Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Istanbul
Istanbul is a vibrant blend of cultures, where East meets West. Its rich history, diverse neighbourhoods, and bustling streets offer endless exploration. With a mix of affordable street food, markets, and cosy cafes, it’s perfect for budget travellers. The city’s easy-to-navigate public transport system and welcoming locals make it ideal for backpackers. Whether you’re seeking history, food, or adventure, Istanbul promises an unforgettable experience.
When to visit
Temp
Mar – May
Sep – Nov
3 – 35°C
37 – 95°F
Istanbul’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Bosphorus Cruise | Take a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, offering beautiful views of Istanbul’s landmarks, bridges, and palaces, with an option for sunset cruises. |
| Topkapi Palace | Explore the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring lavish courtyards, the Harem, royal artifacts, and stunning views of the Bosphorus. |
| Istiklal Street & Taksim Square | Stroll down Istiklal Street, a lively pedestrian avenue lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and historic landmarks, ending at Taksim Square. |
| Hagia Sophia | Discover the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia, a former basilica, mosque, and now museum, renowned for its immense dome and mosaics. |
| Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) | Visit this breath-taking mosque with its blue-tiled interior and six minarets, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture in the heart of the city. |
| Grand Bazaar | Wander through one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, filled with shops selling spices, textiles, jewellery, and souvenirs. |
| Dolmabahçe Palace | Tour the lavish Dolmabahçe Palace, a symbol of the Ottoman Empire’s later years, with ornate interiors and spectacular views over the Bosphorus. |
| Galata Tower | Climb the medieval Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus, with an observation deck at the top of the tower. |
| Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) | Experience the sights and smells of Istanbul’s historic Spice Bazaar, where you can buy local spices, sweets, teas, and dried fruits. |
| Basilica Cistern | Descend into the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir supported by marble columns, including the famous Medusa heads. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
Istanbul has an extensive public transport system, including buses, trams, metros, and ferries, all affordable and easy to navigate with the Istanbulkart. Taxis are also available, but traffic can be heavy. Popular ride-hailing apps include BiTaksi and Uber, which are convenient options for getting around the city.
Seasonality and Weather
Istanbul experiences four distinct seasons: mild, wet winters; warm, pleasant springs; hot, humid summers; and cool, crisp autumns. Winter (December–February) brings temperatures between 3°C–8°C (37°F–46°F), with occasional rainfall. Spring (March–May) sees temperatures ranging from 9°C–18°C (48°F–64°F), with mild, pleasant days. Summer (June–August) is hot, averaging 20°C–30°C (68°F–86°F), sometimes reaching 35°C (95°F). Autumn (September–November) is cooler, with temperatures from 12°C–20°C (54°F–68°F), and occasional rain.
The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the weather is most comfortable and the city is less crowded.
Where to stay
Sultanahmet: Central for historical attractions, ideal for first-time visitors.
Beyoğlu: Trendy, vibrant area with shops, cafes, and nightlife. Perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere.
Kadıköy: On the Asian side, known for its local vibe, cafes, and markets.
Taksim: Great for nightlife, shopping, and easy access to public transport.
Galata: Offers a more relaxed, bohemian feel with scenic views.
WindingTravel 