Istanbul

Istanbul

Turkey

East meets West where the Blue Mosque faces Hagia Sophia, fishermen cast lines from the Galata Bridge, and tea is always brewing. Learn more about Istanbul

Things to Do in Istanbul

All tours
Chora Mosque & Balat Walking Tour with Bosphorus Sunset Cruise tour image
Walking & Biking Tours
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

This guided tour starts with a 1-hour visit to Kariye (Chora) Church, a remarkable Byzantine church celebrated for its exquisite mosaics and frescoes. After exploring Kariye, you will head to Balat, a vibrant neighborhood full of colorful historic houses, churches, synagogues, and lively streets reflecting local culture. Following the Balat visit, enjoy a 2-hour Bosphorus cruise, taking in breathtaking views of both Istanbul’s European and Asian sides. Along the way, you will pass by famous landmarks including Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Anadolu Fortress, Kuleli Palace, Küçüksu Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, and the iconic Bosphorus Bridges. This tour perfectly combines history, culture, architecture, and scenic beauty, offering a thorough introduction to Istanbul’s rich heritage and the stunning Bosphorus coastline. A professional guide provides detailed explanations in English at all sites.

From
€100.00
per person
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Istanbul Fine Dining Afternoon in 3 Historic Venues Private Tour tour image
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(10 reviews)

Embark on an unparalleled fine dining journey through Istanbul's rich Ottoman cuisine exploring historic venues transformed into exquisite establishments. Elevate your culinary adventure with a Luxurious Private Istanbul Food Tour! Step into a century-old restaurant within the historic bazaar, savoring cold appetizers and local wine. Continue the gastronomic odyssey in ancient cisterns, once serving the Sultan's palace, relishing hot appetizers paired with a curated wine. Culminate your experience on the historical Hamam's roofs, where a Michelin Guide-recognized chef (2023&2024) showcases mastery. Enjoy a sumptuous main course and decadent dessert, perfectly complemented by wine and coffee. The meticulously crafted menu includes cold and hot starters, a main dish, 3 glasses of local quality wine, dessert, and coffee. Note that restaurant selection may vary based on your booking time, preserving historical charm and ensuring a high-quality menu. Join Istanbul Luxury Food Tour!

From
€411.00
per person
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Most famous sites of Istanbul  tour image
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

You don't need to go inline and Wait for hours as a tour guide with an official license approved by the Ministry of tourism I get tickets without getting in line. You will get the see

From
€350.00
per person
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Row of traditional mud-brick beehive-shaped houses with pottery and wooden wheels displayed outside under a cloudy sky
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(19 reviews)

Thanks to this special program, you can make a daily visit to the zero point of faith. Şanlıurfa is known as the city of prophets, moreover, Göbeklitepe, the first temple built by human hands, is located here. With its mixed demographics and colorful traditions, the city is the pearl of Mesopotamia. Do not delay any longer this visit, which will change your perspective on the world.

From
€700.00
per person
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Aerial view of historic mosques with domes and minarets at sunset by the sea with ships in the water
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(19 reviews)

Our travel agency and official tour guides are mainly and strictly focused on our guest's satisfaction. ‍♂️ Walk Through Living History – Instead of just visiting sites, immerse yourself in the city's soul with a journey through the same streets where emperors, sultans, and traders once walked. Engaging Storytelling – Our expert guides don’t just share facts—they bring history to life with captivating tales, legends, and hidden secrets of the Old City. ️ Exclusive Insights – Uncover lesser-known details and fascinating stories about the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Hippodrome’s ancient monuments. Iconic & Hidden Gems – Capture breathtaking photos of Istanbul’s most famous sites while also exploring hidden corners that most tourists miss. Feel the city's heartbeat, hear its whispers, and step into its rich past. Book now for a truly unforgettable experience! ️ Tour Guides can skip the ticket lines, be aware can not skip security control line

From
€156.01
per person
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Ancient underground stone columns and arches reflected in still water under warm lighting
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

❌ The entrance fee is not included and the traveller may purchase the ticket directly at the museum ticket office. ✅ This is a private guided tour ✅ No waiting in the line! “Enjoy the flexibility of a private guided tour and fully immerse yourself in the Basilica Cistern with your local licensed tour guide.”

