Istanbul

This magical meeting place straddling two continents has more top-notch attractions than it has minarets (and that's a lot).

Viacheslav Lopatin/Shutterstock

Kerry Walker|Mar 20, 2026
A guide to Istanbul's Grand Bazaar
Jennifer Hattam|Feb 23, 2026
7 of the best neighborhoods in İstanbul
Jennifer Hattam|Feb 20, 2026
The 12 best day trips from Istanbul
Jennifer Hattam|Feb 18, 2026
6 of the best beaches within reach of İstanbul

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Turkiye

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10 days / 9 nights

10 Days in Türkiye: Istanbul, Izmir and Cappadocia

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Istanbul travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

Where do you begin to explore the storied, sprawling city of İstanbul? Start with these 16 top experiences.

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Best Time to Visit

This vibrant city always has something going on but the weather can impact your trip. Here's how to pick the perfect time to visit Istanbul.

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Transportation

Istanbul's scale and traffic jams can be daunting to travelers but the city's compact center and transport options make it a breeze if you're in the know.

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Free Things to Do

From mosques and markets to art galleries and monuments, some of Istanbul's best attractions don't cost a thing.

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Best Neighborhoods

Two days in İstanbul will give you a taste of its attractions while leaving you eager to come back for more. Here's our guide to a perfect weekend there.

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