Sultanahmet
Ideal for: first visit
At the foot of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace. Very touristy.
Istanbul
Between Europe and Asia, a city of mosques, bazaars and ferry crossings on the Bosphorus.
Plan your stay in Istanbul
Best areas to stay in Istanbul
Beyoğlu and Galata
Ideal for: couples, nightlife
İstiklal Avenue, Galata Tower, bars and restaurants.
Karaköy
Ideal for: couples, local life
A trendy area on the Bosphorus, with cafés and galleries.
Kadıköy (Asian side)
Ideal for: solo, local life
A market, restaurants and a neighbourhood feel, linked to the centre by ferry.
Practical info about Istanbul
Istanbul is explored on foot, by tram, metro and ferry: Bosphorus crossings are part of the experience. The rechargeable Istanbulkart transport card makes travel easier.
To visit mosques, wear covering clothing (a headscarf for women) and avoid prayer times. Check entry requirements for Türkiye and your mobile plan before you go (a travel eSIM can help).
What to see in Istanbul
- Hagia Sophia (paid for foreign visitors) and the Blue Mosque;
- Topkapı Palace and the Basilica Cistern;
- the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar;
- Galata Tower and İstiklal Avenue;
- a Bosphorus cruise, and a ferry to the Asian side (Kadıköy).
From Istanbul Airport, the M11 metro reaches Gayrettepe in about 35 to 40 minutes; Havaist shuttles serve the main districts. All our tips in Travel in Türkiye.