Start your trip with the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a former mosque-turned-museum, which boasts impressive architecture, intricate Byzantine mosaics, and a serene atmosphere.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a ferry to the Princes' Islands. These nine islands are car-free and offer an idyllic setting for cycling, horse-drawn carriage rides, swimming, and relaxing on the beach.
Visit the Topkapi Palace, one of Istanbul's most popular attractions, and get a glimpse of the lavish lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans. The palace complex includes beautiful courtyards, gardens, and museums with exhibits of Ottoman artifacts, including imperial jewels, clothing, and weaponry.
Unwind with a traditional Turkish bath experience at one of Istanbul's historic hamams such as Çemberlitaş Hamamı. Enjoy a steam bath, followed by a body scrub and massage, and end the session with a cup of fragrant tea.
See Istanbul's stunning skyline from a different perspective with a Bosphorus cruise that passes through the strait that separates Asia and Europe. You can choose to take a public hop-on-hop-off boat or book a private tour to include stops at historical landmarks and coastal villages along the way.
To get around Istanbul, you can use public transportation such as trams, buses, and ferries. Buy an Istanbulkart, a rechargeable electronic ticket, to save money on fares. Taxis are widely available but are usually more expensive. Traffic can be congested, so it's advisable to use public transport during rush hours.
From Istanbul Airport, you can take a taxi or an airport shuttle bus to the city center. The journey takes about 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around £15-20.
If you have more time, you can visit the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, or Basilica Cistern. If you have less time, you can skip the Turkish Baths or Bosphorus Cruise. Don't forget to try some Turkish food, such as baklava, simit, or kebab, and drink some Turkish tea or coffee. Be mindful of your dress code when visiting mosques or religious sites, and carry a scarf or shawl to cover your head or shoulders if necessary.
Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST), located on the European side, and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), located on the Asian side. Istanbul Airport is the main hub for Turkish Airlines and is about 20 miles (32 km) northwest of the city center. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is served by low-cost airlines and is about 20 miles (32 km) southeast of the city center.