Istanbul holidays

How to reach Istanbul

Istanbul, straddling two continents, is served by two main airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.

Flight Time: Direct flights from London to Istanbul typically take around 4 hours.

Transfer to the City Centre:

• From Istanbul Airport, a taxi to the city centre takes about 30-50 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs approximately 150-200 Turkish Lira (TRY). The Havaist airport shuttle also connects the airport to various parts of the city, with fares around 30-40 TRY.

• From Sabiha Gökçen, a taxi to the European side of Istanbul can take over an hour and costs around 200-250 TRY. The Havabus shuttle service offers a convenient option to Taksim Square for around 25 TRY.

Price of Different Transport Options: Istanbulkart, a rechargeable smart card, is used on public transport, including buses, metros, trams, ferries, and funiculars, making travel around the city convenient and affordable.

Best time to visit Istanbul

The ideal time for an Istanbul holiday depends on your expectations, with each season offering distinct experiences.

• Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) present mild weather, fewer crowds, and pleasant temperatures (average 11°C to 25°C), ideal for sightseeing.

• Summer (June to August) is warm and lively (average 20°C to 30°C), perfect for enjoying the Bosphorus and outdoor cafes, though it's also peak tourist season.

• Winter (December to February) is cooler and quieter (average 3°C to 10°C), with occasional rainfall, offering a different perspective on the city's charm.

High season coincides with summer, while low season is in winter.

Practical information for Istanbul holidays

• Spoken Languages: Turkish is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Turkish phrases is appreciated.

• Local Habits and Customs: Respect for local customs is important. Dress modestly when visiting mosques. Greetings are warm and often involve a handshake.

• Tips: Tipping is customary in restaurants (around 5-10%) and for services like taxis (rounding up the fare).

• Currency: The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the currency. ATMs are widespread, and credit cards are accepted in most establishments.

• Getting Around: Istanbul's public transport network is extensive. Taxis are available but ensure the meter is running or negotiate the fare in advance.

• Electricity/Plugs: The standard voltage is 220 V with type F plugs. UK visitors will need an adaptor.

This guide aims to equip you with essential information to navigate Istanbul confidently, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable holiday experience in this historic and vibrant metropolis.

Embarking on an Istanbul holiday is akin to stepping into a captivating blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This city, straddling two continents, offers an extraordinary array of experiences that promise adventure, relaxation, and a deep cultural immersion. Let’s explore the myriad of experiences that await in this enchanting city.

Things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city where continents collide and history whispers from every corner, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. From ancient landmarks to the bustling life of its streets and markets, the city has something for every traveller.

• Viewpoints and panoramas: For a stunning panoramic view of Istanbul and the Bosphorus, climb to the top of the Galata Tower. Another must-visit is the Çamlıca Hill, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunset.

• The best districts: The historic peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the heart of ancient Istanbul, home to iconic structures like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. For a taste of contemporary life, head to the lively Beyoğlu district, known for its vibrant streets, cafes, and arts scene.

• Parks and gardens: The Yıldız Park, with its vast expanse of greenery and views over the Bosphorus, is a peaceful retreat in the city. Similarly, Emirgan Park is renowned for its seasonal tulip displays, offering a colourful escape.

• Day trips in the area: A short ferry ride takes you to the Princes' Islands, a serene haven away from the hustle and bustle of the city. For those interested in history, the ancient ruins of Ephesus provide a fascinating day trip.

Activities for families in Istanbul

Istanbul holidays can be wonderfully enriching for families, with a variety of activities that cater to all ages.

• Swimming pools: The city boasts numerous family-friendly swimming pools, from luxury hotel pools with stunning views to public pools where locals gather to cool off.

• Playgrounds: Istanbul’s many parks, such as Gulhane Park and Fethi Paşa Korusu, offer spacious and well-maintained playgrounds for children to enjoy.

• Aquarium & zoos: The Istanbul Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, offers an educational journey through various marine habitats. The city also has a zoo in the district of Faruk Yalçın, which houses a variety of species in carefully curated settings.

Free things to do in Istanbul

Exploring Istanbul does not necessarily require a hefty budget. The city is rich in experiences that are both enriching and free.

• Free events/Museums: The Istanbul Modern Art Museum has free admission days, and the city often hosts free cultural events and exhibitions.

• Explore Istanbul by public transport: The public ferries offer a scenic and cost-effective way to explore the different facets of the city, including the Asian and European sides.

