Istanbul City Guide

Discover Istanbul at your own pace with this self-guided adventure through its rich history and vibrant culture. Begin at the majestic Hagia Sophia, a symbol of Byzantine and Ottoman grandeur, then explore the intricate mosaics of the Blue Mosque and the sprawling courtyards of Topkapi Palace. Wander through the bustling alleys of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest markets, and savor Turkish delights at every turn.

HOW TO REACH

### **How to Reach Istanbul**

Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, is easily accessible by air, land, and sea. Here’s how you can get there:

#### **By Air**
Istanbul has two major international airports:
- **Istanbul Airport (IST):** Located on the European side, it’s the city’s main hub for international flights, with direct connections to cities worldwide. Airlines like Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and Lufthansa frequently operate here.
- **Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW):** Situated on the Asian side, this airport primarily serves domestic and low-cost carriers such as Pegasus Airlines.

From both airports, you can reach the city center via metro, Havaist shuttle buses, taxis, or private transfers.

#### **By Train**
Istanbul is connected to European cities like Sofia, Bucharest, and Belgrade via international train routes. The Balkan Express and other sleeper trains offer scenic journeys into the city. Domestic rail options also link Istanbul to other Turkish cities.

#### **By Bus**
Long-distance buses connect Istanbul to neighboring countries and cities across Turkey. Major bus terminals like Esenler Otogar serve routes from destinations such as Greece, Bulgaria, and other parts of Europe.

#### **By Sea**
Istanbul is a popular stop for Mediterranean cruises. Ferries from Greek islands like Chios and Rhodes dock at Turkish ports such as Çeşme or Marmaris, with onward connections to Istanbul by bus or plane.

Whether you choose to fly in quickly or take a scenic overland route, Istanbul’s well-developed transport network ensures a smooth arrival into this historic metropolis.