Istanbul

Q: What is Istanbul Best Known For?

Istanbul is known for its perfect blend of both European and Islamic cultures and experiences. You can see these mixtures of historical cultures as you visit the Ottoman and Baroque architectural styles of their mosques and museums like the Hagia Sophia Museum, and the Blue Mosque. Go and try their delicious Turkish cuisines, or shop for souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar.

Q: When is the Best Time to Visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring season between April to May, and during autumn season in September to November. These are the times when weather is generally tolerable and the city’s attractions are not overwhelmingly crowded.

Q: Where is the Best Location for Tourists to Stay in Istanbul?

Stay in Sultanahmet, on the European side, where you’ll be near all of the city’s main attractions like the museums, mosques, restaurants, and shops. If you’re looking for a more laid-back, inexpensive, but equally beautiful location, you look for accommodations on the Asian side of the city in Üsküdar.

Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city and the only country in the world that cuts across two continents – Asia and Europe. It may not be Turkey's capital city, but it is undeniably a top destination for travelers from all over the world!

Influenced by the unique combinations of the charms of the old city and the excitement of the new city, Istanbul is nothing short of spectacular. Take a stroll down the busy Istiklal Street, lose yourself in the iconic Grand Bazaar, and explore the city’s various beautiful landmarks like Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and more!

Best time to visit

APR

International Istanbul Tulip Festival

Recommended trip duration

3 days

Museums • Istanbul

Hagia Sophia Ticket

Bestseller

Easy refund

Instant confirmation

Skip the line

From £ 12.59

Museums • Istanbul

Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Ticket

Bestseller

Easy refund

Instant confirmation

From £ 26.85

Attraction passes • Istanbul

Klook Pass Turkey

Bestseller

Easy refund

Instant confirmation

From £ 71.25

£ 93.89

Historical sites • Istanbul

Topkapi Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio App

Bestseller

Easy refund

Instant confirmation

From £ 43.59

Cruises • Istanbul

Istanbul: Bosphorus Night Cruise w/ Dinner, Drinks & Shows

Bestseller

Easy refund

Instant confirmation

From £ 18.99

Museums • Istanbul

Dolmabahce Palace Ticket

Bestseller

Instant confirmation

From £ 30.19

Tours • Istanbul

Bosphorus Cruise Tour In Istanbul For 2 Hours

Bestseller

Easy refund

Instant confirmation

Book now for today

£ 6.29

Mega Lufer Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Show with Private Table

Klook's choice

Cruises • Istanbul

Mega Lufer Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Show with Private Table

Easy refund

Instant confirmation

Book now for tomorrow

From £ 23.49

Observation decks • Istanbul

Galata Tower Ticket in Istanbul

Instant confirmation

Book now for today

£ 28.95

£ 31.45

Cruises • Istanbul

Mega Lufer Sunset Sightseeing Cruise with Audio Guide in Istanbul

Easy refund

Instant confirmation

Book now for tomorrow

From £ 9.25

Cruises • Istanbul

Bosphorus Strait Entertainment and Dinner Cruise in Istanbul

Bestseller

Easy refund

Instant confirmation

Book now for tomorrow

From £ 20.95

£ 29.35

Tours • Istanbul

Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Yacht

Easy refund

Instant confirmation

Book now for today

£ 33.55

Transport

How To Get To Istanbul Airport

From Topkapi Palace to the Hagia Irene Church, there’s so much to see in Istanbul, and with Klook you can sort out all your Istanbul Airport Transfers. Check out our guide on the best ways to get to Istanbul airport, and book a private car, taxi, or limo service from/to Istanbul Airport for yourself or for larger groups.

Harriet Evans

Things to do

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Local weather

℉ ℃

DEC - FEB

10° 3°
MAR - MAY

20° 5°
JUN - AUG

28° 17°
SEP - NOV

25° 9°

General info

Time zone

GMT +03:00

3 hours ahead
Currency

Turkish Lira

1GBP = 45.41TRY
Official languages

Turkish
Best time to visit

APR

International Istanbul Tulip Festival
Recommended trip duration

3 days
Flight time

4 hours

When departing from London
Activities available on Klook

192

Istanbul

Best time to visit

Recommended trip duration

The best of Istanbul

Hagia Sophia Ticket

Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Ticket

Klook Pass Turkey

Topkapi Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio App

Istanbul: Bosphorus Night Cruise w/ Dinner, Drinks & Shows

Dolmabahce Palace Ticket

Bosphorus Cruise Tour In Istanbul For 2 Hours

Mega Lufer Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Show with Private Table

Galata Tower Ticket in Istanbul

Mega Lufer Sunset Sightseeing Cruise with Audio Guide in Istanbul

Bosphorus Strait Entertainment and Dinner Cruise in Istanbul

Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Yacht

Travel guides & tips for Istanbul

How To Get To Istanbul Airport

Choose Between These 6 Instagram Tours for the Pre-Wedding Photoshoot Locations of Your Dreams!

What to know before visiting Istanbul

Local weather

Time zone

Currency

Official languages

Best time to visit

Recommended trip duration

Flight time

Activities available on Klook

FAQs about Istanbul

What is Istanbul Best Known For?

When is the Best Time to Visit Istanbul?

Where is the Best Location for Tourists to Stay in Istanbul?