Discover Istanbul

Sultanahmet

Hagia Sophia

One of the world's greatest architectural marvels — a former Byzantine cathedral turned mosque.

💡 Visit early morning to avoid crowds. Free entry.

Sultanahmet

Topkapi Palace

Home to Ottoman sultans for 400 years. Explore the Imperial Treasury and panoramic Bosphorus views.

💡 Buy tickets online to skip the queue.

Sultanahmet

Blue Mosque

The iconic six-minaret mosque adorned with 20,000 hand-painted Iznik tiles.

💡 Closed to tourists during prayer times.

Beyazıt

Grand Bazaar

One of the world's oldest covered markets with 4,000+ shops. Jewellery, spices, ceramics.

💡 Bargaining is expected and part of the fun.

Citywide

Bosphorus Strait

The legendary waterway dividing Europe and Asia. Take a ferry cruise past wooden mansions and palaces.

💡 The public ferry from Eminönü is the cheapest option.

Sultanahmet

Basilica Cistern

An underground 6th-century Byzantine cistern with 336 marble columns and eerie atmospheric lighting.

💡 Recently renovated — one of the most impressive sights.

Beyoğlu

Galata Tower

A medieval stone tower offering 360° panoramic views over the old city, Golden Horn, and Bosphorus.

💡 Go at sunset for the best golden-hour views.

Karaköy

Istanbul Modern

Turkey's leading contemporary art museum on a stunning waterfront building in Karaköy.

💡 Great café with Bosphorus views inside.

Emirgan

Emirgan Park

Vast parklands along the Bosphorus — famous for the annual Tulip Festival every April.

💡 Visit in April for the tulip season.

Historic Heart

Sultanahmet

The old city peninsula where ancient Byzantine and Ottoman monuments stand side by side.

Vibrant & Cosmopolitan

Beyoğlu & Taksim

The beating heart of modern Istanbul. İstiklal Avenue lined with boutiques, galleries and cafés.

Trendy & Artsy

Karaköy & Galata

A hip waterfront neighbourhood with craft coffee, art galleries and the iconic Galata Bridge.

Lively & Local

Beşiktaş & Ortaköy

Waterfront cafés, Sunday markets, and the beautiful Ortaköy Mosque under the Bosphorus Bridge.

Asian Side Gem

Kadıköy

Bohemian streets, amazing food markets, live music and authentic local life on the Asian side.

Dürüm & Döner

Freshly grilled meat wrapped in lavash bread. A street food staple.

Balık Ekmek

Freshly grilled fish sandwich from floating boats at Eminönü.

Midye Dolma

Stuffed mussels with spiced rice — a beloved Istanbul street snack.

Künefe

Warm cheese pastry soaked in syrup, topped with pistachios. Divine.

Turkish Tea & Coffee

Çay (tea) is the social glue of Istanbul. Coffee comes thick and strong.

Simit

Sesame-crusted bread rings — the quintessential Istanbul breakfast on the go.

Metro & Tram

Extensive metro network (M1–M11) and the T1 tram connecting Sultanahmet to Kabataş. Use the Istanbulkart.

Ferries

IETT and private ferries cross the Bosphorus frequently. The Eminönü–Kadıköy ferry is a highlight.

Taxis & Apps

Yellow taxis are metered. Use the BiTaksi app for safety and price transparency. Uber also available.

Airport Transfer

Istanbul Airport (IST) is 35–50 km from the city. A private transfer is the most comfortable option.

Dress Code

Cover shoulders and knees when entering mosques. A scarf is required for women.

Cash & Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some lira for street food, bazaars, and small shops.

Water

Do not drink tap water. Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere.

Weather

Spring (Apr–Jun) and Autumn (Sep–Nov) are ideal. Summers are hot, winters cold and rainy.

Get Lost

The best Istanbul moments happen in the side streets. Wander freely — the city rewards curiosity.

Bargaining

Expected in the Grand Bazaar and smaller shops. Start at 50–60% of the asking price.