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.
Things to do in Istanbul
Istanbul is a city steeped in history, where every corner unveils breath-taking architectural wonders that tell the story of its glorious past. A visit to this captivating destination is a journey through time, and a rendezvous with iconic landmarks that are as educational as they are awe-inspiring.
The Hagia Sophia is an absolute must-see; the stunning former cathedral and now a museum is renowned for its magnificent mosaics that span centuries of art and culture. Another unmissable sight is the Blue Mosque, with its towering minarets and intricately tiered domes making it a true testament to Ottoman grandeur.
Visitors should also stop at the Basilica Cistern, which is a magnificent, 6th century underground palace that's supported by hundreds of columns. For panoramic views of the city, travellers should head to the Galata Tower, where they'll be rewarded with a spectacular 360º vista of Istanbul's rich history.
The Land Walls of Istanbul, dating back to the 5th century, stand tall as a reminder of the city's incredible resistance during the 1453 Ottoman conquest. And, of course, a visit to the Grand Bazaar (the world's largest covered market) will immerse visitors in the vibrant colours, sounds and scents of a centuries-old shopping tradition.
Istanbul's attractions are not just sights; they are gateways to discovering the heart and soul of a city that has stood the test of time. Whether visitors are history buffs or simply in search of unforgettable beauty, this remarkable destination promises an experience they won't soon forget.
Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya)
The massive Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most popular attractions, famous for its impressive size, remarkable architecture, and beautiful mosaics and frescoes. It was commissioned as a cathedral in the 6th century and remained the most important church in Christianity for over 900 years. In the 15th century Mehmet II conquered the city and converted it into a mosque, adding the minarets and fountains. It functioned as such for the next 481 years until the founding of the secular Turkish Republic in 1934, when it was declared a museum. Hagia Sophia is one of the greatest Byzantine buildings in the world, and the vast interior, with its huge, soaring dome, is extraordinary. The interior contains different features from its time as a cathedral and then as a mosque, including incredible Byzantine mosaics, icons, and marble columns, a mihrab (niche indicating the direction of Mecca), and Islamic calligraphy inscriptions on the dome from the Ottoman period.
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
Commonly known as the Blue Mosque, the Sultan Ahmet Camii is one of the most striking structures on the Istanbul skyline. Constructed as an Islamic rival to the Hagia Sophia in 1609, its tiers of magnificent domes and six graceful minarets are immediately distinguishable. It's one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture and is still used by hundreds of worshippers. The interior is splendidly decorated with thousands of blue and white Iznik tiles embellished with traditional Ottoman flower patterns, and it's this special feature that gives the mosque its name. Its design of successively descending smaller domes, soaring columns, and 260 stained glass windows leaves a lasting impression of graceful accord and open space. At the back of the mosque is a Carpet and Kilim Museum exhibiting antiques from all over Turkey.
Topkapi Palace Museum
Built by Mehmet the Conqueror as a sultan's palace, the Topkapi Sarayi consists of a collection of buildings arranged around several interconnecting courtyards. Situated on one of the seven hills of Istanbul with uninterrupted views over the Bosphorus River and the Golden Horn, it was the seat of the Ottoman Empire for almost four centuries. Home to nearly 3000 people, it served as a royal residence, harem, administration building, and military barracks. One of the most popular sections is the harem, once the quarters of about 300 women who were the sultans' wives and concubines, and their children. Visitors can view the apartments, halls, and terraces of the harem, and see the lavish royal bedchamber and imperial hall. No expense was spared in decorating the palace and its exquisitely designed rooms, intricately detailed fountains, and splendid treasury housing one of the greatest collections of treasure in the world. It affords insight into the opulent lifestyle of the sultans of the Ottoman Empire.
