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Wander-Lush

42 Things to Know Before You Visit Istanbul: Helpful Istanbul Travel Tips

Istanbul is a magnificent beast.

Thirty-nine districts, 15 million people, and 1700-plus years of history – it’s still difficult for me to wrap my head around a city of this scale.

I never know where to begin with Istanbul. And yet every time I arrive, I somehow feel instantly at ease. Turkey’s biggest metropolis has a way of encircling you, sweeping you up and taking you along for the ride. For me, it’s one of those places where it’s best to relinquish expectations and anxieties and just go with the flow.

That’s easier said than done, and there are countless tidbits I wish I had known before I visited Istanbul for the first time back in 2019. On my recent re-visit, there were many more things I noticed for the first time.

I struggled to whittle this list down to a digestible size – not because travelling in Istanbul is particularly complicated or difficult, but because when you’re dealing with a city of such incredible breadth and depth, there’s just so much to talk about.

Here are 42 Istanbul tips that I think every traveller will benefit from , including cultural quirks, itinerary planning tips, logistics hints, and common faux pas.

• Also read: The perfect itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Istanbul quick links

• Istanbul airport transfer: Private transfer from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen (from $27)
• Where to stay in Istanbul: Hostel Le Banc (budget); 38 Hotel (mid-range); Hotel Empress Zoe (boutique); Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (luxury)
• Istanbul Official E-Pass: Pre-purchase online here
• Skip the line: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour (from $40)
• Best Istanbul food tour: Taste of 2 Continents (from $100)
• Top-rated Istanbul city tour: Best of Istanbul in 1 Day (from $60)
• Turkey car hire: Find a low-cost rental on Local Rent (from 28€/day)

Essential Istanbul travel tips

Starting with the basics, here are answers to some of the burning questions I had before my first visit to Turkey (Türkiye) and Istanbul.

1. Avoid visiting in summer

Never underestimate Istanbul’s magnetism. The city pulled in more than 14 million tourists in 2019 (including me), and on my most recent trip in 2022, it felt just as crowded as it had been three years earlier.

I’m willing to bet that most people visit Istanbul during the summer months – June, July and August. This feels a bit hypocritical because I myself have visited Istanbul twice during summer – but because I did, I know what peak season is like.

Istanbul’s climate is quite mild relative to other cities in the region. Temperatures might not go too far beyond 30 degrees Celsius in the shade, but the sun is scorching hot, and it’s very dry.

Aside from the oppressive heat, there are the summer swarms to contend with. (You haven’t really experienced a queue until you’ve stood in line for the Hagia Sophia on an August afternoon.) There are crushing crowds at every landmark during summer, and that gets old pretty quickly. On top of that, accommodation prices are noticeably higher and it can be challenging to get a reservation.

The best time to visit Istanbul is during shoulder season, spring (April to early June) or autumn (mid-September to the start of November). For something different, consider visiting Turkey in winter , when snow covers Istanbul and the city’s charm-o-metre is off the charts.

Take note of the dates for the Holy Month of Ramadan (usually around March-April-May, but it changes every year), which influences the way the city operates.

2. You need at least three days to do Istanbul justice

However many days you give yourself in Istanbul, it will never be enough. You will always feel like you short-changed yourself – there’s always one more neighbourhood to explore, one more ferry trip to take, one more museum to visit, one more restaurant to try…

Three days is the bare minimum for a first-time visitor, but you could easily stay for a week or more.

I recently spent 10 days in Istanbul and found it was a good amount of time to see the city at a relaxed pace. I stayed in the centre for that entire time, though I did have a few ‘down’ days to work. There are dozens of day trip opportunities to break things up if the city gets to be too much.

One of the highlights of Istanbul is the food, so you’d do well to measure the duration of your stay in meals eaten rather than nights slept! Six square meals (and a couple of ‘spread breakfasts’) is ideal for indulging in the best of Istanbul’s food scene .

Plan your time with my 4-day Istanbul itinerary , which covers the must-sees and a few local gems.

3. Save time (and maybe money) by applying for an e-visa

Most nationalities require a tourist visa to enter Türkiye. The country’s e-visa scheme, which launched in 2013, is available to citizens of 40+ countries, including the States, Australia and Canada. (EU citizens do not need a visa.) A standard multiple-entry visa is valid for a stay of up to 90 days with 180 days validity from the date of issue.

Visa on arrival (VOA) is also available, but if you’re flying in, it requires queueing at the airport – and because of the high volume of flights arriving at IST particularly, it can be a long wait. For some nationalities, it’s also more expensive – 10 USD dearer on average compared to the e-visa according to the official fees (though for US passport holders, VOA is cheaper).

Applying for a Turkish e-visa requires completing a simple online form. The website has English-language support and international card payment, but be warned that sometimes it’s a bit glitchy. Both times I’ve applied, my visa has landed in my inbox almost instantly (within the hour). Be sure to print off the A4 piece of paper to show at immigration.

There are copycat sites out there – the official e-visa portal is located here .

I have never been asked for proof of onward travel or a hotel reservation when entering Turkey. If you want one or both for peace of mind without making an actual booking, then I suggest using OneWayFly .

4. Travel insurance is a must

Travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Turkey. Again, you might not be asked to show proof of insurance if you’re travelling on an e-visa (I haven’t), but rules are rules nonetheless.

Istanbul is generally regarded as a safe city, but pickpocketing and crime do occur. More importantly, local health care can be expensive, so it pays to be covered in case of accident or unexpected illness.

For single-policy or annual trip insurance, I recommend HeyMondo. Get 5% off your policy when you sign up using this link .

Read up on these Istanbul safety tips before you go.

5. Use the Havabus (Havaist) shuttle to travel to/from the airport

Update: Since publishing this guide, both Istanbul airports now have an underground metro service. I would definitely look into this option – avoiding traffic could be a real time-saver. Here are more details .

Havabus is a terrific service for travelling between Istanbul’s airports (yes, there is more than one – see the next point) and the downtown area. Shuttles operate 24/7, with departures in both directions every 30-60 minutes.

Tip: At Sabiha Gokcen airport, the shuttle is called Havabus and at Istanbul Airport, it’s called Havaist. I have used both – they operate in much the same way, but they have separate websites for checking the schedule ( here for Havabus and here for Havaist).

When you land in Istanbul, look for the airport bus signage. At Sabiha Gokcen, the bus stand is located on the other side of the car park directly in front of the arrivals terminal. Tickets are purchased using cash on the bus and cost 37.50 TRY (around 2 USD) per person to go to Taksim.

If you prefer a private transfer, airport cars are very well priced (from $27 to/from either airport). Pre-book a door-to-door airport transfer online here .

Eventually the Istanbul metro will extend to IST Airport, but the line has not been completed yet.

6. There are multiple airports in Istanbul – don’t front up at the wrong one!

Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s largest and busiest international airport. Located on the European side in Arnavutkoy, 40km / 45 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square, it is sometimes referred to as ‘Istanbul Grand Airport’ or IGA. If you’re flying with Turkish Airlines or from Europe, there’s a high chance you will be landing at IST.

A second airport, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), receives flights from the Middle East (Emirates, Qatar ) as well as Turkey’s own Pegasus Airlines. It is located on the Asian side, 40km / 60 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square.

A third airport, Ataturk Airport, closed in 2019.

The two airports are 80km apart and it takes at least 75-90 minutes to travel between them. There are shuttle buses, but if you show up at the wrong one for your flight, there’s a good chance you’ll be left high and dry. Triple-check your reservation and make sure you show up at the correct airport.

We got caught out with this on our first trip and rolled up at the wrong airport for our flight back to Australia. Luckily we had come a day early with the intention of staying the night at the airport hotel, so we still made our flight.

You can use Havabus/Havaist to get back to the airport from the city, too. Buses depart from Taksim Square. Take the metro to Taksim and follow the exit towards Taksim Gezi Park. From there, the station is a short walk (you will see the coaches waiting and two ticket booths on the footpath).

Buses to both airports depart from the same area, so again, triple-check you’re hopping on the right one!

7. Pre-book your accommodation

Hotel platform Booking.com doesn’t work in Turkey, so if this is your preferred way to find accommodation, you’ll need to do your browsing and booking before you arrive. (This can be overcome by using a VPN of course.)

Pre-booking is essential for peak-period travel as properties do fill up and prices can skyrocket for last-minute reservations.

I normally use Airbnb in Istanbul for the simple reason that I prefer to stay in local neighbourhoods. Sisli is my district of choice: It has great access to public transport, fantastic local restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe.

8. Card is widely accepted, but it helps to carry cash

Ninety-nine percent of venues and shops in Istanbul accept credit/debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, as well as contactless pay. For small markets and convenience stores, local restaurants, bars and taxis – and when dipping into the wonderful world of Istanbul street food – you’ll need cash.

Many smaller shops in Turkey have a primary limit set on card purchases, meaning you need to meet a certain threshold if you want to pay with a card. In these instances, cash is necessary. Small bills also come in handy for tipping (more on that later).

I suggest withdrawing cash when you first arrive and reserving it for smaller purchases and tips. Check out my Istanbul Travel Budget to learn more about budgeting for your trip and the cost of common items and services.

9. Most ATMs in Turkey charge a fee

ATMs are ubiquitous in Istanbul and most of the time, you’ll see half a dozen different cash machines clustered together. Majority charge a withdrawal fee – up to 5% for some banks – and have a transaction limit of between 3000-5000 TRY.

The only no-fee ATM we could find was Ziraat Bank. It’s red with a distinctive wheatear logo. We also used HalkBank, which did not charge us a withdrawal fee, but did hit us with a 13 TRY fee on Wise.

Banks change their fee structure regularly, so you might need to experiment with a few different machines. If the bank does charge a fee – either a flat fee or a percentage – this should always be displayed on the screen before you finalise the transaction.

On our first trip to Turkey, we had issues with our Australian bank cards not being accepted. This time around, I used my Wise card without any issues. I found the best method for withdrawing cash was to exchange stored currency to Turkish lira within the Wise app, then withdraw lira from the ATM.

Wise is great for international travel and offers very competitive exchange rates – if you don’t yet have an account, you can sign up here .

10. Buying a SIM card in Istanbul is easy, but your options are limited

Open WIFI is not readily accessible in Istanbul, which makes buying a local SIM card more or less a necessity.

If you’re not a Turkish citizen and you don’t hold a residency permit, you’ll find you have limited options when it comes to buying a SIM. Low-cost packages are not available to foreigners and most telcos only offer one standard tourist package.

After doing a bit of research, we settled on a Vodafone SIM. Vodafone only has one option for tourists, which includes 20GB of data, calls and texts, and unlimited access to Whatsapp. We paid 350 TRY (around 19 USD).

The process of buying a SIM is very straightforward and only took us about 15 minutes. You need a hard copy of your passport for registration, so make sure you’re carrying it with you. The tourist SIM automatically expires after 60 days.

11. The public transport system is phenomenal

If you’re considering hiring a car in Turkey to continue your travels beyond the city, make sure you pick it up on the outskirts of the city (possible when using a company such as Local Rent ). The traffic is maniacal and I would not recommend driving in the city centre.

There’s no reason to drive a car in Istanbul, anyway: The public transport system is affordable, easy to use and reliable. Between the metro, trams, buses, ferries, and my personal favourite, dolmus vans, you can get anywhere you need to go with ease. Google Maps works well for planning your route.

Dolmus minivans – Turkey’s answer to a marshrutka – are a fun experience. The name literally means ‘stuffed’ because passengers are squeezed in like sardines. Keep in mind that the entire transport network is very busy and squishy during peak hour, especially in the morning between about 8-9.30am.

When boarding a bus in Istanbul, enter through the front door and tap your IstanbulKart on the electronic reader. If the bus is very full, you can board through the back doors and pass your card down the line for someone at the front to swipe.

12. You need an IstanbulKart transport pass

On our first trip to Istanbul, we walked a lot and relied on buying single-journey metro tickets for longer trips. This time around, we re-learned that only certain ticket machines inside the metro dispense single tickets – and usually they are the ones with an obnoxiously long line of people.

An IstanbulKart is an essential purchase if you plan to use public transport. There are several different cards available – all are valid for the metro, buses, trams and ferries. The so-called Anonymous IstanbulKart is recommended for tourists and is sold at kiosks and newsstands and inside metro stations for 50 TRY (non-refundable). You can use one card for multiple people (up to five people).

A single IstanbulKart fare costs 7.67 TRY. Compared to the 15 TRY for a single-journey ticket, you’ll end up saving almost 50% on every trip.

Note that metrobus fares vary according to the number of stops travelled, but metro fares are flat. Transfers are charged at 5.49 TRY for the first transfer and 4.17 TRY for the second leg.

Find more information about the public transport system here .

13. Use an app for taxis in Istanbul

Istanbul’s cab system is similarly well organised, with three types of taxis at different price points. Yellow taxis are standard and have the lowest fares (6.3 TL/km plus a switch-on fee of 9.8 TL). Turquoise taxis are a premium service and cost 20% more, while black taxis (always luxury vehicles) are twice as expensive as yellow taxis.

Taxis are metered, so it’s generally considered safe for a tourist to hail a cab on the street. However, scams do happen , which is one of the reasons most people (including many locals) prefer to use an app.

After numerous legal battles, Uber re-launched in Turkey in 2021. We used it on several occasions and found the service to be good – short wait times, friendly drivers, and competitive fares (we always paid in cash rather than hooking up our credit card – make sure you are carrying small bills).

Uber alternatives include BiTaksi and Itaksi. The former has POS contactless payment, which is great for paying by card.

14. Tipping is standard

Tipping is customary in Turkey, with 10% being the standard mark for restaurants and bars. For taxi drivers, it’s normal to round up to the nearest lira when paying in cash.

Of course you should only tip if you’re satisfied with the service. We found the quality of customer service in Istanbul to be pretty good across the board, with the exception of one chain cafe where we had a terrible experience.

Tipping is slightly higher for other service providers: 10-20% goes to your tellak or natir at the Turkish baths, and to your hairdresser or barber.

15. Can you drink the tap water in Istanbul?

This is a rhetorical question, because I’m still not sure what the correct answer is! Locals will warn you off tap water while at the same time, the government is running campaigns to encourage more people to drink from the faucet.

From what I understand, Istanbul tap water was undrinkable a decade ago. Infrastructure improvements (and the addition of chlorine to the water stream) have made tap water safe to drink, but many people still prefer to drink bottled water.

If the building you’re staying in has old, rusty pipes, it might be best to give tap water a wide berth. Try a small quantity and see how it sits with you.

16. Don’t flush your loo paper

Istanbul’s pipes are a bit sensitive, thus most restaurants, cafes and hotels request you place toilet tissue in a bin rather than flushing it down the loo. If this is the case, you’ll likely see a sign and a strategically placed wastepaper bin. If in doubt, don’t flush it.

17. If you need a bathroom, head to the nearest mosque

After chasing after non-existent bathrooms in malls and metro stations, I finally cottoned onto this little Istanbul tip: There are public toilets attached to most mosques and in my experience, they are almost always cleaner than public bathrooms elsewhere. Pan toilets are common. Men’s rooms are marked with bay , and women’s with bayan .

Some bathrooms are free to use, while others charge a small (1-2 TRY) fee. Another good reason to carry some small bills or coins with you.

18. Sip ayran to keep your tummy happy

Ayran is a savoury yogurt drink that has its roots in Turkey, but is popular around the region (I developed my ayran addiction several years ago in Bosnia and Herzegovina and have been sipping it ever since). It’s not too creamy, not too watery, and has just a hint of salty effervescence.

Because it’s yogurt, it’s full of good bacteria that do wonders to keep your gut in balance. Just as you might drink lassis in India, you can drink ayran in Istanbul to help ward off any potential food or water-related bugs.

Food poisoning definitely does occur in Istanbul, so watch what you eat and try to consume street food earlier in the day when it’s fresher (especially fish wraps and seafood).

People drink ayran with breakfast, lunch or dinner, and it is served at virtually every restaurant in Istanbul – either in little plastic tubs or from a fountain. Always go for the fresh option when it’s available: It’s light and aerated and extra delicious, presented with a big scoop of yogurty foam on top.

19. Drinking is common, but alcohol is not ubiquitous

The most popular alcoholic drinks in Istanbul are beer, wine and raki , a powerful spirit distilled from grapes or other fruits. Not all restaurants serve alcohol, however, and when you make your way over to the Asian side of Istanbul (which is noticeably more conservative), you’ll find that only a handful of establishments are licensed.

If you prefer to BYO, tekels are Istanbul’s answer to bottle shops. They normally sell a selection of local bottled beers and Turkish wines along with soft drinks, snack foods and cigarettes. It’s illegal to sell alcohol within 100 metres of a mosque or a school, so you won’t find any tekels in some neighbourhoods.

Sales are restricted to certain times of day – you cannot purchase drinks from a bottle shop between 10am and 6am (there are no restrictions on restaurants and bars, though). Alcohol is served as normal during Ramadan.

Excessive drinking is taboo in Turkish culture. Raki, the national drink, is a social beverage consumed slowly with food. It has aniseed notes and is sometimes served over water and ice, which gives it a milky colour.

If you want to try raki, head to a meyhane (meze bar), where alcohol is served with small places of food (also see point #26 on this list). You can order a small 350 mL bottle or a shot (~40 mL). Start slow – some rakis are 80-90 proof.

20. English is widely spoken (sort of)

The number of Turkish people who speak English is somewhere between 15-20% . Of course the rate is much higher in Istanbul, but still, English is not as widespread as you might imagine.

We found a bit of a paradox here: In big shops and phone stores, very little English was spoken, while we encountered staff who spoke perfect English in small restaurants and humble bakeries.

The bottom line is that it’s a bit of a mixed bag, so be prepared to sign and mime your way through some situations. Of course it helps to have some simple Turkish under your belt – knowing a few basic phrases can help to smooth things over.

Istanbul quirks to know before you go

Here are a few unusual quirks that tripped us up in Istanbul.

21. Pharmacies are hard to find

Turkey differentiates between ‘pharmacies’ and ‘cosmetic stores’ in a way that I’ve not noticed in any other country. The latter sells beauty and health products, but there is no pharmacist on staff and nowhere to buy over-the-counter medications or prescription meds.

Chains such as Watsons, Rossmann and Gratis are classified as ‘cosmetics stores’. If you need anything more serious than paracetamol or a revitalising face mask, you need a pharmacy or eczane .

Eczanesi are more difficult to come by. That’s because there are no chain pharmacies in Turkey. All pharmacies are small and owner-operated by a pharmacist – essentially mom-and-pop shops. You won’t find them in malls, only on the streets. Look for the ‘eczanesi’ sign in the window, and when using Google Maps, search for ‘eczane’ rather than ‘pharmacy’.

Pharmacies are worth hunting down if you need them: Many medicines are freely available in Turkey without a prescription, and prices are almost always cheaper than elsewhere in Europe. You do have to ask around, though, as every pharmacy has different stock and different generic brands. My partner spent several days searching for his medication and after asking at a dozen eczanesi, he finally found what he was looking for at a quarter of the price it is in Georgia.

22. Hand cologne is a thing

Istanbulites were sanitising their hands long before it was cool. The first time we had our hands doused in hand cologne by a friendly waiter, we assumed it was hand sanitiser – but no, this tradition far predates the pandemic.

Kolonya harks back to the days of the Ottoman Empire when a pleasant smelling liquid was sprinkled on guests’ hands as they would enter or exit private homes, hotels or hospitals. Today it’s widely used in restaurants after you pay the check. Some places have a little bottle on the table next to the salt and pepper shakers.

Scented with jasmine, lemon, rosewater or dark spice, a dash of hand cologne leaves your paws smelling fragrant fresh. Unlike hand gel, kolonya is very thin and watery – a little bit goes a long way. And because it’s ethanol-based, it does act as a disinfectant as well.

23. Don’t be surprised if you get asked for your phone number

Grocery stores, cosmetic stores, clothing shops and pharmacies alike seem to ask customers for a local phone number – I assume for marketing purposes rather than to track or register anything. This happened to us on a daily basis, and the first few times, the language barrier made it very confusing.

If you don’t have a local SIM (and even if you do), you can always say no and the cashier will copy a random number off the back of an old receipt.

24. Don’t stay too close to a mosque if you like to sleep in

Istanbul has its own backing track, and that is the sound of the call to prayer ( ezan ). The rumble of minarets whispering to each other is incredibly stirring – but your opinion might be slightly different if you happen to be laying your head near a mosque’s speakerbox every night.

The call to prayer happens five times a day, starting with the pre-dawn İmsak ( Fajr ), which reverberates around the city some time between 4-6am depending on the time of year. In July, it can be as early as 3.30am, with a second Sunrise ( Güneş ) call around 2 hours later.

With well over 3,000 mosques, you’ll more than likely have at least one or two nearby. If you’re a light sleeper, it’s worth scoping out the local mosques and choosing accommodation that’s further than earshot from the nearest minaret.

25. Don’t linger too long at a lokanta

Lokanta are a specific type of Turkish restaurant that serve casual, home-style meals to workers and tradesmen. Every neighbourhood has them, and they are a terrific place to sample salt-of-the-earth Turkish cuisine and soak up a bit of local culture at the same time.

When you sit down at a lokanta, a waiter will come to take your order within seconds. Some are cafeteria style, others are a-la-carte. At the end of the meal, empty plates are spirited away and the table sprayed and wiped just as fast as the food came out. Usually you settle the bill at a cash desk rather than requesting a written check.

It’s easy to overstay your welcome at this type of establishment, where the imperative is to turn tables as quickly as possible. They are perfect when you need a quick bite, but if you want a leisurely meal, choose a different sort of restaurant. Sidewalk meyhanes , for example, are the complete opposite. Serving meze and raki, they are designed for long, lingering lunches.

26. Don’t assume those meze plates are free

It’s normal for wait staff at a meyhane to present you with an attractive tray of small plates before they take your order. Turkish meze includes grilled eggplant with yogurt, fava beans, artichoke, and many, many more delicious bites designed for sharing over a bottle of raki.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming these small side salads are free – they are not. (Sides of chopped onion, herbs and chilli served in smaller silver dishes with kebab, on the other hand, are usually included in the price.)

27. Brace yourself for lots of uphill walking

They don’t call Istanbul the ‘City on Seven Hills’ for nothing. After a few days walking the streets, you might think the ‘city of seven million hills’ is a more apt nickname.

Constantinople was laid out in the image of Rome, which was of course built over a septet of hills. On the ground, it feels like all of Istanbul is rippled, with steep streets and vertiginous staircases at almost every turn. There are many advantages to this city plan, the delightfully sloped houses in Balat for one, and the spectacular city views you get from the higher elevations for another.

