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Istanbul sits on two continents, with Byzantine churches, Ottoman palaces, busy bazaars and ferries crossing the Bosphorus every few minutes. This guide covers the practical side: getting there for less, getting around, and spending your money well.
Getting to Istanbul
Istanbul has two airports. Istanbul Airport (IST) is on the European side and is the hub for Turkish Airlines. Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) is on the Asian side and is popular with low-cost airlines. Our route guides compare them in detail:
From the airport to the city
- From IST: the M11 metro and Havaist airport buses run to the city.
- From SAW: the M4 metro runs to Kadikoy, and Havabus coaches go to Taksim and Kadikoy.
- Taxis and transfers: available at both airports. A pre-booked transfer fixes the price in advance.
Where to stay
| Area | Best for |
|---|---|
| Sultanahmet | Walking to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace |
| Beyoglu, Galata and Karakoy | Cafes, nightlife, design hotels, views over the Golden Horn |
| Taksim | Central transport hub, many hotels at every price |
| Kadikoy (Asian side) | Local atmosphere, food markets, lower prices |
| Besiktas | Bosphorus waterfront, lively student area |
Getting around
Buy an Istanbulkart, the rechargeable transport card. It works on the metro, trams, buses, the funiculars and the public ferries, and it is much cheaper than paying for single tickets. Ferries are the most scenic way to cross between Europe and Asia.
Top sights
- Hagia Sophia: the great Byzantine church, now a mosque. Dress modestly and check visiting hours, as foreign visitors pay an entrance fee.
- Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): famous for its blue tiles. Closed to visitors during prayer times.
- Topkapi Palace: the home of the Ottoman sultans, with views over the Bosphorus.
- Basilica Cistern: an atmospheric underground Byzantine water reservoir.
- Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar: two of the oldest covered markets in the world.
- Galata Tower: panoramic views over the old city and the Golden Horn.
- A Bosphorus cruise: public ferries are cheap, or book a guided cruise.
Money-saving tips
- Use the public ferries for a cheap Bosphorus trip.
- Eat where locals eat: simit (sesame bread rings), fish sandwiches by the Galata Bridge and lokantas (canteen-style restaurants) are tasty and cheap.
- Consider a museum pass if you plan to visit several paid museums. Compare the price with the tickets you actually need.
- Pay in Turkish lira when a card machine asks, to avoid poor exchange rates.
Easy day trips
- Princes’ Islands: car-free islands reached by ferry, about 1 h 30 min away.
- Asian side: Kadikoy market, Moda seafront and Uskudar.
- Bosphorus villages: Ortakoy, Bebek and Anadolu Kavagi with its castle views.
Before you go
- Mobile data: a Turkey eSIM gets you online as soon as you land.
- Insurance: get travel insurance that covers medical costs.
- Visas: UK and most EU citizens can usually visit without a visa for up to 90 days. Check the official rules for your nationality.
Start with the flight, the biggest cost of the trip.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Istanbul?
Three to four days covers the main sights and a Bosphorus trip. Five days lets you add the Asian side and the Princes’ Islands.
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
April to early June and September to October offer pleasant weather and smaller crowds than midsummer.