Visit Istanbul, the Turkish cultural capital!

From the fast-paced lively markets in the Bazaar district to the countless historical landmarks scattered throughout town, there is something for everyone in the city where East meets West. No matter if you're a backpacker, a honeymoon couple or a family holiday group, you can browse Likibu to find your ideal accommodation. Perhaps book a bed and breakfast apartment and get a real taste for the culture rich city or take a modern hotel with an ocean view, it is all available for you in Istanbul.

When to go?

Autumn and spring are the best times to visit Istanbul as Turkey experiences hot summers and cold winters. Visit Istanbul from March to May or September to November to get the most from your trip and avoid the heavy crowds and high temperatures of summer. In April, the city is in bloom for the International Tulip Festival, perhaps this is something to bear in mind when booking your trip.

How to get to Istanbul?

Turkish airlines reaches more destinations from its single airport in Istanbul than any other airline worldwide, ensuring that no matter where you are, you'll be able to get to Istanbul. 2019 sees the exiting upgrade of Atatürk airport, with a brand-new replacement airport which is already open and operating, ready to take over for 2019 and beyond. Istanbul is home to one of the busiest airports in the world, meaning you'll be able to find a competitive price for your journey. If you are already holidaying in Turkey, then you should definitely look to visiting Istanbul somewhere in your itinerary. From a holiday rental in Ankara  you can fly into Istanbul in only one hour, while flights from accommodation in Antalya in one hour and 10 minutes.

How to get around in Istanbul?

Walking is a great way to explore Istanbul, especially in the Sultanhmet area. Buses, metro and tram systems are also available, but are warned to be busy and could be a little uncomfortable in the warmer months; purchase an Istanbul kart and load it with fares to use as you please. Ferries are available for the crossing from the European to Asian side of the city, so do not worry if you chose to book your accommodation on a side which differs to the main attractions for your stay.

Where to stay in Istanbul?

Between the 39 Districts, you're truly spoiled for choice. The range of diverse culture available to you in Istanbul is best divided into four main areas, the older, the newer, the more Eastern and the more Western.

Sultanahmet:

If you're looking to stay in a holiday rental within walking distance of main attractions such as the Sulta place to find your accommodation. The hustle and bustle dies down significantly in the evening, leaving you time to enjoy a rest, why not enjoy one of the hotel rooms we offer on Likibu.

Galata:

If nightlife is more your thing then this is the best area for you. However, whilst busy with bars and restaurants, the Venetian influenced Galata is close to Sultan Ahmet, ensuring it will not be far from your accommodation to visit more attractions during the day. Book an apartment and take a walk along Istikal Avenue to Takism Square to enjoy what the evening in Istanbul has to offer.

Modern Istanbul:

If you're looking for something slightly more laid back, why not rent an apartment in the Besiktas district and take a stroll to the Dolmabahçe Palace? You can also enjoy a luxury holiday villa in Sariyer, slightly removed from the hubbub and bustle of the busier districts of this lively town, take in the beautiful views of the Bosphorus from some of the best holiday rentals in Istanbul.

Eastern Istanbul:

The ‘Antolian' side of Istanbul has the advantage of offering slightly cheaper prices all around, ideal for those who are looking for cheap holiday rentals in Istanbul. Although booking holiday accommodation on this side of the Bosphorus will require a crossing by boat to visit the cities historical sites, some of the most authentic Turkish experience can had here. If you're here for the football, why not get a short-term apartment rental in this convenient area and leave yourself time to explore the main tourist attractions too.

What to do and see in Istanbul?

Hagia Sophia:

This formidable religious historical site is one of the world's greatest monuments and the best of the Byzantine era. What translates as ‘Church of the Holy Wisdom' was commissioned by the Byzantine Emperor Justin I in the 6th century, when Istanbul was known as Constantinople, and built in just 6 years. This is remarkable considering the opulence of the site, with glass walls creating an impression that the canopy is suspended in the air. Having existed in a previously smaller church also, and then in 1453 having been changed into a mosque by Mehmed II, the site now serves as a part of the collective of World Heritage site called, Historic Areas of Istanbul.

Bazaars:

The Grand Bazaar was originally ordered by Emperor Mehmet in 1461 and has grown to canvas neighbouring businesses resulting in an extensive vibrancy of Turkish delights. The Spice Bazaar is similarly a visual pleasure, lined with colourful spices and Turkish Delight, nuts, dried fruits and other treats too. Remember to bargain with sellers and leave yourselves plenty of time to enjoy the bazaars.

See the sights:

Take a sight-seeing tour and do not miss a thing in Istanbul. The cities influence from its history as the capital of both the Eastern Roman Empire and the Ottoman Empire, successively, is reflected in the outstanding architectural sites in the city, including the extensive and exquisite Palace of Topkapi and Suleymaniye Mosque complex. In combination with the outstanding situation of the city on a peninsula, surrounded by a natural harbour, the Golden Horn, the fusion between natural beauty and cultural cultivation ensure that the city's skyline is one to behold.