The airport are expanding their flights this JulyTurkey, Istanbul, Galata Bridge(Image: Getty)
Earlier this year, Bristol Airport announced it would be expanding the number of destinations it offers travellers, with one of those destinations being the most visited city in 2023 – Istanbul.
Now, this summer, Bristolians and other local holidaymakers can easily go and see what all the fuss is about thanks to this new direct flight.
Bristol Airport says: “Holidays in Istanbul promise an unforgettable mix of East and West, with must-see sights including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
“Wander through the vibrant streets of Sultanahmet, cruise the Bosphorus, and savour authentic Turkish cuisine in local eateries.
The Blue Mosque in Istanbul(Image: Getty)
“Fly from Bristol into Istanbul Airport (IST), located on the European side and ideal for central access, or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, which also offers excellent connections and convenient access to different parts of the city.”
Currently, passengers can fly to Istanbul Airport on Mondays and Fridays with easyJet, but from July you will also be able to fly to Sabiha Gökçen Airport with Pegasus Airlines three times a week. Allowing travellers to access both areas of the city with ease.
Istanbul is described by TripAdvisor as: “A city that mixes old and new, and the best way to explore it is through its mahalles (neighbourhoods).
“Get your history fix in Beyoğlu—it’s chock-full of 19th-century European elegance—or head to Sultanahmet and see the holy sites. Then, make your way to Nişantaşı for high-end shopping and trendy restaurants, or pop into a bar or cafe in edgy Kadıköy.”
Galata Tower in Istanbul(Image: GETTY)
Plenty of cultural sites and museums in Istanbul come recommended, such as Ayasofya, Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and Basilica Cistern.
Istanbul’s tourism website boasts of the cities culture, saying: “One of the most captivating facets of this mesmerizing metropolis is its treasure trove of museums. These institutions provide a fascinating window into the city’s diverse past, offering a captivating journey through the ages.”
Previous visitors of the city have shared on TripAdvisor the range of experiences and sights on offer in Istanbul.
One tourist wrote: “There are so many cliched phrases used to describe İstanbul – ancient and modern, where east meets west, old world blended with new world etc etc and they are all true. There is history, culture, shopping, sightseeing, museums, galleries, boat trips. There is SO much!”
While another said: “Istanbul is a magnificent city…one full of beauty, history, spectacular architecture, amazing restaurants, views to die for, wonderful little family-owned hotels, exceptionally kind and honest people, fun filled nightclubs, exotic sounds, exotic smells, and many other fabulous things too numerous to mention.”
According to Skyscanner, flights to Istanbul in June, where the weather reaches an average high of 27C, start around £82 one-way with easyJet.
The new Pegasus flights are also going for a similar price around £90 according to Skyscanner, but be sure to book your flights on day where there is a direct route, otherwise your ticket could double in price.