Introduction
Istanbul is one of the world's greatest cities – a magnificent metropolis straddling two continents, where East meets West, ancient meets modern, and mosques stand alongside churches and synagogues. With over 15 million inhabitants, a history spanning 2,500 years and an unrivalled concentration of world-class sights, Istanbul is a city that will captivate, overwhelm and inspire you in equal measure.
Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for more, Istanbul always has something new to discover.
Where is Istanbul?
Istanbul is located in northwestern Turkey, uniquely positioned across the Bosphorus Strait that divides Europe and Asia. The city has two main airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.
How to Get from the Airport to Istanbul City Centre
From Istanbul Airport (IST):
Istanbul Airport is located 35–45 km northwest of the city centre. A private transfer is the most comfortable option, avoiding the complexity of public transport with luggage.
👉 Book your private transfer from Istanbul Airport to Old Town (Sultanahmet) – €65
👉 Book your private transfer from Istanbul Airport to Asia Side – €85
From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW):
Sabiha Gökçen is located on the Asian side, approximately 45 km from the European city centre.
👉 Book your private transfer from Sabiha Gökçen to Istanbul Old Town – €79
👉 Book your private transfer from Sabiha Gökçen to Asia Side – €75
Top Things to Do in Istanbul
1. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
One of the world's greatest architectural achievements, Hagia Sophia has served as a Byzantine cathedral, an Ottoman mosque and a museum – and is now a mosque again. The vast interior with its soaring dome and stunning mosaics is breathtaking. Free to enter (remove shoes).
2. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
Istanbul's most iconic mosque, famous for its six minarets and stunning interior decorated with over 20,000 hand-painted blue Iznik tiles. Located directly opposite Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet Square. Free to enter (closed during prayer times).
3. Topkapı Palace
The magnificent palace of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years, housing an extraordinary collection of imperial treasures, sacred relics, jewels and the famous Harem. Allow at least half a day to explore properly.
4. Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)
One of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops spread across 61 covered streets. Jewellery, carpets, spices, leather goods, ceramics and souvenirs – haggling is expected and part of the experience.
5. Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı)
A smaller but equally atmospheric market near the Golden Horn, filled with colourful spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, nuts and teas. A feast for the senses and perfect for food souvenirs.
6. Bosphorus Cruise
Seeing Istanbul from the water is an unforgettable experience. Cruise along the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia, passing Ottoman palaces, ancient fortresses, wooden yali mansions and the iconic bridges. Public ferries are cheap; private tours offer more flexibility.
7. Galata Tower
A medieval stone tower dating from 1348, offering panoramic 360-degree views over Istanbul, the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. One of the city's most recognisable landmarks.
8. Dolmabahçe Palace
The lavish 19th-century palace that replaced Topkapı as the Ottoman imperial residence. A stunning blend of European Baroque and Ottoman architecture, with an extraordinary interior of crystal chandeliers, gold leaf and marble. Guided tours only.
9. Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayı)
An extraordinary underground Byzantine cistern dating from the 6th century, supported by 336 marble columns. Atmospheric, mysterious and recently renovated with impressive lighting and art installations.
10. Istiklal Avenue & Beyoglu
Istanbul's most famous pedestrian street, stretching 1.4 km from Taksim Square to Galata. Lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, cinemas and historic buildings, with a vintage tram running its length. The surrounding Beyoglu neighbourhood is the heart of modern Istanbul's nightlife and dining scene.
Best Neighbourhoods to Explore
- Sultanahmet – the historic heart, all the major sights within walking distance
- Beyoglu & Taksim – modern Istanbul, restaurants, bars, nightlife, Istiklal Avenue
- Karakoy & Galata – trendy, artsy, great coffee shops and galleries
- Besiktas & Ortakoy – lively waterfront neighbourhood, great food scene, Bosphorus views
- Kadikoy (Asia Side) – bohemian, local atmosphere, excellent food market and restaurants
- Balat – colourful historic Jewish and Greek quarter, great for photography
Where to Stay in Istanbul
Sultanahmet – best for first-time visitors, walking distance to all major sights, wide range of hotels from budget to luxury.
Beyoglu/Taksim – best for nightlife, dining and shopping, more modern atmosphere.
Besiktas/Nisantasi – upscale residential area, luxury hotels, great restaurants, less touristy.
Kadikoy (Asia Side) – authentic local experience, excellent food scene, quieter than the European side.
Where to Eat in Istanbul
- Karakoy Gulluoglu – Istanbul's most famous baklava, a must-visit
- Ciya Sofrasi, Kadikoy – legendary restaurant serving rare Anatolian dishes, a foodie pilgrimage
- Mikla Restaurant – rooftop fine dining with stunning Bosphorus views
- Hamdi Restaurant – excellent kebabs with Golden Horn views near the Spice Bazaar
- Balık Ekmek boats – grilled fish sandwiches from boats at Eminonu – a classic Istanbul street food experience
- Kadinbudu kofte – try traditional Turkish meatballs at any local lokanta
Best Time to Visit Istanbul
The best time to visit Istanbul is April–June and September–October – mild temperatures, fewer crowds and lower prices than peak summer.
- April–May: 15–22°C – Ideal ✅
- June: 22–28°C – Great ✅
- July–August: 28–35°C – Hot, very busy 🟡
- September–October: 18–25°C – Ideal ✅
- November–March: 5–12°C – Cool, fewer tourists, possible rain 🟡
Getting Around Istanbul
- Metro & tram – efficient and cheap, covers most tourist areas
- Istanbulkart – rechargeable transport card, works on all public transport
- Ferry – scenic and practical way to cross between Europe and Asia
- Taxi – widely available, insist on the meter
- Private transfer – most convenient for airport arrivals and longer journeys
Travel Tips for Istanbul
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques – cover shoulders and knees, women cover hair
- Remove shoes before entering mosques
- Buy an Istanbulkart on arrival – saves money on all public transport
- Beware of carpet shop touts in Sultanahmet – a friendly invitation for tea often leads to a hard sell
- The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays
- Book Topkapı Palace tickets online to avoid long queues
- Traffic in Istanbul can be severe – allow extra time for airport transfers
Getting Back to the Airport
When it's time to leave, a private transfer ensures a stress-free and timely journey back to the airport.
👉 Book your return transfer to Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökçen
Travel with confidence – TTT Transfer provides private, fixed-price airport transfers across Turkey. Professional drivers, meet & greet service and flight tracking included.
