Istanbul, the capital of Turkey, connects the eastern and western world. This vibrant metropolis spans both Europe and Asia, making it an incredibly unique place to visit.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an architecture lover, or simply a traveler who loves to meander through beautiful neighborhoods, Istanbul has something for you. With so much to explore in such a large city, it can be overwhelming trying to decide what to do in Istanbul. Luckily for you, I’ve created this guide on how to spend a weekend in Istanbul, including tips and more.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING
- To enter Turkey, you will need to purchase a visa. An e-visa can easily be arranged online in one day and costs about 20 USD per person. Purchase your visa here.
- The main language is Turkish
- The currency is the Turkish Lira.
- Dress conservatively. No v-necks or low cut shirts, cover your knees and do not wear tight or form fit clothing.
- Wear comfortable shoes because you will do an ample amount of walking.
- Don’t be afraid to bargain with the vendors at the bazaar. Start at half the asking price and work your way up from there.
- The best time to visit Istanbul is March-May and September-November.
HOW TO GET TO ISTANBUL
The city has three international airports:
- Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST) – located on the European side in Yeşilköy and is one of the busiest airports in the world.
- Istanbul Airport – located on the European side in the Arnavutköy district. Built with the intention of becoming the world’s biggest airport, it will eventually be the main airport for the city and hub for all Turkish Airlines flights.
- Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) – located on the Asian side in Pendik.
We flew into the new Istanbul Airport in the Arnavutköy district. The airport is beautiful and it is pretty easy to navigate around. We actually flew in/out of this airport several times during our trip since we also visited Cappadocia. Upon landing, we gathered our luggage and called an Uber to take us to Istanbul, which took about 45 minutes and cost about 35 USD.
WHERE TO STAY
Istanbul is home to over 15 million people and one of the largest cities in the world. It is divided into 39 districts: 25 on the European side and 14 on the Asian side. As you can imagine, choosing a hotel can be overwhelming since there are so many different neighborhoods and lots of hotel options. Here is a list of some of the most popular Istanbul neighborhoods to help you decide where to stay.
Beyoğlu is located on the Eastern European side of the river and known for being a trendy area full of cobbled roads, great cafe’s, pubs, and shopping, as well as boutique hotels. You will be near popular areas of Taksim Square, Galata, Karakoy, and Istiklal street.
Sultanahmet is located on the other part of the European side, which is the top area for tourism in Istanbul as it holds the Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, and Basilica Cistern. Sultanahmet is also very close to the Grand Bazaar.
Karaköy is located in the mouth of the Golden Horn, this neighborhood is now home to Istanbul’s hottest restaurants and most stylish boutiques and hotels.
Beşiktaş is located the heart of the luxury hotel district in Istanbul. Known for its epic Bosphorus views and proximity to Dolmabahçe Palace and Ortaköy Mosque. There are tons of rooftop bars in this area offering beautiful views and cocktails.
We decided to stay in the Beşiktaş neighborhood at AC Hotel Istanbul Macka. We found it to be in not only a great area, but near many popular sites including Dolmabahçe Palace, Sultanahmet and the Bosphorus.
HOW TO GET AROUND
Expect traffic in Istanbul! Fortunately, Istanbul offers many ways of getting around by public transport. The metro, bus, and tram run throughout the entire city. To catch any of these forms of transportation, you’ll need an Istanbulkart. This electronic smart card allows you to pay for fares, and you can pick one up at the airport or at any station.
Taxis and Uber are also options to getting around the city. Be careful with taxis as they are known for taking advantage of tourists. Check the meter because sometimes they already have it running before you enter. This actually happened to us and when we mentioned it to the driver he made up some ridiculous reason, so we quickly exited and called an Uber. You maybe told that Uber is illegal, however the app works in Istanbul. I used Uber to and from the airport and around Istanbul and did not have any issues.
Ferries are also a quick and fun way to get from one side to the other. It can be the most convenient way to cross the Bosphorus, and it’s definitely the most scenic. The main ferry stations are Karaköy, Beşiktaş, Kabataş, and Eminönü.
All transportation is pretty convenient and affordable in Istanbul.
THINGS TO DO
Galata Tower
The 14th-century medieval watchtower overlooks the Bosphorus that separates Europe and Asia. It’s a beautiful place to watch the sunset and overlook the entire city. The tower opens at 9 AM and tickets cost about 5 USD to visit the top. Trendy cafes surround the Galata Tower so you can easily get your breakfast and coffee before heading up.
Spice Bazaar
The Misir Carsisi or the Spice Market is blocks and blocks of small alleyways with covered shops selling dried fruits, lokum (Turkish delights) and lots of yummy spices. It’s the perfect place to grab some souvenirs for home! Location is just over the road of Galata Bridge. 10 minute walk from the Grand Bazaar.
