Museum admission fees can add up quickly (and most attractions actually charge tourists in Euros rather than Turkish lira).

It's also one of the biggest tourist draws in Istanbul. Visitors say this mosque offers stunning architecture inside and out. It can, however, get busy, so consider arriving early. And remember ...

The best times to visit Istanbul are from March to May and between September and November. That's when crowds at the city's attractions are manageable, room rates are average and daytime ...

But once you’ve visited the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, taking a ferry ride over to the Asian—or Anatolian—side of Istanbul is where you’ll find the more local-leaning attractions.

Istanbul is buzzing with vibrant celebrations as the city marks the Chinese Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, throughout January.