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On the Beach Limited
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Istanbul Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

Dive into the vibrant life of Istanbul, a city where history, culture, and modernity collide.

☀️ Good to Know

  • ☀️ Summers hit 28°C+ but spring and autumn (15-25°C) are ideal for sightseeing without the sweat

  • 💰 Brilliant value for UK visitors – expect around £2-3 for a beer and £8-15 for a proper meal out

  • 🌍 The only city in the world spanning two continents – you can literally have breakfast in Europe and lunch in Asia

Destination Highlights for 2026 & 2027

  • Historic Landmarks to feast your eyes on everywhere you look.

  • Delish dining spots at every turn, baklava anyone?

  • More Bazaar for your buck at these covered markets.

What are the best hotels in Istanbul?

Istanbul's a big city, so we've split our hotels across different areas: Old Istanbul for the historic Sultanahmet district near the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, New Istanbul for the buzzing Taksim and Beyoğlu neighbourhoods, East Side for the Asian side of the Bosphorus, and West Side for easy access to the airport and modern business districts. Whether you're after ancient vibes or modern energy, there's a spot to suit.

See all Istanbul hotels or browse our top picks below...

🚌 Getting around Istanbul

Navigating Istanbul is a breeze thanks to its tip-top public transportation network. The metro, trams, and buses cover all major areas, while ferries offer a scenic way to travel between the European and Asian sides of the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available for more convenience. For a truly local experience, consider using the city's funicular and cable car systems. An Istanbulkart, a reloadable travel card, simplifies access to all forms of public transport and can be purchased at various stations throughout the city making city breaks here a breeze.

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to do for families in Istanbul

Istanbul is packed with family-friendly activities that will keep the little ones entertained. Start with a visit to the Istanbul Aquarium, it's mahoosive, so perfect for a day out where you can explore themed exhibits and interactive displays. Miniatürk - a miniature park - offers a unique perspective on Turkey’s architectural wonders, all in a kid-friendly setting. Take a Bosporus boat tour to enjoy the city's iconic skyline and bridges from the water. For a mix of fun and learning, head to the Rahmi M. Koç Museum, where vintage cars, trains, and aviation exhibits captivate young minds. Don't forget to stop by one of Istanbul's many parks, such as Emirgan Park, which boasts beautiful gardens and plenty of space for kids to run around and play, perfect for your Istanbul holidays.

👩🏼‍❤️‍👨🏾 Things to do for couples in Istanbul

Couples will find Istanbul is an incredibly romantic getaway, offering numerous activities to enjoy together. Begin with a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus, where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying a glass of wine. Stroll through the historic Sultanahmet district, visit the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, and marvel at the stunning architecture. For a touch of luxury, book a session at a traditional Turkish bath (Hamam), such as the Cagaloglu Hamami, where you can relax and unwind. In the evening, explore Istiklal Avenue, filled with lively cafes, boutique shops, and street performers. Top off the day with a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant like Mikla, offering breathtaking city views and a sophisticated dining experience.

🏝️ Things to do for groups in Istanbul

Istanbul is an ideal destination for groups looking to explore and have a blast. Kick off your adventure at the Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and enjoy the bustling market atmosphere. Next, head to the Spice Bazaar to sample and buy exotic spices, teas, and sweets. For a bit of adventure, consider a guided tour of the Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel with an eerie yet fascinating vibe. A day trip to the Princes’ Islands is perfect for group outings, where you can rent bikes, enjoy picnics, and explore charming villages. In the evening, experience Istanbul's vibrant nightlife in the Beyoğlu district, packed with trendy bars, live music venues, and dance clubs. End the night at a traditional meyhane (Turkish tavern), sharing plates of delicious mezes and enjoying live music with your friends.

🥙 Things to do for foodies in Istanbul

Holidays to Istanbul are a food lover's paradise, offering a rich culinary scene that will delight your taste buds. Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast, featuring a spread of cheeses, olives, honey, and fresh bread. Wander through the streets to sample street food delights like simit (sesame-coated bread rings), döner kebabs, and lahmacun (Turkish pizza). For lunch, visit a local meyhane to enjoy a variety of mezes, or head to a fish restaurant along the Bosphorus for the freshest seafood around. In the afternoon, indulge in baklava and Turkish tea at one of the city's historic patisseries like Hafiz Mustafa. Don't miss exploring the diverse flavours of the Spice Bazaar, where you can pick up unique spices and sweets to take home. Finish your day with a lavish dinner at a rooftop restaurant like 360 Istanbul, offering panoramic views and a menu that blends traditional Turkish cuisine with modern twists.

