Flights from Hangzhou (HGH) to Istanbul (IST)

About Istanbul

Discover Istanbul

Why visit Istanbul?
Istanbul is a city where continents meet and centuries blend, with grand landmarks, lively neighbourhoods, and a constantly changing skyline. You will find waterfront promenades, historic streets, and modern hubs that create a dynamic yet welcoming atmosphere.

What to expect
The city stretches along the Bosphorus, with ferries crossing between its European and Asian sides and trams and metros linking key districts. Historic quarters sit close to modern avenues, and you can move from quiet backstreets to busy squares and waterfront outlooks in minutes.

Plan your trip
Istanbul works well for a short city break or a longer stay that explores nearby coasts and inland regions. It is also a major air hub for journeys across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, so you can easily combine your visit with further adventures in the wider region.

Top sights in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia

Admire the vast domed interior, intricate details, and impressive scale of this iconic monument at the heart of Istanbul.

Blue Mosque

Take in the elegant courtyard, striking minarets, and distinctive blue tiles that define one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

Topkapi Palace

Walk through ornate courtyards and pavilions, and enjoy sweeping views over the Bosphorus from this former imperial residence.

Grand Bazaar

Explore a maze of covered lanes lined with stalls offering textiles, jewellery, ceramics, and other traditional wares.

Bosphorus cruise

See Istanbul’s skyline, waterfront mansions, and hilltop viewpoints from the water on a scenic Bosphorus sailing.

Galata Tower

Head up this historic tower to enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul’s old city, bridges, and bustling waterfront districts.

Istiklal Avenue

Stroll this pedestrian street to experience street life, historic buildings, and lively cafés in the heart of modern Istanbul.

Spice Bazaar

Wander through fragrant stalls filled with colourful spices, teas, and local delicacies near the Golden Horn.

Experience Istanbul’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Istanbul’s tram and metro lines are the fastest way to cross the city’s busy core, with key stops near major sights. Ferries across the Bosphorus offer a scenic way to travel between the European and Asian sides, while short taxi or rideshare trips help you cover the final stretch.

Local life & culture
Each district in Istanbul has its own character, from historic lanes around Sultanahmet to creative hubs near Karaköy and Kadıköy. Street life is vibrant, with people gathering in squares, along the waterfront, and in compact neighbourhood cafés throughout the day and into the evening.

Where to unwind
You can find quieter corners in hilltop parks, leafy residential streets, and seaside promenades along both shores of the Bosphorus. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for relaxed walks, when the light softens and the city’s views over the water are especially atmospheric.

A taste of Istanbul

Street food & local specialties
In Istanbul, simple street-side stalls and small eateries serve grilled meats, savoury pastries, and freshly baked breads. Areas around Eminönü, Karaköy, and Kadıköy are popular for quick bites as you explore the city’s waterfront and backstreets.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Across districts like Beyoğlu and Nişantaşı, you will find relaxed restaurants and cafés offering a mix of local and international flavours. Many menus feature small plates and sharing options, so you can sample a variety of dishes over an unhurried meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable views, look for rooftop venues near the Bosphorus or on the hills around Galata and Sultanahmet. Dining with a panorama of bridges, domes, and city lights adds a special backdrop to an evening out in Istanbul.

Retail therapy in Istanbul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres across Istanbul bring together international labels, local brands, cinemas, and dining in one place. They are popular spots to meet friends, browse new collections, and take a break between sightseeing stops.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and side streets around the Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and Kadıköy showcase textiles, ceramics, and contemporary local designers. These neighbourhoods are ideal for picking up distinctive pieces and seeing everyday commercial life up close.

Evening retail scene
After dark, central areas such as Istiklal Avenue and parts of the old city stay lively with illuminated shopfronts and late-opening stores. Well-connected public transport makes it easy to reach these districts in the evening and return to your accommodation comfortably.

Best time to visit Istanbul

Spring season (Bahar)
From April to June, Istanbul enjoys mild days around 15–22°C (59–72°F) with fresh evenings and blooming parks. This shoulder season brings comfortable sightseeing weather, pleasant Bosphorus breezes, and a lively outdoor café atmosphere across the city.

Summer season (Yaz)
July to September is warm, with typical temperatures of 24–30°C (75–86°F) and long, sunny days. This peak season is ideal for evening walks along the waterfront, open-air events, and boat trips, with extended daylight giving you more time to explore.

Autumn and winter season (Sonbahar and Kış)
From October to March, temperatures range roughly between 7–15°C (45–59°F), with cooler, crisper days and occasional rain. This low season is well suited to museum visits, cosy cafés, and quieter streets, giving you space to enjoy Istanbul’s historic and modern districts at a gentler pace.

Frequently Asked Questions