian fare with friends. The brunch, only available on Sundays, is not be missed either! 

MEZE BY LEMON TREE

Address: Asmalı Mescit Mahallesi, Meşrutiyet Cd. 83/B, 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Opening Hours: Daily, 6pm-11pm

Based on the Turkish dish “Meze”, which are small appetizers of various vegetables, seafood and meat served along raki or wine, Meze by Lemon Tree brings a twist on this traditional cuisine. With a variety of cold and warm meze, mains and desserts, Meze by Lemon Tree boasts diverse flavours and ingredients reflecting the culture and history of Turkish cuisine that will be sure to please your palate. Set in a cozy and simple atmosphere, Meze by Lemon Tree is perfect for an intimate dinner with your loved ones.

KARAKOY LOKANTASI

Address:  Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mh., Kemankeş Cd. 3, A, 34425 Karaköy/Beyoğlu Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm-12am

Created with the concept of a traditional esnaf lokantasi with a stylish interior (think patterned tiles and spiral staircase) and friendly service, Karakoy Locantasi is a longtime favourite spot for Istanbulites in-the-know. Located in a narrow street close to the Bosphorus, Karaköy Lokantası is known for offering consistently-delicious Turkish cuisine at reasonable prices. Karaköy Lokantası’s homestyle dishes are what keeps the customers rolling, including the charred eggplants on the grill, tender morsels of slow-cooked lamb drizzled with red gravy. By nighttime, this place turns into a magical taverna.

ZUBEYIR OCAKBASI

Address: Şehit Muhtar Mahallesi, Bekar Sk. No:28, 34435 Beyoğlu Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm-12am

Head to Zubeyir Ocakbasi for a quick and authentic kebab experience- a must-have when in Istanbul! A big meal that will satisfy your tastebuds, Zubeyir Ocakbasi can be considered as the hidden gem in Taksim Square. Come here with room to try their dishes, from Turkish pizza to Lamb Shish, charcoal grilled vegetables and marinated onions. Don’t be surprised if you’re the only non-local here!

Address: İstinye Mahallesi, Bayır Çk. No:461, 34460 Sarıyer Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm-12am Instagram: @zumaistanbul

Award-winning London based restaurant Zuma has gloriously found its way to Istanbul. Located in the fashion district of the city, Zuma showcases modern Japanese cuisine that is famously authentic but not traditional. Trendy interior and stylish atmosphere do not disappoint at Zuma. Designed as sharing plates, each dish offers a variety of textures and bold flavours to please your tastebuds. Signature dishes such as Miso Marinated Black Cod and Japanese Rice Hotpot with Mushroom and Truffle will leave you wanting more.

BEST RESTAURANTS WITH A VIEW

Sunset grill & bar.

Address:  Kuruçeşme Mahallesi, Yol Sk. No:2, 34345 Ulus / Beşiktaş/Beşiktaş/İstanbul   Opening Hours:  Monday-Saturday, 12p-3pm for lunch; Daily from 7pm-12am for dinner Instagram: @sunsetgrillbar

Since its opening in the early 90s, Sunset Grill & Bar remains one of the top restaurants in Istanbul for fine dining paired with an unbeatable view of the Bosphorus, Bosphorus Bridge and Asian shoreline. Set in the upscale neighbourhood of Ulus, Sunset Grill & Bar is the perfect place for sunset drinks, followed by a delicious dinner of international selection.

The Sunset Grill & Bar’s proudly presents an extensive menu with a vast choice of specialties from Mediterranean, Turkish, and New Japanese cuisine. Thanks to Istanbul’s ever-evolving flow of diverse guests seen throughout the years, Sunset Grill & Bar caters carefully to its guests while keeping its dishes fresh and updated.

Feel at ease when choosing your dish, from the juicy selection of meats to grill to the exotic Sushi Bar, you can expect each dish to be perfected from award-winning chefs, ensuring a satisfied appetite!

360 ISTANBUL

Address:  Tomtom Mahallesi, Istiklal Cd No:8 D:163, 34433 Beyoğlu/Tepebaşı/Beyoğlu Opening Hours:  Daily, 12pm- 2am / Friday & Saturday, 12pm-4am Instagram: @360istanbul

Located in a trendy penthouse above on a 19th-century apartment building, 360 offers a spacious terrace with sweeping views of the city. You can enjoy a fabulous Turkish wine or cocktail while gazing out to the Bosphorus Strait from 360. Grab your friends for a dining experience that brings a twist on the modern Turkish meze fused with international cuisine. From sharing mezes such as Bulgar Beef Tartar made in sushi style, to legendary main courses including the Pulled Lamb Tandir or Lobster Arrabiatta Pasta, 360 has it all.

When the weekend arrives, the restaurant is transformed into a hip club called Club360, bringing live DJs, vocalists, dancers, and good vibes!

5.KAT RESTAURANT

Address:  Cihangir Mahallesi, Soğancı Sk. No:7, 34427 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Opening Hours:  Monday-Thursday, 10am-1am / Friday-Sunday, 11:30am-2:30am

Step into the “5th Floor Restaurant”, also known as 5.kat, for a unique adventure of art, taste, and style. Since its opening in 1993, 5.kat has seen its fair share of unique parties, unforgettable concerts, cultural events and notable artists past through its doors. With an unbeatable view of little red rooftops of Istanbul and the Bosphorus Strait, 5.kat boasts impeccable service and exquisite dishes. For over two decades, 5.kat stays true to its young and artistic soul and continues to be one of the most special places in Istanbul. 5.kat offers a range of simple and fresh dishes both western and local, such as its mouthwatering Homemade Ravioli or the special 5.kat Shaslip Kebap.

Sit back in the 5.kat patio (you can ask for blankets if it gets too chilly) with your loved one with a glass of wine, followed by a delectable meal paired with a stellar view for a romantic and cozy experience. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Address:  The Marmara Pera,  Meşrutiyet Caddesi 15,  34430, Beyoğlu, İstanbul Opening Hours: Daily, 6pm-2am Instagram: @themarmarahotels

At Mikla, expect to enjoy stellar dishes with a mesmerizing view over the Gold Horn and Old City. Created by renowned, award-winning Chef Mehmet Gürs, Mikla was voted best restaurant in Istanbul right after its opening in 2005 and has made into the “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” 51st-100th list in 2015. Mikla prides themselves in carefully sourcing the best ingredients in Istanbul and all around Turkey while transforming ingredients into humble dishes reflecting the tradition and land in which it was found. A selection of Turkish dishes, fresh seafood such as Seabass and Prawns or opt or some melt-in-your-mouth Braised Lamb or Beef Rib Steak. Feeling adventurous and hungry? Try their impressive 7-course tasting menu (with superb wine pairing) for a gastronomic journey to a happy belly!

BANYAN RESTAURANT

Address:  Muallim Naci Caddesi, Salhane Sokak, No.3 Ortaköy Opening Hours: Daily, 2pm-1am

Located on the top floor of a historical building in the heart of the bustling Ortaköy Iskelesi lies Banyan, serving flavourful Asian fusion cuisine unique to the city. Their motto, “food for the soul,” brings hearty Asian dishes made with healthy ingredients. Seabass wrapped in a banana leaf, Sichuan pepper steak, Asian beef, chicken. Duck satays served on mini charcoal bbq, and a variety of steamed Chinese ‘Dim Sums’ are some of their most loved. From the top of the restaurant, you can enjoy live jazz at sunset overlooking the fishing village of Ortaköy.

Simple pleasures of homestyle cooking, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly staff make Banyan one of the best places to enjoy a night out with friends or loved ones.

LEB-I DERYA

Address:  Kumbaracı Yokuşu, Kumbaracı İş Hanı, No: 57/6 Tünel, Beyoğlu İstanbul Opening Hours:  Daily, 4pm-1am

Serving innovative international dishes with modern twists on some Turkish classics, Leb-i Derya is the hip and happening place to be. Step into the restaurant and you’ll find a mixture of glass walls and wood furnishings complementing the space to create a contemporary atmosphere. Amazing dishes include Beef Carpaccio or choose from a series of meze options to start. Dive into the main course with delicious meats such as the Lamb Shish with plums, and seafood selection.

With a stunning view and a collection of mouthwatering cocktails and internationally-selected wine list, delicious menu, Leb-i Derya remains a favourite spot for the young and hip crowds.

5 BEST CAFES IN ISTANBUL

Cafe privato.

Address:  Şahkulu Mahallesi, Galata Galip Cad., Tımarcı Sok. 3/B, 34420 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Opening Hours:  Daily, 8:30am-11pm

Cozy space, friendly staff, and one of the best spot for breakfast – it doesn’t get any better than Cafe Privato. Hidden in a small street near the Galata, Cafe Privato offers wholesome village breakfast, also known as Köy Kahvaltısı, is considered to be the best in Istanbul. Gözleme (spinach stuffed savoury pancakes) grilled halloumi cheese, and a selection of homemade jams awaits for locals and tourists with a big appetite.

Also open for lunch and dinner serving up homestyle Turkish, Italian and Georgian dishes with a view of the Galata Tower, Cafe Privato is a must visit place in Istanbul.  

Address: Kuruçeşme Mahallesi, Muallim Naci Cd. 64/B, 34330 Beşiktaş/İstanbul Opening Hours: Daily, 9am-11:30pm

With white interior, cobblestone walls and seafront views, you may think you’re in Greece at Assk Kahve. “Aşşk” is a Word derived from “Aşk” which means “love” in Turkish, and you may agree to fall quickly in love with this cafe. With two locations in Istanbul, the most popular being the Kuruçeşme branch, resembling a relaxed and stylish beachside home. Serving a range of tasty dishes ranging from homemade bread, pastries, cakes, cookies, granola, egg dishes, pasta, and so much more, Kahve is the perfect place for a casual and stylish Sunday brunch!

THE HOUSE CAFE ORTAKOY

Address:  Salhane Sokak No: 1 Ortaköy İstanbul Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-1am Instagram: @thehousecafe

Located along the Bosphorus, The House Cafe is a trendy restaurant popular among the local crowd of stylish Istanbulites. The menu hosts a variety of both local Turkish and international dishes ideal for large groups with a mix of appetite, available for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Colourful and fresh dishes are constantly updated at The House Cafe, creating an ideal taste for all visitors alike. In the summer, expect bumping music and an exciting atmosphere with live DJ performances on the weekends on the terrace!

DELICATESSEN

Address:  Mim Kemal Öke Cad. No. 19 Nişantaşı Opening Hours:  Daily, 8am-1am Instagram: @delicatessenist

Placed in the stylish neighbourhood of Nişantaşı, you’ll find a two-storey restaurant serving Turkish and international cuisine at Delicatessen. Charcuterie, cheese, seafood platters, eggs benedict, sandwiches & toasts, canapés to start or share, and a range of meats, pasta and seafood for mains can be enjoyed at Delicatessen, paired with a smooth glass of wine to complete a hearty meal. Check out their own special line of glass, wooden, and ceramic accessories including cheese plates, jars and other containers, and pasta moulds which make for perfect gifts and souvenir!

MANGERIE BEBEK

Address:  Cevdet Paşa Caddesi No.69 Bebek İstanbul, Türkiye Opening Hours:  Daily, 8am-12:30am

Tucked above a hairdresser salon in Bebek area, Mangerie is the perfect place to take it easy and spend the day with your friends while enjoying a nice view and delicious food. An airy space with the perfect amount of natural light shining through its large windows and white interior, Mangerie delivers amazing brunch to dinner bites, coffee to cocktails selection. Though brunch is by far their most popular time, head here for a drink in the afternoon sun after a day of exploring the area. You won’t regret it!

BEST HOTELS IN ISTANBUL

Budget: hotel sari konak.

Address:  Mimar Mehmet Ağa Cd. No:26, 00000 Fatih/İstanbul Check for Best Available Price Instagram: @hotelsarikonak

• Prices from approx. US$50 per night at Hotel Sari Konak.

