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Picture of Istanbul, İstanbul, Türkiye

Travel Guide for
Istanbul

Türkiye

Mediterranean with wet winters

Introduction

Istanbul, straddling Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus, is a city where ancient history meets cosmopolitan flair. June brings warm, pleasant evenings—perfect for strolling along the waterfront or dining al fresco.

Once the heart of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, Istanbul dazzles with grand mosques, majestic palaces, and vibrant bazaars. Luxurious hotels offer breathtaking views, while private yacht cruises along the Bosphorus set the scene for romance.

Enjoy gourmet rooftop dinners with panoramic sunsets or book a couples’ spa at a historic hammam—romance and elegance thrive in Istanbul’s enchanting atmosphere.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleRomantic getaway

Dates22-25 June 2025

BudgetHigh budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

gastronomyfestivals and eventsoutdoor adventuressightseeing and tours

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Picture of Istanbul, İstanbul, Türkiye

Key Facts

Location

Marmara Region

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Religion

Islam (Sunni majority), others

Population

15,600,000

Language

Turkish, some English

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type C/F

Time zone

UTCTRT (UTC+3)

Country code

+90

Internet access

Widespread, high-speed, affordable

Climate

Mediterranean with wet winters

See More Türkiye Facts

Language:

Turkish

  • hello

    merhaba (mehr-hah-bah)

  • goodbye

    hoşça kal (hosh-cha kahl)

  • yes

    evet (eh-vet)

  • no

    hayır (hah-yuhr)

  • how much

    bu ne kadar? (boo neh kah-dar)

  • please

    lütfen (loot-fen)

  • thank you

    teşekkür ederim (teh-shehk-kur eh-deh-reem)

  • excuse me

    affedersiniz (ahf-feh-dehr-see-niz)

Logistics

Reaching Istanbul is easiest and quickest via air, with two major international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW). For a romantic, high-budget getaway, consider flying business or first class with direct connections from major world cities. Many luxury airport transfer services are available for a seamless hotel arrival.

High-speed trains connect Istanbul to other Turkish cities, while long-distance buses offer overland routes across the country. If you wish for a more romantic approach, private yacht charters can take you to Istanbul via the Bosphorus. Weather in late June is warm and ideal for sightseeing, but booking in advance is recommended due to high travel demand.

Weather

Istanbul has a temperate climate, blending Mediterranean and Black Sea influences. Winters are cool and wet, with occasional snow, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant, making them perfect times for sightseeing and exploring outdoor adventures.

From June 22 to June 25, expect warm temperatures around 25–30°C (77–86°F), with long daylight hours and occasional humidity. Rain is rare but not impossible. Extreme weather is uncommon during this time, providing excellent conditions for outdoor festivals, gastronomy tours, and exploring historic sights along the Bosphorus.

Food & Drink

Istanbul is a paradise for food lovers, offering romantic experiences with its vibrant culinary scene. Savor traditional dishes like meze, fresh seafood, kebabs, and baklava, accompanied by raki or Turkish wine. For a luxurious, romantic dinner, consider Mikla for contemporary Turkish cuisine with skyline views, or enjoy seafood on the Bosphorus at Sunset Grill & Bar.

High-end rooftop bars such as 16 Roof and fine cafes like Çırağan Palace’s afternoon tea offer elegant atmospheres. In upmarket restaurants, tipping 10-15% is customary. Istanbul caters well to vegetarians and vegans, but informing your server about dietary needs is wise. Reservations are recommended for top restaurants, especially during weekends or special occasions.

A picture of Kebab

Kebab

Kebab is a famous Turkish dish consisting of meat that is either skewered and grilled or cooked in...

A picture of Manti

Manti

Manti is a type of Turkish dumpling filled with spiced ground meat and served with yogurt and a...

A picture of Baklava

Baklava

Baklava is a sweet, rich pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with...

A picture of Turkish Delight

Turkish Delight

Turkish Delight, also known as Lokum, is a confection made from starch and sugar, flavored with various fruit...

