Istanbul is a really exciting city to visit. I personally had been wanting to go to Turkey for ages. In September 2024, I finally crossed Istanbul off my bucket list.
Here I break down what to see, do, and eat in Istanbul. Additionally, this guide includes Istanbul neighborhood information and Istanbul travel tips at the end.
Istanbul Significance
Istanbul holds a unique position as a city that bridges two continents, Europe and Asia. It is divided by the Bosphorus Strait.
Its strategic location has made it a center of trade, culture, and politics for thousands of years. Historically known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, it served as the capital of three major empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.
Today it remains a major world destination and transit hub. There are many historic landmarks to see and great foods to try.
Good to Know for Turkey
Currency: lira
Capital: Ankara
Bordering Countries: Greece, Syria, Bulgaria, Iraq, Iran, Armenia, Georgia
Primary Languages: Turkish, English
How to Get to Istanbul
Getting to Istanbul depends on your starting place and preferred method of travel. Here I detail three common ways to get there: air, sea, and land.
Istanbul by Air
Istanbul Airport (IST): The city’s main international gateway, serving flights from most major cities worldwide.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): Located on the Asian side, it primarily handles domestic and regional international flights.
Verify which airport you are using – especially for the flight out of Istanbul!
Use taxis, airport shuttles (Havaist for IST, Havabus for SAW), or public transportation (metro lines or buses) to get from the airport to the city. In both cases, the airports are pretty far from the center of the city.
I used a taxi for simplicity. While more expensive, I arrived late and was exhausted. There’s an 11-hour difference between Istanbul and where I live, so with that and nearly a whole day of travel, I didn’t want to wait for public transit. It was worth the expense in my opinion. If you arrive from Europe or arrive at a better time in the day, you may be able to cut down on that expense.
Istanbul by Land
Train: If you’re already in Europe, you can travel to Istanbul via international rail connections like the Balkan Express or other regional trains. Istanbul’s Halkalı station serves international routes, and you can connect to the city center using Marmaray trains.
Bus: Long-distance buses are popular affordable options for travel from European cities, the Balkans, or neighboring countries. Major bus terminals like Esenler Otogar link Istanbul with domestic and international destinations.
Istanbul by Sea
Cruise ships often dock at Istanbul’s Galataport. In fact many small river cruises through Europe start in Istanbul. Additionally, ferries connect Istanbul with nearby cities like Bursa or Yalova.
Where to Stay in Istanbul
Istanbul is a huge city and deciding where to stay is a big part of the planning process for many. Here are a few of the best Istanbul neighborhoods to stay in.
Sultanahmet (Old City)
The historic heart of Istanbul, this neighborhood is home to most of the city’s iconic landmarks. This neighborhood is walkable and a popular choice for first-time visitors interested in history.
Here you’ll find the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern.
For an exceptional hotel in this neighborhood, check out the deluxe rooms in the Seven Hills Palace Hotel.
Beyoğlu (Taksim and Galata Area)
Beyoğlu is a bustling, cosmopolitan neighborhood mixing modern and historic elements. It is perfect for nightlife, shopping, and the arts.
Highlights include İstiklal Avenue and Galata Tower. There are many winding streets to wander and tons of food options. This is where I stayed for my first visit to Istanbul and found it well located and great.
Check out the DeCamondo Galata Hotel for something classy and sophisticated or The Soul for something more budget friendly (but still excellently rated).
Kadıköy (Asian Side)
A more relaxed and local experience with excellent food is the Kadıköy neighborhood.
Here you’ll find the Kadıköy Market with street food and fresh produce. You’ll also see great views of the Bosphorus from ferries and promenades.
An excellent five star hotel in Kadıköy is the Wyndhym Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel.
What to See in Istanbul
1. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Hagia Sophia is one of the most famous things to see in Istanbul. Even if you only have a day in Istanbul, definitely carve out time to see the Hagia Sofia.
It is known for having been a church and a mosque. Today it is also a museum. It is really the epitome of the crossroads between Europe and Asia.
