Hagia Sophia
1-2 hoursSee layers of Byzantine and Ottoman history under one landmark dome.
Turkey
Istanbul
Where two continents meet
From €890.00Airport IST
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Why visit
What makes Istanbul special
Istanbul is one of the world's great crossroads: Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, lively ferry routes and modern neighborhoods all sit within one city break.
First-time visitors usually start around Sultanahmet for Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, then cross toward Galata, Karakoy and Beyoglu for cafes, galleries and nightlife.
Food is a reason to stay longer. Plan time for a Bosphorus fish meal, street simit, Turkish breakfast, baklava, and a Kadikoy market walk on the Asian side.
Top things to do
Start with these Istanbul highlights
Blue Mosque
45-60 minutesVisit the six-minaret mosque and surrounding Sultanahmet square.
Grand Bazaar
2-3 hoursBrowse covered lanes for textiles, ceramics, lamps and traditional sweets.
Bosphorus cruise
1.5-2 hoursWatch palaces, bridges and waterfront neighborhoods from the water.
Topkapi Palace
2-3 hoursExplore imperial courtyards, treasury rooms and views over the Golden Horn.
Kadikoy food walk
Half dayCross to the Asian side for markets, coffee shops and relaxed local dining.
Getting around
Practical transport notes for Istanbul
Airport to city
Istanbul Airport connects to the city by Havaist airport buses, the M11 metro line, taxis and pre-booked private transfers. Leave extra buffer during rush hour.
Public transport
Use an Istanbulkart for metro, tram, bus, ferry and Marmaray rail. The T1 tram is useful for Sultanahmet, while ferries are often the most scenic way to cross the Bosphorus.
Taxi and transfers
Official taxis are metered, but traffic can be heavy. Pre-booked transfers are easiest for early flights, late arrivals, families or travelers with large luggage.
Travel tips
Useful advice before you go
- Visa rules depend on nationality; check the official Turkey e-Visa and consular guidance before departure.
- Good first-stay areas include Sultanahmet for landmarks, Karakoy or Galata for cafes and nightlife, and Kadikoy for a local Asian-side base.
- Dress modestly and carry a scarf when visiting mosques; shoes are removed before entering prayer areas.
- Carry small cash for markets, ferries and small shops, even though cards are widely accepted.
- Useful phrases: Merhaba means hello, tesekkurler means thank you, and lutfen means please.
Weather
Average weather by season
Spring
12-22°C
Moderate showers
Summer
22-30°C
Low, humid days
Autumn
14-24°C
Moderate showers
Winter
5-12°C
Cool and rainy
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