MID-RANGE: GEORGES HOTEL GALATA

Address:  Müeyyedzade Mh., Serdar-i Ekrem Sokak No:24, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Check for Best Available Price Instagram: @georgeshotelgalata

A trendy boutique hotel in the Galata neighbourhood, Georges Hotel Galata offers award-winning experience within 5 minutes’ walk of Istiklal Avenue, the Galata Tower and the hip Karakoy neighbourhood. Located in a historical building, Georges Galata consists of a modern design and timeless glamour that is both comfortable and pleasing to the eye. You’ll find sea view rooms, balcony suites designed with stylish interiors such as black marble bathroom with blue mosaic tiles and clean white bedroom with Victorian accents. Guests can enjoy the laid-back rooftop bar with dreamy views of the city, or break a sweat with private yoga sessions available.

• Prices from approx. US$80 per night at Georges Hotel Galata.

BOUTIQUE: THE SOHO HOUSE

Address:  Evliya Çelebi Mahallesi, 34430 Beyoğlu/Istanbul Check for Best Available Price Instagram: @sohohouse

London-based design hotel group Soho House finds itself comfortably situated in the Beyoglu district of Istanbul. The Soho House Istanbul is considered the group’s most exciting project, built in a 19th-century palazzo with grand Corinthian columns and Carrara marble, finished with Turkish accents creating a contemporary style. All rooms of the hotel have king-size beds with Egyptian cotton sheets, Marshall speakers, minibar, and complimentary wifi. The best is yet to come, with the famed Cecconi’s as your dining option, a fully equipped gym and Cowshed spa with Traditional Hamam spa in case you decided to stay in.

• Prices from approx.  US$240 per night at The Soho House Istanbul.

LUXURY: FOUR SEASONS SULTANAHMET

Address: Tevkifhane Sokak No. 1, 34122 Sultanahmet-Eminönü/İstanbul  Check for Best Available Price Instagram: @fssultanahmet

Positioned in the heart of Sultanahmet, the Four Seasons Sultanahmet is a one-of-a-kind luxury hotel, that was formerly an Istanbul prison. As soon as you enter the Istanbul hotel you are in awe of its elegant furnishings and colourful Turkish interiors styled to perfection. In the middle is a stunning outdoor courtyard garden, that surrounds the hotel’s restaurant. It is a beautiful private sanctuary despite the hustle and bustle outside.

The rooms are equally impressive, a wonderful mix of old traditions with modern day comforts. Fall in love with its  2-storey suite with gorgeous furnishings complemented with colourful Turkish rugs.

The location is between the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, less than a 2-minute walk to each. The hotel’s gem is its rooftop terrace A’ya Rooftop Lounge, with 360 panorama views of the Bosphorus and city’s greatest monuments! Sitting on this rooftop allows you to feel like you are almost in the Mosques, listening to the Islamic prayer from the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque as they call back and forth to one another in a melodic rhythm. You are in the centre of the calls, and the experience is spine-chilling. Unforgettable! While the view at sunset is amazing, the prayer closer to 9pm is more mystical than the sunset chant.

• Prices from approx.  US$290 per night at The Four Seasons Sultanahmet.

BEST HAMMAMS IN ISTANBUL

Traditional: aga hamami.

Address:  Kuloğlu Mh., Turnacıbaşı Cd. No:48, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Opening Hours: Daily, 10am-10pm Bookings:  [email protected]

Aga Hamami is the oldest bath you’ll find in Turkey, dating back to the Ottoman Era in 1454. Transport back in time as you step into Aga Hamami, only to find a range of relaxing experiences awaiting behind its doors. Start with a powerful body scrub, also known as “kese” for the result of softer skin, followed by a foam bath that will melt all your worries away. It doesn’t end there! Continue your day of pampering with an oil massage and glowing face mask. The overall result? A relaxed, rejuvenated, and brand new you.

LUXE:  KILIC PASA HAMAMI

Address:  Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mahallesi, Hamam Sk. No:1, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-11:30pm Bookings:  [email protected]

From the stunning location and awe-inspiring interiors to a beautiful and relaxing treatment in the hot sauna room including, exfoliation, silky bubbles poured over your skin, gentle massage pressure and hot and iced cold buckets of water poured over your head. Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami is the Turkish spa experience giving sensations you’ve never had before. Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami is also the most popular Turkish bath aimed at tourists, in case you do not want to find yourself in a compromising situation with a naked masseuse scrubbing your body (the traditional way). Staff at Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami are friendly and professional, creating a memorable experience that will leave you floating above clouds for days.

Have you been to Istanbul, and want to share your favourite spots to add to our Istanbul Travel Guide?

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Istanbul   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Istanbul

Bridging East and West – Europe and Asia – Istanbul possesses a richly complicated heritage. Once the capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires, this city's prestigious history has left us with many monuments to cherish. Plus, it integrates its past and present to create a unique mix of architecture; a glass skyscraper next to a Byzantine church or a colorful bazaar in the shadow of a shopping mall. The natural landscape is also impressive. The Bosphorus, a narrow strait, cuts the city in two and connects the Sea of Marmara in the south to the Black Sea in the north. From the blue waters, visitors will see a skyline of domes, steeples and modern towers.

Although Istanbul looks serene from afar, the internal atmosphere is wonderfully chaotic. Discover the bustling streets and busy bazaar stalls that have characterized the city for hundreds of years. Drivers will jockey for position; shopkeepers will barter in an avalanche of chatter; and you'll be struggling to digest all of the sights, sounds and smells. Speaking of smells – during your exploration, smell and taste the distinctly Turkish treats off the streets, including döner , Istanbul's version of fast food. And when the sun goes down, you'll see that Istanbul sheds some of its conservative facade to reveal a thriving nightlife. At the intersection of civilizations and continents for centuries, Istanbul surprises visitors with its fast pace, its ancient history and its present culture.

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• # 6 in Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024
• # 11 in Best Places to Visit in November 2024
• # 11 in Best Cities in the World to Visit

Best of Istanbul

Best hotels in istanbul.

• # 1 in Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
• # 2 in Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
• # 3 in Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus

Best Things to Do in Istanbul

• # 1 in Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
• # 2 in Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Cami)
• # 3 in Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici)

Popular Tours

Bosphorus Night Cruise with Dinner, Show and Private Table

(548 reviews)

from $ 32.00

Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour

(4745 reviews)

from $ 200.00

Cappadocia Dream - 2 Days Cappadocia Travel with Balloon Ride from / to Istanbul

(159 reviews)

from $ 465.94

Istanbul Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Istanbul are from March to May and between September and November. That's when crowds at the city's attractions are manageable, room rates are average and daytime temperatures generally sit in the 60s and 70s. Peak season – from June to August – sees temps soar into the low 60s to low 80s, and accommodation prices increase to match the demand from incoming tourists. December through February, meanwhile, are the cheapest months to visit, but Istanbul's rainy, snowy and chilly conditions (temps are in the high 30s to high 50s) mean you'll have to don cold weather attire and lug an umbrella during your stay.

Weather in Istanbul

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Politeness is highly regarded here Many U.S. customs are different from those in Turkey. But, this one still applies: Be gracious, even if you don't understand what is going on.

Using Turkish goes a long way  Communicating with the locals can be difficult, although many Turks know at least some English. It is, however, best to try speaking Turkish first. Phrases such as " merhaba " (hello), " hosçakal " (goodbye) and " tesekkür ederim " (thank you) will come in handy.

Kid-friendly? Not so much If you have kids in tow, you might want to vacation elsewhere. Istanbul does not have much for children to do, and they will likely quickly tire of touring Byzantine architecture.

How to Save Money in Istanbul

Pay for items with Turkish lira  Vendors in tourist areas will accept dollars and euros as a form of payment, but you'll generally overpay when using these currencies, so use Turkish lira.

Buy a Museum Pass Istanbul card  Most of the city's museums have entrance fees of 200 to 700 Turkish lira (or about $14 to $25) per person. To save some coin, invest in a Museum Pass Istanbul card , which costs 2250 Turkish lira (about $80) for five days of access to attractions like the Topkapi Palace Museum  and the Istanbul Archaeological Museums .

Travel by ferry for Bosphorus cruises  Bosphorus excursions offered by private companies can cost up to 79 euros (more than $88) per person, so if you want to take in your surroundings from the water without burning a hole in your wallet, use Sehir Hatlari, the city's ferry operator. Tour tickets start at 65 Turkish lira (about $3).

Culture & Customs

Although Turkey is a secular state, the predominant religion is Islam, and travel writers generally characterize the country as conservative. During your stay, you might notice that practicing Muslims pray five times a day. During the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk.

Casual clothing is not unusual in more modern areas like Beyoglu, but women should cover their legs, shoulders and heads in more conservative neighborhoods like Fatih and inside mosques and other religious sites. Also, make sure to bring a scarf if you're visiting these places, though some offer ones to borrow.

In general, it is better and safer to travel accompanied by others. If you venture into the Grand Bazaar , keep a close eye on your belongings, as pickpockets are in no short supply here. And remember to be mindful of your surroundings at all times, especially at popular tourist attractions.

Rather than shaking their heads to say "no," Turks will throw their heads backward slightly and raise their eyebrows accompanied by a "tsk." When shaking hands, never offer your left hand, as it is considered rude and unclean. Also, point the soles of your feet away from others when sitting on the floor; doing otherwise is very offensive.

Turkish is the official language spoken in Turkey, and Turkish humor is a bit different from what you'll encounter in the United States. Extreme sarcasm should be avoided in conversation, as should discussions about political and religious views.

Visitors will also find that smoking is more socially acceptable here. Don't be surprised to see Turks taking frequent cigarette breaks during a meal.

Finally, the official currency here is the Turkish lira (1 Turkish lira is equal to about 4 cents). Some tourist locales will accept dollars or euros as a form of payment, but exchange rates are generally poor, so it's best to use Turkish lira at all times. Turkish lira to dollar rates often fluctuate, so check the latest exchange rate  before you go.

What to Eat

Turkish cuisine can best be described as a fusion of its seven regions (the Mediterranean, Aegean, Marmara, Black Sea, and Central, Southeastern and Eastern Anatolian), each of which has its own culinary identity shaped by its geography and multiethnic nature. In terms of cuisine, Istanbul is a microcosm of the entire country, with many different types of restaurants serving many different dishes.   

Some Istanbul staples include the simple esnaf restaurants, where classic homecooked dishes are made fresh daily and served cafeteria-style for lunch, including everything from meat stews and stuffed vegetable dishes accompanied by buttery rice or bulghur. There are fish restaurants that serve their freshest catch grilled and with a slice of lemon accompanied by a slew of meze (cold appetizers) that are either fish or vegetable based with plenty of olive oil. There are kebab restaurants where different meats are grilled in-house on a hooded charcoal barbecue. There are bakeries making sweet and savory pastries or dough-based specialties like lahmacun and pide (flatbreads with different toppings). There are the classic Istanbul meyhanes (taverns) serving meze and raki , the national licorice-flavored spirit made from the anise plant and mixed with water and ice. When the two liquids make contact, it forms a milky white color, giving the drink its nickname, aslan sütü  (lion's milk).

There are confectionary shops dating to the Ottoman period selling traditional treats such as baklava, lokum (Turkish delight) and akide  sekeri (hard candies with different flavors). Istanbul's street food includes pilafs, stuffed mussels, roasted chestnut or corn, simit (a ring-shaped bread covered in sesame), fish sandwiches, böreks (pastry made of thin layers of dough with different fillings) and dürüm (a wrap with döner – thinly sliced lamb meat from a spit). And then there are the contemporary restaurants (some boasting Michelin stars) that serve reinterpreted Turkish dishes accompanied by wines from the country's thriving boutique vineyards.

Classic Istanbul beverages include the ubiquitous Turkish tea, served hot in a tulip-shaped glass at the end of every meal or as a welcoming offering to guests. Turkish coffee is strong and is also enjoyed at the end of a meal with lokum , but make sure to not drink the grounds at the bottom of the cup. In the winter, there is boza , a drink made of fermented grains and served with cinnamon and leblebi (roasted chickpeas).

For the most authentic experience, avoid the Sultanahmet area. The tourist-heavy neighborhood's restaurants, in general, serve overpriced and mediocre food. Take a short trip on the tram north across the Golden Horn to Beyoglu, where you'll find a mix of simple home cooking, as well as some of the trendiest options in the city.

