Taksim Square is the heart of modern Istanbul, with lots of bars, nightclubs and restaurants in the area. Walk around the vibrant neighborhood and enjoy some drinks with your friends as you get the feel of the city.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hagia Sophia is a former basilica, now turned into a museum. Discover the history behind the stunning architecture and admire the iconic dome as you immerse yourself in Istanbul’s past.
Take a relaxing boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait and marvel at the view of Istanbul from the water. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the city and its bridges, palaces, and fortresses as you cruise along the strait.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 3,000 shops selling goods like textiles, jewelry, and spices. Get ready to bargain with the shopkeepers and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the market.
Escape the city and take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands. Enjoy a day in the sun, with beaches, restaurants, and activities like horse-drawn carriage rides or bike rentals. Make the most of your last day in Istanbul with a laidback beach party on the island.
Istanbul has efficient public transportation options like buses, trams and ferries, all reasonably priced. Taxis are also available but can be expensive for longer trips. It’s best to use a combination of public transport and walking for short trips.
Estimated travel costs range from ₺5-₺10 for a one-way public transportation ticket and average taxi fares start from ₺2.50 per kilometer.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Topkapi Palace or the Blue Mosque. For more partying, check out the clubs in the Ortakoy area or the Asian side of Istanbul.
If you have less time, skip the Grand Bazaar and spend more time relaxing on one of the Princes’ Islands.
Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is located on the European side of Istanbul, 35km northwest of the city center, while Sabiha Gökçen Airport is on the Asian side, 25km southeast of the city center.