Layover in Istanbul: Tips for a Stress-Free Stopover
When planning our trip, we wanted to fly from Dubrovnik to Bali, and Turkish Airlines had the best fares.
Originally, we wanted to book a quick four-hour layover in Istanbul, but then I discovered something interesting, if we stayed in Istanbul for at least one night, the flight was actually cheaper!
That made the decision easy, we decided to take advantage of the stopover and spend some time exploring the city.
Turkish Airlines also has a great stopover deal: economy class passengers can get a free one-night stay, while business class passengers get two nights.
One of the many shops within the Grand Bazaar
I believe eligibility depends on the fare type, and since our ticket was already a fantastic deal, we didn’t qualify for the free accommodation.
No big deal, we found a great place to stay right in the heart of Sultanahmet.
Note: Quite a few airlines, including Turkish Airlines, offer free city tours for passengers with longer layovers.
These tours typically include visits to major attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, etc.
Even if you’re not part of an organised tour, you can easily reach the historic Sultanahmet district from the airport using public transport.
We arrived at Istanbul Airport around lunchtime on our first day and had until midnight the following day before our next flight, giving us a solid 36 hours to explore this incredible city.
Istanbul Airport is amazing, exactly what you’d expect from a brand-new, modern airport. Our only challenge?
Figuring out the metro system.
We weren’t the only ones, there were plenty of other confused passengers gathered around the ticket machines, all trying to work out which ticket to buy.
The biggest issue?
There wasn’t a single staff member around to help.
In the end, we just bought four tickets and hoped for the best.
Spoiler alert: it didn’t work.
When we had to switch metro lines in Gayrettepe, our tickets wouldn’t scan, so we ended up buying another one-way ticket each just to get to our final destination of Vezneciler.
Between waiting around, trying to understand the ticketing system, and navigating transfers, the whole journey from the airport to our hotel ended up taking about 3.5 hours.
Looking back, I really wish we had just booked a Welcome Pickup.
It would have cost only a few dollars more, but it would have saved us so much time and hassle.
We used it in Bali, and it was absolutely worth it!
Staying in Sultanahmet was the best decision for us.
Looking through the Gates at the Blue Mosque
We were right in the heart of the action, with all the major tourist spots and activities within walking distance.
This meant we didn’t have to deal with the hassle of navigating the metro system, which was a huge plus after our initial struggles at the airport!
That said, we did use the trams, and they were much easier to figure out.
The ticketing system was more straightforward, and there was a tram worker at the station to help, making the whole experience stress-free.
So, what did we do with our 36 hours in Istanbul? A lot! We made the most of every moment, exploring as much as possible.
Here’s how we spent our time discovering this incredible city…
Things to Do in Istanbul for Free
Istanbul offers numerous free attractions for visitors to enjoy.
From magnificent mosques to bustling bazaars and picturesque parks, you can experience the city’s rich history and culture without spending a penny.
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
The Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel that has served as a church, mosque, and museum throughout its 1,500-year history.
Now a mosque again, you can visit outside of prayer times at no cost. Marvel at the massive dome and intricate Byzantine mosaics.
Hagia Sophia, it costs to go inside
Admire the blend of Christian and Islamic elements that reflect Istanbul’s unique heritage.
Be sure to look up at the stunning calligraphy panels and ornate chandeliers.
The upper gallery offers a bird’s-eye view of the main hall. Remember to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
The Blue Mosque
Just across from the Hagia Sophia stands the magnificent Sultan Ahmed Mosque, better known as the Blue Mosque.
Its six minarets and cascading domes create an iconic silhouette.
Inside, over 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles in shades of blue adorn the walls, giving the mosque its nickname.
Blue Mosque
Visit outside prayer times to explore the vast interior.
Gaze at the intricate floral patterns and Quranic inscriptions.
The mosque’s 260 windows flood the space with natural light, creating a serene atmosphere.
Beautiful domes inside the Blue Mosque
Stroll Along the Bosphorus
Take a leisurely walk along the Bosphorus Strait for stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline.
The waterfront promenade offers a perfect vantage point to watch boats and ferries crisscross between Europe and Asia.
Strolling along the Bosphorus promenade
Stop at Ortaköy for its charming square and iconic mosque. Continue to Bebek for its trendy cafes and beautiful bay.
You might even spot dolphins playing in the waters if you’re lucky.
Grand Bazaar
Immerse yourself in the colours and aromas of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. This sprawling covered market houses over 4,000 shops across 61 streets.
While you may be tempted to buy, window shopping is free and equally enjoyable.