From
€13.83
per person
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Group of seven women posing in front of a historic building with domes and minarets on a sunny day
Editor's Pick
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

Are you ready to discover the beauties of Istanbul and Cappadocia with local Spanish-speaking guides? There are no 14-hour bus rides! Our tour includes return domestic flights between Istanbul and Cappadocia and airport transfers! Opportunity to stay in a cave hotel in Cappadocia! Don't join bus tours with more than 40 people! Our small group tours - maximum 12 people! Choose us and enjoy Turkey!

From
€1600.00
per person
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Private Tour of Ottoman and Byzantine History in Istanbul tour image
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(22 reviews)

Enjoy unique experiences with expert guides. Comfort, safety, and quality guaranteed. Relax and enjoy; we'll take care of everything. Choose the unforgettable experience and explore without limits!

From
€43.34
per person
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Two people smiling indoors holding small cups of coffee or tea
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

Discover the uniqueness of our Turkish coffee workshop where cultural immersion meets hands-on experience. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic encounters, families interested in local traditions, and anyone eager to delve into Turkish culture, our workshop offers more than just coffee tasting. You'll gain invaluable insights into the art of Turkish coffee-making, explore the deep-rooted significance of this beverage in Turkish customs, and enjoy delightful Turkish desserts accompanied by traditional music. Engage in lively discussions about coffee lore and traditions, uncovering fascinating stories that add depth to your understanding. Cap off your experience with a personalized fortune reading from your coffee cup and take home special gifts, ensuring a memorable and enriching adventure in Turkish hospitality. Workshop sessions are not fixed by default. As a result of discussion, the event is held at a time that is convenient for both parties. We have flexibility.

From
€14.00
per person
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Istanbul Street Art Experience with Local Artists at Home Garden tour image
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(10 reviews)

Imagine you are travelling in a city to discover graffiti works of great local artist. How bout you actually meet the local graffiti artists and paint with them? Best part is, you do this at a genuine athmosphere as the home of these artists. This makes this experience one of the most unique, authentic experience that you can find in Istanbul. Peep and Shimo, couple graffiti artists, are inviting you to the garden of their home, to both push your creativity limits through Graffiti Art and let you experience Turkish home culture. Come to their home, have a tea, coffee, talk about Turkish culture, learn your culture and then create together.

From
€69.34
per person
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Hot air balloons floating over rocky landscape at sunrise with clear sky
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(10 reviews)

This unique 5-day tour offers a seamless journey through Turkey's most iconic destinations. Unlike standard tours, we provide a completely hassle-free experience, with all domestic flights, airport transfers, and top-tier hotel reservations handled for you. Explore Istanbul's vibrant history and Cappadocia's surreal landscapes in small, intimate groups, ensuring a personal touch. With daily departures and the flexibility to add an unforgettable Hot Air Balloon ride, you can customize this trip to fit your dreams. This package isn't just a tour; it's a perfectly crafted, stress-free adventure.

From
€1400.00
per person
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group of tourists walking on a paved square near historic buildings on a sunny day
Cultural & Historical
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

Istanbul is very chaotic and going through a well-thought city route that covers a lot of good spots both hidden and must-see ones is a great opportunity to make. It would save a great time for the visitor and also localize the experience. You can learn a lot about the current news, trends, culture which might be broader and more open-minded that what you could find available on a blog post or a old time youtube vlog.

From
€86.46
per person
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Places to Stay in Istanbul

Hilton Istanbul Bomonti accommodation image
Hotel
Istanbul

5-star hotel in Şişli with Bosphorus views and highly rated guest comfort and service.