I recommend booking tickets online in advance to save a little time and money. Women will also need to cover their heads and dress modestly. You can purchase a paper headscarf at the Hagia Sophia if needed.
2. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
Renowned for its blue-tiled interior and domes, this mosque is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s still an active place of worship. Entrance to the Blue Mosque is free, but there is usually a line.
It is walking distance to the Hagia Sophia. You can even combine a visit to both mosques with a guided tour. The tour price is just a bit more than the ticket to the Hagia Sophia, but comes with the bonus of an informative guide.
Women can get a reusable headscarf for free as they enter the mosque. Women should be dressed modestly. Shoes must also be removed to enter.
3. Topkapi Palace
For nearly 400 years (1465–1856), Topkapi Palace was the primary residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans.
Topkapi Palace became a museum in 1924, following the establishment of the Turkish Republic by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
The palace’s location has great views of the Bosphorus.
During my visit, I skipped Topkapi Palace because the ticket price is about $60 per person for foreign visitors.
4. Grand Bazaar
One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, it features thousands of shops selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs.
The Grand Bazaar dates back to 1461, built shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople.
Visiting The Grand Bazaar is one of Istanbul’s best free activities.
5. Basilica Cistern
This underground complex features a maze of illuminated columns and famous Medusa heads.
Built in 532 CE during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, the Basilica Cistern is a prominent example of Byzantine engineering.
If you’re visiting in the summer, this could be a great thing to see to escape the heat.
I opted to skip the Basilica Cistern due to the ticket cost at about $30 per person, but I’ve heard from friends that have gone that it is really cool.
6. Galata Tower
At the Galata Tower you can climb up for panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline, including the Golden Horn and Bosphorus. There is also a small museum at the base. Admission in 2024 was over $30, so I honestly skipped it but it is cool to see from the ground.
The view in the picture below can be found from the second floor of Viyana Kahvesi Galata.
7. Bosphorus Cruise
Take a boat ride to see the city from the water. You’ll pass charming waterfront neighborhoods and the Bosphorus Bridge. It is a good way to see a lot of the city from a relaxing vantage point.
This was surprisingly better than expected and is quite affordable. You cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time. There are a few indoor and outdoor decks on the boats.
Cruising the Bosphorus can be done at night too and even includes a dinner on some tours.
8. Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)
This Istanbul market is filled with aromatic spices, dried fruits, teas, and Turkish delights. There are a lot of covered and enclosed markets and stalls, making it a good choice if the weather is bad. While the shop owners do want to convince you to buy or sample their products, I didn’t find this market to be overwhelming or shop owners to be excessively pushy or confrontational.
It’s a great place to wander around and pick up yummy Istanbul souvenirs.
Related: Budget-Friendly Things to do in Dubai
9. Taksim Square
Taksim Square is a historic large plaza in Istanbul and is considered the cultural and social center of the city.
At the center of the square stands the Republic Monument (Cumhuriyet Anıtı), erected in 1928 to commemorate the founding of the Turkish Republic. It features Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the country’s founder.
Taksim has been a focal point for political demonstrations and historical events. In the 1980s and 1990s, protests were often centered around democratic rights.
The iconic red trams run through the plaza. Recently, the impressive Taksim Mosque officially opened in 2021.
The square is a great spot to people-watch and meander.
10. Ortaköy Square
Head to Ortaköy Square to see the pretty Büyük Mecidiye Mosque. This area is also a popular local hang out with lots of street vendors.
Surprisingly, one of the most popular foods to eat here is a custom loaded baked potato.
You can also catch a boat for the Bosphorus from Ortaköy Square.
What to Eat in Istanbul
One of the things I was most looking forward to about Istanbul was the food and let me tell you it did not disappoint! Here are some of the best things to sample throughout the city:
Künefe
Künefe is a sweet dessert made from shredded phyllo dough, melted cheese, and soaked in sugar syrup, often served with pistachios.
