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Picture of Istanbul, İstanbul, Türkiye

Travel Guide for
Istanbul

Türkiye

Mediterranean, hot summers, mild winters

Introduction

Istanbul, where Europe meets Asia, is a city steeped in history and vibrant culture. Wander through ancient sites like the Hagia Sophia and the fragrant Grand Bazaar, or cruise the Bosphorus at sunset—a magical experience for couples.

In late June, the city enjoys warm, sunny weather, perfect for exploring bustling neighborhoods and relaxing at charming cafes. Enjoy romantic evenings in Sultanahmet’s lamp-lit courtyards or savor Turkish cuisine along the waterfront. Istanbul’s alluring blend of history, scenery, and hospitality make it an unforgettable romantic getaway.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleRomantic getaway

Dates23-25 June 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

gastronomyfestivals and eventsoutdoor adventuressightseeing and tours

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Picture of Istanbul, İstanbul, Türkiye

Key Facts

Location

Marmara Region

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Religion

Islam (Sunni dominant)

Population

15,840,900

Language

Turkish, English widely spoken

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type C/F plugs

Time zone

UTCTRT (UTC+3)

Country code

+90

Internet access

Widespread 4G/5G, WiFi in hotels/cafes

Climate

Mediterranean, hot summers, mild winters

See More Türkiye Facts

Language:

Turkish

  • hello

    merhaba (mehr-ha-ba)
  • goodbye

    hoşça kal (hosh-cha kal)
  • yes

    evet (eh-vet)
  • no

    hayır (ha-yuhr)
  • how much

    bu ne kadar? (boo neh ka-dar)
  • please

    lütfen (loot-fen)
  • thank you

    teşekkür ederim (teh-shehk-kyoor eh-deh-reem)
  • excuse me

    affedersiniz (ahf-feh-der-sin-iz)

Map

Logistics

Istanbul is well-connected globally, making it easy to reach for a romantic getaway. Most international visitors arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST), which serves flights from major cities worldwide—booking in advance can help secure good deals. Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is another option, especially for flights within Europe.

High-speed trains and intercity buses link Istanbul to other Turkish cities, offering scenic and affordable travel. Ferries connect the European and Asian sides of the city, as well as nearby destinations along the coast—a romantic way to enjoy the Bosphorus. Late June usually brings warm, sunny weather, but you may want to confirm your travel arrangements early, as this is a popular season for visitors.

Weather

Istanbul has a temperate climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, rainy winters. Spring and autumn are especially pleasant, featuring mild temperatures and occasional showers, making them ideal for exploring the city on foot, enjoying street festivals, or taking Bosphorus tours. Summer temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with humidity occasionally making it feel hotter.

From June 23 to June 25, expect warm and mostly sunny weather, perfect for outdoor adventures, sightseeing, and enjoying Istanbul’s vibrant gastronomy scene. While short rain showers are possible, extreme weather events are rare during this period. The evenings are comfortable, making it a great time to enjoy city festivals and lively open-air events.

Food & Drink

Istanbul’s cuisine shines with dishes like meze, fresh seafood, succulent kebabs, and classic Turkish breakfasts. Don’t miss simit (sesame bread rings) or baklava with Turkish tea or thick coffee. Enjoy romantic dining at spots like Mikla (modern Turkish with sweeping views), or try Karaköy Lokantası for authentic, candlelit ambiance.

For cozy cafe experiences, visit Mandabatmaz for renowned Turkish coffee or Çınaraltı in Çengelköy for tea by the Bosphorus. Romantic bars like 5.Kat offer rooftop cocktails with city lights. Tipping is customary at 5–10%. Many restaurants cater to vegetarians, but check for dishes containing yogurt or nuts; reservation is advised for evening dining.

A picture of Kebab

Kebab

Kebab is a famous Turkish dish consisting of meat that is either skewered and grilled or cooked in...

A picture of Manti

Manti

Manti is a type of Turkish dumpling filled with spiced ground meat and served with yogurt and a...

