Istanbul, Europe

Istanbul is on everybody's travel list. This Eurasian destination is one of the most fascinating and thrilling places to visit — it's big and you can miss a lot of spectacular places in the city and around. Once you step in and start exploring every nook and corner, you'll find that Istanbul is a combination of the old and modern.

Whether you're a first-timer or returning to your favorite city, this city will amaze you every time. Find fishermen selling sandwiches from their boats and elderly couples selling books and historical literature. With its vivid and pulsating nightlife, Istanbul offers a memorable experience for everyone. You can explore ancient monuments, Roman structures, cathedrals, prehistoric towers, and palaces.

Plan your itinerary well. With every turn, Istanbul puts on a new face. Cruise on the Bosphorus, tour spice and textile bazaars, offers prayers at the city's largest mosque, explore underground cisterns, revive with a hammam bath, and relish authentic doner kebabs and other munchies — before leaving the city.

Best Time to Visit

There is never a best time to visit Istanbul. Every season in the city offers something or the other to awe-inspiring people. However, spring and fall — March to May & September to November is the perfect time to explore Istanbul as the Mediterranean wind keeps the city atmosphere enjoyable. The climate is pleasant, cool and dry with temperatures ranging from 16 °C to 28 °C. You can enjoy several outdoor activities and laze on the beaches for a long time.

Best Things to Do

• Immerse yourself within The Grand Bazar
• Experience the beauty of The Blue Mosque
• See Hagia Sophia Museum and Church
• Climb Galata Tower
• Sip on a Turkish Coffee
• Shop till you drop in Nisantasi
• Explore Dolmabahce Palace
• Visit Ortakoy
• Grab some spices at the Egyptian Bazar
• Explore the quaint charm of Sile