Istanbul, Turkey
Locavy ratings
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
4.5/5
Experiences
4.5/5
Party
4/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
4.5/5
Experiences
4.5/5
At a glance
Renowned for its breathtaking sights, vibrant shopping scene, and exquisite cuisine, Istanbul is an ideal destination for a bustling city break.
Party
Istanbul boasts a vibrant nightlife scene. The Beyoglu district is home to many of the city’s bars and nightclubs, with Istiklal Avenue pulsating at the heart of the nightlife experience. Escape Club İstanbul and Taksim Club IQ are highly regarded venues for those seeking lively entertainment.
Sightseeing
Istanbul is a city rich in historical landmarks. Visit the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, renowned for their stunning architecture and cultural significance. For panoramic views, climb the historic Galata Tower, which offers unparalleled vistas over Istanbul.
Relaxation
Despite Istanbul’s bustling nature, there are plenty of opportunities to relax in the city. Enjoy the renowned Turkish Baths scattered throughout Istanbul for a rejuvenating experience. Additionally, take a tranquil stroll through the beautiful Belgrad Forest.
Value
Istanbul is a very affordable destination for tourists, with reasonable prices for public transport, dining, and activities. Accommodation can also be affordable when booked early. It’s worth noting that the Asian side of Istanbul generally offers cheaper options compared to the European side.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Istanbul Airport is located 40km northwest of the city center. While taxis and buses are available, it is highly recommended for tourists to take the metro. Line M11 goes directly to the city center and is considerably cheaper than other transport options.
Train
Taking the metro is the best way to explore Istanbul, with stops conveniently located throughout the city. However, train routes to other major cities in Turkey are very limited.
Drive
It is highly advised against hiring a car when visiting Istanbul due to its excellent public transport and famously hectic traffic. However, for those wanting to explore other cities in Turkey, renting a car is the best method of transport.
Experiences
Istanbul offers a wide range of experiences. Explore the historic Grand Bazaar and sail down the scenic Bosphorus. Don’t miss the iconic Blue Mosque and vibrant Istiklal Street for a complete Istanbul adventure.
Best Things To Do
1. Explore the Historic Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is the oldest covered market in the world, featuring over 4,000 shops. This bustling market offers a wide range of goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and antiques, making it a must-visit attraction in Istanbul.
Best to visit early to avoid crowds; haggling is expected.
2. Bosphorus River Cruise
Take a scenic cruise down the iconic Bosphorus River. Choose from party boats, sunset dinner cruises, or relaxing tours to nearby islands, offering breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline and landmarks.
Book in advance during peak season to secure the best seats.
3. Stroll Down Istiklal Street
Visit Istanbul’s most famous street, Istiklal. This vibrant, cobbled street is lined with stunning architecture, cafes, restaurants, and a variety of shops, perfect for a leisurely day out.
Best visited in the evening when the street comes alive with lights and performances.
4. Museums
Explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture through its excellent museums. Must-visit sites include the Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul Archaeological Museum, and the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.
Purchase a Museum Pass Istanbul for convenient access to multiple museums.
5. Escape to Belgrad Forest
Located north of the city, Belgrad Forest is a beautiful park popular among both tourists and locals. It offers numerous walking and biking trails, as well as a quad bike safari for an adventurous day out.
Ideal for a picnic or a peaceful nature walk; visit early in the day to enjoy the tranquility.
6. Turkish Baths
Experience the ultimate relaxation in one of Istanbul’s famous Hammams. These traditional Turkish baths, such as Çemberlitaş Hammam and Mihrimah Sultan Hamamı, offer a unique way to unwind and rejuvenate.
Reserve your session in advance, especially on weekends.
7. Climb the Galata Tower
This historic 14th-century watchtower offers unmatched panoramic views of Istanbul. Climbing to the top is a must for capturing breathtaking photos of the city.
Tickets start from 7 Euros; consider visiting at sunset for the best views.
8. Take an Istanbul Food Tour
Indulge in a culinary adventure with an Istanbul food tour. Taste the city’s renowned cuisine and spices while learning about the local culture and culinary traditions.
Choose a tour that includes a variety of stops to experience a wide range of flavors.
9. Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most iconic buildings, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful interior. It’s a must-see landmark for any visitor to the city.
This is an active place of worship, there is a dress code and tourists should dress accordingly.
