Istanbul’s real magic is seeing two continents in one day. With a rental car you cross freely between the sides via the bridges.

Bridge crossings

The 15 July, FSM and Yavuz Sultan Selim bridges link the sides; crossings are automatic via HGS/OGS. Allow for rush-hour bridge traffic.

European side

Historic Peninsula, Beşiktaş, Sarıyer coast. Park on the outskirts rather than the centre.

Asian side

Kadıköy, Üsküdar, Çamlıca and the coastal road. For the evening view from Çamlıca, an automatic car adds comfort.