Istanbul Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
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 which includes a fountain, a mosque and a pond

Sultanahmet

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.

Sultanahmet
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Taksim

4/5(72 area reviews)

Enjoy the popular shops in Taksim. Taksim Square is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Taksim Station or Findikli Station to see more of Istanbul.

Taksim
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Kadıköy

4.5/5(6 area reviews)

You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Kadıköy. Spend some time visiting top spots like Istanbul Toy Museum, and catch the metro at Bahariye Station or Acibadem Station to see more of the area.

Kadıköy
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Istanbul City Center

4.5/5(18 area reviews)

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 Blue Mosque, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.

Istanbul City Center
Bosphorus Bridge showing a bridge, a coastal town and a river or creek

Beşiktaş

4.5/5(15 area reviews)

Spend some time visiting places like Zorlu Performing Arts Center while getting to know Beşiktaş, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Nispetiye Station or Etiler Station to see more of the area.

Beşiktaş
Istanbul which includes a city, a marina and a sunset

Fatih

4.5/5(230 area reviews)

Enjoy the popular shops in Fatih. Grand Bazaar is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more of Istanbul.

Fatih
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
5 out of 5
Visnezade Mah. Acisu Sok. NO. 19, Macka Besiktas, Istanbul, Istanbul
The price is AU$446 per night from 20 Nov to 21 Nov
AU$446
includes taxes & fees
20 Nov - 21 Nov
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,009 reviews)
"Amazing service and hotel. Would definitely stay there again"

Reviewed on 27 Oct. 2024

Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
5 out of 5
Suzer Plaza, Askerocagi Caddesi, No:6, Elmadag/Sisli, Istanbul
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$450 per night from 31 Oct to 1 Nov
AU$450
includes taxes & fees
31 Oct - 1 Nov
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! (1,002 reviews)
"Our stay at the Ritz Carlton surpassed our expectations, the staff were amazing, friendly and polite, who couldnt do enough for us. The facilities were first class, and we managed to use the pool, sauna and steam room. The veiw from the breakfast room, was simply stunning."

Reviewed on 28 Oct. 2024

The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
YOTELAIR Istanbul Airport AIRSIDE
YOTELAIR Istanbul Airport AIRSIDE
Tayakadin Mah. Terminal Cad. No.1, Arnavutkoy, Arnavutköy, Istanbul
The price is AU$570 per night from 6 Nov to 7 Nov
AU$570
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Stay at this hotel in Arnavutköy. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,009 reviews)
Istanbul Airside
"Good value, quiet, and clean. Staff was friendly and helpful."

Reviewed on 28 Oct. 2024

YOTELAIR Istanbul Airport AIRSIDE
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.
Somerset Maslak Istanbul
Somerset Maslak Istanbul
Maslak 1453, Maslak District, Sogut Street No:20AA C15, Sariyer
Book a stay at this eco-certified aparthotel in Sariyer. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (210 reviews)
"Good Value in Maslak"

Reviewed on 6 Jun. 2024

Somerset Maslak Istanbul
Radisson Residences Vadistanbul
Radisson Residences Vadistanbul
Ayazaga Mah, Kemerburgaz St 6A No.7V/101, Sariyer, Istanbul
Book a stay at this spa aparthotel in Sariyer. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Taksim Square and Bosphorus Bridge ...
9/10 Wonderful! (164 reviews)
"Great place to stay when in Istanbul"

Reviewed on 21 Sep. 2024

Radisson Residences Vadistanbul
The Superior Living Batisehir
The Superior Living Batisehir
Goztepe Mah Batisehir G3 Block, Istanbul, Istanbul
Book a stay at this spa residence in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (107 reviews)
"Really enjoyed my stay here! Veysel and emne were very helpful and made the stay alot more easier nd enjoyable! Would recommend it!"

Reviewed on 13 Oct. 2024

The Superior Living Batisehir
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

Activities

Reviews of Istanbul

4.6
Top destination
5 - Excellent
195
" "5 - Excellent 67.94425087108014%
4 - Good
81
" "4 - Good 28.222996515679444%
3 - Okay
10
" "3 - Okay 3.484320557491289%
2 - Disappointing
1
" "2 - Disappointing 0.34843205574912894%
1 - Terrible
0
" "1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

It’s a excellent city to visit

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Very nice city l will be coming back

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Love Istanbul... been to over 40 countries and this is a favourite!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Good food, friendly locals,

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

This is excellent place to visit with so much variety and diversity in people and the best of all, the food. It is an ideal place for foodies.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Beautiful city but traffic

Cities near Istanbul