France
Paris
Paris captivates visitors with its timeless elegance, from the iron lattice of the Eiffel Tower to the hushed galleries ...
Read guideTurkey
Istanbul Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to Istanbul — top highlights, practical tips, budget info, and the best time to visit.
Daily Budget
$70-140 per day
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Language
Turkish
Timezone
TRT (UTC+3)
About Istanbul
Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents, and that geographic distinction mirrors its cultural richness. Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and modern galleries coexist across its hilly landscape. The Hagia Sophia, a cathedral turned mosque turned museum turned mosque again, encapsulates the city's layered history in a single building.
The food is a highlight in itself — fresh fish sandwiches from boats bobbing on the Golden Horn, simit vendors on every corner, and elaborate meze spreads in meyhane taverns. The Grand Bazaar and Spice Market overflow with color, scent, and the energy of centuries of trade. A cup of Turkish tea on a rooftop terrace overlooking the Bosphorus is one of travel's great simple pleasures.
Key Highlights
1Hagia Sophia and its stunning Byzantine mosaics
2Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
3Topkapi Palace and the Harem
4Grand Bazaar with over 4,000 shops
5Bosphorus cruise between Europe and Asia
6Basilica Cistern underground water chamber
Best Time to Visit
April to May and September to November bring mild temperatures and comfortable sightseeing weather. Summer is hot and crowded; winter is cold but atmospheric.
Budget Guide
Expect to spend around $70-140 per day per person when visiting Istanbul. This covers accommodation, meals, local transport, and entrance fees. Budget travelers can spend less by choosing hostels or guesthouses and eating at local spots, while luxury travelers should plan for considerably more.
Travel Tips
1
Get an Istanbulkart for affordable travel on ferries, trams, metro, and buses.
2
Women should carry a headscarf for mosque visits — they're sometimes provided at the entrance.
3
Haggling is expected in the Grand Bazaar but not in regular shops and restaurants.
4
Try the Asian side (Kadikoy) for a more local, less touristy experience with excellent food.
5
Be cautious of unsolicited 'friendly' locals near Sultanahmet who may steer you to overpriced shops.