According to the U.S. State Department, travelers should exercise some caution when visiting Turkey, due to possible terrorist attacks. Tourist sites, major events, transportation hubs and popular locales (like restaurants and nightclubs) are most prone to terrorist attacks. Also, avoid protests, gatherings and demonstrations, and keep tabs on local news. Signing up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , which notifies the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate of your travels, is strongly advised. To learn more about security concerns and safety tips for Turkey, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Istanbul

The best ways to get around Istanbul are the buses and trams, which conveniently cover the touristy areas. But remember, buses don't have maps inside and drivers do not announce stops, so you'll need to remain vigilant and watch where you are going. The metro is also a reliable and cheap means of getting around; however, stops are farther apart and not as well-positioned for seeing the sights. When visiting Sultanahmet and Eminönü, walking between the area's attractions  is doable, but you'll need to rely on another mode of transportation to reach other neighborhoods. Driving is strongly discouraged because of heavy traffic and since road signs are in Turkish and accidents are fairly common. Ferries are also available to get to the Princes' Islands and between the European and Asian sides.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Even though Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia, you can travel freely between the two sides. To enter Turkey, you will need a passport that's valid for six months past your arrival date, as well as a visa. Visas cost $50 and are available on the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs website . The sticker visa (which is placed in your passport along with an official stamp) is valid for 90 days. To stay longer, contact a Turkish embassy or consulate to apply for a residence, work permit or Turkish ID card. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department's website . 

Named for its interior's blue tiles, the  Blue Mosque  is one of the city's most popular mosques to visit.

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Things To Do

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Traveling to Istanbul Soon & Need a Bit of Guidance?

What to Know Before Visiting Istanbul

Istanbul, although not being a capital, is one of the most famous and popular cities in Turkey . It is considered a cultural and commercial center of the country which is also a very special place with an endless list of things to do. Besides an amazing heritage of art, culture, history, and architecture Istanbul is also a culinary hub.

You can visit Istanbul on its own or when on a big trip around Turkey . 

But my main advice to you is not to be in a hurry. One or two days here is never enough. I recommend planning to spend at least five full days in Istanbul (if you can) and explore the city at a slower pace. During this time you will be able to visit all significant tourist attractions, see vibrant life on Asian and European sides, get acquainted with Turkish cuisine, and even venture to some lesser-known spots.

But if you don’t have that much time, I have plenty of resources to help you also plan a shorter trip, just browse through all the posts on this Istanbul travel blog page!

Istanbul Travel Tips & Istanbul Itineraries

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Travel resources for istanbul.

Check if you need a visa when traveling to Turkey (most passports get a visa on arrival, but you may need to arrange it in advance) Learn More

Travel Insurance

Do not leave home without insurance & take care of it before entering the country (as policy does not start immediately after purchase) Learn More

This is the website I use most of the time to rent a car in Turkey (see more of my tips on car hire below) Find a Car

Simcard for the phone to stay connected on your trip & have internet anywhere in the country Check Offers

Local Tours

I never miss a chance to go on a free tour in Turkey. And I often use this company for booking private tours

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Best of Istanbul

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Planning a trip to Istanbul ? If you want to know more about the impressive history of the city, how to get around , what to visit , which are the typical dishes served in Turkey, and many other first-hand tips and tricks that will help you plan your holiday. You'll find answers to all these questions and more in the guide to Istanbul.

Istanbul Travel Guide

• Information
• Top Attractions
• Getting to Istanbul
• Restaurants

Why Visit Istanbul?

Istanbul is one of the world's most visited cities and, having been the capital of three empires (the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman ), it's a city that no traveler should miss. Fall in love with the history of former Constantinople and its natural wonders, the Golden Horn and the Bosphoru s.

Chaotic and serene at the same time, with more than 15 million inhabitants , Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey. And each and every visitor is left astounded by a city on the crossroads of two continents: too Eastern to be European and too Western to be Asian.

A journey into the past itself, touring Istanbul, you'll find yourself in a historic and lively city between two seas , The Sea of Marmara and The Black Sea; between two continents , Europe and Asia, and between two worlds, the t raditional and the modern .

Visit the Hagia Sophia  and the Blue Mosque , sail the Bosphorus in a boat, browse the Grand Bazaar , and see the shadow of the splendor of the Ottoman Empire in the Topkapi Palace  is something every world traveler should do once.

Looking for Accommodation in Istanbul?

The earlier you reserve, the better discounts you can find. Discover the range of hotels in Istanbul with discounts of up to 75%.

Hotels in Istanbul - Reserve online with a guaranteed minimum price

top activities

Istanbul Bosphorus Boat Cruise On this cruise along the majestic Bosphorus Strait , you'll drift along Istanbul's main waterway and see the contrasts between the European & Asian sides .

A cruise along the Bosphorus is a must for every trip to Istanbul! We'll sail around the Golden Horn , the oldest quarter in this Turkish city .

Topkapi Palace Ticket With this skip-the-line ticket to the Topkapi Palace, you'll discover all about one of the highlights of Istanbul . An absolute must-see!

Ticket to the Hagia Sophia Museum If you're in Istanbul, you can't miss the Hagia Sophia History Museum . Immerse yourself in a world of architectural and cultural marvels .

Istanbul Free Tour Admire the exterior architecture of opulent mosques and discover the amazing history of Istanbul with this guided tour. Plus, it's free!

Istanbul Tour: Bosphorus Cruise, Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Join us in Istanbul for a  Bosphorus cruise  and to visit the renowned Blue Mosque , marvel at the timeless beauty of Hagia Sophia , & tour the Spice Bazaar.

Bosphorus Night Cruise + Dinner & Show Enjoy breathtaking views of Istanbul from the Bosphorus as the sun sets, enjoying an exquisite dinner and traditional Turkish music and dancing .

Bosphorus and Black Sea Cruise Cruise along the Bosphorus and see landmarks including Galata Tower and Bosphorus Bridge. When you get to the Black Sea, take a swim and enjoy lunch on board.

Basilica Cistern Guided Tour On this tour of the  Basilica Cistern , we'll visit this  authentic gem in Istanbul and see how its columns store water. Welcome to the  Submerged Palace !

Hagia Sophia Skip-The-Line Tour This  skip-the-line tour of Hagia Sophia is ideal for discovering all the details of one of Istanbul's star monuments. A must to learn about the city's history!

Whirling Dervish Show The Sufi whirling, also known as Sama, is one of Turkey's best-known and most inspiring ceremonies. This 800-year old tradition is a personal and mystic voyage.

Istanbul Tourist Bus The Istanbul sightseeing bus is the best way to discover this magnificent city. Hop on and off at any of the stops to explore at your own pace.

Princes' Islands Full-Day Tour Immerse yourself in the history of Istanbul and the Ottoman dynasty on a full-day cruise to two of the Princes’ Islands: Kinaliada and Buyukada .

Cappadocia 4-Day Tour On this 4-day tour to Cappadocia from Istanbul we'll pass through Ankara, Saratli, Uçhisar and the Goreme Valley , the jewels of Turkey .

Rhythm of the Dance Show Delve into Turkish culture through its folk music and dance , enjoying a show of traditional dances, belly dancing and live music. A truly memorable experience!

7 Day Turkey Classics Tour Discover Classical Turkey on a seven-day trip from Istanbul and explore its fascinating historic cities: Ankara, Pamukkale, Ephesus , and more.

​ Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Suleymaniye Mosque . On this tour of the mosques of Istanbul , we'll visit some of its  most important religious landmarks .

Cappadocia, Pamukkale and Ephesus 6-Day Trip Set off on a 6-day trip from Istanbul to Ankara  and visit other historical cities including Saratli, Uçhisar, Göreme, Konya, Pamukkale and Ephesus .

Private Tour of Istanbul Explore the vibrant city of Istanbul on a private tour and choose which landmarks, museums and neighborhoods you want to visit.

Bosphorus Sunset Luxury Yacht Cruise Enjoy the romantic landscapes of the   Istanbul sunset with this luxury cruise down the Bosphorus Strait. Unforgettable views await!

Istanbul Mosques & Palaces Tour On this tour of the mosques and palaces of Istanbul , we'll discover Ottoman architecture masterpieces and see emblematic buildings such as the Hagia Sophia!

Istanbul E-pass Can't decide which monuments to see in Istanbul? Get the Istanbul E-pass and enjoy free entry to more than 60 attractions for 2, 3, 5, or 7 days!

On this guided bus tour of Istanbul, we'll visit the city's most important places and enter the Topkapi Palace . Don't miss out!

Cappadocia One Day Trip by Plane This one-day tour is ideal if you wish to discover the best areas of the historical region of Cappadocia if you are only in Istanbul for a few days.

In this pub crawl in Istanbul , we'll experience a wild night in the capital of Turkey as we let ourselves be swept away by the beat of the music.

Istanbul Asian Side Tour + Beylerbeyi Palace Cross the Bosphorus Bridge and explore the easternmost part of Istanbul with us on this tour of the city's Asian side. Let's go!

Private Yacht Cruise on the Bosphorus On this private yacht cruise on the Bosphorus Strait , you'll be able to admire the beauty of Istanbul and see its iconic monuments while sunbathing in style!

Turkish Lamp Workshop If you're in Istanbul , don't miss out on this Turkish lamp-making workshop ! Learn how to craft  one of Turkey's most popular traditional handicrafts .

Turkish Bath + Massage At DoubleTree by Hilton Indulge in a lavish experience with a Turkish bath and   bubble massage  at the exclusive DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul Spa .

Turkish Coffee Workshop Uncover the historic ritual of preparing traditional Turkish coffee in this exciting coffee workshop in Istanbul , and learn the secrets of this iconic drink.

On this food tour of Istanbul , we'll sample delicious traditional Turkish dishes as we explore this breathtaking city. You'll adore this Turkish cuisine.

On this tour to Sapanca Lake and Masukiye, we'll get away from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul to enjoy nature and do a variety of cool activities!

Tour of the Galata District In this tour of Galata , we'll discover this district in the European part of Istanbul, which was separated from ancient Constantinople by the Golden Horn.

Hierapolis & Pamukkale Day Trip Visit the holiday destination for the Empire's nobles with this Hierapolis & Pamukkale Day Trip. You'll also stroll through the cotton castle of Pamukkale.

Bursa Excursion Do you know what the first capital of the Ottoman Empire was ? We'll learn about its firey history on this trip to Bursa  from Istanbul!

Belly Dance Show + Dinner Wondering what to do in Istanbul? Feel the magic of the sensual belly dance and enjoy a Turkish folk performance with this spectacle, including a complete dinne

Troy Day Trip On this  day trip to Troy from Istanbul , we'll uncover the secrets of this  ancient city which mixes reality with mythology . You'll love it!

Cistern Basilica & Blue Mosque Tour + Hagia Sophia or Topkapi Palace On this tour of the Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern , we'll discover the history of two of the most iconic monuments in Istanbul . You'll love it!

Princes' Islands Ferry Sail the waters of the  Sea of Marmara on this ferry to   the Princes' Islands . In just one day, discover this  beautiful archipelago from Istanbul .

2-Day Trip to Cappadocia by Plane On this  2-day trip to Cappadocia ,   you'll fly from Istanbul to one of  Turkey's most famous sites ,   which you will no doubt absolutely adore!

Blue Mosque Guided Tour With this guided visit to the Blue Mosque , we'll get to know its secrets and sacred spaces throughout Istanbul . Join us for a deep dive into the city's history !

Golden Horn Boat Trip + Tour of Fanar On this tour, we'll visit the Greek quarter of Fanar , take the cable car up to Pierre Loti Hill and take a boat trip on the Golden Horn .

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the First World War in Turkey with this essential day trip to the Gallipoli battlefields .

Dolmabahçe Palace Guided Tour Enjoy a guided tour of the Dolmabahçe Palace during your stay in Istanbul. Explore one of the most opulent European-style palaces along the Bosphorus ,

Mustafapaşa, Sobessos + Soğanli Valley Tour On this excursion to Mustafapaşa, Sobessos & Soğanli Valley, you'll travel back in time to discover Roman and Greek ruins and rock-hewn monasteries .

Istanbul Segway Tour Enjoy a fun ride on this segway tour through Istanbul while visiting the city's biggest attractions, like Topkapi Palace ,  Süleymaniye Mosque , and Hagia Sophia !

Beylerbeyi Palace & Eyup District Tour Discover the Asian side of Istanbul on this half-day tour. Cross the Bosphorus Bridge and visit the beautiful Beylerbeyi Palace , followed by a tour of Eyup.

