The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It has over 4,000 shops, selling everything from Turkish rugs to silver and gold jewelry. It's a great place to immerse yourself in Istanbul's history and culture while haggling for a great deal.
The Belgrade Forest is a beautiful natural park in Istanbul, perfect for a day of hiking and adventure. You can explore the forest trails, have a picnic, and enjoy the stunning scenery. There are also plenty of activities like horseback riding, mountain biking, and zip-lining available.
The Hagia Sophia is a historic building that served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum. It's an architectural masterpiece with stunning art and mosaics from different periods in history. It's a must-visit attraction that will give you an insight into Istanbul's diverse cultural heritage.
End your trip with an unforgettable experience by taking a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia's stunning landscapes. You'll see the fairy chimneys, ancient churches, and valleys in a unique way. It's a thrilling and scenic adventure that will be the highlight of your Istanbul trip.
Public transportation is easily accessible in Istanbul with different options like buses, trains, and trams. Taxis are also affordable, and Uber is available in some areas. You can also rent a car, but it's not necessary in the city center. Transport costs range from 1.5 to 5 Lira per ride, and a taxi ride from the airport to the city center costs around 80-100 Lira, taking up to 30 minutes.
If you have more time, you can visit other landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Bosphorus Strait. If you have less time, you can cut the hot air balloon ride and enjoy other outdoor activities like a Bosporus Boat Tour. Be careful of your belongings and watch out for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.
Istanbul Airport (IST) is located 21 miles northwest of Istanbul city center. It's the largest airport in Turkey, a hub for Turkish Airlines, and serves over 300 destinations worldwide. It's modern, well-connected, and has various transport options like buses, trains, and taxis. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is the second airport in Istanbul, located on the Asian side, and serves low-cost carriers like Pegasus Airlines.