Travel guide · Türkiye
Istanbul: what to see and when to go
Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus, a city of imperial mosques, Byzantine churches and bazaars that was the capital of two empires. Its food, from street simit to fish sandwiches by the water, and its ferries make it one of the world's great cities.
What to see and do in Istanbul
Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque
A 1,500-year-old basilica turned mosque, facing the six minarets of the Blue Mosque.
Topkapı Palace
The Ottoman sultans' palace, harem and treasury, above the Bosphorus.
Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar
Thousands of shops under historic vaults, and the scent of spices by the water.
Bosphorus ferry
Cross to Asia on a public ferry for the price of a metro ticket.
Balat, Karaköy and Kadıköy
Colourful streets, cafés, and the food market on the Asian side.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months: Apr – Nov.
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 3 hr, 45 min | ≈ €230 · See flights |
| New York | 11 hr | ≈ €550 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 14 hr, 45 min | ≈ €640 · See flights |
| Dubai | 4 hr, 30 min | ≈ €260 · See flights |
| Singapore | 11 hr, 45 min | ≈ €570 · See flights |
| Sydney | 19 hr, 45 min | ≈ €760 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €420 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- Türkiye
- Currency
- Turkish Lira
- Good for
- city · culture · food · nightlife
- How long to stay
- 3–5 days
- Where to stay
- Sultanahmet for the monuments; Karaköy, Galata or Beyoğlu for restaurants and nightlife.Find a place to stay in Istanbul
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Istanbul, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €230 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Istanbul (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
- Travel insuranceMedical, luggage and cancellation (opens in a new tab)
- Internet on arrivalData eSIM, no roaming bills (opens in a new tab)
Links open a sample search (Fri, Apr 2 – Mon, Apr 5, 2 people): change it on each site. If you book through these links we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It helps us keep improving diceando. Legal notice
Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Istanbul and when should you go?
The most pleasant months: Apr – Nov. Average highs range from 9° in January to 29° in July.
How many days do you need in Istanbul?
3 to 5 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Istanbul cost?
Accommodation runs at around €60 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €420 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 3 hr, 45 min.
Where should you stay in Istanbul?
Sultanahmet for the monuments; Karaköy, Galata or Beyoğlu for restaurants and nightlife.
