Flights from Edinburgh to Istanbul

Magical, historical Istanbul, a tale of two continents. 

Sitting on the tip of the East, with western Europe just a stone's throw across the water, Istanbul is a city that has been through many cultural and religious changes, but has a truly modern, 21st century feel. However, it is still one of the world's best cities for amazing history, buildings and romantic tales, and somehow the atmosphere remains romantic and almost mystical. 

The best time to see Istanbul

With a Mediterranean climate, the best months to visit are between May and October, and although it can get very hot in the Summer, the waters of the Black Sea and the Bosphorus keep it pleasant. Try a visit in spring, and get swept up in the celebrations on the 19th May, for the Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day. Or perhaps leave it until October and join in Ramadan or Eid, and finish off with the republic day on the 29th of October.

Things to do before you travel 

Turkey is on GMT+2 hours, and British nationals need a visa, but it's available online. Also, passports should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entering Turkey. Check these vaccinations are up to date: Hepatitis A, Typhus, Tetanus and Diphtheria. There are some fabulous markets, like the Grand Bazaar and the Egyptian Bazaar, but goods are often overpriced, because haggling is a tradition, and usual, so get some practice in first perhaps. Food wise, Istanbul is a fast food paradise, with street vendors and wonderful eastern European and middle Eastern dishes. Snacks are available from 2 TRY, kebabs from 8 TRY. Fish is expensive, and beer costs from 6 TRY.

Local information on transport, getting about, and accommodation.

To reach the central city head to -2 floor at the airport terminal and take a shuttle bus operated by HAVATA or IETT for the price of 50 TRY or so. Taxis will be more expensive at approx. 200 TRY. Plan around 40 minutes for the journey and longer during rush hour traffic.

Good, cheap public transport network: bus, metro, minibus, ferry, metrobus, tram. Istanbulkart: rechargeable and valid for all public transport. Taxis are more expensive than public transport but cheaper than in the UK. Accommodation starts from 1 night in a Hostel/Guesthouse from 30 TRY. Wide choice of accommodation in the districts: Eminönü (Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar) & Beyoğlu (Taksim Square,  İstiklâl Caddesi). Finally, 'The Prince Islands' are worth visiting: car free only horse drawn carriages are allowed.