Istanbul
Where East meets West across two continents
Weather in Istanbul · Now
17°C
Overcast
90%
15 km/h
Today
17° 12°
100% rain
Wed
17° 12°
43% rain
Thu
18° 16°
91% rain
Fri
16° 14°
84% rain
Sat
15° 14°
28% rain
About Istanbul
Istanbul straddles two continents across the Bosphorus strait. The city layers Byzantine mosaics, Ottoman mosques, and modern skyscrapers in one magnificent skyline. Its bazaars, hammams, and Bosphorus boat rides are unforgettable.
How to Explore
Stay in Sultanahmet for historic proximity or Beyoglu for modern nightlife. Utilize the tram and ferry systems to cross between the European and Asian sides of the city. Spend time walking through the Grand Bazaar and taking a Bosphorus cruise to see the city from the water.
Language
Turkish
Currency
Turkish Lira
Best Time
April–May or September–October
Climate
14°C
Safety
Moderate
Timezone
TRT (UTC+3)
When to Go
Best overall
April–May or September–October
Most beautiful
April and October: tulips bloom and mild temperatures make walking pleasant
Cheapest
November–February: winter is cold but hotels are very affordable
Peak crowds
June–August
When are you going? Pick a month:
Istanbul in October
Temperature
14° – 19°C
Rainy days
~13 days
Prices
Medium
Crowds
Medium
Cool autumn air makes this a perfect time for sightseeing.
Plan a trip in October