Immerse yourself in Turkish culture and experience a Turkish bath in Istanbul ! Unwind and relax at the Cagaloglu Hammam , a lavish spa in the city center .

Istanbul Airport Shuttle Bus to Taksim & Aksaray Are you travelling to Istanbul ? With this  bus service from Istanbul Airport to Taksim or Aksaray , you'll get to your destination quickly and conveniently!

Your Istanbul guide

Our Istanbul guide has been created by travellers like you , to help you when planning your trip, and making the most of your time while saving money. The information and data here were updated in February 2024.

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Spread across two continents and between two seas, Istanbul is a city of empires past. The Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Galata Tower are just some of the many historic structures scattered throughout the city. Sip a Turkish tea as you float between Europe and Asia on a ferry and watch the palaces, mansions, and modern museums pass by. —Katie Nadworny

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Home » Middle East » Turkey » Istanbul

Istanbul Travel Guide – Visit Cheaply in 2024!

Istanbul should be on the top of everyone’s travel bucket list. This is one of the most fascinating, authentic, and thrilling places that I have ever visited over the course of my traveling career and I get excited every time I think about returning here. But if we’re being honest right now, Istanbul is not always an easy city to visit. It’s big, hectic, and hard to crack into sometimes. Some people can visit Istanbul without ever having really experienced anything there aside from some popular tourist attractions and the way-to-touristy Grand Bazaar.

With this Istanbul travel guide, it is my goal to make the city more accessible and easier to visit. We’ll talk about where to go, what to see, where to stay, and much, much more. Istanbul deserves a bit more attention than some other cities out there but the extra effort is doubly rewarded.

So join me as I revisit this amazing place and walk through all of its twisting alleyways and historic neighborhoods. By the time we’re finished here, you should know exactly what to do when you travel to Istanbul yourself.

How Much Does Visiting Istanbul Cost?

Backpacker accommodation in istanbul, what to do in istanbul, a 3-day sample itinerary for istanbul, istanbul travel guide – extra tips and tricks, eating in istanbul – the best food and restaurants, some final thoughts from this istanbul travel guide….

By Western standards, Istanbul is a pretty budget-friendly place. Accommodation in Istanbul is about half of what you’d find in most major European cities, food ranges from cheap to dirt cheap, and getting around is always affordable with public transport. Visiting Istanbul on a budget should be no problem, even for those who are more budget-conscious.

A lower, backpacker daily budget for Istanbul will be around $25-$30/day. This will get you a dorm bed, groceries, beer money, and some extra cash to visit some attractions around the city.

Refer below for a brief breakdown of what to expect when planning a trip to Istanbul:

• Lodging – Hostels in Istanbul are cheap – a good one should cost around $10-$15/night. If you have a little extra to spend, Airbnbs in Istanbul are still affordable and, from my experience, very comfortable to stay in.
• Transportation – Public transport in Istanbul is also cheap. Prices range depending on the type of transit you are taking and the distance, but you can expect to pay around $1/trip. Riding public transport may take a while though (it’s particularly inefficient here). Taxis are better for getting around Istanbul but are more expensive. 2020 rates are 0.5 euro per km + start rates.
• Food – Depends on how you want to live. If you want to eat at upscale restaurants in Istanbul, expenses add up quickly. If you want to save money on food, there are many ways. Street kebabs are always cheap and grocery stores/markets are ubiquitous. Budget visitors to Turkey often plumb for street meat.
• Drinking – Booze is a bit more expensive in Istanbul relative to food. Beer can be found for as low as $2 but it’s more likely to be sold for standard Western prices i.e. $5 for a glass of beer or wine, $7 for a cocktail, etc.

Average Costs of a Trip to Istanbul

Here’s a breakdown of individual costs when formulating a daily budget in Istanbul:

Hostel Dormitory: $10-$15

Basic hotel room for two: $60-$80

Airbnb/temp apartment: $40-$60

Average cost of public transport: $1-$2/ride

City-Airport transfer: $2-$30

Doner Kebab: $1-$2

Beer at a bar: $2-$3

Coffee: $2-$3

Bottle of wine from the market: $10

Dinner for two: $10-$20

Istanbul Travel Guide – Budget Tips

• Eat doner kebabs: They only cost a couple of dollars on the street.
• VISIT ISTANBUL NOW : As of January 2020, the Turkish economy is in bad shape and the value of the lira is very low. You’ll get a great exchange rate if you have dollars or euros.
• Cook your own food: It’s backpacking 101! Cooking at the hostel or apartment is always cheaper than going out for a full meal. Rice and vegetables are your best friends as a backpacker.
• Haggle, haggle, HAGGLE : Any price that a shop owner tells you in the bazaars is about double what it actually should be. Never ever accept the first price when bartering for something – start at a third and work your way up. If you don’t know when it’s ok to barter, it’s usually done when prices aren’t listed. If you have to ask the seller how much something is, you’re bartering already.
• Don’t sleep in Sultanahmet or near Taksim Square: For the best prices on accommodation, stay in the more outer districts, like Fener or Kadikoy. There are great Airbnb options in Istanbul that will keep the costs low as well.
• Account for airport transfer expenses : Unless you want to spend an hour or two on the bus, you’ll most likely have to take a taxi from the airport. They aren’t cheap.
• If you want to drink, pre-fade at your place first : Paying full price at the bar is never the cheapest option. Get a buzz on first before heading out. NOTE that as of 2018, Istanbul has banned drinking in public so be sure to FINISH your drinks before leaving.
• Have a water bottle: Don’t waste money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap.

Why You Should Travel to Istanbul with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

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Right off the bat, I’m going to tell you that there is no ultra-convenient or perfect place to stay in Istanbul. The city is just too damn big, too damn busy, and too damn amazing to fit in a single neighborhood or district. Make no mistake: there are a lot of options when it comes to lodging in Istanbul.

Sultanahmet is probably the first area in Istanbul that everyone is going to look at for lodging. It hosts most of the city’s most iconic landmarks, like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, and is not too far away from the city center. Staying in Sultanahmet will be pricey though.

If you want to stay somewhere more traditional and local, consider Fener and neighboring Balat . They’re both listed on UNESCO and are practically open-air museums. The tall and narrow apartments that define the neighborhood are really cool to stay in as well.

One of my favorite places to stay in Istanbul is Galata . It’s slightly better connected to the rest of the city, has some great cafes nearby, and is pretty too. Istiklal Street is very close by as well.

If you really want to experience a different side of Istanbul, consider staying across the Bosphorus in the Kadikoy area. You will see a fraction of the tourists and will get to enjoy what many are calling “the new hot neighborhood in Istanbul.”

The Best Places to Stay in Istanbul

Are you wondering  which is the best part of Istanbul to stay in?  Well, let me give you a few suggestions.

Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is the historic and cultural heart of Istanbul. It’s the oldest part of the city and is surrounded by bodies of water to the north, east and south, and old city walls to the west.

Located north of the Sultanahmet district, Beyoglu is one of the liveliest districts in Istanbul and our top recommendation for where to stay for those on a budget. Home to the popular pedestrianized Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue), this district attracts locals and tourists day and night.

Galata is a neighbourhood located north of the Golden Horn. Although technically part of the Beyoglu district, this neighbourhood has a distinct feel and flair.

Karaköy is a small district situated at the mouth of the Golden Horn. Once one of the city’s most important ports, this area was left to deteriorate for decades.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is a colourful and chaotic district located in the centre of Istanbul. Built around the centuries-old Grand and Spice Bazaars, this area is where you’ll find a wide variety of vendors, shops and boutiques. Grand Bazaar is our top recommendation of where to stay in Istanbul for families.

With a Istanbul City Pass , you can experience the best of Istanbul at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

No Istanbul travel guide would be complete without talking about the must-do things in the city ! Here are some of my favorite:

1. Wonder at the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of the single most impressive structures in the world – a wondrous achievement of human and religious endeavors. Once a basilica during the Byzantine era turned mosque when the Ottomans came, the Hagia Sophia is at the center of many people’s hearts. It is not to be missed.

2. Have a night out in Beyoglu

This is ground zero for the best nightlife in Istanbul. Whether you like raucous nightclubs, chill cafes, or hidden pubs in alleyways, there’s something for everyone in Beyoglu.

3. Explore the Asian side of Istanbul

The Asian side of Istanbul, the Anatolian side, could be considered a completely different city to visit. Vastly more local, way less chaos (except for rush hour traffic), and not without its own charms. This is where people go to discover the real Istanbul. Kadikoy and Moda are the most interesting neighborhoods in the area.

4. Go to a real Turkish bath (if you dare)

It’s not for everyone but Turkish baths certainly an interesting experience. More contortion and joint-cracking than relaxation and soothing at times, Turkish hammams are not for the faint-hearted. If you can make it through one though, you may just feel a bit younger (or a bit violated). Note that Turkish hammams are always separated by gender.

5. Get lost in history

Istanbul has changed hands more than a few times. First, it was a Greek settlement, then it was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, and after that, it was conquered by the Ottomans. This city has seen more than enough history over the course of its existence and nowadays it is practically an ark unto itself. Be sure to explore local heritage sites like the Chora Museum, the Greek Orthodox College, Rumeli Fortress and everything in between.

6. Enjoy the cafe culture of Galata

The best part about staying in Galata was the mornings. I could wake up, walk outside and within 100 square meters, there were a dozen awesome cafes. A long morning spent sampling Turkish pastries is time well spent.

7. Shop til you drop

A lot of people spend a weekend in Istanbul just so they can go shopping. This city appeals to just about every kind of shopper imaginable: trinketry, upscale, souvenir shopping, fashion; if it exists, you can probably find it in Istanbul.

8. Discover the many cool neighborhoods of Istanbul

Istanbul is not lacking for neighborhoods. There are at least 36 different districts in Istanbul and each of those has between 15-25 mahalle or neighborhoods in themselves. That’s a lot.

Whilst you may not get to see them all, I still suggest doing a little exploring. Go for a venture in the historic Balat neighborhood of Fatih or the up and coming Karakoy in Begolyu. You never know what you might find.

9. Watch the fishermen at Galata Bridge

This is one of those ultra-touristy things to do in Istanbul that is also super endearing. There’s just something about watching local fishermen stand there and wait potentially all day long for a catch. It’s one of the few tranquil spaces in the city and a nice way to break from the chaos.

10. Walk along the Bosphorus

Bosphorus is one of the defining aspects of Istanbul. For natives, it is a source of prosperity, greater well-being, and pride. For tourists, it’s a great way to get to know the city. Take a walk along the Bosphorus, visiting the many sites and districts along the way, and you will learn more about Istanbul than in any museum or textbook.

Three days in Istanbul should be the bare minimum when you visit; there’s so much to do here that you’ll already be limited on time. To help you use your time most wisely, here is a sample itinerary for y’all to enjoy!

Day 1 in Istanbul: Sultanahmet

You’ve probably just arrived and could potentially be jet-lagged. The best way to beat the lag I say is to just hit the ground running!

On the first day of our Istanbul trip, we’re going to be getting the touristy stuff out of the way first. That means heading straight for the Old City or Sultanahmet where most of Istanbul’s top attractions are.

Morning: After checking into your hotel in Istanbul, get a daypack ready  (pack a light lunch) and head to the nearest cafe. You’ll need a good breakfast and a stiff Turkish coffee for what we have in-store today.

Early-Afternoon: Start off with a leisurely stroll through Topkapi Palace. It’s mostly open-air and you won’t be stuck inside stuffy rooms too much. Find a nice place to sit when you’re ready and have that snack you packed.

Late-Afternoon: Next, make for the Hagia Sophia. This is, without question, the most beautiful landmark in Istanbul. Afterwards, head across the square to the Blue Mosque (note prayer times).

Evening: Head west towards the Grand Bazaar, stopping by the Basilica Cistern if you have time. I wouldn’t spend too much time in the Grand Bazaar itself – it’s a bit of a tourist trap. Just stop for a snack and a glass of mint tea. Our ultimate goal is the Suleymaniye Mosque where we will get to see the sunset.

Night: Time to find some food. If you stay in Sultanahmet, you will pay more money for worse food. There are much better selections across the Golden Horn around Galata and Ortokoy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try dropping by the local neighborhood of Fener.

UPDATE: The “ famous hidden viewpoint of Istanbul ” is currently closed as the roof is being renovated. There is a super cozy cafe in the building though that is probably my favorite in the city.

