See what the experts are saying about Istanbul. Get expert advice on how to get there, what to see and more.
-
Introduction
Istanbul is such a diverse city that it's almost impossible to split it up into definable districts. The only real distinction that can be made is between the European and Asian sides, which are separated by the Bosphorus Strait. Stretching f... Continue reading »
-
History
Byzantium A settlement on Sarayburnu was established around 655 BC. Triangular in shape, with water on two sides, it was a ready-made fortress. To the north, this peninsula later to be named the "Golden Horn" (Haliç in Turkish) formed a na... Continue reading »
-
Where to stay
Whether you feel like staying in an Ottoman palace, a family home, a restored mansion, a traditional wooden house, a converted prison or a youth hostel, you will certainly find all of the above in Istanbul. Following a recent boom in tourism,... Continue reading »
-
Eat drink
Dining Turks are purists in their culinary taste: each dish is meant to highlight the flavor of the main ingredient, so you won't find your food smothered in sauces and spices. Herbs and spices are used sparingly and singularly: either min... Continue reading »
-
Entertainment
Whatever the season or the weather there is always something to do and see in Istanbul 24 hours a day. In spring and summer time, festivals follow closely on each other's heels, starting with the International Istanbul Film Festival in April.... Continue reading »
-
Tours
The best way to see most of Istanbul is on foot. What seems to be a somewhat formidable task is simplified by breaking each walk down into smaller sections of the city. The most touristy but also historical part of town is the old city, Sulta... Continue reading »
-
Getting there
Getting There: By Air: Atatürk International Airport (IST) Atatürk International Airport (http://www.ataturkairport.com) has numerous airline service providers including: Air France (+90 212 663 0600 / http://www.airfrance.com)... Continue reading »
-
Fun facts
Istanbul Province: Istanbul Country: Turkey Istanbul By The Numbers: Population: 10,000,000 (though some estimates have it millions higher) Elevation: 121 feet Average Annual Rainfall: 25.8 inches Average Annual Snowfall:... Continue reading »
-
Introduction
First-time visitors to Istanbul often leave home with foggy yet preconceived notions about what this storied and mysterious destination will be like. And while visitors will have their own opinions and ideas on what to look forward to, in Ist... Continue reading »
-
Frommer's favorite experiences
Taking a hamam: The Turkish bath, rising out of the Islamic requirement of cleanliness, is not just practical; it's relaxing as well. A good hamam experience includes the proper traditional ambience and a heavy-handed scrubbing. For historica... Continue reading »
-
Best dining bets
Noshing waterside at Eminonu: For 12 to 14 hours a day, the Tarihi Eminonu Balikcisi grills fresh fish quayside, wrapped in a roll and presented for a spectacular 3YTL ($2.60/#1.15) by a gracious man in traditional costume. Grab your sandwich... Continue reading »
-
Best hotel bets
Ciragan Palace (tel. 0212/258-3377; www.ciraganpalace.com): More than just Istanbul's poshest hotel, the Ciragan Palace is a destination in its own right. The grandeur of the lobby -- tinted by light coming through the stained glass and imbue... Continue reading »
Real traveler experience in Istanbul
Top Istanbul Deals
Popular Istanbul Hotels
- Erguvan Hotel Istanbul
- Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
- Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
- The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul
- Yasmak Sultan
- Stone Hotel Istanbul
- The Boutique Amisos Hotel
- Allstar Ambassador Hotel
- Ceylan InterContinental
- Conrad Istanbul