Comfy shoes and a whole lot of patience are absolutely essential when exploring Istanbul on foot, where it can literally feel like an uphill battle to get from one place to the next.

There are ways to avoid the slog, including using the funicular railways: Taksim-Kabatas and the historic Tunel that links Karakoy and Beyoglu. The latter is the world’s second-oldest subterranean rail line (after the London Underground) and the oldest still-operating underground funicular in Europe.

Istanbul travel tips to feel like a local

While it takes more than a three or four-day stay to feel like a fully fledged Istanbulite, here are a few little tricks to help you fit in.

28. Dress modestly to blend in

Istanbul is a metropolis through and through, with a liberal dress code to match. Almost anything goes, but I still recommend you cover up for comfort and to fit in with the crowd. Women should try to avoid plunging necklines, revealing fabrics, and very short hemlines.

There are noticeable differences between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, with more modest dress and more hijabs worn in Uskudar compared to Eminonu, for example. Generally speaking, Turkey gets more conservative the further east you go, and this holds true even in the city centre. Keep it in mind if you’re travelling around the country.

One place you definitely must observe the dress code is mosques, where covered arms (to the elbow for men or the wrist for women) and legs (down to the ankles) is required. Women must also cover their hair. Majority of mosques have pull-over muumuus that you can borrow (for free) at the door to fully cover up. Note that there are no dress requirements for young kids.

It’s obligatory to remove your shoes when entering a mosque, so on days when you’re sightseeing, wear kicks that you can easily slip off and on. And if you prefer not to go barefoot, carry a pair of ankle socks in the bottom of your bag. Some mosques provide plastic bags, otherwise you can just leave your shoes outside.

29. Never skip breakfast…

Breakfast is certainly the most important meal of the day in Turkey. Sunday breakfast is the queen of the morning meals, when the famous kahvalti tabagi ‘spread breakfast’ comes into its own.

On a Sunday, some Istanbulites spend the better part of the day between mid-morning and late afternoon gathered around the breakfast table with friends or family, noshing on an extravagant spread of cheeses, olives, cut vegetables and eggs served with supple somun bread. Kahvalti is a daily occurrence in places like Besiktast ‘Breakfast Street’ and in gourmet cafes such as Van Kahvalti.

If you’re on a tight timeline or a budget, breakfast doesn’t have to be drawn-out or expensive: There are faster and more affordable options, such as a pick-and-choose breakfast at Cakmak Kahvalti Salonu, where small plates range from 2-8 TRY each. 

Borekcisi (borek bakeries) serve portions of steaming hot filled pastry and chai, or for a simple breakfast snack on the go, grab a simit bagel from a street vendor.

30. …But don’t order coffee first thing

Kahvalti means ‘before coffee’. Breakfast is traditionally accompanied by cay , strong black tea, rather than Turkish coffee. It’s normal to down half a dozen glasses of tea in a single sitting (though two or three is usually enough). Most sit-down kahvalti breakfasts come with two pots of tea.

If you want to do things like a local, save your Türk kahvesi for after lunch and start your morning with cay sade – strong and bitter tea with no sugar – instead.

31. Don’t be afraid to haggle at the bazaar

Haggling is customary and expected at markets in Istanbul and in other commercial settings. You’ll find that most items at the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar have a price tag, but for those that don’t (and even for those that do), it’s quite normal to bargain for a better price. This is especially true if you’re buying more than one of something or multiple items from the same vendor. Rule of thumb is to aim for a 35-50% discount on the sticker price.

There are huge mark-ups at the Grand Bazaar, which seems to be almost exclusively the domain of tourists these days. There are local markets and street markets all over Istanbul where you’ll have a better chance of striking gold for a fair figure. Markets are held on different days of the week and following a rotating schedule, so you can always find something on. Popular food and flea markets take place in Karakoy (Tuesdays), Ortakoy (Thursdays), Uskudar (Fridays), and Besiktas (Saturdays).

If you do decide to brave the Grand Bazaar or another historic market in Istanbul, the best advice I’ve heard is to do your shopping in the mid-morning. It’s more likely that vendors have already made a few sales and met their daily commission targets, so there will be less pressure on you.

32. Don’t fall for the ‘shoe cleaner trick’

This one got us good.

One early morning we were walking down an alleyway in Besiktas when we heard a clack on the cobbles and noticed that someone had dropped a wooden shoe brush. Being the saint he is, my partner rushed to pick it up without a second thought and handed it back to the shoe cleaner whose caddy it had tumbled from.

Expressing his profound thanks, the guy promptly took a seat on the curb at our feet and insisted on shaking my husband’s hand in gratitude. That’s when he grabbed him by the wrist in a monkey grip and tried to pull him down for a coerced shoe cleaning. I should mention that he was wearing joggers, not leather shoes!

Neither of us were aware of this common scam at the time, so we thought the whole situation was quite hilarious. The man had a gorgeous smile and was very friendly – we actually gave him credit for this ingenious trick.

Only later when we heard about the scam did we realise what had (almost) happened to us. Ross managed to talk his way out of it, dirty shoes still intact.

We were not mad in the slightest, but it could have been a different story had we actually been talked into handing over cash. Keep an eye out for this trick, especially in touristy areas.

33. Embrace cat culture

There are up to a million cats and kittens living on the streets of Istanbul. Every cafe is a cat cafe, and every corner has its own posse of cute pusses. A picture-perfect clowder of cats lounging on fence posts and chairs like the princes and princesses they are awaits you at every turn.

Similar to street dogs in Georgia , the cats of Istanbul are regarded as community pets rather than strays and are fed and cared for by the locals. For the most part, they don’t bother people and keep to themselves. We definitely encountered a few fiercer felines on our travels – it’s pretty obvious which cats want pats and which ones need their personal space. They will let you know with a dagger stare or a hiss.

Cat culture can be traced back to Ottoman times, when tabbys helped to quash the city’s mice population. In this respect, cats are an inseparable part of the city’s social fabric.

If you’re an animal lover, it can be distressing to see so many cats living rough, especially when they’re not in the best shape. (Though I must say that every cat I met in Istanbul was plump and rosy.) It helps to know that Istanbul (and all of Turkey) has a no-kill, no capture policy.

34. Brush up on your basic hammam etiquette

Partaking in a traditional Turkish bath is a must-do in Istanbul. The hammams have aeons of history and custom attached to them – there are definite dos and don’ts, just as there are with the sulfur baths in Tbilisi . It helps to know how to handle things once the towels come out, lest you embarrass yourself.

Regarding nakedness, men normally strip down to nothing while women wear undies (single-use pairs are supplied by most bathhouses) then don a pestemal towel, which stays wrapped around you for the duration of your stay.

The Turkish-style skin peel/massage ( kese ) can be quite rough on the skin and muscles. The therapist, known as a natir or tellak , will always be of the same gender. It’s customary to tip them 10-20% after your treatment.

For more Turkish hammam hints, see this guide .

More helpful Istanbul tips to make the most of your visit

Finally, here are a handful of practical tips for planning your itinerary and getting the most out of your time in Istanbul.

35. Organise your Istanbul itinerary by neighbourhood/district

Istanbul has 39 districts, each with its own character and appeal. From the Instagrammable houses and antique shops in Balat, to the trendy cafes in Cihangir, the rambunctious fish market in Uskudar to the Ottoman-era mansions in Arnavutkoy , every corner of the city has something incredible up its sleeve.

A great way to organise your time in Istanbul is by planning your movements around the different neighbourhoods. Each one is quite discreet, so you can knock out a to-do list before moving onto the next.

Some neighbourhoods naturally pair together thanks to geography and transport logistics: Galata and Karakoy, Fener and Balat, Uskudar and Kadikoy, Cihangir and Cukurcuma. See my Istanbul 4-day itinerary for more ideas on how to plan your visit by district.

38. Consider signing up for a food tour

One thing every Istanbul neighbourhood has in common is its never-ending supply of cafes, restaurants and street food vendors. One of the best ways to discover the city – especially if you’re on a tight timeline – is by signing up for a food tour.

I was lucky enough to join Culinary Backstreets’ Born on the Bosphorus tour during my most recent visit to Istanbul. It was one of the highlights of my trip – not only because of the delicious food, but mainly thanks to our incredible guide, Benoit, who over the course of a full day taught me so much about Istanbul’s food and beyond.

The popular Taste of Two Continents tour, with 11 food stops and a Bosphorus ferry crossing, is a good alternative if you’re looking for a half-day experience.

37. Get an early start to beat the crowds

This is particularly important in summer, when the touristy parts of the city get extremely crowded. One of the best ways to avoid long waits at landmarks such as Galata Tower is by waking up early and arriving as doors open.

The metro starts running at 6am – and from Friday evening to Sunday morning public transport operates 24/7 – so there’s no excuse not to get out in the early AM.

38. Invest in a Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass

There is a gamut of different tourist cards and passes available for Istanbul. The 5-day Istanbul Museum Pass or the 2-7 day E-Pass is one of the best investments you can make if you plan on doing the rounds through the city’s best museums and big attractions.

The digital pass gives you skip-the-queue access to 10 of the city’s finest cultural institutions, including Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace and the Harem, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and the Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum.

Available to purchase online before you arrive, it uses a simple QR code system. Just show your pass on your mobile – no need to print anything.

Only buy the pass if it makes sense for you, though: You have to visit multiple attractions for it to pay off, though the other perks – particularly the ability to skip the ticket line – are invaluable in a sense.

Purchase the official Istanbul E-Pass here via Viator .

39. Check prayer times in advance

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are both active mosques, open to visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Except during prayer times, that is.

All of Istanbul’s mosques temporarily close to non-Muslim visitors five times a day for a period of about 90 minutes. For the duration of the Congregational Prayers, no tourists are permitted to enter.

It’s imperative to check prayer times in advance. If you show up while prayers are on, you will be met with a long wait outside. Times are signposted at the bigger mosques or you can check online .

The queue to enter the Hagia Sophia gets very long towards the end of the prayer session. The best time to visit is 30-40 minutes before the mosque is scheduled to close. Don’t try to visit on Fridays when the Jumu’ah prayer takes place – this is one of the busiest times, and it’s always crowded and chaotic.

If your Istanbul visit coincides with Ramadan or another Islamic holiday, prayer times might be different and mosques might be closed for longer periods during the day.

40. Skip the Bosphorus cruise – take advantage of local ferries instead

Some people opt to experience the Bosphorus on board a yacht at sunset with champagne and nibbles. If your budget won’t stretch that far, or you just prefer a local experience, then a ride on the public ferry offers the same ambiance and water views for a fraction of the price.

Hundreds of ferries criss-cross the strait, linking Istanbul’s Asian and European sides. The most scenic ferry routes include Besiktas to Kadikoy, Karakoy to Uskudar, and Karakoy to Kadikoy. Some boats go up the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea, and others head in the opposite direction towards the Princes’ Islands.

Bring a simit bagel to snack on (and to lure seagulls in for photos), or order a tulip-shaped glass of tea from one of the roving vendors on board.

41. Don’t miss the sunset from Galata Bridge

There is only one way to end a day in Istanbul in my opinion, and that’s by watching the sun go down from Galata Bridge. It might be touristy as heck, but there’s a good reason why this is such a popular spot. Views of the glittering water and intertwining boats, mosque minarets silhouetted against a dusky blue sky framed by fishermen casting their lines off the edge of the bridge, are absolute gold.

I recommend finding a spot to stand on the western side of the bridge, above the area where the Karakoy ferry docks. Aim to arrive about an hour before sunset for the best light.

For the perfect Istanbul photo, wait patiently for the garbage truck to come down the street and dump its load in the bins near the ferry terminal – this sends the seagulls into a frenzy, and they fill the skies with their spinning and diving for a good 15 minutes.

42. ‘Authentic’ Whirling Dervish ceremonies still exist – here’s how to find one

Speaking of Istanbul must-dos: A Whirling Dervish show is a bucket-list item for many. I was warned that all Mevlevi Sema ceremonies had become commercialised and ‘spoiled’ by tourists to the point where they just weren’t worth pursuing any more. So I made it my mission to find a real, ‘authentic’ Sema ritual in Istanbul, and I’m happy to say that I eventually did.

Get all the details about the best Whirling Dervish ceremony in Istanbul in this guide .

Where to stay in Istanbul

Budget: Hostel Le Banc (⭐ 9.5) – This popular hostel in Beyoglu is footsteps from the Galata Tower and Sishane metro station. It features air-conditioned rooms (private doubles and mixed/all-female 4 and 10-bed dorms), a shared lounge and a terrace.

Mid-range: 38 Hotel (⭐ 8.6) – Located in Sisli, close to Osmanbey metro station, this hotel has compact, tidy double rooms and suites.

Boutique: Hotel Empress Zoe (⭐ 9.2) – This gorgeous boutique hotel is decorated with heritage flourishes and boasts hammam-like ensuites and private internal terraces. The location in Fatih, minutes from Sultan Ahmet Mosque and the Blue Mosque, is very central yet the hotel still feels secluded.

Luxury: Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (⭐ 9.5) – Located in Beyoglu close to Galata Tower, this boutique-luxury hotel offers high-end suites with private courtyards and terraces. The building, an old Italian Dominican school with remnants of the 13th-century Galata walls inside its courtyard, is dripping with history.

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Istanbul travel resources

• 1-4 day Istanbul itinerary
• Istanbul travel budget
• The ultimate guide to eating out in Istanbul
• Tips for visiting Galata Tower for Istanbul city views
• The best Whirling Dervishes ceremony in Istanbul
• Guide to Arnavutkoy, Istanbul’s most beautiful district
• The best places to visit in Turkey
• Turkey in winter: Where to go plus travel tips

12 Comments

Detailed tips are super helpful, especially about the best time to visit and the ins and outs of public transport.

Thank you. Right now in Turkey with wife and kids. Following your steps and recommendations. Just one thing: booking asked for a price but the hotel converted the price to Liras and charged me much more for exactly the same booking and service! Thank you again,

I love your travel blog! Your vivid descriptions and stunning photographs make me feel like I’m right there with you. It’s inspiring to see someone embracing adventure and exploring new cultures. Keep the travel stories coming!

Excellent article and links for further information. I am planning a trip to Turkey in September with my wife and your articles a great start and support. Great job! Alejandro

This is very, very helpful. Thank you so much.

Early in your article you indicated that Booking.com does not work in Turkey, yet in the section, entitled “Turkey Essentials”, you direct us to that site for Hotels. Maybe I am missing something, but that appears to be contradictory. I found the article very helpful…..Thanks for the information.

Hi JB – I still recommend using Booking, only you have to reserve from outside of Turkey ie. before you arrive.

Thanks so much, this was really helpful. Lots of good to know stuff that I didn’t find mentioned elsewhere

it was very helpful thank you

Ha, I made the same mistake again and didn’t read through your info thoroughly. In Georgia, I paid more than I needed to for a SIM at the airport and this time, I could have saved a few lira on a bank withdrawal in Istanbul.

Already appreciating the smiles and kindness in Istanbul very much.

Love your work Emily.

Perhaps it’s different for Australian passport holders, but I found the VOA to be a better deal than the eVisa for Americans. Our eVisas were fast and easy to get, but cost $50 plus a 2 dollar service fee. We got them before traveling to Turkey last year, but went twice to make them a better value. This past month we got VOA (no lines) and paid 25 euros each. Both are valid for 6 months. Plus you get a little visa stamp in your passport!

Thanks Owen for the info – you’re right, VOA is more affordable for US passport holders, but not for us Aussies unfortunately! I would have loved a visa stamp. I’ll update that now. Cheers!

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Istanbul Travel Tips: 27 Essential things to know before visiting Istanbul

Planning a trip to Istanbul isn’t that straightforward as there are quite a few things you need to know before visiting Istanbul.

You might be wondering whether you need a visa, what are the best places to stay, how to get around the city, how to save money, or what are the common scams to watch out for.

All your questions will be answered in this blog post where I’ll share my top Istanbul travel tips for first-time visitors and things I wished I’d known before visiting.

So without further ado, here are 27 essential travel tips for Istanbul.

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Read more about Turkey:

• How to spend 4 days in Istanbul
• Top 20 free attractions in Istanbul
• 16 Best photography spots in Istanbul
• How to spend 7 days in Turkey
• Best ways to get from Istanbul to Ephesus
• How to book a Turkey car rental

Table of Contents

Istanbul Travel Tips for planning your trip

1. you need at least 3 or 4 days in istanbul.

Istanbul is a huge city with so many things to do. This is why you need a minimum of 3 or 4 days for a proper introduction to the city and to hit all the main tourist attractions.

If you need help planning your itinerary, make sure to read my guide on how to spend 4 days in Istanbul .

Related post: Istanbul itinerary for 4 days

2. Book your hotel in advance

One of the most important Istanbul travel tips is to book your hotel in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak season (June to August).

Most of the nicer hotels are usually sold out several weeks or even months in advance. Booking in advance also means that you’ll benefit from cheaper rates.

Some of the best places to stay in Istanbul include Tomtom Suites , World House Boutique Hotel , and Hostel Le Banc .

3. Booking.com is banned in Turkey

If you use booking.com to book your accommodation, I highly recommend doing so before you land in the country since it’s banned in Turkey.

Although you can still access the website to manage your bookings, you won’t be able to book a Turkish hotel while you’re in Turkey.

If you want to book hotels on booking.com while you’re in Turkey, I recommend getting a VPN. Alternatively, you can download the Opera browser on your phone and use their free integrated VPN.

4. Stay outside of Sultanahmet if you want a quiet night’s sleep

Sultanahmet is the most popular place to stay in Istanbul since this is where all the main tourist attractions are located.

But what you probably don’t know is that it can be very loud at night and also quite expensive compared to other neighborhoods.

I learned this the hard way during my recent trip to Istanbul. The hotel I initially stayed at was located along a street flanked by rows of restaurants that kept playing music until 2 a.m!

If you absolutely want to stay in Sultanahmet, Camelot Apartment is located on a rather quiet street, not too far from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Otherwise, I recommend staying in either Beyoglu or Karakoy if you want some peace and quiet.

5. You probably need a visa to visit Turkey

One of the most important travel tips for Istanbul is to check whether you need a visa or not. You can do so on the official website here .

There are also third-party websites where you can apply for a visa but these are usually more expensive as they charge an additional fee on top of the visa fee.

Most travelers, including US citizens, need to apply for an e-visa. The visa is valid for a period of 30 to 90 days, depending on your nationality.

UK citizens, for example, are exempt from a visa while others can get a visa for free.

When applying for an e-visa on the official website , click on “new application” and then select your country.

The cost of the e-visa and duration of stay will depend on the country you’re from.

After completing the application process, it can take a few minutes up to 24 hours before the visa is sent by email.

6. When to visit Istanbul

The best time to visit Istanbul will depend on what you want out of your trip. Below is a quick overview of the different seasons and what to expect for each.

Spring :  April to May – Mild temperature, fewer crowds, and cheaper prices. The annual tulip festival takes place in April.

Summer : June to August – Very hot and humid with temperatures rising above 30 degrees Celsius. Huge crowds, hotel and tour prices are much higher.

Fall/autumn : September to November – The temperature starts to drop, fewer crowds, and cheaper hotel rates.

Winter : December to March – Cold weather with the occasional snowfall but it’s considerably less cold than other European destinations.

Istanbul Travel Tips to skip the crowds

7. buy the istanbul museum pass.

The Istanbul Museum Pass gives you access to 10 museums in Istanbul like the Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene, Istanbul Archeological museum, and more.

The pass is valid for 5 consecutive days and is perfect for those who want to visit a lot of museums, and at the same time, skip the long ticket lines.

Another option is to buy an Istanbul E-Pass which includes skip-the-line tickets and guided tours for over 40 attractions in Istanbul. The pass is available for 2, 3, 5, or 7 days and is perfect for those who want to see as many attractions as possible while saving money.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE ISTANBUL E-PASS

Note : I only recommend buying the museum pass under certain circumstances. For instance, if you’re planning to visit 5 museums and the total cost of the individual tickets exceeds the cost of the museum pass, then it makes more sense to get the museum pass.

Otherwise, if you’re visiting one or two museums only, you’re better off buying individual tickets. Just remember that the pass can only be used once at each attraction.

8. Buy attraction tickets online

For those who don’t plan to purchase the Istanbul Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass but still want to avoid the long ticket lines, then I recommend booking your attraction tickets online.

You can book tickets to most museums and attractions on the Government website here .

9. Plan your visit outside of the peak season

The peak season in Istanbul, and Turkey in general, is during the summer months of June to August and thus attracts hordes of tourists.

Popular attractions like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are absolutely packed with tourists during this time of the year.

If you can only come to Istanbul during the peak season, I highly recommend visiting these attractions early in the morning, at least before 8 a.m to avoid the long lines.

As more tourists visit Istanbul in summer, hotel rates also increase considerably as well as tour prices.

Another thing to note is that there are also more crowds during popular Turkish holidays like Kurban Bayrami and Ramadan Bayrami. The date changes every year so make sure to do a quick Google search before your trip.

So, if you want to avoid the crowds and get cheaper prices, I recommend visiting during the shoulder season – April/May or September/October.

Istanbul Travel Tips for getting around

10. the bus is the best and cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center.

Istanbul has two airports – Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.

One of the best Istanbul tips for tourists, more specifically for those traveling on a budget, is to take the Havaist bus (from Istanbul Airport) or Havabus (from Sabiha Gokcen Airport).

It’s definitely the best and cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center. Plus, the buses are very spacious and comfortable.

The bus operates 24/7 and the journey from the airport to the city center takes on average 1-2 hours, depending on where you’re staying. You can buy tickets online or directly at the airport.

If you don’t want to take the bus or are traveling with a group, then I recommend booking a private airport transfer .

11. Download apps like BiTaksi or Uber

If you don’t want to take the bus, be sure to download ride-sharing apps like Uber or BiTaksi. The fares will be much cheaper than regular taxis, plus you can see beforehand how much the journey costs, thus avoiding getting ripped off.

12. Buy an Istanbul Kart

If you’re planning to get around a lot by public transportation, it’s a good idea to buy an Istanbul kart. It costs about 60 TL and you can top up with the amount needed.

The main reason why I recommend getting the Istanbul kart is that the fares are much cheaper with the card (about 50% cheaper) compared to buying a single ticket. You’ll also save time by not having to buy tickets every single time.

A single fare with the Istanbul Kart costs about 10 TL and the good news is that the fare gets cheaper the more you use the card.

The card can be used by up to 5 people, so there’s no need to buy individual cards for each traveler in your group.

You can buy the Istanbul kart at the airport or at most metro stations in the city center and use it on the bus, metro, tram, and ferry.

Alternatively, you can buy this Istanbul transport card that’s pre-loaded with up to 20 rides. You can either pick it up at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel.

