- CountryTurkey
- Best forHistory, food, culture
- Best timeApril to June and September to October
- CurrencyTurkish lira
Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, a megacity, constituting the country's economic, cultural, and historical center. With a population of over 15 million, it is home to 18% of the population of Turkey. Istanbul is among the largest cities in Europe and in the world by population.Source: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Where to stay in Istanbul: hotel tips
Choosing the right neighbourhood matters more than the hotel itself. These are the best areas to base yourself in Istanbul:
1
Sultanahmet
Walk to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque
2
Beyoğlu / Karaköy
Nightlife, galleries and cafés
3
Kadıköy (Asian side)
Local food scene and markets
Hotel booking tips
- Book central stays near public transport to save time and taxi fares.
- Choose free-cancellation rates during April to June and September to October, the busiest season.
- Check recent reviews for noise, air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
Top landmarks in Istanbul
Map of Istanbul and around
LandmarkCityClick a pin for details
Getting around
Combine walking, public transport and ride-hailing apps for city sightseeing. For day trips and onward travel, compare trains, buses and ferries, or hire a car where roads are quiet.
