Istanbul Travel Guide (Top Sights, Hotel, Cities Vacation)

and Istanbul is the only city in the world that connects two continents. This fascinating city is home to countless empires that have left their mark on the History have left.

Although Ankara the capital of Turkey is, Istanbul is the capital of many things in Turkey. Istanbul has the magnificent Bosphorus and the streets of the city that never sleeps, and it is also a city with a very lively nightlife.

Istanbul has a population of more than 15 million and is visited by millions of tourists every year and is the top travel tip for city breaks, which fully meets people's expectations for entertainment and nightlife.

Travel Guide for Istanbul

Around 1000 B.C. BC, later ceded Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. After the Ottoman Empire conquered Istanbul in 1453, it retained its glorious position as the heart of the Ottoman Empire.

Istanbul is a true fusion of different religions, cultures and lifestyles, and its long and glorious history impresses both domestic and foreign tourists.

Both the Anatolian and European side of Istanbul are full of countless historical and touristic ones attractions. Historical relics, buildings, institutions, centers of belief of the Byzantine and Ottoman Time, beautiful tourist places with amazing Bosphorus view, tourist areas you can visit by the sea or nature, there are some places you can visit in Istanbul.

Arrive & Depart Istanbul

It is possible to reach Istanbul by plane from Turkey and almost anywhere in the world. If you travel to Istanbul by plane, you can Sabiha Gokcen or select Istanbul Airport. The Sabiha Gokcen Airport is the first choice for domestic flights.

Almost all major German and Turkish airlines fly to the airports in Istanbul. Direct flights to Istanbul cost from 70 to 300 euros, depending on the time of year.

Istanbul Airport (IST):

The points of interest & sights The easiest way to reach the old town is from the new Istanbul Airport. Public buses, taxis and private transfer companies take you to the city center.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW):

Located on the Asian side, it is only connected to the city center by bus or taxis.

• bus: Bus Whether you are looking for a local bus or a luxury bus, the Istanbul Airport is easy to reach. Havaist offers a luxury transportation service for passengers (with luggage) to and from the airport every 15 minutes and 40 minutes. They offer connections for more than 20 different routes. Prices, timetables and route planning can be found on the Istanbul Airport website.
• havabus: (Partition, Kadikoy and Blue) You can take the Havabüs shuttle bus directly from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim and Kadikoy districts. The average journey time is 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs 15 lire per person. More information can be found here: Havabüs website and timetable.
• Taxi: After turning on the taximeter, trips from the two airports are more expensive than private transfers.

Transport options in Istanbul and things to consider

In Istanbul you can choose from many different modes of transport for city transport.

Use public transportation such as Metro, Marmaray, Metrobus, Train, Ferry and Tram to ensure convenient transportation.

Be sure to read our guide to public transport in Istanbul (IstanbulCard, HES code, dolmus):

• Public Transport Istanbul Guide
• HES code Turkey: how to apply and use?
• Dolmus tips for traveling with the Turkish collective bus

Car rental in Istanbul

The prestigious major Internationals and Nationals Car rental companies have offices directly at the airport and in the terminals.

We advise against hiring a car as the city's public transport system is very well developed. In addition, it is difficult to find parking spaces in Istanbul.

Hotels in Istanbul

Istanbul hotels are waiting every year to offer you the most comfortable environment for your business and tourist visits. Full of history and numerous attractions, Istanbul is one of the most popular attractions for domestic and foreign tourists visiting Turkey.

Hotel prices tend to vary depending on the services offered, ranging from ultra-luxurious accommodation to affordable accommodation that appeals to everyone. If you want to visit historical places, you should book a hotel to stay around the historical peninsula.