• Free guided tours: Several organizations offer free walking tours, providing valuable insights into the city's rich history and culture, from ancient Byzantine ruins to Ottoman architectural marvels.

Wellness in Istanbul

Istanbul’s wellness scene is deeply rooted in traditional practices, offering unique opportunities for relaxation and cultural immersion.

• Spas & thermal baths: Experience the traditional Turkish hammam, where you can enjoy a steam bath followed by a rejuvenating scrub and massage. The Cagaloglu and Suleymaniye Hammams are historic and popular choices.

• Traditional body care: Indulge in natural treatments, such as massages with aromatic oils and therapies using local ingredients like Turkish clay, reflecting the city’s rich wellness traditions.

Nature & Outdoor activities in Istanbul

The natural and urban landscapes of Istanbul provide a stunning setting for a range of outdoor activities.

• Hiking: The Belgrad Forest offers a variety of trails, allowing you to explore the city’s lush surroundings and breathe in the fresh air.

• Outdoor activities: For the thrill-seekers, activities like paragliding over the Bosphorus or cycling on the city’s many bike paths offer an adrenaline rush against a backdrop of spectacular scenery.

A holiday in Istanbul is an invitation to immerse yourself in a city that delights the senses, sparks the imagination, and offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.

The best beaches in Istanbul

While Istanbul is more renowned for its historical sites and vibrant urban life, it also offers access to some lovely beaches, mainly along its coasts and nearby islands. Whether you're seeking a bustling public beach or a more secluded spot with amenities, there's a variety of options to enjoy a day by the sea.

• Public Beaches: Kilyos Beach on the Black Sea coast is one of the most popular public beaches accessible from Istanbul. It's known for its golden sands and clear waters, offering a refreshing escape from the city heat.

• Private Beaches with Charges: Many of the beaches in Istanbul, especially around the Princes' Islands and along the coasts of the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea, are part of private clubs or hotels. They often charge an entry fee but provide amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and sometimes even pools and entertainment services. Suma Beach in Kilyos and Solar Beach are among the notable ones.

• Beaches with Sunbeds and Facilities: Büyükada, the largest of the Princes' Islands, offers several well-equipped beaches such as Nakibey Plajı and Yörükali Plajı. These beaches charge for entry but provide sunbeds, changing facilities, and cafes, making for a comfortable day out.

Nearest beaches to Istanbul

• Florya Beach: Situated on the European side, close to the Atatürk Airport area, Florya offers a convenient beach experience with amenities and easy access from the city.

• Şile and Ağva Beaches: Located on the Black Sea coast, about a 1.5-hour drive from Istanbul, these beaches are known for their natural beauty, with Şile being particularly famous for its fine sand and clear waters. Ağva, slightly further away, provides a more tranquil setting, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

• Princes' Islands Beaches: Just a ferry ride away from the city, the beaches on the Princes' Islands, such as those on Büyükada and Heybeliada, offer a mix of public and private options. The islands themselves are car-free, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.

While Istanbul might not be the first destination that comes to mind for a beach holiday, the city and its surroundings offer several delightful spots for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying seaside leisure. These beaches provide both locals and tourists with a pleasant respite from the bustling city life, especially during the warm summer months.

Embark on a culinary adventure during your Istanbul holidays, where the rich tapestry of flavours and traditions invites you to explore and indulge.

Local dishes in Istanbul

Experience the heart of Turkish cuisine with dishes that blend centuries-old recipes with the city's unique cultural heritage.

Some typical dishes

• Köfte: Savour these famous Turkish meatballs at historical establishments for a taste of tradition.

• Kuru fasulye: A comforting bean stew, perfect for experiencing the homely side of Turkish cuisine.

Street food

• Simit: The Turkish bagel, ideal for on-the-go snacking.

• Döner kebab: No visit is complete without trying this iconic rotating spit-grilled meat.

Typical drinks

• Turkish tea and coffee: Essential to the Turkish dining experience, these drinks are both a welcome and a ritual.

• Ayran: A refreshing yogurt-based drink to accompany any meal.

Food markets

• The Spice Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and scents, discovering ingredients that define Turkish cooking.

This guide introduces you to the culinary delights of Istanbul, promising an unforgettable journey through the city's dining landscape.

Local sports events during Istanbul holidays

Istanbul, straddling two continents, is a city with a rich sporting culture, particularly known for its fervent love of football. To immerse yourself in local sports:

• Stadiums or Arenas: Experience the electrifying atmosphere of a football match at Vodafone Park, home to Beşiktaş JK, or the Türk Telekom Stadium, where Galatasaray SK plays. Fenerbahçe Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium is another iconic venue, hosting the matches of Fenerbahçe SK.

