Istanbul Travel Guide

Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus ferries and a food scene that rivals any in the world.

Top things to do in Istanbul

The essential Istanbul experiences — landmarks, neighborhoods, museums and hidden corners that locals actually love.

Best neighborhoods and hotels in Istanbul for first-timers, couples, families and budget travelers.

From cult street-food spots to Michelin-starred dining — the Istanbul food guide travelers ask for again and again.

The best half-day and full-day trips from Istanbul when you want to step outside the city without losing your base.

Getting from the airport, the best transport pass, neighborhoods to avoid at night and the etiquette every visitor to Istanbul should know.

3–4 days covers the Istanbul essentials; 5–7 lets you slow down and explore neighborhoods most tourists never see.

Istanbul is generally very safe for tourists. Standard big-city precautions for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas apply.