Recommended hotels

5 star hotels

• Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus Istanbul*: The Four Seasons Bosphorus Hotel is located in Besiktas, one of the most popular areas of Istanbul. Life here is colourful, lively, rich in art and culture Activities and promises guests a historic 19th-century building by the sea.
• Shangri La Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul*: The Shangri La Hotel is particularly striking due to its unique location in the Besiktas district, one of the few places in Europe where culture and diversity are rare.
• Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul*: Located in the center of Istanbul, overlooking the Bosphorus on the European coast, Swissotel The Bosphorus offers comfortable and luxurious accommodation in a superb location.
• Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul*: Çırağan Palace Kempinski is located in the center of district of Istanbul Besiktas, which is famous for its history, culture and sights.

Another 10 best 5 star hotel recommendations for Istanbul

Holiday home

In Istanbul you will find many fully equipped apartments that can be booked through AirBnB.

Sights and highlights in Istanbul

• Topkapi Palace: Of the Topkapi Palace was built in the 15th century and has held a very important position in the Ottoman Empire for many years. Although it later lost its historical importance, it continues to serve as a Museum and its exhibits and is one of the must-see places in Istanbul.
• Basilica Cistern: Die Basilica Cistern is one of the historical places and landmarks of Istanbul, and its history can be traced back to the Byzantine period. If you go to the old cistern of the Basilica Cistern, you must see Medusa's head.
• Grand Bazaar: This is one of the first routes that comes to mind when shopping in Istanbul. On the Grand Bazaar, which you can enter through many gates, you will find almost everything you are looking for. As one of the largest indoor markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar is also a good place to mingle with locals.
• Spice Bazaar: Of the Egyptian bazaar is one of the most famous bazaars in Istanbul. This is one of the pleasant places for shopping mixed with Istanbul locals and foreign tourists visiting the city accompanied by the smell of spices.
• Dolmabahce Palace: Of the Dolmabahce Palace, whose history dates back to ancient times, is a place that makes you feel like you're walking backwards in history, be it from the outside or the inside.
• Yildiz Palace: It is one of the most beautiful palaces on the Bosphorus. This 19th-century palace is also open to the public.
• Galataturm: This is a very old tower with a history dating back to the 500s. If you go to the top, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramas in the city and see the city's many historical and tourist buildings from above.
• Galata bridge: As one of the symbols of the city, Galata Bridge is one of the most important attractions in Istanbul as it is close to many historical and tourist attractions and offers a magnificent sea view.
• Kadikoy Fishermen's Bazaar: Located in the center of Kadikoy, the Fisherman's Bazaar is the largest and most popular fish, fruit and vegetable market in Istanbul.
• Gülhane Park: Gülhane Park is one of Istanbul's historical parks and is especially worth seeing during the Tulip Festival.
• Istiklal street: Die Istiklal Caddesia is one of Istanbul's iconic sightseeing spots and one of the busiest and busiest areas of the city, whether it's day or night. You can choose it to shop, eat, drink, entertain and connect with the people of Istanbul.
• Sultanahmet Square: Of the Sultanahmet Square is one of the most popular tourist spots in Istanbul and its history can be traced back to the Byzantine Empire. Sultanahmet Square is also very close by Blue Mosque and many of the city's iconic historic buildings.
• Suleymaniye Mosque: Suleymaniye Mosque is one of the symbols of Istanbul and one of the works of Mimar Sinan in the city. This is a very interesting mosque with its charming exterior and interior structures.
• Hagia Sophia Mosque: The Hagia Sophia Museum is an important part of the city's history and is an old Byzantine church.
• Pear Museum: It is one of the most popular museums in Istanbul. In the museum, which has been in operation since 2005, many paintings are on display. The museum is located in an old hotel building.
• Archaeological Museum Istanbul: Istanbul Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Istanbul and its history can be traced back to the 19th century. Numerous archaeological relics are exhibited in the museum.
• Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art: The museum is a Turkish museum housed in a building from the end of the 19th century. Exhibiting works of Islamic art, it is one of the most popular museums in the city. 
