Istanbul city breaks tick off two continents at once – cross from Europe to Asia and visit Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman sights.
City breaks to Istanbul
Istanbul serves up everything you could want from a city trip. For history, head to Sultanahmet – you’ve got ancient mosques covered in mosaics, a centuries-old Byzantine Hippodrome and more of the city’s major landmarks. Then, when you’ve had your fill of throwbacks, swap history for the high-street in Bakirkoy. Think massive malls, buzzy bars and cool brunch spots.
Strait to Asia
Did you know Istanbul’s the only city in the world that sits over two continents? One side’s in Europe and the other’s in Asia, with the Bosphorus Strait running right between them. Most of the big sights sit on the European side, so tick off the touristy bits before catching a quick ferry over to the Asian side for local markets and traditional restaurants.
Combo of cultures
Istanbul isn’t Turkey’s capital anymore, but it had plenty of main-character moments back in the day. The city’s been through Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and each era left its mark in a big way. You’ll see a 4th-century aqueduct, an intricate Byzantine church and Ottoman palaces sitting side by side – grab a drink at a rooftop bar and soak up Istanbul’s story through its skyline.
A city that can do both
This city loves a contrast. It’s a mix of East and West, past and present, tradition and trends. Neighbourhoods like Sultanahmet and Fener are all about the history, then wander over to Beyoglu for up-and-coming, urban vibes. We’re talking open spaces, edgy bars tucked down side streets and the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art. One minute it’s ancient, the next it’s cutting-edge.
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Istanbul FAQs
Yes, Istanbul is generally safe for tourists, with well-policed central areas and friendly locals. Just act like you would in any large city – watch out for pickpockets in touristy areas like Istiklal Street or the Grand Bazaar, and avoid unofficial taxis.
British Citizens travelling to Turkey for tourist purposes can travel without a visa for visits of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Your passport will need to be valid for at least 150 days (5 months) from the date you arrive and there should be a full blank page for the entry and exit stamps.
Please make sure you check the FCDO website for the most up-to-date information.
Istanbul’s must-see mosques include Hagia Sophia for its scale and mosaics, and the Blue Mosque with minarets and blue tiles. There’s also Süleymaniye Mosque with its sweeping Bosphorus views and the waterfront Ortaköy Mosque.
When you’re visiting a mosque, you should try and cover shoulders and knees. Women are also required to cover their hair with a scarf – scarves and wraps are usually available at mosque entrances, but bringing your own is easier. You’ll also need to take off your shoes before entering prayer areas.
Tap water in Istanbul is chlorinated and safe to drink, but locals usually prefer bottled water.
The best area to stay in Istanbul depends on the type of trip you’re after. For sightseeing, stay in Sultanahmet, which is close to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Beyoğlu and Taksim are great for nightlife and shopping. Karaköy and Galata are up-and-coming, then Kadıköy on the Asian side serves up a more local, laidback feel.
You should spend at least three days in Istanbul to tick off the highlights like Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace and a Bosphorus cruise. Make it a week and you’ll have time to explore more of the neighbourhoods, visit hammams and take daytrips to Princes’ Islands or Bursa.
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Istanbul travel advice
Passports and Visas
Your passport will need to be valid for at least 150 days (5 months) from the date you arrive and there should be a full blank page for the entry and exit stamps.
British Citizens travelling to Turkey for tourist purposes can travel without a visa for visits of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
We recommend you visit the FCDO website for the most up-to-date information – www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/turkey.
Don’t forget to arrange your travel money and insurance before you go.
Health and safety
You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/turkey/health
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