€135.03
per night
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The Peninsula Istanbul accommodation image
Hotel
Istanbul

5-star hotel in Karaköy with a signature infinity pool overlooking the Bosphorus. High guest rating of 9.2/10 and luxury rooms with waterfront views.

€625.89
per night
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The Grand Tarabya Managed by Accor accommodation image
Hotel
Istanbul

5-star waterfront hotel in Sariyer with top spa facilities and highly rated comfort and cleanliness.

€202.67
per night
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AJWA Sultanahmet - Preferred Hotels LVX Collection accommodation image
Hotel
Istanbul

AJWA Sultanahmet delivers Ottoman elegance near the Blue Mosque for $697/night.

€696.74
per night
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Cronton Design Hotel accommodation image
Hotel
Istanbul

Cronton Design Hotel in Fatih features comfort and great value near historic sites from €201 per night.

€201.24
per night
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Tzl Suites Hotel Nişantaşı accommodation image
Hotel
Istanbul

5-star hotel in Şişli district with a 9.2 guest rating, offering attentive staff and high-end facilities.

€230.24
per night
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JW Marriott Hotel Istanbul Marmara Sea accommodation image
Hotel
Istanbul

JW Marriott Istanbul Marmara Sea features sea-view balconies and scores 9/10 for comfort and cleanliness.

€194.20
per night
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Mula Hotel accommodation image
Hotel
Istanbul

5-star hotel in Fatih, Istanbul, rated 9/10 by guests. Luxury accommodation within walking distance of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

€511.14
per night
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Address Istanbul accommodation image
Hotel
Istanbul

5-star hotel in Uskudar with remarkable rooftop views, high comfort, and excellent cleanliness. Rated 9/10 by guests.

€580.34
per night
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Istanbul Travel Guides

All guides
Cycling in Istanbul: Routes, Rentals and Tips
Adventure & Outdoors

Cycling in Istanbul: Routes, Rentals and Tips

Cycling in Istanbul has a distinctive way to see the city. find routes, rentals, and tips for an enriching cycling visit.

Istanbul Water Sports and Activities Guide
Adventure & Outdoors

Istanbul Water Sports and Activities Guide

The Bosphorus Strait connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, spanning 31 kilometers through Istanbul. Kayaking tours along this route typically cost around 400 TRY per person, with average water temperatures ranging from 15°C in spring to 25°C in summer, making it ideal for water sports from May to September.

Hiking Near Istanbul: Trails for Every Level
Adventure & Outdoors

Hiking Near Istanbul: Trails for Every Level

Belgrad Forest, located 20 km north of Istanbul, features trails ranging from 3 to 16 km with entrance fees of 10 TRY. At Polonezköy Nature Park, 25 km from the city center, hikers can enjoy 11 km of marked paths amid average summer temperatures of 28°C.

Best Day Trips from Istanbul
Adventure & Outdoors

Best Day Trips from Istanbul

Princes' Islands lie 20 km southeast of Istanbul, reachable by ferry for 12-25 TRY one way, with Büyükada being the largest island at 5.4 km². The ferry trip takes about 1.5 hours, and average summer temperatures reach 28°C, making it a popular day trip destination outside the city.

Outdoor Activities in Istanbul: Adventure Guide
Adventure & Outdoors

Outdoor Activities in Istanbul: Adventure Guide

find outdoor activities in Istanbul, from Bosphorus cruises to hiking and cycling adventures.

Family Hotels in Istanbul: Where to Stay with Children
Family Travel

Family Hotels in Istanbul: Where to Stay with Children

find family hotels in Istanbul with amenities like play areas and babysitting services for a stress-free stay.

Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

The best time to visit Istanbul depends on your preferences. Located in Turkey, the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) typically offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer brings warmer temperatures and peak tourist season, while winter can be ideal for those seeking a quieter experience or specific seasonal activities.