Inside the Grand Bazaar
Wander through the labyrinth of alleys lined with jewellery, carpets, ceramics, and spices.
Watch artisans at work in their small workshops. Practise your haggling skills even if you don’t intend to buy.
Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet Square, the heart of historic Istanbul, is a treasure trove of free attractions.
Admire the Obelisk of Theodosius, brought from Egypt in the 4th century.
See the remnants of the Hippodrome, once the centre of Byzantine social life.
The square offers excellent views of both the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Sultanahmet square looking back towards the Blue Mosque
It’s a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the city’s atmosphere.
Street vendors sell roasted chestnuts and simit (Turkish bagels) if you fancy a snack.
Gulhane Park
Escape the hustle and bustle in Gulhane Park, once part of Topkapi Palace’s outer gardens.
This verdant oasis offers shady paths, colourful flower beds, and tranquil fountains.
Gulhane Park, beautiful place to relax and unwind
It’s particularly beautiful in spring when tulips bloom in abundance.
Find a bench with a view of the Bosphorus for a peaceful moment.
Visit the small Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam, housed within the park.
Entrance to Gulhane Park
Entry is free, and it showcases fascinating ancient inventions.
Arasta Bazaar
For a less overwhelming shopping experience than the Grand Bazaar, stroll through the Arasta Bazaar.
This small, open-air market behind the Blue Mosque specialises in traditional Turkish goods.
Arasta Bazaar
Browse stalls selling colourful ceramics, intricate carpets, and fragrant spices.
The bazaar is home to the Great Palace Mosaic Museum, showcasing Byzantine floor mosaics.
While the museum charges a fee, you can enjoy the bazaar’s ambiance and architecture at no cost.
Things to Do in Istanbul That Cost
Istanbul offers fascinating paid attractions that provide rich cultural experiences.
These sites showcase the city’s history and architecture while offering unique adventures.
Bosphorus Cruise
A Bosphorus cruise is a must-do activity in Istanbul.
You’ll glide along the strait separating Europe and Asia, taking in stunning views of palaces, fortresses, and bridges.
Prices vary depending on the duration and type of cruise.
Bosphorus Sea
Short tours last about 2 hours and cost around 20-30 euros.
Longer cruises, including dinner and entertainment, can range from 30-50 euros.
Book in advance for better rates, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The cruise offers excellent photo opportunities of landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Fortress.
Some tours include audio guides in multiple languages, providing historical context.
Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir, is a captivating attraction.
Built in the 6th century, it features 336 marble columns and atmospheric lighting.
Inside, you’ll walk on raised platforms above shallow waters filled with fish.
Don’t miss the famous Medusa head columns, a highlight of the cistern.
The cool interior provides a welcome respite from Istanbul’s summer heat.
Audio guides are available for an additional fee, offering insights into the cistern’s history and construction.
Allow about an hour for your visit to fully appreciate this remarkable structure.
Places to Eat
Istanbul offers a variety of delicious dining options during your layover.
From cosy cafes to scenic spots, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds and give you a flavour of Turkish cuisine.
Ehli Keyf Cafe
This charming cafe in the heart of Istanbul serves up traditional Turkish fare in a relaxed atmosphere.
You can enjoy freshly brewed Turkish Apple Tea alongside sweet treats like baklava.
Dinner at the Ehli Keyf Cafe… Sawyer looks like he’s about done
The cafe’s outdoor seating area provides a perfect spot for people-watching.
Their menu features classic dishes such as pide (Turkish pizza) and rice dishes, and the delicious vine leaves.
Prices are reasonable.
The friendly staff are happy to offer recommendations if you’re unsure what to order.
Mitara Cafe & Art
Mitara offers a unique dining experience that blends food and art.
The walls are decorated with vibrant local artwork, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The owner, Nazan, is an absolute gem, she prepares each dish fresh to order, and we especially loved the delicious vegan options.
Our boys were thrilled with the playful ambiance, as there were friendly cats and dogs to cuddle and pat.
They were in heaven!
Mitara cafe, beautiful food and a great host
We spent much of our visit chatting with Nazan, who shared stories about her pets and her passion for rescuing strays.
Her kindness and hospitality made our time there even more special.
We ended up staying for a couple of hours, soaking in the atmosphere.
One thing to note, Mitara’s is on the pricier side, which we only realised when the bill arrived.
However, the quality of the food, the warm company, and the adorable pets made it worth it.
The boys with one of the cats in Mitara Cafe
We’ll definitely be back when we return!
