Istanbul in 6 pieces
Where Europe meets Asia across the Bosphorus.
A city of empires straddling two continents — imperial mosques and bazaars on one shore, modern Asia on the other, joined by ferries across the Bosphorus.
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We'll fill in the flight, a stay for every night and a car for the whole trip — you tweak and book the pieces.
The six pieces
Fly into Istanbul
Istanbul's main gateway is Istanbul (IST). Compare fares from your home airport and pick the piece that fits.
Find flightsWhere to stay
Sultanahmet for the sights; Beyoğlu/Karaköy for nightlife and design hotels.
See staysGetting around
Trams and ferries are best; traffic makes a car more trouble than it's worth.
Compare carsHagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
Two monumental domes facing each other across Sultanahmet square.
Find ticketsGrand & Spice Bazaars
Centuries-old covered markets of carpets, lamps and Turkish delight.
Find ticketsBosphorus ferry
Sail between Europe and Asia past palaces and waterside mansions.
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Where to stay in Istanbul
Sultanahmet for the sights; Beyoğlu/Karaköy for nightlife and design hotels.
On the big sights — Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
Around Galata and Taksim — nightlife and views.
The Asian side — local, foodie and less touristy.
Getting from the airport
Istanbul Airport (IST) is far out (40 km+) on the European side — use the Havaist bus or the M11 metro; Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) serves the Asian side with bus and metro links.
What to eat in Istanbul
Feast on kebabs and meze, a long Turkish breakfast, fresh fish by the Bosphorus, baklava and endless çay.
Istanbul travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
April–May and September–October for mild, walkable weather.
How many days do you need in Istanbul?
A long weekend (3–4 days) covers the highlights in this guide; add a day or two if you want the day trips and a slower pace.
How do I get from the airport to Istanbul?
Istanbul Airport (IST) is far out (40 km+) on the European side — use the Havaist bus or the M11 metro; Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) serves the Asian side with bus and metro links.
Where should I stay in Istanbul?
Sultanahmet — On the big sights — Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Beyoğlu — Around Galata and Taksim — nightlife and views. Kadıköy — The Asian side — local, foodie and less touristy.
What should I eat in Istanbul?
Feast on kebabs and meze, a long Turkish breakfast, fresh fish by the Bosphorus, baklava and endless çay.
Do you need a car in Istanbul?
Trams and ferries are best; traffic makes a car more trouble than it's worth.
How do I book a trip to Istanbul?
Add the flight, a stay for every night and a rental car on our Trip Board, then book each piece directly with our travel partners — you pay them, never us.