• Chora Museum: Built in Byzantine period, Kariye Museum is a church and one of the other landmarks of Istanbul.
• Maritime Museum: Located in Beşiktaş, one of the districts of Istanbul, is the Maritime Museum, which excels in the field of navigation and is the most magnificent museum in Turkey.
• Ortaköy Mosque: Located in the Ortaköy district of the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul, the Ortaköy Mosque is one of the most beautiful Moscheen of the city, is located directly on the coast and has a charming architecture.
• Pierre Loti Huegel: Pierre Loti is a hill in Eyüp district overlooking the Golden Horn. The name of this mountain comes from a French writer and orientalist. Although the author's real name is Louis Marie Julian Viod, he changed his name to Pierre Loti after writing the novel at the Café on the Hill.
• Eyup Sultan Mosque: Eyup Sultan Mosque is a 15th-century mosque on the banks of the Golden Horn in Eyup, one of the regions of Istanbul.
• Blaue Moschee: Located in the Sultanahmet district of Fatih, one of the Istanbul regions, the Blue Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Istanbul and can accommodate 10.000 people. The Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul.
• Carpet Museum: The Carpet Museum is one of the museums in Fatih district and one of the must-see attractions of Istanbul.
• Arasta Bazaar: The bazaar is located near the historic Sultanahmet area. Arasta Bazaar is one of the most important Sights in Istanbul. It is located near the Ibrahim Pasha Palace and is smaller than the Grand Bazaar. It has a calm and pleasant atmosphere with flashy jewelry, carpets, ceramics, clothing and souvenirs. A must-see place.
• Galata Mevlevi Museum: The Galata Mevlevi Museum is located in the district Beyoglu within the borders of the European side of Istanbul, at the end of Istiklal Street, another popular city destination. The museum was once called Galata Mevlevihanesi.
• Ataturk Arboretum: The Atatürk Botanical Garden in the Saliya district of Istanbul is a nature park within the borders of the Belgrade Forest.
• Maiden Tower: The historic Maiden Tower is one of the symbols of Istanbul and is located on the Bosphorus. The building is located in the Salacak area of ​​the Bosphorus, on a fairly small island.
• Camlica Hugel: The hill Camlica is within the limit Uskudar on the Anatolian side, about 268 meters above sea level and, with its view and impressive atmosphere, is one of the most important excursion destinations in Istanbul.
• Panorama 1453 Historical Museum: The Panorama 1453 History Museum is located within the borders of Istanbul's Topkapi, where you will learn how and under what conditions the city was conquered and as a museum symbolically contains the history of the conquest.
• Rahmi M. Koc Museum: The Rahmi M. Koc Museum was built by the Rahmi M. Foundation in Haskoy, one of the Istanbul regions, and houses rare works related to transport, industry and communication.
• Beylerbeyi Palace: According to the Üskudar Beylerbeyi district of Istanbul, the palaces in the Beylerbeyi district were built in 1861.
• Istanbul Toy Museum: The museum is one of the largest toy museums in Turkey.
• Istanbul Modern Art Museum: The Istanbul Museum of Modern Art Established in 2004, it is Turkey's first modern and contemporary art museum with the aim of sharing Turkey's artistic creativity and cultural characteristics with national and international art circles and organizing interdisciplinary activities.
• Yedikule Fortress: Yedikule Fortress is one of the oldest open-air museums in Istanbul, built by the Byzantine Emperor Theodosius.
• Baris Manco House Museum: The museum was created in collaboration with the Municipality of Kadikoy and the Barış Manço family and has been welcoming visitors since 2010.
• Ciragan Palace: The palace is 740 meters long and is close to the Bosphorus. The white marble interior of the Ciragan Palace is very charming.
• Taksim place: Of the Taksim place is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul, it is full of crowded atmosphere at any time of the day and one of the must-visit places in Istanbul.
• Sultanahmet Square: Arriving at Sultanahmet Square, you can also visit the nearby Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, Blue Mosque, Ancient Hippodrome, Carpet Museum and Mosaic Museum.
• Princes Islands: These islands are located on the Anatolian side of Istanbul, facing the Sea of ​​Marmara and are also one of the oldest areas of the city, witnessing the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
• Beyazit Square: Beyazıt Square is located in the Fatih district, which leads to the Grand Bazaar. The square was built in 393 AD and has a long history.

