Why people love visiting historical Istanbul
Enjoy the area's museums, history and cathedral with a rental holiday home in Istanbul. This city's cafes, shopping and architecture draw many visitors. Local cultural sights include Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. With a holiday rental, you get a home away from home – many rentals offer full kitchens and outdoor grills for some home cooking.
Sightseeing in and around Istanbul
Are you hoping to discover top things to see and do in the city? Although it can be tempting to stay in your comfortable holiday rental, you'll want to check out everything that makes Istanbul a one-of-a-kind holiday spot. These are some of the most popular attractions to put on your list, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:
- Kilic Ali Pasha Hamam (1.3 mi / 2.1 km)
- Istanbul Buyuksehir Belediyesi Kultur sanat Hizmetleri (3.1 mi / 4.9 km)
- Vialand Tema Park (5.2 mi / 8.4 km)
- Bostanci Gosteri Merkezi (7.4 mi / 11.9 km)
- Sefakoy Kultur ve Sanat Merkezi (9.4 mi / 15.1 km)
- Istanbul Aquarium (9.8 mi / 15.7 km)
Exploring the natural features in Istanbul
Whether you're an active traveller or just want to take in the scenery, Istanbul is a great spot to appreciate mother nature. Here are some of the area’s most stunning sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:
- Bosphorus (8.9 mi / 14.3 km)
- Gülhane Park (0.4 mi / 0.7 km)
- Taksim Gezi Park (2.2 mi / 3.5 km)
- Golden Horn (2.3 mi / 3.7 km)
- Macka Park (2.7 mi / 4.3 km)
- Golden Horn Park (2.9 mi / 4.6 km)
Travelling to and around Istanbul
Fly into Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), the closest airport, located 18.9 mi (30.4 km) from the city centre. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could also fly into Istanbul (IST), which is 21.2 mi (34.1 km) away.
If you're travelling by train, Istanbul Cankurtaran Station, Sirkeci Marmaray Station and Istanbul Kumkapi Station are the main stations that serve the city. You can get around Istanbul by jumping on the metro at Sultanahmet Station, Gulhane Station or Cemberlitas Station.