Flights to Istanbul with a Touch of Iceland

Istanbul is large and sprawling, so it helps to get a feel for what neighborhoods to prioritize. First and foremost is Sultanahmet, the historic heart of the city that's home to the best-known sights, all within walking distance of each other.

A short tram ride from Sultanahmet, across the Galata Bridge, is the Beyoglu district. The major landmark here is Taksim Square, a busy nightlife, shopping, and dining area. Vintage trams shuttle along Istiklal Caddesi, the city’s main pedestrian boulevard. The network of side streets here is fun to explore.

To see a more authentic side of Istanbul, Kadikoy on the Asian shore is a great choice. Its popularity has exploded in recent years, creating a vibrant neighborhood of cafes and restaurants, boutiques and street art. A highlight here is the fish and produce market.

One of the best activities for visitors is a cruise on the Bosphorus, the narrow waterway that bisects the heart of the city, effectively separating Europe and Asia. There are numerous cruise options, including dinner and sunset choices, and they all give you a stunning sightseeing perspective of the city's landmarks.

Also understandably high on wish lists: a traditional Turkish hammam, or bathhouse experience. It usually involves a number of cleansing rituals across a variety of rooms, including saunas, steam rooms, scrubbing rooms, wash rooms, salt rooms, and pools. The fact this often takes place inside a 16th-century Ottoman monument is icing on the cake!