Turkish and Islamic Art Museum
The grand 16th century palace of the sultan's Grand Vizier, Ibrahim Pasa, today houses the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum, containing what many consider to be the greatest collection of Islamic artefacts in the world. The palace itself was the finest private residence ever built in the Ottoman Empire. From its supreme position overlooking the Hippodrome, the sultan could enjoy excellent views of the celebrations in the square below. The museum is well laid out and contains more than 40,000 examples of Selcuk, Mamluk, and Ottoman Turkish art, including ceramics, Koran cases, calligraphy, textiles, metalwork, and illuminated manuscripts. Its antique carpet exhibit is renowned, with the carpets, kilims, and prayer rugs forming one of the richest and oldest collections in the world.
Grand Bazaar (Kapalicarsi)
The oldest and biggest enclosed bazaar in the world, Kapalicarsi is one of the most enticing and mesmerising attractions in Istanbul. Also known as the Grand Bazaar, it consists of a vast labyrinth of twisting streets crammed with more than 4,000 shops, teahouses, Turkish baths, mosques, storehouses, and fountains. It's a fascinating experience to wander around the alleyways, looking at and bargaining for an array of goods and services. Here visitors can find almost anything, from meerschaum pipes, carpets, jewellery, and Turkish delight, to textiles, spices, clothing, and hand-painted ceramics. Protracted bargaining over a cup of tea is an important institution. Built during the rule of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror in 1461, the bazaar grew by covering an increasingly large area of shops and streets with roofs, arches, and domes. Eventually it became the centre of trading during the Ottoman Empire. Caravans of silk traders traditionally stayed here and rested their camels while selling their merchandise, and many of these caravanserais still exist as storehouses today.
Sunken Palace
Also known as the Underground Cistern or Yerebatan Saray, this eerie cavern was built by Constantine the Great around 532 AD and is supported by 336 columns below ground. Once a location for the James Bond film, , today the cavern sees tourists crossing over two acres of 12-inch deep water on wooden walkways, taking in the occasional art exhibit or intricate designs on the columns themselves. There's a pleasant little cafe above where visitors can relax with some tea and let their eyes readjust to the daylight.
Galata Tower
Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) is a medieval stone tower located in the Galata district of Istanbul, situated just north of the Golden Horn inlet, which connects to the Bosphorus. Built by the Genoese in 1348 as part of the fortifications for the Genoese colony of Galata, the tower originally served as a watchtower and a defensive structure.
Today, the Galata Tower is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city, including the historic peninsula, the old town (Sultanahmet), and the Bosphorus Strait. From the observation deck at the top, visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of Istanbul's famous sites, such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, as well as the city's modern skyline.
The tower's distinct cone-shaped roof and cylindrical stone structure dominate the surrounding area, making it an easily recognisable feature of the city's skyline. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for breath-taking views or, for a more traditional experience, climb the spiral staircase to the observation platform.
Inside the tower, there's a restaurant and a café where guests can enjoy meals and drinks while taking in the stunning views. The tower is also a popular spot for tourists, especially in the evenings, when the city lights up. Although the Galata Tower doesn't host belly dancing or nightclub performances, there are plenty of entertainment options nearby in the bustling Karakoy district, which is known for its lively cafes, bars and cultural venues.
For history buffs, the tower houses a small museum that offers insights into its rich history and its role in Istanbul's past. The Galata Tower is also conveniently located near the vibrant Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square, making it easy for visitors to explore other parts of the city.
Dolmabahce Palace
The Dolmabahce Palace was home to six Sultans from 1856, when it was first inhabited, up until the abolition of the Caliphate in 1924. The last royal to live here was Caliph Abdulmecid Efendi, before a law in 1924 transferred the ownership of the palace to the national heritage of the new Turkish Republic. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey, used the palace as a presidential residence during the summers and enacted some of his most important works here. Ataturk spent the last days of his medical treatment in this palace, where he died in 1938. The palace has an ostentatious interior of crystal chandeliers, while the exterior of the palace has a vast and beautiful garden.
