DigivaIstanbul, Türkiye travel guide
Two continents, Hagia Sophia, Bosphorus cruises and bazaars. What it costs, when to go, where to stay and what to book.
Best time to visit
April-May and September-October for mild weather and smaller crowds. Winter is cold but cheapest.
Where to stay
Sultanahmet for first-timers near the main sights; Beyoğlu/Taksim for food and nightlife; Kadıköy on the Asian side for a local feel.
Top tours & bookings
Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque guided tour
A guide makes the history of Sultanahmet click — and helps you skip the worst queues.
Bosphorus sunset cruise
See palaces and both continents from the water — the best-value experience in the city.
Istanbul hotels — compare prices
Boutique hotels in Sultanahmet and apartments in Beyoğlu, with live prices.
Typical costs
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Flights (return, regional) | $200-$400 |
| Hotel, mid-range, per night | $45-$85 |
| Food, per day | $20-$35 |
| Tours & activities, per day | $20-$40 |
Planning a full trip? Add your own numbers in our Trip Budget Calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough for Istanbul?
4 days minimum; 5-6 lets you add a Bosphorus cruise and the Asian side.
Is Istanbul safe for tourists?
The main tourist areas are generally safe. Use normal city care with scams around taxis and overly friendly strangers near sights.
Which airport should I fly into?
Istanbul Airport (IST) serves most international flights; Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is common for budget airlines. Both have metro/bus links to the centre.
Prices are typical ranges checked when this guide was written and change by season and availability. Always check the live price before booking. Some links on this page are affiliate links.