Weekend Guide · Turkey
Weekend in Istanbul
Istanbul — Turkey's largest city, bridging Europe and Asia, famous for historic landmarks, bazaars, and vibrant culture..
Arrive & Explore Istanbul
Hagia Sophia
Iconic Byzantine cathedral-turned-mosque, now a museum showcasing history and architecture
Blue Mosque
Historic mosque known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets
Grand Bazaar
One of the largest covered markets in the world, offering everything from spices to jewelry
Hidden Gems & Local Flavours
Topkapi Palace
Historic palace of Ottoman sultans, featuring treasures and beautiful courtyards
Bosphorus Cruise
A boat ride along the strait dividing Europe and Asia, passing Ottoman palaces, fortresses, and waterfront mansions — one of the best ways to see the city
Basilica Cistern
A cavernous 6th-century underground water reservoir with hundreds of columns, moody lighting, and two famous Medusa-head bases
Local Tips
- 1Turkey is generally affordable and offers excellent value for travelers — meals, transport, and hotels tend to cost noticeably less than in Western Europe.
- 2Turkey is very safe for tourists in the main tourist areas — Istanbul, Cappadocia, and the Turkish Riviera all see millions of visitors a year with very low rates of violent crime.