Istanbul Holidays

Book a Hotel + Flight or Car together to unlock savings

  • Plan, book, travel with confidence

  • Better together

    Save up to NZ$800 when you book a flight and hotel together*
  • Find the right fit

    With over 300,000 hotels worldwide, it's easy to create a perfect package
  • Rest easy

    Plan, book, and manage your trip all in one place

Our guide on where to stay in Istanbul

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

Istanbul Holiday

Things to do in Istanbul

Shopping

Istanbul offers a vibrant shopping experience. The Grand Bazaar is a must-visit public market, bustling with local crafts and souvenirs. For a modern touch, check out Vadistanbul AVM and Viaport Outlet Shopping, both offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Tupras Stadium, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Seek tranquillity at Cilingoz Nature Park, where you can unwind amidst nature's beauty. Enjoy captivating performances at Uskudar Tekel Sahnesi, offering a blend of romance and culture for a delightful evening out with family or friends.

Adventure

At GMAX Reverse Bungy, feel the adrenaline rush as you're launched high into the air, offering breathtaking views of Istanbul. Experience thrilling races at Istanbul Karting Park, where fast-paced karting will get your heart racing. Enjoy family fun at Babalu Park, packed with exciting arcade games and adventure vibes.

Nightlife

Istanbul's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Start with a cocktail at 360 Istanbul for stunning views. For a more local vibe, check out the lively bars in Kadıköy. Don’t miss the famous rooftop clubs in Taksim, where the atmosphere is electric and the music flows into the early hours.

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

Find the best attractions in Istanbul

Istanbul is a captivating destination perfect for city and culture-themed vacations, offering a rich blend of mosques, beaches, and churches to explore. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and outdoor experiences by visiting iconic sites such as the Topkapi Palace. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse attractions, Istanbul promises an unforgettable journey for every traveller seeking adventure and cultural enrichment.

  • Blue Mosque: Known for its stunning blue tiles and elegant domes, the Blue Mosque is a magnificent example of Ottoman architecture. Visitors are often awed by its serene atmosphere, intricate designs, and the captivating call to prayer that resonates throughout the day.
  • Hagia Sophia: Once a cathedral and later a mosque, Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Its vast dome and rich mosaics tell tales of its diverse history, making it a must-visit for those interested in culture and art.
  • Galata Tower: This medieval stone tower offers panoramic views of Istanbul. Climbing to the top rewards you with breathtaking sights of the city skyline and the Bosphorus, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

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 cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May63.7°F (17.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June72.5°F (22.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July77.4°F (25.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
August77.9°F (25.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September72.3°F (22.4°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
November57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Istanbul

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Istanbul.
  • Consider traveling to Istanbul during the low season (January to March) for more affordable options.
  • 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.

Our pick of the best Istanbul Hotel Deals

Elite World Istanbul Taksim

Elite World Istanbul Taksim

5 out of 5
Sehit Muhtar Caddesi No:42 Istanbul Istanbul
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$198 per night from 23 May to 24 May
NZ$198
23 May - 24 May
includes taxes & fees
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,009 reviews)
Our family enjoyed this hotel very much. We booked for 6 nights. We we really liked was great location and wonderful staff like Feride who was so nice to our family. The hotel also has nice swimming pool, sauna, steam room and hammam. Walking distance to Taksim Square, transport link and main shopping ...

Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026

Elite World Istanbul Taksim
Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul

Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul

5 out of 5
Visnezade Mah. Acisu Sok. NO. 19 Istanbul Istanbul
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$520 per night from 17 May to 18 May
NZ$520
17 May - 18 May
includes taxes & fees
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,225 reviews)
I had an amazing 3-night stay at Swissôtel The Bosphorus in Istanbul. From the moment I arrived, everything exceeded expectations. The room was incredibly comfortable—perfect for relaxing after long days exploring the city. The staff truly made the experience special. Everyone was friendly, welcoming, ...

Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026

Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul
Titanic City Taksim

Titanic City Taksim

4 out of 5
Kocatepe Mahallesi Lamartin Caddesi Istanbul Beyoglu
The price is NZ$163 per night from 9 May to 10 May
NZ$163
9 May - 10 May
includes taxes & fees
Titanic City Taksim
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.

Discover the most popular places to visit in Istanbul

What to do in Istanbul

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.