🚌 Day Trips from Istanbul

Princes' Islands -  ⏱️ 1-1.5 hours by ferry

The ultimate escape from the city buzz. Cars are banned on these peaceful islands, so you'll get around by bike, electric buggy or on foot. Büyükada is the biggest and most popular – grab a picnic, explore the Victorian mansions, and soak up the pine-scented air. Ferries run regularly from Kabataş and the views of Istanbul's skyline from the water are cracking. Go on a weekday to dodge the crowds.

Bursa - ⏱️ 2-2.5 hours by ferry + bus

Turkey's first Ottoman capital is a proper gem. Take the cable car up Uludağ mountain for stunning views, wander the silk bazaar, and warm up in the thermal baths that have been bubbling away since Roman times. The real highlight? Iskender kebab – this is where it was invented, and you haven't lived until you've tried it here. The ferry from Yenikapı to Mudanya makes the journey half the fun.

Gallipoli - ⏱️ 4+ hours each way

A long day but incredibly moving, especially for Aussie and Kiwi visitors. The WWI battlefields, cemeteries, and Anzac Cove are now a peaceful national park covered in wildflowers and pine trees. Most people book a guided tour – the local guides really bring the history to life and cover both sides of the story. Best done as a very early start or an overnight.

Şile & Black Sea Coast - ⏱️ 1.5-2 hours by car/bus

Fancy swapping the Bosphorus for Black Sea waves? The fishing town of Şile has sandy beaches, a lighthouse perched on an island, and a much more local vibe than the Mediterranean resorts. Great for a chilled beach day without the long flight south. Buses run from Istanbul's Üsküdar district.

🗓️ What's On

  • Every April – Istanbul Tulip Festival – millions of tulips bloom across the city's parks and gardens, especially Emirgan Park

  • Every April – Istanbul Film Festival – two weeks of international and Turkish cinema across venues citywide

  • Every June-July – Istanbul Shopping Fest – massive sales, extended hours and entertainment across the city's shopping districts

  • Every October – Akbank Jazz Festival – international and local jazz acts take over clubs and concert halls

  • Every November – Istanbul Marathon – the world's only intercontinental marathon, running from Asia to Europe across the Bosphorus Bridge

  • Every September-November (odd years) – Istanbul Biennial – contemporary art installations and exhibitions pop up across the city

🛍️ Shopping in Istanbul

Istanbul is a shopper's paradise, whether you're after centuries-old bazaars or glitzy modern malls. Haggling is part of the fun at the markets, so don't be shy – it's expected.

  • Grand Bazaar – one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops spread across 61 streets. Get lost in the labyrinth of carpets, ceramics, jewellery, leather goods and lanterns. Haggling here is an art form.

  • Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) – smaller and more aromatic than the Grand Bazaar, this is where you'll find mountains of colourful spices, dried fruits, Turkish delight and teas. A proper feast for the senses.

  • Arasta Bazaar – tucked behind the Blue Mosque in Sultanahmet, this quieter alternative to the Grand Bazaar sells handmade ceramics, textiles and traditional crafts without the full-on hustle.

  • Istiklal Avenue – the beating heart of modern Istanbul shopping. This bustling pedestrianised street in Beyoğlu is lined with high street brands, bookshops, record stores and quirky boutiques, plus plenty of cafés for a pit stop.

  • Nişantaşı – if designer labels and luxury boutiques are more your vibe, head to this upmarket neighbourhood. Think Chanel, Gucci and Turkish fashion houses in tree-lined streets.

  • Kanyon & Zorlu Center – for air-conditioned mall therapy, these two are top picks. Kanyon's got a striking open-air design, while Zorlu Center combines high-end shops with a cinema and performing arts centre.

  • What to buy: Turkish carpets and kilims, hand-painted ceramics, copper and brassware, leather bags and jackets, evil eye (nazar) amulets, Turkish delight, baklava and loose-leaf teas.

