Istanbul
Istanbul spans the Bosphorus with a Byzantine and Ottoman core on the European side and residential neighbourhoods and food streets on the Asian side. Ferries are the most pleasant transport and cross between them constantly. Four days covers the historic peninsula, Beyoğlu and one Asian-side neighbourhood.
How long to stay
April to May and September to October.
Typical daily budget
No budget published for this place yet
Best time to go
No seasonal guidance published for Istanbul yet
Is Istanbul right for your trip?
Based on what this guide covers, not a score. This is what Istanbul is known for.
Great for
- History & culture
- Food
- Solo
Less of a focus
- Nightlife
- Nature
- Family
- Couples
- Budget friendly
Build your Istanbul trip
Top things to do
Basilica Cistern
Entrance €30 · VerifiedIstanbul
A sixth-century underground water cistern held up by 336 columns, including two reused Medusa heads at its far end.
Grand Bazaar
Free entry · Paid extras availableIstanbul
One of the world's oldest covered markets, with around 4,000 shops along vaulted lanes selling carpets, gold, ceramics and textiles.
Hagia Sophia
Entrance €25 · VerifiedIstanbul
A sixth-century Byzantine cathedral that later became a mosque, a museum, and a mosque again, with a 31-metre dome and surviving gold mosaics.
Topkapı Palace
Entrance TRY 2,750 · VerifiedIstanbul
The Ottoman court for four centuries, a series of courtyards above the Bosphorus holding the treasury, the harem quarters and relic collections.
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Popular activities
Bosphorus ferry crossing
Public ferry between the European and Asian shores past the palaces.
Kadıköy food walk
Tasting route through the Asian-side market streets.