A picture of Menemen

Menemen

Menemen is a traditional Turkish breakfast dish made with tomatoes, peppers, and eggs, all cooked together to create...

Accommodation

For a romantic, high-end stay, consider hotels in Sultanahmet or along the Bosphorus. The Four Seasons Hotel at Sultanahmet and Ciragan Palace Kempinski offer luxury, historic charm, and exceptional views. Nişantaşı is also ideal for upscale boutiques and chic hotels like Park Bosphorus Hotel.

Beyoğlu and Karaköy neighborhoods are lively and stylish, housing options like The Bank Hotel and Soho House Istanbul with elegant suites and superb amenities. Book through trusted websites like Booking.com or Expedia for the best rates and flexible options. For travel in late June, reserve early—summer is peak season and luxury properties fill up fast.

Itinerary

Begin your journey by soaking in Istanbul's storied past with immersive sightseeing and indulging in refined gastronomic experiences, all wrapped in a romantic atmosphere.

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise with Champagne

Drift along the Bosphorus at sunset on a private yacht, sipping champagne as you pass opulent palaces and illuminated bridges. Ideal for couples seeking an unforgettable start to their romantic getaway.

Private Transfer From Istanbul Airport to Istanbul

Private Transfer From Istanbul Airport to Istanbul

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Why choose us for your journey? We guarantee a stress-free, punctual, and comfortable experience. With our team of professional drivers, you're in safe hands. We also actively track flight schedules to ensure timely pickups, regardless of delays. Our fleet consists exclusively of clean and comfortable minivans. Upon arrival, we greet you at the airport and escort you to your vehicle. Stay hydrated with our complimentary bottled water and stay connected with our Wi-Fi onboard. In summary, you're not just getting from point A to B; you're enjoying a top-notch transportation experience equipped with premium amenities.

4.9 (379 reviews)

From $71 USD

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Attractions

4.9 (379 reviews)
Private Transfer From Istanbul Airport to Istanbul

Private Transfer From Istanbul Airport to Istanbul

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Why choose us for your journey? We guarantee a stress-free, punctual, and comfortable experience. With our team of professional drivers, you're in safe hands. We also actively track flight schedules to ensure timely pickups, regardless of delays. Our fleet consists exclusively of clean and comfortable minivans. Upon arrival, we greet you at the airport and escort you to your vehicle. Stay hydrated with our complimentary bottled water and stay connected with our Wi-Fi onboard. In summary, you're not just getting from point A to B; you're enjoying a top-notch transportation experience equipped with premium amenities.

From $71 USD

View Details
5.0 (105 reviews)
Istanbul Shore Excursion : Best Seller Private Istanbul Tour

Istanbul Shore Excursion : Best Seller Private Istanbul Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

-Personalized Istanbul Shore Excursion -Guaranteed On-Time Return To Your Ship Whether you're interested in art,food,or history,customized Istanbul shore excursions allow you to delve deeper into your interests.Expert guides can tailor your journey to include off-the-beaten-path attractions and hidden gems of the city. Discover Istanbul at your own pace, with personalized tours that cater to your curiosity. *Istanbul Shore Excursion Today* From timeless monuments to culinary adventures, Istanbul shore excursions are your gateway to an unforgettable cultural feast. Seize the opportunity to explore this captivating city, its rich tapestry of history, and its warm, bustling atmosphere. Book your Istanbul shore excursion now and prepare for an experience that will leave !! Remember to end with a clear call-to-action, inviting readers to take the next step, whether that's booking a tour or learning more about the offered excursions. Also you can make luxury istanbul and cappadocia tour.

From $225 USD

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4.2 (272 reviews)
Istanbul Shore Excursion: Istanbul in One Day Sightseeing Tour

Istanbul Shore Excursion: Istanbul in One Day Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This sightseeing tour of Istanbul provides the perfect introduction to the fabled city that spans Asia and Europe. On this shore excursion you will see how old meets new when you visit Istanbul's four "must-see" historic sites.

From $95 USD

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FAQ

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