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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)

Map

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.

Istanbul “PRIVATE“Guided Tour: For Major Historical Attractions

Istanbul “PRIVATE“Guided Tour: For Major Historical Attractions

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This Private unique guided tour covers the major Sightseeings of Istanbul without waiting in ticket lines and with this day tour You will visit the Blue mosque-Hagia Sophia-Topkapi palace -Basilica cistern-Hippodrome and Grand bazaar .historical places can be visited easily with short distances by walking BRIEFLY 1- BLUE MOSQUE : 400 year old mosque built by the Ottoman Empire in the 17th century AD 2- HAGIA SOPHIA : 1500 hundred year old church from the 6th century-Roman time right now partly mosque and museum 3- TOPKAPI PALACE : 500 year old imperial palace of Ottoman Empire .( closed on Tuesdays ) 4 Basilica cistern : underground water tank from the 6th century AD by the Roman Empire to provide the water to the city 4 HIPODROM the area where chariot races were held 5 -Grand bazaar: 500 year old bazaar from the ottoman time together with 3500 shops inside (closed on Sundays )

5.0 (156 reviews)

From $110 USD

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Attractions

4.2 (191 reviews)
Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Istanbul

Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Istanbul

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover magnificent sightseeing of the city of Istanbul which is considered as the bridge between Europe and Asia. Unique opportunity for everyone to explore deeply all major touristic highlights within a short time with a special audio-guide equipment.

From $65 USD

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4.8 (29 reviews)
Istanbul Sightseeing Walking Tour

Istanbul Sightseeing Walking Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Ideal for travelers who want to experience Istanbul for the first time, this 3-hour city tour will take you on a journey through the landmarks and legends that have shaped modern Istanbul. You’ll stroll through Sultanahmet Square and Ancient Roman Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia and amble past Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Basilica Cistern, hidden areas and bustling streets of Grand Bazaar and Spice Market. Your guide will point out places to get the best local snacks and coffee, as well as show you the main points of interest along the way. Learn about art, food and architecture while discovering the city’s top rated sites from outside. Choose from morning or afternoon departure. • Spot Istanbul’s landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern • Learn about the city’s history from your guide • Wander the city’s secret backstreets • Stop by Spice Market

From $59 USD

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4.7 (219 reviews)
Istanbul City Tour and Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Lunch

Istanbul City Tour and Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Lunch

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover Istanbul's rich Culture and history with our experienced guides. Skip the Museum Ticket Queues with your guide. Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Brief Handicraft Presentation next to Grand Bazaar (Optional, guest may opt to explore the bazaar on their own), Spice Bazaar and take a Cruise on The Bosphorus, the strait that separates Europe and Asia. Lunch included.

From $113 USD

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4.2 (273 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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3.7 (208 reviews)
Small-Group Bosphorus Cruise and Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar

Small-Group Bosphorus Cruise and Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore the aromatic maze of stalls that make up Istanbul’s Spice Bazaar, and then hop aboard a sightseeing boat for a jaunt along the famous Bosphorus Strait! After traveling to the bazaar by coach and learning about the city from an onboard guide, enjoy some free time to explore and browse stalls selling fresh mint, cardamom, cinnamon and more. Follow up the market visit with a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise and see a collection of sights including the decadent Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Hisarı Fortress.

From $90 USD

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4.0 (2 reviews)
Tailor-Made Istanbul Private Tour with Expert Local Guide

Tailor-Made Istanbul Private Tour with Expert Local Guide

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

See the sights of Istanbul that most interest you on a customized, 8-hour tour with a private guide. Marvel at monuments from the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, such as Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern. **Private full-day tour of Istanbul **Personalize the itinerary to suit your interests **Hear insightful commentary from your guide **Hotel pickup and drop-off is provided

From $68 USD

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4.4 (220 reviews)
Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour

Private Istanbul Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Take a hassle-free tour of Istanbul's most famous attractions with your own private guide to lead the way. You'll enjoy personalized attention on your private tour of magical Istanbul and its signature sights: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.

From $225 USD

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4.0 (3 reviews)
Istanbul Old City Sightseeing Tour (Entry Fees Inculuding)

Istanbul Old City Sightseeing Tour (Entry Fees Inculuding)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Immerse in Istanbul's UNESCO-listed Old City and visit the highlights of the ancient city of Constantinople on this 9-hour, small-group sightseeing tour led by an art historian. Marvel at the dome of the Hagia Sophia (from Out Side Not Entry)), descend into the bowels of the Basilica Cistern (from Out Side Not Entry), and explore the Roman-era Hippodrome. After a 3-course Turkish lunch, admire the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, and brave the chaos of the Grand Bazaar.

From $149 USD

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4.4 (20 reviews)
Full-Day Istanbul Tour with Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise

Full-Day Istanbul Tour with Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the two faces of Istanbul, the world’s only city situated on two continents, on this enjoyable full-day city tour. Traveling in a Mercedes minivan, head for the Spice Bazaar to peruse its colorful stalls, and tour the sumptuous Dolmabahçe Palace, the last residence of the Ottoman emperors. Drift by Istanbul’s sight-crammed European and Asian shores on a Bosphorus cruise, and asborb panoramic views of both sides of the city from the Bosphorus Bridge. With a maximum of 12 people, get personalized attention from your guide on this small-group tour.

From $129 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
Private 7 hours Istanbul Highlights Sightseeing Tour with Bazaars

Private 7 hours Istanbul Highlights Sightseeing Tour with Bazaars

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Welcome to Istanbul, where Europe and Asia meets. Your private guide will be ready at the port with a sign that will have your name written on it. Visit highlights of Istanbul with your private guide including: Hippodrome Square, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. • Private Tour for your family and friends • You will decide on departure time • Our tour guide will meet you at the Port/Hotel with your name sign, • Our professional tour guide will be with you from arrival till departure, • You will have flexibilty to spend how much time you want in each site and customize the itinerary, • You do not have to wait for other group members • You may stop to have pictures during your tour. • You may stop for lunch in a local restaurant to taste famous Turkish Kebaps

From $119 USD

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FAQ

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