Grand Bazaar
A visit to the Grand Bazaar must be on your list of things to do in Istanbul. This iconic market is one of the greatest and largest in the world. Although it’s always incredibly busy with 250,000 to 400,000 daily visitors, the bustle adds to the experience. From carpets to jewelry, fake designer bags and clothing, this sprawling maze is constantly bustling. Take the time to browse the stalls and then haggle with the local peddlers.
If you are planning to buy something, get ready for an intense bargain. The bazaar is open from 9 AM to 8 PM and closed every Sunday.
Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is Istanbul’s most famous landmark. The breathtaking blue interior of the mosque is what brought its nickname: Blue Mosque. Start your morning at 08:30 AM to avoid the tour groups and prayer times. Covers are available for free, and admission is free. The Blue Mosque is open everyday, all you need to be aware is praying times as the Mosque is closed to visitors during praying times. The mosque closes for 90 minutes at each prayer time. Avoid visiting the mosque at prayer time. Click here for more information.
The Blue Mosque is located right across from Hagia Sophia so it’s best to visit them the same day in order to save time.
Hagia Sophia
A church, a mosque, a museum–originally built in 537 AD, the Hagia Sophia has had a long and storied life. This UNESCO site belongs to the world’s greatest archaeological achievements. Famous for its grandness and incredible interior.
Hagia Sophia is open from 9 AM to 7 PM and is closed on Mondays. Tickets cost about 12 USD. Don’t buy any skip-the-line tickets on the street. Order your tickets online.
Dolmabahce Palace
Dolmabahçe Palace is a 19th century palace and the largest palace in Turkey. It housed the last six Sultans of the Ottoman Empire as well as the founder of the new Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who died in a bedroom in the palace. Take the time to follow the carpeted route and appreciate the intricate ornate details of the 285 rooms, 44 halls, 68 toilets and 6 Turkish baths. The largest crystal chandelier in the world, custom-made in England, hangs in the main hall.
Entrance is limited to 3,000 visitors per day and audio guides are provided for free.
Istiklal Street
Here you can truly take the pulse of the city because it is the liveliest area in Istanbul. Climb onto the red tram on Istiklal Street and explore, hopping off when you’re ready to shop. Think of Istiklal as the Time Sqaure of Istanbul.
Indulge in Turkish Breakfast
Made up of several different spreads, eggs, cheeses, breads, olives, honey, and more, plus unfathomable amounts of Turkish tea, Turkish breakfast is a gut-busting and incredible meal.
If you’re looking for a fantastic breakfast spot that’s popular with locals and tourists, you can’t beat Van Kahvalti Evi.
Take a Ferry to Another Continent
Sailing the Bosphorus is the best way to see Istanbul from a distance, as well as the many mansions and palaces that line the shores of the river.
Istanbul is well known for being the only city to span two continents – Europe and Asia. Book a Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and enjoy watching the sunset over the city while you indulge in a delicious meal that takes place not in Europe or Asia, but somewhere in between the two. You can book a tour and sail the Bosphorus during the daytime or at sunset.
Relax with a Traditional Hammam
Turkish hammams are a spa experience like no other. A traditional experience includes a scrub down and massage – you’ll leave feeling silky smooth! I personally recommend the Spa at The Shangri – La Bosphorus in Istanbul. This is the perfect way to relax and end your trip. My husband and I did this on the last day and it was amazing after our bodies and feet ached from all that walking. We added on a couples massage, which was incredible and surprisingly well priced for being a luxury hotel. Highly recommend treating yourself to this experience if you can.
Taksim Square
Taksim is a busy nightlife, shopping and dining district. Vintage trams trundle along Istiklal Caddesi, the city’s main pedestrian boulevard, which is lined with 19th-century buildings housing international shopping chains, movie theaters and cafes.
➳ Also read: 3 Days in Cappadocia
WHERE TO EAT
- Seven Hills Restaurant in Sultanahmet – Panoramic view of the entire city.
- Hafiz Mustafa – The most famous pastry restaurant. Order delicious baklava or any other dessert. Have a cup of coffee.
- A’YA Rooftop Lounge – Located in the Four Seasons. The rooftop opens at 5 PM.
- Soho House Istanbul – occupies the 19th-century Palazzo Corpi. The rooftop views and garden are a must see. Great place for dinner and cocktails.
- Van Kahvlati Evi – located in Cihanger, Van Kahvlati Evi has one of the best Turkish breakfasts.
- Naga Putrika – located in Kadikoy (Asian side), Mangerie for views of the Bosphorus. Known for a great Turkish breakfast.
- Los Altos – Craving something besides Turkish cuisine? This place has awesome cocktails and Mexican cuisine with an amazing panoramic view of the Old City Peninsula, Golden Horn, and the Prince Islands.
I hope this guide gives you some excitement for your upcoming trip or just some inspiration to one day visit Istanbul! For anyone with a short window of opportunity, I would recommend using this guide as inspiration.
If you enjoyed this post, please comment below and share on social media!
PIN IT!
