Marmara
Istanbul
Turkey’s largest city, known for historic neighborhoods, Bosphorus views, mosques, palaces, museums, food, shopping, and major international airports.
Quick facts
Good to Know
Istanbul is Turkey’s largest and most visited city, where historic landmarks, local neighborhoods, Bosphorus views, museums, markets, and modern city life come together.
Most travelers visit Istanbul for places such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, Galata, Karakoy, Kadikoy, and the Bosphorus. The city can feel intense at first, but with a clear plan it becomes one of the most rewarding stops in Turkey.
Istanbul works well as the starting or ending point of a Turkey itinerary because of its international airports and strong flight connections to Cappadocia, Izmir, Denizli, Antalya, and Eastern Turkey.
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Start With Main Guides
Istanbul Airport to City Center: Metro, Shuttle, Taxi or Transfer?
A practical guide to getting from Istanbul Airport to central Istanbul, including metro, Havaist shuttle, taxi, private transfer and hotel-area advice.
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Continue Planning Your Trip
Explore practical travel guides, airport routes, itineraries, and booking resources for your visit.