Istanbul, Turkey
Visit Turkey’s largest city and cultural epicenter with Inspirato. A vibrant city full of historical significance, Istanbul bridges Asia and Europe both geographically and culturally. Stay with Inspirato at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul—the only hotel on the shores of the Bosphorus strait to contain a genuine Ottoman palace. Enjoy a waterfront infinity-edge pool, spa featuring a Turkish bath, and numerous on-site dining options.
One City, Two Continents
Istanbul claims the title of the only city in the world that connects two continents: Europe and Asia. Any visit is sure to be a unique experience offering the appeal of a modern European city mixed with the relics of an ancient culture dating back to 7th century B.C. Known for its dramatic architecture, visiting Istanbul’s sprawling mosques featuring intricate tile work will be a highlight, especially the impressive Haggia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Discover vibrant displays of spices, sweets, and souvenirs at the fragrant Grand Bazaar and at the smaller Spice Bazaar. To see the city in a new light, take a sunset sightseeing cruise on the Bosphorus—the strait separating the city’s European and Asian sides—to see Ottoman palaces, fortresses, and stunning bridges. Here, you’ll find the people to be warm and welcoming, the tea to be hot and strong, and the baths to be rejuvenating.
Quick Facts
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Suggested airport
Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) -
Currency
Turkish lira -
Language
Turkish -
Time zone
7 hours ahead of NYC -
Peak season
Summer
Destination Highlights
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Haggia Sophia
An enormous architectural wonder, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was commissioned by the great Byzantine emperor Justinian, declared a church in 537, converted to a mosque in 1453, then designated as a museum in 1935.
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Spice Bazaar
Atmospheric, colorful, and fragrant, this Spice Bazaar allows you to sample what’s available. Some classic Turkish spices to look for are sumac, pul biber, nar ekşisi, and saffron. Other popular goods include herbal remedies, tea, coffee, Turkish delight, and dried fruit.
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Boating on the Bosphorus
Explore this historic waterway between the shores of Europe and Asia by boat for the best views of Istanbul and its marvelous palaces, stunning mosques. As you get farther from the city, you’ll discover beautiful inlets and fishing villages.
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Weather
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Forecasting your Istanbul Vacation
With a Mediterranean climate, Istanbul’s winters are quite cold and summers are warm and sunny. The rainiest seasons are autumn and winter. Winter temperatures hover in the 40s and summer temps in the 70s.