Activities in Istanbul

Istanbul, the cultural capital of Turkey, offers you a variety of activities and sport activities from one end to the other. Istanbul has the largest amusement park in the world and one of the largest in Europe and offers many different facilities for families with children, teenagers and adventurous adults.

• nature walks: Belgrade Forest is one of the top addresses Istanbul thinks of in terms of nature and forests, a place for hiking, camping, picnicking, BBQ and Have breakfast, not far from town.
• Miniatürk: Located in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, Miniaturk is an open-air museum with many miniature versions of works.
• Istanbul Aquarium: The Istanbul Aquarium is located in the Yeşilköy part of the district Bakirkoy and is the largest themed aquarium in the world.
• İsfanbul Theme Park: The Isfanbul Theme Park is located in Vialand Turkey, Eyup District, Istanbul and is the largest amusement park and entertainment center in Turkey.
• Istanbul Bosphorus Boat Tour: For domestic and foreign tourists coming to Istanbul, Bosphorus tour can be one of the most interesting activities.
• helicopter tour: Located in Istanbul, which connects two continents and its magnificent Bosphorus; among many activities, it also offers a helicopter tour from which you can see the city from above.
• Frankenstein horror house: Located in the Acibadem district of Kadıköy, the Frankenstein Horror House is a three-story facility serving the concept of a game and entertainment center.
• Legoland Discovery Center: The Legoland Discovery Center in Istanbul's Bayrampaşa district is one of the best places for families with children to have a great time in Istanbul.
• Paragliding: In the village of Ormanlı in Çatalca, this is one of the few paragliding places in Istanbul where you can enjoy a magnificent view from the sky.
• Surfing in the Black Sea: Kilyos Surf School is located in Kilyos area of ​​Istanbul district Sariyer and is one of the routes that are particularly popular in good weather Weather frequented by adventurous Istanbulians.

Excursions from Istanbul

• Pamukkale  and hierapolis: Limestone terraces sculpted by hot water, the ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A little further away but very worth seeing.
• Ephesus: The ancient city of Ephesus was founded in 6000 BC. Built and carried various civilizations. People who lived in the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Princely and Ottoman periods used this ancient city. There are rumors that the ancient city of Ephesus was founded by female warriors.
• house of Virgin Mary: The House of the Virgin Mary in the ancient city of Ephesus is a holy place for Catholics and Muslims in Bülbüldağı.
• Temple of Artemis: The Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the world, was built in 550 BC. built. It is estimated that the construction of the Temple of Artemis took about 120 years.
• Cave of the Seven Sleepers: The Cave of the Seven Sleepers (Yedi Uyuyanlar Mağarası) is located on the hill behind the ancient city of Ephesus and is estimated to have been built in the 5th and 6th centuries. During the excavation of the cave of the dormouse, two were found Catholic Churches and various tombstones discovered. The ancient city of Ephesus is about 2 kilometers from the Cave of the Seven Sleepers.
• Archaeological Museum of Ephesus: The museum (Efes Arkeoloji Müzesi) shows important Historic Buildings from the Greek, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman periods excavated in ancient settlements around the ancient city of Ephesus. The museum card is not valid for the Ephesus Museum. Admission to the Ephesus Museum is 10 lira for domestic and foreign tourists.
• Cappadocia: You can see the cave city of Cappadocia and with a Hot air balloon fly over the volcanic landscape. The tour lasts two to three days.
• Gallipoli & ANZAC Battlefields: The Gallipoli Peninsula and its tragic history is now a popular place of pilgrimage and is an easy day trip from Istanbul.
• Troy: The ancient city of Troy is an impressive and special experience for thinkers and historians.
• Bursa: A two-hour drive is enough to transfer from Istanbul to Bursa. Turkey's second largest city is characterized by a bustling and fragrant bazaar. The capital of the Ottoman Empire attaches great importance to the protection of its most famous buildings.
• Sapanca Lake: If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, the tranquility of Sapanka Lake is unparalleled.
• Sile: An oasis away from the hot city streets, the Sile area of ​​the Black Sea, with its lush white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, is very popular.
• Agva: The seaside village of Agva is a 3-hour drive from Istanbul. With rivers meandering through the countryside and a lively beach life, Agva is a nature resort away from the busy city centre.
• Edirne: Edirne is the second largest city in the country and combines old-world charm with stunning architectural wonders. Interesting and cultural day trip from Istanbul.
• Kilyos: An hour's drive from Istanbul is the coastal town of Kilyos.
• Anadolu Kavagi: Anadolu Kavaği town is situated between the Bosphorus and the majestic Yoros Kalesi hilltop fortress. The bustling streets are lined with brightly colored fishermen's houses and restaurants serving delicacies caught offshore.
• Çanakkale: As its central location is near the ANZAC battlefield and Troy Canakkale ideal for multi-day or longer visits.
• Kilitbahir Fortress: The Kilitbahir Fortress, built opposite Çimenlik Castle, used to serve as a "sea gate" to guide traders safely into the city.