🗺️ Nearby Destinations

Fancy combining your city break with some beach time? These Turkish hotspots are easy to reach:

  • Turkey – Explore more of this incredible country, from ancient ruins to turquoise coastlines

  • Antalya – A short flight south gets you to Turkey's biggest beach resort region with five-star all-inclusives, waterparks, and the charming old town of Kaleiçi

  • Bodrum – The glamorous Aegean resort with a famous castle, chic marina, and legendary nightlife – great for couples and groups

  • Dalaman – Nature paradise on the southwest coast with turtle beaches, Butterfly Valley and the dramatic Saklıkent Gorge

Popular Istanbul hotels

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Weather in Istanbul

JAN

9°C

FEB

10°C

MAR

12°C

APR

16°C

MAY

21°C

JUN

25°C

JUL

28°C

AUG

28°C

SEP

25°C

OCT

20°C

NOV

15°C

DEC

10°C

Dreaming of a place where summer never really clocks out? Istanbul’s got you covered. Summers here are all about soaking up the sun with temps cruising between the high 20s and low 30s Celsius. Perfect for lounging by the Bosphorus, exploring the Grand Bazaar, or sipping Turkish tea on a rooftop terrace. The evenings are balmy, the vibe is lively, and the sunsets are straight-up magical.

Autumn in Istanbul? Think golden hues and mild days, with temperatures chilling in the mid-20s. September still packs a warm punch, but by November, you can enjoy a cool 15°C – ideal for wandering through historic sites like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace without breaking a sweat.

Winter's got a softer touch in Istanbul, with lows around 5°C and highs flirting with 12°C. It’s the perfect time to dive into cozy cafes, warm up with a steaming bowl of mercimek çorbası (lentil soup), and maybe even catch a rare dusting of snow on the minarets.

Spring is Istanbul's sweet spot, with nature waking up and temperatures hitting a pleasant 15°C to 25°C. It's prime time for cruising along the Bosphorus, exploring tulip gardens in Emirgan Park, or dining al fresco in Ortaköy. From late March to May, the city blooms with festivals, fresh produce, and a vibe that's just plain happy.

So, whether you're baking under the summer sun, strolling through autumn leaves, cozying up in winter's embrace, or blossoming with spring, Istanbul’s weather's got more twists and turns than a Turkish bazaar – and every season is an adventure!

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FAQs

How long does it take to fly to Istanbul?

It takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes to fly from the UK to Istanbul - prime time to get a head start on your first Summer read.

What's the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Istanbul?

Istanbul is 2 hours ahead of the time in the UK.

What currency do they use in Istanbul?

The official currency of Istanbul is the Turkish Lira.

What language do they speak in Istanbul?

The official language spoken in Istanbul is Turkish.

What should I wear to visit mosques?

Both men and women need to cover knees and shoulders. Women should also cover their hair – bring a scarf or borrow one at the entrance. Remove your shoes before entering (you'll be given a bag to carry them). The Blue Mosque and others are free to enter but closed during prayer times.

Is Istanbul safe for tourists?

Yes, Istanbul is generally very safe for tourists. The main areas are well-policed and locals are famously hospitable. Use common sense with your belongings in crowded spots like the Grand Bazaar, and stick to well-lit areas at night. Solo female travellers report feeling comfortable, though modest dress helps in more traditional neighbourhoods.

Can I drink the tap water in Istanbul?

Best to stick to bottled water for drinking – it's cheap and available everywhere. Tap water is fine for brushing teeth and locals use it for cooking. Ice in tourist restaurants is usually made from filtered water.

Is English widely spoken?

In tourist areas like Sultanahmet, Taksim, and the Grand Bazaar, you'll get by fine with English. Hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant workers generally speak good English. Learning a few Turkish phrases (merhaba = hello, teşekkürler = thank you) goes down really well though.

Can you visit the Asian side of Istanbul?

Definitely – and it's well worth it. Hop on a ferry from Eminönü or Karaköy to Kadıköy for a taste of local life, bustling markets and some of the city's best food streets. The East Side is less touristy and gives you a different perspective on the city.

Is it easy to get around Istanbul?

Very. The city has a brilliant public transport network – trams, metros, buses and ferries all connect the main areas. Grab an Istanbulkart (a rechargeable travel card) from any metro station and you're sorted. Taxis and ride apps are handy for late nights or longer trips.