A picture of Baklava

Baklava

Baklava is a sweet, rich pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with...

A picture of Turkish Delight

Turkish Delight

Turkish Delight, also known as Lokum, is a confection made from starch and sugar, flavored with various fruit...

A picture of Menemen

Menemen

Menemen is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish made with tomatoes, peppers, and eggs, all cooked together to create...

Accommodation

For a romantic getaway on an average budget, consider staying in the charming Sultanahmet or Karaköy neighborhoods. Sultanahmet offers boutique hotels like White House Hotel Istanbul, perfectly located near the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, while Karaköy features stylish stays such as 10 Karaköy Istanbul, offering a modern touch near the waterfront.

Beyoğlu is another wonderful option, especially around Galata Tower, blending vibrant nightlife and romantic rooftop views. Booking.com and Expedia are popular for comparing hotel deals and guest reviews. Since late June is a busy travel season in Istanbul, it’s wise to reserve your room early for the best rates and availability. Istanbul’s best hotels often include breakfast and stunning Bosphorus views for a memorable stay.

Itinerary

Experience the captivating blend of Istanbul’s rich history and vibrant gastronomy as you explore iconic sites and sample local flavors together.

Morning Tour of the Hagia Sophia

Step into Istanbul’s legendary history as you explore the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. Admire its grandeur, marvel at its mosaics, and soak in centuries of culture together. Go early to beat the crowds and enjoy a quiet morning stroll.

Lunch at a Traditional Meyhane

Relish a leisurely lunch at a classic Istanbul meyhane, sampling meze platters, fresh seafood, and local raki. Enjoy authentic flavors and lively ambiance—perfect for a romantic, flavor-packed afternoon pause.

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise

Set sail on a scenic Bosphorus cruise at sunset for breathtaking views of two continents. Capture magical moments as the city lights illuminate historic shores—a truly romantic Istanbul experience!

Morning Istanbul: Half-Day Tour with Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar

Morning Istanbul: Half-Day Tour with Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Enjoy this 4 hours tour with visits to the highlights of the old city. Firstly visit the magnificent Byzantine church of St Sophia. After here continue to Hippodrome, the former centre of sporting and political activities in Constantinople and the Blue Mosque, amazing blue tiles from 16th century. Final visit of the morning is to the Grand Bazaar.

4.3 (103 reviews)

From $141 USD

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Attractions

4.2 (194 reviews)
Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Istanbul

Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Istanbul

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover magnificent sightseeing of the city of Istanbul which is considered as the bridge between Europe and Asia. Unique opportunity for everyone to explore deeply all major touristic highlights within a short time with a special audio-guide equipment.

From $65 USD

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4.7 (221 reviews)
Istanbul City Tour and Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Lunch

Istanbul City Tour and Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Lunch

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover Istanbul's rich Culture and history with our experienced guides. Skip the Museum Ticket Queues with your guide. Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Brief Handicraft Presentation next to Grand Bazaar (Optional, guest may opt to explore the bazaar on their own), Spice Bazaar and take a Cruise on The Bosphorus, the strait that separates Europe and Asia. Lunch included.

From $113 USD

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4.8 (30 reviews)
Istanbul Sightseeing Walking Tour

Istanbul Sightseeing Walking Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Ideal for travelers who want to experience Istanbul for the first time, this 3-hour city tour will take you on a journey through the landmarks and legends that have shaped modern Istanbul. You’ll stroll through Sultanahmet Square and Ancient Roman Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia and amble past Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Basilica Cistern, hidden areas and bustling streets of Grand Bazaar and Spice Market. Your guide will point out places to get the best local snacks and coffee, as well as show you the main points of interest along the way. Learn about art, food and architecture while discovering the city’s top rated sites from outside. Choose from morning or afternoon departure. • Spot Istanbul’s landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern • Learn about the city’s history from your guide • Wander the city’s secret backstreets • Stop by Spice Market

From $59 USD

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4.2 (273 reviews)
Istanbul Shore Excursion: Istanbul in One Day Sightseeing Tour

Istanbul Shore Excursion: Istanbul in One Day Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This sightseeing tour of Istanbul provides the perfect introduction to the fabled city that spans Asia and Europe. On this shore excursion you will see how old meets new when you visit Istanbul's four "must-see" historic sites.