Day 2 in Istanbul: New Istanbul

Going to be another long day folks! Today we are sticking to the northern side of the Golden Horn, which is the “newer” part of town.

Morning: Grab a coffee and pastry in the Galata district. The medieval, Genovese tower is the most striking (and unmissable attraction) but the local cafes are just as noteworthy. They’re all super quaint and quite good.

Early-Afternoon: Head north and make for Istiklal Street. This is one of the main throughways in the city and is lined with shops and opulent arcades, like the Çiçek Pasaji. If you’re hungry, duck into one of the alleys for an early lunch – these alleys are packed with restaurants and bars.

Late-Afternoon: Keeping walking until you’ve reached Taksim Square and then keep going. Taksim Square is the official center of the city but doesn’t offer too much in the way of attractions. Instead, make for the Dolmabahçe Palace. You can pay to enter the palace if you like (the antechamber is amazing) or see the gate and mosque from the outside for free.

Evening: Find the nearest tram stop and head north towards Ortakoy. The local mosque is quite famous for its Baroque design and the neighborhood itself is well-known for its trendy bars and restaurants. This would be a great place to have dinner and some drinks.

Night: If you’re in the mood for partying, I’d say stick around Ortakoy or head back to the alleys of Istiklal Street. Otherwise, the cafes of Galata make for a relatively relaxing evening. Stay out as long as you want

Why are there so many cats in Istanbul? Some claim that it’s because a heroic cat saved the Prophet Muhammad’s life . Others say that it is because old Ottoman architecture was prone to infestation , so felines were introduced to hunt rats, pests, etc. Either way, cats are much loved in this city and are regular citizens in the eyes of the locals.

Day 3 in Istanbul: The Asian Side

To be honest, this part of Istanbul deserves its own itinerary. One could easily spend another couple of days here on top of what we’ve already talked about but, alas, for the sake of brevity, we can only talk about it in a day’s span.

Morning: There are two ways to travel across the Bosphorus: by bridge or by ferry. The ferry is the preferable choice. There are lots of ferry terminals in Sultanahmet and Karakoy – make sure you grab a ferry to Kadikoy on the Asian side. Also, be on the lookout for the iconic Maiden’s Tower in the Bosphorus.

Early-Afternoon: Kadikoy is one of the most popular districts in Istanbul at the moment. When you depart the ferry (assuming you got on the one to Kadikoy) you will be closest to the Moda neighborhood. There are lots of parks here as well as some good cafes to get you going. The views of Sultanahmet are also excellent.

Late-Afternoon: I’d recommend making a detour to Beylerbeyi Palace to spend some time here and along the Bosphorus. It will require you to use a taxi though as public transport is very bad in this part of the city. If this seems like a hassle, keep exploring Kadikoy. Go for a walk on Baghdad Avenue and grab some lunch in one of the many shady European cafes.

Evening: I highly recommend venturing out to Camlica Hill to catch the sunset as this park offers, without a doubt, the best views of Istanbul. There are also many places to go for walks or hikes in Istanbul in Kadikoy, this is just one of them!

Night: Grab some dinner and drinks in Kadikoy and then head back to your hotel in Istanbul when ready. Tomorrow we’re leaving 🙁

Want some more ideas? Check out this alternative itinerary for Istanbul!

Day Trips from Istanbul

As if Istanbul wasn’t big enough, there’s, even more, to do outside the city! If you’re spending more than 3 days in Istanbul, consider adding on one of these day trips from Istanbul :

• The Princes’ Islands – A popular day trip for those looking to escape the noise of the city. Beaches, bike rides, and charming coastal towns are all in abundance. Büyükada is the largest and most frequented island. Ferries to the island leave frequently from Kabatas Terminal in Istanbul.
• Edirne – One of Turkey’s stranger yet most respected sports is the ancient art of oil wrestling , which is exactly what it sounds like. One of the most important oil wrestling tournaments in Turkey is held in Edirne in late-June. If you’re backpacking in Istanbul around then, you shouldn’t pass this up. Only the slipperiest will survive to be crowned champion!
• Bursa – This is a great spot if you’re looking for sparser crowds and some more outdoor activities. Bursa, which was the original capital of the Ottoman Empire, has many notable attractions, like the Grand Mosque, the Green Mosque, and the very cool 600-year-old Inkaya tree. Don’t skip on eating at the Darüzziyafe either. Skiers should also know that nearby Uludag is considered the best ski resort in Turkey.
• Troy – Although it would be a very long trip from Istanbul, it is still possible to see the old ruins of Troy in a day. I will say right now that the ruins are not nearly as epic as some of Turkey’s other archaeological sites (or the movie for that matter), but they’re still humbling if you’re into the classics. The actual ruins are located in Tevfikiye near Canakkale.

Learn more about what to expect when visiting Istanbul by reading the following sections!

Best Time of Year to Visit Istanbul

The weather in Istanbul really throws me for a loop every time I visit. For some reason or another, I’m just never prepared for it. When I expect it to be pleasant, it’s humid as hell and hot. When I hope that it’s going to be balmy, it rains sideways and the wind comes howling down from the Black Sea.

That being said, there is no real bad time to be in Istanbul. The weather is surprising, yes, but I wouldn’t call it extreme except in the summer.

Istanbul is subject to four distinct seasons:

• Summers in Istanbul can be notoriously hot. Humidity can be oppressive and there seem to be few places of respite. Ask a local where you can cool off and they’ll probably point you to a pile of baking-hot boulders on the edge of the Bosphorus.
• Autumn is a very nice time of year to visit Istanbul. Temps are moderate although the rain does start to pick up a bit. I’d say that October is probably the best month of the year to be here.
• Winters in Istanbul are surprisingly frigid. Snow is not uncommon during this time of the year and the wind from the Bosphorus can really go to the bone. Also, Istanbul receives more rain than infamously grey cities like London and Brussels, which is not something that many people were aware of I think. Thankfully, nearly every hawker sells umbrellas.
• Springtime is a decent time to travel to Istanbul. The weather is pleasant again, albeit foggy at times. It can still rain quite a bit and snow can even occur in March. Also, take into consideration Ramadan. Though the city is generally secular, there are still plenty of Muslims in Istanbul that observes it.

Getting In and Out of Istanbul

I don’t think that I’ve ever visited a city with so many airports. At one point in time, there were three airports in Istanbul. Recently, one was closed so now there are only two in use: Sabiha and Istanbul International. FYI – you can take a transit tour from Istanbul airport if you have a layover there.

Sabiha is the oldest airport in Istanbul and probably the most frustrating to use. It’s located clear on the other side of the river on the edge of the Anatolian side of the city. It will take you at least an hour to get here from Istanbul proper by car and that is if the traffic is ok. There are direct buses to and from Sabiha but they will take even longer than a private transfer. Also, the airport just looks like a dystopian nightmare.

Note that if you’re flying low-cost domestically, chances are you’ll use Sabiha.

Istanbul International is the newest airport in town and was subject to quite a lot of media hype. It is what you’d expect from a modern airport: cavernous, sterile, and very commercial. If you’re commuting through this airport, be aware that it may take a lot of time to walk from gate to gate.

Getting to Istanbul International from the city isn’t much more pleasant than Sabiha. Buses and taxis are still the only options and commute times are going to be about the same: 45 minutes by car, 90 minutes by bus. (Oh how I miss the glory days of Ataturk Airport…)

For those who have flown into Istanbul internationally in the past, chances are you probably used the old airport, Ataturk. Ataturk was a nice airport and was relatively easy to get to, being only 20 or so minutes away from Sultanahmet. Alas, it is now completely closed down. Rest in peace Ataturk.

How to Get Around Istanbul

Istanbul is absolutely enormous. With over 15 million people , it is the most populous city in continental Europe and one of the top three in terms of land area. Getting around Istanbul will be a challenge but, with some savvy, you’ll still be able to see most of the top attractions.

There’s actually quite a lot of public transport in Istanbul. There are copious buses, a metro system, ferries across the Bosphorus, and street trams which are somewhat iconic of the city. If you get a good grasp on how these work, Istanbul will be at your beck and call.

The problem is that public transport is a bit cryptic at first. Signage is poor and routes are usually written in Turkish. Luckily, most transit is available to see on Google Maps. If I were you, I’d be sure to have a SIM card and to be connected as much as possible when trying to navigate.

To save some cash, I’d suggest buying an Istanbulkart. The way they’re set up is a little confusing (ticket prices go down the more you use it) but if you’re going to spend more than two days in Istanbul, you’ll end up saving money with one of these.

Due to its size, I highly recommend picking one part of Istanbul and sticking to it. You’d have to spend at least a week in Istanbul to see the entire city, both the European and Asian sides. Doing so in any less time would be nothing short of a herculean feat.

At the end of the day, taking a taxi is still the easiest way to get around. The local taxi app is called BiTaksi . My experiences with BiTaksi are mixed but they’re still much better than Uber. Uber in Istanbul is horrendous and overpriced.

Safety in Istanbul

Istanbul is a very large and very dynamic city. Life is accelerated, the streets are jam-packed with people, and everyone is just trying to get by. I like to say that, in Istanbul, chaos is served in the morning like a stiff cup of coffee and by that I mean it’s a necessary part of starting the day.

It is important to keep your wits about you when backpacking in Istanbul. Pickpockets will be active, scammers will be everywhere, and violence is not unheard of. To go into detail about each and every potential pitfall in the city would take a bit of time to thoroughly explain, so I’ll instead direct you to our Istanbul safety article and give the following advice:

Common sense and attentiveness are the surest ways to avoid trouble, no matter where you are. The easiest way to get out of a bad situation is to avoid it altogether. If shit looks sketch, then it probably is. Be cautious and aware of what’s going on around and trust your gut.

Be particularly cautious of scammers in Istanbul. Seriously, there are some very clever people in this city and they are very good at getting money out of unsuspecting tourists. The old “shoe shiner drops his brush and placates you with a sad story” is one of the oldest in the books. To avoid scams, keep an eye for overly-friendly people and situations that seem slightly “off.”

On a more political note, Istanbul and Turkey are often the recipients of bad press. Reports of corruption, economic collapse, and extremism are all normal it seems these days. It is important to remember that being a victim of something like terrorism is extremely rare. In reality, you’re more likely to be a victim of the petty crime mentioned earlier.

Travel Insurance for Istanbul

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Tips for Saving Money on Accommodation in Istanbul

Sometimes you need your own roof above your head – we know the feeling. Other times, you’re doing everything you can save a nickel and dime.

If you’re trying to cut the costs of travel when backpacking Istanbul, then maybe it’s time to stay somewhere besides a hostel or apartment. If you need to save money, try one of these:

Couchsurf! – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on cash when it comes to accommodation since most of the time you’re crashing for free. Staying with a local host is also a great chance to experience a more authentic side of the city and to visit hidden Istanbul.

Problem is Couchsurfing is really popular (duh, it’s free) and demand often outstrips supply. Hosts are picky as well so you’ll need to impress them with an eye-catching message. Definitely try Couchsurfing but be ready to be rejected.

Tap into your backpacker network – You never know when you have a friend in a foreign city! If you’ve traveled a lot, you may have met someone from Istanbul or know someone who knows someone.

Reach out to people! Ask to stay with people for a night or two in exchange for cooking dinner or a bottle of wine. If you don’t know anyone in the city, ask your friends if they do – travelers understand the struggle and are usually more helpful than you think.

Camping – Urban camping is a growing trend in many cities. These campsites are comfortable, sociable, safe, and cheap. They are often located on the outskirts of town, which means they are quieter too. Research to see if Istanbul has any and be sure to bring your own tent too!

Some Extra Free Things to Do in Istanbul

Looking to visit Istanbul on a budget? Consider one of these free activities in the city and save some cash!

