Istanbul

Turkey

Safety rating
6.5/10
Best time to visit
April–May and September–October. Summer is hot and crowded. Winters are mild but rainy.
Population
15.5M

Overview

Istanbul straddles two continents and thousands of years — the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, and Bosphorus create a travel experience like no other.

Top attractions

Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace, Bosphorus Cruise, Galata Tower, Spice Bazaar

Getting around

Metro, tram, and funicular. Ferries across the Bosphorus. Istanbulkart covers all transit.

Airports near Istanbul

Istanbul essentials