Istanbul is where the East meets the West – a bridge connecting the continents of Europe and Asia.
Route Map & Itinerary
Best Time to Visit Istanbul
June to August is a popular time to visit the city, with temperatures averaging between 20°C to 30°C. Time your trip for the Istanbul Jazz Festival in June or the Istanbul International Music Festival in July.
Spring and Autumn have cooler temperatures (10°C to 25°C) ideal for exploring the historic sites without the summer crowds. Look out for the Istanbul Tulip Festival – a two-week event held in April annually. Ramadan, which usually falls in April or May, offers a chance to witness the city’s spiritual side.
Winters in Istanbul are cold and occasionally wet, with temperatures averaging 5°C to 15°C . While snowfall is rare, you could spend a winter trip in the soothing warmth of traditional hamams (Turkish baths), and the bustling aisles of the Grand Bazaar.
Leaving Istanbul Airport
Istanbul is serviced by two main airports:
- Istanbul Airport is located on the European side of the city and is the main hub for Turkish Airlines. There are shuttle services and public buses which operate to key locations in the city centre. The M11 metro line also connects Istanbul Airport to the city’s metro network, offering a quick and efficient mode of transportation.
- Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is situated on the Asian side of Istanbul and acts as a hub for several low-cost and domestic carriers. While it’s a bit farther from the city center compared to Istanbul Airport, it is still well-connected and serves a significant number of passengers. This airport also offers shuttles and public buses, but has no direct metro connections.
Unlike our other itineraries, we do not recommend taking taxis in Istanbul, unless you are absolutely desperate. And even then… Skip ahead to The Chat to find out why.
Where to Stay in Istanbul
In a city as diverse as Istanbul, your choice of neighborhood can significantly shape your travel experience. Here’s a guide to some of the best areas to consider for your stay.
If you’re a history enthusiast, there’s no better place to stay than Sultanahmet. This neighborhood is home to iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, all within walking distance. Stroll along cobblestone streets, savor authentic Turkish cuisine at local eateries, and soak in the rich history.
For a blend of modernity and tradition, Beyoglu is our preferred choice and recommendation. Taksim Square serves as the area’s focal point, offering a bustling atmosphere, lively nightlife, and great transport links to the rest of the city.
Sisli is a chic, upscale neighborhood. Home to high-end shopping malls like Istinye Park and an array of fine dining restaurants, it’s perfect for a luxurious escape. The district also boasts beautiful parks and cultural attractions like Istanbul Cevahir, one of Europe’s largest malls.
Karaköy is a trendy neighborhood, celebrated for its artistic spirit. It’s home to trendy cafes, art galleries, and captivating street art. This, coupled with stunning Bosphorus views, makes Karaköy a favorite among artists and creatives.
Across the Bosphorus on the Asian side, Kadikoy offers a more laid-back atmosphere. It’s a haven for foodies, with a bustling food market and a wide range of restaurants. Kadikoy’s seaside promenade provides picturesque views of the European side, and it’s a great place to experience local life.
Booking.comItinerary
Day 1: Exploring Sultanahmet
Begin your trip with a visit to one of Istanbul’s most cherished treasures, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, lovingly known as the Blue Mosque. Marvel at its six minarets (slender towers) and intricate facade adorned with blue Iznik tiles.
Join the long (but fast-moving) queue of visitors to enter the mosque. As the devout come to offer prayers and reflect on their faith, non-Muslims are welcomed to observe and appreciate the tranquility the mosque offers.
A short six-minute stroll from the Blue Mosque takes you to the majestic Hagia Sophia. En route, look out for the Obelisk of Theodosius. This monument, originally from Egypt and dating back to 1479-1425 BCE, was brought to Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) by Emperor Theodosius I in 390 CE.
The Hagia Sophia was originally built as a Christian basilica in 537 CE. It later became an imperial mosque during the Ottoman Empire, and eventually, a museum. In 2020, the Hagia Sophia was once again repurposed as a mosque, affirming its spiritual significance to the people of Istanbul.
What makes the Hagia Sophia so extraordinary is its seamless blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles. Its interiors are adorned with intricate mosaics, marble pillars, and delicate calligraphy. The grand dome is an engineering marvel of its time and has influenced countless other structures.
Hidden beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul lies a subterranean wonder, the Basilica Cistern. Explore this ancient underground reservoir, supported by countless columns, with the soft sound of water echoing around you. The Medusa head columns add an eerie, mystical touch to this unique attraction.
Continue your roaming with a visit to the opulent Topkapi Palace. Walk through the exquisite courtyards and chambers once inhabited by Ottoman sultans. Don’t miss the Harem, which served as the living quarters for the sultans’ families and an intricate web of concubines, eunuchs, and servants.
