Travel guide

Istanbul

Two continents, one legendary city

🗓️ Best time: April–May, September–October💰 Budget · ~$60/day📍 Turkey

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About Istanbul

The only city that spans Europe and Asia — Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus ferries, and some of the world's best street food.

⭐ Things to do in Istanbul

Hagia SophiaBlue MosqueGrand BazaarBosphorus cruiseTopkapi PalaceChora Church mosaicsBalat neighborhoodPrinces' Islands day trip

🍽️ Where to eat in Istanbul

Real, top-rated restaurants — tap to see hours, reviews and menus.

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Old Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant

★ 4.8 (308) · Cafes · Kebab

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Çiya Sofrası

★ 4.2 (195) · Turkish

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Antakya Restaurant

★ 4.3 (182) · Turkish · Seafood

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Dürümzade

★ 4.6 (127) · Kebab · Wraps

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Hamdi Restaurant

★ 3.7 (118) · Turkish · Cafes

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Mikla

★ 4.3 (98) · Scandinavian · Bars

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Zübeyir Ocakbaşı

★ 4.2 (94) · Barbeque

★ 4.7 (83) · Turkish · Chicken Wings

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Karaköy Lokantası

★ 4.3 (76) · Turkish · Bars

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Antiochia

★ 4.4 (71) · Turkish · Barbeque

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Eleos Restaurant

★ 4.4 (68) · Seafood · Greek

✈️ Know before you go

🚕 Getting around

Trams, ferries, metro; use Istanbulkart.

💡 Local tip

Take the Bosphorus public ferry ($1) instead of tourist cruises.

🛡️ Safety

Generally safe. Watch for tourist-area scams.

🌙 Nightlife

Kadıköy for local bars; Beyoğlu for rooftops; Karaköy for craft cocktails.