For centuries described as an exotic nexus of East meets West, Istanbul has served as the capital of three of the greatest empires in Western history and is on the legendary gateway between Europe and Asia. From its striking Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia to the souks of the Grand Bazaar and the lively Galata quarter in Beyoglu district, this dynamic city is on the thrilling edge of age-old tradition and modernity.

  • Perfect for
    Adventurers | Art Lovers | Families | Foodies | Intellectuals
  • When to go
    March-May | September-November
  • Ideal length of stay
    3-5 Nights

Designing Your Journey

Work with Indagare to design the perfect itinerary for an immersive journey. Our travel experts know the destination inside and out, and they can make recommendations based on your travel needs and preferences.

  • EssentialIstanbul-LP

    Essential Istanbul

    The ancient crossroads between Eastern and Western culture is best explored with an itinerary that features insider access. Here is just one example of what our destination experts can create for you.

    • Day 1-2: Historical Istanbul

      After centuries as the most coveted city in the world—due to its profitable trade location between the East and the West—Istanbul, previously known as Constantinople and Byzantium, is rich in both Christian and Islamic culture. Spend your first few days touring the winding streets of the city with an expert guide who can share the history and the secrets of such iconic sites as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace and more.

    • Day 3-4: Markets and Shopping

      After your busy program of sightseeing, enjoy some time to explore the treasures and tastes that this cultural melting pot has to offer. No visit to Istanbul is complete without a guided tour of the Grand Bazaar, a shadowy trove full of spices, trinkets, silk rugs and more. You can also visit the best neighborhoods for boutiques and high-end shops. In the evenings, enjoy cocktails with a view at your hotel before dinner at an Indagare-recommended restaurant.

    • Day 5: Bosphorus Cruise

      After breakfast, enjoy a guided visit to one of the city’s many impressive art or history museums. Alternatively, you can choose to visit a rug showroom for a weaving demonstration and exclusive shopping experience. In the afternoon, experience a private boat tour down the legendary Bosphorus River. You will be able to take in the beautiful chalets that line the river and breath-taking views of historical sites like the minarets silhouetted by sunset.

  • Member Stories

    "The private boat charter on the Bosphorus was the highlight of Istanbul. No one should ever miss that experience if the weather allows."
    An Indagare Member since 2010
Indagare's Eliza Harris
"There is nothing subtle about Istanbul. It is high drama, regal and over-the-top—and from a cultural and historical perspective, as mind blowing as one’s first visit to Rome or Paris. It is simply unmissable, even in the off season, even in November."

What To See & Do

Ready to go and in need of expert trip planning? Contact us today.

What To Read

Everything we recommend is sourced first-hand by our well-traveled team and incredible network of insiders and resources around the world. Here are some the latest articles, interviews, and book and film recommendations not to be missed.

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