Istanbul

Travel Guide

Istanbul
Istanbul
Istanbul
Istanbul
Istanbul
A delightful fusion of European and Asian culture awaits in the capital of Turkey. A fantastic array of historic buildings intersperse a dynamic, modern city.

Istanbul offers the best of old and new, of both East and West. Shoppers will be kept occupied by the best department stores and luxury boutiques, while the city also displays its rich heritage with the many bazaars, mosques, and palaces. The warm climate of the eastern Mediterranean makes this a very easy place to enjoy and to fall in love with.

Historically, Istanbul is identified as the point where Europe meets Asia, at the crossing of the Bosphurus Strait, and has a population of over 13 million people. It was also the centre of power for the Byzantine Empire. More recently the Ottoman Empire, whose rule stretched at one point from Persia to the gates of Vienna, made it its capital. Ottoman rule was in turn succeeded by the establishment of modern-day Turkey in 1923.

All of this rich history is reflected in the complex and fascinating development of the city's diverse built heritage. First on many itineraries is a visit to the Old City where you'll trace the repeated rises and falls of Istanbul and its empires among the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı), the Hippodrome (Hipodrom) and the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque). The Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) – a survivor from the 14th century – offers views over these and much of the other architecture of interest throughout the city. The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Carsı) is the beating heart of life here, and is also a wonderful place to pick up souvenirs. Miniaturk allows you to see the city in miniature, while you can enjoy some well-earned cool chillout time at the underground Basilica Cistern.

Crossing the straits into the New City, you are met by a very different experience – modern-day Turkey. Contemporary Western design is to be found in the many skyscrapers, the shopping areas and the vibrant nightclubs. Taksim Square is the centre of this part of the city, with business executives rubbing shoulders with the cool young people of Istanbul.

Public transport is very easily accessible – an Istanbulkart allows you access to it all. Make good use of it, and see the Beylerbeyi Palace from the ferry across the Bosphurus Strait.

Istanbul offers centuries of history and change, alongside all of the conveniences and attractions of a modern city. The past and the present are linked in this fascinating melting pot of cultures.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Blue Mosque featuring a mosque, a pond and a fountain

Sultanahmet

Enjoy the popular shops in Sultanahmet. Blue Mosque is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Sultanahmet Station or Cemberlitas Station to see more of Istanbul.

Sultanahmet
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Taksim

3/5(2 area reviews)

Taksim Square and Nevizade Street are top sights in Taksim, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Taksim Station or Findikli Station to see more sights in the area.

Taksim
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Kadıköy

Spend some time visiting places like Kalamış Marina while getting to know Kadıköy, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Bahariye Station or Acibadem Station to see more of the area.

Kadıköy
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Istanbul City Center

Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Istanbul City Center. Check out top attractions like Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.

Istanbul City Center
Bosphorus Bridge showing a bridge, a river or creek and a coastal town

Beşiktaş

Travelers choose Beşiktaş for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Nispetiye Station or Etiler Station and check out top sights like Zorlu Performing Arts Center.

Beşiktaş
Istanbul showing landscape views, a sunset and general coastal views

Fatih

4/5(2 area reviews)

Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are top sights in Fatih, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more sights in the area.

Fatih
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul

The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul

5 out of 5
Suzer Plaza, Askerocagi Caddesi, No:6, Elmadag/Sisli, Istanbul
The price is P14,680 per night from Aug 19 to Aug 20
P14,680
P16,442 total
Aug 19 - Aug 20
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,003 reviews)
"Amazing service and staff, great restaurants, comfortable and spacious rooms, great pool"

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025

The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class

Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class

Piyer Loti Cad No:7, Istanbul, Istanbul
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P7,710 per night from Aug 15 to Aug 16
P7,710
P8,635 total
Aug 15 - Aug 16
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant in our reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (2,043 reviews)
"Rooms, roof top, and the reception very nicely decorated. We were leaving very early and were offered tasety sandwiches and drinks."

Reviewed on Aug 4, 2025

Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali

Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali

5 out of 5
Inonu Cad. No 22, Kucukyali Maltepe, Istanbul
The price is P6,068 per night from Aug 11 to Aug 12
P6,068
P6,796 total
Aug 11 - Aug 12
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,061 reviews)
"Very good service and good to front desk I arrive early in the morning and they help me to go to my room and I’m thankful to that"

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025

Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Grace Of Golden Stay Suit Taksim

Grace Of Golden Stay Suit Taksim

Atlama Sk., Istanbul, Istanbul
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free breakfast, a 24-hour front desk, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions ...
7.6/10 Good! (9 reviews)
"The staff's interest and kindness was very good. Our satisfaction was integrated with the comfort of our room and the delicious breakfast. The facility is in a quiet, noiseless, safe location. With all these positive experiences we have had, we give full points and recommend it."

Reviewed on Jun 11, 2025

Grace Of Golden Stay Suit Taksim
Elits Suits

Elits Suits

3 Osmanli Bulvari, yenisehir mahçosmanli bulvari.no13, Istanbul, pendik
Stay at this aparthotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, room service, and a sauna. Popular attractions Viaport Outlet Shopping and Turkish-Hungarian Friendship ...
5.6/10 (172 reviews)
"Very good people"

Reviewed on Jan 13, 2025

Elits Suits
G Tower Residences

G Tower Residences

Mimar Sinan Cd 35, Istanbul, Istanbul
Book a stay at this business-friendly residence in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (315 reviews)
"Thank you Aras the best reception man in G Tower . All time helped me to get my best apartment with the great view, Aras is very professional with finding solutions to issues I asked for , I have been here in G Tower for 50 days. Aras and the team of G Tower helped me to stay comfortable."

Reviewed on Aug 2, 2025

G Tower Residences
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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