Why should I book my Istanbul holiday with Expedia?

With great-value flights, car hire and accommodation options all in the same place, Expedia makes arranging your Istanbul adventure easy. Moreover, we can help you bundle your bookings into a package holiday so you can save even more. Pick from fabulous properties, add your flights and/or a car hire (and maybe also some exciting activities!) and get unbeatable prices. Need to cancel? Expedia offers a flexible cancellation policy for many reservations. To find out more, visit our Customer Service Portal link .

When is the best time of year to holiday in Istanbul?

Into sightseeing but don't like huge crowds? Lock in your Istanbul trip for November, December and January. Typically, it's much quieter than in May, August and September. Organise your getaway to Istanbul based on what type of holiday you want. January is the coolest time of year, when average daytime temperatures are 7ºC. In July, the warmest period, you can expect averages of 25ºC during the day.

What are the top hotels for my holiday in Istanbul?

Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class and Hotel Yasmak Sultan are some excellent picks in the neighbourhood of Kadıköy. If you're thinking of staying in the Ataşehir area, lock in a room at ISG Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel - Special Class or Senatus Hotel - Special Class .

How do I get a cheap holiday to Istanbul?

Our Istanbul holidays promise plenty of savings for the savvy explorer. For the best deal, simply bundle your flights, hotels and activities. But impressive bargains are just the beginning of your next unforgettable adventure. When you book with Expedia, and you'll have over 400 airlines and 321,000 hotel options around the world to choose from. No matter your style, there's a holiday here to suit you. Learn more about how you can save money on your holiday when you bundle your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.

What should I do on my Istanbul holiday?

Offering must-see tourist attractions like Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia , a holiday in Istanbul is full of exciting things to see and do. Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern are a couple of other sights also worth exploring.

What are the best neighbourhoods to stay in when on holiday in Istanbul?

For many, Sariyer is the top pick. Home to big attractions like Rumeli Hisari, this area is a wonderful introduction to Istanbul. Of course, spending your nights in Beylerbeyi is also tempting. Beylerbeyi Palace is one must-see to tick off here.

Do I need a visa for my Istanbul holiday?

Research the latest information on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're travelling for work or pleasure will determine if you need a visa for Istanbul. Familiarise yourself with the application process, including any required documentation, fees and turnaround times. Submit your application well in advance to allow enough time for processing. Some visas can take weeks or even months to obtain, depending on the country and time of year.

What should I wear on my Istanbul holiday?

Do some research into the types of clothing people in Istanbul wear, and consider browsing social media fashion pages for inspiration. Try to create a versatile wardrobe filled with pieces that suit your destination and showcase your unique style. Pack your bags with confidence by looking up the local weather conditions in Istanbul. July brings the warmest temperatures, with daily averages of 25ºC, while January days average 7ºC, making it the coolest time of year.

What does an Expedia Istanbul holiday include?

Hotels, flights and car hires, or any combination of the three — it's your pick! Whether you're exploring Istanbul on a family road trip or travelling by yourself, there's a package to suit your style and budget. Once you've made your booking, why not add on some tours and experiences? Discover an excellent range of property types and choose one that fits your travel needs. The most in-demand rentals here are apartments and hotels. With Expedia, it's a breeze to tailor-make your Istanbul retreat however you like.

Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Istanbul holidays?

Your bank balance shouldn't stop you from escaping on holiday, so Expedia has devised a solution to help. Now that we've partnered with online lender Klarna, it's easier than ever to book your dream getaway without making a dent in your savings. Klarna offers flexible payment options during the checkout process that take the stress out of budgeting for your trip. Check out these flexible payment options: Pay monthly holidays : Klarna offers manageable monthly payment plans that work for all budget sizes, so you can escape on that well-deserved holiday sooner. No-deposit holidays : If not paying ahead of time for your getaway makes clicking that "book now" button easier, choose a no-deposit holiday plan with Klarna so you can Book Now, Pay Later!

Can I choose my airline with an Istanbul Expedia holiday?

Most definitely. Expedia has more than 400 partner airlines to select from around the world. With such a big range of choices, finding the perfect carrier to get you to Istanbul will be easy.

