Istanbul

About Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul, a vibrant and mesmerizing city where East meets West. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning architecture, Istanbul offers an unforgettable journey through time. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the iconic Blue Mosque, with its magnificent domes and intricate tilework. Explore the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, and witness the grandeur of the Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans.

Stroll through the bustling streets of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Lose yourself in its labyrinthine alleys, filled with vibrant textiles, exquisite jewelry, aromatic spices, and unique handicrafts. Indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine at the city’s countless restaurants and street food stalls, savoring delicious kebabs, baklava, and Turkish tea.

Take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, and admire the stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline, dotted with historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Beyoglu and Karakoy, known for their trendy cafes, art galleries, and lively nightlife. Visit the famous Istanbul Modern Art Museum to discover contemporary Turkish art or immerse yourself in history at the grandeur of the Basilica Cistern, an underground wonder from the Byzantine era.

Uncover the hidden gems of Istanbul, such as the charming neighborhood of Sultanahmet, the historic district of Kadikoy, or the picturesque Princes’ Islands just a short ferry ride away. Marvel at the beauty of the colorful mosaic-filled Chora Church or enjoy a traditional Turkish bath experience in one of the city’s historic hamams.

With its rich heritage, breathtaking landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere, Istanbul captivates the hearts of all who visit. Let the city’s timeless beauty and warm hospitality leave a lasting impression as you create unforgettable memories in this remarkable destination. Istanbul invites you to embrace its magic and embark on a journey of discovery.

Things to Know


Best Time to Visit:
All Year Round

Official Name:
Istanbul

Region – Continent:
Marmara – Europe & Asia

Area:
5,343 km²

Population:
16,000,000

Annual Average Weather

  • Temperature
  • Sun
  • Rain
  • Humidity
  • Wind

December
8 °C
(47 °F)
5 hours per day
107 mm per month
78

% average

11 mph average
January
6 °C
(43 °F)
5 hours per day
88 mm per month
79

% average

11 mph average
February
6 °C
(44 °F)
6 hours per day
75 mm per month
77

% average

12 mph average

March
9 °C
(48 °F)
7 hours per day
75 mm per month
75

% average

11 mph average
April
12 °C
(53 °F)
9 hours per day
50 mm per month
75

% average

9 mph average
May
17 °C
(62 °F)
11 hours per day
38 mm per month
73

% average

9 mph average

June
22 °C
(71 °F)
12 hours per day
35 mm per month
70

% average

9 mph average
July
24 °C
(76 °F)
12 hours per day
26 mm per month
69

% average

12 mph average
August
24 °C
(76 °F)
11 hours per day
24 mm per month
69

% average

12 mph average

September
21 °C
(70 °F)
9 hours per day
52 mm per month
70

% average

11 mph average
October
16 °C
(62 °F)
7 hours per day
80 mm per month
75

% average

11 mph average
November
12 °C
(54 °F)
6 hours per day
78 mm per month
77

% average

11 mph average

Istanbul Tours

    • Multi-Day Tour
    Visit Ephesus with our Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Cruise Port

    Ephesus Luxury Private Tour from Istanbul

    Izmir Airport
    • Cultural
    • Historical
    From: $549
    • 3 Days
    Explore
    • Multi-Day Tour
    Woman in red dress in Pamukkale Travertines

    Istanbul, Ephesus and Pamukkale Luxury Tour

    Istanbul Airports
    • Cultural
    • Historical
    From: $1,429
    • 7 Days
    Explore
    • Multi-Day Tour

    Istanbul and Ephesus Luxury Private Tour

    Istanbul Airports
    • Cultural
    • Historical
    From: $1,239
    • 6 Days
    Explore
    • Event
    Visit Maiden Tower on Bosphorus with our Istanbul Private Yacht Tour

    Istanbul Private Yacht Tour

    Istanbul Hotels
    • Blue Cruise
    • Romance
    From: $299
    • 2 Hours
    Explore
    • Day Tour
    You will visit King's way during your Daily Ephesus Tour from Istanbul - Private Guided

    Ephesus Day Tour from Istanbul – Private Guided

    Istanbul Airports & Istanbul Hotels
    • Archeological
    • Biblical
    From: $349
    • 14 Hours
    Explore
    • Multi-Day Tour
    Take Hot Air Balloon Ride with our Two Days Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

    Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul – Private Guided

    Istanbul Airports & Istanbul Hotels
    • Historical
    • Cultural
    From: $489
    • 2 Days
    Explore
    • Day Tour
    Visit Green Mosque in our Bursa Tour from Istanbul

    Daily Bursa Private Tour from Istanbul

    Istanbul Hotels
    • Historical
    • Cultural
    From: $179
    • 12 Hours
    Explore
    • Day Tour
    Buyukada at our Istanbul Princess Island Tour

    Istanbul Princess Island Private Tour

    Istanbul Hotels
    • City
    • Cultural
    From: $149
    • 8 Hours
    Explore
    • Day Tour
    aerial view of two continets of Istanbul

    Istanbul Two Continents Tour – Private Guided

    Istanbul Hotels
    • Cultural
    • Historical
    From: $147
    • 8 Hours
    Explore
    • Day Tour
    blue mosque

    Istanbul Private Guided Tour

    Istanbul Hotels
    • Cultural
    • Historical
    From: $129
    • 8 Hours
    Explore
    • Day Tour
    fresks in hagia sophia

    Istanbul Half-Day Private Tour

    Istanbul Hotels
    • Historical
    • City
    From: $89
    • 4 Hours
    Explore
    • Day Tour
    Morning view of Topkapi Palace at our Ottomon Relics Tour

    Ottoman Relics of Istanbul – Private Half-Day Tour

    Istanbul Hotels
    • Historical
    • City
    From: $119
    • 4 Hours
    Explore

Istanbul Travel Tips & Stories

How to go from Istanbul to Ephesus?

March 27, 2024

Ephesus, located between Selcuk and Kusadasi in modern Turkey, was once a thriving metropolis in the Roman Empire and is now a popular tourist destination for its well-preserved ruins and rich history. Here’s a guide on how to get Ephesus from Istanbul and make the most of your day trip.