From $155 USD

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3.7 (208 reviews)
Small-Group Bosphorus Cruise and Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar

Small-Group Bosphorus Cruise and Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore the aromatic maze of stalls that make up Istanbul’s Spice Bazaar, and then hop aboard a sightseeing boat for a jaunt along the famous Bosphorus Strait! After traveling to the bazaar by coach and learning about the city from an onboard guide, enjoy some free time to explore and browse stalls selling fresh mint, cardamom, cinnamon and more. Follow up the market visit with a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise and see a collection of sights including the decadent Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Hisarı Fortress.

From $90 USD

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4.0 (3 reviews)
Istanbul Old City Sightseeing Tour (Entry Fees Inculuding)

Istanbul Old City Sightseeing Tour (Entry Fees Inculuding)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Immerse in Istanbul's UNESCO-listed Old City and visit the highlights of the ancient city of Constantinople on this 9-hour, small-group sightseeing tour led by an art historian. Marvel at the dome of the Hagia Sophia (from Out Side Not Entry)), descend into the bowels of the Basilica Cistern (from Out Side Not Entry), and explore the Roman-era Hippodrome. After a 3-course Turkish lunch, admire the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, and brave the chaos of the Grand Bazaar.

From $148 USD

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4.4 (20 reviews)
Full-Day Istanbul Tour with Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise

Full-Day Istanbul Tour with Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the two faces of Istanbul, the world’s only city situated on two continents, on this enjoyable full-day city tour. Traveling in a Mercedes minivan, head for the Spice Bazaar to peruse its colorful stalls, and tour the sumptuous Dolmabahçe Palace, the last residence of the Ottoman emperors. Drift by Istanbul’s sight-crammed European and Asian shores on a Bosphorus cruise, and asborb panoramic views of both sides of the city from the Bosphorus Bridge. With a maximum of 12 people, get personalized attention from your guide on this small-group tour.

From $129 USD

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5.0 (79 reviews)
Skip Lines with Local Tour Guide Taha

Skip Lines with Local Tour Guide Taha

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the Secrets of Istanbul's Old City! Join our exclusive private tours and dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of Istanbul’s Old City. From the majestic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar, we offer a personalized experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Why Choose Us? Expert local guide with insider knowledge Tailored tours to match your interests Flexible scheduling for your convenience Unforgettable stories and hidden gems Book your adventure today and step back in time with us! Please join me to see landmarks and secret places of Turkiye. Let's explore the whole country together, with its history dating back over ten thousand years. Not only Istanbul to all around Turkiye. Istanbul, is the largest city in Turkey, straddling the Bosporus Strait, the boundary between Europe and Asia. It is considered the country's economic, cultural and historic capital. The city was founded as Byzantium in the 7th century BCE by Greek settlers from Megara.

From $76 USD

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4.4 (220 reviews)
Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour

Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Take a hassle-free tour of Istanbul's most famous attractions with your own private guide to lead the way. You'll enjoy personalized attention on your private tour of magical Istanbul and its signature sights: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.

From $225 USD

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4.8 (15 reviews)
Istanbul Bosphorus and Two Continents Tour

Istanbul Bosphorus and Two Continents Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the wonders of the Asian and European sides of Istanbul by land and sea on this full-day tour. In the morning, sail under the Bosphorus Bridge passing Ortaköy Mosque and Dolmabahçe Palace. After lunch (meal included), hop in a car to further explore both sides of the city. Discover quaint neighborhoods and learn the history of this fascinating city. Finally, cross the intercontinental Bosphorus Bridge to the Asian side where you'll see some off-the-beaten-path parts of town and even get a perfect panoramic view of the city.

From $119 USD

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