Istanbul Holidays 2025 from $365

Top Istanbul Flight + Hotel Deals

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Richmond Istanbul

Taksim

per person

19 Sept - 23 Sept

found 24 hours ago

Return flight included

London (LGW) to Istanbul (IST)

8.8/10 Excellent! (908 reviews)

The staff here was absolutely amazing! We were greeted by the sweetest female concierge. I'm so sorry I forgot her name. However, if for some reason she's not around, everyone was super pleasant, gave great recommendations and were always available for any questions we had. Rooms were very clean and pretty spacious. The bathroom was very nice. Breakfast in the morning had alot of options as well. Overall, we would definitely return!

Reviewed on 17 Jul 2025

Carina Gold Hotel and Restaurant

Sultanahmet

per person

7 Sept - 12 Sept

found 23 hours ago

Return flight included

Birmingham (BHX) to Istanbul (IST)

9.6/10 Exceptional! (494 reviews)

Very convenient location and everything is at walkable distance. Even though in breakfast not much option but hotel staff is very friendly and We will stay in this hotel agin in our next visit to Istanbul.

Reviewed on 8 Aug 2025

Hotel Gritti Pera

Istanbul City Center

per person

10 Sept - 16 Sept

found 22 hours ago

Return flight included

Birmingham (BHX) to Istanbul (IST)

7.8/10 Good! (77 reviews)

Great location. Murad is a great lad, he allowed us to check in early and helped us find a taxi for our transfer. I’d suggest Gritti Pera to work on their breakfast.

Reviewed on 15 Jul 2021

Sultan Tughra Hotel - Special Class

Sultanahmet

per person

22 Sept - 29 Sept

found 1 day ago

Return flight included

Birmingham (BHX) to Istanbul (IST)

8.4/10 Very Good! (464 reviews)

The location is excellent, with all the main attractions within walking distance—and to top it off, the beach is just around the corner.

Reviewed on 29 Oct 2024

Bricks Hotel Istanbul

Bahcelievler

per person

23 Sept - 30 Sept

found 1 day ago

Return flight included

Birmingham (BHX) to Istanbul (IST)

8.6/10 Excellent! (724 reviews)

bit expensive mini bar

Reviewed on 4 Aug 2025

Where to stay in Istanbul

Find the best Istanbul areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Istanbul

Visit Istanbul: explore Istanbul holidays and more

Where to stay in Istanbul

Package deals to Istanbul are a great way to explore the Turkish megalopolis straddling Europe and Asia. The city's many fascinating neighbourhoods are home to a wide selection of welcoming Istanbul hotels. Travellers weary from exploring the city's many cultural, architectural and culinary delights can choose to lay their head in the city's comfortable and conveniently located hotels.

City centre: Lay your head in the city centre and you'll be able to enjoy countless attractions on your doorstep.

Sultanahmet: This vibrant neighbourhood is home to the city's famous Blue Mosque.
Taksim: The buzzing district of Taksim is the heart of modern Istanbul.
Kadikoy: A favourite among foodies, you'll find some of the best Iskender kebab – a Turkish delicacy – in this neighbourhood.

How to find cheap Istanbul deals

If you're looking to book a cheap holiday to Istanbul, combining the costs of the hotel, flights, car hire and activities into Istanbul package holidays is a great way to make travel easier and more affordable for you. You can unlock savings of up to 65* on Istanbul package holidays on Expedia. All-inclusive holidays to Istanbul are another great way to save on travel costs and hassle. If you're feeling flexible, visit Istanbul from December to February, when sun-seeking travellers tend to skip the city and deals can be found. Last-minute holidays to Istanbul are particularly appealing this time of year, as occupancy rates tend to be lower. Plus, by using Expedia's search and sort functions and filters, you'll find some of the best prices when planning your cheap holiday to Istanbul.

Top things to do in Istanbul

There are all kinds of things to do in Istanbul, from exploring world-famous sights to enjoying the easy side of life. Here are some of the most beautifully preserved Ottoman sites to see.

Topkapi Palace: Visit the beautifully preserved Ottoman palace – its extensive gardens offer respite for the weary traveller.
Blue Mosque: The magnificent landmark, named after its tiled interior, is one of the most extravagant mosques in the city.
Hagia Sophia: Visit the spell-binding site for a deeper understanding of how cultures meet and merge in this magnificent melting pot of a city.

If all these classic Istanbul activities have left you feeling tired, unwind like the locals with a dip in Turkish baths or indulge in a plate of the mouth-watering local cuisine at the incredible restaurants that you'll find on every corner of this city.

