Insights
Sultanahmet
Historic and cultural heart of Istanbul, perfect for first-time visitors.
Karakoy
Trendy neighborhood with great nightlife, shops, and restaurants.
Galata
Historic area with energetic nightlife and iconic landmarks.
Sisli
Upper-class and business district with various amenities.
Beyoglu
Vibrant area with restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Eminonu
Bustling area ideal for families, close to major tourist attractions and markets.
Nisantasi
Luxury shopping and upscale residential area.
Besiktas
Commercial and residential area with beautiful Bosphorus views.
Beyazit
Affordable accommodations near main tourist sites.
Cihangir
Charming area with narrow streets and a bohemian vibe.
Kadikoy
Popular with locals, offers an authentic Turkish experience.
Moda
Budget-friendly area with a local feel and trendy dining options.
Sultanbeyli
Dolapdere
Kuştepe
Gülsuyu
Tarlabaşı
Esenyurt
Gaziosmanpaşa
Kasımpaşa
Laleli-Aksaray
Hagia Sophia
Historic architectural marvel that has served as a cathedral and mosque.
Credit: Adli Wahid, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Topkapi Palace
Former Ottoman sultans' residence, now a museum with rich collections.
Blue Mosque
Mosque known for its blue tiles and six minarets, officially Sultan Ahmed Mosque.
Grand Bazaar
One of the world's oldest and largest covered markets with thousands of shops.
Basilica Cistern
Ancient underground water reservoir with impressive columns and ambiance.
Galata Tower
Medieval stone tower offering panoramic views of Istanbul.
Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)
Vibrant market specializing in spices, herbs, and local delicacies.
Dolmabahçe Palace
Lavish 19th-century palace blending European and Ottoman architectural styles.
Süleymaniye Mosque
Magnificent mosque known for its grand architecture and serene courtyard.
Chora Church (Kariye Museum)
Museum famed for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.
Istiklal Avenue
Bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Ortaköy Mosque
Picturesque mosque located by the Bosphorus, popular for photos.
Bosphorus Cruise
Scenic boat tour along the strait separating Europe and Asia.
Taksim Square
Major public square and hub for cultural events and gatherings.
Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Industrial museum showcasing transport, industry, and communications exhibits.
Emirgan Park
Expansive park known for its tulip displays, especially during the Tulip Festival.
Princes' Islands
Car-free islands offering tranquil retreats with historic buildings.
Rumeli Fortress
Medieval fortress built by the Ottomans, overlooking the Bosphorus.
Miniatürk
Open-air museum featuring miniature models of Turkish landmarks.
Maiden's Tower
Historic tower on a small islet in the Bosphorus, shrouded in legends.
SAW
Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport
IST
İstanbul Airport