ISTANBUL, TURKEY
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, a city where East meets West, offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern attractions. Expect warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and breath-taking sights, all while navigating a city that blends tradition with a cosmopolitan energy.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November)
Where to Stay
Areas To Stay
Sultanahmet (Historic & Cultural) – Close to major landmarks, ideal for first-time visitors.
Beyoğlu & Karaköy (Trendy & Social) – Perfect for cafes, nightlife, and boutique stays.
Kadıköy (Local & Vibrant) – Located on the Asian side, offering authentic experiences and a laid-back atmosphere.
Nişantaşı (Upscale & Stylish) – Great for shopping and a more luxurious stay
LATITUDE Squad Reviewed Hotels
Hotel Nena *** Sultanahamet
Great loction for Sutanahamet area and 2 minutes away from T1 Tramline.
Rooms were a decent size, a very comfy bed, great shower and ameneties such as a safe, fridge and kettle.
Reception super helpful and very friendly. My room included breakfast and there was a wide choice of tasty food available.
Stayed Jan 25
Solo
Edibe Sultan Hotel *** Sultanahamet
The location was good for restaurant and bars near by and 5 minutes away from T1 Tramline. Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia were a 5 minute walk away.
Rooms had a more traditional Trukish theme to them and comfortable bed.
Breakfast was good, buffet style with a great selection of savouries and sweets.
Stayed May 22
With friends & family
Other Hotel Recommendations
Recommendations from other travellers
Hotel 1
Hotel 2
Hotel 3
Ready to book - head over to booking.com
Transportation & Getting Around
Airport Transfers
The safest way to get from the airport to the city is to book a taxi via your hotel. You can get a taxi outside the airport but be prepared to haggle.
You can also use the M11 metro line to get into Instanbul and then pick up other lines or trams to get to you destination.
Public Transport
The metro, tram and ferry systems in Istanbul is a great and reasonable way to get around Istanbul. Get yourself a Instanbulkart (a pre-paid card you top up) to pay for your tickets. The public transport system is a super affordable way to get around the city which can be very traffic heavy.
Where to Eat & Drink
Best Local Cuisine: Must-try dishes and food experiences.
Solo-Friendly Restaurants & Cafes: Places that are welcoming to solo diners.
Nightlife & Social Spots: Safe bars, lounges, and social events.
Top Things to Do
Daytime Activities
Historic Exploration:
Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque – Must-visit landmarks.
Topkapi Palace – Home to Ottoman treasures.
Basilica Cistern – A mystical underground wonder.
Shopping & Markets:
Grand Bazaar – Traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Spice Bazaar – Aromatic spices, teas, and Turkish sweets.
Cruise the Bosphorus:
Take a ferry ride or sunset cruise for panoramic city views.
Turkish Bath (Hammam):
Visit Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami for an authentic spa experience.
Evening Activities
Sunset at Galata Tower – Stunning views over the city.
Dinner at Mikla – A rooftop fine-dining experience with city views.
Rooftop Bars & Cafes:
16Roof (Swissôtel) or Balkon Restaurant for drinks and skyline views.
Whirling Dervish Ceremony – Experience a mesmerizing Sufi ritual.
Beyoğlu & Karaköy Nightlife – Cozy cocktail bars and live music spots.
Safety & Travel Tips
Local Laws & Customs: Important cultural norms to be aware of.
Common Scams & Areas to Avoid: Warnings and tips from solo travelers.
Emergency Contacts: Local helplines, embassy details, and safety apps.
Community Reviews & Recommendations
Check out our squad review
“A Spontaneous Weekend in Istanbul” - NEED TO ADD LINK
Other Traveller Experiences: Real stories, ratings, and tips from the community in the short term link of to other blogs on the are
Final Thoughts
Istanbul is a fascinating destination for solo female travelers, offering a perfect balance of history, culture, and adventure. With the right mix of exploration, delicious food, and safety awareness, you’re set for an unforgettable experience in this dynamic city!