• Certain mosques – Some of the finest mosques in Istanbul cost nothing to visit. The Blue Mosque, Zeyrek Camii, and Suleymaniye Mosque are all examples. You can enter some of these even if you aren’t a Muslim. Just be sure to visit outside of prayer hours.
• The bazaars – While I still think that the Grand Bazaar is a bit touristy, it is still a good way to kill time. You certainly won’t be lacking for stimulation or shop owners trying to win your attention. The Egyptian Bazaar is a good alternative (but still busy) and there’s an open-air market at Ortakoy on Sundays.
• Free museums – Some of the most prestigious museums in Istanbul offer free admission either on certain days or are always free regardless of the day of the week! Be sure to check out the official websites of the Elgiz Museum, Istanbul Modern, Dogancay, and Pera Museum to learn about free entry.
• The old walls of Constantinople – History buffs and Age of Empire fanatics will be happy to hear that some of the old Theodosian Walls still stand in Istanbul. There’s a good 500 meter stretch of wall near the Palace of the Porphyrogenitus that you can walk on if you like.
• Zülfaris Synagogue – Or the Quincentennial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews is free to enter for the public.
• Free walking tours of Istanbul – A good stroll is all it takes to become acquainted with a neighborhood; Istanbul has lots to choose from as well! Fener and Balat are popular areas to explore and one should definitely consider walking along the Bosphorus as well, particularly the bit between Ortokoy and Rumeli.

Books to Read Before Visiting Istanbul

If you need a little extra info to supplement our Istanbul travel guide, try reading one of these books on the city!

• The Bastard of Istanbul – An American-Armenian seeks to learn about her past and ends up living in Istanbul. Revelations of horrific events in the past will eventually reveal themselves.
• The Architect’s Apprentice – An exceptional animal tamer joins the inner Ottoman courts and takes an apprenticeship under the Sultan’s top architect.
• Istanbul: Memories and the City – From the immensely influential Turkish writer, Orhan Pamuk, this is a love letter to the city that raised him.
• The Time Regulation Institute – A surreal and somewhat dystopian commentary on the bureaucratic state of modern Turkey. Told from the perspective of Hayri Irdal as he interacts with the various characters that work at the Time Regulation Institute.
• The Janissary Tree – The first novel in Jason Goodwin’s Investigator Yashim series. This is Sherlock Holmes in Ottoman Istanbul.

The dining scene in Istanbul can be hit and miss depending on your food preferences. If you like grilled meats and lots of grains, you’ll be in your element. If you like lighter fare and/or you are a vegetarian, you will probably struggle in Istanbul.

The overwhelming majority of restaurants in Istanbul serve the best of Turkish food . This means kebabs , mezze , hearty vegetables, dolmas , pastries; things that make you want to crawl into a ball and fall into a food coma. In particular, carnivores will very much enjoy visiting Istanbul as just about everything is either roasted or grilled over an open fire.

If you don’t care for Turkish food, it’s going to be rough. Though there are some very good international restaurants in Istanbul, they are few and far in-between. Most of them are around the newer parts of town, around Taksim and Galata. DON’T stay in Sultanahmet if you want something other than Turkish food.

When visiting a Turkish restaurant, you should expect a typical European experience. You’re shown to a table, a waiter takes your order, food comes, etc, etc. Tipping is usually expected in Turkey, especially in finer venues. 5-10% should be fine.

If you’re backpacking in Istanbul on a budget, skip the restaurants. Instead, head to a food cart or a local lokanta , which is kind of like a blue-collar tavern with less drinking. Simit is a popular grab-n-go breakfast item and balik-ekmek (fish sandwich) is a local favorite. Who could pass up on ordering one of the most legendary dirtbag dishes either: the doner .

Nightlife in Istanbul

Istanbul is not Medina; it is not a bastion of religious conservatism that completely shuns the sins of the flesh. No, Istanbul loves to party.

You can find all of the usual suspects in Istanbul. Beer is common and the local favorite is Efes. Raki (an anis-based liqueur) is the official spirit of Turkey and is often served after dinner with some ice. Turkish wine ain’t too shabby either and ranges from fruity, red Karasakiz to floral, white Narince .

The epicenter of Istanbul nightlife is Beyoglu. Clubs, DJ sets, and live music venues all pump out some serious soundwaves here, the aftershocks of which are usually felt long into the morning. Most of these joints are hidden in the alleyways adjoining Istiklal Street.

The alleyways of Beyoglu can be really fun to wander around at night. Each has its own crowd, which makes them feel like little neighborhoods unto themselves. After a few drinks, it can be very easy to get lost in these though.

Generally speaking, the closer you get to Taksim Square, the more upscale the bars become. Further along, Ortakoy is also quite well known for its glamorous bars and clubs.

I personally enjoyed the nighttime vibes around Galata Tower. There were mostly lowkey cafes around this area, which was a nice respite after hectic days of exploring Istanbul. Note that the establishments directly next to the Galata Tower are busier and more touristy. You have to walk a bit to find diamonds-in-the rough, like Smyrna Art Cafe.

If you want to get high, then hash is relatively easy to find. Don’t buy it yourself – enlist the help of a local you trust. Averages prices are $5-$10 for a gram.

Visiting Istanbul may not always be easy, but is still easy to love this city. This is one of the most dynamic, storied, and thrilling cities in Europe to visit. I’ve been there several times and I’m always finding something new to do there on top of visiting superlatives like the Hagia Sophia.

Istanbul can be a bit of a mess at times; with its dynamism also comes chaos, speed, and a general sense of stupor. Those backpacking in Istanbul for the first time may feel a little lost in the beginning, but with this guide in hand, the city will be much more accessible. Istanbul is one of my favorite cities in the world, a feeling that I hope wasn’t lost over the course of the article, and I want others to experience it as I do.

Istanbul is just the beginning. Turkey is an amazing country and deserves to be explored as well. Once you’ve wrapped up the Turkish capital, be sure to make plans to see the likes of Cappadocia, the Turquoise Coast, and Mt Ararat. You won’t regret it

Before wrapping up this Istanbul travel guide, there are a few more matters that I want to discuss regarding responsibility and potentially staying in Istanbul long term. Please take a moment to consider these things.

Volunteering in Istanbul

Long term travel is awesome. Giving back is awesome too. For backpackers looking to travel long-term on a budget in Istanbul whilst making a real impact on local communities look no further than Worldpackers . Worldpackers is an excellent platform  connecting travelers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world.

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

Backpackers can spend long periods of time volunteering in an awesome place without spending any money. Meaningful life and travel experiences are rooted in stepping out of your comfort zone and into the world of a purposeful project.

Worldpackers opens the doors for work opportunities in hostels, homestays, NGOs, and eco-projects around the world. We’ve tried and approved them ourselves – check out our Worldpackers in-depth review here.

If you’re ready to create a life-changing travel experience and give back to the community, join the Worldpacker community now. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Make Money Online While Backpacking in Istanbul

Traveling in Austria long-term? Keen to make some cash when you are not exploring the country?

Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection.

Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills!

It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start  teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online,  TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on  teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with  MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Being a Responsible Traveler in Istanbul

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in landfill or in the ocean. Instead, pack a  tough travel water bottle .

Go and watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix – it’ll change how you view the plastic problem in the world; you need to understand what we are up against. If you think it doesn’t matter, get off my fucking site.

Don’t pick up single-use plastic bags, you’re a backpacker – take your daypack if you need to go to the shop or run errands.

Bear in mind, that many animal products in countries you travel through will not be ethically farmed and won’t be of the highest quality. I’m a carnivore but when I’m on the road, I only eat chicken. Mass-farming of cows etc leads to the rainforest being cut down – which is obviously a huge problem.

Need more guidance? – Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

Visiting Istanbul will bring you ample opportunities to participate in debauchery, and it is very important to have fun, let loose, and get a bit wild at times. Most trips I have been on across the world have included at least a few mornings where I wake up knowing I went too far.

But there are some things that will put you in the category of a straight-up jackass if you do them. Being super loud and obnoxious in a tiny hostel at 3 AM is a classic rookie mistake. Everyone in the hostel will hate you when you wake them up. Show your fellow travelers respect whilst traveling in Istanbul and anywhere else for that matter!

Istanbul is a beautiful place that has touched countless people, so let’s not mistreat it. It clearly inspired the makers of this video, which, not gonna lie, has made me cry (only) a few times.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Hello, Ralph. You put interesting information in this article.

But I had a bad experience in Istanbul and I don’t recommend a trip to this city.

I landed on the night of 10/17/2022 at Istanbul Airport (IST). Before the flight, I purchased a transfer service through Booking.com for the transfer from the airport to the hotel, for 32 pounds sterling.

Upon arrival at the airport, I did not meet the driver at the agreed location (exit 13) and spoke with a driver who was there. I showed him the name and phone number of the person who was supposed to pick me up. He called then and on the other end of the line someone impersonated the driver who was supposed to pick me up, saying that there was a mistake and that I should make the ride with the one I had found. A price of 3590.00 Turkish Lira was placed and payment would be accepted by credit card. As I was very tired, it was late at night and I didn’t know the rate of the Turkish lira, I accepted it. On leaving the airport, the local called a colleague to accompany the trip.

On the way, they stopped at the first ATM and I was forced to withdraw the money. At that moment, I saw that it was a coup and that my life was in danger. Upon arriving at the hotel, I took a photo of the license plate and asked the receptionists for help. I couldn’t sleep that night. The next morning I went to the tourist police station. I told the policeman what had happened and he only said that he would contact the owner of the vehicle and talk to him about returning the money.

On the night of 10/19/2022, a representative of the vehicle owner went to the hotel and the hotel manager brokered the contact and negotiation. The two, representative and manager, said it would only fit me 85.00 euros as there would be fees to cover. I paid the equivalent of 225.00 euros for the criminal race and received only 85 euros at the end. No policial report was registered. I was coerced and robbed. This is all completely absurd. Crime and impunity prevail there. Uber doesn’t work in the city and the hotel manager said there is a big mafia in car transport at Istanbul airport.

I hired a guide for a walking tour of the historic center, but he didn’t show up. I paid for a laundry at the hotel to deliver clean and ironed clothes but they only delivered clean ones. They always try to overcharge you for anything. It’s really annoying that you have to keep checking and confirming things all the time. You cannot trust.

People are not friendly and polite like in other places. The food is not that attractive and delicious.

Anyway… What would have been a few days of tour and resting has become a very negative experience.

Tourism is done with transparency, honesty and trust. I left Istanbul sad and very disappointed. I don’t recommend this city and Turkey to anyone. There are certainly better options.

Things like this can happen anywhere and are not specific to Turkey, however this is a good reminder to travellers of things to look out for.

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Istanbul Travel Guide, Turkey

Last Updated on January 31, 2024

A Guide to the Great City of Istanbul

This historic city has been a major crossroads between East and West since it was founded in 660 BC by the Greeks. Constantinople, as it was formerly known, was the  Byzantine  capital until 1453 when Sultan Mehmet II overtook the city and it became the capital of the  Ottoman  Empire. It's a place where the ancient past meets the modern world in an explosion of color and culture.  As Napoleon once said, “If the world was only one country, Istanbul would be its capital!”

Today Istanbul is a thriving cosmopolitan city of more than 15 million people with plenty of things to see and do. There are countless museums and historical sites to visit as well as shopping districts and markets where you can buy anything from antiques to local crafts.

The city is full of architectural marvels, from mosques to palaces to houses built centuries ago that still stand today.  The main square in Sultanahmet is full of fascinating sites and landmarks like the  Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofia)  and the  Blue Mosque . Nearby  Topkapi Palace  is rich with Ottoman history.

The  Grand Bazaar  is a labyrinthine market that has been around since the 15th Century. It's home to hundreds of shops  selling everything  from jewelry, and leather goods, to ceramics, and of course Turkish rugs.  Shopping  here is truly an adventure. Within the bazaar you’ll find the  Egyptian Bazaar , fragrant with the many spices it sells, as well as  Turkish delight  ( lokum ) and souvenirs. Have an expert join you on your  shopping tour .

Across the  Golden Horn , you’ll find  Taksim Square ,  Istiklal Caddesi , and  Galata Tower .

Tours & Activities

You can see Istanbul's top sights in a rush on an  overnight stay , but you'll need at least 2 days to do them justice, and  3 or 4 days  to really get a sense of the city. In a  week , you can get a good look at most of what Istanbul has to offer and even get a taste of destinations outside of the city. Istanbul offers activities that are  family-friendly . You might even consider  booking a tour  to help make the most of your time here.

Transportation

Istanbul is well-connected by a dizzying combination of  buses ,  trams ,  funicular ,  ferries ,  taxis , and more. First-time visitors to the city should  use caution  when taking taxis as they are infamous for price gouging. For a stress-free experience, we recommend  booking a private transfer .

