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The stunning city of Istanbul in Turkey is unique in that it straddles two continents, Europe and Asia, and connects both via a bridge over the Bosphorus river. Spectacular, bustling and packed full of religious sites and culture, Istanbul is also the only city to have played capital to consecutive Christian and Islamic empires, something which it’s immensely proud of. Indeed, its history both ancient and more recent, has shaped the area’s history for more than 2500 years and given rise to a huge array of fascinating attractions. From the breath-taking Byzantine church of Haghia Sophia (Aya Sofya) to the domineering city walls, and the domes and minarets of the Ottoman mosques and palaces that stretch up into the sky, a feast awaits your senses at every turn.
Although Ankara is now the country’s capital, Istanbul has held on to its robust economy and modern intellectual culture where east meets west, old meets new. Step away from the city center and enjoy a more traditional feel by venturing in the conservative districts such as Fatih. Bearded men sporting skullcaps and baggy shalwar-style trousers loyally adhere to the call to prayer, whilst women only leave the home with their heads covered up in traditional head dresses. But glance back across the river and the endless stream of people working their way down the Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Street) includes young Turkish men and women mingling amongst the tourists and international business men in recognisable designer clothing, unlikely to have even stepped foot inside a mosque before.
Don’t forget the absolute must-sees of Istanbul along the way, including the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace, the Beyoglu nightclubs and chic rooftop cocktail bars. Three to four days is enough to see the major historical sights in Sultanahmet as well as hopping on a ferry trip on the Bosphorus. But if you want to fully explore the backstreets of the old city, the outskirts and the islands whilst living like a true local, you’ll realistically need anything from a week to ten days.
If Istanbul sounds like perfect destination for your next trip, why not take a look at our full range of flights on offer, including first class and business class flights too.
5 Things You Need to Know About Istanbul
Istanbul is fascinating, enchanting and fun for everyone. So you can make the most of your visit, it’s worth knowing a few basic facts before you go:
Time Difference: UTC +3 hours
Currency: Turkish Lira
Native Language: Turkish
Weather: July is the hottest month in Istanbul with an average temperature of 24°C (74°F) and the coldest is February at 6°C (42°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 12 in July. The wettest month is January with an average of 100mm of rain.
Sales Tax: 18%
Flying to Istanbul from the US
Before you start planning your trip, here’s everything you’ll need to know when flying to Istanbul from the US.
Flight Times
Travelling times vary depending on where in the US you’re flying from. As a guide, from New York to Istanbul takes around 10 hours, whilst Los Angeles to Istanbul is around 14 hours.
Entry Requirements
Passports must be valid for six months beyond your entry date. You will be denied entry into Turkey if there is not enough space for entry and exit stamps in your passport. You need a visa to travel to Turkey.
Airlines That Fly to Istanbul
The following airlines currently offer direct flights from the US to Istanbul:
- Turkish Airlines
- Pakistan International Airlines
The Airport
Istanbul Atatürk Airport (ISA)
Atatürk International Airport (IST) is the busiest of Istanbul's two airports. It is located 23km to the west of the city centre. The second, and newer airport is Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side of the Bosphorus and is about 30km south east of Kadikoy.
Taking a cab is the easiest way to get from Atatürk International Airport to Taksim in the center of the city. It takes approximately 30 minutes, however Istanbul is a big city and traffic is always an important factor.
10 Istanbul Must-Dos
Make the most of your time in Istanbul using our list of the ten main things to see whilst you’re there:
- Suleymaniye Mosque
- Sultanahmet District
- Hagia Sophia Museum / Church (Ayasofya)
- Blue Mosque
- Bosphorus Strait
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Ural Ataman Classic Car Museum
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Gulhane Park
Book Cheap Flights to Istanbul with Globehunters
If you’re looking for cheap flights to Istanbul from the USA, look no further than Globehunters. As one of the world’s leading flight booking agents, all bookings made through us are 100% secure.
Get in touch today and speak to a member of our friendly, knowledgeable travel team who will be pleased to help put together the perfect package for you.