At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul is the meeting point of the Turkish Airlines’ global network, connecting travelers with cities across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Türkiye’s flag carrier flies to more countries than any other airline, making Istanbul a natural gateway for travelers who want to turn a trip to Türkiye into something longer.
The city stretches across both sides of Bosphorus, where Europe and Asia meet and ferries carry passengers between the two continents throughout the day. Historic mosques and palaces sit alongside busy markets, restaurants and neighborhoods, each offering a different way into the city.
As always, food is the perfect place to start. A traditional Turkish breakfast can easily take up an entire table, with olives, cheese, eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey and clotted cream, fresh bread and simit, and tea. Head toward the waterfront in Karaköy for street food, stop into a neighborhood lokanta for home-style Turkish dishes, or cross to the Asian side to explore Kadıköy’s markets.
Then there’s Istanbul’s history. Around the Historical Peninsula, the Ayasofya has stood for nearly 1,500 years, while the Sultanahmet Mosque is known for its İznik tiles. Nearby, Topkapı Palace offers a glimpse into Ottoman court life, and the Basilica Cistern provides one of the city’s most atmospheric sights.
Beyond the major landmarks, some of the best time in Istanbul is spent simply exploring. Wander through the Grand Bazaar, try authentic Turkish sweets, spices, and coffee at Spice Bazaar, watch fishermen along the Galata Bridge at sunset, or take a ferry across the Bosphorus, passing waterfront palaces and historic homes along the European and Asian shores.
Getting there is part of the experience. With its 4 weekly direct flights between Denver International Airport to Istanbul Airport, Turkish Airlines provides Denver-outbound travelers a convenient way to experience the city. Launched in 2024, the route marked the first nonstop connection between the two cities and, at roughly 6,130 miles, debuted as the longest flight departing DEN.
Turkish Airlines operates the Denver route aboard an Airbus A350-900, with full-flat seats in Business Class and award-winning onboard dining inspired by Turkish cuisine. An overnight departure means travelers can settle in and arrive in Istanbul the following afternoon.
The airline also offers travelers connecting through Istanbul opportunities to experience the city at their own pace during a longer layover. Eligible passengers with at least a 20-hour connection can take advantage of the Stopover in Istanbul program, which provides complimentary hotel accommodation. Economy Class passengers can receive two complimentary nights in a four-star hotel, while eligible Business Class passengers can receive three nights in a five-star hotel, subject to program conditions.
For shorter connections, eligible international transit passengers can experience Touristanbul, Turkish Airlines’ complimentary guided-tour program highlighting Istanbul’s landmarks, culture and cuisine.
Istanbul can be the destination or the beginning of a longer journey, with Turkish Airlines connecting travelers onward to destinations across Türkiye and the world. But for Denver travelers, the city itself deserves more than a quick stop between flights. Stay for breakfast, take the ferry to Kadıköy, get lost in the Grand Bazaar and see Istanbul from the water. It all starts with a nonstop flight.