As the sun sets to mark the end of Day 1, head to the legendary Grand Bazaar. Lose yourself in its labyrinthine alleys, where shopkeepers offer treasures from across Turkey. The bazaar is a mix-match of shining gold jewellery, fragrant spices, fake designer bags and other unexpected wonders.
Day 2: Crossing Continents
Our second day starts at another royal monument – Çırağan Palace Kempinski. Originally built in the 19th century during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I, this palace was a manifestation of the Ottoman Empire’s opulence and architectural brilliance. Its location along the Bosphorus Strait not only showcased the sultan’s affluence but also symbolized the empire’s connection between Europe and Asia.
Today, as a luxurious hotel, Çırağan Palace Kempinski continues to welcome guests from around the world, offering them a chance to step back in time. Stroll through its magnificent gardens and immerse yourself in Ottoman-era splendor.
Nearby, explore the charming neighborhood of Ortaköy, known for its vibrant atmosphere and the Ortaköy Mosque. This picturesque mosque stands at the water’s edge, providing a unique backdrop.
A short journey away is the Dolmabahçe Palace, another architectural masterpiece of Istanbul. Marvel at its European-style grandeur and the exquisite furnishings within. Don’t forget to admire the world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier while you’re there!
As the afternoon unfolds, make your way to the Galata Tower. Dating back to the medieval period, it once served as a strategic vantage point for surveillance and defense. Today, the tower is a symbol of Istanbul’s vibrant culture. For 350 Lira (as of 2023), climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus.
Once you’ve descended from the tower, head to Istiklal Avenue. This bustling street is the heart of modern Istanbul, filled with shops, cafes, street performers, and cultural attractions. It’s perfect for an evening stroll and some retail therapy.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion
Begin your final day with a visit to the Süleymaniye Mosque -yet another architectural masterpiece and symbol of Ottoman grandeur. Marvel at the intricate tile work, serene courtyards, and panoramic views of Istanbul from its vantage point on the Third Hill.
Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant and fragrant world of the Spice Bazaar. This bustling market is a feast for the senses, with stalls overflowing with exotic spices, dried fruits, teas, and Turkish delight. Be sure to pick up some aromatic souvenirs to take home!
Indulge in a royal Ottoman feast at Deraliye Ottoman Palace Cuisine. This restaurant offers an authentic culinary journey through centuries of Ottoman cuisine, with dishes inspired by the palace kitchens. Savor the rich flavors and unique combinations that have delighted sultans for generations.
Continue your exploration by visiting the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, a hidden gem tucked away near the Spice Bazaar. This mosque is renowned for its stunning Iznik tilework, featuring intricate floral patterns and designs.
After three days of exploration, reward yourself with a traditional hammam (Turkish bath) at Aga Hamami. Relax in the centuries-old steam rooms, enjoy a rejuvenating scrub, and indulge in the iconic Turkish culture of self-care. Make sure to book your package in advance as these often sell out!
As the night falls over the city, embark on a Bosphorus cruise that will take you through the heart of Istanbul. Enjoy a fresh perspective of historical landmarks you’ve explored earlier – the Ortaköy Mosque, Çırağan Palace and more! The delightful cuisine, exciting entertainment, and friendly atmosphere are sure to make your last night in Turkey a delight!
Nightlife in Istanbul
When the sun sets in Istanbul, the city transforms into a buzzing hub of nightlife, offering an unforgettable experience.
Istiklal Avenue serves as a lively epicenter, with an array of bars, Irish pubs, Jazz cafes and clubs. Mikla or 360 Istanbul provide rooftop views, creative cocktails and catchy music to start your night.
For those craving live music and energetic crowds, wander into the district’s numerous live music venues. Babylon and Arsen Lüpen host a diverse range of performances, from jazz and rock to electronic beats.
For a more laid-back experience, explore the charming cafes and pubs that line the streets. Sit back with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee, people-watch, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere at venues.
To add a cultural touch to your night, consider catching a live performance at one of the many theaters lining Istiklal Avenue. The historic Galata Whirling Dervish Hall hosts mesmerizing Sufi music and dance performances, offering a glimpse into Turkey’s spiritual heritage.
At night, the Bosphorus shoreline comes alive with an electrifying nightlife scene, offering a unique party experience. One of the top recommendations is Anjelique. Perched right by the waters, it offers views of the Bosphorus Bridge, along with its open-air terrace, chic interior, and diverse music.
Reina and Sortie are two other gems along the Bosphorus. Here, you can dance the night away to a mix of international and Turkish tunes, all while gazing at the dazzling lights reflecting on the Bosphorus.