Another thing to know before visiting Istanbul is that you can also use the Istanbul Kart to pay for public toilets around the city and inside the metro stations. The toilet fee is about 2 TL.

13. Traffic in Istanbul can be very hectic

One thing to know about Istanbul is that the traffic can be very hectic. One of the most important travel tips for Istanbul is to avoid taking the bus during peak hours, especially in the afternoon.

For instance, I once took the bus at around 5 p.m from Ortakoy to Beyoglu, and what was supposed to be a 40-minute journey ended up lasting 1.5 hours!

The traffic was so bad that I even had to get off the bus and walk back to my hotel. I’m pretty sure I arrived before the bus!

So do yourself a favor by taking the metro instead if you don’t want to get stuck in traffic during peak hours.

14. Don’t rent a car in Istanbul

As mentioned above, traffic can be very hectic which is why it’s not recommended to rent a car in Istanbul unless you plan to leave the city and start a road trip around the country.

Public transportation in Istanbul is cheap, convenient, and reliable so there’s no point in spending extra cash on car rental.

Istanbul Travel Tips to help you save money

15. there are many free things to do in istanbul.

For those traveling on a budget, you’ll be pleased to know that there are many free things to do in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and all other Istanbul mosques are completely free to visit.

Visiting the Grand Bazaar (which is an experience in itself) or exploring the local neighborhoods like Balat, Fener, and Kadikoy also doesn’t cost a cent.

Make sure to read my guide to 20 things to do in Istanbul for free for more things to do.

Related post: What to do in Istanbul for free

16. Take the local ferry instead of a Bosphorus tour

One of the most popular things to do is to take a Bosphorus tour. It costs anywhere from €10 for a 90-minute sightseeing tour up to €55 for a luxury sunset cruise including dinner .

But if you’re on a budget, you can just hop on the local ferry from Europe to Asia. A single ticket costs only about 10 TL which is a bargain.

One thing to note is that the ferry ride will be shorter but you’ll still be able to admire some of the major landmarks in the city.

17. You can use toilets at the mosques for free

If you need to use the toilet, you can simply go to any mosque and use the toilets there for free. They are generally well-maintained and clean.

Otherwise, you can use the public toilets at the metro stations or around the city for about 2 TL. As mentioned above, you can pay the toilet fee with your Istanbul Kart if you don’t have any small change.

Travel Tips for Istanbul for a safe trip

18. take note of emergency phone numbers.

Travel is sometimes unpredictable which is why it’s always a good idea to have local emergency phone numbers on hand. Below are some of the most important ones:

Police: 155

Ambulance: 112

19. Safety in Istanbul

Istanbul is a relatively safe destination even for solo female travelers. I traveled to Istanbul solo and from my personal experience, I didn’t feel unsafe while walking alone nor did I receive any unwanted attention.

Security is pretty tight with lots of police officers especially around Sultanahmet and Taksim so you don’t have to worry about safety issues.

That said, petty crimes like pickpocketing sometimes happen, so always be aware of your surroundings and avoid flashing any expensive objects.

You should also watch out for scams which brings me to my next tip for visiting Istanbul.

20. Watch out for common scams

Like in most big cities, you need to be aware of common scams that mainly target tourists.

The most popular one is the shoe shiner. The person will pretend to drop his brush and when you pick it up, he will then proceed to shine your shoes which obviously isn’t free.

There’s also another scam where someone will approach you and invite you for a drink. You’ll then end up being forced to pay an exorbitant bill.

In order to prepare yourself before your trip, I recommend reading  this article  about the most common scams in Istanbul.

Other Helpful Istanbul Tips for Tourists

21. buy a local sim card.

The best way to stay connected, especially if you need to use Google Maps to navigate the city, is to buy a local sim card.

There are three major internet providers in Turkey, namely Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom. All three are quite similar but it is said that Turkcell has the best coverage.

I recommend buying your sim card when you get to the city center since those at the airport are slightly more expensive.

I bought a Turkcell tourist sim card which came with 20 GB of data and 200 minutes of local call, valid for 30 days. You just need to bring your passport and it takes only a few minutes for the sim card to be activated.

Alternatively, you can buy a pocket wifi (with unlimited internet valid for 14 days) and have it delivered directly to your hotel. It’s slightly more expensive but can connect up to 10 mobile phones at a time.

Note : If you need internet as soon as you land in Turkey, you can use the airport wifi for free. Just input your local phone number and after receiving a one-time password, you’ll be able to connect to the wifi.

22. There are lots of steep hills

One thing to know about Istanbul is that it’s also known as the “City on the Seven Hills” so don’t be surprised if you come across a lot of steep hills.

The streets along Beyoglu, Balat, and Galata Tower are among the steepest in Istanbul and you’ll be sweating buckets if you’re not dressed in light clothing. Make sure to also carry plenty of water and to wear comfy shoes.

23. Mosque Etiquette

Although you can wear any type of clothes you like in Türkiye, you need to dress more conservatively when visiting the mosques.

For women, this means covering their shoulders and knees and wearing a head scarf. Men, on the other hand, need to wear long pants.

You also need to take off your shoes before entering the mosques.

24. Check prayer times before visiting mosques

One thing to know before visiting Istanbul is that you can only visit the mosques outside of prayer times. Make sure to check the prayer times on this website before visiting.

25. Learn some basic Turkish words

Although most Turkish people can speak English, I always do my best to learn a few basic words and phrases in the local language when traveling to a new country.

A little goes a long way and I can guarantee that you’ll put a smile on the Turkish people’s faces if you at least try to speak a few words in the local language.

Below are some useful Turkish words to know:

Hello : Merhaba

Thank you : Teşekkür ederim or Teşekkürler

Please : Lütfen

Excuse me : Afedersiniz (I’ve also heard people say “pardon”)

How much : Ne kadar

26. Drinking tap water in Istanbul

Although it’s considered safe to drink tap water in Istanbul, most locals might tell you the opposite due to the old rusty pipes and water tanks.

I did drink the tap water during my first few days in Istanbul and while it didn’t make me sick, I didn’t really like the taste.

If you don’t want to drink tap water, I recommend buying the 5 L water bottles. They are much cheaper and you can also reduce your plastic consumption since you won’t need to buy multiple water bottles.

27. Plug type

The plugs and sockets in Turkey are of type C and F with a voltage of 220 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. You’ll probably need a travel adapter if you’re coming from a non-European country.

There you have it – 27 important things to know before traveling to Istanbul. If you have any additional Istanbul travel tips to share, please comment below.

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Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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Great post! I got enough details and info for my upcoming trip to Istanbul

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50 Essential Istanbul Travel Tips for Your First Visit to the ‘Bul

I adore Istanbul. Turkey was the third country I ever visited (after Mexico and Italy), and I keep returning over and over. But it’s a complicated city for first-time visitors to grapple with. It’s compact yet sprawling. It’s inexpensive yet luxurious. Even though I’m a dog person, I love that it’s a cat city. Istanbul is, to put it succinctly, complex.

So to make it easier for you, we’ve compiled our top fifty Istanbul travel tips. We cover everything from Istanbul safety to cuisine to mosque etiquette. Our hope is that you have as smooth a first trip to Istanbul as possible, so that you, too, want to return over and over again.

Want to save this post for later? Pin it to save!

Essential Istanbul Travel Tips

I’ve tried to put these in a somewhat logical order, but when writing about a topic this big, things can get out of hand. Basically, I’ve tried to cover every piece of Istanbul travel advice I’d want to tell someone if they’d never set foot in the country before, and I hope the order makes as much sense as can be expected. 

Don’t Show Up without a Visa

Once upon a time (in 2011), many visitors could show up to Attaturk airport sans visa, pay approximately $20 USD, and voila, they’d get a (pretty cool looking) visa stamp put in their passports.

Well, those days are long gone. Today, visitors from most countries need to apply for an eVisa on their website before getting here. 

We cover this process more in-depth in our guide to planning a trip to Turkey , but don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Where to Stay in Istanbul?

You are supposed to have your accommodation information with you when you arrive in Turkey, and the border police may or may not ask you for it when you get here. If they do ask you for it, make sure to have it printed out or downloaded in your phone, since you may not have internet access when you first get here. 

On my last trip to Istanbul from Sofia , I was asked AND our international roaming plans weren’t working. This was at 4 AM. #nightmare  

So, do show up to Istanbul with accommodations prepared. But where to stay?

First, you need to decide which neighborhood in Istanbul you want to stay in. Many first-time visitors to Istanbul stay in Sultanahmet, but I prefer getting out to Beyoglu for a less touristy visit. 

If you want to dig into all our Istanbul neighborhood recommendations, we an entire Istanbul neighborhood hotel guide.  However, if you don’t want to dig through all of that, here are our top three picks (one for each budget category):

• Budget:  A room in a hostel, usually $5-12 USD per night for a dorm bed or under $40 for a double.
• Mid-range:  Around $40-80
• Luxury : Around $100 per night or more

Budget:  For a great budget-friendly hotel, you can stay in single or double rooms at the  Dreamers B&B . Colorful and cozy, the B&B boasts a fabulous location in Beyoglu, less than a kilometer from Taksim Square. You can explore all of Beyoglu from here, and then head to Sultanahmet when you’re ready to see the old city. 

>> Check the pricing, reviews, and availability here. <<

Mid-Range:  For an affordable, yet trendy boutique hotel, we recommend  Peradays . It’s perfect for all Istanbul visitors, from first-timers to Istanbul veterans. The lofted rooms are generously large, so you can spread out and relax after a long day of sightseeing. They also have two cats that live here, Pera and Daisy, which you’ll be happy to greet after counting cats all day when out in the city. 

Luxury:  Istanbul has no shortage of fabulous hotels, but we love   Hammamhane , a boutique apartment-hotel that was originally a hammam, and the sister hotel of Peradays. Built in a historic hammam (Turkish bath), the suites are spacious and luxurious. Located in the heart of Cukurcuma, the antique district, Hammamhane is within walking distance to art galleries, design stores, antique shops, and chic cafés. 

Still can’t decide? Check out our guide to the  best Istanbul neighborhoods and hotels.

When is the Best Time to Visit Istanbul?

My favorite time to visit Istanbul is in May and June when it’s not too hot yet. In May, you even get to avoid the summer vacation crowds (meaning there are way fewer kids and families visiting). 

If you want to avoid crowds, I love visiting Istanbul in winter.  Here’s an overview of Istanbul weather in January to help you get an idea of what to expect if you come in winter. 

Istanbul is such a great city that I’m confident you’ll have a great time no matter when you come. The only times I would try to avoid it is July and August when the heat is simply sweltering. 

What to Pack for Istanbul

We are in the process of creating packing lists to help you know what to pack for Turkey, but here are the top five things you do not want to leave at home:

1. A Lonely Planet guidebook , to help you plan when on the ground. We recommend the updated Lonely Planet Turkey .

2. An unlocked smartphone , so you can buy a cheap SIM card and use apps like Uber and Google Maps. If you don’t have an unlocked phone and it costs too much to get it online, you can buy a cheap but decent one online, like this unlocked Samsung .

3. An extra swimsuit so you can enjoy Turkey’s hammams and beaches without having to put a wet one back on. We like this cute but affordable one-piece .

4. Motion sickness pills for windy roads, Istanbul traffic, ferries, hot air balloon rides, etc. We recommend something natural that uses ginger rather than chemicals to avoid drowsiness, like these motion sickness pills .

5. Sunscreen (if you’re bringing checked luggage) . Sunscreen and other cosmetics can be expensive in Turkey compared to back home. You can bring these ones in checked luggage, or if you are packing carry-on only, I love having a solid sunscreen stick that doesn’t cut into my liquid allowance.

Istanbul Airports

Istanbul airports are confusing, and since a new airport just opened this year, the information on most websites is also horribly out of date. 

The airport code IST used to mean Attaturk Airport,  but now is being routed to Istanbul New Airport. This airport is fifty kilometers from the city center. This takes about an hour to go by car, but I would never leave for an airport in Istanbul less than four hours before take off. Anxious flyers should leave five hours early. Between traffic and insane security protocols, flying out of Istanbul can be a real nightmare.

Here’s an overview of the public transportation options to get from IST to the city center. I personally prefer to use Uber since it’s much faster than the bus (and not too expensive). 

The other airport, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, is SAW. It’s also fifty kilometers from the city center. Here’s an overview of public transportation options to and from SAW. 

If you prefer the peace of mind that comes with pre-booking an airport transfer, they are relatively inexpensive in Istanbul. We strongly recommend pre-booking your transfer with a reputable transfer company. This one has nearly a thousand reviews with an average of 4.5 stars out of 5. Book here now.

Istanbul Bus Stations

I always plan to take a bus from Istanbul back to Sofia, and then I always cave and decide I’d rather pay the money for a one hour flight than spend the day on the bus. Therefore, I’ve avoided dealing with the bus stations in Istanbul for my last four trips.

If you do decide to use the buses, here’s a great overview of the different stations and which cities they service. 

Istanbul Train Stations

When I took the train from Sofia to Istanbul , we got out at Halkili station and then transferred to a free shuttle for the last hour into the city. 

Trains are a great way to get around Turkey or to travel to nearby Greece and Bulgaria. Until we have more train trips documented, check out the always knowledgable train website  The Man in Seat 61  for information about train travel in Turkey.

Istanbul Taxis

Istanbul taxis have a bad reputation. Luckily, when I’ve needed to get in a yellow cab, I’ve never had an issue. However, you should always be on your toes. 

When using taxis in Istanbul, make sure that the meter is turned on. Always ask ahead of time for the meter. If it’s not on by the time the trip starts, ask again. If the driver refuses, get out of the taxi.

If you’re stressed that the taxi is going out of its way, you can run Google maps on your phone to keep an eye on it (just make sure your phone is on silent so the driving directions don’t get read aloud). Sometimes you’ll realize that Istanbul’s streets really are just that byzantine and there’s no better route. This is great for peace of mind. 

Carry small bills if you’ll be using taxis. Pay as close the fare as possible without needing change. Most drivers will give you change, but others might give you a problem hoping you’ll just give them a tip.

You do not need to tip a taxi driver in Istanbul. Just round up to the nearest lira. 

If you use a taxi from an airport, get one in the official taxi stand line. Never get in a random taxi or go with someone who just grabs your bags or tries to get your attention. 

Remember that taxis in Istanbul are relatively inexpensive compared to most of Europe, so if you do get ripped off a bit keep in mind that the actual value of the scam is probably not very much. 

Uber & Taxi Apps

If the thought of taxis in Istanbul is giving you anxiety, then use Uber instead. The lowest car level is Uber black, but they are priced insanely well. 

You’ll need internet access to get an Uber, so either make sure you have a sim card, and international plan, or find some wifi. 

My only piece of advice for using Ubers in Istanbul: google whether the company is still operating in Istanbul a few days before your trip.

Why? Well, the government is constantly threatening to shut down Uber because the powerful taxi lobby hates them. While they haven’t been successful yet, just make sure they still are there. I found out that Uber left Athens the hard way. 

Get to Know Your Turkish Lira

If you’re coming from a country that uses the USD, GBP, or the Euro, you’ll love the Turkish Lira. Political volatility has hurt the Turkish economy, and thus the Lira has nearly crashed in the last few years.

Double check the exchange rate before your trip, just in case the currency starts to recover.  Listed rates are as of July 2019.

Currency Code:  TRY

Exchange Rate:  1 TRY = 0.16 EUR / 0.18 USD / 0.14 GBP / 0.23 CAD

Most Common Banknotes:  5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200

Most Common Coins:  1, 5Kr, 10Kr, 25Kr, 50Kr

Can I Use My Euros:  Sometimes you can use Euros in Istanbul. If prices are listed in Euros, you can bet the exchange rate is inflated. It’s always better to pay in Lira.

If you’ll be visiting other Balkan countries during your trip, check out our Balkan currency guide .

Tipping in Istanbul 

Tipping is not as common in Istanbul as in the US, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Keep in mind that most of the time, you will not be able to put a tip on a credit card. You need access to small amounts of cash for tips.

Here are the tipping guidelines for different situations:

Restaurants & Bars: tip 5-10%

Taxis: Round up to the nearest Lira

Hammans (Turkish Baths): 10-20%

Housekeeping: 5-10 Lira

Delivery Food: 5-10%

Tour Guides: 20-30 Lira per day per group

Belly Dancers: 5-50 Lira

Salons & Barbers: 15-20%

Using Credit Cards in Istanbul

You will be able to use credit cards at many restaurants, hotels, and other spots in Istanbul that cater to tourists. However, credit card usage is not universal. 

As with the rest of the Balkans, a good rule of thumb is to always ask ahead of time. Between places that don’t take cards, the occasional card reader error, and needing to leave a tip, you’ll always need to have some cash on you. 

Note that American Express is not accepted in most of Europe or Asia, and that includes Istanbul. 

Wifi in Istanbul

I’ve always been able to find decent wifi in Istanbul. Most Istanbul hotels will have free wifi, but double check before you book anything. 

If it’s critical that you be able to check in to wifi during meals, it’s cool to ask restaurants if they have wifi before sitting down (most will). Besides restaurants, it’s common to find wifi at cafes, bars, and even in some public transportation spots. 

Be careful when using public wifi. It’s a good idea to protect your information with a VPN or DNS. I use Smart DNS Proxy which lets me watch that sweet HULU and HBO from anywhere in the world and alerts me if there’s a security issue on my internet connection. 

Censored Internet

You may be surprised to find out that you can’t access Wikipedia, certain hotel sites, or most porn sites. While these are unlikely to ruin your trip, it can make Turkey a difficult place to do online work from. I was trying to write some articles for National Geographic while I was there last year, and I couldn’t access sites I needed to double check place name spellings.

Of course, the issue of Internet Freedom in Turkey (or lack thereof) affects locals much more than it will affect you, but it’s still good to know ahead of time.

You also may choose to refrain from being critical of the government online in your social media posts while you are in the country.

Getting a Sim Card

We are in the process of writing our own guide to getting a sim card in Istanbul (similar to our Serbia sim card and Bulgaria sim card guides). Until we have a full write-up, here are some quick tips.

The main companies for pre-paid tourist sims in Istanbul are Turkcell and Vodafone. Turkcell is supposed to be a bit cheaper, but keep in mind that prices fluctuate.

For a little less than 100 Lira (about $18 USD), you can get a sim with 3 GB of data and 500 local calling minutes. This makes sim card prices in Turkey more expensive than Greece, let alone other Balkan countries. However, if you’re a data fiend, then you need the data. 

Smoking Cigarettes

Smoking is banned inside restaurants and bars. There are typically designated outdoor smoking sections available. There may be separate smoking sections in some places inside, but it’s not common like it is in Greece. 

This is great news for people who want to avoid secondhand smoke. For smokers, the weather in Istanbul is nice so much of the year that you can sit outside much of the year.

There are some places where people will ignore the laws and smoke inside anyway (though still less frequent than in Greece). I would not personally risk breaking the law in Turkey, but it’s up to you. 

Many hotels have smoking accommodations – check before you book if this is crucial for you to enjoy your trip. 

Since Turkey is not in the EU, prescription and medication rules here are different than you may be used to if you come from an EU country. We found that most of what we wanted was available easily, but some things were not. You may be able to get alternatives pretty easy for situations where pharmacies don’t stock a particular brand name that you want.

Pharmacies in Sultanahmet are more expensive than pharmacies in the rest of the city. 

If you plan to buy medications that are cheaper in Turkey than back home, start looking as soon as you get to Istanbul. Since pharmacies are small and owner-operated, you may need to visit a few to find everything you’re looking for. 

Food & Dietary Restrictions

Istanbul is a great place to eat if you are vegan or vegetarian. There are so many restaurant options available, so you can still enjoy a great foodie vacation without cutting corners. Use this vegetarian and vegan guide to Istanbul from one of my favorite local websites. 

If you are traveling to Istanbul and are concerned about how your food allergies will be handled, you’ll be happy to know that most of the restaurants in the busiest parts of the city have servers who speak excellent English. It should not be difficult for you to communicate your food allergy while in the city.

Don’t Drink the Water

When I first went to Istanbul in 2011, we were told to avoid the tap water at all costs. Technically the water is now clean enough to drink, but it still has a funky taste that I would avoid. So while you don’t need to freak out and brush your teeth with bottled water, skip drinking directly from the tap.

Get to Know Your Turkish Coffee

Turkish coffee is made by a special brewing process that uses unfiltered coffee grounds. The result? It’s thicker than you may be used to back home (unless you’re from the rest of the Balkans, where this Turkish coffee might just go by another name).

It’s delicious, but you may find it to be an acquired taste. No trip to Istanbul is complete without at least having one cup (or five).

Turkish Wine

While Turkey is one of the oldest wine regions in the world, it’s modern wine culture is actually intimately tied to modern Turkish democracy. Kemal Attaturk actually established the country’s first commercial winery in the 1920s. 

Turkish wine doesn’t get exported widely, so make sure to ask your server for recommendations to pair with your meals.

Alcohol Prices

You will probably find that your money goes very far in Istanbul. That is, until happy hour. The reason? Alcohol prices in Turkey are shockingly high compared to other Istanbul prices.

The reason prices are so high is that the government has put a heavy sin tax on alcohol. Prices for beer and raki have increased over 600% since Erdoğan came to power in 2003. According to Politico:

Erdoğan has made no secret of his disdain for drinking, once declaring that “whoever drinks alcohol is an alcoholic.” On top of taxes, the AKP has introduced restrictions on alcohol sales. Since 2013, shops are banned from selling booze after 10 p.m. and no alcohol may be sold within 100 meters of a mosque. Advertising of alcohol — just like cigarettes — is prohibited, and alcohol and tobacco products are often blurred out on Turkish television.

While Turkish is the official language, there are multiple minority languages spoken in Turkey as well. If you want to pick up a few Turkish phrases before your trip, we have a section in our Turkey trip planner with about a dozen phrases that will come in handy while you’re here. 

If you don’t speak Turkish, you’ll be happy to know that you’ll find most people in service and tourism working in Istanbul speak excellent English. When in doubt, have a sim card and Google translate on your phone.

The Turkish Alphabet

The Turkish alphabet is based on the Latin alphabet, but it incorporates diacritical marks to change the traditional pronunciations of certain letters. In addition, the letters Q, V, and W are only used in loan words and when typing foreign names.

Use this Turkish alphabet explainer to learn the pronunciation of letters in Turkey. 

Safety in Istanbul

Istanbul, like most major European cities, is mostly safe. Much of the danger associated with the government is aimed at locals, and tourists will rarely be affected.

Like all major cities, you need to be aware of the possibility of terrorism. However, statistically, its unlikely for an incident to happen during your trip. You can check the US State Department website for current advisory warnings.

The real risks for tourist are the same things that can happen in any major city: pickpockets, tourist scams, etc. You should use the same common sense that you use in any large city.

