Istanbul
Your complete travel companion for exploring Istanbul
Why We Love Istanbul
From the moment we stepped off the plane in Istanbul, we knew this trip would be unforgettable. The vibrant energy, the warmth of locals, and the stunning landscapes exceeded every expectation. Whether you're wandering through historic streets at sunrise or discovering hidden cafés tucked away in quiet corners, Istanbul rewards the curious traveler.
Explore Istanbul on the Map
Get familiar with the area before your trip. Zoom in to explore neighborhoods, find landmarks, and plan your itinerary.
Click on the map to explore. Use street view to virtually walk around before your trip!
Insider Travel Tips
These are the things we wish we knew before our first visit—straight from our experience and conversations with locals:
Beat the Crowds
Visit Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace at opening. Blue Mosque is busiest mid-morning; go early or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better light.
Money Saving Secret
Eat where locals eat: simit and tea for breakfast, döner or kebabs for lunch. Avoid restaurants with touts on Sultanahmet’s main strip for better value.
Learn Key Phrases
"Teşekkürler" (thank you), "Merhaba" (hello), and "Ne kadar?" (how much?) go a long way. Turks appreciate even basic Turkish and it helps when bargaining.
Best Time to Visit
April–May and September–November are shoulder season: pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and better prices. Summer is peak and hot; winter is cheap but cool and wet.
What to Expect in Istanbul
Based on our travels and feedback from fellow travelers, here's what you can realistically expect in Turkey:
Cultural Richness
Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern Turkey in one place. Bazaars, mosques, and coastlines offer endless discovery.
Value for Money
Good value in local lira. Street food and neighborhood restaurants are affordable; prices have risen but still reasonable compared to much of Europe.
Safety & Comfort
Generally safe with normal precautions. Tourist areas are well served; watch for taxi overcharging and agree on fares upfront.
Food & Dining
Outstanding cuisine from breakfast to meze. Mix street food with sit-down meals for the best experience.
Realistic Budget Planning
Based on our experience and current pricing, here's what daily costs actually look like in Istanbul:
Typical Cost Breakdown (Mid-Range Traveler)
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Peak season: warm weather and long days, but crowded and more expensive. Ideal for coast and outdoor dining.
Shoulder Season
Best balance of weather and value. Comfortable for sightseeing, fewer crowds, and better rates.
Off Season
Cool and wet in Istanbul; cheapest time. Good for museums and indoor sights; some coastal areas quiet or closed.