Istanbul Turkey
Straddling two continents, this magical meeting place of East and West has more top-notch attractions than it has minarets (and that's a lot).
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Top Sights
Unmissable sights for your itinerary
Planning Toolkit
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Articles
Latest stories from Istanbul
Art and Culture
Postcard from Istanbul... my trip to the Bosphorus in pictures
Nov 22, 2022 • 2 Min read
Demi Perera, a London-based travel journalist, shares a snapshot of her recent trip to Istanbul, Turkey
Best in Travel - 2023
Istanbul to Sofia: a journey by sleeper train
Nov 15, 2022 • 10 Min read
The recently restored overnight service between Istanbul and Sofia whirls two adventures into one. Tom Hall shows you how to do it.
Shopping
Everything you need to know about shopping in Istanbul
Mar 20, 2022 • 7 Min read
Istanbul has always lured traders and shoppers. Here's our guide to shopping in this dazzling city, from the Grand Bazaar to the boutiques of Nişantaşı.
Neighborhoods
There’s a neighborhood in Istanbul to suit every taste
Feb 13, 2022 • 6 Min read
Istanbul’s distinct neighborhoods each give visitors a different perspective on life in this complicated, mesmerizing, centuries-old city.
Archaeology
The best museums in Istanbul are a journey through time
Dec 13, 2021 • 6 Min read
Istanbul is itself a museum, but the city also has astonishing collections of treasures old and new in institutions both intimate and grand.
Wildlife & Nature
These top Istanbul parks showcase the city's history and natural beauty
Dec 13, 2021 • 6 Min read
The Turkish city's green spaces offer options that include cafes, ancient monuments and places to simply take a stroll.
Activities
The 25 best sights to see in Istanbul that don't cost a thing
Nov 7, 2021 • 7 Min read
From mosques to art galleries and monuments to markets, here are the best free things you can enjoy in Istanbul.
Public Transport
The 12 best day trips from Istanbul
Nov 4, 2021 • 11 Min read
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul with a day trip to nearby beaches, forests and sleepy towns around the Sea of Marmara and Black Sea.
Activities
14 must-do things on your trip to Istanbul
Nov 1, 2021 • 8 Min read
We’ve all heard the descriptions of Istanbul as a bridge between Europe and Asia, and these are the top things to do to uncover the city's many layers.
