Turkey’s bejewelled meeting place between East and West is the country’s cultural epicentre. Once the capital of the Byzantine Empire, this rich and turbulent history can be traced through Istanbul’s vibrant, living streets. History resonates in Roman ruins, artefacts like the Cisterna Basilica, and opulent Ottoman palaces glisten on the skyline. Every nook and cranny of the city reveals a deeper story that’s begging to be discovered when you travel to Istanbul.
At its cultural core, Istanbul possesses a remarkable variety of museums and heritage sites. The stunning Aya Sofya is one of Turkey’s most visited treasures. While it was recently re-converted back into a mosque, it remains an architectural marvel with grand gardens. Topkapı Palace, Sultan Mehmed’s 15th-century playground, is as opulent as they come. Istanbul’s museums aren’t limited to centuries-old monuments; modern art thrives at Istanbul Modern, the city’s innovative answer to the Tate and MoMA. Contemporary galleries like ARTER provide a face for cutting-edge Turkish art.
Istanbul’s streets boast another type of heritage that’s far more immediate and satisfying: Turkish food. Istanbul is the place to visit for the latest Turkish innovations, but the small, local eateries will melt your heart. From mouth-watering halka tatlisi (a type of doughnut) to moreish dürüm stuffed with Adana kebab meat, dining out is an experience. Vegetarians can pick from a world of meze delights, including köpoğlu, şakşuka and havuç tarator, all noted for their simplicity and freshness. Wash it all down with a glass of wine from the sun-kissed Aegean Region.
Istanbul’s other great pastime is wandering the colourful bazaars. While the Grand Bazaar is one of the most well-known with its sprawling passageways, the entire Bazaar District is a shopping paradise. Chase aromas at the Egyptian Spice Bazaar or hunt for bibliographic gold at the Sahaflar Çarsısı (Beyazit Book Bazaar).
Best time to travel
Istanbul is one of those cities that begs a revisit in different seasons. The weather fosters new activities, from the cold beauty of winter to the sweltering summer. October and spring are favoured for sightseeing and al fresco dining, thanks to the fine weather in Istanbul.
March – June
Springs are mild with sunny days and comfortable sightseeing conditions. Festivals are in full swing, and gardens bloom. Footfall begins to increase as the season comes to an end, but this is generally a fine time to visit.
Weather
The weather in spring is pleasant, with early March temperatures of 8°C rising to 16°C in May. The chance of rain is always still there, but the late spring period is generally a local favourite.
Events & parties
Alluring events to look out for include Akbank Short Film Festival in March, the stunning Tulip Festival in April and Istanbul’s Film Festival in the same month. May is when you can catch Hıdrellez, a folk holiday celebrated with fire rituals.
Price evolution
Flights and accommodation tend to rise as the spring season progresses, with April providing the cheapest base costs. However, deals are still easily sought during this season, so it might pay to travel in the best weather. You can expect to pay 800 TL to 1800 TL per night during this season for a well-reviewed, 3 to 4-star hotel.
June – September
Summer is the peak travel season in Istanbul, with tourists travelling from home and abroad. With the rising temperatures, hotel costs increase, as do queues at major sites. For sun-lovers, this is a time to head out on the Bosphorus or bask in the sunshine at delightful Istanbul’s rooftop bars.
Weather
Summer swelters with average daytime temperatures growing from 22°C in June to highs of 28°C in August. The difference between night and daytime temperatures is also minimal, with only 3 rainy days per month.
Events & parties
This is the festival season with heavyweights like the Istanbul Music Festival in June, bringing in the world’s best classical musicians. July’s festivals include the Istanbul Jazz Festival and the Efes Pilsen One Love Festival.
Price evolution
As the peak season, prices can skyrocket, particularly if you book late. Flight deals can still be easily found, but hotel bargains are more difficult. Average hotel prices rise to 2,200 TL for non-luxury stays, so book in advance for the best rates.
September – December
Autumn, like spring, is favoured for its cooler temperatures and thinner crowds, making it ideal for Istanbul sightseeing. Catch the season early for the remnants of summer warmth and excellent deals on accommodation.
Weather
The start of autumn retains the warmth, with average temperatures of 21°C in September dropping to 12°C in November. While early autumn brings clearer days, you can expect far more rainfall as the season goes on, with November being one of Istanbul’s wettest months.
Events & parties
September kicks off Istanbul’s cultural season with the headliner Istanbul Biennial, the country’s premier contemporary art event. In October, music and arts continue with the Arkbank Jazz Festival and Istanbul Design Biennial. The latter, rainier days of autumn bring indoor events like the Istanbul Theatre Festival.
Price evolution
As a shoulder season, autumn sees great deals on flights and accommodation. Like spring, you can expect rates of 800 TL to 1800 TL per night at a standard 3 to 4-star hotel.
As the down season in Istanbul, you can expect excellent savings for budget travellers in winter. While outdoor bars and rooftop terraces may be out of the question, most attractions are at their least busy, with the chance of queuing next to zero.
Weather
Winter is cold with chilly spells, overcast days and the highest chance of rain. Average temperatures dip below 8°C and regularly reach lows of 3°C.
Events & parties
Istanbul’s baths and food beckon in winter. The Istanbul Gastronomy Festival is launched in December, and January sees Greek Orthodox calendar events. February brings the unusual Tatavla Festival, a Greek Orthodox carnival.
Price evolution
Winter sees the cheapest prices with bargain hotels and flight deals. You can find good hotels for as little as 500 TL per night.
What to see and do
How to get from the airport
Istanbul boasts two international airports that are well connected to the city centre. Some pre-planning is needed to ensure you choose the right service. As public transport options are better connecting with some districts, like Beyoğlu, over others, it may be easier to book one service over another. As such, taxis or free hotel shuttles are generally among the best ways to travel as they’re stress-free, comfortable and efficient.
Where to stay
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