Istanbul, Turkey has been at the centre of world history for thousands of years. Architecture, culture and most importantly, empire, have converged at this expansive and culturally rich city.
Because of Istanbul's considerable historic significance, there is much to see and do in the city that was once Constantinople. From the remnants of its stint as the eastern capital of the Roman Empire, to the Crusades, to the Ottoman Empire mosques and palaces, Istanbul has seen the world take shape and become what it is today. Not to mention, Istanbul is an important city for almost every major religion.
A trip to Istanbul means diving into the past and immersing oneself in the history, culture and architecture that have permeated almost every corner of the globe.
Getting in and around Istanbul
Istanbul Airport
Istanbul Airport is located about 40 kilometres from the centre of the city. Luckily, you have many options to get you to the city centre. Taxis are reliable but more costly. There is also the metro or bus services, as well as shuttles and town cars.
Istanbul Transport
The public transportation system in Istanbul is the best and cheapest way to get around. You can purchase an Istanbul Kart which is found at metro stations, small kiosks and piers. This will grant you access to boats, subways, tramways, buses and funiculars.
Istanbul Car Hire
Local car hire companies in Istanbul are plentiful and you shouldn't have a problem finding one to suit your needs. The roads come to a standstill at peak times in the morning and afternoon, so it is advised to plan your travel around this if you are hiring a car.
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Istanbul accommodation
Istanbul has a diverse range of hotels to fit every price point. All in all, you get what you pay for. Nevertheless, you can stay very comfortably in Istanbul without breaking the bank.
Luxury
The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul. This branch of the Ritz-Carlton brand offers luxurious furnishings and outstanding views of the beautiful city.
Swissotel The Bosphorus. This fantastic luxury hotel is among the best in the city and offers a beautiful and luxurious spa to its guests. The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul This branch of the Ritz-Carlton brand offers luxurious furnishings and outstanding views of this beautiful city.
The Bosphorus This fantastic luxury hotel is among the best in the city and offers a beautiful and luxurious spa to its guests.
Mid-range
Sirkeci Mansion Hotel. This beautiful and comfortable hotel is perfectly situated among Istanbul's most popular attractions.
Dersaadet Hotel Istanbul has earned its reputation as one of the best hotels in the city and offers a wonderful stay within one of Istanbul's historic districts. Sirkeci Konak Hotel This beautiful and comfortable hotel is perfectly situated among Istanbul's most popular attractions.
Dersaadet Hotel Istanbul has earned its reputation as one of the best hotels in the city and offers a wonderful stay within one of Istanbul's historic districts.
Budget
Ocean's 7 Hotel is an absolutely beautiful hotel and is great value for money.
Hotel Nena is quaint and charming and offers beautiful views of the city.Oceans 7 Hotel is an absolutely beautiful hotel and great value in Istanbul.
Nena Hotel is quaint and charming and offers beautiful views of the city and a great location.
Backpackers
The Sultan Hostel is a very comfortable spot that's just steps away from all of Istanbul's greatest attractions. The Sultan Hostel is a very comfortable spot that's just steps away from all of Istanbul's greatest attractions.
Sinbad Hostel wins travellers' hearts with free breakfast and free internet service in the heart of Istanbul.
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Things to do in Istanbul
There are a number of sights and destinations in Istanbul that are some of the most important in the world. Events that would eventually shape the world took place at many of these sites.
Martyrs Bridge is a breathtaking sight, especially at night when the bridge is lit. Martyrs Bridge is one of the longest bridges in the world.
Taksim Square is the hip and modern centre in Istanbul that's known for shopping, restaurants and hotels.
Topkapi Palace Museum is a beautiful and expansive palace that was home to the sultans of the Ottoman Empire.
The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultanahmet Mosque, was given the name for the blue tiles that decorate the ornate interior of the mosque. The mosque is a perfect example of Islamic architectural style and is still a functioning place of worship.
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is a shopper's paradise. It is one of the largest covered markets in the entire world and shoppers can find rugs, pottery jewellery, and other goods at the Grand Bazaar.
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Day trips in and around Istanbul
The Hagia Sophia is one of the most important architectural and religious landmarks in the world. It was once a basilica, then a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again.
The baths in Istanbul are a great way to relax and soak up the local culture. The Suleymaniye Bath is among the best baths in Istanbul and is an artefact in itself.
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