North Art Coffee & Breakfast
Located in the trendy Arnavutköy area, North Art is a popular spot known for its excellent coffee and hearty breakfasts.
The cafe’s minimalist decor creates a calm and inviting atmosphere, making it a great place to relax during a layover.
Their specialty coffees and teas are definitely worth trying.
For breakfast, we ordered avocado on toast with a selection of bread, as it was the only vegan option available.
Unfortunately, we found the portion size a bit underwhelming, just four small slices of bread, and for a meal that cost over $60 USD, we had expected a little more.
That said, travel is full of surprises, sometimes you win, sometimes you lose.
While the food didn’t quite meet our expectations, the cozy ambiance and quality coffee, tea and fruit shakes still made it a pleasant stop.
Sarayburnu Aile Çay Bahçesi
This tea garden offers stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait.
It’s an ideal spot to relax with a cup of Turkish tea and soak in the scenery.
The outdoor seating area is particularly pleasant on sunny days.
Relaxing in the Sarayburnu Aile Çay Bahçesi. Great for watching the ferries go by on the Bosphorus sea
While the food menu is limited, you can enjoy simple Turkish snacks like simit (sesame-covered bread rings) or börek (savoury pastries).
The real draw here is the atmosphere and the chance to experience a traditional Turkish tea garden.
Try a Simit From a Street Vendor
For a quick and authentic Turkish snack, grab a simit from one of the many street vendors around Istanbul.
These circular bread rings are covered in sesame seeds and are a popular on-the-go snack for locals.
Simit vendors are easy to spot with their distinctive carts.
A simit typically costs around 5 Turkish lira, making it an affordable option.
It’s best enjoyed fresh and warm, perhaps paired with a small cup of Turkish tea from a nearby cafe.
Accommodation
Istanbul offers a range of accommodation options for layover travellers.
Whether you prefer to stay near historic sites or close to the airport, there are choices to suit your needs.
Sultanahmet Hotels
Sultanahmet, Istanbul’s historic centre, is an ideal base for exploring key attractions.
You’ll find hotels to fit various budgets, from luxurious 5-star properties to charming boutique guesthouses.
Many offer stunning views of the Bosphorus or iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque.
Popular choices include the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet and the Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel.
These provide easy access to major sights, allowing you to maximise your layover time.
For more budget friendly options check out:
Istanbul Airport Hotels
If you have a short layover or an early flight, airport hotels are a convenient option.
Several hotels are located within or near Istanbul Airport, catering specifically to transit passengers.
The YOTEL Istanbul Airport is situated inside the terminal, offering modern capsule-style rooms.
You can book for a full night or just a few hours, perfect for quick layovers.
Turkish Airlines provides free accommodation for eligible passengers with long layovers.
You might qualify for a complimentary stay at a 4-star hotel if your layover exceeds 20 hours.
Check with the airline for specific terms and conditions.
Other nearby options include the ISG Airport Hotel and the Park Inn by Radisson Istanbul Airport.
These offer shuttle services to and from the terminal, ensuring a stress-free transfer.
Transport
Navigating Istanbul’s transport options can make or break your layover experience.
From airport transfers to city centre travel, understanding your choices is crucial for maximising your time.
Walking the streets of Sultanahmet with the Bosphorus Sea in the distance
Getting From Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet
Istanbul Airport is located about 40 km from Sultanahmet, the historic centre. The journey typically takes 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
You’ll find several transport options at the airport. Look for signs directing you to ground transportation after collecting your luggage.
Consider your group size and budget when choosing.
For solo travellers or small groups, public transport might be most cost-effective.
Larger groups or those with tight schedules may prefer a taxi or private transfer.
Remember to factor in time for customs and immigration if you’re on an international layover.
Early morning walk through the Arasta Bazaar selling spices, carpets & souvenirs
Havaist Bus and Other Transfers
Havaist buses offer a comfortable and affordable option for reaching the city centre.
They run frequently from Istanbul Airport to various destinations, including Sultanahmet.
Look for the Havaist counter or ticket machines in the arrivals hall.
You can pay with cash or card.
The journey to Sultanahmet takes about an hour.
Buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports.
Inside the Blue Mosque
They also have luggage storage compartments.
Other transfer options include hotel shuttles and shared minibuses.
Check with your accommodation or tour operator for availability.
Istanbul Kart and the Metro
The Istanbul Kart is a rechargeable smart card used for public transport in the city.
It’s valid on buses, trams, metros, and ferries.
