Istanbul guide

Best time to visit

April to early June and September to November bring mild weather and fewer crowds. Summers are hot and busy; winters are cool and rainy but quiet and cheaper.

Where to stay

• SultanahmetWalking distance to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace: ideal for first-timers.
• Beyoğlu, Galata and KaraköyLively streets, cafés, rooftop bars and art galleries, with views over the Golden Horn.
• Beşiktaş and NişantaşıUpmarket shopping, Bosphorus palaces and a local feel away from the main sights.
• KadıköyOn the Asian side: markets, food streets and a relaxed neighbourhood atmosphere, a short ferry from the old city.

From the airport

Istanbul Airport (IST) is on the European side, around 45 to 75 minutes from the centre by road. The M11 metro line and Havaist airport buses connect it to the city. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side serves many low-cost flights.

Getting around

Buy an Istanbulkart and use it on trams, metro, buses and ferries. The T1 tram runs through Sultanahmet; ferries are the most scenic way to cross between continents. Traffic can be heavy, so rail and boats are often faster than taxis.

Don't miss

1. Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque
2. Topkapı Palace and the Basilica Cistern
3. A Bosphorus cruise
4. The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar
5. Galata Tower and the streets of Karaköy

Good to know

• In mosques, remove your shoes, cover shoulders and knees, and women cover their hair; avoid visiting during prayer times.
• Use licensed taxis with a meter or a ride-hailing app, and keep small notes for markets.
• Bargaining is normal in the bazaars but not in shops with marked prices.
• Tap water is treated, but most visitors drink bottled water.