Istanbul Travel Guide

Welcome to Istanbul, a city where East meets West, where history and modernity collide, and where you can find everything from ancient mosques to bustling bazaars.

If you're looking for a cultural immersion, Istanbul is the perfect place. Explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Sample delicious Turkish food, from kebabs to baklava. Take a walk through the Sultanahmet neighborhood, where you can take a tour of the city's most iconic landmarks: Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

From amazing outdoor activities to enjoy in summer, like boat rides across the Bosphorus Strait and taking in the stunning views from atop the Galata Tower, to ideas for romantic and family-friendly vacations, you'll find it all in this guide to Istanbul.

Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or simply exploring this mesmerizing city and finding fun things to do, Istanbul is sure to have something for you. Here are some ideas to start planning your trip.

Istanbul is home to some of the best museums in Turkey, and visitors can immerse themselves in contemporary and classical art. From the Istanbul Modern, showcasing modern Turkish art, to the Pera Museum with its impressive Orientalist paintings, the city’s offerings are vast.

Art galleries in Istanbul offer various exhibitions, reflecting the city’s artistic landscape. The Sakıp Sabancı Museum, set along the Bosphorus, presents a mix of traditional and modern works, while the Arter space focuses on contemporary pieces. These Istanbul art museums highlight the city’s rich artistic heritage and its role as a center of global art.

Cari B.

A city where modern festivities intertwine with cultural traditions, Istanbul is a city with plenty to do and see year-round. But celebrating New Year’s Eve in Istanbul is even more spectacular, with the electric atmosphere of Taksim Square, the charm of a Bosphorus cruise under the fireworks, or the intimacy and warmth of a meyhane (local tavern). Enjoy views from rooftop dining at a restaurant with live entertainment, or explore Kadıköy for a more authentic and less crowded celebration. With so many things to do in Istanbul on New Year’s Eve, this guide provides you with the best options.

Nithya Konduru

Istanbul is a city where romance and history blend seamlessly. With a rich tapestry of vibrant culture, scenic vistas, and ancient charm, the city offers endless romantic things to do in Istanbul. From breathtaking sunset views atop iconic landmarks to intimate moments in lush gardens, each experience adds a touch of magic to a couple's journey. Whether you're exploring hidden districts, sampling traditional foods, or immersing yourself in local arts, Istanbul opens its heart to those seeking romantic and fun things to do. Here are some ways to weave your love story into Istanbul’s enchanting backdrop.

Sian McQuillan

From immersing yourself in ancient Sufi traditions to sampling flavorful Turkish delights, a weekend in Istanbul will surely be full of adventure for any traveler. Whether you want to learn about the fascinating history of Turkey’s capital at the iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque or shop for Turkish souvenirs at the famous Grand Bazaar, you’ll have plenty of things to see and do in Istanbul. So, discover this vibrant city that marks the meeting point between continents with the help of this ultimate Istanbul weekend itinerary.

Insider guides

Art Museums In Istanbul

Cari B.

New Year’s Eve in Istanbul

Nithya Konduru

Romantic Things To Do In Istanbul

Sian McQuillan

A Long Weekend in Istanbul

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Insider guides

Art Museums In Istanbul

Cari B.

New Year’s Eve in Istanbul

Nithya Konduru

Romantic Things To Do In Istanbul

Sian McQuillan

A Long Weekend in Istanbul