Most of the major attractions are located in  Sultanahmet  district and  hotels here  are convenient for tourists due to their proximity to major tourist sites. Another popular district is  Beyoğlu  which is near  Galata Tower  and  Taksim Square .  It’s possible to stay in a  hostel ,  apartment , or  Ottoman inn .

Top Experiences

After visiting the major sites, there is still plenty to do! You might want to take a  Bosphorus cruise  or an excursion to the  Princes' Islands  or nearby  beaches . You can even relax in a Turkish bath ( hamam ) of which there are many  in Istanbul .

It’s also possible to do a day trip to the cities of  Edirne ,  İznik  (Nicaea) or  Bursa ,  Gallipoli , and  Troy , or even  Ephesus  or  Cappadocia .

But before you go, be sure to take some time to just sit at a sidewalk café and sip  Turkish tea  or  coffee , or smoke a  nargile (water pipe) . Dine on savory  Turkish cuisine  in an excellent  Istanbul restaurant , consume a traditional  fish sandwich  by the Golden Horn, and you'll realize why it's my favorite city in all the world.

-by  Tom Brosnahan , updated by  Kimberly Price

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Uniquely among the world’s cities, Istanbul stands astride two continents, Europe and Asia. As if its spectacular geographical location were not enough, it can also boast of being the only city to have played capital to consecutive Christian and Islamic empires, a role that has shaped the region’s history for more than 2500 years and bequeathed to Istanbul a staggering wealth of attractions; these range from the masterpiece Byzantine church of Haghia Sophia (Aya Sofya) to the formidable city walls, and the domes and minarets of the Ottoman mosques and palaces that dominate the city skyline. Although no longer its capital, the city remains the vibrant economic, cultural and intellectual heart of modern Turkey, a bustling, go-ahead city where east really does meet west.

Arts, entertainment and festivals

The bosphorus cruise, city danger watch, i̇stanbul festivals, july/august, october/november, the land walls, the northwest quarter, the princes’ islands.

In conservative districts such as Fatih, bearded men sporting skullcaps and baggy shalwar -style trousers devoutly heed the call to prayer, while women wouldn’t dream of leaving the house with their heads uncovered. Yet across the water, the tidal wave of humanity sweeping down İstiklal Caddesi (Independence Street) includes young Turkish men and women in designer jeans and trainers who have rarely ever been to a mosque. In business districts such as Şişli, commuters arrive via the metro to work in high-rise office blocks, shop in state-of-the-art malls, and at weekends can be out clubbing until 6am.

Whether yours is the Istanbul of the Blue Mosque and the Topkapı Palace , or the Beyoğlu nightclubs and swish rooftop cocktail bars, the city takes time to get to know. Three to four days is enough to see the major historical sights in Sultanahmet and take a ferry trip on the Bosphorus . But plan on staying in Istanbul a week, or even two, if you want to fully explore the backstreets of the old city and the outlying suburbs and islands.

Brief history

In 2008, while digging the Yenikapı metro station, archeologists uncovered a Neolithic settlement dating back to circa 6500 BC. In popular tradition, however, the city was founded in the seventh century BC by Byzas , from Megara in Greece – hence the original name of Byzantium . Over the next thousand years, Byzantium became an important centre of trade and commerce, though not until the early fourth century AD did it reach the zenith of its wealth, power and prestige. For more than 350 years, it had been part of the Roman province of Asia. On Diocletian’s retirement in 305, Licinius and Constantine fought for control of the empire. Constantine finally defeated his rival on the hills above Chrysopolis (Üsküdar) and chose Byzantium as the site for the new capital of the Roman Empire in 330 BC. The hilly promontory, commanding the Bosphorus and easily defensible on its landward side, was a superb choice. It was also well placed for access to the troublesome frontiers of both Europe and the Persian Empire.

In 395, the division of the Roman Empire between the two sons of Theodosius I left what was now named Constantinople as capital of the eastern part of the empire. It rapidly developed its own distinctive character, dissociating itself from Rome and adopting the Greek language and Christianity . Long and successful government was interrupted briefly, in Justinian’s reign, by the Nika riots in 532. Half a century later, however, the dissolution of the Byzantine Empire had begun, as waves of Persians, Avars and Slavs attacked from the east and north. The empire was overrun by Arab invaders in the seventh and eighth centuries, and by Bulgars in the ninth and tenth. Only the city walls saved Constantinople, and even these could not keep out the Crusaders , who breached the sea walls in 1204 and sacked the city.

As the Byzantine Empire declined, the Ottoman Empire expanded. The Ottomans established first Bursa, then Edirne, as their capital, and Ottoman territory effectively surrounded the city long before it was taken. In 1453, Mehmet II (the Conqueror) – also known as Fatih Sultan Mehmet – besieged the city, which fell after seven weeks. Following the capture and subsequent pillage, Mehmet II began to rebuild the city, starting with a new palace and continuing with the Mosque of the Conqueror (Fatih Camii) and many smaller complexes. Tolerant of other religions, Mehmet actively encouraged Greek and Armenian Christians to take up residence in the city. His successor Beyazıt II continued this policy, settling Jewish refugees from Spain into the city in an attempt to improve the economy.

In the century following the Conquest, the victory was reinforced by the reign of Süleyman the Magnificent (1520–66), “the Lawgiver” and greatest of all Ottoman leaders. His attempted conquest of Europe was only thwarted at the gates of Vienna, and the wealth gained in his military conquests funded the work of Mimar Sinan , the finest Ottoman architect.

A century after the death of Süleyman, the empire began to show signs of decay. Territorial losses abroad combined with corruption at home, which insinuated its way into the very heart of the empire, Topkapı Palace itself. Newly crowned sultans emerged, often insane, from the institution known as the Cage, while others spent time in the harem rather than on the battlefield, consorting with women who increasingly became involved in grand-scale political intrigue.

As Ottoman territory was lost to the West, succeeding sultans became interested in Western institutional models. A short-lived parliament of 1876 was dissolved after a year by Abdülhamit II, but the forces of reform led to his deposition in 1909. The end of World War I saw Istanbul occupied by Allied troops as the victors procrastinated over how best to manage the rump of the once-great empire. After the War of Independence, Atatürk’s declaration of the Republic in 1923 and the creation of a new capital in Ankara effectively solved the problem.

The population of Greater Istanbul has increased twelvefold since the establishment of the Turkish Republic, and stands today at around 15 million. This rapid urban growth has left the city with more than its fair share of problems, from horrendous traffic congestion to housing and water shortages and rising crime rates. A UNESCO threat to revoke the city’s “World Heritage” status and place it on the “In Danger” list focused the minds of the government and local authorities on preserving the city’s glorious heritage, and Istanbul emerged from its year as a European Capital of Culture in 2010 with great credit.

Much else has been done to improve the infrastructure of one of the world’s leading cities. A government-backed housing scheme offers quality, affordable housing to low-income families in order, eventually, to replace the shanty-dwellings that have long ringed the suburbs. The European and Asian sides of the city were linked by a rail tunnel under the Bosphorus in late 2013, and the metro systems either side of the Golden Horn joined by a (controversial) bridge early in 2014. The Horn itself, once heavily polluted, has been cleaned up, and both anglers and cormorants can now be seen successfully fishing in its waters.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Turkey, created by local experts

4 days  / from 1050 USD

Sensational landscapes of Cappadocia

3 different modes of transportation to explore Cappadocia - by hot air balloon, on the back of a camel as well as on an ATV quad. Why choose if you can have it all? Four days filled with fun and adventure in the volcanic valleys around Cappadocia make an unforgettable trip.

5 days  / from 1100 USD

City & culture - Istanbul and Cappadocia

Explore two absolute highlights in Turkey - Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with its many landmarks. After a few days in the city, fly to Cappadocia and explore the surreal surroundings, either on day tours or from above in a hot air balloon.

9 days  / from 2500 USD

Magical Turkey

Visit Gobekli Tepe and Mount Nemrut in Southeastern Anatolia before proceeding to Cappadocia with its volcanic scenery. After a few days in the valleys, continue to Pamukkale and the ancient city of Ephesus. Your tour starts and ends in Istanbul.

Tailor-made trips for   Turkey

İstanbul hosts a decent range of annual cultural festivals , and matches other European cities for the breadth of its arts scene . State-subsidized theatre, opera and ballet make performances affordable for all, and there’s something going on almost every night at venues around the city. Music features heavily over the summer months, when international festivals draw musicians from all over the world.

Taking a boat trip up the Bosphorus, from the bustling quays of Eminönü to the quiet fishing village of Anadolu Kavağı, is a highlight of any visit to İstanbul. The long Bosphorus Cruise , run by the Şehir Hatları company ( t 444 1851, w sehirhatlari.com.tr ), leaves from the Boğaz Ferry Terminal just east of the Galata Bridge in Eminönü (daily: May–Oct 10.35am & 1.35pm, Nov–April 10.35am; one-way TL15, round-trip TL25).

In summer, especially at weekends, the queues to buy tickets can be very long, so allow at least half an hour, or, preferably, buy your ticket a day or two in advance. There are also often long queues to board, so late-comers end up sitting in the worst seats. The ferries are rather antiquated but comfortable enough, and you can buy snacks, sandwiches and drinks on board. The round trip, including a 2hr 30min lunch stop at Anadolu Kavağı, takes about seven hours.

The boat stops at Beşiktaş, Kanlıca (Asia), Yeniköy, Sariyer and Rumeli Kavağı (all Europe) and, finally, Anadolu Kavağı (Asia); the only stop on the return is Beşiktaş. You can leave the boat at any of the landings to explore the waterfront or hinterland, but most passengers do the return cruise. A shorter version is also available for TL10, departing from the same ferry terminal and covering the same distance with no stops (other than to pick up more passengers at Üsküdar). The tour takes around two hours, departing Eminönü at 2.30pm (April–Oct daily; Nov–March Sun & public holidays).

On Saturday nights only, between early June and mid-September, a night-time Mehtaplı cruise (TL20) makes an attractive alternative, with the great suspension bridges lit up like Christmas trees, and the lights of Asia and Europe twinkling on either side. The boat departs Eminönü at 7pm, reaching Anadolu Kavağı at 8.30pm, where it moors for dinner, before arriving back in Eminönü around midnight.

The private Turyol company also runs tours up the Bosphorus, as far as the Fatih bridge. Boats depart every hour on the hour on weekdays, more frequently at weekends, and the 1hr 30min round trip costs TL12.

Istanbul is undoubtedly far safer than most European or North American cities, and cases of mugging and assault against tourists are rare.

For the average visitor, pickpocketing is the main cause for concern: be particularly careful around Sirkeci station, the Eminönü waterfront, the Galata Bridge, and around Taksim (especially at night). Also avoid being on or around the Byzantine land walls at dusk/night. Be very careful, too, on public transport , particularly when it is crowded. If you feel anyone is harassing or attempting to pickpocket you, try calling out " imdat! "(meaning “help!”) and contact the tourist police.

Visitors should also be aware that political demonstrations sometimes turn into violent confrontations between police and protestors, as in the Gezi Park (part of Taksim Square) riots of 2013. Galatasary Meydanı, on busy İstiklal Caddesi, is the starting point for many protests.

İstanbul is home to Turkey’s best restaurants, including several that lavish time and skill on old Ottoman cuisine, and, thanks to the lengthy coastline, fish is a firm menu favourite. Snacks are ubiquitous, with kebab stands, pastry shops, fast-food outlets and cafés across the city catering to locals, workers and tourists alike. Restaurants around tourist honey-pot Sultanahmet tend to be of poorer quality, and are more expensive than elsewhere in the city.

The annual festival calendar is pretty full, especially between April and October. The most important modern art event is the International İstanbul Biennial , held on odd-numbered years. Organized by IKSV, the İstanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts ( w iksv.org ), it uses venues ranging from historic buildings like the Topkapı Palace to urban-chic warehouses.

International Film Festival

w film.iksv.org/en . Turkish, European and Hollywood movies premiere at İstanbul’s cinemas, mainly in Beyoğlu, plus the best of the non-English-speaking world’s releases from the previous year.

Tulip Festival

Week-long festival honouring the national flower, including concerts, arts events and competitions at different locations around the city. Over three million bulbs flower across the city, planted by the municipality.

w chilloutfest.com . Dance and electronica festival held in the incongruous surroundings of ultra-posh Kemer Golf and Country Club in Belgrade Forest.