Hippodrome
The Hippodrome of Constantinople was constructed between the early 3rd and 4th centuries AD, initially under Emperor Septimius Severus around 203 AD, and expanded during the reign of Constantine the Great. This grand stadium was primarily used for chariot races, horse races and public spectacles, with seating that could accommodate between 30,000 and 60,000 spectators.
Today, the site of the former Hippodrome is a lively public square, Sultanahmet Square, in Istanbul. While most of the original structure has disappeared, remnants of its past, such as several impressive columns, still stand. Notable landmarks in the area include the Obelisk of Thutmose III (an ancient Egyptian relic), the Serpentine Column, the Constantine Column, and the Fountain of Wilhelm II, all contributing to the historical charm of the space.
The nearby Basilica Cistern, another marvel of Byzantine engineering, is also worth a visit. The area is now a popular public park, and visitors can enjoy free wireless internet while taking in the historical surroundings.
Eating Out
Dining out in Istanbul means experiencing the splendid fusion of traditional cuisines from two continents in a culinary scene that ranges from busting street food stalls to high-end restaurants. Travellers should head to the Sultanahmet area, which has the highest concentration of restaurants. Traditional Turkish dishes, such as turbot with saffron and raspberry or cinnamon-flavoured chicken kebabs, can be enjoyed in the Edirnekapi and Ortakoy areas. The best seafood is found in Kanlıca. Istanbul also offers a fusion of Turkish, Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, particularly in the Beyoglu and Sisli districts, while Taksim and Ortakoy have excellent cafes. For a more casual experience, street food such as simit, balik ekmek and kokorec is widely available and forms an integral part of the city's food culture.
Desserts such as baklava, kunefe and lokum can be found in both local sweet shops and upscale restaurants, while regional specialties such as Iskender Kebab and manti give a taste of Turkey's diverse culinary traditions. International dining options, including Middle Eastern and Western cuisines, are also plentiful. The city's vibrant coffee culture, including the famous Turk kahvesi, can be enjoyed in its many traditional and modern cafes. With so many restaurants and cafes throughout the city, diners will always find a place to eat, no matter the time of day. Menu prices are typically fair, and guests generally get what they pay for. A tip of at least 10 percent is customary. Reservations are often required or strongly recommended at most Istanbul restaurants.
Shopping
Shopping in Istanbul is a unique blend of the old and the new, where travellers can find everything from traditional souvenirs to high-end fashion. The Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, is a must-visit, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices and carpets to leather goods and jewellery. Haggling is an essential part of the experience here, as well as at the nearby Spice Bazaar. However, travellers should be aware that while these markets feature a wide variety of goods, not all items are authentic or of the highest quality.
For those seeking more modern shopping, Istanbul boasts several high-end malls such as Istinye Park and Zorlu Center, where international and local brands can be found. Many shops in tourist areas accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash, particularly in smaller markets, where Turkish lira is preferred. Additionally, the city's streets are home to vibrant local markets, such as the Kadikoy Market on the Asian side, which showcases fresh produce, textiles and Turkish street food.
Shopping for customised goods is also popular, with artisans creating tailored clothing and bespoke leather products. Visitors should keep in mind that shops may close during national holidays, especially in more traditional areas. Overall, Istanbul's shopping scene is a perfect mix of culture, tradition and modernity, with something for every shopper.
Nightlife
Turkey boasts a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, particularly in cities such as Istanbul, where traditional and modern elements blend seamlessly. In neighbourhoods such as Beyoglu, visitors can find everything from wine bars and jazz clubs to chic rooftop lounges.
The historic Sultanahmet area has fewer nightlife options, but authentic experiences such as meyhanes (Turkish taverns) serving raki and mezze provide a unique way to begin the evening. For those seeking upscale venues, Ortakoy features popular spots such as Sortie, which offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and attracts Istanbul's elite. Jazz enthusiasts can visit Nardis Jazz Club, a beloved establishment. The nightlife extends to the Asian side in Kadikoy, where trendy bars cater to a younger, artsy crowd. During the summer, open-air bars and beach clubs along the Bosphorus become prime destinations for enjoying the evening breeze.