Read:  Is Istanbul Safe? 13 Tips to Stay Safe in Istanbul

Common Tourist Scams

Tourist scams happen wherever tourists gather. So pay extra attention to your surroundings whenever you’re in the major tourist sites.

One major scam is for people to invite you for a drink. Don’t have a drink with a stranger or take a recommendation for a restaurant or bar from someone on the street. When you get there, they will either rob you or overcharge you.

Another scam is for someone to just start guiding you around without asking you if you want a tour guide. Then they guilt you into paying for the tour. Avoid talking to strangers and don’t go anywhere with anyone you don’t know.

Beware of shoe shiners guilting you into getting a shoe shine. They’ve targeted you because you are an obvious foreigner, and they will overcharge you.

Always check that your bill only includes the dishes you ordered. Most restaurants would not pull a scam and overcharge you, but a few scrupulous ones will. 

Finally, avoid pickpockets by keeping your stuff put away. Never leave your bag unattended (I like to sit with a chair leg through one of the loops on my bag). I also use bags with anti-theft features to help make sure I’m a less desirable target.

Politics…Don’t Talk About (Until You Get Home)

Turkey is the only place in the Balkans where you have to deal with this issue, but it is an important one. Follow this advice from the US State Department to avoid becoming an unwitting target. 

Participation in demonstrations not explicitly approved by the Government of Turkey, as well as criticism of the government, including on social media, can result in arrest.

What to Do in an Emergency

If you have an emergency, notify emergency services. Keep these numbers handy just in case:

Ambulance : 112  Police : 155 Fire : 110  Tourism Police : (0212) 5274503 

Electrical Outlets

Turkey uses type F electrical outlets (also typically compatible with type C and E). This is the same as the rest of continental Europe.

Squat Toilets

I saw my first squat toilet in Istanbul (though it would be far from my last squat toilet). In Istanbul, most stalls in women’s bathrooms will be western-style flush toilets, but there will sometimes be squat toilets as an option in one of the stalls. 

You most likely will not need to use one unless you travel out into rural Turkey. 

Don’t Call it Constantinople

Constantinople fell in the 15th century. At this point, if you’re walking around calling the city Constantinople and refusing to call it Istanbul, you’re probably a jerk.

Learn a Bit of Turkish History Before You Get Here

The history of Istanbul goes back to Emperor Constantine (though technically it was a Greek city even before that). If you want to brush up on the city’s history before you come, you can check out these podcasts:

• The History of Rome Podcast  
• The History of Byzantium Podcast
• Ottoman History Podcast

Enjoy the Call to Prayer

If this is the first Muslim-majority city that you’ll be visiting, get ready for a treat! Listening to the call to prayer is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have anywhere in the world. Even non-Muslims can appreciate the beauty and tradition of this moment.

The call to prayer, known as the ezan , happens five times a day. The sound you’re hearing comes from the speakers in the minarets of the city’s various mosques. 

Respecting Islam

Turkey is a secular Islamic country, and the vast majority of Turks are Muslims. Whether they are believers or not, practicing Muslims or not, this is a part of the cultural heritage of almost everyone you meet.

If you can’t be respectful of Islam by adhering to the few (extremely minor) ways to show respect, then just stay home. Don’t come and be an ugly tourist. This would include asking people blunt questions about why Islam has various rules, etc.

The only people you should ask about Islamic practices are tour guides on education tours about Islam or museum guides. It’s not a local’s job to teach you about religion. They’re just trying to live their lives. 

This guide from Passion Passport offers a great overview of how to be respectful of Islam in Istanbul. 

Visiting Mosques

You absolutely need to visit some mosques during your time in Istanbul. To do this properly, you’ll need to adhere to a few simple rules.

1. Only visit when it’s not prayer time . If you see that a prayer service is going on wait until it is over. Don’t try to visit on Friday nights. 

2. Take your shoes off . At most mosques, you will leave your shoes outside, but at the Blue Mosque, you’ll carry them with you in a plastic bag.

3. Men should wear pants rather than shorts. Remove any hats before entering.

 4. Women should also be covered up . Wear clothes that go past the elbow and should be covered in either pants or a long skirt. If it’s hot out, you can just bring leggings and a jacket to put on before you enter. Most mosques will have cover-ups for tourists outside.

5. Women’s hair should be completely covered . I like to bring my own scarf, but most mosques in Istanbul will have headscarves that you can borrow for your visit. 

Get Out of Sultanahmet

Don’t spend every minute in Sultanahmet. In fact, I think it’s best to spend most of your trip outside of this congested (expensive area). I’d rather come to visit the sites for a day or two, and then I spend the rest of my trip in the cool parts of Beyoglu and in Kadikoy.

Be Considerate of the Restoration Work

Yes, the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are under restoration right now. In all likelihood, these two ancient buildings will be under some kind of restoration for the rest of time. Don’t complain about it. Instead, be grateful to every restoration project that happened in the past that allowed you to be lucky enough to see these sacred places.

How to Haggle at the Bazaars

Don’t accept any listed price when in the Grand Bazaar – the whole point is to haggle! Don’t worry about what they quote you. I like to go by this advice:

I pay absolutely no attention to what the first asking price is. I decide how much I am willing to spend, and then I offer 50% less than what my final offer will be. If my offer is rejected out of hand, then I know that there is no point in spending any time with the salesperson. If he moves his price in my direction, I will start to move up in 5% to 10% intervals. If we never reach an agreement about price, I simply say I am sorry but I cannot spend anything above my final offer. I either ask to see something less expensive or I start to walk away. Almost always the salesperson will call me back and we find something in the neighborhood of the price I have already pre-determined in my head. For us, the secret is not to become so caught up in the game that you feel you have to “win” by offering prices that are higher than what you originally decide to spend. If you cannot get your price, keep walking and looking. You will likely find something similar on the next street and a salesperson who will deal with you more equitably. It is a poor strategy to overly praise what you are thinking of purchasing, and certainly a mistake to let the salesperson see that you really want what you are attempting to purchase. Make them believe that you are only semi-interested in the product.

I also like to keep small amounts of cash in different pockets. That way I can get my cash out and show that I literally can’t pay more than I’m offering, and they can take it or leave it. 

Turkish Bath Etiquette

When in Turkey, you must go to a Turkish bath! Called hammams, they’re everywhere. In fact, you could go to a new one every day of your trip and not run out of places to relax.

A few things to know before your first hammam trip:

1. Men and Women have separate facilities (or different hours). There are no co-ed Turkish baths.

2. You’ll be given a towel to cover yourself. Men typically only wear a towel. Women are also typically given a pair of underwear. 

3. If you don’t want to wear the underwear you’re given (or go naked), you can wear your own underwear. Plain black will blend in the best. Plus size women might want to just bring a pair of plain black underwear just to be safe in case the one-size-fits-all pair they give you is a bit snug.

4. Expect the women’s side to be staffed with women and the men’s side to be staffed by men.

5. Expect to tip 10-20% at the end of your visit. You will need to tip this in cash. 

6. Some hammams take credit cards (though not for the tip), but not all do. Call ahead if this will be critical.

Don’t Eat Lunch at Topkapi Palace

I’ve traveled to over sixty countries, and the costs of a simple lunch at Topkapi Palace shocked me to my very core. The views from the courtyard are stunning, so it’s worth coming by. But don’t show up famished needing a meal! 

Spend Some Time on the Water

Whether you walk on the Bosphorus, take a cruise in the city at night,  hire a private yacht, or go swimming, do not go to Istanbul and not spend at least some time on the water! The city is blessed with some of the most beautiful coastlines anywhere in the world.

If you get stuck in Sultanahmet and don’t get out, you’ll miss how beautiful the Bosphorus and Golden Horn truly are. 

Don’t Forget to See Europe & Asia

Okay, I’ll admit it. I’m super guilty of this. There’s so much to do on the European side of Istanbul that I get caught up and forget to make it to Asia. But what’s the fun of being in a city that straddles two continents if you don’t take advantage?

There are some great things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul , so make sure you have time to enjoy them!

Don’t Miss the Sunsets

Sunset in the Balkans are epic (my theory is that this is the only benefit to the teensy bit of extra smog we have in the region). If you can, try to be somewhere to take advantage of the great sunsets (or sunrises) the city has to offer. 

Istanbul Shopping

I think Istanbul is one of the best shopping cities in the world, and I don’t just mean the Grand Bazaar!

I always come back with extra bags of art, Turkish delight, and too many boxes of tea. If you want to know what’s special to buy in Istanbul, check out our Turkish souvenir and Istanbul shopping guide.  

Give Yourself Some Free Time

I personally think most travelers cram way too much into their days. While in Istanbul give yourself some time to slow down and appreciate the atmosphere.

Sip your tea slowly, have a coffee, enjoy a long mezze, and stroll aimlessly down the city’s streets. You’ll get just as much enjoyment from people watching in Istanbul as you will trying to hit every single “must-see” museum.

Wear Comfy Shoes

If you plan on hitting all of the best things to do in Istanbul, prepared to have tired feet at the end of the day! While you may be jealous of how (ridiculously) fashionable people are in Istanbul, you’ll be happier if you’re wearing shoes that can keep up with your tour schedule. 

Istanbul & Cappadocia – Not as Close as You Might Like

A lot of travelers want to combine a trip to Istanbul and Cappadocia, but they’re not exactly near each other. We don’t suggest doing Cappadocia as a day trip from Istanbul. If you do want to combine these two Turkish hotspots, check out our guide to  how to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia  and  our suggested Cappadocia itinerary.

Only have time for one of these cities? Check out  Istanbul or Cappadocia: Which Turkish Destination Is Right For You?

Don’t Feel like You Need to Hear a Spiel about Carpets 

If you’re in a situation where someone starts a sales pitch, you don’t have to listen to it. While I personally find salespeople in Israel and Jordan much pushier than in Turkey, Istanbul might be a shock if you’ve never been to this part of the world before. 

If your tour guide takes you to a carpet store or other shop, they would get a commission. You do not need to stay and hear the pitch or buy anything. You can extricate yourself from the situation politely, but don’t feel you need to stay. 

Enroll in the STEP Program

If you’re an American and you are concerned about the possibility of terrorism or political unrest while in Turkey, you can enroll in the State Department’s STEP Program . This lets the government know your travel plans, and they will also email you to alert you if anything happens on the ground.

To be honest, I don’t use it when I go to Turkey (though I probably should) since I feel pretty safe there. I have used it while traveling in Tunisia during protests, and I appreciated the up-to-date emails with what to look out for and areas to stay away from.

There is a similar program for  Canadians . If you are a citizen of another country, check with your government to see if they provide these services. 

Don’t Forget about Travel Insurance!

It’s always a good idea to travel to Turkey or anywhere in Europe with a valid  travel insurance  policy. Istanbul is a very safe place to travel, but accidents or theft can easily ruin your trip if you don’t have the travel insurance coverage to recover the losses. Recently my aunt fell on a train in France and needed surgery, but luckily her travel insurance covered the costs in full. Thank goodness!

For travel insurance, I use  World Nomads .  I’ve been a happy customer of theirs for almost three years, and I’ve never had an issue when making a claim. I’m happy to refer them to anyone I meet.

>> Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here. <<

More Istanbul Travel Resources

We have a ton of resources to help you plan your trip to Istanbul! We’re working on our massive  things to do post in Istanbul and our Istanbul safety tips , plus you can check out our  guide to the best Instagram spots around Istanbul,  our favorite  Istanbul neighborhoods and where to stay , and tips for  shopping in Istanbul .

If you will be visiting in winter, we have a special  winter in Istanbul  guide plus an overview of Istanbul weather in January.

If you want to be in the city for just a few days (four or less), check out our  Istanbul city break guide , which breaks down the best of the city so you won’t miss anything!

For more general Turkey information, check out this guide to  planning a trip to Turkey (including visa information)  and this guide to other  beautiful places to visit in Turkey . You can also check out our  Balkan currency guide , which explains how the Turkish lira works and guidelines for tipping in Istanbul.

We have tons more Turkey and Balkans resources, and we publish new content nearly daily. Bookmark our  Turkey  and  Balkans  travel pages so you can find any new resources that come out before your trip!

Pin these Istanbul Travel Tips for Your Trip!

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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Istanbul travel tips: 18 Things to know before traveling to Istanbul

Planning to travel to Istanbul for the first time? Here are the best Istanbul travel tips you need to know to enjoy this incredible Turkish city.

Traveling to Istanbul for the first time? It is exciting to be going to this incredible city that is full of wonders and partially a Unesco World Heritage site.

Having been to Istanbul for the first time myself and making a number of mistakes, I have enough knowledge to write a detailed guide of all the Istanbul travel tips using my personal and general experiences so that you are not as green as I was when you reach this Turkish megapolis city.

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Istanbul is a big and fascinating city and a dream destination for many travelers.  With so much history and modern sides to it, it is the only city in the world that lies on 2 continents – Asia and Europe.

Istanbul is one of the major touristic cities in the world receiving over 39 million tourists every year (as of 2018 figures). With all those tourists on the go, it might be overwhelming for first-time visitors to figure out how best they can enjoy the city.

Please note that this post is not about the things to do , places to see in Istanbul , or even places to stay but rather travel tips for Istanbul for first-time visitors

If your trip to Istanbul is also the first time you’re taking a flight, read this post to get all the must-know tips for first-time flyers .

Before You Go, Here Are Some Quick Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip to Istanbul

–  Book your accommodation in advance. For the best stay, I suggest staying at Royal Suites Sultanahmet (9.0/10) if you’re on a budget, Meroddi Galata Mansion (8.7/10) if you’re on a mid-range budget, or the Galataport Hotel (8.6/10) for a luxurious stay. If you’d rather book an apartment, this is the apartment rental I recommend. –  Don’t miss out on popular tours and activities in Istanbul. Some of my favorites are; the Whirling Dervishes Show , this 3-hour Bosphorus cruise dinner , this Hagia Sophia guided tour , and this Topkapi palace guided tour . –  Don’t forget to take Travel Insurance.  Request a free quote from my favorite insurance, World Nomads . –  To get the most out of your visit, I recommend buying this Istanbul pass . It will give you free access to popular attractions in the city, free public transportation, and a cruise on the Bosphorus. –  Plan your trip to Istanbul extensively with this Lonely Planet Istanbul guidebook .

General Istanbul travel tips

Arriving in istanbul.

There are so many options for arriving in Istanbul. You can opt for a train, bus, flight or even a ship but of course, that will depend on where you’re coming from!

If you choose to travel to Istanbul by plane, you can check out the flight weekly deals with Skyscanner and book your flight with Expedia , the number one website with great flight deals.

Visa requirements

Just like traveling to any other place, you’ll need to obtain a visa if you’re coming from another country (though some nationalities don’t require one).

If you’re required to get a visa to enter Turkey, you can apply for an e-visa from the Turkish visa information website .

Related post: The ultimate guide to visiting Turkey

Experiences not to miss in Istanbul

While visiting Istanbul, there are some experiences you should not miss out on, whether you’re visiting for a week, a few days, or even a month.

Below are some that will make your Istanbul trip memorable.

Cruising the Bosphorus

There is no trip to Istanbul that is complete without cruising the Bosphorus strait to explore both the European and Asian sides of this country.

Whether you book this afternoon Bosphorus cruise to be able to see how the sun shines on some of the popular attractions, this sunset cruise to see how the sun dips behind the same, or this dinner Bosphorus cruise with entertainment to watch the shimmering lights from those major landmarks of Istanbul, you’re bound to be treated to an amazing experience.

Watching the Whirling Dervishes Show

Spend some time being blown away by the whirling Dervish show as you watch this traditional dance that has been a part of Turkey’s culture and one of the most important heritage from the Islamic culture inspired by Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi (1207-1273).

There are a number of places where you can watch the Whirling Dervish Show in Istanbul but the one I highly recommend is at the HodjaPasha Culture Center .

You can always book your ticket on-site but to make sure you skip the long lines and have a guaranteed spot, you can book an onlıne ticket from here .

Travel tips for Istanbul for first-time visitors

1. don’t try to see everything in istanbul.

As I said earlier, Istanbul is massively huge and the idea that you’ll be able to see everything seems far-fetched.

Instead of running around the city from one place to another in a rush and eventually get overwhelmed, why not prioritize the places to visit by creating a proper Istanbul itinerary .

Istanbul offers a mix of history, culture, and modern, so decide which section you fancy the most or try to even mix it a little bit by visiting half of the historical part and the modern part. With that, you’ll be able to see a great deal of Istanbul.

You can also read my previous post that showcases some of the best things to do in Istanbul for an amazing time in the city.

2. Get yourself an Istanbul kart (Istanbul card).

Like many major cities in the world, Istanbul revolutionized its public transportation by introducing an Istanbul Kart in 2009 also known as the Istanbul Card.

Public transportation in Istanbul is as good or nearly as good as private transportation – so you shouldn’t be afraid to use it.

The Istanbul card is used to pay for all public transportation around Istanbul whether buses, metros, or ship.

It costs a one-time fee of  10TL(Turkish Liras) and comes preloaded with 4TL.  After that, you keep loading credit on it to be able to use public transportation.

Most of the stations have a point where you can purchase or recharge your Istanbul card from.

And the advantage of using an Istanbul card is that you always get a discount on transportation and can be used by up to 5 people.

For example, if you use a bus in the morning (or any time) and a few hours later, you use it for the ship, the ship price will be discounted.

Unfortunately, if you don’t purchase an Istanbul card, it will be sometimes hard to use public buses, metro, or a ship.

However, you can still use the yellow taxis but I found the experience of using an Istanbul card very interesting and convenient.

Related post:  Things to do in Istanbul at night

3. Get the museum pass

If you’re planning to visit different museums and archaeological sites, a museum pass will be very useful.

The museum pass can be obtained from any historical site that accepts them or even online.

It can also be used in selected museums and archeological sites around the country. If you only plan to visit one city in Turkey, you can opt for a regional museum pass instead of the nationwide one.

The advantage of getting the museum pass is that you save more money on entry fees and time as you don’t waste time in queues.

All you have to do is to swipe the pass in the machine, once accepted, you enter immediately without spending time lining up.

The museum pass costs 210TL, saving you some money for your next adventure making it one of the best ways to enjoy Istanbul on a budget .

If you’re planning to travel to Istanbul only, get yourself this Istanbul museum pass that costs 125TL and gives you one-time access to most museums and archaeological sites for 120 hours after the initial usage of the pass.

On top of the Museum pass, I’d recommend you to buy this Istanbul tourist pass . It also has the same advantages as the Museum pass but it can also be used in other major tourist sites, not just museums.

The Tourist pass can be easily bought online from here .

4. Download travel apps for visiting Istanbul

These apps are not only for people visiting Istanbul for the first time but even Istanbul frequent travelers that want to make their trip easier.

So before you go, download these apps to make traveling around Istanbul easier.

The grand bazaar app

With over 4,000 shops and a total number of daily visitors between 250,000 to 400,000 people, the grand bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

With all that, it might be a bit difficult to navigate easily within the grand bazaar especially for first-time visitors.

But with the grand bazaar app, you’ll be able to navigate easily and fast. You can use the app to locate everything you need from an ATM, restaurants, restrooms to specific shops.

The advantage of this app is that it not only shows you the location of the place but also how to get there from your current location.

Even though yellow taxis are widely spread in Istanbul, sometimes it might be a little hard to get one when you urgently need it.

BiTaksi is a great app to order for a private taxi and it will be available in just a few minutes.

The best part is that with this app you’re able to see all the details of the driver from the license number, name to phone number and on top of that, you’ll be able to see how much the journey costs from the fare calculator that is incorporated within the app. “Think of BiTaksi as the uber version in Istanbul.”

This is another useful app that every first-time traveler to Istanbul should download.

Istanbul being a big city curated with traffic, it might be hard for a first-time traveler to get around easily using public transportation.

This is where the Trafi app comes in to show you all the available means of public transportation near your current location.

The app shows you all the schedules of public transit, how long the journey will take, and also the real-time traffic in that area for each particular mode of transport.

With these apps downloaded on your phone, you’re bound to have a fabulous stay in Istanbul.

Other great apps to download while visiting Istanbul include; Sesli Sozluk to easily translate words and sentences from/to English and Turkish, Yandex.maps for easy navigation around Istanbul, and Yemeksepeti for food delivery.

Related: Check out these free travel apps that might also be useful while traveling in Istanbul.

5. Get a prepaid Turkish sim card

When you visit Istanbul for the first time, it will be much easier to buy a prepaid sim card that is if your phone is unlocked.

The most common service providers are Turkcell and Vodaphone. All these have a tourist sim card that comes loaded with the internet, calling minutes, and text messages.

The amount of GBs, minutes, and texts depending on the package you choose.

The best sim card will depend on personal requirements, so I advise you to walk up to both shops, compare the packages and prices and choose the one that suits your needs.

Nevertheless, most people recommend using Turkcell as it seems to have the best packages and most 4G network coverage but Vodaphone is just right behind it.

6. Be aware of Istanbul’s traffic

Traffic in Istanbul is chaotic and can be worse during peak hours that’s why it’s not surprising that it was named one of the worst cities in terms of traffic and congestion in Europe. 

So, for short distances where you can walk, do so, instead of spending unnecessary time in traffic. Just make sure you know where you’re headed by using some of the apps that I suggested above.

Furthermore, Turkey uses the right-hand traffic flow system, so be cautious if you come from a country that uses the left-hand traffic flow.

Since I come from Uganda which uses a left-hand traffic system, it took me time to get used to their system, and a few times I ended up looking in the wrong direction before crossing the roads.

7. Learn a few Turkish words before you go

Turkish people are friendly and welcoming and speaking a few of their words or even making an effort to construct a sentence in Turkish will bring you closer to their hearts.

During the time I visited Turkey, I knew a few words in Turkish, and every time I used them or tried to make a sentence, I’d see the Turks’ eyes light up more.

This shows them that you’re not just visiting the tourist sites but actually care about the people and their language.

Here are a few words and phrases you should learn before you go.

• Hello: Merhabā (mehr-hah-bah)
• Good Morning: Günaydın (gew-nahy-duhn)
• Good evening:  iyi akşamlar
• Please: Lütfen (lewt-fehn)
• Thank you: Teşekkürler (te-shek-kewr-lehr)
• Yes: Evet (eh-vet)No: Hayir (hah-yuhr)
• How are you?  Nasılsınız? ( NAHS-suhl-suh-nuhz)
• I’m fine, thank you. İyiyim, teşekkür ederim. (ee-YEE-yihm, tesh-ek-KEWR eh-dehr-eem)
• Good night  İyi geceler (EE geh-jeh-LEHR)
• I don’t understand: Anlamadım (an-la-ma-duhm)
• Where is: Nerede (neh-reh-deh)What’s your name: Adınız ne (ah-duh-nuhz neh)

You can learn more Turkish words and phrases from here .