Istanbul honeymoon packages

Plan the ultimate romantic getaway with Istanbul honeymoon packages. Expedia offers a wide selection of romantic hotels in Istanbul for newlyweds to choose from, offering a range of indulgences to enjoy. Opt for a sumptuous spot like Sumahan on the Water for al fresco dining with magnificent views in an adults-only establishment, or enjoy a soothing couples’spa treatment at RixosPera Istanbul. Hotels marked 'Great for couples' on Expedia are sure to be suitable for honeymooners.

Istanbul luxury holidays

Discover Expedia's selection of luxury hotels in Istanbul and book the ultimate decadent getaway in the most vibrant of Turkish cities. Istanbul is a place that doesn'tcompromise on pleasure, and neither should you when it comes to choosing your accommodation. Enjoy a wonderful night's sleep in gorgeous surroundings as friendly and helpful staff cater to your every need. Istanbul luxury holidays, like the city itself, are synonymous with delight.

Things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul offers a vibrant blend of cultural and urban experiences, perfect for tourists. Enjoy the traditional Turkish bath, explore the city's rich history, and take in stunning sightseeing opportunities. Don't miss out on the friendly attractions and fantastic shopping found in its bustling shopping centres and malls. Whether you're here for leisure or business, Istanbul promises an unforgettable adventure steeped in culture and charm.

Shopping

The Grand Bazaar offers a vibrant shopping experience, perfect for souvenirs and gifts amidst its bustling atmosphere. For a more modern vibe, visit the Mall of Istanbul or Vadistanbul AVM, where you'll find family-friendly entertainment alongside a variety of shops.

Recreation

At Ataturk Olympic Stadium, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of sports, perfect for fitness enthusiasts. For a tranquil escape, Cilingoz Nature Park offers serene walking trails and lush greenery, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature's beauty. Tupras Stadium provides another exciting venue for sports lovers.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Istanbul Park, where adrenaline meets speed in a vibrant atmosphere. Hike the Sultans Trail for breathtaking views and a taste of the great outdoors. For family fun, Aqua Club Dolphin offers exhilarating water attractions in a lively setting.

Nightlife

Istanbul's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Explore the trendy rooftop bars in Beyoğlu, where you can sip cocktails with stunning views. For an authentic experience, visit a meyhane in the historic Sultanahmet, enjoying traditional meze and live music that captures the city's rich culture.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Istanbul

Istanbul offers a rich blend of culture, history, and vibrant city life, making it ideal for city-themed and culture-themed holidays. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including magnificent mosques, scenic beaches, and historic churches. Whether you're seeking a cultural experience, outdoor adventures, or simply the charm of city life, Istanbul has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to discover its unique local points of interest during your visit.

Taksim Square: A vibrant hub of Istanbul, Taksim Square is renowned for its lively atmosphere, cultural events, and modern city vibes. It's an ideal spot for people-watching, dining, and immersing yourself in the local culture.
Hagia Sophia: Once a cathedral, then a mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia boasts stunning architecture and rich history. Its magnificent dome and intricate mosaics reflect the diverse cultural heritage of Istanbul, making it a must-visit.
Blue Mosque: Officially known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque is famous for its striking blue tiles and elegant minarets. This architectural masterpiece offers tranquil beauty and an insight into Ottoman religious culture.

Best time to go to Istanbul

The best time to visit Istanbul can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Istanbul falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Istanbul falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly	Average	Average

Tips to save on your trip to Istanbul

Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to March) for more affordable package holidays to Istanbul.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Top hotels in Istanbul

The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul

Suzer Plaza, Askerocagi Caddesi, No:6, Elmadag/Sisli, Istanbul

Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay

£227

14 Aug - 15 Aug

includes taxes & fees

9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,000 reviews)

"Very clean"

Reviewed on 6 Aug 2025

Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class

Piyer Loti Cad No:7, Istanbul, Istanbul

Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay

£113

14 Aug - 15 Aug

includes taxes & fees

9/10 Wonderful! (2,039 reviews)

"Fantastic staff. Great hospitality. Their breakfast was excellent. Located in a historic neighborhood. 6 to 8 minute walk to the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. Lots of dinning and shopping options around. We were in Istanbul for just 3 days and couldn't have asked for a better ..."

Reviewed on 6 Aug 2025

Elite World Grand Istanbul Kucukyali

Inonu Cad. No 22, Kucukyali Maltepe, Istanbul

Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay

£83

9 Aug - 10 Aug

includes taxes & fees

9/10 Wonderful! (1,070 reviews)

"The view of the Hotel"

Reviewed on 5 Aug 2025

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.