Discover Istanbul

East meets West in this mesmerizing city of mosques, bazaars, and the breathtaking Bosphorus skyline.

✨ Why Visit Istanbul, Turkey?

Istanbul is one of the most captivating cities on Earth — the only metropolis that spans two continents, blending Europe and Asia, ancient empires and modern life, in one unforgettable experience. From the grand domes of the Hagia Sophia to the buzzing bazaars of the Grand Bazaar, every corner of Istanbul tells a story. With a skyline dotted by minarets, a food scene bursting with flavor, and sunsets that light up the Bosphorus, Istanbul is a place where history and hospitality go hand in hand.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Istanbul, Turkey

The best time to visit Istanbul is in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November), when temperatures are pleasant, and the city is buzzing without being overcrowded. Summer (July–August) is hot and busy, especially around major sites. Winter brings chilly weather and fewer tourists — ideal for quieter museum visits and cozy tea breaks by the sea.

🧭 Top Things to Do in Istanbul, Turkey

🕌 Visit the Hagia Sophia, a magnificent structure that has been a church, a mosque, and a museum
🧿 Explore the Blue Mosque, known for its six minarets and intricate blue tiles
🏰 Wander through Topkapi Palace, the opulent home of Ottoman sultans
🛍️ Get lost in the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets
🌉 Take a Bosphorus cruise, passing under bridges and between continents
🍽️ Sample Turkish delights in Karaköy or grab street food like simit and balık ekmek
🎨 Discover local art, boutiques, and cafés in the hip neighborhood of Balat

💸 Local Currency in Istanbul, Turkey

The official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but carry cash for bazaars, local eateries, and small purchases. ATMs are easily found throughout the city.

🚖 Transportation in Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul has two major airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side. The city’s public transport network is extensive and includes metros, trams, buses, ferries, and funiculars. The Istanbulkart is your best friend — a reloadable card for all transit. Taxis are common but may overcharge, so ride-hailing apps like BiTaksi are more reliable.

💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Istanbul, Turkey

✅ Buy an Istanbulkart for easy and affordable public transport across the city
✅ Dress modestly when visiting mosques — bring a scarf if needed
✅ Try a traditional Turkish hammam experience for the ultimate relaxation
✅ Expect to bargain in markets like the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar
✅ Sunrise and sunset views from Galata Tower or Çamlıca Hill are unforgettable

🏞️ Top Day Trips from Istanbul, Turkey

🛳️ Princes’ Islands – A short ferry ride away, these peaceful islands offer bike rides, beach spots, and car-free charm
🌲 Belgrad Forest – A nature escape on the city’s outskirts, perfect for picnics and fresh air
🏛️ Bursa – The first Ottoman capital, known for its mosques, silk markets, and thermal baths
🕌 Edirne – A historic border city full of Ottoman architecture and famed for the Selimiye Mosque
🏖️ Şile & Ağva – Small Black Sea beach towns just a couple hours from the city

📸 Instagram Moments from Istanbul, Turkey

📷 Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque from a rooftop café
📸 Lantern-lit alleys of the Grand Bazaar
🌅 Golden sunset over the Bosphorus with ferries in motion
🕌 View from Galata Tower over a sea of domes and minarets
📲 Follow us on Instagram: @intoholidays

📬 Plan Your Istanbul City Adventure

📧 info@intoholidays.com
📞 +44 777 1951895
📱 Message us on WhatsApp to book Bosphorus cruises, guided tours, or Turkey-wide itineraries