Istanbul holiday apartments

When searching for accommodation in Istanbul, holiday apartments are a fantastic, cost effective option. HouseTrip offers a number of quality self catering apartments in Istanbul, spread across the city’s many districts. Many offer fabulous views of the Bosphorus, and provide an opportunity to really experience the city like the Istanbul locals do. Plus, you can book a HouseTrip apartment in as little as six clicks.

Explore Istanbul

With one foot in Asia and the other in Europe, one arm in the past and another very firmly in the future, Istanbul is a city of contrasts. Today, modern treasures appeal as much as historic monuments, offering tourists an almost endless range of things to do. Haggle for treasures at the sprawling Grand Bazaar or Egyptian (Spice) Market, catch the breathtaking 360 degree views from Galata Tower, ogle the 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles of the Blue Mosque or make like a sultan and live it up at Topkapi Palace. After all that sightseeing, kick back on a relaxing ferry ride around the Bosphorus, share a hookah pipe with some locals, or let yourself be pummelled to within an inch of your life at a traditional hamman. When hunger strikes, fill up on incredible doner kebabs and mezes, or perhaps secure a table with a view at a rooftop restaurant or bar. If you choose self-catering Istanbul accommodation, you can also take full advantage of local delights like the Kadıköy market, Turkey’s biggest food market and home to an immense range of produce.

When to go to Istanbul

Istanbul is best visited in April, May, September and Autumn, when spring and autumn bring lovely mild weather. Summer can be very hot, causing many Istanbul locals to head for the coast, while winter is often a time of biting winds and snow.

Getting to and around Istanbul

Most tourists arrive in Istanbul via air, with flights arriving at Atatürk International Airport and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. Once in Istanbul, visitors are likely to spend the bulk of their time in Beyoğlu and Sultanahmet, which are best explored on foot. Outside of these areas, public transport options include bus, ferry, seabus and metro. Consider buying an Akbil travel pass, which entitles the bearer to a 10% discount on fares and may be used on all public transport but dolmuş (shared taxis) and minibuses.

Written by Travel expert: Simon Dance