Istanbul
Istanbul, where east meets west, is a wonderful city to visit and with more great hotels in Istanbul than ever before, you're certain to find the one that's perfect for you. There's so much to do in Istanbul - why not take the Bosphorus ferry for a great view of one of the world's busiest waterways? You'll see numerous yalis or fabulous residences, mosques and palaces as well as riverside parks where you can hop off. The Haghia Sofia is one of Istanbul's most iconic buildings and the exquisite mosaics and domed chambers are breathtaking. The Galata tower was built in 1348 and restored in the 1960's. Ignore the awful nightclub and restaurant and head right to the viewing platform for spectacular views over the city. Whatever appeals to you, from fine dining, great nightlife and excellent shopping and accommodation, you'll be sure to find it in Istanbul, and with the right apartment or hotel you'll have a memorable break.
The Istanbul Four Seasons hotel is located in an old prison building. However there's nothing austere or punitive about this hotel, apart from possibly the rates. If you can afford the very best, it's the height of 5 star luxury in the heart of the Old city. The A'Jia is a chic and modern boutique hotel that is aimed at those looking for a great mid priced option, while the Richmond Hotel enjoys a superb location on Istiklal Caddesi, one of the city's premier shopping and nightlife streets. Perhaps an apartment break is what you had in mind. Choosing an apartment in Istanbul allows you lots of scope and you can rent your dream apartment from the owners or through an online apartment rental site. If you're on a more limited budget, try the Devman Hotel, which though cheap is well run and clean and just happens to be on one of the most trendy streets in the city.
From the perfect apartment, to the 5 star glamour of some of the top hotels in Istanbul, to the cheap but charming budget rate hotel which is a real find - Istanbul has it all.
What to see or do in and around Istanbul
Tarek,
Istanbul (Estambul)
Historic Busy Crowded City
I was travelling on my own with my wife without any group or travelling agent. And we stayed in historic European side Fatih/Istanbul. The locals cannot speak any language except their own on the most part, which make communications very difficult. The prices (in dollars) doubled in the last few months!! Locals are not friendly, with all due respect to the Turkish people. Public Transportation system is very good but has grave ticketing issues for the tourists. (Istanbul Card) for tourists has many issues to charge, and you cannot hop in any transportation vehicle except using this card which is for tourists. Taxis are hard to get by hailing or by apps like BiTaxi or Uber. Unless you are willing to pay three or four times the price! Food is not up to our expectations as Middle Eastern / American descendants and not cheap. People are smoking heavily in the streets. Stray cats everywhere. Huge, scary stray dogs are spotted. Women are safe walking at night in the streets, unlike other countries. Drivers are having (very low) road-rage, which is very good. Streets are steep to walk for older folks. Air conditions in closed areas are not cold enough sometimes they deliberately turn them off to save energy expenses.
Delia,
Istanbul (Estambul)
Amazing part of the world, so much history. Food was great; roads are crazy - don't advise driving!
The cisterns near the blue mosques were fascinating (photo attached) A must-do! I loved the food and eat streets around there. The food in Türkiye is exceptional if you like meat, not fab for someone with loads of dietary requirements. The grand bazaar and spice market are well worth the trip. We also loved the modern art museum.
Qmars,
Istanbul (Estambul)
Perfect
Istanbul is a destination that has it all. Beautiful sights to visit, excellent food, perfect shopping and good energy. Nice people, history as well as innovation. A recommended place to travel with friends as well as with family. No matter what season of the year, it is always fun there
Colby Briggs,
Istanbul (Estambul)
Great city with English challenges
Istanbul is a gem that bridges Western and Islamic cultures in a modern and safe environment. While the city is definitely the least English friendly place I've been (and I've done rural Vietnam), the people are clearly glad to have tourists here.
Wattad,
Istanbul (Estambul)
It's a very beautiful town, I liked it so much. It has so much to see: mosques, historical places, shopping, activities, etc.
Yunseon,
Istanbul (Estambul)
Gorgeous view, so happy
Mastaneh,
Istanbul (Estambul)
Love Istanbul.
Our favorite city. Loved it.
Parisa,
Istanbul (Estambul)
Grat location
Overall hotel is located in a very good touristic area where you have luxury shoppingand restaurants on one side and taksim on the other.
Saber,
Istanbul (Estambul)
Don't miss Istanbul from a boat.
The most interesting thing for me about istanbul was the trip with a cruise. View of the city and the sea from water is amazing do not miss it, when you go there!
Abdlhamid,
Istanbul (Estambul)
Restaurant the baklava is amazing.
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