Istanbul

Travel Guide
Istanbul
A delightful fusion of European and Asian culture awaits in the capital of Turkey. A fantastic array of historic buildings intersperse a dynamic, modern city.

Istanbul offers the best of old and new, of both East and West. Shoppers will be kept occupied by the best department stores and luxury boutiques, while the city also displays its rich heritage with the many bazaars, mosques, and palaces. The warm climate of the eastern Mediterranean makes this a very easy place to enjoy and to fall in love with.

Historically, Istanbul is identified as the point where Europe meets Asia, at the crossing of the Bosphurus Strait, and has a population of over 13 million people. It was also the centre of power for the Byzantine Empire. More recently the Ottoman Empire, whose rule stretched at one point from Persia to the gates of Vienna, made it its capital. Ottoman rule was in turn succeeded by the establishment of modern-day Turkey in 1923.

All of this rich history is reflected in the complex and fascinating development of the city's diverse built heritage. First on many itineraries is a visit to the Old City where you'll trace the repeated rises and falls of Istanbul and its empires among the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı), the Hippodrome (Hipodrom) and the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque). The Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) – a survivor from the 14th century – offers views over these and much of the other architecture of interest throughout the city. The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Carsı) is the beating heart of life here, and is also a wonderful place to pick up souvenirs. Miniaturk allows you to see the city in miniature, while you can enjoy some well-earned cool chillout time at the underground Basilica Cistern.

Crossing the straits into the New City, you are met by a very different experience – modern-day Turkey. Contemporary Western design is to be found in the many skyscrapers, the shopping areas and the vibrant nightclubs. Taksim Square is the centre of this part of the city, with business executives rubbing shoulders with the cool young people of Istanbul.

Public transport is very easily accessible – an Istanbulkart allows you access to it all. Make good use of it, and see the Beylerbeyi Palace from the ferry across the Bosphurus Strait.

Istanbul offers centuries of history and change, alongside all of the conveniences and attractions of a modern city. The past and the present are linked in this fascinating melting pot of cultures.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
4 out of 5
Piyer Loti Cad No:7, Istanbul, Istanbul, 34122
The price is ₹9,681 per night from 28 Mar to 29 Mar
₹9,681
per night
28 Mar - 29 Mar
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in their ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,005 reviews)
"Excellent location. Walking distance to saint Sophia"

Reviewed on 23 Mar 2023

Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Pera Palace Hotel
Pera Palace Hotel
5 out of 5
Mesrutiyet Cad. No. 52, Tepebasi Beyoglu, Istanbul, Istanbul, 34430
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ₹23,634 per night from 2 Apr to 3 Apr
₹23,634
per night
2 Apr - 3 Apr
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 coffee shops/cafes and breakfast. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (999 reviews)
"It is a very unique hotel with history."

Reviewed on 16 Mar 2023

Pera Palace Hotel
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
5 out of 5
Suzer Plaza, Askerocagi Caddesi, No:6, Elmadag/Sisli, Istanbul, 34367
The price is ₹27,377 per night from 8 Apr to 9 Apr
₹27,377
per night
8 Apr - 9 Apr
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool and 5 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the bathrooms in their ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (544 reviews)
"I spent a few days in hotel. It was nice days. The staff was professional. You can choose restaurants in lobby level. Also great view from my room on Bosporus bridge."

Reviewed on 21 Mar 2023

The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Element Suites
Element Suites
3 out of 5
Sehit Muhtar Mah Turan Cad Cevza Sok 2, Istanbul, 34435
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly aparthotel in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
5.4/10 (217 reviews)
"Stayed in the family duplex for 1 night. There was mold above the bed and not much cookware in the kitchen. Everything else was ok."

Reviewed on 6 Apr 2022

Element Suites
Tarabya Suites
Tarabya Suites
Kirecburnu Mah. Araba Yolu Cad., Yeni Bahar Sk. No 12, Sariyer, Istanbul Region, 34457
Stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Sariyer. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Consulate General of the United ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (19 reviews)
"Nice stay cooperative staff. Clean..suitable for family Balcony. Sea veiw I like it"

Reviewed on 10 Aug 2022

Tarabya Suites
G Tower Residences
G Tower Residences
Mimar Sinan Cd 35, Istanbul, Istanbul, 34209
Stay at this business-friendly residence in Istanbul. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions 212 Istanbul Power Outlet and Istanbul ...
7.8/10 Good! (68 reviews)
"The Reception Staff were very helpful and efficient and quick and provided everything we needed. We recommend this accommodation as it is flexible and value for money. Thanks"

Reviewed on 5 Jan 2023

G Tower Residences
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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