Istanbul Travel Guide
Istanbul is a place where then and now mingle in perfect harmony, offering visitors an unforgettable journey. As Turkey's largest metropolis, it's home to landmarks that tell stories of its ancient past, such as the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia and the grand Blue Mosque, while also embracing a dynamic, contemporary spirit. The bustling streets, vibrant markets and diverse food scene, which ranges from street food stalls to fine dining, give Istanbul an energy that's uniquely its own.
Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul's position naturally fosters a cultural richness. Here, visitors will find themselves drifting between different worlds, from the tranquil courtyards of the Topkapi Palace to the lively hum of the Grand Bazaar. The city invites travellers to slow down with a cup of Turkish tea by the Bosphorus or to explore the charming, narrow streets of neighbourhoods such as Sultanahmet and Karaköy, where tradition and innovation share the same space.
Istanbul's arts and music scenes also offer an exciting contrast, with festivals and galleries adding a modern flair to its cultural fabric. And despite the destination's energy, there are peaceful corners that allow visitors to step back in time, providing a balanced rhythm between adventure and reflection.
Whether travellers are marvelling at ancient architecture, indulging in local cuisine or simply watching the world go by, Istanbul promises an experience that is both timeless and ever-evolving.
Best time to visit Istanbul
The city enjoys hot, humid summers, and summer is the season most choose to travel to Istanbul. It's probably best to plan Istanbul holidays for either early or late summer, though, to avoid the high season crowds and inflated prices. Winter is cold, wet and there's often snow, so holiday-makers tend to avoid visiting between November and February.
What to see in Istanbul
-Visit the magnificent domes of the Blue Mosque.
-Soak up some culture at the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum.
-Marvel at the remarkable architecture of Hagia Sophia.
-See the ruins of the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople.
What to do in Istanbul
-Get lost in the maze of stalls at the Grand Bazaar.
-Stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Dolmabahce Palace.
-Take in a piece of history at the Topkapi Palace Museum.
-Admire the unique location of a Bond film at the Sunken Palace.
Beyond Istanbul
Istanbul is the perfect doorway to a number of regions in Turkey, including Ankara and the Cappadocia region. Istanbul is easily accommodated on any travel itinerary of Turkey, not least of all because it's easy to get flights into the city from all over the world. Most parts of Turkey are easily accessible from the central hub of Istanbul with various forms of transport to each location, including bus, train and plane.
Getting there
Flights to Istanbul land in Ataturk International Airport (IST), located 15 miles (23km) west of Istanbul. There are direct flights to Istanbul from various cities in the UK, US and many European cities.
Did you know?
-Istanbul is the only city in the world reaching across two continents.
-Istanbul is the most populous city in Europe with over 14 million people.
-Tulips, the symbol of Holland, originated in Istanbul and were then sent to the Netherlands.