Istanbul

Istanbul is a unique city at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, combining an oriental atmosphere, rich history, bustling bazaars, mosques, palaces and views of the Bosphorus. It is one of the most visited cities in the world and offers an unmistakable blend of cultures, flavours and traditions. The city’s main landmarks include Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar. Istanbul is an ideal destination for a long weekend, a sightseeing trip and also as a transfer point to other destinations in Asia and Africa.

Flights from Bratislava

You can fly from Bratislava to Istanbul with direct Pegasus Airlines flights. Flights operate to Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, which is located approximately 47 km from the city centre. Pegasus Airlines operates regular flights from Bratislava to Istanbul 3 to 4 times a week, and the flight takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Transport from the airport

• HAVABUS shuttle – the official shuttle service connects Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport with the city centre, especially the Taksim area. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
• Metro and public transport – you can also use public transport from the airport, especially the metro and connecting transfers to different parts of Istanbul. This option is practical mainly when travelling without larger luggage.
• Taxi / private transport – taxi services are available directly at the airport and are a convenient option for travelling to your hotel, especially for late arrivals or larger luggage. The journey to the centre can take approximately 45–90 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Transfer / shuttle – you can also use pre-booked private transfers directly to your hotel. This option is practical especially when travelling to the historic Sultanahmet area, Taksim or when travelling in a larger group.
• Car rental – you can rent a car directly at the airport, but when staying in Istanbul itself, it is usually recommended to use public transport, taxis or ferry connections, as traffic in the city is often very heavy.

What not to miss in Istanbul

When visiting Istanbul, you should definitely not miss these places and experiences:

• Hagia Sophia – one of the city’s most important landmarks, which has served as a church, mosque and museum throughout its history.
• Blue Mosque – the iconic Sultanahmet Mosque with six minarets and beautiful interior decoration.
• Topkapi Palace – the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, with beautiful courtyards, collections and views of the Bosphorus.
• Grand Bazaar – one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, ideal for buying souvenirs, jewellery, ceramics and spices.
• Egyptian Bazaar – a fragrant market full of spices, teas, sweets, nuts and traditional Turkish specialities.
• Bosphorus – a cruise on the Bosphorus offers beautiful views of both the European and Asian sides of the city.
• Galata Tower – a historic tower with panoramic views of Istanbul, the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.
• Sultanahmet – the historic district with the city’s best-known landmarks within walking distance.
• Turkish gastronomy – taste kebab, pide, lahmacun, baklava, simit, Turkish tea and authentic Turkish coffee.

Did you know?

Istanbul is the only city in the world located on two continents – Europe and Asia. When visiting, it is worth getting an Istanbulkart, which you can use on the metro, trams, buses, ferries and cable cars. One of the most beautiful experiences is a Bosphorus cruise at sunset, when the city reveals itself from a completely different perspective.