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Destination Guide

Istanbul

The only city in the world spanning two continents — Ottoman palaces, bustling bazaars, and the Bosphorus in between.

Best Time to Visit
April – May & Sep – Nov
Known For
Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus
Galata Tower and Istanbul's rooftops at dusk
Why Visit

Two continents, one city.

Istanbul is genuinely unlike anywhere else — a city split by the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia, with over a thousand years of Byzantine and Ottoman history layered into every neighbourhood. It's a city built for wandering, from grand mosques to chaotic, wonderful bazaars.

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–November) bring the mildest, most comfortable weather for walking the city and cruising the Bosphorus, with smaller crowds than the summer peak.

Places to Visit

Where to spend your time.

01

Hagia Sophia & the Blue Mosque

Two of the world's most striking places of worship, standing across a small park from one another in the old city.

02

The Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar

One of the world's oldest covered markets — go to get lost, haggle, and graze your way through Turkish delight and baklava.

03

A Bosphorus Cruise

See the city from the water, passing palaces and waterfront mansions between the European and Asian shores.

Foods to Try

Eat like a local.

Turkish cuisine is one of the world's great food traditions — hearty, generous, and best eaten slowly over several courses.

Turkish Kebabs & Meze

From grilled skewers to a spread of small starter dishes — the backbone of a proper Turkish meal.

Baklava

Layers of paper-thin pastry, chopped nuts, and honey syrup — best from a proper Turkish sweet shop, not a supermarket.

Simit & Turkish Tea

A sesame-crusted bread ring sold on nearly every corner, paired with strong Turkish tea served in small tulip-shaped glasses.

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