You can purchase and top up your Istanbul Kart at vending machines in metro stations or at some shops.
It’s a cost-effective option if you plan to use public transport extensively.
Entrance to the Grand Bazaar
The M11 metro line connects Istanbul Airport to the city centre.
It’s a budget-friendly option but may take longer than other transport methods.
Consider the metro if you’re travelling light and have ample time.
It’s particularly useful for reaching other parts of the city beyond Sultanahmet.
Taxi or Private Driver
Taxis are readily available at Istanbul Airport. Look for the official taxi rank outside the terminal.
Insist on using the meter and be aware of potential scams.
It’s helpful to have your destination written down in Turkish to avoid miscommunication.
Private transfers can be pre-booked online or arranged through your hotel.
They offer a more personalised service and fixed pricing.
Obelisk of Theodosius, the family are are the bottom on the photo…
For groups or those with lots of luggage, a taxi or private driver might be the most convenient option.
It’s also ideal if you’re short on time and want to maximise your layover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Istanbul offers many opportunities for travellers with layovers.
Here are answers to common queries about making the most of your time in this historic city.
What are the visa requirements for a layover at Istanbul airport?
Most visitors need an e-visa for Turkey.
You can apply online before your trip.
Some nationalities may be eligible for visa-free entry for short stays.
Check the official Turkish e-visa website for current requirements.
How can one spend a six-hour layover in Istanbul?
A six-hour layover allows time to explore nearby attractions.
You could visit the Sultanahmet district to see the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Alternatively, take a quick trip to the Grand Bazaar for shopping and Turkish coffee.
Again factor in clearing customs, traffic and delays.
Are there any complimentary stopover accommodation options provided by Turkish Airlines in Istanbul?
Turkish Airlines offers free accommodation for eligible passengers with long layovers.
This service is available for international transit flights with layovers of 20 hours or more.
Check their website for current terms and conditions.
What are the rules for leaving Istanbul airport during a layover?
You can leave the airport if you have a valid visa or are from a visa-exempt country.
Ensure you have enough time to clear customs, explore, and return for security checks before your connecting flight.
What activities are recommended for an eight-hour layover in Istanbul?
With eight hours, you can see several key sights.
Visit the Sultanahmet district for the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Explore the Grand Bazaar.
Consider joining a guided tour to maximise your time efficiently.
These information pillars are around the area of Sultanahmet Square and the Blue Mosque.
Final Thoughts
Our short but unforgettable time in Istanbul left us completely in awe of this vibrant city.
From the moment we arrived, we were swept up in the energy of the bustling streets, the aroma of freshly baked simit, and the mesmerising calls to prayer echoing from the city’s many mosques.
One of the best things about staying in Sultanahmet was how easy it was to explore on foot.
We wandered through historic streets, discovering stunning landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, all within walking distance.
When we needed to venture further, the tram system was simple to use, especially with helpful locals always willing to point us in the right direction.
And then there was the food, oh, the food!
From eating delicious vine leaves to trying sweet, flaky baklava and the smoothest cup of Turkish tea, every meal was an experience in itself.
The warm hospitality of the locals made our meals even more memorable, whether it was a friendly vendor sharing recommendations or a café owner making sure we had the perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere.
Oh, and getting back to the airport?
We made it much easier for ourselves this time!
We arranged a taxi from our hotel to the metro station at Gayrettepe, where we knew our tickets would work (finally!), and from there, it was a easy ride straight to Istanbul Airport.
With careful planning, you can make the most of your limited time in Istanbul.
So many shops in the Grand Bazaar (over 4000) selling a wide variety of spices, teas, crafts, clothing and rugs
A eight-hour layover is enough to visit the Hagia Sophia, admire the Blue Mosque, and perhaps even squeeze in a quick trip to the Grand Bazaar.
Remember to factor in time for airport security and potential traffic delays when planning your itinerary.
While, we felt, 36 hours was nowhere near enough, it gave us just a taste of what Istanbul has to offer.
This city has a way of drawing you in, and we know for sure that we’ll be back—next time, for much longer!
Istanbul, we’ll see you again soon!
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Meet the family
We are a family of 4 living in New Zealand. I’m a teacher (great profession for traveling) and my wife Connie works in project management. We are also proud parents of two travel-loving boys.
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Hi, I've been fortunate enough to have travelled for over 25 years. My parents gave me the travel bug when I was 10 years old by taking my sister and I to the USA and Mexico for two months. I've travelled by myself, with mates, with my wife and now as a family of four. My goal is to inspire our families to get out and see the world.