Bars, Pubs and Clubs in Istanbul

Istanbul has more than 15 million inhabitants and about 10 million tourists, making it the most populous city in Turkey. Istanbul is well equipped in terms of entertainment options and nightlife is very diverse.

You can find many bars, nightclubs and venues almost everywhere in Istanbul. If you wish, you can dance until dawn, listen to your favorite artist's song, have dinner with friends in a luxurious sea-view restaurant, have a beer and chat in a small on-site bar. Listen to folk songs, sing karaoke, in short you can find all kinds of entertainment.

Food in Istanbul

As we all know, the Turkish cuisine one of the best in the world. Therefore, Istanbul, considered the center of Turkey in many ways, is a great place to enjoy classic Turkish cuisine and taste the local flavors of many cities.

There are many restaurants and cafes everywhere in this mega city.

When it comes to food, Istanbul is like a secret. In addition to the famous luxury restaurants, you can also find the best food in the small shops in the side streets.

• 10 Best Kebab Restaurants in Istanbul
• 10 Best Baklava Restaurants in Istanbul
• 8 Best Kokorec Restaurants in Istanbul (Roasted Lamb Intestines)
• 5 places serving the best Stuffed Vine Leaves (Sarma) in Istanbul
• The 6 Best Cig Kofte (Raw Meatballs) Restaurants in Istanbul
• The 10 best restaurants in Nisantasi Istanbul
• 10 Best Turkish Coffees in Istanbul for true coffee lovers

Shopping in Istanbul

Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been an important trading center since ancient times. In Istanbul, the world-famous handicraft tradition plays an active role, incorporating all cultural influences from all over the world. The first stop for shopping is the Grand Bazaar and the Egyptian Spice Bazaar.

In addition, there are many shopping opportunities in Istanbul, such as Forum Istanbul, Palladium AVM, Historia AVM, Mall of Istanbul and Emaar Square Mall, where shops of world-renowned brands are located.

• Read our guide to the 15 Best Shopping Centers and Malls in Istanbul (Insider Tips)

How much does a vacation in Istanbul cost

Since the costs vary greatly depending on the season and your own preferences, only the average costs are considered here.

Package tour with Breakfast or half board 1 week

• from €300 in the off-season
• from €450 in high season
• from €700 in high season in a 4-star hotel
• more than 900 € in the high season in a 5 star hotel

Hotel/Accommodation only:

• Budget hotel or guesthouse with breakfast: €15 to €30 per day
• Mid-range hotel with all inclusive: €40 to €80 per day
• 5 star high-end hotel with all inclusive: more than 90 € per day
• AirBnB: own room from €10, own apartment from €50

Transport:

