Istanbul
Straddling two continents, Istanbul fuses Byzantine and Ottoman splendour with a buzzing modern energy. Imperial mosques, labyrinthine bazaars and the Bosphorus make it one of the world’s great cities.
Things to do in Istanbul
Turer i Istanbul
3,532 turer · prices per person, book with partner
Istanbul is the only city to straddle two continents, and it has the history to match. For 1,600 years it was the capital of empires — Byzantine and Ottoman — and their legacy fills the skyline with domes and minarets. Add labyrinthine bazaars, the shimmering Bosphorus and a buzzing modern scene, and you have one of the world's most captivating cities.
Top Things to Do in Istanbul
The majestic Hagia Sophia has served as cathedral, mosque and museum across 1,500 years. Facing it across the square stands the Blue Mosque, with its cascading domes and six minarets. Nearby, the Topkapı Palace reveals the opulent heart of the Ottoman court.
Haggle for carpets, lanterns and spices in the vast Grand Bazaar and the fragrant Spice Bazaar, then take a Bosphorus cruise between Europe and Asia — the classic way to see the city's waterfront palaces and fortresses.
Tours Worth Booking
- Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapı old city tours
- Bosphorus cruises, daytime or sunset dinner
- Grand Bazaar and Spice Market food and shopping walks
- Cappadocia overnight and balloon trips from Istanbul
Best Time to Visit
April–May and September–October offer warm, comfortable weather ideal for exploring the city's hills and waterfront. Summer is hot and crowded; winter is cool and atmospheric, with the fewest tourists at the major monuments. Spring tulip season is especially beautiful.
Getting Around
Istanbul's trams, metro and ferries are cheap and efficient — an Istanbulkart covers them all. The historic Sultanahmet district is walkable, and the cross-Bosphorus ferries double as scenic sightseeing. Allow extra time, as the city is large and hilly.