Istanbul

Travel Guide

Istanbul
Istanbul
Istanbul
Istanbul
Istanbul
A delightful fusion of European and Asian culture awaits in the capital of Turkey. A fantastic array of historic buildings intersperse a dynamic, modern city.

Istanbul offers the best of old and new, of both East and West. Shoppers will be kept occupied by the best department stores and luxury boutiques, while the city also displays its rich heritage with the many bazaars, mosques, and palaces. The warm climate of the eastern Mediterranean makes this a very easy place to enjoy and to fall in love with.

Historically, Istanbul is identified as the point where Europe meets Asia, at the crossing of the Bosphurus Strait, and has a population of over 13 million people. It was also the centre of power for the Byzantine Empire. More recently the Ottoman Empire, whose rule stretched at one point from Persia to the gates of Vienna, made it its capital. Ottoman rule was in turn succeeded by the establishment of modern-day Turkey in 1923.

All of this rich history is reflected in the complex and fascinating development of the city's diverse built heritage. First on many itineraries is a visit to the Old City where you'll trace the repeated rises and falls of Istanbul and its empires among the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı), the Hippodrome (Hipodrom) and the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque). The Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) – a survivor from the 14th century – offers views over these and much of the other architecture of interest throughout the city. The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Carsı) is the beating heart of life here, and is also a wonderful place to pick up souvenirs. Miniaturk allows you to see the city in miniature, while you can enjoy some well-earned cool chillout time at the underground Basilica Cistern.

Crossing the straits into the New City, you are met by a very different experience – modern-day Turkey. Contemporary Western design is to be found in the many skyscrapers, the shopping areas and the vibrant nightclubs. Taksim Square is the centre of this part of the city, with business executives rubbing shoulders with the cool young people of Istanbul.

Public transport is very easily accessible – an Istanbulkart allows you access to it all. Make good use of it, and see the Beylerbeyi Palace from the ferry across the Bosphurus Strait.

Istanbul offers centuries of history and change, alongside all of the conveniences and attractions of a modern city. The past and the present are linked in this fascinating melting pot of cultures.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Blue Mosque featuring a mosque, a pond and a fountain

Sultanahmet

Enjoy the popular shops in Sultanahmet. Blue Mosque is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Sultanahmet Station or Cemberlitas Station to see more of Istanbul.

Sultanahmet
Taksim which includes street scenes and a city as well as a couple

Taksim

3/5(2 area reviews)

Taksim Square and Bosphorus are top sights in Taksim, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Taksim Station or Findikli Station to see more sights in the area.

Taksim
Default Image

Kadıköy

Spend some time visiting places like Bosphorus while getting to know Kadıköy, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Bahariye Station or Acibadem Station to see more of the area.

Kadıköy
Cumhuriyet Anıtı featuring street scenes, a city and a square or plaza

Istanbul City Center

Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Istanbul City Center. Check out top attractions like Grand Bazaar and Galata Tower, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.

Istanbul City Center
Bosphorus Bridge which includes a coastal town, cruising and a river or creek

Beşiktaş

Travelers choose Beşiktaş for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Nispetiye Station or Etiler Station and check out top sights like Bosphorus.

Beşiktaş
Istanbul which includes a marina, landscape views and general coastal views

Fatih

4/5(2 area reviews)

Grand Bazaar and Blue Mosque are top sights in Fatih, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more sights in the area.

Fatih
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
5 out of 5
Suzer Plaza, Askerocagi Caddesi, No:6, Elmadag/Sisli, Istanbul
The price is P12,633 per night from 12 Mar to 13 Mar
P12,633
P14,149 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 12 - Mar 13
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,010 reviews)
"Hotel staff was great but it also seemed to have some extra cost"

Reviewed on Mar 5, 2025

The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
ISG Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel - Special Class
ISG Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel - Special Class
4 out of 5
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Int'l Airport, Pendik, Istanbul, Istanbul
The price is P6,220 per night from 18 Mar to 19 Mar
P6,220
P6,967 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 18 - Mar 19
Stay at this 4-star hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,499 reviews)
Nice airport hotel
"Great hotel. 5 minute walk from airport. Restaurant did nice food too. Rooms clean and well sound proofed."

Reviewed on Mar 4, 2025

ISG Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel - Special Class
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Sultanahmet Mahallesi Kadi Cikmazi Sok., No 11 1 Fatih, Istanbul
The price is P9,953 per night from 12 Mar to 13 Mar
P9,953
P11,147 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 12 - Mar 13
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (665 reviews)
"The staff at the property and at the restaurant was extremely polite and helpful."

Reviewed on Mar 6, 2025

Seven Hills Palace & Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Han YK
The Han YK
Universite Mah., Aral Sokak No. 16, Avcilar, Istanbul, Istanbul
Stay at this aparthotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and dry cleaning or laundry services. Popular attractions Florya Beach and Bahçeşehir Gölet ...
9/10 Wonderful! (40 reviews)
"Far from downtown and airports but great area otherwise. Super clean, new and safe. One of my favourites."

Reviewed on Feb 25, 2025

The Han YK
The Superior Living Kağıthane
The Superior Living Kağıthane
Cendere Cad. 33, Istanbul, Istanbul
Book a stay at this spa aparthotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Taksim Square and Bosphorus are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (85 reviews)
"I had a very pleasant stay which the staff Mazlum, Yusuf and Berkay helped me a lot. Any issues I had they were quick to fix them, booking taxis, technical issues, orders etc. the hotel is in a quiet location with 5 minute access to places like Vadi Istanbul shopping mall. The apartment rooms are ..."

Reviewed on Dec 24, 2024

The Superior Living Kağıthane
G Tower Residences
G Tower Residences
Mimar Sinan Cd 35, Istanbul, Istanbul
Book a stay at this business-friendly residence in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (210 reviews)
"Stuff very friendly and helpful."

Reviewed on Mar 4, 2025

G Tower Residences
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Reviews of Istanbul

4.7
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
2
5 - Excellent 67%
4 - Good
1
4 - Good 33%
3 - Okay
0
3 - Okay 0%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

First time in Istanbul, I appreciated the guided " Red Jackets " Team. Big Bus Tours and 2 hours boat tour well done.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

My second time in Istanbul and i am planning a third visit, hopefully sooner than later.