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What to do in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city in Turkey that is chockfull of history and rich cultures. Filled with stunning architecture, bustling bazaars, and Turkish baths, Istanbul is a feast for the senses. Many have even called the city as “the second Rome,” so you don’t want to miss out roaming in Istanbul.

Start your Istanbul itinerary and go back in time with the city’s ancient monuments. See influences of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods at the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Sultanahmet Mosque. If you think the outside is beautiful, wait until you see the inside.

Check out contemporary Turkish art at the Istanbul Modern. Walk through the popular streets of Istiklal Avenue. Marvel at the city’s skyscrapers around Levent and Maslak. And for more buildings that are works of art, stop by the neighbourhoods of Kurtulus, Nisantasi, and Osmanbey.

With all the walking you’ve done, a visit to a hamam (Turkish bath) is a great way to pamper yourself. There’s at least one historical hamam in every neighbourhood of Istanbul, so you shouldn’t miss out on this experience. In fact, most travellers take a dip more than once during their stay in the city.

Another must-experience in Instanbul is bargaining at the Grand Bazaar or the Egyptian Bazaar. Remember to bring a good Turkish-English phrasebook with you so you can easily talk to the locals.

End your trip in Istanbul by seeing it bursting with colourful tulips at Sultanahmet Park, Gulhane Park, Emirgan Park, or Camlica Hill from late March to early May.

Have the best trip in this stunning city and be inspired with this list of 50 things to do in Istanbul.

When to visit Istanbul

The best time to visit Istanbul is from September to November when you can enjoy the city with fewer crowds, the best weather, and cheaper rates. From our website, the cheapest time to fly to Istanbul is the month of July.

Before you fly to Turkey and visit Istanbul, you need to secure an e-visa to enter the country and travel for 90 days within a 180-day period. Make sure your Australian passport is also valid for at least six months from your planned return date to Australia. Check out Smartraveller for more info.

Travelling to and around Istanbul

You’ll be landing at Istanbul Ataturk Airport, and from there you can get into the city by taxi, bus, and subway. Wander Istanbul easily with your options of the metro, tram, train, boat, bus, taxi, and shared taxi.

Experience a different world with an amazing trip to Istanbul! Get your suitcase and passport now and book your Istanbul flights with Skiddoo today.