Istanbul
Turquie
Istanbul, the city where East meets West, is a vibrant and historic metropolis located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Former capital of three great empires – Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman – it is filled with impressive monuments, bustling bazaars, and picturesque neighborhoods that tell millennia of history.
Wandering its streets means discovering a unique blend of cultures, flavors, and atmospheres, from majestic mosques and splendid palaces to traditional cafés. The city also offers a lively nightlife and a flourishing contemporary art scene.
Visiting Istanbul is immersing yourself in a cosmopolitan yet authentic atmosphere, where every corner holds a surprise, from the shimmering Bosphorus to colorful markets. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a gastronomy lover, or a curious traveler, Istanbul will charm you with its timeless allure.
Don't miss
Top 10 attractions
Sainte-Sophie
Former Byzantine basilica turned mosque then museum, a major symbol of Istanbul.
Mosquée Bleue
Iconic mosque known for its six minarets and beautiful blue tiles.
Palais de Topkapi
Residence of Ottoman sultans featuring treasures and panoramic gardens.
Grand Bazar
One of the largest covered markets in the world, perfect for traditional shopping.
Basilique Sainte-Irène
Ancient Byzantine church, often less crowded, with a peaceful atmosphere.
Croisière sur le Bosphore
Boat ride offering spectacular views of the European and Asian shores.
Quartier de Galata
Lively neighborhood with the famous Galata Tower and trendy cafés.
Musée d'Art Moderne d'Istanbul
Collection of contemporary Turkish and international art with a Bosphorus view.
Marché aux Épices
Colorful market dedicated to spices, dried fruits, and local specialties.
Parc de Gülhane
Peaceful public garden near Topkapi Palace, ideal for a nature break.
Weather-adapted
What to do based on the weather?
Best activities based on today's weather conditions
- Boat ride on the Bosphorus
- Walking tour of the Sultanahmet district
- Discover the Gülhane Gardens
- Stroll along the Asian shore at Kadıköy
- Enjoy artisanal ice cream on a terrace
- Visit the Museum of Modern Art
- Shopping at the Grand Bazaar
- Discover the Spice Market
- Relax at a traditional Turkish bath (hammam)
- Morning Bosphorus cruise
- Break at cafés with iced mint tea
- Visit air-conditioned museums like Hagia Sophia
- Visit historic mosques
- Tasting hot Turkish specialties (soup, çay)
- Relaxing session at a traditional hammam
- Explore the streets of Galata
- Try local street food (simit, börek)
- Attend a whirling dervishes show
Itineraries
How much time do you have?
1 day
The essentials
9:00
Visit Hagia Sophia
Arrive early to avoid the crowds
11:00
Discover the Blue Mosque
Respect prayer times when visiting
13:00
Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi restaurant
Try the traditional köfte
15:00
Walk through Gülhane Park
Perfect for a nature break and photos
19:00
Dinner and evening at a restaurant with Bosphorus views
Book a table in advance
Weekend
3 days
Day 1 morning
Visit Topkapi Palace
Allow 2-3 hours to explore everything
Day 1 afternoon
Walk through the Grand Bazaar
Negotiate prices with a smile
Day 1 evening
Dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant
Try the varied meze
Day 2 morning
Bosphorus cruise
Choose a short 1-2 hour cruise
Day 2 afternoon
Visit the Museum of Modern Art
Enjoy the view of the Bosphorus
Day 2 evening
Evening in the Galata district
Discover local cafés and bars
Day 3 morning
Discover the Spice Market
Perfect for buying gourmet souvenirs
Day 3 afternoon
Visit the Hagia Irene Church
A peaceful spot away from the crowds
Day 3 evening
Dinner at a fish restaurant in Kumkapı
Try the fresh seafood
1 week
Full immersion
Day 1 morning
Visit Hagia Sophia
Arrive early to avoid the crowds
Day 1 noon
Lunch at Sultanahmet Köftecisi
Local specialties at a reasonable price
Day 1 afternoon
Blue Mosque and Gülhane Park
Enjoy the gardens to relax
Day 1 evening
Dinner with Bosphorus views
Reservation recommended
Day 2 morning
Topkapi Palace
In-depth visit of the treasures
Day 2 afternoon
Grand Bazaar
Negotiate with a smile
Day 2 evening
Traditional dinner and whirling dervishes show
Book in advance
Day 3 morning
Bosphorus cruise
Ideal for photos and relaxation
Day 3 afternoon
Museum of Modern Art
Temporary exhibitions to discover
Day 3 evening
Evening in the Galata district
Trendy bars and cafés
Day 4 morning
Spice Market
Taste the local specialties
Day 4 afternoon
Hagia Irene Church
A historic haven of peace
Day 4 evening
Dinner in Kumkapı, the fish district
Fresh seafood not to be missed
Day 5 morning
Visit Kadıköy district (Asian side)
Local atmosphere and markets
Day 5 afternoon
Relax at a traditional hammam
Book your session in advance
Day 5 evening
Dinner at a Turkish fusion restaurant
Try the modern reinterpreted dishes
Day 6 morning
Walk through the streets of Balat
A colorful and historic district
Day 6 afternoon
Visit the Rahmi M. Koç Museum (industrial and transport museum)
Ideal for technology enthusiasts
Day 6 evening
Jazz evening at a local club
Intimate atmosphere with talented musicians
Day 7 morning
Shopping and brunch in the Nişantaşı district
A chic and modern district
Day 7 afternoon
Visit Dolmabahçe Palace
The last great imperial residence
Day 7 evening
Closing dinner at a fine-dining restaurant
Book a table with panoramic views
Getting around
Transport & Getting Around
Metro / Subway
The fastest underground network to get around the city.
Bus & Tram
Ideal for areas not served by the metro, with city views.
Tourist pass
Combined transport + museum card, often worthwhile from 2 days.
Bike / Scooter
Self-service bike stations available in most major cities.
Airport → City center
Shuttle, express train or taxi depending on local availability.
Recommended app
Download the local transport app or Google Maps for schedules.
Local tip
Tips: Leaving 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated. For taxis, rounding up the fare is customary.
Before you go
Practical info
Budget & Payment
Bank cards accepted everywhere in major cities
Local currency: Lire (TRY)
ATMs available in city centers
Tipping: 5-10% recommended in restaurants
Budget: The cost of living is reasonable; favor local restaurants for good value.
Safety & Tips
Keep a copy of your passport on your phone
Wear shoulder bags in front in tourist areas
Leave valuables in the hotel safe
Share your location with someone you trust
Language & Phrases
Language(s): Turc
Expert tips
Safety: Istanbul is generally safe; stay alert in crowded tourist areas and avoid isolated neighborhoods at night.
Food: Try specialties like simit, kebab, baklava, and Turkish tea. Avoid tap water; drink bottled water instead.
Shopping: Always bargain in bazaars but be respectful. Typical souvenirs include spices, carpets, and ceramics.
Plan your trip
When to visit Istanbul?
Score /10 based on weather, crowds and events
Jan
8°C
4/10
Feb
9°C
5/10
Mar
12°C
7/10
Apr
16°C
★
May
20°C
★
Jun
24°C
★
Jul
28°C
6/10
Aug
28°C
6/10
Sep
24°C
★
Oct
18°C
★
Nov
13°C
6/10
Dec
9°C
5/10
Real-time weather in Istanbul
15-day forecast · AI analysis · Activities adapted to the weather of the day
View full forecast