How to Plan a Trip to Istanbul
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Turkey needs.
Your 4-step Istanbul plan
Step 1 — Book flights to IST
Istanbul Airport Airport (IST) is the main gateway to Istanbul. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to ISTStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Karaköy & Galata for the best first-time visit — Hip neighbourhood around Galata Tower.
Where to stay in IstanbulStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Istanbul.
Things to do in IstanbulStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Metro M11 (to Gayrettepe, then M2) is $2 and takes 40 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
IST arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
e-Visa required for many nationalities including US, UK, and EU — apply at evisa.gov.tr (takes 10 min, valid 180 days). Some nationalities visa-free up to 90 days.