While Istanbul's nightlife is lively, tourists should be aware that public transportation stops around midnight, so taxis or ride-sharing services are often necessary. Drinks tend to be more affordable than in many European cities, though it's always wise to confirm prices. Whether sipping a late-night raki or enjoying live performances, Istanbul's nightlife has something for everyone.
Getting Around
Istanbul offers a diverse range of public transport options, making it easy for tourists to navigate the city. The Istanbulkart, a rechargeable pass, provides discounted access to buses, trams, metro lines, ferries and funiculars. The metro system, continuously expanding, connects key areas such as Aksaray, Taksim and the Levent district, while the Marmaray line links the European and Asian sides through an underwater tunnel. Trams, including the popular T1 line, are ideal for exploring historical areas such as Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu. Buses, although slower and often crowded, can be accessed via Istanbulkart, while dolmuses (shared minibuses) offer an affordable, more comfortable alternative. Taxis are plentiful, but it's advisable for tourists to call one through their hotel to avoid overcharging, with night rates being higher. For scenic views, ferries offer a pleasant way to cross the Bosphorus or visit the Princes' Islands. Ridesharing services such as Uber and BiTaksi are also available, providing convenient options for those seeking comfort or privacy. With the city's heavy traffic, driving isn't recommended, making Istanbul's public transport network a reliable and efficient choice for exploring.
Istanbul Climate and Weather
In summer the weather in Istanbul is hot and humid, with the temperature between June and September averaging 82ºF (28ºC). Summers are relatively dry, but rain does occur all year round. During winter it's cold, wet and often snowy. Snowfalls tend to be heavy, but temperatures rarely drop as low as freezing point. Istanbul also tends to be a windy city.
Turkey travel info
Electricity
The electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. The European two-pin plug is standard.
Language
Turkish is the official language, but English is widely understood in the main tourist areas.
Money
The official currency is the Turkish lira (TRY), which is divided into 100 kurus, and currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange booths, post offices, airports and ferry ports. Travellers should note that banks have the worst rates but will exchange lesser known foreign currencies. Banks open mainly Monday to Friday, but some are open daily in tourist areas. Major credit cards are widely accepted; Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly supported. Some hotels in the most popular destinations accept US dollars as payment.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated in Turkey and it's often preferred that patrons leave service charges in cash rather than on a card. The customary amount is 10 to 15 percent of the bill, though guests at Turkish baths (hammams) typically leave between 10 and 20 percent of the total bill if service has been good. It's enough to round up the bill for taxi fares.
Health
Mosquitoes can be an irritation in mid-summer, but malaria isn't considered a significant risk in the main tourist areas of the west and south-west. However, there's a low risk in rural and southeastern areas, so travellers planning to visit those regions should consult with a healthcare provider. Most tap water in larger towns and cities is chlorinated and safe to drink, but bottled water is still recommended, especially in rural areas. Food from street vendors should be approached with caution unless it's clearly fresh or hot. The quality of healthcare in state hospitals may not meet high standards, but private hospitals in cities such as Ankara and Istanbul offer modern facilities and are well-regarded. In case of emergency, travellers should dial 112; travel insurance, including coverage for medical evacuation, is highly recommended.
Safety
Street crime in Turkey is generally low, but visitors should always remain vigilant and guard their valuables, especially in crowded tourist areas. It's advisable to avoid public demonstrations, as they can sometimes turn tense or unpredictable. Turkey lies along a major seismic fault line, so earthquakes and tremors are a real risk, particularly in the eastern and central regions. While the threat of terrorism exists, with past incidents occurring in places such as Istanbul, Ankara and popular coastal resorts, it remains a rare occurrence in tourist-heavy areas. However, caution is advised, especially in the southeast, where there are ongoing local security concerns related to regional terrorism. Staying updated on travel advisories and avoiding risky areas is recommended for a safer visit.
