There are a number of large and well-known airlines that offer cheap flights to Istanbul. The major airport that serves this vibrant city is the Istanbul Ataturk International Airport. It is located about 24 kilometres west of the city. This airport is a modern facility that had a major addition of an international terminal in the year 2000. After arriving on your Istanbul flight with one of the nearly 100 cheap airline carriers, you can take the metro from the airport into Zeytinburnu for a small fee before boarding a tram to take you the rest of the way to Sultanahmet, also known as Blue Mosque.
The metro is a large transportation system that has many connections throughout the city of Istanbul. It links the historic areas of Sultanhamet, Eminonu, and Aksaray with the newer areas of Beyoglu, and it links the surrounding towns with each other so that you can explore the entire city with ease.
Due to problematic congestion issues, the tram system reopened during the 1990s after being closed for about 40 years. Taxis and a comprehensive bus service are alternative transportation options. If you are near the waterways, taking the ferry will offer you a scenic tour of Istanbul as you enjoy your journey to your destination.
Whether you are on a ship, boat or driving a car, the Bosphorus Bridge is a must-see tourist attraction. Opened officially in 1973, this unique bridge spans two continents, that of Asia and Europe. Seeing or driving over this bridge offers you the opportunity to experience a slice of history; it is also offers some astonishing views.
No visit to Istanbul is complete without a visit to Topkapi Palace. Home to the Sultans from the Ottoman Empire for more than 400 years, it is now a very popular museum that boasts striking views of the entire city of Istanbul from the terrace.
Now that you've saved money on your airfare to Istanbul, you'll want to do some shopping. The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is both expansive in nature and in history. Completed in 1466, this shopper's paradise is home to 12 buildings bulging with a wide variety of items that can be purchased. You can find more than 4,000 shops that present you with unique items such as local crafts, leather, and jewellery. When you need a break from shopping, you can catch a quick meal at a fast food restaurant or relax with a Turkish coffee. You will also find more ethnic fare in a more formal atmosphere as well. However you choose to enjoy your vacation, you'll be glad you took a flight to Istanbul.