10. Attend a Football Match
Istanbul is home to Turkey’s top football teams: Beşiktaş, Galatasaray, and Fenerbahçe. Watching a match in this football-mad city is an unforgettable experience for sports fans.
Purchase tickets in advance, and be prepared for passionate crowds and an electrifying atmosphere.
1. Explore the Historic Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is the oldest covered market in the world, featuring over 4,000 shops. This bustling market offers a wide range of goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and antiques, making it a must-visit attraction in Istanbul.
Best to visit early to avoid crowds; haggling is expected.
2. Bosphorus River Cruise
Take a scenic cruise down the iconic Bosphorus River. Choose from party boats, sunset dinner cruises, or relaxing tours to nearby islands, offering breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline and landmarks.
Book in advance during peak season to secure the best seats.
3. Stroll Down Istiklal Street
Visit Istanbul’s most famous street, Istiklal. This vibrant, cobbled street is lined with stunning architecture, cafes, restaurants, and a variety of shops, perfect for a leisurely day out.
Best visited in the evening when the street comes alive with lights and performances.
4. Museums
Explore Istanbul’s rich history and culture through its excellent museums. Must-visit sites include the Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul Archaeological Museum, and the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.
Purchase a Museum Pass Istanbul for convenient access to multiple museums.
5. Escape to Belgrad Forest
Located north of the city, Belgrad Forest is a beautiful park popular among both tourists and locals. It offers numerous walking and biking trails, as well as a quad bike safari for an adventurous day out.
Ideal for a picnic or a peaceful nature walk; visit early in the day to enjoy the tranquility.
6. Turkish Baths
Experience the ultimate relaxation in one of Istanbul’s famous Hammams. These traditional Turkish baths, such as Çemberlitaş Hammam and Mihrimah Sultan Hamamı, offer a unique way to unwind and rejuvenate.
Reserve your session in advance, especially on weekends.
7. Climb the Galata Tower
This historic 14th-century watchtower offers unmatched panoramic views of Istanbul. Climbing to the top is a must for capturing breathtaking photos of the city.
Tickets start from 7 Euros; consider visiting at sunset for the best views.
8. Take an Istanbul Food Tour
Indulge in a culinary adventure with an Istanbul food tour. Taste the city’s renowned cuisine and spices while learning about the local culture and culinary traditions.
Choose a tour that includes a variety of stops to experience a wide range of flavors.
9. Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most iconic buildings, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful interior. It’s a must-see landmark for any visitor to the city.
This is an active place of worship, there is a dress code and tourists should dress accordingly.
10. Attend a Football Match
Istanbul is home to Turkey’s top football teams: Beşiktaş, Galatasaray, and Fenerbahçe. Watching a match in this football-mad city is an unforgettable experience for sports fans.
Purchase tickets in advance, and be prepared for passionate crowds and an electrifying atmosphere.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Istanbul Megapass
This pass offers tourists free access to various attractions as well as free public transport.
6.
Beware of Tourist Scams
Common scams include the shoe cleaning scam, carpet shop scam, and taxi scam, so stay vigilant.
2.
Where to Stay
Sultanahmet is popular for its proximity to iconic sights, while Taksim Square offers a more vibrant atmosphere.
7.
Safety
Istanbul is generally safe, but tourists should be cautious of theft and pickpockets.
3.
Europe vs Asia
Istanbul is divided by the Bosphorus Strait, with the European side housing major sights and the Asian side offering local culture.
8.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Istanbul is during spring and shoulder months when the weather is most pleasant.
4.
Embrace the Chaos
Istanbul is busy and chaotic year-round, so be prepared for bustling streets and crowded attractions.
9.
Currency
While Euros are accepted in some places, the official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira.
5.
Utilize Public Transport
Istanbul has excellent public transportation options, with the metro being particularly efficient for getting around.
10.
Tipping Etiquette
It is customary to tip 10-15% in restaurants while visiting Istanbul.
6.
Beware of Tourist Scams
Common scams include the shoe cleaning scam, carpet shop scam, and taxi scam, so stay vigilant.
7.
Safety
Istanbul is generally safe, but tourists should be cautious of theft and pickpockets.
8.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Istanbul is during spring and shoulder months when the weather is most pleasant.
9.
Currency
While Euros are accepted in some places, the official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira.
10.
Tipping Etiquette
It is customary to tip 10-15% in restaurants while visiting Istanbul.