Istanbul
Turkey · Marmara Region · 100 m
Description
Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and a unique metropolis spanning Europe and Asia. The former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires is renowned for its extraordinary cultural heritage, reflected in landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The Grand Bazaar, the Egyptian Bazaar, and the ferries crossing the Bosporus add to the city's distinctive character. Istanbul blends thousands of years of history with vibrant urban life, diverse cuisine, lively neighborhoods, and an international atmosphere. As Turkey's cultural and economic center, it ranks among the world's most fascinating travel destinations.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 3 to 9 days (optimal 5 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: May – June or September
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Hagia Sophia
- Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet)
- Topkapi Palace
- Bosphorus Cruise
- Grand Bazaar
- Basilica Cistern
- Galata Tower
- Süleymaniye Mosque
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Spice Bazaar
- İstiklal Avenue & Taksim Square
- Galata Bridge
- Balat Historic District
- Fener Historic District
- Chora Church (Kariye Mosque)
- Ortaköy Mosque
- Maiden's Tower
- Pierre Loti Hill
- Princes' Islands(Day trip)
- Beylerbeyi Palace
- Rumeli Fortress
- Yıldız Park
- Gülhane Park
- Egyptian Obelisk & Hippodrome of Constantinople
- Istanbul Archaeological Museums
- Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
- Istanbul Modern
- Galataport
- Kadıköy Market & Waterfront
- Çamlıca Hill
- Çamlıca Mosque
- Büyük Mecidiye Mosque (Ortaköy Mosque)
- Miniatürk
- Belgrad Forest
- Golden Horn Waterfront
Getting there
- Airports:
- IST, SAW
- Train stations:
- Sirkeci
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry