Why go to Istanbul? The 10 good reasons to go Istanbul
The Topkapı Palace
Built on the tip of the seraglio, it was the official residence of the sultans.
The Great Bazaar
The largest covered market in the world, famous for its jewelry, ceramics, carpets and leather.
The pedestrian avenue Istiklal
Hundreds of thousands of people pass through it every day.
The Blue Mosque
Symbol of Istanbul, we never tire of its beauty, sublimated at nightfall.
A cruise on the Bosphorus
A magical moment, offering a superb panoramic view of the city and its monuments.
The Galata Tower
You can admire a 360 degree panorama of the city and its fascinating immensity.
Turkish cuisine
Very varied, with many specialities, and very far from being reduced to kebabs.
The Basilica of Saint Sophia
We are impressed by its dome and its many mosaics dating from the Byzantine era.
Stroll in the Kadiköy district
It is pleasant to stroll through the small streets of this lively neighborhood.
The hammams
They offer you a moment of relaxation and well-being, in the hustle and bustle of the city.
What to visit Istanbul?
Interview: My Istanbul
With Mathilde Coloane, author of the guide
Born in the Hautes-Alpes, Mathilde Coloane went to Istanbul for the first time at the age of 19. She fell in love with this extraordinary city. On her return, she decided to study Turkish language and culture at the Inalco. She then left to settle in this city that made her dream so much and it's been more than 7 years that she never gets tired of admiring the Bosphorus.
See the video of the interviewGood to know to visit Istanbul
Timetable
In general, most stores in Istanbul open in the late morning and close later than in France, especially in summer. Except for state-related institutions, most establishments are open on weekends. During the month of Ramadan, opening hours are adjusted, and some restaurants may be closed during the day.
Budget & Tips
For tourists, there are two cards that allow to visit museums. The MuseumPass Istanbul (360 TL), which is a nominative card for all national museums in Istanbul (except the Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahçe Palace and Leander Tower), is valid for five days from its first use. This card gives you access to discounts in souvenir stores and museum cafes. The MuseumPass Turkey (600 TL) allows you to visit all national monuments and museums in Turkey. It is valid for 15 days from its first use. You can buy these cards at any national museum, but avoid Topkapı because of the crowds. It is better to take them from the Mosaic Museum, for example, where there are few people. Thanks to these cards, you won't have to queue at the ticket office. Note: museums are free for children under 8 years old.