Turkish Tea and Coffee
Strong and aromatic, these drinks are an essential part of Istanbul’s culture, often enjoyed with sweets like lokum (Turkish delight).
Turkish coffee is commonly made with a cezve, a small, long-handled pot traditionally made of copper or brass.
Baklava
Baklava is a world famous dessert with layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts and drenched in sweet sticky syrup. It is a must-try Ottoman dessert.
You can often find it topped with crushed pistachios or a chocolate drizzle.
Kebab Varieties
Döner Kebab is a sliced meat (lamb, chicken, or beef) served in a wrap or plate. Perfect for a quick lunch or late night snack.
Meze (Appetizers)
Meze is a selection of small dishes like hummus, ezme (spicy tomato salad), and haydari (yogurt with herbs), typically served with raki.
Musakka
Musakka is a traditional Turkish comfort food that layers ingredients like lamb, potatoes, and vegetables in a casserole-style dish. While not exactly like Italian lasagna, Turkish musakka has a similar layered look to it.
Simit
Often called Turkish bagels, simit is a round, sesame-crusted bread that is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Simit is a popular street food in Istanbul. Vendors often sell simit from carts throughout the city. I saw it just about everywhere.
How to Get Around in Istanbul
Public Transportation
Istanbul’s public transport system is affordable and efficient. You can use an Istanbulkart, a rechargeable travel card valid across most modes of transport, to get around.
The Metro: Covers many key areas, including connections to both airports.
The Tram: Ideal for exploring tourist areas, such as the T1 line linking Sultanahmet, the Grand Bazaar, and Galata.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis are widely available. Ride-sharing apps like BiTaksi or Uber can be more reliable. I primarily used Uber, but with mixed success. There were a few times I waited for a long time just for the ride to be canceled. A scheduled early morning Uber to the airport also never showed up.
Should I rent a car in Istanbul?
Renting a car in Istanbul isn’t necessary and can be challenging due to heavy traffic, narrow streets, and limited parking. The city’s excellent public transportation—trams, buses, ferries, and metros—makes getting around easy.
If you are exploring beyond Istanbul, like Cappadocia or Ephesus, renting a car may be more practical. I personally would not want to drive a rental in Istanbul though. Traffic can be crazy.
Best Time to Visit Istanbul
The best time to go to Istanbul is in the spring (March to May). During this time, the weather is pleasant. Temperatures range from 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C ).
In the fall, you can expect comfortable temperatures and thinner crowds than in the summer. I visited at the very beginning of September and found the weather to be perfect.
Summer is peak tourist season, so major attractions can be crowded. Prices for accommodations tend to be higher. However, with the crowds comes vibrant nightlife, buzzing rooftop bars, and festivals.
From December to February, Istanbul quiets down. Temperatures drop to about 36°F to 50°F, but hotels are usually much cheaper. It can even snow.
Is Istanbul worth visiting?
Absolutely. Istanbul is a unique mix of tradition and modernity, straddling Europe and Asia. There are major landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque for you to check off of your bucket list.
While there are many attractions with expensive entrance fees, there are also many free or budget friendly things to do like wander through the Grand Bazaar, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, sip Turkish coffee, or explore the boho Balat neighborhood.
Overall, Istanbul is a must-visit city for world travelers. I can’t wait to go back.
Is Istanbul affordable?
Istanbul is relatively affordable compared to many major global cities. Accommodation, dining, and transportation cater to various budgets, from luxury options to budget-friendly choices. Street food like simit or döner kebabs are tasty and inexpensive, and public transportation is cost-effective.
Because the airports are so far from the city center, visiting Istanbul is more cost effective if you have a longer visit.
Istanbul was actually more expensive than I expected and many people say it has become more expensive every year (even aside from fluctuations in inflation and currency).
Many restaurant prices felt equivalent to the US or more specifically coastal California prices (for the fancier ones). Cabs were cheaper than in the US, at least in my experience.