Local customs
While it's difficult to generalise about a country as diverse as Turkey, which stretches from Armenia to Greece, the Turkish people are typically welcoming and hospitable. Visitors to modern Istanbul or popular holiday resorts will often find locals to be open-minded, yet tourists should still be mindful of local customs, especially during the month of Ramadan. Although Turkey is a secular country, many people observe fasting during Ramadan, making it considerate to remain aware of this, particularly in more conservative areas. When visiting mosques or religious shrines, visitors should dress modestly (covering shoulders and legs) and women may be expected to cover their heads with a scarf in some places, with scarves often provided. Smoking is prohibited on public transportation and in many indoor public spaces, such as restaurants and cafes, but remains common in outdoor venues.
If invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift, though overly expensive gifts might create an unnecessary sense of obligation. Tea (çay) is a fundamental part of Turkish culture, frequently offered as a gesture of hospitality. Refusing tea may be considered impolite, so it's best to accept, even if only a small sip. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon in more conservative or rural areas, meaning it's wise to be discreet. When greeting someone, a firm handshake is common, and in more familiar settings, a kiss on both cheeks is often exchanged. Being aware of these local customs will help ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience in Turkey.
Doing business
In Turkey, business associates are typically addressed by their first names. If the associate is male, his name is followed by 'Bey', and 'Hanım' is used for females. While English is often spoken in business settings, especially in larger cities or multinational companies, learning a few words in Turkish can help establish goodwill. A formal, conservative dress code is observed, and women should take particular care to dress modestly. It's important to note that while punctuality is valued in business meetings, there can sometimes be a more flexible approach to time in social settings. Business meetings often begin with some small talk before getting into the agenda, as building relationships is a key part of Turkish business culture. In meetings, it's also important to respect hierarchy, with the most senior person often leading the discussions. Gifts are common in Turkey, and they are usually practical items that can be used in business, such as pens or office stationery. Business cards should be exchanged with both hands, and it's courteous to have one side of the card translated into Turkish. Business hours in Turkey are generally from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, with a one-hour lunch break, but it's always a good idea to be flexible with scheduling. Finally, if invited to someone's home or to a meal, it's considered respectful to accept the invitation, as Turkish people take hospitality seriously.
Duty free
Travellers to Turkey do not have to pay duty on the following items: 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 200g tobacco; 1 litre of alcohol over 22 percent volume or 2 litres under 22 percent volume; 120 ml of perfume or eau-de-cologne; and 1,5 km of (instant) coffee and 500g of tea.
Communications
The international country dialling code for Turkey is +90; internet connectivity is good, particularly in larger cities and tourist destinations.
Passport & Visa
Travel documents must be valid for at least 150 days when travellers arrive, and have at least one blank page. All visitors are required to hold return or onward tickets, documents for the next destination and sufficient funds for the period of their stay. It's highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry requirements
US passport holders must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond their date of entry. Ordinary passport holders are exempted from the visa requirement for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
UK passport holders must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond their date of entry. Ordinary passport holders are exempted from the visa requirement for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Canadian passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least 60 days beyond the duration of their stay. Tourism visas are not required for stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
Australian passport holders must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond their date of entry, and will need an e-visa for tourism or business if they're staying for less than 90 days in a 180-day period.
South African passports must be valid for at least six months from the intended date of arrival. South African nationals require a visa to enter Turkey.
Irish citizens require a passport with a minimum of 150 days' validity to enter Turkey. Visas are not required for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period for purposes such as tourism and business travel.
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that's valid for at least six months beyond the date of their departure. Visas are required for stays longer than 90 days.
Useful contacts
Ministry of Culture and Tourism: +90 (312) 470-80-00, alo176@ktb.gov.tr
112 (Police, Fire and Medical Emergencies)