Flights from Hanoi (HAN) to Istanbul (IST)

About Istanbul

Discover Istanbul

Why visit Istanbul?
Istanbul is where Europe and Asia meet, a city of grand architecture, waterfront neighbourhoods, and lively streets that stay active long into the evening. You will find an urban atmosphere that feels historic and contemporary at the same time.

What to expect
Expect a skyline of domes and towers above hillside districts, with ferries crossing the Bosphorus and trams running through older quarters. Bustling bazaars, café-lined streets, and scenic viewpoints over the strait shape how you experience the city.

Plan your trip
Istanbul works well as both a short city break and a longer stay, with easy day trips along the Bosphorus and into surrounding coastal areas. It is also a major gateway for exploring wider Turkey, from Mediterranean shores to inland cultural and natural landmarks.

Top sights in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia

Admire the vast interior, layered history, and striking dome of one of Istanbul's most recognisable landmarks.

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)

See the graceful courtyards and elegant minarets of this historic mosque overlooking the old city.

Topkapi Palace

Explore ornate courtyards, intricate chambers, and terraces with sweeping views over the Bosphorus and Golden Horn.

Grand Bazaar

Wander through a maze of covered lanes filled with textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and traditional handicrafts.

Spice Bazaar

Experience colourful stalls selling spices, dried fruits, sweets, and aromatic teas in a historic marketplace.

Bosphorus cruise

Take a scenic cruise between two continents, passing waterfront mansions, fortresses, and hillside neighbourhoods.

Galata Tower

Climb to the viewing deck for panoramic views over Istanbul's historic peninsula and the Golden Horn.

Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square

Stroll a lively pedestrian boulevard lined with shops, cafés, and historic passages in the heart of modern Istanbul.

Experience Istanbul's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Istanbul's tram, metro, and bus networks link most key districts, making it straightforward to move between the old city, Beyoglu, and the waterfront. Ferries across the Bosphorus give you a scenic way to cross continents, while short walks or taxis are useful for the final stretch.

Local life & culture
Daily life spills onto the streets in Istanbul, from café terraces to neighbourhood parks and busy waterfront promenades. Historic quarters offer narrow lanes and traditional architecture, while modern districts highlight galleries, contemporary venues, and a growing creative scene.

Where to unwind
You can unwind along the Bosphorus, in leafy city parks, or at viewpoints that look out over the water and skyline. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly pleasant times to sit by the shore, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch ferries glide past.

A taste of Istanbul

Street food & local specialties
Street stalls, casual eateries, and waterfront kiosks serve grilled favourites, savoury pastries, and sweet treats across the city. Neighbourhoods around Sultanahmet, Eminönü, and Karaköy are especially good for sampling quick bites as you explore.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern restaurants and cafés cluster around Beyoglu, Karaköy, and the districts north of the Golden Horn, offering both local flavours and international menus. Portions are often ideal for sharing, so you can try several dishes with friends or family in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for dining rooms with terraces overlooking the Bosphorus or the historic peninsula. Rooftop venues and waterside restaurants combine well-prepared cuisine with views of the skyline, bridges, and passing ships, especially around sunset.

Retail therapy in Istanbul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres across the city bring together international brands, local designers, and plenty of dining options under one roof. These modern complexes double as lifestyle hubs, with cinemas, play areas, and cafés where you can pause between stores.

Markets & local crafts
Away from the malls, you will find traditional markets and small streets dedicated to textiles, ceramics, and contemporary design pieces. Areas around the Grand Bazaar, the Spice Bazaar, and districts like Beyoglu and Kadiköy are ideal for discovering local labels and craft studios.

Evening retail scene
In the evening, busy streets such as Istiklal Avenue and surrounding lanes stay lively with illuminated shopfronts and late-opening boutiques. Smaller markets and waterside promenades also remain active, and public transport makes it easy to reach these areas and return to your hotel afterwards.

Best time to visit Istanbul

Spring (Ilkbahar), March to May, brings mild days around 12–20°C (54–68°F) and blossoming parks, making it a shoulder season with pleasant sightseeing conditions and comfortable walks through the city.

Summer (Yaz), June to August, is warm to hot at about 24–30°C (75–86°F), with long daylight hours and lively evenings along the Bosphorus, marking the city’s peak season for outdoor dining and cruises.

Autumn and winter (Sonbahar and Kış), September to February, range from about 8–18°C (46–64°F), sometimes cooler, and form a low season that offers quieter attractions, atmospheric views over the water, and a cosy feel in cafés and indoor markets.

Frequently Asked Questions