Istanbul Travel Guide
Declan Kennedy
| 19-11-2025
· Travel team
Are we ready to explore a city that lets us step from Europe to Asia in just minutes?
Today, we’re diving into a fully updated Istanbul Travel Guide, complete with practical details—ticket prices, opening hours, transportation fees, dining budgets, and helpful tips—so we can plan our journey confidently and comfortably.
Istanbul Overview
Istanbul is a unique city where history and daily life blend naturally. With more than 5,300 square kilometers, 39 districts, and a location across two continents, it offers countless views, neighborhoods, and cultural surprises.
When we walk through the old town, ride a ferry across the Bosphorus, or explore lively streets, we immediately feel why travelers around the world love this city.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal seasons are April–June and September–November, with temperatures around 15–25°C, comfortable for walking and photography.
These months also have fewer crowds compared to peak summer. Winter is cooler and rainy, but still pleasant for cultural sightseeing.
Top Attractions with Ticket Prices & Opening Hours
Here are the updated practical details so we can plan smoothly.
1. Hagia Sophia
- Ticket: About $35 (for gallery entry)
- Opening hours: 9:00–19:00
- Tips: Go early morning to avoid long lines.
2. Blue Mosque
- Ticket: Free
- Opening hours: 8:30–17:00 (closed during prayer times)
- Tips: Shoulders and knees covered.
3. Topkapi Palace
- Ticket: Around $42, Harem add-on $15
- Opening hours: 10:00–17:00
- Tips: Allow at least 2–3 hours.
4. Basilica Cistern
- Ticket: About $25
- Opening hours: 9:00–22:00
- Tips: Cool underground temperature—great break from heat.
5. Galata Tower
- Ticket: Around $30
- Opening hours: 8:30–23:00
- Tips: Sunset timing is beautiful, but very crowded.
6. Dolmabahçe Palace
- Ticket: Main section $35, full ticket $45
- Opening hours: 9:00–16:00
- Tips: Closed on Mondays.
7. Bosphorus Ferry Ride
- Public ferry ticket: Around $1.5–$2
- Tourist cruise: $12–$20
- Tips: Choose the public ferry for best value and real local experience.
Transportation & Fees
Getting around Istanbul is easy once we get an Istanbulkart.
- Card cost: approx. $2
- Top-up: flexible based on travel needs
Public transport fees (with Istanbulkart):
- Tram: around $0.6–$0.8
- Metro: around $0.6–$0.9
- Public ferry: around $1.5–$2
- Bus: around $0.6–$0.8
Taxis are available, but traffic can be heavy, especially near Sultanahmet and Taksim.
Average taxi fare within central areas: $5–$12 depending on distance.
Accommodation Guide & Price Range
Staying in Istanbul can be comfortable regardless of budget.
Best areas to stay:
- Sultanahmet — walking distance to main attractions
- Taksim / Beyoğlu — lively streets, lots to explore
- Kadıköy — relaxed local vibe on the Asian side
Price reference (per night):
- Budget hotels: $35–$60
- Mid-range hotels: $70–$120
- Higher-end stays: $150–$250+
If we want convenience, Sultanahmet is best. If we prefer modern streets and cafés, Taksim and Kadıköy are great choices.
Dining Options & Price Guide
Istanbul has countless food choices, from street snacks to seaside restaurants.
Daily reference cost:
- Street snacks: $1–$3(e.g., simit, roasted chestnuts, corn)
- Casual local meals: $8–$15(grilled fish, pide, kebab-style dishes, soups)
- Restaurant with sea view: $15–$25
Local drinks such as tea or fruit-based beverages usually cost $1–$2, and are perfect for a break during our walk.
Suggested Itinerary (1–3 Days)
Day 1 — Old Town Essentials
- Hagia Sophia
- Blue Mosque
- Hippodrome
- Basilica Cistern
- Sunset ferry ride to Üsküdar
Day 2 — Palaces & Views
- Topkapi Palace
- Gülhane Park
- Galata Bridge
- Galata Tower
- Evening walk around Karaköy
Day 3 — Bosphorus & Local Life
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Bosphorus cruise
- Kadıköy market streets
- Moda seaside walk
Practical Travel Tips
- Start early to avoid crowds at major attractions.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as many streets are uphill or cobblestone.
- Carry small cash for markets and snacks.
- Use ferries—they give great views at low cost.
- Be patient with traffic, especially near tourist zones.
- Stay hydrated during long walking days.
Time to Explore!
Lykkers, now that we have all the practical details—ticket prices, opening hours, transport tips, and dining suggestions—we’re fully ready to explore Istanbul with ease and excitement. This city invites us to wander through history, enjoy breathtaking sea views, and soak up the energy of bustling markets.
As we stroll along the ancient streets of Sultanahmet or glide across the Bosphorus on a ferry, we’ll truly feel why Istanbul leaves an unforgettable mark on everyone who visits.
10 BEST Things To Do In Istanbul | Istanbul Travel Guide
Video by Noah Travel Guides