Related post: Fun facts about Turkey that you should know

8. Do not rent a car in Istanbul

As you might have read earlier, Istanbul’s traffic is crazy to the point of being named one of the most trafficked cities in Europe and in the world.

As a first-time traveler, you don’t want to waste your precious time in traffic or trying to learn how to navigate the city, so it’s important not to rent a car while in Istanbul.

In the same regard, Istanbul’s public transportation is quite comfortable. Whether it is taking a train, Tram, a ship, or a yellow taxi, you’ll feel comfortable while transiting through Istanbul as the locals do.

Related: While traveling in Istanbul, make sure that you avoid making these Istanbul travel mistakes.

9. Book your accommodation on time

Since Istanbul is a touristy place with millions of visitors, it is better to book your hotel in advance.

Here you’ll get the most value for your money and find a good place in the center of Istanbul.

Ready to book your accommodation in Istanbul? Book it from here with booking.com and choose the best hotel to suit your needs.

Note: Booking.com doesn’t work while in Turkey. So if you need to book accommodation with them, you should do it before entering the country.

Some of the hotels I recommend staying at in Istanbul include; Basileus Hotel Istanbul which is located in the heart of the Sultanahmet district, Cheers Hostel if you’re traveling on a budget, and Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel if you want to stay in the best location.

If you don’t see anything you like in the ones I’ve recommended, then you can check out more places to stay in Istanbul here .

10. Carry comfortable shoes you can easily walk with

Istanbul is very big – I can’t emphasize that enough! And to be able to see most of the things, you’ll need to walk or even take a train.

So taking comfortable shoes to walk around the city is a perfect idea. Actually, if you try to look at the locals in Istanbul, it is soo hard to even find a single person wearing high heels.

Most of them do wear sneakers or sports shoes as they are easy and comfortable to walk with.

Don’t have good walking shoes? Why not check on Amazon for the best walking shoes that are highly rated by previous buyers.

11. Is Istanbul tourist-friendly?

Istanbul is one of the major tourist places in Europe receiving travelers from all over the world.

With major touristic sites like Hagia Sophia, the blue mosque, and the grand bazaar, Istanbul should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Even with so many things to do in Istanbul, first-time travelers still wonder whether Istanbul is tourist-friendly. The simple answer is yes!

Turkish people are always friendly and sometimes willing to go out of their way to offer help.

But even though it is tourist-friendly, there are a few people that target tourists to scam them. Read this post to find out all the Istanbul scams and how to avoid them.

12. How safe is Istanbul for tourists?

Istanbul is generally safe for tourists even solo travelers. But like any other place, you just need to take care of yourself and your items.

Security is paramount whether you’re visiting Istanbul for the first time or a frequent traveler, so you just need to be aware of your surroundings and Istanbul will be very safe for you.

You can my previous post to get all the general tips on how to stay safe while traveling .

Related post: Is it safe to travel to Turkey now?

13. How many days are enough for Istanbul?

There is no specific rule on how many days you should spend in Istanbul. Actually, this should be decided by you depending on the time you have, your budget, and what you want to see in Istanbul.

But personally, I’d suggest spending at least 5 days in Istanbul to be able to experience the city a little more.

But if you have more time and money, why not go as far as a month because there is so much to see and experience that even after a month, you’ll still want more of this amazing city.

14. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul still depends on you individually, whether you want to do summer activities or winter activities .

But as a first-time traveler to Istanbul, it is better to travel during either summer or, early fall or spring months to be able to enjoy Istanbul without worrying about wearing several coats and jackets to warm up.

However, since in most cases, the question of the best time to visit a certain place is based on weather, in summary, the best time to visit Istanbul would be in the spring and autumn months when the weather is ideal and the city is not crowded by the swarm of tourists like in summer.

To make it easier for you to decide on when to visit, here is an overview of Istanbul weather.

15. Places to visit in Istanbul

Istanbul is endowed with a number of incredible places to visit from the oldest church to the heart-throbbing museums that receive thousands of visitors on a daily basis.

And as a first-time traveler, here are some of the places not to miss in Istanbul include;

• The Blue Mosque
• Hagia Sophia
• Topkapi Palace
• Suleymaniye Mosque
• The Grand Bazaar
• Galata Tower
• Cruise the Bosphorous to see both the European and Asian side of Istanbul
• Taksim and so many others.
• You can also check out my complete list of the best things to do in Istanbul .

16. What to wear in Istanbul

You’ve probably heard that you need to fully cover up (especially women) while traveling in Istanbul.

But I’d like to set the record straight that this is not ALL true. Yes, almost 95 percent of Turks are Moslems but they’re not very conservative.

This means that they do not mind so much about what you wear especially in big cities as long as you’re modest enough.

However, when visiting places of worship, you’ll need to cover your shoulders and legs! And no, you do not need to cover your head with a scarf.

So in summary, you can literally wear anything in Istanbul as long as your dress appropriately while visiting mosques. Clothes like summer dresses, tank tops, jeans, skirts, or shorts are totally wearable in Istanbul.

17. What to pack for Istanbul

To enjoy Istanbul to the maximum, you need to have all the travel essentials. So here are some of the travel essentials not to leave behind when traveling to Istanbul.

• A Travel scarf:   This scarf   is soft on the skin but also big enough to act as a blanket or a cover when you find yourself in places where you need to cover your hair. But if you need an anti-theft scarf,  this one  is a great choice and can keep a number of items with the phone inclusive.
• A collapsible water bottle:  As a traveler, you shouldn’t leave a bottle behind when going to Istanbul. So pack  this collapsible water bottle  so that you can refill it every time it runs dry.
• A money belt or Travel pouch:  Since there is a lot of street theft in Istanbul, especially in crowded places like the Grand Bazaar, I’d advise you to either carry  this money belt  or this travel pouch  to be able to keep your money safe.
• A universal travel adapter : Since Istanbul might have different sockets compared to other countries, I’d advise you to buy a universal travel adapter so that you don’t keep changing for every country you go to. You can  buy one from here  if you don’t have it yet.
•   A power Bank : One of the things you should never leave behind while traveling to Istanbul is the Powerbank! Phones have now become a great deal of our lives that we need to use them for so many important things. So take a power bank with you so that you don’t run out of battery.  This power bank   is small, light, and has the capability to charge your phone and other devices multiple times.
•   Microfibre travel towel  – I always opt for  this microfibre travel towel   because it is super lightweight, easy to wash, and dries easily.
•   First Aid kit : Regardless of where you’re traveling to, you’ll need to pack a First Aid kit for emergencies that might arise. Remember it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Just make sure that the one you pack has all the essentials and that it is small and light enough to fit in any kind of suitcase/ backpack.  This first aid kit   actually fits all the qualities mentioned above plus it is really cheap for what it offers.

18. Be aware of Istanbul travel scams

Like all major cities, Istanbul has its own share of scams targeting majorly tourists.

So as a first-time traveler to Instanbul, the best thing you can do to not get scammed is by researching the most common scams in Istanbul.

Some of the commons scams you should look out for include;

• Being invited for a drink at a bar by a super friendly local that knows a nice place that has the best beers/whiskeys in town.
• Someone offering you help at the Grand Bazaar. 
•  Street robbery/ Pickpockets

Final Thoughts on the Best Istanbul Travel Tips

Now that you know everything you should know as a first-time traveler to Istanbul, it’s time to pack your bags and get ready to experience a trip of a lifetime.

Have you been to Istanbul yet? Do you have other travel tips for Istanbul that worked for you? Share with us by leaving them in the comment section.

NEVER TRAVEL ANYWHERE WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip is to forego Travel Insurance! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s  NOT  that expensive! There are many Travel Insurance companies out there, but I love  World Nomads ! They cover almost every single thing you might face/do while traveling, it is easy to request a quote, and if you ever need to claim, the claiming process is not a rat race! I’ve used World Nomads on all my trips, and I am confident and happy to recommend it to you! No worries if you’re not yet ready to book your trip, you can request a  free quote from World Nomads here  and see if it suits your personal needs!

More posts to help you plan your trip to Turkey:

• Best places to visit in Turkey.
• Things to do in Istanbul at night
• How to enjoy Istanbul on a budget
• Free things to do in Istanbul
• Things to know before traveling to Turkey
• Things to do in Marmaris, Turkey
• Cool facts about Turkey
• Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

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Hey! Came here for other things but since you mentioned scams, I’ll share my experience. I arrived to Turkey to realise my apartment booked on booking.com doesn’t exist. Booking.com refunded me but still, it was very stressful arrival since it was midnight when I got there. Anyway, be aware of any accommodation that has a few reviews on both, booking.com or Airbnb, these are likely to be scam as I found many more similar offers with the same red flags once I realised I fell for the trap. Be safe people, Turks are friendly but not all of them 🙂

That’s really a complete and detailed guide about Istanbul. I will definitely benefit from your advices. Especially Istanbulkart advice.

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Home > 51 Istanbul Travel Tips – Things To Know Before You Visit Istanbul

51 Istanbul Travel Tips – Things To Know Before You Visit Istanbul

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Istanbul is one of my favorite places in Türkiye. You must know a few things before you land in Istanbul, as it is a gigantic city. Here are all the travel tips for Istanbul you need to have a superb time enjoying the tourist sites.

Istanbul is a city that straddles two continents and boasts of its rich and ancient history, breathtaking architecture, mouth-watering cuisines, and warm hospitality. It is also a place where you need to know some of these things before you head there. 

Istanbul is the best place to start in Turkey. I seriously think that if you don’t visit Istanbul at least once in your life, you’ll regret it. I also believe that once is not enough – which is why I have been many times and know not just the most important Istanbul travel tip – but rather many tips!

Packed with history, culture, entertainment, gastronomy, and nightlife, there is so much to see and do that you’ll be exhausted by the end of your trip but so happy that you did it all.

But Istanbul is enormous, literally massive. There are countless tips you need to know if you want your trip to go as smoothly as possible and so you can get the most out of your time. But don’t worry; I’ve got the low-down for you.

In this blog post, we’ve compiled insider tips from seasoned locals who know every nook and cranny of Istanbul .  Here are the must-know tips for Istanbul that you need before you visit for the first time. Or for the second or even the hundredth time. Every visit to Istanbul can bring new surprises.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Transportation And Navigation Travel Tips

1. make peace with traffic.

Look, it’s hectic, and that means traffic. If you think you’ve seen traffic, trust me, you haven’t. Istanbul traffic is on another scale altogether. There’s nothing you can do about it – no matter the day or time in Istanbul. So, the best thing is to make peace with it.

2. Use Public Transport

The best travel tip for Istanbul is to use transport options that avoid traffic problems, such as the Metro line, the tramway, or, y’know, even a short walk. Istanbul is a very walkable city, with the walking distance between central locations ideal for kids (mine just needed breaks!)

• Guide To Istanbul Transport Options

3. Use The “IstanbulKart” 

The IstanbulKart is a pre-paid transportation card that you can use on all types of public transport (except for taxis in Istanbul).

Public transportation in Istanbul is cheap and easy to use, and you’ll be thankful you have it in your bag when your feet hurt, and you want to get back to your hotel.

4. Avoid Buses During Besiktas Games

Besiktas football stadium is located across from Dolmabache Palace on a bustling road that links Besiktas with Taksim, Karatas, Galata, and Eminonu. But, if the football team plays at home, the road to Taksim and Sisli closes, and you’ll have to walk.

It’s a big hill, too – don’t attempt it.

5. Use HAVAIST Bus For Airport

If you’re flying into Istanbul, the HAVAIST bus is the easiest and cheapest way to get to and from both airports. There are numerous routes, and they run 24 hours per day on a regular basis. Taxis might seem more convenient, but they’re costly.

6. Take Taxis Via App Service

If you do decide to use taxi services, use those that are associated with an app. Options include Uber , BiTaksi and iTaksi.

Using these services will help ensure you avoid the scams the yellow taxis are known for in Istanbul.

Travel Preparation And Local Insights

7. pack for comfort.

You’re going to be busy, and you’re probably not going to have time to go back to your hotel and freshen up before your evening out. Even if you do, you’ll be so tired you won’t even care what you look like. With so much to see, including the European and Asian sides, there’s no time to care about style points. My advice? Just pack for comfort and forget about style.

8. Emphasize Footwear

Even if you use public transport, you’ll probably end up standing for most of the way, so make sure you wear very comfortable footwear. Ladies, forget the heels. Just wear trainers that are well broken in, and you’ll be good to go on your day trip in Istanbul. Oh, and throw some plasters in your back, just in case.

• Our Fave Travel Shoes – A Comprehensive Guide

9. Get An eSIM

Large phone companies in Istanbul usually offer touristic sims for visitors to use during their stay, which includes Internet data . Turkcell, Turk Telekom, and Vodafone are all reliable options, but the prices vary, and getting someone to speak English is not always possible.

Save yourself time and get an eSIM (or a regular SIM card) before you go, which means you’ll save time for more sightseeing instead of negotiating at the stores.

We suggest this eSIM for travel in Istanbul.

10. apply for an e-visa .

If you need a tourist visa, you need to know about visa rules. Depending on your country of origin, you may or may not need one.

Generally speaking, most countries can purchase an online tourist visa, which lasts 90 days out of every 180 days. Introduced in 2013, the Turkey eVisa is a popular option for travelers visiting Turkey for tourism. The process is online and speedy. Remember that this type of Turkish visa is only available for eligible countries.

Great news! As of 2024, tourists from the USA no longer need a visa to visit Istanbul – so you are free just to come and say hello.

11. Plan Your Trip Flexibly

Considering the variety of attractions like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, it’s a good idea to research and determine what you want to see; then, you can decide which part of Istanbul to stay in. However, don’t be too rigid with your planning because you might see something en route that you want to visit. Allow a little flexibility if you can.

12. Avoid Renting A Car

Traffic, crazy drivers, parking problems. Just don’t do it.

13. Know Airport Locations

There is more than one airport in Istanbul. So, one of the biggest Istanbul travel tips I can give you is to check which one you fly into and out of. 

Istanbul has two main airports – New Istanbul International Airport and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. Be sure to review which airport your flight is departing from before you go to the wrong airport. The Sabiha Gokcen Airport is on the Asian side, while the New Istanbul Airport is on the European side.

• Istanbul Airports Guide

14. Familiarize History, Politics & Religion

The country blends secular and progressive movements and regions that value more conservative practices. A great place to start learning about Turkey’s past is to read about Mustafa Kemal Atatürk – the founding father of the Republic of Turkey after the fall of the Ottoman Empire. 

Travel Tips For Cultural Etiquette And Practices

15. mosque etiquette.

There are many mosques in Istanbul, and if you want to explore (highly recommended), then make sure you’re prepared in terms of clothing. Most people want to visit the Blue Mosque at the very least, and it’s important to know what to expect.

So, ladies, you must cover your head (pack a pashmina or scarf) and ensure you’re modestly dressed. Shorts, leggings, and skirts are a no-no; if the attendant thinks you need to cover a little, they will give you a shawl to wrap around your middle and cover your legs.

Also, make sure that your shoulders are covered. Guys, the same goes for you – no shorts or vest tops.

You’ll be asked to remove your shoes, which will be kept safe while you’re inside. So, pack some socks in your bag.

16. Avoid Scams

There are a lot. So, make sure you check your bill before paying and highlight any mistakes to the waiter. If you’re traveling in a taxi, ask how much the bill will likely be before you get in, make sure the driver switches on the taxi meter, and if you feel that they’ve taken the scenic route for any reason, take the license number and report it.

Also, if a shoe shiner walks towards you and then seems to drop their brush “without knowing,” don’t assume they’ve accidentally done so. If you pick it up and offer it back, it basically means they’ll offer to shine your shoes “for free” as a thank you. It’s not free.

The list goes on. Just keep your wits about you, and you’ll be fine.

• Guide To Istanbul Scams
• Our Favorite Anti-Theft Travel Bags

17. Know The Drinks Scam

While this is not something that happens everywhere, you may find that you are given local drinks rather than international imports in some tourist resorts. In some cases, the products you find in the market in Istanbul can be of lower quality and, in some cases, may even be fake. The best advice is to drink bottled or draft beer and never leave your drink unattended. This is the same advice you’d received anywhere else in the world.

If you’re keen to drink spirits, such as vodka, make sure you ask if the vodka is a particular brand and, if possible, ask to see the bottle. You should still heed warnings about this, however, as you may find yourself on a rather dodgy stomach the next day; otherwise, at the very least.

18. Understand Local Timing

It’s never a good idea to assume that anything will be done on time in Turkey. This is known widely as “Turkey Time,” which means that if someone says they’ll be there in one hour, they usually mean an hour and a half at the very least! It’s infuriating at first, but you’ll get used to it; in the end, you might find it endearing or see yourself turning up on Turkish time yourself.

19. Learn Basic Language

Turks love it when you speak Turkish. While most young people in Turkey speak English, you may struggle to find English speakers if you head out of the main cities in Turkey and even into the main towns.

While you can find yourself an app to help your way through it, and most people rely on pointing and hand signals to communicate their needs, learning a few words of the language will make your visit easier and endear you to the locals.

Even a few words of Turkish can go a long way in helping you get around Istanbul. Try to learn some basic phrases before your trip, and look for signs written in English and Turkish.

Some basic Turkish to know is:

Hello – Merhaba

Goodbye – Güle güle

Please – Lutfen

Thanks – Teşekkürler

Good night – Iyi geceler

Good morning – Günaydın

Good evening – Iyi akşamlar

How are you? – nasılsın?

20. Respect Web Restrictions 

The most important banned sites you may try to access while traveling in Turkey are:

• Booking.com

You can use these sites before entering the country and even book hotels using booking.com ahead of time, but you will not be able to access the sites or book on them once in the country. 

If you are a traveler who enjoys making last-minute plans while on vacation, have an idea of sites you will use to book hotels and transport other than booking.com or set up a VPN.

21. Understand The Tut & Nod 

This is a strange one, but it’s certainly something you’ll see if you communicate with locals. When someone makes a tutting noise and then nods their head upwards, e.g., a backward nod, it means “no.” They’re not being rude or doing something strange; they’re telling you they don’t want whatever you’ve asked.

Brands We Use And Trust

Istanbul travel tips for finances, 22. avoid eating in tourist squares.

Actually, that’s a little harsh. Totally eat in Sultanahmet but avoid the tourist restaurants in Istanbul that offer ‘traditional’ Turkish cuisine. It’s traditional, but it’s not the best quality, and the prices are waaaaay higher. Know that in Istanbul, as with any international travel, there are many scams around .

If you want traditional food, head away from the tourist streets and perhaps ask in your hotel where the staff go to eat. Away from the touristy areas, places like Besiktas (located on the European side) and Kadikoy (located on the Asian side) have some fantastic traditional restaurants offering much nicer food at a lower price.

23. Carry Some Cash

Cards are widely accepted in Istanbul, and ATMs are everywhere, but small markets and stalls may only accept cash. So, have a little cash with you as you explore the markets in Istanbul, but don’t go overboard.

Not only will you lose out when converting your cash back to your home currency, but walking around with a large amount of cash is never safe in a large city, anywhere in the world.

24. Be Aware Of ATM Fees

Not all ATMs charge enormous fees, but there will probably be a small one, at the very least. Research this before you go, but know that your bank will likely charge a currency exchange fee even if you get away with an ATM fee. Just weigh up whether it’s worthwhile or not.

25. Understand Currency

Are you wondering, “What is Turkish money called”? The Turkish Lira is the official currency of Turkey. It is divided into 100 kuruş. The symbol for the Turkish Lira is TL. The Turkish Lira was introduced in 1864, replacing the Ottoman Empire’s currency, the kuruş. The Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye issues the Turkish Lira.

• A Guide To Currency In Turkey
• Where To Exchange Currency In Istanbul

26. Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in Türkiye, especially when dining in high-quality restaurants nationwide and in many other restaurants across Istanbul.

If a service charge/fee hasn’t been applied, it is customary to tip between 5-10% of the bill, depending upon how much you enjoyed the service you received. If you’re dining somewhere extremely high-end, a tip of between 10-15% is more likely. You should always tip in cash and leave the cash amount in the bill sleeve you will receive or give directly to the waiter.

• Complete Guide To Tipping In Turkey

Istanbul Tips For Health And Safety

27. travel insurance.

Because you never know. Istanbul tips for tourists often overlook this obvious tip. But Istanbul is not the place to be sick without insurance. 

• Our Suggested Travel Insurance

28. Locating Pharmacies

If you need painkillers, plasters, or anything else a pharmacy would generally sell, you need to look for an ‘eczane,’ which will have a red and white ‘plus’ sign lit up outside. They’re everywhere.

29. Drinking Moderately

It is legal to drink alcohol in Istanbul, but not in public spaces like parks. It is also taboo to drink excessively. Raki and wine are both quite common, and locals who partake in these beverages do so socially and in moderation. Be considerate of this, especially if you head to the Asian side of the city where things are more conservative. Here, you will find fewer establishments with alcohol licensing. 

30. Stomach Health Tips

This salty yogurt drink that most locals adore can be found in just about any restaurant, day or night. It’s got excellent probiotic properties and helps gut health during your travels.

Exploration And Sightseeing Tips

31. best time to visit istanbul.

Summer is a lovely time to visit Istanbul , but it’s also sticky and hot, and when you combine that with it being busy, it’s not a pleasant time. I always think winter is the best time to visit Istanbul; if you’re lucky, it might snow!

32. Explore Both Continents 

While most first-time visitors tend to stick around the European city side, do not forget about the equally fascinating Asian side of Istanbul – known as the Anatolian Side.

• Explore The Asian Side Of Istanbul

33. Plan At Least Three Days For Exploration

There are pros and cons to how many days are sufficient for Istanbul – but we suggest that a three-day trip to Istanbul would be enough to discover the main Istanbul attractions. Of course, more time is always best!

• Here Is How Many Days In Istanbul Is Enough
• 4 Days In Istanbul Itinerary

34. Enjoy Street Food

While I wouldn’t advise eating random food from a stall that looks unclean, on the whole, street food in Istanbul is very cheap and delicious.

Istanbul is known for its amazing food, and Istanbul tourist guides will show you which stalls are the best. 

I recommend you be sure to try some of the local specialties like kebabs , pide, kofte, borek, simit, nuts, sweetcorn, and lahmacun. Yummy! Wash it all down with a cup of Turkish coffee or tea.

• Our Favorite Istanbul Street Food

35. Take A Bosphorus Trip

Any good travel guide for Istanbul (like ours) will tell you to start your Istanbul adventure by taking a cruise on the Bosphorus River. This is one of the best ways to see Istanbul’s incredible skyline and get a feel for the city.

