Explore Istanbul
Istanbul, formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, is a historic and vibrant city that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. Here are some key aspects of Istanbul: Istanbul has a rich history that spans over two millennia. It served as the capital of three great empires: the Roman Empire (as Byzantium and later Constantinople), the Byzantine Empire, and the Ottoman Empire. The city has been a center of trade, culture, and power for centuries, making it one of the most important cities in the world. Situated on the Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents, with the European side to the west and the Asian side to the east. Its strategic location has made it a hub of commerce, connecting the Black Sea to the Mediterranean and serving as a gateway between Europe and Asia. Istanbul is home to a wealth of architectural treasures from various periods of history. The Hagia Sophia, originally built as a Christian cathedral in the 6th century and later converted into a mosque, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. Other notable sites include the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Byzantine-era city walls. Istanbul's unique position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia has resulted in a diverse and vibrant cultural scene. The city is a melting pot of different cultures, religions, and traditions, with influences from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations. Visitors can experience this cultural fusion through its cuisine, music, art, and festivals. Istanbul is famous for its bustling markets, including the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with thousands of shops selling everything from carpets and jewelry to spices and ceramics. The Spice Market, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is a sensory delight with its colorful displays of spices, teas, and sweets. A cruise along the Bosphorus offers breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline, historic landmarks, and waterfront mansions. Visitors can take a leisurely boat tour to explore the city from the water, passing under majestic bridges and past ancient fortresses along the way. In addition to its rich history, Istanbul is a dynamic and modern metropolis with thriving neighborhoods, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife. Neighborhoods like Beyoglu and Kadikoy are known for their trendy shops, art galleries, and nightlife venues, while districts like Ortakoy and Bebek offer picturesque waterfront settings. Overall, Istanbul is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions and modern lifestyles coexist harmoniously, making it a captivating destination for travelers from around the world.
Country
Turkey
Best Time to Visit
March, April, May, September, October, November
Ideal Duration
n/a
Visa Rules
Last updated: 2025-04-26 13:33:44
Tourist Visa
Indian citizens need a visa to visit Turkey for tourism. You can apply for a visa online or in person at a Turkish embassy or consulate.
Visa types:
1. E-visa: Available to Indian citizens with a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Ireland, or Schengen.
2. Sticker visa: Available to Indian citizens who don't have a valid visa or residence permit from the US, UK, Ireland, or Schengen. You can apply for a sticker visa in person at a Turkish embassy or consulate.
Documents Required:
1. Passport:
o Original Passport: Valid for at least 6 months.
o Photocopies: Data and amendment pages of the applicant’s passport.
o Old Passports: Original old passport booklets if any.
2. Photographs:
o 2 recent passport-size photographs with a white background (2.5 inches x 2.5 inches).
3. Visa Form:
o Completed online visa application form available at Turkish Consulate Visa Application.
4. Covering Letter:
o For Individuals/Family: Addressed to The Visa Officer, Consulate General of Turkey. Should detail the profile of the applicants, purpose of travel, travel dates, and day-to-day details.
o For Officials/Sponsored Applicants: Can be on company letterhead.
5. Bank Statements:
o Original Statements: Last 3 months, from personal and company accounts with bank seal and signature.
o Statements should reflect proof of funds and income, and be from active accounts.
o Statements should be of a closing date close to the date of visa application (A4 size preferred).
6. Income Tax Returns (ITR):
o Latest 3 years Income Tax Acknowledgement/ITR-V (Saral) for individuals and the company.
7. Itinerary / Air Tickets:
o Return Tickets: Confirmed return air tickets, including internal flight/train tickets if any.
o Itinerary: Detailed day-wise itinerary of the tour.
8. Purpose of Travel / Accommodation:
o Proof of Accommodation: Hotel vouchers, booking certificates, and payment receipts from the tour operator.
o Purpose at Destination: Any other proof related to the purpose of visit.
9. Supporting Credentials:
Businessmen:
o Proprietorship Certificate, Certificate of Registration, Memorandum of Association, Articles of Association, Partnership Deed.
o Notary and Mantralaya/MEA attestation required for each applicant.
o NOC from partners or Directors if applicable.
Employees:
o Leave sanction letter (Government employees/public servants) or last 3 months salary statements (Private firms).
o Company ID card (optional).
Pensioners:
o Retirement Certificate/Letter, Copy of Pension Book, and pension statements for the last three months.
Students:
o Leave sanction letter from the educational institution for travel during working days, Bonafide Certificate, and School/College ID card (optional).
Newlyweds/Honeymooners:
o Marriage Certificate (original) or wedding invitation card/photographs if the marriage certificate is not ready.
Children Traveling Unaccompanied:
o Notary attested NOC from both or either parent if unaccompanied, passport copies of parents, or birth certificate if parents do not have passports.
Travelers Unaccompanied by Spouse/Partner:
o Notary attested NOC from the unaccompanied spouse, passport copy of the unaccompanied spouse or any government ID proof.
10. Additional Supporting Documents (if available):
o FD Receipts, Public Shares/Debentures Certificates, Asset Evaluation Report from a CA.
Disclaimers
The above list of documents is the standard requirement for the visa application. The Embassy/Consulate/High Commission/Application Centres reserve the right to request additional documents for verification.
Travelspoc does not guarantee the outcome of any visa application. Decisions on visa applications are at the sole discretion of the respective Embassy/Consulate/High Commission.
Visa Application Centres and Embassy Information
Visa Application Centres: New Delhi, Gurgaon, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Kolkatta, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Chennai, Cochin, Trivandrum, Pondicherry, Hyderabad
Embassy of Turkey, Delhi
Address: 50-N, Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021
Tel : 011 2688 9053
Email : embassy.newdelhi@mfa.gov.tr
Mumbai Turkish Consulate General
Address: No: 101, 10th Floor, Maker Chambers IV, 222, Jamnalal Bajaj Road, Nariman Point, Mumbai-400 021
Tel : 00-91-22- 2204 0365
Email : consulate.mumbai@mfa.gov.tr
Hyderabad Turkish Consulate General
Address: Plot No:656, Road No:34 Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad - 500033
Tel : +91-7675-998992 , +91-40-6623-2323
Email : consulate.hyderabad@mfa.gov.tr
The official website to apply for a Turkey e-Visa is: