Things to do in Istanbul

April to June and September to November have mild weather for walking and cruises. Summer is hot and busy, and winter is cooler and rainy but much quieter.

Cover your shoulders and knees, and women should bring a scarf to cover their hair. Shoes come off at the entrance. Visits pause during prayer times, so check the timing when you plan the day.

Three to four days covers the old city, a Bosphorus cruise, the bazaars and a neighborhood or two on the Asian side.

For popular tickets and small-group tours, a few days to two weeks ahead is a safe window, and more in peak season or around holidays. Many day tours and food walks still have space a day or two before, so it is worth checking live availability even for last-minute plans.

Many experiences include free cancellation, usually up to 24 hours before the start time. Each listing shows its own policy, and the ones marked "Free cancellation" can be cancelled for a full refund within that window.