Türkiye
Istanbul
Our notebook to help you plan your trip to Istanbul: the right season, where to stay and our ideas to make the most of it.
Between Europe and Asia, on both sides of the Bosphorus: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar and street food you won't forget.
Best weatherIn spring and autumn: mild weather, and tulips in spring. Summer is hot.
A question?
Wéa answers about this destination: neighbourhoods, seasons, ideas.
When to go
Every season has its charm. Here's how to choose yours, depending on what you want to experience.
Tulip festival
In April, millions of tulips bloom in the parks, like at Emirgan, and the city is soft and bright.
The Bosphorus in summer
Bosphorus cruises, the Princes' Islands, rooftop terraces and long evenings.
Lovely late season
It's mild, and there are fewer people at Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar.
Winter Istanbul
Hammams, salep and hot tea, quiet museums and sometimes the city under snow, all at low prices.
Where to stay
The right neighbourhood depends on what you're after. Here are our favourite places to stay.
Sultanahmet
The old town and its monuments, all doable on foot.
Beyoğlu
Around İstiklal Avenue and Galata Tower: bars, restaurants and nightlife.
Karaköy
A former port district turned trendy, on the Bosphorus.
Kadıköy
On the Asian side: markets, cafés and a local vibe, 20 minutes by ferry.
Our favourites
What we love there: its history, its landscapes, its flavours and its festivals. Take your time, it's all there to enjoy.
Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque
Facing each other on Sultanahmet Square, these two monuments are at the heart of the historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Ideal for history lovers
Topkapı Palace
Home to the Ottoman sultans for centuries, it offers courtyards, tiled pavilions and a superb view over the Bosphorus.
Ideal for the curious
The Grand Bazaar
One of the largest covered markets in the world: thousands of shops selling rugs, lanterns, spices and jewellery. Take time to chat over a cup of tea.
Ideal for shopping
A Bosphorus cruise
Between Europe and Asia, the boat glides past palaces, mosques and wooden houses. On the quay, try a simit, the sesame bread ring sold everywhere.
Ideal for great views