• Bosphorus Cruises We Recommend

36. Get The Istanbul Museum Pass

You can also buy a pre-paid Museum Pass, which allows you free or discounted access to museums and other attractions. You get to jump the queue, too, which is never a bad thing.

• Guide To The Istanbul Museum Pass

37. Offbeat Ideas

No travel to Istanbul would be complete without finding a few hidden gems . Here is a list of some off-the-beaten-path ideas in Istanbul for people who have been before:

• Aya Sofya: This former mosque, now a museum, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul, and it is visited even more during the peak season. It’s definitely worth a visit!
• Rüstem Pasha Mosque: located in the center of the city, this hidden gem is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and design
• Balat District: located on the Golden Horn, this part of town is known for its narrow streets and colorful houses. It’s definitely worth exploring! Read all about Balat here. 
• Suleymaniye Mosque: Built in the 16th century by master architect Sinan, this is a must-see place to visit while in Istanbul. grand mosque is one of the most impressive buildings in Istanbul.
• Yerebatan Cistern: an underground wonder, this massive cistern was once used to store water for the city of Istanbul

38. Sightseeing By District

Istanbul is big – really big! It’s hard to see everything in one trip. To better use your time, make the list of things you want to see and do, and then organize your list by location in the city. You can often knock multiple sites off your list at the same time this way. It also minimizes the time you spend in traffic throughout your trip.

• Istanbul’s Districts Guide

39. Arrive Early To Top Tourist Sites

Whether you have a Museum Pass or not, go early in the day if you’re visiting a top attraction. The queues for Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Dolmabahce Palace might look like they’re moving quickly, but they are always super long. Don’t waste your day standing in a queue.

Know Before Visiting About Your Stay In Istanbul  

40. wise hotel booking.

As you travel Istanbul, you will notice that Istanbul is massive, and if you stay somewhere super-cheap, you’re likely to be far away from the main action. And it might be terrible.

I’m not saying always stay in a posh hotel, but this is where you really do get what you pay for. Do some research into where the hotel actually is, and if possible, avoid places like Beyoglu or Taksim, at least if you want to sleep at night – nightclubs are open until around 7 a.m., and they’re LOUD.

Every time I travel to Istanbul, I am reminded that it has many different neighborhoods, each with its own character. Do some research beforehand to find an area that’s right for you.

Also, book ahead of time!

• Best Areas To Stay In Istanbul
• Hotels Near The Blue Mosque

41. Stay Away From Mosques If A Light Sleeper

Book accommodation that isn’t right next to a mosque if you happen to be a light sleeper. The call to prayer sounds are quite powerful and majestic, but it’s perhaps not something your half-asleep self will appreciate. Calls can start as early as 4 am and ring five times a day. So consider that when finding your boutique hotel.

42. Use Mosques For Public Restrooms

If you are in need of a bathroom, find the nearest mosque. These almost always have public restrooms attached and are generally exceptionally clean. 

Remember not to flush your toilet paper while in Istanbul!  Check to see if a small wastepaper basket is near the toilet seat or if there is a sign requesting paper be thrown instead of flushed. This helps keep the pipe system running.

Things To Know About Dining & Socializing In Istanbul

43. lokanta etiquette.

Lokanta are casual restaurants known for serving home-style meals to tradespeople and workers. They are found in most neighborhoods and are excellent places to grab some authentic Turkish cuisine.

However, these establishments turn tables over quickly in order to make a profit, so once your meal is done, settle the bill at a cash desk and head on your way.

44. Meyhane For Lunch

If you want to truly experience life in Istanbul, and linger over a meal of olives and meze, and find a methane. These sidewalk cafes are the opposite of Lokantas and are designed for guests to nibble on meze platters and sip raki while enjoying long conversation.

45. Understanding Meze Platters

When dining out, a server may pass your table with an excellent selection of meze bites: artichoke, eggplant, yogurt, etc. Often, these are not free, so keep that in mind before taking some.

Unique Experiences When You Go To Istanbul

46. enjoying sunsets.

One of the best spots in the city to take in a sunset is the Galata Bridge. You will get fantastic views of both sides of the city, plus you can enjoy the sun as it sinks over the Bosphorus. It’s magical and romantic and everything a sunset should be!

47. Organize Sightseeing

You can’t do it. You’re not a superhero, no matter what you think. Prioritize and then decide to visit again in the future. You’ll save your feet and your sanity.

• 5 Days In Istanbul
• 2-Day Istanbul Itinerary

48. Encountering Stray Cats

Istanbul is home to a million or more cats, most of which roam the streets or can be spotted near the local cafes. They tend to keep to themselves, but some will eagerly take a pat on the head. Istanbul has a no-kill, no-capture policy for these felines, so despite it not being what you’re used to, the cats live relatively unharmed and are fed by the locals who have taken on a community mindset in regard to their wellbeing.

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Special Istanbul Tips

49. visiting mosques during prayer times.

If the stunning Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque or any of the city’s other religious buildings are on your agenda, make sure to double-check the prayer times online before arriving. Most of the city’s mosques are open to tourists, but they close down to non-muslims during prayer times, at least 5-6 times per day. 

If you arrive during prayer time on your visit to Istanbul, you will have to wait in long lines until the building reopens to the public.

Note: Most mosques, such as the Blue Mosque, have no “fee”; however, you still have to wait in the security check lines when required.

As of January 15th, 2024, the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque has introduced a distinct policy for tourists and worshippers. If you’re visiting for cultural exploration, there’s now a 25 euro entry fee . This ticket grants you access to the gallery floor, where you can admire the sanctuary’s stunning Ottoman and Byzantine features, including the historic mosaics.

This new policy is all about balancing the preservation of this iconic site and enhancing the visitor experience while ensuring that daily worship remains undisturbed.

50. Mosque Visits On Fridays

The Jumu’ah prayer is a congregational prayer that occurs each Friday at noon. This prayer at the Hagia Sophia happens to get incredibly busy with active members, making it a tricky time to visit as a tourist. 

51. Taking Kids Along

There are plenty of activities for all ages in Istanbul, from kids’ parks to historical sites and museums.

• What To Do In Istanbul With Kids

This Istanbul travel guide is aimed to help you travel Istanbul like a pro! Did we do our job? All of this Istanbul advice will make sure you have a great (and safe) trip; of that, I have no doubt. 

Tips For Visiting Istanbul FAQs

What are the must-visit attractions in istanbul.

Istanbul offers a wealth of attractions. Some of the best places include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus Strait Cruise.

Is Istanbul’s city center a safe city for tourists?

Istanbul is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it’s essential to be cautious. Avoid crowded areas, be aware of your surroundings, and keep your belongings secure to prevent pickpocketing.

What is the best way to get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system, including trams, buses, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a convenient card to use for multiple modes of transportation.

What is the local currency in Istanbul?

The local currency in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY). It’s best to exchange your money at authorized exchange offices or withdraw from ATMs for the best rates.

Is English widely spoken in Istanbul?

English is spoken in tourist areas and establishments, but you might encounter limited English in more local neighborhoods. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can be helpful and appreciated, especially when asking for exchange rates.

Are there any cultural etiquettes I should be aware of?

When visiting mosques, dress modestly, and women should cover their hair . It’s polite to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. Avoid pointing the sole of your foot at someone, as it’s considered disrespectful to Turkish people.

What are some traditional Turkish dishes to try in Istanbul?

Don’t miss trying dishes like kebabs, baklava, Turkish delight, mezes (appetizers), and Turkish tea or coffee during your stay in Istanbul .

Phew, so I THINK that is everything you need to know before visiting Istanbul. If not, I’ll come back and update this post again with more helpful Istanbul tips, so be sure to bookmark it.

It is far too hard to list exactly what to do in Istanbul for a few days , as there is so much on offer. So, take your pick from the travel guides to Istanbul below, which each have top tips. These Istanbul guides will ensure your few days in this metropolis are a total blast.

• Exploring Istanbul With Kids Can Be The Best Istanbul Experience
• Istanbul Beaches
• Where To Eat In Istanbul
• Best Turkish Bath In Istanbul
• 16 Things To Do In Istanbul, Turkey
• Whirling Dervishes In Istanbul
• Your Guide To Sultanahmet Istanbul
• Top Palaces In Istanbul
• 48 Hours In Istanbul 
• Is Istanbul Safe
• 18 Best Mosques In Istanbul
• Istanbul Nightlife
• Shopping In Istanbul
• Where To Stay Longer In Istanbul
• Best Hotels In Taksim Square In Istanbul
• The Best Festivals in Istanbul
•  A Day In The Colorful Balat Istanbul
• Best Museums In Istanbul
• Top Hotels Near The Blue Mosque
• 5 Biggest Istanbul Tourist Scams To Avoid
• Best Turkish Breakfast In Istanbul
• Romantic Places In Istanbul
• Things To Do In Istanbul In Winter

Comments (2)

Thank you for the information, it’s very informative. I would like to know about transportation from the Airport to Hotel in the Old City, How safe it is for sole female travel.

Very safe! Honestly, the city is huge, and crimes against solo travelers is rare. You’ll love this city. Have a read through this it will help you https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/solo-in-turkey-solo-travel-for-women/

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50+ Practical Travel Tips For Istanbul to Make the Most of Your Trip

After living in the largest city of Turkey for more than a year, I thought it was finally time to share the most practical travel tips for Istanbul that help to plan a stress-free vacation and get the most out of your trip.

Istanbul is that destination where you need to come prepared. Plan in advance not only where to stay , what to see , and where to eat but to book in advance tours you like, transfers, shows, and excursions. You also need to know ahead of time where to go and areas to avoid, learn about the famous scams and activities. Leaving everything for the last day will cost you much in terms of time and money.

There are really many things to know about traveling in Istanbul and many things to tell. Of course, this vast city with a thousand-year history hides many untold stories and leaves a lot of questions. Answering those questions and sharing some hacks made me write the whole Istanbul tourism guide with many insider tips for first-time visitors, people on a short or long vacation, and everyone else who just wants to have the best Istanbul vacation! 

So get yourself a cup of tea and dedicate your tea time to some inspiration about Istanbul. Because this post is long! Learn everything you need to know before traveling to this amazing city on any visit. I include much advice, including Istanbul tips and tricks for tourists on a budget, for first-time travelers to Istanbul, and those who return after a long period of time.

And then if you fancy a read about some interesting facts about Turkish culture, check them out here . Also, find out about the common mistakes that tourists make when planning their Turkey holidays . Make sure to avoid them!

Quick Istanbul Insider Tips

Planning your trip to Istanbul last minute? If yes, here are the first-hand resources and insider tips that you’ll need!

Apply for E-Visa  

• Turkey E-Visa for individuals – check if you need it

Top Private Transfer from Istanbul Airport

• Meet & greet private transfer from IST airport or Sabiha Gokcen airport

Best Places (Locations) to Stay in Istanbul for Mid-Budget

• Zeyn Otel Istanbul (Sultanahmet – 9.6 )
• Walton Hotel (Galata – 9.4 )
• Room Mate Emir (Taksim – 9 )
• Ikiz Konak Boutique Hotel (Kadikoy, Asian side – 9.6 )

Top Tours in Istanbul  

• Evening Walking and Food Tasting Tour (best for short visits!)
• Tour Around Colorful Neighborhoods of Istanbul (small group tour!)
• Mosques of Istanbul Walking Tour (with expert guide!)
• Extraordinary Istanbul (best city tour!)
• Asian Side Uskudar & Kadiköy Tour with Lunch (with a boat ride)
• Best Bosphorus Cruise (skip the line!)

Other Useful Resources to Have

• Best Istanbul Car Hire – below I explain why
• Best Istanbul Pocket WiFi – unlimited 4G Internet
• Istanbul City Transport Card – for bus, metro, tram & ferries
• Istanbul Museum Pass – skip the line at the most famous sights

Must-Know Travel Tips For Istanbul Before a Trip

What is istanbul like.

Oh well, where to start, there are just so many things to know about Istanbul.

First of all, Istanbul is huge. It is a many-sided, multifaceted city which you can visit endless times because on every visit it opens up from a new angle. Some parts of it remind developed neighborhoods of Bangkok or Saigon. Others look more like somewhere in Europe and there are also other areas where mysterious Doha or old quarters of Dubai come to mind.

Istanbul has amazing ancient historic architecture, thousands of quirky cafes and restaurants, and incredible views that you can access from anywhere, in any part. 

This city, like many others that may come to mind, has its own smell and different neighborhoods smell in different ways. At the same time, it has many dirty, hectic, old streets and also very dangerous, sketchy-looking parts to avoid.

At times, Istanbul can be overwhelming with its sellers and bazaars, constant traffic, crowds of people, and noise from bars. And then, on other occasions, it is calming, exotic, and charming with all the cats, hospitable people, delicious foods, and a vibrant atmosphere.

In just this one city, you can live a very different life and have a different experience as a tourist, depending on the neighborhood and activities you choose.

Istanbul is a destination of incredible size. More than 15 million people live there on 2 continents while every day covering very long distances and spending time in traffic jams comparable to those in Los Angeles or New York.

Do not expect to find a distinct downtown or city center because there is none. Instead, Istanbul is divided into districts that have their own separate mini centers that are steeped in history and enriched with attractions.

This is why it’s best to make a plan of what you want to see and where you’re going to visit when you will be in the city. Istanbul is not a destination where you can go unprepared. It is absolutely not going to open up with a swoop, but instead can easily stun by the number of people on the streets or in the main tourist places as well as upset with tourist-oriented eateries and too annoying sellers.

Best Time to Travel to Istanbul 

The best time for Istanbul travel depends on the goal of your visit. While one season can be great for shopping or fewer crowds, it can be not the right time for cruises and sightseeing. So it all depends. 

However in general, no matter what’s the goal of travel is, the best season to visit Istanbul is spring and autumn. But to be more precise – April, May, September throughout November are the best months.

At this time, the weather is very pleasant, everything blooms (in November there is foliage), prices are noticeably lower, getting reservations is easy, and many festivals all over the city take place. And the best part –  crowds of tourists do not storm every landmark and religious site. 

I lived in Istanbul through all seasons and can say with confidence that spring and fall are really great for everything – for shopping, visiting palaces and museums, for walks in nature and even for some sunbathing if you wish. 

Summers are usually too hot (especially July and August) and overwhelmingly crowded. Winters are rainy and chilly. Although for us personally, for many reasons, winter is an absolutely wonderful time to be here ( and this is why ).

So if you try to understand what is the best time to travel to Istanbul, look at the second part of spring and the entire season of autumn.

Is It Safe to Travel to Istanbul?

What do you imply by “safe travel to Istanbul”? If there are no terrorist attacks, no pickpocketing or if it is safe enough to wear short skirts and tops or drink beer in the middle of the main square?

I know and remember how in 2017, there was an explosion near Sultanahmet Square and another explosion on Istiklal Street (a popular walking street with shops). Also, there was a shooting in one night club on New Year’s Eve and a terrorist attack at Ataturk Airport. Oh, and then another explosion near the Besiktas stadium after the match. Yeah, there were some terrifying events. 

In connection with what happened, Istanbul authorities started to increase the level of security in the city and since 2017 everything was quiet. The airports have enforced stronger security (it starts at the entrance, where the police inspect each car and also inside the airport where everyone is checked before entering the airport building).

In places of various events and crowds, there are always police officers. In Sultanahmet – the most popular tourist neighborhood in Istanbul, the police are always on duty. Istiklal Street and Taksim Square also always have police officers around.

That being said, Istanbul is a safe destination and welcoming to foreign visitors. But it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be aware of your surroundings. Of course, like any huge multimillion city, Istanbul has good areas and those that are better to avoid , scams, pickpockets, mugging, snatching, and crazy drivers take place too. But the same applies to Barcelona , Rome or Lisbon. 

Nowadays, the biggest problem in Istanbul is corruption but it won’t affect you as a tourist. We, after living here for a while, haven’t experienced any of that, although heard many stories from locals.

The best part about travel to Istanbul for tourists is the fact that this city is very open and receiving of different nationalities and cultures. No matter what your race, religion or culture is, you are very welcome. 

NOTE : When walking around the city you should probably have a copy of a document confirming your identity, no need to carry an original. 

How Many Days to Spend in Istanbul

I would put it this way. There are too many places in Istanbul that are worth seeing. One and two days are never enough. 

If you are visiting Istanbul for the first time , that’s the only city you plan to see in Turkey and your goal is in one trip to see as much as possible, then plan at least a week.

This is enough time to see all major attractions, explore one neighborhood at a time, visit a hammam (if you visited hammams in Marrakech , it will be a similar experience), get acquainted with local cuisine in full, go on a day trip to the Princes Islands or the Black Sea, and even drive a bit outside Istanbul.

If your goal is to travel to Turkey and only get a quick introduction to Istanbul, then the ideal time would be 3-4 days.

Honestly, only the main touristy attractions in Sultanahmet (such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi, one of the underground cisterns) will take the whole day, if not more. Then you can devote another day to a walk along Istiklal, Galata Tower, Karakoy , and a cruise along the Bosphorus. Another day – a walk through museums, parks, and/or other lesser-visited quirky neighborhoods. And you also must spend at least one day on the Asian side.

Two days is too little. One day in Istanbul is usually better than nothing when you are on a long layover. But don’t deliberately plan a trip for this time since this is definitely not enough. With only 2 days in Istanbul, you may even get a wrong impression of the city. 

I invite you to check my favorite Istanbul itineraries to choose the one which suits your needs better.

Do You Need a Visa to Istanbul?

Turkish government often changes visa rules for various countries. For example, some time ago many European countries, as well as travelers from the US, needed to apply for a visa in the embassy of their country. Then that rule was changed to visa on arrival but later it changed to e-visa obtained in advance.

Some countries are exempted from visas for their travels for up to 90 days like most countries in the Schengen Area and the United Kingdom. For Americans traveling to Istanbul (or Turkey in general) visa situation changes often. So make sure to always double-check the rules even if you think you know them. 

The website of the ministry of foreign affairs of Turkey has the latest information. And our favorite resource where to get a visa (and check if you need it at all) is this one . We use it every time to apply for Mark’s visa.

Depending on the nationality, the price of a visa is different but the process of applying is the same for everyone.

To anticipate a question about whether a visa on arrival is available, I’ll say that yes but my number one travel tip here is not to take this route. The reason for this is that airline staff often isn’t willing to register a passenger on a flight without seeing the visa first. And if you do manage to fly, you’ll end up paying $30 more at the border in Turkey than for the online application.

And What About Insurance, Do You Need Travel Insurance for Turkey?

Travel insurance as such – no, but medical yes. All visitors to Turkey are required to purchase medical insurance before they enter the country. There is no minimum amount required, however, the condition is to obtain insurance for the length of the entire trip.

From July 1, 2020, Turkish Embassy also recommends adding coverage for treatment in case of covid. It is not mandatory but recommended.

When you choose medical insurance, do not purchase the most basic package unless you are 100% sure about your health.

Medical services in Turkey, and especially in Istanbul, are quite expensive for foreigners (unless you speak Turkish and can pretend you are a local). There is always a ‘special’ rate for foreigners who pay 3-4 times more than Turkish people when visiting a clinic. 

Besides health insurance, it is always smart to add travel insurance which also covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, delays, evacuations in force majeure situations, and lost, damaged or stolen luggage.

For short or long trip medical insurance, I recommend referring to SafetyWing . We have been using this company for many years and like their seasonal deals and a good variety of policies available. Click here to get a quote from them . 

Where to Stay in Istanbul

Where to stay in Istanbul is a very important question to ask since it will determine the quality of your trip. Staying in the wrong area can spoil any vacation. You need to learn about each neighborhood and district and decide if it will suit your needs.

In this guide to areas in Istanbul you can learn what to expect from each neighborhood and how to understand which one is better for you personally. Some of the neighborhoods suit better families with children, others are best for budget travelers, party lovers or business people. Study up on this topic before making any reservations.

And don’t forget to read my posts on cool and unusual hotels  and Airbnbs in Istanbul . We stayed in some of them and I saved others to recommend on this blog. And here are a few more nice hotels that I like:

BEETHOVEN HOTEL & SUIT :  A beautiful, yet budget-friendly clean hotel with friendly staff, delicious breakfasts and great sea views from the restaurant. The location is great since it’s very close to the main sights in Sultanahmet and a tram stop is right there nearby. Reviews are great and ratings are high! Check them out. 

ZEYNEP SULTAN HOTEL : Clean, cozy and quiet hotel a few steps away from Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern. It is a perfect option for travelers on a budget who want to stay in the most famous part of Istanbul. Rooms have everything you need, including electric hot pots. Breakfast is served on a beautiful open terrace and in the evening, you can have tea and baked goodies.

THE MARMARA PERA : A stylish hotel in the area of Istiklal street , not far from the Galata Tower and Taksim Square. Being located in a busy neighborhood, this hotel is quiet and offers amazing views of Istanbul. There is also a rooftop pool and restaurant on the premises. 

GEORGES HOTEL GALATA : Boutique hotel on a quiet cobblestone street in the very heart of the city. Everything is nearby, the rooms are beautiful, the food is good, service is exceptional, and views from the rooftop restaurant and spectacular! We’ve been there twice and loved it, I am sure you will love it too! 

Why Not Forget to Pre-Book Your Accommodation

When planning a trip to Istanbul or any other popular tourist destination in Turkey, it is essential to pre-book your accommodation for a few reasons. First, because some resources for finding accommodation (like Booking.com for example) don’t work in Turkey. And second, because the best options are taken quickly.

Even if you use VPN or refer to another aggregator to book a hotel or flat, most of the time you’ll be left with not-so-good choices if booking accommodation at the last minute. Because best deals are booked well in advance. 

Turkey is one of a few countries where I personally reserve our accommodation ahead of time because I know if I wait for too long, we’ll be overpaying for poor quality. Particularly when planning travel for the prime season and summer. During those times prices also go up, so the same hotel will cost differently for the same dates if booked with a small time gap.

That being said, if you want to score your best accommodation option and not overpay, book it in advance and as soon as you like it. It is better to cancel it later if you find something else that you prefer more.

How to Get From Istanbul Airport to the City

At present time Istanbul has three airports but only two are open to commercial passenger flights – Sabiha Gökçen airport and IGA (often marked as IST). Getting to and from each of them to different parts of the city is pretty easy.

The cheapest (and very comfortable) way to reach Istanbul center from the airport is by bus, either by:

• Havaist bus that provides transfers from Istanbul (IST) airport to many areas of the city.
• Havabus  that runs between Sabiha Gokcen Airport and Kadikoy Pier or Taksim Square.

To find the Havaist bus in Istanbul airport after receiving the luggage, follow the signs indicating bus transfers. And if for some reason you don’t see them, then just look for the escalator going down (to the -2nd floor), where the Havaist buses stop. Besides the escalator, there is also an elevator.

