The old world exists in harmony with a booming population and a cosmopolitan vibe, making Istanbul an ideal destination for those seeking rich culture, magnificent architecture and sightseeing, combined with a vibrant nightlife, a choice of restaurants and the latest shopping trends. And with direct flights to Istanbul from Dublin you can be there in about 4 and a half hours.

Istanbul Holidays - Topkapi PalaceTop Attractions in Istanbul

There are numerous tourist attractions dotted around the city (see our map below). Our top 5 includes:

  • The Basilica Cistern: complete with a giant concrete head of Medusa, this intricate system once provided clean water to the city in ancient times.
  • The Blue Mosque: with an impressive 6 domes, it holds the tomb of Sultan Ahmed I.
  • The Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam: relax and unwind with a spa treatment in extravagant marble surroundings designed for Roxelana, one of the most powerful women in Ottoman history.
  • The Topkapi Palace: generations of sultans and their wives called this beautiful structure home. Wander through a maze of luscious courtyards and rooms decorated with intricate Turkish tiles, and admire breathtaking views of the Sea of Marmara.
  • The Grand Bazaar: stock up on souvenirs at one of the largest covered shopping complexes in the world, filled with a vast array of goods and spices.

For more information on what to do during your stay, visit the official Turkish tourism board website.

Click here for a full-screen map showing our top 5 attractions in Istanbul.

Basic Travel Information

When you travel to a new destination it makes things easier to find out basic information before you go, such as money, visa requirements and local transport. Take a note of the information we’ve listed below:

Istanbul City Break - Bosphorus River RestaurantTime Difference: +2 hours

Language: Turkish

Hoş Geldiniz (hosh-gel-din-iz) meaning “Welcome” is used to greet you as you enter most shops and restaurants. Confidently respond with Hoş Bulduk (hosh-bull-duk), meaning “We are well”, and the locals will be tickled pink.

Currency: Turkish Lira. 1 Lira = 33cent. Coins are called kurus.  For exchange rates see www.xe.com.

Euros are easily exchanged in banks, post offices and exchange offices (Döviz). Many shops will accept Euros but keep an eye on the exchange rate – you shouldn’t pay more than 3% commission. To withdraw cash, it is safer to use ATMs located outside national banks during business hours. All major credit cards are widely accepted, while travellers’ cheques are difficult to cash and aren’t recommended.

Travel visas: Ordinary and official passport holders need a holiday visa to enter Turkey. You can obtain a three-month multiple entry e-Visa online before you go.

Istanbul City Break - Shopping at the Grand BazaarTransport: Navigating the city shouldn’t be a problem, as Istanbul has an impressive transport system. Just remember that for all buses, trams, metros, funiculars and ferries, you need to purchase a token, as cash is not accepted.You can buy an Istanbulkart travel pass for 6TL at the airport and top it up with credit at major transit stations or small shops around the city (look for the phrase Akbil Dolum Noktası). For bus, tram and metro information see istanbul-ulasim.com.tr/en.

Are there any local laws or customs to be aware of?

If you’re concerned about local laws and etiquette in Turkey, such as dress code and drinking alcohol, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Istanbul City Break - Visit the Blue MosqueYou are required by law to carry photo ID at all times. Take a photocopy of your passport with you, so that you don’t have to bring the original everywhere.
  • It’s normal to tip 10% – 15% in all but the cheapest restaurants. In hotels, a porter will expect about 3% of the room price. Taxi fares are usually rounded up to the nearest 50 kurus. In Turkish baths, give a tip of 10% – 20% for treatments.
  • Dress modestly when visiting a mosque and take care not to eat food, make noise or photograph people while they are praying.
  • While many people drink, especially in the Beyoğlu district, public drunkenness isn’t tolerated – so take care if you’re planning a wild night out!
  • While Istanbul is a safe city, be prepared for comments by traders trying to lure you into their shops. On the whole, Turkish people are very welcoming and you will frequently be offered çay (Turkish tea) as soon as you enter the premises.

What’s the best time of year to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul City Break - the Basilica CisternWith its Mediterranean climate, there’s really no bad time to visit Istanbul. April and May have lovely warm temperatures of 15°C to 25°C, which is comfortable for exploring the sprawling city. In the summer months, temperatures can rise to 40°C, so this is the perfect time to eat outside – sample the fresh seafood at the many street cafes or take a river tour on the Bosphorus to keep cool. During winter months, the nights can be colder but daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 12°C, there are fewer crowds, and prices can be cheaper.

Where is the best place to stay?

There is a vast array of accommodation to choose from throughout this great city, from five-star international hotels to a traditional seafront house or Yali, restored palaces, classic Ottoman pensions or B&Bs in the Sultanahmet area of old city.

More more information about Istanbul holidays, including accommodation and direct flights from Dublin, see ClickandGo.com