Frequently asked questions
Istanbul: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is April-May, September-October. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Istanbul: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +30.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Istanbul: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +4.0°C, during the day — up to +12.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Istanbul: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on December-February. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Istanbul: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $123.00 (≈ 10 322 ₽ · ≈ 4 182 TRY) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Istanbul: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $20.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $70.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $120.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $250.00 per night, an apartment — $60.00 per night, a villa — $200.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Istanbul: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $15.00, dinner at a restaurant — $35.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $4.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Istanbul: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $30.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.20, a short taxi ride — $6.00, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Istanbul: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Hagia Sophia — The greatest monument of Byzantine architecture, built in 537 AD. Served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum. Impressive dome and mosaics.; Blue Mosque — One of the most beautiful mosques in Istanbul, built in 1616. Known for its blue tiles and six minarets.; Topkapi Palace — The residence of Ottoman sultans for 400 years. Impressive palaces, harems, and a collection of jewels.; Grand Bazaar — One of the largest covered markets in the world with over 4,000 shops. Carpets, jewellery, spices, and souvenirs are sold.; Galata Tower — A medieval tower with panoramic views of Istanbul. Built in 1348. A popular spot for photo shoots.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Istanbul: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Simit — A sesame-crusted ring of dough, a traditional Turkish street food. Crispy outside and soft inside.; Balik Ekmek — A sandwich with fried fish, onion, and salad in fresh bread. Popular street food near the Galata Bridge.; Doner Kebab — Meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, served in lavash or with rice. The national dish of Turkey.; Lahmacun — Turkish thin pizza with minced meat, tomatoes, and spices. Popular street food.; Midye Dolma — Mussels stuffed with aromatic rice and spices. Served with lemon.; Kokorec — Fried lamb intestines wrapped in bread. Popular street food, especially at night.; Baklava — Layered pastry with nuts and syrup. A classic Turkish dessert.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Istanbul: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Sultanahmet — The historic centre with the main attractions. An ideal place for a first introduction to the city.; Beyoglu — A modern area with hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops. Popular among young people and tourists.; Karakoy — An area with boutique hotels, cafes, and art galleries. Popular among the creative intelligentsia.; Galata — The area around the Galata Tower with authentic cafes and shops.; Kadikoy — The Asian part of the city with local markets and restaurants. Popular among locals.; Besiktas — A prestigious area with hotels, restaurants, and a promenade. Popular among wealthy residents and tourists.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Istanbul: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Istanbul: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Аэропорт Стамбул (code IST). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $30.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Istanbul: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — TRY. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $123.00 (≈ 10 322 ₽ · ≈ 4 182 TRY). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Istanbul: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Istanbul: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Istanbul: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Princes Islands — An archipelago in the Sea of Marmara 20 km from Istanbul. No cars, with beautiful beaches and pine forests.; Bursa — A city 150 km from Istanbul, known for its historical monuments and the Uludag ski resort.; Edirne — A city 230 km from Istanbul, known for its Selimiye Mosque, a masterpiece by architect Sinan.; Iznik — A city 130 km from Istanbul, known for its ceramics and historical monuments.; Abant — A nature park 150 km from Istanbul with lakes and forests. A popular place for nature recreation.; Sile — A coastal town 70 km from Istanbul with beaches and a lighthouse. A popular destination for a day trip.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