To find the Havabus shuttle at the Sabiha airport, just proceed outside to the front part of the arrivals terminal, cross the road and you’ll find buses near the parking lot.

The fare depends on the distance of the route, so each route has its own ticket price. Prices start from $2 (that’s the price for the most popular transfers to Taksim square and Kadikoy) and payment is made on the bus by card or cash (in local currency if paying with cash).

If you prefer a private transfer with a meet and greet service, you can pre-book it online for a very reasonable price.

I also have a guide to Istanbul airport transfer from all airports if you’d like to get a more in-depth look. 

How to Get Around Istanbul 

Istanbul has modern and very diverse transportation. Some types of it are not very fast due to traffic jams but they are clean and safe. Istanbul has a metro, tram, buses, ferries, dolmush buses (shared taxis similar to marshrutka), and of course taxis with Uber. 

For us, who live in Istanbul for a few months each year, using local taxis and dolmushes is not a very pleasant experience and I am not sure it will be for you.

With taxis, it is not so much about the high cost as the possibility of fraud by unscrupulous drivers. While cabs are supposed to have meters, not all drivers use them. Those that do can take a longer route to get to a needed destination, in this way making a foreigner pay more. But I guess this is a common problem for many cities, Istanbul is not the only one. Also, as a rule, at night, taxis increase the tariff.

Dolmushes or as they are also called local shared taxis, operate on most routes. However, you need to know exactly which one to take and how much it costs. Since drivers don’t speak any English, there will be no chance to ask about the route and price. 

Another disadvantage of taking a taxi, dolmush or even a bus is traffic. It is a nightmare during peak hours every day. 

This is why the best way to get around Istanbul is by tram, ferry, metro, Marmaray, and Uber .

Istanbul metro is clean and extremely safe. All stations are equipped with security posts and cameras. Until recently, the metro worked from 6.00 to 00.00. However, now it works around the clock on the night from Friday to Saturday and from Saturday to Sunday. This is great news for nightlife activists. 

To find out how much each type of transportation costs and how to purchase tickets, see my Istanbul travel budget guide .

What to Wear in Istanbul

The question of the dress code for Istanbul constantly arises among tourists. I know that because I was asking myself hundreds of questions before my first trip. And until this day I have friends and family members who are constantly asking me the same.

When packing for Istanbul, you need to remember that despite the official status of Turkey as a Muslim country, most of the Turkish laws related to morals are based on secular ethics. In Istanbul, you clearly see the trends of Europe that have touches of the East. Jeans, blouses, dresses, ponchos, waistcoats, jackets are all popular here. Istanbul is not very conservative but Islamic traditions still influence local clothing.

The general law of the Turkish clothing style is maximum simplicity . Don’t wear too revealing clothes which show too much body. Although Turkish women may wear tight or fairly open outfits, women in short skirts and a low neckline may face condemnation and censure. You don’t need others to talk behind your back and point at you. 

If you are a woman, choose to pack elegant dresses , modest and neat outfits that cover the hips, shoulders, and upper arms . In colder weather in Istanbul, you can wear a sweater with long sleeves, a skirt, or a dress to the knees . If planning to visit mosques and don’t want to wear scarves given at the entrance, choose a hoody. A hood can cover your head instead of a scarf.

In summer, Turkish men and women rarely wear shorts outdoors. They prefer them only if the shorts reach a knee. If you don’t want to stand out as a tourist whom people will be staring at, try not to wear very short shorts in Istanbul. Also, this applies to both men and women, it is better not to wear sleeveless shirts on the street.

If you see a guy in Istanbul wearing bright colors, most likely that’s a tourist. Local men prefer the restrained colors of shirts and trousers – from white and black to several shades of cream and blue. Women, on the contrary, love to combine lots of bright colors. 

What to Know About Turkish Culture & Etiquette

Istanbul throughout its history has always been either the capital or an important trading center of many civilizations. Thanks to this, the city has absorbed completely different religions, cultures, customs, and architectural styles. It is home to representatives of 72 nations who have contributed to making Istanbul a cosmopolitan city.

Turkish people are generally very friendly and helpful. You may find some of them a bit intrusive and even cloying but that is just the wrong impression because they really try to be nice to all tourists and each other. That’s part of the culture.

They love music, parties, and getting together with families and friends in the evenings after work or during the weekends. This is why you’ll be noticing many groups of people by the sea or in the parks (or anywhere in the city where there is a green lawn) with their own camp chairs and tables, and food (and always sunflower seeds, haha). They can be spending hours having picnics or just enjoying a beautiful setting in each other company. 

For the same reason, there are tons of cafes, bars, restaurants, and just street food kiosks that are always full of people. Because the food culture in Istanbul is massive. It is customary to eat out and actually spend a good chunk of time in restaurants while slowly eating or prolonging the pleasure of tea drinking.  

Turkish people also have a reputation for politeness, so you’ll often hear ‘pardon’ on the streets of Istanbul or ‘teşekkürler’ (thank you) which they also expect to hear from others.

The culture in Istanbul is also very diverse, which is one of the many reasons why I love spending a few months a year there!

Besides Turkish rich cuisine, you can find cuisines of other nations together with various celebrations and festivals. There is always something going on in Istanbul, including the world’s largest conferences, forums, concerts, and shows.

Istanbul can definitely stand in line with such cities as London, Brussels, Amsterdam, Vienna , and others where life abounds around the clock and where you can feel welcome.

Istanbul Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors  

Know turkish money.

This isn’t really an Istanbul travel tip, more of a Turkey travel tip, but you still need to know that wrapping your head around the currency is all-important. 

In Turkey, the national currency is the lira. If you are wondering what money to carry with you, then it does not matter. You can come with dollars, euros, pounds, swiss francs. Many types of currency can be exchanged in banks or exchange offices. In addition to them, you can also exchange currency in chain stores (like Migros for example). There you will receive change in lira at a good rate.

The Turkish lira is very unstable and with each year keeps losing its value. This is why the exchange rate is always floating and it doesn’t even make any sense to write down here what it is. At the moment of updating this post, $1 equals 18 lira but it may change in a week or month. So I always recommend checking the rate closer to a trip once again.

Do not exchange money at the airport (unless you need a bit to pay for the bus) or at the hotel reception. The exchange rate there is always low.

Take Some Cash With You Before Arriving But Not Too Much

It will be smart to bring some cash with you instead of getting it from Turkish ATMs. Almost all of ATM machines charge a withdrawal fee in the amount of 5-7% and some give out money at a lower exchange rate. The fee comes either as a percentage or a flat rate, but you still get to pay a high amount for a transaction.

But the thing is, you don’t even need much cash in Istanbul. The payment system in the city is very well technologically advanced, so you can pay by card or contactless pay almost anywhere you go. Only except for some street food stalls, markets (although we paid by card there too), and small convenience stores.

This is why in order not to hustle, just take some cash with you from home and pay for the rest by card.

Other times when you’d need to have cash are when you want to tip, pay for dolmush or cab. In all other cases, you can do a cashless transaction.

In fact, in many places (like grocery stores or restaurants) there is even no limit set on card purchases. After so much time spent in Istanbul, I still can’t get used to the fact that in a store you can even pay by card for one tomato, which costs 20 cents.

Get Istanbul Transport Pass Right Away!

Istanbul is a city where public transportation can be expensive and cheap at the same time. It all depends on how you pay for it. If buying a ticket from the ticket booth every time before taking a metro, bus or tram, it’s going to be 35%-50% more expensive than when paying the fare with a transport pass called IstanbulKart .

There are many types of transport passes available but the best one for tourists is Anonymous IstanbulKart  which costs around $1.5 (25TRY) and comes without credit. It is great for couples or families who can use it for up to 5 people. With this card, you get a discount for each ride on public transport. Also, if making a transit within 30 minutes after the payment for the first ride, you’ll have another discount for the second ride, third, etc. 

It is well worth buying IstanbulKart even if you might use public transport only a few times. It’s not going to be only cheaper but will save you time. Lines for Marmaray, ferry or tram tickets are often long.

NOTE : You can buy IstanbulKart pass in many kiosks, newspaper stands, metro and ferry stations around Istanbul. It is also available via the yellow/blue vending machines by the majority of public bus stops and metro/ferry stations. Lately, also another option came up when pass is available for purchase online. Just type ‘IstanbulKart’ on Google Play or App Store to find out the details.

And then you can always order it online with a pre-charged travel balance for 5 or 10 journeys and have it delivered to your accommodation in the Taksim area or Sultanahmet. This is a very convenient service for travelers who have a short trip to Istanbul .

Buy a Sim Card to Make Things Easier

How are things in Turkey with mobile services and Internet for travelers? Well, that’s a good question. While buying a sim card is not a problem, the choice of options is very narrow. 

Turkey is not like many other countries where sim cards are either free or very cheap to get. Quite the opposite, they are on the more expensive side and have some limitations. Yet, you’d still want to purchase one to stay in touch without restrictions and overpayments.

So the thing that you need to know is that Turkey has 3 main mobile operators which are TurkTelekom, TurkCell, and Vodafone. Each of them has almost identical list of services and a similar cost. Internet speed level and connection quality are the same.

The only feature that makes Vodafone stand out is their “like at home” rate which has some great benefits for those tourists who already have a SIM card from Vodafone in one of the European countries. Other than that, it offers the same packages as other companies. All mobile operators are good enough and which one to choose depends more on personal preference. 

On average, the most popular package for tourists that includes decent internet coverage, some minutes and messages costs around $20. The duration of this sim depends on the country of origin a tourist is from. Since some nationalities are allowed to enter Turkey for different duration (from 1 to 3 months), the expiration date of a sim card will depend on that. 

Besides a sim card, many people also choose pocket wifi . While this is a much more expensive option, it is very reliable and easy to get (by delivery). It works best for short-term visitors who come for a maximum of up to 2 weeks and also need to work remotely while on their Istanbul vacation. 

Download These Helpful Apps Before You Travel

Use your phone not only for taking photos but as a personal travel guide by downloading these apps that are very helpful on a trip to Istanbul:

• Google App – particularly a ‘translation’ feature where you can translate anything with your camera. Very convenient when you need to translate quickly signs on the street, menus, items in the grocery store, etc.  
• Google Maps App – is very precise about transportation schedules and routes as well as traffic gems. Download a map of Istanbul so you can use it without data when offline.
• Uber – officially back in Turkey and is slightly a cheaper alternative to taxis. 
• BiTaksi – Turkish version of Uber which is very popular among locals. It will help you get a cab in less than 5 minutes and you can pay for a ride with a card.
• Yemeksepeti – the most popular app in Turkey for ordering food (in case you don’t feel like eating out) with the biggest database of restaurants. Everything gets delivered within 15-30 minutes.
• Getir – alternative to yemeksepeti that let’s you do grocery shopping online and all other items that are on sale in grocery store, be it dog’s food, hygiene products or even basic clothes.  

Stay as Centrally as You Can Afford

Different people have different views on this tip for the Istanbul trip . Some may advise staying further out and taking advantage of Istanbul’s extensive, cheap, and reliable public transport system. While others will recommend fancy but distant neighborhoods like Nisantasi in Sisli, Besiktas, Balat , or even Sultanahmet. 

My mind is set differently. I’ll keep saying again and again that you should stay as centrally as you can afford. And none of these neighborhoods is central.

When you’re trying to see as much of Istanbul as possible, you want somewhere that’s well-connected, from where you can get to other parts of the city within equal time without too many transfers, and from where you can walk to many of the sights without using transportation. 

For the first trip to Istanbul , I recommend staying in Karakoy, Eminonu, Cihangir , Kabatas, and the area around Galata Tower. But you can also read my extensive guide to the best areas in Istanbul  to help you choose the best neighborhood where to stay. 

Do Not Drink Tap Water in Istanbul

Tap water in Istanbul is not safe to drink. The reason for that is the amount of chlorine and alkaline substances in it which are added in increased concentration not safe for drinking. Most government officials claim that the water pumped into the city is within the safety standards, yet they also talk about the higher levels of chlorine added to water to kill the bacteria.

Another reason not to drink tap water is the old pipeline system which has a high level of lead and rust.

There are two ways out of this situation – buy bottled water or use city fountains with drinking water. There are quite a few fountains in the city center and the water there is coming from underground springs. It is clean and you shouldn’t worry about drinking it.

For bottled water, it is cheaper to buy bigger (5 or even 10 liters) canisters. 

Learn Some Basic Turkish to Make It Easier to Communicate 

I get that. Trying to learn even a few words and sentences in a new language can be tough. But if you put some effort, it can be very helpful for many reasons. People in any country always appreciate when foreign guests try to speak the local language even with 1000 mistakes and a horrible accent.

In Istanbul, Turkish people will be amazed and grateful for that even more.

If you already speak a few languages, picking a few words in Turkish will be easy. Even if you don’t speak any foreign languages, don’t assume that Turkish is hard. In fact, it is not. Learn the alphabet which will help you read a lot of words and remember that all words in Turkish are read the way you see them with emphasis on the last syllable . 

Some useful phrases that you might want to learn before your trip to Istanbul and Turkey in general include:

MERHABA – Hello 

PARDON – Sorry

LÜTFEN – Please

TEŞEKKÜR EDERIM – Thank you very much 

NE KADAR – How much?

Be Meticulous When Packing Your Suitcase

Besides those tips on what to pack for Istanbul that I mentioned above, you should also remember a few others.

First one is that pharmacies (Eczane) in Istanbul, and throughout Turkey, do not work at night and on Sundays. Usually, they are open from 09:00 to 20:00 on weekdays. There is only a small number of “pharmacies on duty” that work at night and on Sundays and the addresses for them can be found on any door of a pharmacy that is closed during this time.

With a big number of pharmacies around each corner, buying most medicines is very difficult since they need a prescription. This is why do not forget to pack a first aid kit with the essentials and travel medical insurance.

Those who love taking a bath should bring along a  universal bathtub drain stopper (no kidding). If you plan to take a bath in Istanbul (or in Turkey in general) then such devices are practically not available (except for luxury hotels).

Also, it is difficult to find an insect repellent on sale in Istanbul (and during summer evenings bugs will definitely bother you). If traveling in summer, don’t forget to take it along with sunscreen and a hat. The sun here is merciless, and you can burn in literally half an hour. 

Visit Mosques & Churches for Free!

And here is my Istanbul tip for tourists who love seeing religious sites – remember that all functioning mosques and churches are free to visit.

With more than 3,360 mosques in Istanbul among which some are true architectural masterpieces, you shouldn’t miss an opportunity to see the most significant of them. At any time on any day, all mosques are open to all tourists except for the time during prayers.

This means that one of the most famous mosques (actually Byzantine churches in the past) Hagia Sophia is also free to visit now (good news to budget travelers!). It has been turned into a mosque since 2020 and the entrance fee was dropped.

You can read more about the most beautiful mosques and religious sites in Istanbul to decide which ones to add to your Turkey itinerary . And scroll down to find out about the etiquette for visiting mosques.

All churches in Istanbul that are active (not museums) also do not charge any entrance fee. Although many of them open only for service time, on Sundays and Christian holidays.

Helpful Istanbul Tips and Tricks for the Best Experience

Always bargain when shopping in the markets .

When buying something in Istanbul bazaars, be sure to bargain. In this way, you won’t only reduce the price (which is initially very high), but also pay tribute to local customs. Bargaining is part of a local culture and every local does it.

In order to successfully haggle in Istanbul (and all over Turkey), you need to prepare a bit for this exciting process.

On arrival, do not rush to buy things in the first shop you come across. In the beginning, get acquainted with prices in the market. In Turkey, prices for everything are always and everywhere too high. So it would be smarter to visit at first at least 3-4 stores to get an idea of how much things cost and only then return to the store where you intend to buy something.

When entering the store, do not rush to demonstrate your interest in the item you like. Try to behave as indifferently as possible. Act like you don’t need anything and pretend that you are just looking around without a goal to shop.

Istanbul markets never have price tags, so the best discount to aim for ranges between 20-80%, depending on the product. Among all items on the market, leather products are most of all overpriced up to 80% when prices for excursions or souvenirs are only 20% higher. Feel free to tell any price you want and then go from there.

But no matter what, remember this one important tourist advice – in no case should you say anything negative about the product. If you don’t like it, better regretfully say that you cannot afford it.

If you don’t feel comfortable haggling, then better go shopping at malls and shops. There is no shortage of them. 

Do Not Skip Asian Side

Many tourists who visit Istanbul mainly concentrate on the European side of the city, skipping the charms of the Asian side full of many cute neighborhoods. Even if you are on a 2 or 3-day trip to Istanbul, find time to hop on a ferry from Karakoy or Eminonu and go at least to Kadikoy.

“Asia” of Istanbul is a long strip of land that stretches along the coast of the Bosphorus and is conventionally divided into three main regions – Kadikoy, Uskudar , and Beykoz. Each of them is full of hidden gems and authentic treasures. Although the easiest one to visit is Kadikoy as it is well connected with many neighborhoods on the European side.

In fact, Istanbul actually began as an Asian city in the oldest district of Kadikoy. Its progenitor was the ancient city of Chalcedon, which the Dorians founded even before the creation of the mighty Byzantine Empire in 680 BC. e. From that time, streets with descriptive names like ‘Moda’ (meaning fashion), ‘Sanatkarlar’ (craftsmen) or ‘Antik’ (meaning antique) and many markets have been preserved here.

And today they have a huge historic value for the tourists. So the oldest settlement on the Asian side today is a rich, spacious and respectable area where people come to take a break from the bustle of old Istanbul.

Do Not Bother Driving

Driving in Istanbul is a headache I really wouldn’t put yourself through unless you absolutely have to. But you really don’t need to thanks to a wonderful transportation system. 

During the time when I lived in Istanbul and since then when I return for 2-3 months each year, I rent a car only on those days when Mark and I go to the Black Sea coast, on a day trip south or east, or when we want to road trip to Fethiye or Bodrum .

If you also want to go on a few day trips from Istanbul and see what is there outside the city, the best company to rent a car is DiscoverCars . It is a great pick for people on a short Istanbul holiday as all companies listed on their aggregator are located at the airport, service is wonderful and prices are the lowest. Getting to the airport is always easy and quick and companies work around the clock.

There is also another company that I like to rent from that represents only local agencies but they work better for other goals. You can read more about it as well as about all driving tips in my guide to car rent in Istanbul and Turkey .

Take a Day Trip Out of Istanbul

In continuation of my previous thought – I strongly encourage you to go out of Istanbul and learn more about Turkey through a visit to another destination. Particularly knowing how many cool places are easily day-trippable from the big smoke.

One of Princess Islands , for example, is the first one that should be on your list. With its age-old architecture, dreamy beaches, and easy access, you can add it to your itinerary without too much extra planning.

Among other places, some of my favorites are Garipce village and Kumkoy on the European side of the Black Sea coast, Silivri with organic farms, Anadolu Kavağı, and others that you can find in my guide to self-guided daycations from Istanbul.

Use a Bosphorus Ferry Instead of Taking a Bosphorus Cruise

There are plenty of touristy yacht cruises plying the Bosphorus Strait. Like a guided half-day Bosphorus cruise or a longer version of a day cruise with lunch . There’s nothing wrong with them and they have their own benefits. But did you know that you can hop on a public ferry from one continent to another and pay less than for a cup of cappuccino?

It’s one of the best Istanbul tips for tourists that many people don’t know about.

When you get to Istanbul, you’ll notice how many vessels loaded with passengers scurry along the shores on a daily basis. Some of those vessels are public ferries while others are private ones on a tour. 

You also want to experience a public ferry ride and see the city from the water. It is one of the must-do things in Istanbul that doesn’t cost much. And if budget with time allows, only then go on a private cruise. 

TIP : For the best experience with a public ferry, at the port, buy some Turkish delight or baklava, and on the ferry order Turkish tea in miniature glass cups. Also, stock on bread and feed the seagulls. They are going to be an amazing addition in your photos.

Do Not Book Your Accommodation Near the Mosque if You’re Not an Early Person

You can easily apply this Istanbul advice to any other city in Turkey, really. If you don’t want to ruin your trip, then before booking accommodation, check if there is no minaret with loudspeakers to your hotel or Airbnb.  

Being anywhere near the mosque means that Azan will wake you up every single night. Since almost all mosques have loudspeakers that are used five times a day (sometimes even more) and they are so powerful, everybody within a 5 km distance can hear the message.

The earliest prayer is performed at dawn (the time depends on the time of the year) and usually lasts between 20 to 30 minutes. The second call to prayer takes place in about 2 hours right after that which will be waking you up again. 

Even though the first early Azan is incredibly melodic, it still serves as an alarm clock for everyone in close proximity. Especially for those tourists who come from small quiet towns or countryside.

In fact, one of the most unique things to do in Istanbul is to get up in the middle of the night and head to a nearby mosque to listen to the call to prayer and watch others come for prayer. But waking up every night because of it can be somewhat stressful for most people.

Not all mosques have loudspeakers. So to be completely sure, you’d need to contact the host to clarify this question if you see a mosque on the map near the potential accommodation. 

Remember About the Cats When Booking a Place to Stay

My other Istanbul insider tip is specifically for people who are allergic to cats as cats’ culture in this city is enormous and they are always kings.

Cats are really everywhere and they seem to have their own life separate from people. Today, interestingly, cats are one of the attractions of Istanbul to that point when “pat and feed attraction” is even included in the tourist list of “must do” things in Istanbul.

Only here, in this city, visitors can get cats’ food in special vending machines in exchange for plastic waste. Only here, the mustachioed tabby cats are regarded as community pets who are allowed everything. They can jump on a table in a cafe, walk into someone’s house, steal food from merchants, or lie down in the middle of the sidewalk. No one will ever think to drive them away or do anything harmful. In Islam, there is a belief that the one who killed the cat will beg for forgiveness from God only if he builds a mosque.

So, no matter what you think of cats, you need to get used to the fact that they will be surrounding you in Istanbul everywhere. Also, that many people owe cats and rent their flats out to others who come with cats on a vacation too.

Due to this, many hosts don’t clean their homes for pet allergies. Most just do a regular cleaning that even worsens a problem for sensitive guests.

I lived in many apartments around Istanbul and in each of them, there were cats. I knew it right from the first minutes after crossing the threshold of the house. One time it was so bad that we asked a host to arrange a deep pet-allergen cleanup.

Thus, if you are severely allergic to cats too, you need to make extra preparation for a visit. First of all, don’t be afraid to contact the host and let them know about your allergy and second, don’t forget to pack antihistamines. 

Try to Avoid Staying Near Taksim If You Love Peace & Quiet 

When it comes to accommodation, my number one Istanbul tourist advice for everyone who loves quietness is not to stay near Taksim Square and Istiklal street. The Taksim area almost never sleeps and is always incredibly loud.

