Istanbul

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Why go

Istanbul is one of the few cities on earth that sits on two continents, and it shows: Byzantine domes and Ottoman palaces on one side of the Golden Horn, café terraces and ferry piers on the other, with the Bosphorus tying it all together. Four or five days covers the big monuments, the bazaars, a ferry across the strait, and a rooftop dinner or two without it ever feeling like a checklist.

Where to Stay — Istanbul

From historic hotels in Sirkeci and Laleli to a modern high-rise in Şişli, here's where to base yourself — the old-city options put the big sights on your doorstep.

Hilton Istanbul Bomonti

A modern high-rise in the Bomonti area of Şişli, a short ride from Taksim and Nişantaşı — a comfortable base if you'd rather stay on the newer side of the city and reach the old town by taxi or public transport.

Crowne Plaza Istanbul – Old City

Housed in a building that dates from 1922 in Laleli, with a tram stop a couple of minutes away and the Grand Bazaar about ten minutes on foot.

Golden Horn Bosphorus Hotel

A boutique hotel in Sirkeci with a marble-and-brass lobby, a few minutes from Sirkeci station and about ten minutes on foot from Hagia Sophia.

Romance Istanbul Hotel

A historic boutique hotel in Sirkeci beside the Gülhane tram stop, with Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque all within a ten-minute walk.

Sultanahmet & the Old City

The historic peninsula where most first-time visitors spend their first two days — Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks close enough to walk between, with the Süleymaniye Mosque looking out over the Golden Horn from the hill behind.

Hagia Sophia & the Blue Mosque

Hagia Sophia, completed in 537 AD, is one of the great buildings of the world, and the Blue Mosque across the square is lined inside with thousands of blue İznik tiles. Both are working mosques, so dress modestly, expect to remove your shoes, and check opening times around prayers before you go.

Topkapı Palace — the sultans' main residence for centuries, with courtyards, treasury rooms and views over the water. Allow half a day.

Basilica Cistern — a 6th-century underground reservoir with 336 columns and moody lighting. Book a timed ticket ahead, and go early or late to avoid the queues.

Bazaars & the Bosphorus

Beyond the monuments: covered markets, waterfront palaces, and the strait that divides Europe from Asia.

Grand Bazaar & the Markets

The Grand Bazaar is one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, with thousands of shops beneath painted vaults — haggling is expected, and it's closed on Sundays. For something more local, browse the neighbourhood markets, where stalls pile up pickles, olives and seasonal vegetables.

The Bosphorus & Dolmabahçe Palace

A public ferry up the Bosphorus is the cheapest cruise in the city, passing waterfront mansions, fortresses and the bridges linking Europe and Asia. Dolmabahçe Palace, the 19th-century Ottoman residence on the European shore, is visited on a guided tour — check opening days before you go.

Galata, İstiklal & Dinner with a View

Across the Golden Horn, Beyoğlu is where Istanbul eats, shops and stays up late — and in Balat and Fener, colourful hillside streets are made for a slow afternoon walk.

Galata Tower & İstiklal Avenue

Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower, has a viewing gallery with panoramic views over the Golden Horn and the old city — go near sunset and arrive early to beat the queue. From there, wander up pedestrian İstiklal Avenue, where the red nostalgic tram runs between Tünel and Taksim.

Rooftop Dinners & Meze

Rooftop restaurants across the old city and Beyoğlu serve grilled kebabs, meze and seafood with the domes and minarets lit up beside you. Book a terrace table around sunset, and ask about set menus if you'd rather not decide.

Getting There

Istanbul Airport (IST)

Istanbul's main international airport is a huge modern hub, linked to the city by the M11 metro line and Havaist airport buses. Allow an hour or more to reach the old city, and keep Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side in mind — many budget flights use it.

Flying with Turkish Airlines

Istanbul is the home hub of Turkish Airlines, which flies to a huge international network, so connecting itineraries are often simple. Compare fares and timings on the flights page before you book.

A Simple 4-Day Route