18 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.

Get some historical perspective at Koza Hani and Green Tomb. You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at Sapanca Lake and Uzuntarla Tabiat Parki. Get out of town with these interesting Istanbul side-trips: Eriklitepe Tabiat Parki (in Basiskele), Buyukada (Aya Yorgi Church, Buyukada Tabiat Parki, & more) and Ulu Cami (in Bursa). Spend the 3rd (Sun) exploring nature at Cilingoz Tabiat Parki. There's still lots to do: head outdoors with Outdoor Activities, take a stroll through Beyoglu, kick back and relax at Alman Koyu, and trek along Delmece Yaylasi.

To see other places to visit, ratings, photos, and tourist information, refer to the Istanbul tour planner .

If you are flying in from Morocco, the closest major airports are Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. October in Istanbul sees daily highs of 28°C and lows of 26°C at night. Cap off your sightseeing on the 3rd (Sun) early enough to travel back home.