Food
Turkish breakfast is a ritual that Turks take seriously. Enjoy a spread of olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, cheeses, and pastries like simit (sesame-crusted bread). Don’t forget to try menemen, a delightful dish made with eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and spices. For an authentic Turkish breakfast experience, make your way to Bazlama Kahvalti. Beware, there are often long queues (and staff may suggest a small tip to reduce your wait) but it’s worth it!
Sip on aromatic Turkish tea or enjoy the rich flavors of Turkish coffee. These beverages are more than just refreshments; they are an integral part of Turkish culture.
Indulge your sweet tooth with traditional Turkish delights, lokum, in a variety of flavors, from rose to pistachio. But don’t stop there—savor baklava, layers of flaky pastry filled with nuts and sweet syrup.
No visit to Istanbul is complete without indulging in kebabs. Whether it’s doner (slices of seasoned meat), shish kebab (grilled meat skewers), or adana kebab (spicy minced meat), these dishes are a must!
For a memorable dining experience, head to the shores of the Bosphorus and feast on freshly caught seafood. Try the iconic balik ekmek, a grilled fish sandwich, or indulge in a seafood platter at a waterfront restaurant.
360 Istanbul Restaurant serves as a two-in-one; a restaurant that transforms into a club. Perched atop a historic building, this restaurant offers not only great food and strong drinks but also breathtaking 360-degree views of the city.
Nusr-Et Steakhouse, is the world-renowned restaurant, founded by the infamous “Salt Bae”. Salt Bae, whose real name is Nusret Gökçe, actually opened his first restaurant in Istanbul. Treat yourself to a feast for the senses with premium cuts of meat prepared and presented with theatrical flair. If you’re lucky, Nusret himself might be there to sprinkle salt over your gold-leaf steak!
The Chat
Kat: Did you actually plan to go to Istanbul in winter?
Sim: No! To be honest, I thought Istanbul was one of those cities that always had sunshine and warmth. Like, Barcelona. I didn’t even realise it could snow there. Originally, I had packed skirts and shorts and then for some reason I checked the weather app. I just emptied the suitcase and put my winter fleeces in.
Kat: Most people consider the weather first when they’re booking a trip. Did that affect your experience?
Sim: Absolutely. Who else can say they went to Istanbul and there was a snowstorm??
Kat: I’ve definitely never seen anything about Istanbul in the snow or winter.
Sim: Usually, Istanbul is a pretty walkable city with good public transport. But because of how bad the roads were, we had to use taxis. And hm.. I don’t know if you know about Istanbul taxi drivers but they can ruin your day. They have uber and other apps there. BUT the prices aren’t fixed, so you can get estimated a price but the driver tells you to pay more. They can actually tell you anything that they want.
Kat: So, no taxis in Istanbul. But wait, just how bad was it?
Sim: Let’s say a trip was supposed to be 20 Lira, we were getting quoted 200 Lira!
Kat: Be prepared if you must take a taxi then! They can’t say we didn’t warn them!
What was your favourite thing to do in Istanbul?
Sim: I really enjoyed going into the mosques. Whenever you go into a religious space, there’s always this calmness and peace of mind. The Turkish Mosques were so beautiful as well that it just added to the whole experience. It was so humbling being in such a sacred space.
I will say though for Blue Mosque, I didn’t get to see any blue. There were segregated spaces and the women’s section was rather plain. It was Haga Sophia for me, that the moment my toe crossed the front door I was like WHOA!
Kat: I don’t think you’re the only person with that experience. I was reading a few forums recently and people agreed Haga Sophia is a must. The Star of The Show.
Oh, I know you mentioned about dressing modestly for the mosques. But I guess that wasn’t a problem in winter?
Sim: Ha! In winter you’re freezing cold so you’re going to be all wrapped up and modest anyways. They do also give out abayas as well at the entrances.
Kat: That’s that covered then.
Sim: Haha, was that a pun?
Kat: Ha, ok what about the food?
Sim: The food was good. For some strange reason, the first few meals I kept on trying to eat a seafood pasta. That did not go too well…
Kat: I thought their specialty was meat?
Sim: They do seafood as well since they’re right next to the Bosphorous. But more grilled fish
Kat: Ooohh…
Sim: They do meats so well and breakfasts even better. Bazlama Kahvalti is honestly top 3 breakfasts of my life. There was unlimited bread and these massive spreads of olives, cheeses, jams, sausages, eggs. I’m drooling just thinking about it.
I don’t even like tea and I drunk so many cups of tea!
Kat: Did you try Turkish coffee?
Sim: Lol, no. You know I don’t drink coffee.
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