Istanbul Travel Guide: Things to Know Before Visiting Istanbul
Planning a trip to Istanbul? This Istanbul travel guide covers everything you need to know before visiting Istanbul. From choosing the right neighborhood to stay in, to the best time to go, what to eat, and what not to miss.
Istanbul is a city where continents, cultures, and centuries meet. Once known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, it has been the capital of empires and a crossroads of trade, religion, and art.
Today, it’s Turkey’s largest city and cultural heart, known for its stunning mosques, lively bazaars, scenic waterfronts, and a mix of tradition and modern life. Every part of Istanbul has its own unique rhythm.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top attractions in Istanbul, must-do experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots, and the best areas to stay in Istanbul, whether you prefer historic charm or a lively modern vibe.
You’ll also find recommendations for restaurants and cafes in Istanbul with a view, the best hotels in Istanbul for every budget, and amazing sunset spots perfect for photographers and romantics.
We’ll also help you figure out the best time to visit Istanbul, how long to stay to make the most of your trip, and share insider tips on the best restaurants in Istanbul. And if you have extra time, we’ve included some of the best day trips from Istanbul that are well worth the journey.
This travel guide will help you plan your trip with confidence and enjoy the best of Istanbul.
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Istanbul travel tips for first-time visitors
⭐️ Top Istanbul Attractions
Hagia Sophia
Blue Mosque
Topkapi Palace
Grand Bazaar
Spice Bazaar
Galata Tower
Ortaköy Mosque
Süleymaniye Mosque
Dolmabahçe Palace
Basilica Cistern
📍 Must do experiences in Istanbul
Take a Bosphorus Cruise
Shop on Istiklal Street
Stroll through Balat
Savor Boza at the Vefa Bozacısı
Relax at a Turkish Hammam
Join a Food Tour in Istanbul
Explore Baklava, Coffee, and Tea Culture
Watch the Whirling Dervishes
Try hookah, also known as shisha
Related: Best Things to Do in Istanbul
🏠 Best areas to stay in Istanbul
Sultanahmet – close to major landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, ideal for first-time visitors
Eminönü – lively area known for the Spice Bazaar and the Galata Bridge
Karaköy – trendy, artsy area with cafes, boutique hotels, and galleries
Beyoğlu – lively and cosmopolitan, famous for Istiklal Avenue, shopping, dining, and nightlife
Beşiktaş – full of luxury hotels for a comfortable stay
🌅 Amazing sunset spots in Istanbul
Ortaköy Mosque & Bosphorus Bridge
Bosphorus Cruise
Taht Istanbul
Seven Hills
Eminönü Waterfront
Galata Tower
Sultanahmet Park
🍽Restaurants and cafes in Istanbul with a view
Seven Hills
360 Panorama Restaurant
Hanzade Terrace Restaurant
Barnathan Cafe & Brasserie
Queb Rooftop Restaurant
Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop
Deraliye Terrace
Turk Art Terrace Restaurant
🏨 Top hotels in Istanbul for every budget
Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul
Historical: Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet
With a view: Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci
Mid-range: Henna Hotel Istanbul
Affordable: Querencia Hotel
☀️ Best time to visit Istanbul
Best overall: Spring and Fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.
For vibrant energy: Summer, despite the heat and crowds.
For a peaceful experience: Winter, for quiet attractions and lower costs.
🕰 How long to stay in Istanbul
For a first-time visit, 3 days in Istanbul is ideal. It allows you to see the top attractions while still having time to explore different neighborhoods and enjoy the atmosphere.
If you want to explore more at a slower pace or venture out to nearby areas, 4 to 5 days would be perfect.
Related: How to Spend 3 Days in Istanbul
🥘 Best restaurants in Istanbul
$$$
Yeni Lokanta, Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine, Nusr-Et Steakhouse Sandal Bedesteni, Karaköy Lokantası
$$
Hanzade Terrace Restaurant, Mivan Restaurant & Cafe, Garden 1897 Restaurant, Antakya Mutfağı, Balıkçı Lokantası
$
Ekspres İnegöl Köftecisi, Dürümzade, Şeyhmuz Kebap Salonu, Old hipodrom terrace restaurant, Kral Kokoreç
For coffee, tea & baklava: Hafiz Mustafa 1864 Beyazıt, Tarihi Çınaraltı, Karaköy Güllüoğlu
🚗 Best day trips from Istanbul
Princes’ Islands
Gallipoli & Troy
Hierapolis & Pamukkale
Ephesus
Cappadocia
(intense 2-day trip, but great for a limited time)
💡 Istanbul do’s and don’ts
✅ Do
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques
- Carry cash
- Learn a few basic Turkish words
- Take off your shoes in mosques
- Haggle in bazaars
- Be cautious of scams
- Respect prayer times and local customs
❌ Don’t
- Don’t take photos inside mosques during prayer
- Don’t rely only on taxis
- Don’t drink tap water
- Don’t assume everyone speaks English
- Don’t forget to remove sunglasses and hats in mosques
🔒 Istanbul safety tips
Istanbul is generally a safe city for travelers, but it’s important to stay aware, especially in busy areas like Taksim, Sultanahmet, or on public transport. Keep your belongings close, use a crossbody bag, and avoid flashing valuables or large amounts of cash.
Stick to official taxis or use apps to avoid overcharging. At night, stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Be cautious of common tourist scams, like overly friendly strangers offering help or trying to guide you to a bar or shop.
Use ATMs inside banks, and don’t carry your passport around. Keep a copy and leave the original in your hotel safe. Most visits are trouble-free, and with a bit of caution, you can enjoy everything Istanbul has to offer with peace of mind.
I spent two weeks in Istanbul and never once felt unsafe. I don’t usually stay out late, but we were in the city for New Year’s Eve and couldn’t find a taxi after midnight. We ended up walking back to Sultanahmet in the middle of the night, and even then, it felt completely safe.
💰 Want to save money in Istanbul? Get the Istanbul E-pass, which includes top Istanbul attractions with the Skip The Line option (great if you have a packed itinerary!).
In conclusion…
This is the end of the ultimate Istanbul Travel guide, and by now, you are fully prepared for a smooth and fun trip to Istanbul.
I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.
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