You'll be drawn to Sultanahmet's Ottoman treasures with the
opulent Harem at Topkapi Palace and the hallowed Hagia Sophia on your
first visit to Istanbul. But there's plenty more in Turkey's cultural
capital: gaze at centuries-old mosaics at Chora Church (Kariye Camii) or whizz
right to the present at Istanbul's finest bars, clubs and stylish restaurants
in Beyoglu.
Background
A modern metropolis living alongside its Ottoman history, Istanbul easily embraces
two identities and continents. In the European side, discover
Sultanahmet's ancient treasures like the serene Blue Mosque or
the Archaeological Museum's centuries of history. Cross the Golden
Horn inlet via the Galata Bridge into modern Istanbul, with busy
Beyoglu centred on shopping hub Istiklal Caddesi. A sailing trip up the
Bosphorus will take you onto the Asian side, alongside peaceful waterfront
villages.
First-time visit
Arrive early at huge Topkapi Palace to see Ottoman opulence of the Harem, home
of the Sultan's many concubines. From the top of the Galata Tower,
gaze at the boat-filled Bosphorus and red rooftops below. Try your haggling
skills at the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar for that perfect carpet or painted
ceramics. Or shop along busy Istiklal Caddesi in Beyoglu for funky
fashions and music. For a relaxing trip, sit on the deck during a Bosphorus boat
trip and spot fishermen and graceful waterfront houses.
Return visit
In the western district Fener, gaze at immaculate Byzantine mosaics in
Chora Church and visit the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, centre of
Greek Orthodoxy. From the sacred Eyup Mosque, a steep walk up through the
centuries-old cemetery rewards you with breathtaking views of the Golden
Horn. The verdant Yildiz Park was once strolling grounds from the nearby
Ottoman palace, and is still perfect for a walk and cup of tea by the duck pond.
Visit the photography exhibition at Istanbul Modern, the city's best
contemporary art collection.
This modern airport is situated in Yesilkoy, on the European side of Istanbul, 28 km
from the city centre. The Metro will whisk you into the city centre within 30
minutes.
Passenger walkways, some moving, link the two terminals (allow around 10 minutes for
transfer).
Airport parking
There is plenty of short and long-stay parking at the 7000-vehicle multi-level car
park. There are pedestrian walkways to the international and domestic terminals.
Parking costs TL9.50 for 1-3 hours, TL109 for seven days. A 24-hour valet service is
available in front of the terminal building.
Please note that you won't be able to make changes to your hotel or car booking. If you want to change your booking you will have to cancel your current booking and make a new booking. This can be done on ba.com.
We cannot guarantee that the same hotel room or car rental option will still be available if you have to cancel and make a new booking.
