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Your ultimate guide to Istanbul

About

Sitting between Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been the meeting point for diverse cultures for thousands of years. See for yourself how Istanbul combines culture and history like no other city.

What will you find in this Istanbul guide?
Moving around
It’s easy to get around Istanbul once you know how, with many public transport options. Take trams for scenic views, the subway when in a rush, or ferries for a unique city view.
Where to stay
Learn about the top Istanbul neighborhoods, including Galata, Besiktas, Taksim, or Sultanahmet, each with a unique atmosphere for all types of travelers.
What to eat
Istanbul is a foodie’s paradise full of rich flavors. Discover where to find the best dishes, such as döner kebab, pide, and pilaf.
What to buy
Istanbul’s bazaars are a labyrinth of local stalls selling one-of-a-kind jewelry, fabrics, and spices. Learn how to haggle respectfully and where to find the best bazaars.
What to visit
Home to world-famous religious and cultural sites, Istanbul’s churches, museums, and historical neighborhoods are also packed with hidden gems worth visiting.
Day trips
Turkey is much more than just Istanbul. Learn how to explore the rest of this beautiful country with day trips like Antalya, Cappadocia, and Gümüşlük.
Ready to explore Istanbul?

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Istanbul

Top attractions in Istanbul

Turkish street food

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Things to do in Istanbul: Underrated Istanbul attractions

Things to do in Istanbul: Underrated Istanbul attractions

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What to buy in Istanbul: Shopping guide and helpful tips

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10 Most popular cities in Turkey to visit

10 Most popular cities in Turkey to visit

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Aerial view of Istanbul, Holafly logo on the top left corner, and an aeroplane illustration on the bottom right corner.

How many days in Istanbul do you need?

3-5 days lets you cover the basics of Istanbul. See how many days in Istanbul is enough for your style of travel with our three quickfire itineraries.

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Istanbul

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