With thoughtful planning, Istanbul is can be a great experience without breaking the bank. Hostels, free activities, and food from street vendors or grocery stores helps keep spending down.
Related: Is Budva expensive?
Is Istanbul safe?
Istanbul is generally considered safe for travelers, with crime rates lower than many large cities in the United States. Violent crimes, including gun violence, are significantly less common in Istanbul, partly due to stricter gun control laws in Turkey compared to the U.S.
Most crimes in Istanbul are non-violent, such as pick-pocketing in crowded tourist areas like the Grand Bazaar or public transport. Police presence is visible in key tourist locations.
Travelers should exercise typical precautions, like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and safeguarding belongings. Istanbul’s crime risks are comparable to other major European cities.
Compared to many cities, Istanbul’s level of sexual harassment is not necessarily worse but differs culturally. Some women report experiencing unwanted attention, catcalling, or staring, especially if not dressed conservatively in certain areas. However, this is not uniform across the city, and tourist-friendly areas are generally safer.
Istanbul has experienced terrorist attacks in the past, although such incidents have decreased in recent years. Major events include bombings in tourist areas like Sultanahmet Square (2016) and an attack on Reina nightclub (2017). These attacks were attributed to groups like ISIS and the PKK.
Since then, Turkey has implemented stringent security measures, particularly in Istanbul, which is a key tourist and economic hub. Police presence in public areas and surveillance have significantly increased. While terrorism remains a global concern, the likelihood of being affected is low.
What to Wear in Istanbul
In Istanbul, your dress code depends on the season and location. Summers are warm, so lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal, while winters require layers and a warm coat.
In tourist areas, casual attire is fine, but modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is recommended when visiting mosques, like the Blue Mosque. A scarf is useful for mosque visits. While especially applied to women, modest clothing is also respectful of men to wear too (i.e. avoid tank tops).
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city’s hilly streets.
Related: What to Pack for Mykonos
Where to Go from Istanbul
Istanbul is a perfect starting point for exploring Turkey’s diverse landscapes. For a quick trip or day trip, head to the Princes’ Islands. You can get there with just a short ferry ride from Istanbul.
If history interests you, Ephesus (near Izmir), features ancient ruins, including the Temple of Artemis.
You could fly to Cappadocia, famous for its bizarre rock formations, hot air balloon rides, and underground cities.
Pamukkale is another prominent destination, featuring white travertine terraces and the ancient city of Hierapolis. It is much closer to Istanbul than Cappadocia.
Beach lovers would enjoy Antalya on the Mediterranean coast. This city is known for its sparkling waters and charming old town.
Closer to Istanbul, Bursa offers Ottoman history, natural hot springs, and Mt. Uludağ for skiing in winter.
Related: One Day in Athens
Wondering if your phone will work?
Nowadays, most travelers have smart phones with either a physical or electronic sim card. Your local carrier (ie: AT&T, Verizon, etc.) may offer you an international plan or daily rates of $5-10 for using data overseas. This can add up very quickly and become shockingly expensive depending on the length of your trip. You may even be visiting a place that your domestic carrier does not cover.
To resolve this, it is usually cheaper to change your sim card. If you have an unlocked phone, you can typically switch out your sim card for better rates.
For years I switched out physical sims from my iPhone. I usually had to find a local carrier (ie Movistar, Vodaphone, Orange, etc.) in whatever place I was traveling and spend sometimes an hour in the shop setting up my new plan.
Finally, eSims have changed the game. I now can purchase an eSim from the comfort of home and have it set up for immediate use upon arrival to a new country for a fraction of what AT&T would charge me. There are several companies out there that offer eSims for travel, but the one with the greatest variety of plans, multi-country coverage, and wide regional options is Airalo.
Overall Istanbul Travel Tips
- Only buy ice cream from the store front vendors if you are in the mood to be messed with.
- The Bosporus cruise is worth it.
- Check out the Asian side.
- Get around on foot when you can to save money.
- Things are probably more expensive than you think.
- Get your eSim set up in advance. I use Airalo to do this.
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