4 hour layover in Istanbul ....
 

I will have a 4 hour layover in Istanbul in 2 weeks.

Is it worth going into the city from the airport for a few hours? If so, what would be worth seeing during a quick visit such as this. How far is the city from the airport by taxi???

Appreciate your advice.

I'm not sure I'd venture into the city with only a four hour layover. The traffic can be horrendous depending on the day of the week, time of the day, and events in the city.

If you do decide to chance it - Sultanahmet Square would probably be my recommendation as there is a lot to see in that area (including Sultanahment Mosque and Haghia Sophia).

Have a safe trip.

With only four hours, bring a book -- no need risking bad traffic, passport control, etc. By the time you deplane, clear passport control, you will have lost between 30 minutes and an hour so and you need to be back a couple of hours before departure, and with travel time, you'll have very few minutes in the city.

Istanbul is one of the world's great cities and deserves much more than the 15 minutes you'd have to explore.

I agree with the others as far as 4 hours doesn't seem to be much time with customs etc. to really see Istanbul - too bad it's a wonderful city. If your plane does get delayed, I would suggest the same areas as mentioned nice walking areas - keep in mind that there can be (at least in my experience) long lines entering the mosques. You don't have to enter however to appreciate the beauty of these places though - although they are quite impressive inside and will give you a bit of a sense of culture.
The other thing that you could try is to go to the Grand Bazaar - fun and hectic if that's your cup of tea - hit the outside perimeters for the real Turkish goodies and prices - there are a few tiny local restuarants along the outer edges and streets as well, if time permits. Too much to see in too little time.
Enjoy!
Sherry
p.s. check ahead for soccer games and various events etc. as the whole city will clog with fans

Appreciate the quick feedback. Wasn't really thinking about passport control, etc. + all the other possibilities enroute to the city.

Do plan to go some day to Turkey, maybe next year. So I'll hit Istanbul in depth if I do get to do this trip.

Again, thx for the feedback. Will enjoy the airport to the fullest!!!