• Where to Go to Watch a Match: Join locals at one of the many sports cafes and bars in neighbourhoods like Beşiktaş and Kadıköy, where the game is more than just a match; it's a community event.

Sports facilities for travellers in Istanbul

For those looking to stay active, Istanbul offers a variety of sports facilities catering to different interests:

• Swimming-Pools: Enjoy indoor and outdoor swimming facilities at places like the Burhan Felek Swimming Pool.

• Yoga, Fitness, Dancing, Tennis: Modern gyms and studios across Istanbul, such as MAC Fit and Hillside City Club, offer day passes for visitors wanting to keep up with their fitness regime.

Cycling in Istanbul

Cycling is a growing trend in Istanbul, with the city developing more bike-friendly routes:

• Bike Rental: Services like İSPARK’s “İSBİKE” bike-sharing program make it easy to rent a bike and explore.

• Popular Cycling Routes: The Prince’s Islands offer a car-free environment ideal for cycling, while the coastline of the Bosphorus presents scenic routes for more experienced cyclists.

Hiking around Istanbul

Istanbul is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves and forests, offering great hiking opportunities:

• Hiking: The Belgrad Forest and the land surrounding the Bosphorus provide a range of trails that allow you to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature.

Water sports in Istanbul

Straddling the Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul offers various water sports activities:

• Water Sports: Engage in sailing, rowing, or even fishing tours to experience the city from its iconic waterways.

Winter sports near Istanbul

While Istanbul itself experiences mild winters, nearby mountain ranges offer winter sports activities:

• Winter Sports: Ski resorts like Kartepe, approximately a two-hour drive from Istanbul, offer skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.

Golf courses in Istanbul

Istanbul has several high-quality golf courses catering to enthusiasts and professionals alike:

• Golf Courses: The Kemer Golf & Country Club and the Istanbul Golf Club are among the top choices, offering beautiful greens and facilities in proximity to the city.

Exploring the sports culture in Istanbul provides a unique lens through which to experience the city, offering both traditional and modern activities that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels.

Seasonal events during Istanbul holidays

Istanbul's vibrant cultural tapestry is reflected in its diverse array of seasonal events, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the city's traditions and celebrations.

• New Year: Istanbul welcomes the New Year with grand celebrations, fireworks, and parties across the city, especially in bustling areas like Taksim Square and along the Bosphorus.

• Christmas Shopping & Markets: Although not traditionally celebrated widely in Istanbul, some areas, particularly in districts like Nişantaşı and around the İstiklal Avenue, offer holiday decorations and shopping opportunities in late December.

• Easter: While Turkey is predominantly Muslim, the Christian community in Istanbul observes Easter with services and celebrations, particularly in historic churches like St. Antoine of Padua and the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate.

• Gay Events: Istanbul Pride is an annual event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, though it faces varying degrees of official approval. When held, it's a vibrant expression of diversity and rights.

• Carnival: Not traditionally celebrated in Istanbul, but various expat and international schools may host their own carnival events.

Festivals in Istanbul

Istanbul's festivals are a showcase of the city's rich history, diverse culture, and contemporary vibrancy, drawing both locals and visitors.

• Istanbul Film Festival: Held in April, this festival features international and Turkish films, offering a platform for filmmakers and enthusiasts.

• Istanbul Music Festival: Taking place in June, this classical music festival hosts performances in historic venues across the city, celebrating both local and international talents.

• Istanbul Biennial: One of the most prestigious events in the world of contemporary art, held biennially in odd-numbered years, presenting works by international artists throughout the city.

• Istanbul Jazz Festival: July sees the city swing to the rhythms of jazz, with performances by renowned artists in various venues, including open-air concerts in historic settings.

• Istanbul Design Biennial: Showcasing the latest in design innovation, this event, held biennially in even-numbered years, includes exhibitions, workshops, and talks.

• Efes Pilsen Blues Festival: Although the schedule can vary, this festival brings blues musicians from around the world to Istanbul, typically held in the autumn.

• Istanbul Tulip Festival: Celebrating the flower that has become synonymous with the city, April's Tulip Festival transforms parks and gardens, especially Emirgan Park, into a spectacular display of colors.

These events and festivals offer a glimpse into Istanbul's soul, from its ancient roots to its modern pulse, providing unforgettable experiences for those who seek to explore beyond the surface.