The only city straddling Europe and Asia, where Byzantine and Ottoman histories coexist in captivating harmony. The historic monuments of Sultanahmet, the hip cafes of Karaköy, and the local atmosphere of Kadıköy deliver both Eastern and Western charm. The skyline viewed from a Bosphorus cruise is magnificent, and bargaining at the Grand Bazaar over a glass of Turkish tea is quintessentially Istanbul.
Best Season
April-June and September-November are ideal. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures perfect for sightseeing.
Budget
Daily budget approx. KRW 70,000-150,000 (lodging 40,000-80,000, food 20,000-40,000, transport and admissions 10,000-30,000)
Transport
Roughly 1 hour by Havaist bus from Istanbul Airport to Taksim. Get around the city via metro, tram, Marmaray, and ferry - an Istanbulkart transit card is essential. Prepaid SIMs are available at the airport (Turkcell, Vodafone, etc., about TRY 200-400). Card payments are accepted at tourist venues, but bazaars and small shops prefer cash. Tipping 5-10% at restaurants is standard.
Visa
Korean passport holders may enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
Safety
Beware of touts and overcharging at tourist spots. Make sure taxis use the meter, and stay alert when bargaining at the Grand Bazaar.
Popular attractions in Istanbul
Hagia Sophia
A Byzantine cathedral now serving as a mosque. A 1,500-year-old architectural masterpiece.
View details →
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
An Ottoman mosque renowned for its six minarets and more than 20,000 blue tiles.
View details →
Grand Bazaar
The world's largest covered market with over 4,000 shops selling spices, carpets, and jewelry.
View details →
Find hotels in Istanbul
Compare hotels, guesthouses & resorts in Istanbul
Signature food of Istanbul
Kebab
🍱 TraditionalTurkey's national dish: charcoal-grilled meat and vegetables wrapped in flatbread. About TRY 100-200 (EUR 3-6). Sultan Kebab in Fatih or local eateries in Kadıköy are recommended.
Turkish Baklava
🍰 DessertA Middle Eastern pastry of thin filo layers stuffed with pistachios and drenched in honey. About TRY 200-400 (EUR 6-12) per box. Karaköy Güllüoğlu in Karaköy is Istanbul's top spot.
Simit
🍢 Street FoodA sesame-crusted ring bread, a Turkish breakfast staple. About TRY 10-20 (EUR 0.30-0.60). Available from street carts everywhere — perfect with a glass of çay (Turkish tea).