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The essentials for your Istanbul trip
Clear, useful advice to help you plan your first days, choose the right neighbourhood and move around with confidence.
EXPLORE BY INTEREST
Find the guides you need
Landmarks, museums, cruises and experiences.
NeighbourhoodsExplore Sultanahmet, Galata, Taksim and Kadıköy.
Food & DrinkTurkish breakfast, street food, sweets and dining tips.
Hotels & StaysChoose an area that fits your plans and budget.
TransportationAirport routes, public transport and getting around.
Safety & ScamsRecognise common tourist traps and plan confidently.
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT
Useful advice, without the guesswork
From historic sights and Bosphorus ferries to transport and accommodation, our guides focus on the practical details that help you plan a smoother Istanbul trip.
Browse trip-planning guides →
OUR OWN VISIT
Inside the Topkapı Harem: Our Photos and Notes
A series written from our own family visit to the Harem of Topkapı Palace on 26 July 2026. Every photograph was taken by us on that visit, and every observation comes from our notes. It is first-hand coverage, not a rewrite of other guides.
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Inside the Topkapı Harem: A Room-by-Room Walk Through Our Visit
A first-hand walk through the Topkapı Harem: courtyards, staircases, tiled rooms and water niches, with our own photos…
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Iznik Tiles in the Topkapı Harem: Cypress Panels, Tree of Life and Blue-and-White
Iznik tile panels in the Topkapı Harem: a tree-of-life panel, a blue-and-white fireplace, tile arches and a sample…
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Stained Glass, Mother-of-Pearl and Gilding: Craft Details in the Topkapı Harem
Stained glass, a mother-of-pearl door and painted domes in the Topkapı Harem, shown in our own photographs and…
NEW THIS WEEK
Latest Istanbul Guides
Fresh, practical advice to help you plan your visit to Istanbul.
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Stained Glass, Mother-of-Pearl and Gilding: Craft Details in the Topkapı Harem
Stained glass, a mother-of-pearl door and painted domes in the Topkapı Harem, shown in our own photographs and…
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Iznik Tiles in the Topkapı Harem: Cypress Panels, Tree of Life and Blue-and-White
Iznik tile panels in the Topkapı Harem: a tree-of-life panel, a blue-and-white fireplace, tile arches and a sample…
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Does It Snow in Istanbul? What to Expect From Winter Snow
Snow in Istanbul is possible from December to March, but it is not reliable. Most winter days bring…
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Inside the Topkapı Harem: A Room-by-Room Walk Through Our Visit
A first-hand walk through the Topkapı Harem: courtyards, staircases, tiled rooms and water niches, with our own photos…
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Food Allergies in Istanbul: Turkish Phrases, Allergen Words and Eating Out
Food allergies in Istanbul are manageable if you plan ahead. Restaurants cook with nuts, sesame, dairy and wheat…
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Istanbul Street Cats: Why They Are Everywhere and How to Treat Them
Istanbul’s street cats are part of daily life. People feed them, shopkeepers share doorways with them, and visitors…
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