All destinations
Non-Schengen
Istanbul, Turkey
Europe and Asia meet in a vibrant city of imperial mosques, waterside palaces, bustling bazaars and memorable cuisine.
City guide
Why visit Istanbul?
Europe and Asia meet in a vibrant city of imperial mosques, waterside palaces, bustling bazaars and memorable cuisine.
Essential experiences
- Hagia Sophia
- Blue Mosque
- Topkapı Palace
- Bosphorus cruise and Grand Bazaar
Plan your city break
- Suggested stay
- 4–5 nights
- Best time to visit
- April–May or September–October
- Best for
- Culture, shopping and cuisine
- Travel status
- Turkey is outside the Schengen Area; entry requirements are separate.
Oxford Holidays
Flights, stays and travel guidance in one place
Tell us your dates, budget and who is travelling. We’ll help shape a practical itinerary and explain the booking steps clearly.