Istanbul Travel Guide
Turkey
Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city, with a population of 15,847,768, spanning the Bosphorus between Europe and Asia. It is the country’s main urban centre and a practical base for exploring both sides of the city.
Most international visitors arrive at Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen International Airport. Istanbul is not a beach-focused destination, and there are no notable named beaches within 40 kilometres, so plan separate time for coastal trips if swimming and seaside days are a priority.
Local time
Population
Weather in Istanbul
Sun
Mon
Tue
Know before you go
Pays in TRY
Plug type Type C & Type F (UK adapter needed)
Emergency 112
Dial code +90
Tipping: Tipping is appreciated in Turkey, but not always mandatory. It's a way to show appreciation for good service.
Best time to visit Istanbul
Jan
11°11Feb
10°10Mar
15°13Apr
17°9May
21°11Jun
28°4Jul
31°3Aug
30°3Sep
26°7Oct
21°7Nov
17°10Dec
12°14Average daily maximums with rainy days per month, from the last three years of weather history.
Beaches near Istanbul
Güneş Beach
16.5 km away
Menekşe Beach
17.6 km away
Things to do in Istanbul
Galata Kulesi
museum
1.9 km
Yeni Camii
muslim place of worship
1.1 km
Hagia Irene
museum
0.3 km
Fatih Camii
muslim place of worship
2.5 km
İstanbul Arkeoloji Müzesi
art museum
0.4 km
Molla Zeyrek Camii
muslim place of worship
2.2 km
Fethiye Müzesi
museum
3.5 km
The Museum of Innocence
history museum
2.5 km
Getting there
Istanbul Airport · 34.2 km
Sabiha Gokcen International Airport · 30.1 km
Frequently asked Questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.