Istanbul Holidays

Sitting where continents meet, Istanbul is a mesmerising sum of its historic parts, showcasing layers of time alongside modern-day Turkish city life.

In Turkey’s largest city, it’s very much the case of two’s company; it sits across two continents, links two seas and was once at the epicentre of two vast empires, Ottoman and Byzantine. It was the gateway to the Silk Road, a network of trade routes that branched out across Asia, and it very much wears its history on its sleeve. The city is packed with heritage sites, including mosques, bazaars, palaces, churches and city walls.

Of course, you won’t want to miss the tick-list sights of the Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultanahmet Mosque), the Bosphorus Strait-side Dolmabahce Palace and the Topkapi Palace, but make sure you set aside time to get lost in the Grand Bazaar, revel in the scents of the Spice Bazaar and slowing down over a cup of foamy cup of Turkish coffee boiled over hot coals in a copper cup; some of the best coffee shops can be found near the medieval Galata tower. You can also seek out some of the best street food in Istanbul; kebabs, Simit and Balik-Ekmek are just a handful of dishes that we recommend should giving a go.

Our Personal Travel Experts are here to help you create your perfect Istanbul holiday, filling you in on the hot spots and hidden gems and picking out the best addresses to stay at.

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Istanbul Hotels

Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Istanbul

Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus

Glossy interiors and sleek finishes create a luxurious cocoon away from the buzz of Istanbul.

DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel, Istanbul-Sirkeci

Contemporary interiors and luxury touches create a chic hideaway in the centre of Old Istanbul.

The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul

A gleaming tower of glass and steel overlooking the Bosphorus, this five-star hideaway epitomises...

The Marmara Taksim

Sweeping views meet chic modernity at this hillside high-rise at the epicentre of the vibrant Tak...

CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel

Ottoman-style luxury gets a 21st-century update at this grand yet welcoming hotel with Bosphorus...

Occidental Taksim

This recently built hotel has an inviting sense of place as well as welcome facilities for travel...

The Marmara Pera

This welcoming four-star bolthole at the southern end of Taksim offers gourmet dining and sophist...

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Imperial Tour

Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich history and culture as you explore some of the city’s highlights. The adventure begins at Hagia Sophia Mosque, an architectural masterpiece dating back to the 6th century. A sight to behold, you’ll get to marvel at its skyline-piercing dome and admire its mosaic-adorned interior. After that, you’ll venture to the Blue Mosque, the only imperial mosque with six minarets. Wander through the grand courtyard and glimpse inside at the mesmerising blue tiles from which it takes its name. From here you’ll head to the Hippodrome, the stadium of ancient Byzantine with its impressive architectural structures before exploring the bustling Grand Bazaar. Meander through maze-like streets where everything from colourful carpets to local ceramics fight for your attention.

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Bosphorus Cruise

Embark on an exciting offshore adventure as you sail the sights of the stunning Bosphorus, the strait that runs through Istanbul, separating Europe and Asia. The tour will begin with a brief stop at the aroma-packed Spice Bazaar before cruising the Golden Horn. Float along the glittering waters and soak up the strait’s shore-lined sights. Look out for majestic mosques, what was once the world’s longest bridge and Rumeli Hisari, an impressive fortress built by Mehmet the Conqueror as he prepared to capture Istanbul. Other highlights for your camera roll include 19th century Ottoman mansions, magnificent Sultan palaces and beautiful hunting lodges.

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Grand Bazaar Rooftop Tour

Experience the Grand Bazaar from a unique birds-eye view on this extraordinary James Bond-esque tour. Guided by a local expert, you’ll hop from rooftop to rooftop as you soak up stunning skyline vistas and feel the pulsating energy from the lively alleys below. When you’re not busy taking holiday snaps, you’ll learn of the rich history of one of the world’s most iconic bazaars. Once your feet are firmly back on the ground, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the bazaar’s bustling backstreets, where Ottoman traditions and the modern day intertwine. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, getting lost in winding lanes as souvenir-filled shops lure you in.

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Traditional Hammam Experience

If you fancy embracing the local culture whilst indulging in a few hours’ relaxation, this authentic hammam experience is for you. Combining age-old rituals with rejuvenation, the Turkish tradition makes a great stop off between sights. With separate spaces for women and men, comfort and privacy are guaranteed throughout. Creating a tranquil atmosphere, the gentle flow of water is said to be at the heart of this indulgent experience. Once you’re relaxed and ready for some TLC, you’ll begin your journey with a skin-cleansing body wash before undergoing a muscle-soothing massage. Lie back in steamy surroundings and when you’ve completed the experience, leave the hammam feeling fully refreshed and rejuvenated.

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Anthony Bourdain Street Food Tour

A rich tapestry of flavours, Istanbul’s culinary scene is bursting with mouth-watering delights – and you can experience it for yourself on this gastronomic adventure through Istanbul. Led by a local, you’ll follow in the footsteps of chef, writer and explorer, Anthony Bourdain, on a private indulgent food tour. Hop from traditional restaurants and up-and-coming eateries as you sample authentic delicacies, from sweet baklavas to flavour-filled dürüms. Not forgetting Turkey’s traditional tipple, raki.

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Turkish Cooking Class

Whether you’re looking for an exciting introduction to Turkey’s culinary scene or just fancy a fun-filled afternoon, this hands-on cooking class makes a sumptuous addition to your itinerary. And with it being just half a day, it’s easy to squeeze it in. Grab an apron, roll up your sleeves and get ready to show off your skills as you prepare three authentic Turkish recipes. After you’ve done the hard work, it’s time to indulge. Sit back and relax as you savour traditional dishes bursting with spicy aromas and fiery flavours, all whilst sipping on a crisp glass of local wine.

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The Sema Ceremony

Embark on a spiritual journey as you experience the Sema ceremony, a mesmerising ritual of the whirling dervishes said to achieve perfection through mind and love. Beginning at 7pm every evening, this extraordinary tour offers a glimpse into Turkey’s rich and fascinating culture. Have your camera ready as the music and moves of the ceremony leave you in awe. After that you’ll get to browse the exhibition, where you can delve even deeper into the dervish world. Spot objects used in the ceremony, admire intricate dervish statues and look out for the video shows offering a unique perspective of the ceremony.

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Get to know Istanbul and those all-important practicalities when planning your perfect holiday.

TIME DIFFERENCE

GMT +3 hours (BST +2 hours)

CURRENCY

Turkish Lira

FLYING TIME TO DESTINATION

4 hours

LANGUAGE

Turkish

Where is Istanbul
The city is bisected by the Bosphorus Strait which links the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea and marks the Asia-Europe continental boundary; the European side of the city bisected by its inlet, the Golden Horn.

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