About Istanbul
Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus strait, its skyline an unforgettable silhouette of minarets, domes, and the slender profiles of suspension bridges linking Europe and Asia. Layers of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history coexist in every neighborhood, from the soaring mosaics of Hagia Sophia to the underground cisterns hidden beneath bustling streets. Add a food scene that ranges from smoky kebab houses to rooftop meyhane taverns pouring rakΔ± alongside meze, and Istanbul emerges as one of the world's most stimulating cities.
Things to Do
Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
Stand beneath the 1,500-year-old dome of Hagia Sophia, then cross the garden to marvel at the six minarets and cascading domes of the Sultanahmet Mosque.
Bosphorus Ferry Cruise
Hop on a public ferry weaving between Europe and Asia for sweeping views of Ottoman palaces, hilltop fortresses, and waterfront yali mansions.
Grand Bazaar Shopping
Navigate over 4,000 shops selling hand-painted ceramics, Turkish rugs, lanterns, and gold jewelry in one of the world's oldest covered markets.
Kadikoy Food Market
Cross to the Asian side and graze through Kadikoy's colorful streets sampling fresh simit, balik ekmek, and artisan Turkish delight.
Historic Hammam Soak
Sweat and scrub in a sixteenth-century Ottoman bathhouse like Cemberlitas Hamami for an authentic Turkish bathing ritual.
Local Tips
Get an Istanbulkart transit card at any metro station to ride trams, buses, ferries, and metros at a steep discount.
Women should carry a headscarf for mosque visits and everyone should remove shoes at the entrance.
Restaurants near major tourist sites charge double so walk a few blocks into local neighborhoods for better food at lower prices.
The city spans two continents so plan visits by neighborhood to avoid losing hours to traffic and Bosphorus crossings.
Turkish breakfast is an institution so seek out a serpme kahvalti spread with cheeses, eggs, honey, and unlimited tea.
Plan Your Trip
Browse 1 curated trip to Istanbul. Each includes a 7-day itinerary you can customize.