Conquest Celebrations

w ibb.gov.tr . Week-long celebration of the Ottoman conquest of old Constantinople (May 29, 1453) – concerts by the Ottoman Mehter military band, fancy-dress processions and fireworks.

w millerfreshtival.com . Held in Maçka’s Kücükçiftlik Parkı, this festival mixes indie, dance and rock sounds, with both international and local acts and DJs.

International Puppet Festival

t 0212 232 0224. A celebration of Turkish Shadow Theatre, or karağoz – silent puppets perform behind a two-dimensional screen.

International Theatre Festival

w iksv.org . The year’s best Turkish plays (both local avant-garde and established theatre groups), and performances by visiting foreign theatres.

Efes Pilsen One Love

w icvb.org.tr/art-and-culture/ . Moderately alternative city-centre weekend-long festival, usually held at Santralistanbul, with plenty of DJ-led dance sets and performances from international bands such as Röyksopp and Klaxons, plus assorted home-grown acts.

The International Music Festival

w iksv.org . This hugely successful festival was launched in 1973 to celebrate Turkey’s fifty years of independence and brings top-notch orchestras and soloists from all over the world to perform in such atmospheric venues as the church of Aya Irene.

w sonispherefestivals.com . Two-day head-banging event for (mainly Turkish) heavy-metal lovers.

International Jazz Festival

w iksv.org . Two weeks of gigs and jamming sessions from world-class performers (with the definition of jazz stretched to include rock artists such as Lou Reed and Marianne Faithful).

Rumeli Hisarı Fortress Concerts

Nightly summer concerts within the walls of this Ottoman fortification overlooking the Bosphorus – a varied programme from classical to rock.

Rock N’ Coke

w rockncoke.com . Attracts major international acts – often a little past their prime – to the (defunct) Grand Prix track on the Asian side of the city.

İstanbul Arts Fair

w tuyap.com . A week-long fair selling the work of some fifty or so İstanbul galleries and visiting foreign artists – paintings, sculptures, pottery and fabrics.

International İstanbul Biennial

w iksv.org . Multimedia contemporary arts festival that usually runs mid-September to the first week in November. Held odd years: 2013, 2015, etc.

Akbank International Jazz Festival

w akbanksanat.com . Two-week festival concentrating on traditional jazz, with performers such as Dave Holland and Henry Threadgill. Events include film screenings, informal jamming sessions and drum workshops. Varied venues include the Byzantine church of Aya Irene and the Babylon Performance Centre in Beyoğlu.

Efes Pilsen Blues Festival

Two-day late-night blues festival – a showcase of new local talent and famous foreign bands.

Theodosius II’s land walls are among the most fascinating Byzantine remains in Turkey. Well-preserved remnants can still be found along the whole of their 6.5km length, though purists (and UNESCO) decry the fact that much of the recent work done on the walls looks like new-build rather than restoration.

The land walls were named after Theodosius II, and construction started in 413 AD. Stretching from the Marmara to Tekfur Saray, 2km further out than the previous walls of Constantine, they were built to accommodate the city’s expanding population. All citizens, regardless of rank, were required to help in the rebuilding following their collapse in the earthquake of 447 AD, in the light of the imminent threat of attack by Attila the Hun. The completed construction consisted of the original wall, 5m thick and 12m high, plus an outer wall of 2m by 8.5m, and a 20m-wide moat, all of which proved sufficient to repel Atilla’s assault.

Walking along the walls takes a little over two hours, though a full day allows time to enjoy it, and the adjacent sites, fully. Most of the outer wall and its 96 towers are still standing; access is restricted on some of the restored sections, though elsewhere there’s the chance to scramble along the crumbling edifice. As there are still plenty of run-down slums in this area, it’s best avoided at night (especially Topkapı).

The three principal sights can also be visited independently. The Yedikule fortifications , towards the southern terminus of the walls, are best reached by walking up from the suburban train station at Yedikule. The Kariye Museum , a former Byzantine church containing some of the best-preserved mosaics and frescoes in the world, just in from Edirnekapı and around 750m north of the Golden Horn, is easily accessed from the Ulubatlı M1 metro stop or the Pazartekke T1 tramstop, the Mihrimah Camii likewise – or take #28, #38E or #336E bus from Eminönü to Edirnekapı.

Kariye Museum

Formerly the church of St Saviour in Chora, the Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi) is decorated with a superbly preserved series of frescoes and mosaics portraying the life and miracles of Christ. Arguably the most evocative of all the city’s Byzantine treasures, it’s thought to have been built in the early twelfth century on the site of a much older church far from the centre: hence “in Chora”, meaning “in the country”. Between 1316 and 1321, the statesman and scholar Theodore Metochites rebuilt the central dome and added the narthexes and mortuary chapel.

The mosaics

Inside the church, the most prominent of the mosaics is that of Christ Pantocrator , bearing the inscription “Jesus Christ, the Land of the Living”. Opposite is a depiction of the Virgin and angels, with the inscription “Mother of God, the Dwelling Place of the Uncontainable”. The third in the series, located in the inner narthex, shows Metochites offering a model of the building to a seated Christ. Saints Peter and Paul are portrayed on either side of the door leading to the nave, and to the right of the door are Christ with his Mother and two benefactors, Isaac (who built the original church), and the figure of a nun.

The two domes of the inner narthex hold medallions of Christ Pantocrator and the Virgin and Child, while in the fluting of the domes there’s a series of notable figures – starting with Adam – from the Genealogy of Christ . The Cycle of the Blessed Virgin is located in the first three bays of the inner narthex. Episodes depicted here include the first seven steps of the Virgin; the Virgin caressed by her parents, with two beautiful peacocks in the background; the Virgin presented as an attendant at the temple, the Virgin receiving a skein of purple wool, as proof of her royal blood; Joseph taking the Virgin to his house, in which is also depicted one of Joseph’s sons by his first wife; and Joseph returning from a trip to find his wife pregnant.

The next cycle, found in the arched apertures of the outer narthex, depicts the Infancy of Christ . The mosaics can be followed clockwise, starting with Joseph dreaming, the Virgin and two companions, and the journey to Bethlehem. Apart from well-known scenes such as the Journey of the Magi and the Nativity, there are depictions in the seventh bay of the Flight into Egypt. In the sixth bay is the Slaughter of the Innocents, complete with babies impaled on spikes.

The Cycle of Christ’s Ministry fills the vaults of the outer narthex and parts of the south bay of the inner narthex. It includes wonderful scenes of the Temptation of Christ, with dramatic dialogue (Matthew 4: 3–10) that could almost be in speech bubbles, beginning “Devil: If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. Christ: It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”

The frescoes

The main frescoes in the nave of St Saviour echo the mosaics, featuring the death of the Virgin over the door and, to the right, a depiction of Christ. The best known of all the works in the church, however, are the frescoes in the funerary chapel to the south of the nave.

The most spectacular of these is the Resurrection , also known as the Harrowing of Hell. It depicts Christ trampling the gates of Hell underfoot, and forcibly dragging Adam and Eve from their tombs. A black Satan lies among the broken fetters at his feet, bound at the ankles, wrists and neck. To the left, animated onlookers include John the Baptist, David and Solomon, while to the right Abel is standing in his mother’s tomb; behind him is another group of the righteous.

Other frescoes in the chapel, in the vault of the east bay, depict the Second Coming , while in the east half of the domical vault Christ sits in judgement.

With such a youthful population, a booming economy and relentless Westernization, it is not surprising that İstanbul is establishing a major reputation for clubbing . The best bars and clubs are in Beyoğlu, Taksim, Ortaköy and the richer Bosphorus suburbs such as Kadıköy. For a more traditional night out, head to a meyhane (tavern), where a fasil band might accompany your food and bottle of rakı. Alternatively, try a Türkü bar , where you can drink and listen to the plaintive sounds of Anatolian folk music. Both meyhanes and Türkü bars are enjoying something of a revival of late, but if you want something more familiar there are countless café-bars and modern nightclubs as well.

One of the least visited but most fascinating areas of the old city, the northwest quarter is bounded on the west by the major thoroughfare of Fevzi Paşa Caddesi, to the north by the land walls of Theodosius, to the east by the Golden Horn, and on the south by traffic-choked Atatürk Bulvarı. Once home to a cosmopolitan population of Muslims, Christians and Jews, it’s now a devoutly Muslim area, particularly in the district of Fatih , where you’ll notice many women in chadors and bearded men in şalvar pants, long baggy shirts and skullcaps (dress appropriately).

The most notable sights are a former Byzantine church, now the Zeyrek Camii ; two notable Ottoman mosques, the Fatih and Yavuz Selim ; the magnificent Byzantine mosaics in the Fethiye Museum , the spiritual centre of the Orthodox Christian world; the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate ; and the curious cast-iron church of St Stephen of the Bulgars . A spiritual centre of a different order awaits a couple of kilometres up the Golden Horn from the Patriarchate, the Eyüp area, sacred to Muslims worldwide as it boasts the tomb of Eyüp Ensari, standard-bearer of the Prophet Mohammed.

With their charming waterfront villages, fin-de-siècle architecture, wooded hills and rocky coves, the romantic Princes’ Islands have always been a favourite retreat from the mainland. Set in the Sea of Marmara between 15km and 30km southeast of the city, the islands are easily accessible by ferry from İstanbul, and can get very crowded in summer, especially at weekends. Cars are banned on the islands, so transport is either by foot, phaeton (horse-drawn carriage), hired bike or donkey. Their proximity to the city makes them an easy, enjoyable and very cheap day-trip, but accommodation is surprisingly expensive, and, on summer weekends, hard to come by.

The copper mines of Chalkitis ( Heybeliada ), famed in antiquity, are long since exhausted, but they remain visible near Çam Limanı. During the Byzantine era, numerous convents and monasteries were built on the islands, which soon became luxurious prisons for banished emperors, empresses and princes (often after they had been blinded). The islands were neglected by the conquering Ottoman Turks and became a place of refuge for Greek, Armenian and Jewish communities.

In 1846 a ferry service was established and the islands grew popular with Pera’s wealthy merchants and bankers, becoming İstanbul’s favourite summer resort after the establishment of the Republic in 1923. Mosques began to appear in the villages, and hotels and apartment buildings soon followed. A Turkish naval college was established on Heybeliada and Atatürk’s private yacht was moored here as a training ship.

Sivriada , uninhabited and unvisitable, gained public notoriety in 1911 when all the stray dogs in İstanbul were rounded up, shipped out there and left to starve, while Yassıada is best known as a prison island, used for the detention of political prisoners.

Shopping in İstanbul is an experience. Whether or not it’s a pleasant one depends on your ability to ignore the hustlers when you’re not in the mood, and to bargain hard when you are. Don’t miss the Grand Bazaar , a hive of over four thousand little shops. Equally interesting shopping districts scattered around the city include İstiklal Caddesi for clothes, Nişantaşı for upmarket international fashion; and the Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) and its environs for spices and sweets. Out of the centre, shopping malls have taken off in a big way, good for homeware and clothes. The covered bazaar is credit-card friendly, as are all shops except the smallest of grocers ( bakals ) or kiosks.

The mixed dockland area of Tophane is named after the Imperial Armoury – now housing a university – that churned out cannonballs for the Ottoman war machine. It’s dotted with venerable Ottoman buildings, most notably the Kılıç Paşa Camii , dating from 1780, and the more recent Nusretiye Camii (1822), both recently restored. It’s also well known for its large congregation of nargile (water-pipe) cafés.

İstanbul Modern

Turkey’s leading contemporary arts gallery, İstanbul Modern , is housed in a revamped warehouse on the edge of the Bosphorus, just in front of the Nusretiye Camii. The interior is all big, blank white walls and exposed ventilation pipes, with picture windows giving views across the Bosphorus to the Topkapı Palace. The collection includes the best of modern Turkish art, as well as some intriguing video installations from foreign artists. There’s a reference library, a cinema showing arts and independent movies, and a trendy café with a terrace overlooking the Bosphorus.

Discover more places in Turkey

• Asian İstanbul
• Galata and around
• The Grand Bazaar and around
• The Golden Horn
• Along the Bosphorus
• Sultanahmet

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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