17 days in Istanbul Itinerary

A physical and cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, the transcontinental city of Istanbul serves as a living reminder of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires.

Head to Arasta Bazaar and Istiklal Caddesifor plenty of shopping. Get some cultural insight at Ortakoy and Aya Yorgi Church. Change things up with these side-trips from Istanbul: Nakibey Plaj (in Buyukada), Ulu Cami (in Bursa) and Altinkemer Local Beach (in Karamursel). And it doesn't end there: look for gifts at Mısır Çarşısı, stop by Beyoglu, take a stroll through Eminonu Square, and see the interesting displays at Rahmi M. Koc Museum.

To find where to stay, traveler tips, and other tourist information, read our Istanbul holiday planning tool.

If you are flying in from The Netherlands, the closest major aiports are Istanbul Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. In September, daytime highs in Istanbul are 26°C, while nighttime lows are 26°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 30th (Wed) to allow time to travel back home.