Travel to Istanbul

Things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul offers a vibrant blend of city and cultural experiences, perfect for tourists seeking adventure. Explore bustling public markets and shopping areas, where you can immerse yourself in local life. Don't miss the adjacent tours that showcase the city's rich history, and be sure to enjoy the active nightlife, featuring lively bars and entertainment options. Istanbul promises a memorable vacation filled with unique activities and experiences.

Shopping

In Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar offers a vibrant market experience with countless shops for unique souvenirs. For a more modern shopping spree, visit the Mall of Istanbul and Viaport Outlet Shopping, both featuring a mix of entertainment and family-friendly amenities alongside a variety of retail options.

Recreation

At Ataturk Olympic Stadium, immerse yourself in the invigorating atmosphere of sports and fitness activities. Rams Park offers a similarly energetic vibe, perfect for outdoor workouts. For a serene escape, Cilingoz Nature Park invites you to unwind amidst nature, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and mindfulness.

Adventure

Istanbul Karting Park offers exhilarating karting experiences, perfect for thrill-seekers looking to race against friends. Paintball Turka provides an adrenaline-pumping environment for paintball enthusiasts, while Istanbul Park caters to motorsport fans with its electrifying motor racing events, ensuring an action-packed day out in the city.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting nightlife of Istanbul at Mekan Arti, where romance and culture blend beautifully in theatrical performances. For a thrilling adventure, visit The Game For Big Kids, an arcadeAdventureZone filled with excitement. Don't miss the Cemil Topuzlu Open Air Theatre for captivating shows under the stars.

Find the best attractions in Istanbul

Istanbul is a captivating destination perfect for city, culture, and business-themed vacations. Visitors can explore an array of attractions, including stunning mosques, picturesque beaches, and historical churches. With a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and outdoor activities, Istanbul offers something for every traveller, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this vibrant city and its surroundings.

• Taksim Square: Taksim Square is a vibrant hub of culture and city life in Istanbul, known for its lively atmosphere, cafés, and shops. It's a perfect spot to experience the local vibe and enjoy people-watching while surrounded by stunning architecture.
• Blue Mosque: The Blue Mosque, with its stunning blue tiles and impressive domes, is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Visitors can admire its grandeur and tranquil atmosphere, making it a significant cultural and spiritual landmark in Istanbul.
• Hagia Sophia: Once a cathedral and later a mosque, Hagia Sophia is renowned for its rich history and breathtaking mosaics. This architectural marvel offers a unique glimpse into the Byzantine era, showcasing centuries of cultural evolution.

Best time to go to Istanbul

The best time to visit Istanbul can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Istanbul falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Istanbul falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Istanbul

To save money during your visit to Istanbul, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices drop. Explore iconic sites like Taksim Square, the Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge, which are free to enter. Use public transport such as the metro, tram, bus, and ferry for affordable travel. Booking on a Saturday generally offers the best rates, while Thursdays are pricier. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find eco-friendly hotels and the best package deals that combine accommodation, flights, and activities for additional savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Istanbul are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Istanbul is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Istanbul is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will reveal a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Istanbul with your flights and activities by choosing an Expedia package.