Istanbul

Travel Guide & Recommendations

Hagia Sophia and Istanbul's historic skyline

Istanbul is experienced across two continents, with centuries-old mosques, covered markets, and the Bosphorus as a backdrop. Here are the essential tips on transportation, safety, and where to stay for your trip.

✨ What You Can't Miss

• 🕌Hagia Sophia & the Blue Mosque — Two of the world's most important religious monuments, facing each other in the heart of Sultanahmet.
• 👑Topkapı Palace — Home to the Ottoman sultans for centuries, with the imperial treasury and views over the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.
• 🛍️Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar — Thousands of shops under one roof since the 15th century — the perfect place for carpets, ceramics, tea, and spices.
• ⛴️Bosphorus Ferry Cruise — Seeing Europe and Asia from the water, past palaces, mosques, and the bridge that connects them, is one of the city's best experiences.
• 🗼Galata Tower & Istiklal Street — Climb the Genoese tower for a 360° view, then stroll down the lively Istiklal Street, the pedestrian heart of modern Istanbul.
• 🛁Turkish Hammam — A traditional Ottoman bathing experience at one of the city's historic hammams, steeped in centuries of tradition.

The historic peninsula along the Bosphorus

🏘️ Where to Stay

• Sultanahmet: The historic peninsula, walking distance from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapı. The most touristy area and the most convenient for a first visit.
• Beyoğlu / Taksim: Modern Istanbul: Istiklal Street, restaurants, bars, and the city's best nightlife.
• Kadıköy (Asian side): More local and less touristy, with markets, specialty cafés, and views on the ferry ride over from the European side.

🚌 Getting Around

Get an Istanbulkart on arrival: it works for the metro, tram, buses, and ferries. The T1 tram connects the main Sultanahmet sights. Crossing the Bosphorus by ferry is cheap and one of the best ways to see the city. For longer trips, use a taxi or the BiTaksi app, and factor in traffic when planning your time.