• Return flight from Germany to Istanbul: €70 to €500, depending on the season and the airline
• Single journey by bus: up to €1
• Airport transfer in a collective bus: €10 to €20
• Taxi to the airport: €40 to €50. Private transfer from €35.
• Day trip, for example Pamukkale: 50 € to 70 € incl. entrance fee and food

Eat, Drinks and other:

• Restaurant in tourist area, main course: €7 to €25
• Local restaurant, main course: €3 to €10
• Street food: Simit 50 cents, Rotary €1,50, corn on the cob 50 cents, Dürüm €1,50
• Glass wine in the restaurant: €3
• Glass of beer: €2,50
• Cocktails: from €8
• Bottle of water in store: 50 cents
• Groceries in stores: around 20% cheaper than in Germany
• Food at the bazaar: fruit and vegetables are 40% cheaper than in Germany

Total budget:

• Budget: €40 to €70 per day
• Mid-range: €60 to €100 per day
• High end: from €140 per day

Climate table, weather and the ideal travel time for Istanbul

Compared to other parts of Turkey, Istanbul has a relatively mild spring and autumn Climate & Environment. Therefore are Mai until June and September and October the best travel time for Istanbul. In the winter months, Istanbul's weather and climate data show its maritime aspects.

• Warmest month in Istanbul: Sept
• Wettest month in Istanbul: January
• Peak travel season for Istanbul: May until October
• Low season for Istanbul: All year round

In general, the climate in Istanbul is very pleasant.

Unique districts of Istanbul

• Fatih: Fatih is the most popular part of Istanbul with historical squares, open spaces and Bosphorus view.
• beyoglu: If you are looking for places to visit in this area frequented by Istanbul residents and tourists, Beyoglu is the site of the Galata Tower, where there are nightclubs, luxurious restaurants and views of the Golden Horn.
• Foggy: Şişli is one of the most important areas on the European side with national palaces and luxury hotels and is an area not to be missed by tourists in Istanbul.
• Sile: If you want to spend time in the countryside and stay in bungalows and campsites, Şile is the best choice.
• Partition: Considered the center of Istanbul, it is distinguished by its wide squares and tourist attractions, attracting thousands of domestic and foreign tourists.
• Kadikoy: Kadıköy district with ferries, tourist attractions and entertainment centers offers visitors unforgettable moments.
• Besiktas: The area known for its green parks, unique sea views and famous restaurants is Besiktas.
• Islands: Consisting of 4 islands, these islands have beach clubs and green areas.
• Beykoz: In Beykoz you can take a nature or history tour.
• Bakirkoy: Famous for its beaches, entertainment centers and aquariums, Bakırköy is a great place to shop and enjoy a comfortable stay.
• Flat: Ataşehir, the front line with soaring towers and luxurious restaurants.
• Malta: Maltepe is a big city that has become a tourist destination with its old buildings and clean beaches.
• Bahçelievler: Istanbul tourists who want to spend time in luxury cafes and taste world cuisine can become Bahçelievler guests.
• Kucukcekmece: This area is developed around lakes, with coastlines leading to the Sea of ​​Marmara and lots of green areas.
• Sariyer: Sarıyer has a coastline leading to the Bosphorus and the Black Sea and is located in an area connected by two sides. 
• Silivri: Silivri is characterized by its long coastline, campsites and beaches.
• Buyukcekmece: In this area there is a large lake and a shore in the Sea of ​​Marmara.

Istanbul in the past and today

The original Greek name Byzantion goes back to the legendary city founder Byzas, who came from Megara in central Greece.

The city was renamed Constantinople (“City of Constantine”) in 324 to commemorate the Roman Emperor Constantine, who expanded Byzantium into the capital.

On April 5, 1453, the Ottoman forces led by Sultan Mehmed II carried out the last siege. Constantinople – now officially Kostantiniyye, sometimes called Istanbul – became the new Ottoman capital after Bursa and Adrianople (Edirne). Under the reign of Sultan Süleyman I (1520-1566), the empire's power reached its peak, and its architect, Sinan, used numerous mosques, bridges, palaces, and fountains to shape the cityscape.