With all the bars and restaurants where music is on until 5 am and with constant crowds and noise, you won’t be able to sleep. Even soundproof windows won’t help.

Staying in Taksim is great for party lovers and everyone who is planning to stay up all night long. Others, especially those who travel to Istanbul with kids, should avoid this area. Come to visit but not to stay.

Do Not Start Your Day With Coffee & Don’t Drink It With Milk

My other Istanbul advice for tourists is about the famous Turkish coffee. In Turkey, people take coffee seriously and believe brewing it is a form of art.

They never drink it before breakfast or with milk. Local baristas keep their recipes a secret and claim that you can brew the right coffee after you have already done it 300 times. Before that, it’s just continuous training.

If you want to feel like a local, don’t drink coffee first thing in the morning. Have it after breakfast or better leave for early afternoon. Instead, start your morning with traditional black tea (cay) in a tulip-shaped tea glass. 

Be Sure to Indulge in a Street Food in Istanbul

When it comes to food, my all in all Istanbul tip for tourists – you have to try the street food! And not only if you are a budget traveler. 

The street food scene in Istanbul is incredibly rich (as rich as street food in Vietnam  or local eats in Ubud ) and inexpensive. There are hundreds of cafes that don’t look very presentable but the food they offer is heavenly.

For the most part, street food in Istanbul has a high standard of hygiene (except for several individual sellers but you can easily spot them) and is fresh. Many times, it is also as good (or even better) as restaurant food .

Some of the must-try Istanbul street food picks are : pilav with various toppings, kumpir (stuffed baked potato), grilled corn and chestnuts, kokorec (sandwich with lamb or goat intestines), gozleme (flatbread with different fillings), icli Koftecisi (Turkish type of meatballs), borek (pastry with cheese, potatoes or spinach) and balik ekmek (fish sandwich).

One of the best ways to learn about the food, especially if you are short on time, is to join a food tour. I personally had a chance to go on two tours 10 tastings of Istanbul and a food tour on two continents . Both of them taught me a lot about Istanbul’s food even though I spent so much time in the city discovering food scenes on my own.  

Oh, And Don’t Skip Breakfast

Where, where, but in Istanbul, you just can’t skip breakfast! 

Because Turkish breakfast in Istanbul is a whole ritual of delicious food and small plates. It is popular both at home and in cafes with restaurants, and the main day for breakfast is Sunday. Since Sunday is a day off and there is an opportunity to gather with the whole family while taking it slowly.

The first meal of the day in Istanbul is always filling although not always expensive. You can choose one of many foods or go with the largest plate suitable for your budget, the choice is big! Just follow my tips for Turkish breakfast ideas to understand what people eat in Istanbul in the morning.

And remember one golden rule – many cafes serve breakfast all day long!

Istanbul Tips for Tourists to Make Things Easier

Purchase istanbul museum pass.

Almost every European city sells museum passes that save on entrance tickets to some attractions or give discounts on them, offer different bonuses and the right to travel for free on public transport. Istanbul is not an exception here.

Its Museum Pass, which is valid for 5 consecutive days, allows visiting many municipal museums together with some major historical monuments without a queue and for free.

However, among all Istanbul hacks, this one will work best for people who plan to spend at least 3 days in the city and complete a program “maximum” during each day. The card is especially helpful during the high season when queues are very long at many attractions and you don’t want to waste time waiting.

To save time and not stand in line for a card, you can buy it online and use its QR code on the mobile at the entrance to sites. And to learn more about the pass, its alternatives, and evaluate if buying it is going to make much sense for you, read my review of the Istanbul museum pass .

Do Not Forget Comfortable Shoes

Istanbul is called the “City on Seven Hills” for a reason. The Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires built Istanbul on 7 hills that make up the historic parts of the city today. Besides hilly neighborhoods, many streets are either cobbled or have relief stones. This in turn makes walking a bit harder.

Considering this and the fact that Istanbul needs to be explored on foot, you need to take care of comfortable shoes. Do not take shoes with heels, on a large platform, and flip-flops for summer. Pack comfortable footwear.

The ‘most challenging’ hills are in Kabatas/Galata area as well as in Besiktas. To conquer some of them, you can always hop on the old tram or underground funicular (Tunel). This Tunel is the second oldest subway in the world (after London) with the shortest subway line. Located in the European part of Istanbul, it serves to simplify and speed up the movement of passengers between two areas – Galata, which was once the financial and commercial center, and Beyoglu, the heart of social life.

Here is Where to Find Public Bathrooms in Istanbul

There are no problems with finding a bathroom in Istanbul. Toilets are everywhere in tourist places, including almost every cafe with the exception of small tea shops or kiosks.

You can find free toilets in:

• Museums and culturally significant places and parks. Almost all parks have free public toilets.
• Close to some bus stops that have attached shopping centers (free public bathrooms are inside centers and you need to go through the entire hall to find it).
• In all mosques.

Public toilets cost less than $0.50 (3-5 TRY) and you can pay with IstanbulKart (in many) or cash. You’ll find them:

• At some metro stations, underground passageways, and near major stops. For example, there is a public toilet in Gulhane Park, next to Sultanahmet Square, in the passage under the Galata Bridge. Another one is near the Kadikoy metro station (across the road). 
• At railway and bus stations.

Things to Know About Visiting Istanbul Mosques & Religious Sites 

If on your trip you are planning to visit mosques (which most tourists do), at the entrance you must take your shoes off. If you are not wearing socks, take them with you. Dress as modest as possible: cover your shoulders, legs, and head (for women).

Keep in mind that it is forbidden to eat or drink inside mosques as well as to speak loudly, laugh or do anything else that attracts attention.

It is not recommended to stand by or walk in front of people in prayer. Also, never ever take pictures of those who pray or wash before/after the prayer.

No one is allowed to visit mosques during the prayer at noon. It is better to visit between services. For example, in the Blue Mosque, visiting hours are from 8:30–12:45, 14:00–16:45, 17:45–18:30.

By the way, it is better to find out in advance about the schedule when mosques are open. It changes every season and each mosque has its own hours. 

Pay Attention to What You Take Photos Of

Many tourists, carried away by capturing pictures on a trip, do not pay attention to what falls into their frame.

In a Muslim country, it’s worth looking around. In Istanbul (and anywhere in Turkey), it is not recommended to photograph women in black hijabs and ask men for permission to take photos of them.

For various reasons, sometimes, it is not allowed to take photos and videos near some mosques, on the territory of ancient temples, and in excavation zones. You can always find out about the ban by carefully looking around – a sign with information on photos should be nearby. Respect that and don’t take pictures on the sly if there is a warning not to photograph.

Also, photos and videos are not allowed anywhere near military bases. You can get a fine and deportation for this mistake.

Don’t Forget About Tipping  

During our time in Turkey, we learned that this country is almost like the United States in terms of tips. People who work in service don’t make enough and depend on tips a lot.

Although gratitude in the form of money is not required, it is very much appreciated. Waiters, hotel porters, guides often expect a tip in the amount of 10-20% of the amount you pay (street food places don’t count). Taxi drivers expect that the amount will be rounded up.

In Turkish baths (hammams), it is customary to add a fourth part of the invoice amount to encourage all attendants. And you will definitely not forget about it as all of them will gather before your departure, waiting for the tips.

Again, you don’t have to leave anything on top of your bill. So don’t feel pressured and don’t overthink it but it is a nice gesture.

We personally tip only in those cases when we are happy with the service. 

Tip For Tourists on a Budget – You Can Explore Istanbul For Free

If you have a limited budget, keep in mind that you can get acquainted with Istanbul for free. This city has many attractions that you can visit without paying a dime.

For example, if you want to learn how Ottomans lived then I advise you to get around the Yildiz palace and park complex . This area is full of ancient Ottoman houses and offers incredible views of the Bosphorus. And the best part – all of that is absolutely free.

For lovers of intellectual activities, the Elgiz and Doganchay museums on the European side of Istanbul don’t have any fees. The first museum contains works of famous European and Turkish masters. The second exhibits paintings, sculptures, photos, and drawings by a modernist artist, in whose honor the museum is actually named.

Another free thing to do in Istanbul is to go on a free walking tour (or almost free). While you don’t need to pay anything for the tour, guides still expect some remuneration in the form of tips. In the end of a tour, you can decide on the amount convenient for you.

We personally like this company with free walking tours but there are a few others offering similar routes.

An Egyptian bazaar is also a great option for those on a budget who want to plunge into the atmosphere of the East. Spices and dry fruits, nuts, cheeses, sweets – you can find so many tasty things there on the cheap. A nice bonus is that you can taste the goods for free, so having a walk around the market gives you lots of impressions and snacks. 

Istanbul Travel Advice on What Not to Do (!)

Do not call istanbul constantinople & don’t talk about greece.

Officially, Istanbul became Istanbul and not Constantinople in 1930, 7 years after the establishment of Turkey as a country. But unofficially, Istanbul stopped being Constantinople in 1453 when it was conquered by Turks and became the capital of the Ottoman Empire. 

Calling Istanbul Constantinople is wrong and it can cause negative feelings among the locals. So don’t do it when having a conversation with locals or even with a tour guide (who is a Turk). 

Besides that, try not to talk about Greece (Greeks and Turks have a long-standing tense relationship), express ill will towards Turkish sultans and any political figures, argue about Kurds and Turkish Cypriots, and never express any negative feelings about the Turkish flag or language. 

Do Not Question Others How They Feel About Mustafa Ataturk 

Most likely you won’t even know who this man is or how much he transformed Turkey as a country. But you will definitely see his photos around the city everywhere you go. A lot of people keep his picture on the wall in restaurants, cafes, barbershops, hospitals, schools, government institutions, and even guest houses. It can be a small picture or a big poster on the door, wall, or on the outer side of buildings.

Ataturk was the founder of the Turkish Republic and the first president of the country. He grew up in Ottoman Thessaloniki in present-day Greece and came to prominence for his role during World War I.

Because of him, Turkey became the secular, industrial nation that we know today. Yet, not everyone accepted all the changes he made and not everyone supports him today. Talking about Ataturk is a bit sensitive topic. People, no matter how they feel about this important man, get very passionate when discussing him. 

Don’t get them started. If you are eager to learn about that time in history, better visit a fantastic Ataturk museum where you can find answers to a lot of questions. 

Additionally, remember that criticizing, negatively speaking or making jokes about Ataturk’s monuments and images is considered an insult. And for that, even guests can go to jail. Also, besides the Ataturk topic, do not start conversations about the situation with refugees and religious issues.

Do Not Visit Only Galata Tower For the View

Galata Tower, an icon of the Beyoglu district and one of the main landmarks of Istanbul, is definitely beautiful. But if you are coming on a short visit and thinking to climb the Galata Tower for the panoramic opportunity, it can be a waste of time.

First of all, because this most touristy attraction takes some time to get in with tens of thousands of tourists who compete in speed and arrogance. In the summer, its tiny panoramic balcony gets packed with people who push and squeeze each other in annoyance, and in winter it gets just very cold there. Second, there are many more fascinating locations nearby that offer incredible views of Istanbul. 

Visiting Galata Tower is a great activity if you have more time to spend in Istanbul and combine this visit with a trip to other panoramic locations that actually offer a view of Galata itself. Like one of many parks that have amazing views or panoramic restaurants and cafes. One of them just nearby is Balkon Restaurant & Bar or a bit farther a Kat Restaurant . 

Do Not Travel to Istanbul For the Beach Vacation 

A lot of people who plan a trip to Istanbul believe that in this one city they will be able to experience everything – from ancient sites and delicious food to hiking and beaches. While the first two are two, the last one will not live up to your expectations.

Yes, Istanbul has access to two seas. But beaches are not something that this city is famous for.

If you are interested in beach vacations, try to add a few days to your trip and venture to one of these best beach destinations from Istanbul . Some of them, you can reach in about an hour.

Those who have at least a week in Istanbul and still want to spend a day by the water should check the beach near the Florya Sahili Park, Caddebostan coast in Kadikoy neighborhood , beaches of Princes Islands, Marmara Island, Avsa island, Kumkoy on the Black sea, Sile and Agva towns.

Do Not Pick Up a Shoe Brush That Shoe Cleaner Dropped 

I would like to conclude my Istanbul travel guide with one of the biggest scams that many tourists fall for until this day. My family became a victim of this scam too and lost a big sum of money. This scam comes from shoe cleaners and their “trick” of dropping a shoe brush.

Istanbul is famous for shoe cleaners who usually “hunt” near the main tourist routes. They “accidentally” drop a brush naturally in the sight of tourists expecting someone to pick it up. And, of course, there is always a tourist who falls for this trick trying to help by picking up the brush and giving it to a cleaner. 

You don’t want to pick that brush! It is a trap! After you let the cleaners know he dropped a brush, he’ll do his best to impose an unnecessary shoe shine on you and then, in the end, ask for an incredibly high amount of money for it. In case you don’t pay or if you argue, he can attack and forcefully take your money.

Stay away from shoe cleaners and don’t do anything when seeing them drop a brush or any other item. 

Alright, so this is my list of 45 ultra-practical travel tips for Istanbul. They are meant to answer a lot of questions and help make your Istanbul trip more enjoyable. Knowing them will help you master the art of Istanbul travel and plan an amazing vacation!

And then if you are looking for more Istanbul travel advice, I have a load of it here ! 

Similar Posts in Other Regions 

• Visiting Morocco For the First Time – 10 things to know before you go
• First Time in Dubai – my travel tips & things to do
• First Time in Kenya – things to remember & safety advice

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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Great post, super informative! I would love to travel to Istanbul someday!

Thanks for all the amazing suggestions. I have been to Istanbul but have not experienced half of those things. I did enjoy all the markets!

Istanbul is huge, it’s difficult to experience everything at once! I guess you have a reason to return 😉

I loved Istanbul so much and I am so sad I didn’t get the opportunity to read your article before going there. You gave so many good tips that would have made my trip even better! Thanks for sharing!

I am so glad to hear you found these tips helpful!

Hello. Good tips for a nice trip.

But I had a bad experience in Istanbul and I don’t recommend a trip to this city.

I landed on the night of 10/17/2022 at Istanbul Airport (IST). Before the flight, I purchased a transfer service through Booking.com for the transfer from the airport to the hotel, for 32 pounds sterling.

Upon arrival at the airport, I did not meet the driver at the agreed location (exit 13) and spoke with a driver who was there. I showed him the name and phone number of the person who was supposed to pick me up. He called then and on the other end of the line someone impersonated the driver who was supposed to pick me up, saying that there was a mistake and that I should make the ride with the one I had found. A price of 3590.00 Turkish Lira was placed and payment would be accepted by credit card. As I was very tired, it was late at night and I didn’t know the rate of the Turkish lira, I accepted it. On leaving the airport, the local called a colleague to accompany the trip.

On the way, they stopped at the first ATM and I was forced to withdraw the money. At that moment, I saw that it was a coup and that my life was in danger. Upon arriving at the hotel, I took a photo of the license plate and asked the receptionists for help. I couldn’t sleep that night. The next morning I went to the tourist police station. I told the policeman what had happened and he only said that he would contact the owner of the vehicle and talk to him about returning the money.

On the night of 10/19/2022, a representative of the vehicle owner went to the hotel and the hotel manager brokered the contact and negotiation. The two, representative and manager, said it would only fit me 85.00 euros as there would be fees to cover. I paid the equivalent of 225.00 euros for the criminal race and received only 85 euros at the end. No policial report was registered. I was coerced and robbed. This is all completely absurd. Crime and impunity prevail there. Uber doesn’t work in the city and the hotel manager said there is a big mafia in car transport at Istanbul airport.

I hired a guide for a walking tour of the historic center, but he didn’t show up. I paid for a laundry at the hotel to deliver clean and ironed clothes but they only delivered clean ones. They always try to overcharge you for anything. It’s really annoying that you have to keep checking and confirming things all the time. You cannot trust.

People are not friendly and polite like in other places. The food is not that attractive and delicious.

Anyway… What would have been a few days of tour and resting has become a very negative experience.

Tourism is done with transparency, honesty and trust. I left Istanbul sad and very disappointed. I don’t recommend this city and Turkey to anyone. There are certainly better options.

I am very sorry to hear that you had a bad experience in Istanbul, Igor. Whatever you describe is definitely very bad and sounds like you were scammed pretty hard. I am sorry!

Yet, while hearing your pain, I wouldn’t be so radical and say that Istanbul and Turkey as a whole is not good place to visit. The city is huge and the country is gigantic too, there are so many wonderful people there. You just got unlucky for some reason and it ruined the entire impression. So sad such things happen but they can happen almost anywhere :((

Thank you for all your tips and help with my itinerary! I used all your recommendations and our time in Turkey was just great. And I appreciate you responding to all my emails!

So glad to hear this, Laura! I’ll be happy to help you with other Turkey travel planning when you come back to revisit the country!

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Istanbul Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors, Türkiye

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul, the largest and most visited city in Türkiye? If so, then we hope you’ll find everything you want to know prior to visiting Istanbul in this travel tips post.

This guide aims to answer every question you might have when visiting Istanbul for the first time, such as how to get to Istanbul and get around this massive city, where to stay, what to eat, the best time to visit and how many days you should plan to spend there.

If you’d like to see what we got up to in the city, then make sure to watch our Istanbul Part 1 and Istanbul Part 2 videos on our  YouTube channel . For more Türkiye videos, check out our  Türkiye Series .

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something. Clicking these links won’t cost you anything, but it will help us to keep this site up and running! Learn more about our affiliate policy.

Table of Contents

Introducing Istanbul, Türkiye

The city has a rich history, and it would take us way too long to run through it in its entirety. Instead we’ve collected a few interesting facts about Istanbul, so you can get a feel for the city before we dive into some of our top travel tips:

• Istanbul isn’t the capital of Türkiye, despite it being the largest city in the country and acting as the capital of many empires throughout history. The capital city is, in fact, Ankara.
• The city’s name was officially changed from Constantinople to Istanbul in 1930.
• Istanbul is the only city in the world that’s situated across two different continents:  Europe  and Asia.
• The city was built on seven hills to match the seven hills of Rome.
• Istanbul has more than 15 million residents. This is about 19% of the entire country’s population.
• Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is the largest covered market in the world.
• Istanbul Airport (IST) has one of the greatest number of direct flight connections to destinations around the world.
• Due to the city’s close proximity to the North Anatolian Fault Line, it is prone to frequent earthquakes.
• Istanbul has a long history of caring for cats that dates back to the Ottomans, and there are several hundred thousand cats roaming Istanbul today.
• There are over 3,000 mosques in Istanbul, and the city is also home to the largest mosque in Türkiye: Camlica Mosque. 

Is Istanbul Safe to Visit? – Top Istanbul Safety Travel Tips

Istanbul is generally considered a safe city to visit and we never felt unsafe when walking around. However, there are a few things to bear in mind before your visit:

Petty crime and pickpocketing. Istanbul is a huge and very busy city, so make sure to stay vigilant when walking around in busy areas. Unfortunately, pickpocketing isn’t unheard of.

Dress code. Although the majority of the population is Muslim, you can wear what you want on the streets of Istanbul. That being said, if you want to visit mosques, then you’ll need to wear something a little more loose-fitting that covers your arms and legs. If you’re female, then you should also pack a headscarf. On a different note, catcalling can occur on the streets, so you may not want to wear something too revealing.

Natural disasters. Istanbul is prone to earthquakes and tremors thanks to its close proximity to the North Anatolian Fault Line.

Travel warnings . There have been a few terror attacks and political unrest in Istanbul in recent years. It’s always good to check the government’s website and the news for up-to-date information.

Travel Insurance.  We never go anywhere without travel insurance, so make sure to buy one prior to your visit too. There are many different companies out there, offering varying levels of cover depending on your needs. We personally use  SafetyWing , who offer a high level of coverage at a much more affordable price than most other insurers.

Our Top Resources for Travel to Istanbul

• 🗺️ Compare methods of transport and prices with Omio
• 🚌 Public Buses: Busbud and Flixbus
• 🚗 Car Hire: Discover Cars
• ✈️ Flights: Skyscanner

How to Get to Istanbul?

Istanbul has two airports: New Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side, and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side of the city. Both offer direct flights to many countries around the world, although you’ll have more options at Istanbul Airport.

Istanbul airport is well connected to the city centre by public transport. You can take metro line M11 from the airport to the city centre, and may need one or two changes depending on where you’re staying. You can check out the metro map here . Note that you should buy an Istanbulkart before using public transport in the city.

If you’re arriving to Sabiha Gokcen Airport, then you can take the Havabus shuttle to Kadiköy (Asia side) or Taksim (European side). Of course, you can always use a taxi or a pre-booked transfer, especially if you’re arriving at unfriendly hours.

Find Flights to Istanbul ✈️

By Train or By Bus

There are a few trains you can take to get to Istanbul. A popular journey is the Sofia-Istanbul Express, a night train running daily between Sofia in Bulgaria and  Istanbul . You can also travel by train between the Romanian capital Bucharest and Istanbul.

If you’re visiting from other European countries, you can take a bus to Istanbul. There are direct  Flixbus services  from nearby countries such as Romania (Bucharest) and Bulgaria (Sofia). The bus will drop you off at the Bus Station , where you can take a metro, bus or taxi into the centre.

How to Get Around Istanbul?

Istanbul is huge, and if you’d like to save some money on taxi fares, we recommend using public transport. It’s easy to use and pretty efficient. You’ll need to buy an Istanbulkart , which is a one time purchase. Then you can just top up the card and use it to travel on the metro, buses, trams and ferries within the city.

You can use Google Maps to plan your journey to different areas of the city.

• By Metro. Using Istanbul’s metro system will be the fastest way to get around the city. It’s also quite simple to use once you have an Istanbulkart. Click here to check out Istanbul’s metro map .
• By Bus. Another popular way to get around the city is by bus. There are a ton of different bus lines running across Istanbul. It’s a great mode of transport to use if you want to get somewhere that isn’t on the metro lines.
• By Ferry . You’ll most likely use ferries to travel between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. It’s definitely a fun, and also scenic, way to get around Istanbul.
• On Foot . Whenever we can, we enjoy exploring a new place on foot. You can discover so much more whilst walking than by taking taxis everywhere.

Istanbul Travel Tips for Getting Around. We generally recommend getting to your desired neighbourhood by public transport, and then just walking between attractions once you’re there. If you’ve just arrived in the city, it’s always a good idea to  join a free walking tour  where you won’t just see, but also learn, a lot about Istanbul.

Where to Stay in Istanbul?

As we keep saying, the city is huge. Therefore, it has many different areas you could choose to stay. It depends on how long you’re spending in Istanbul, but one of our travel tips is to base yourself on the European side of the city.

Now, if you want to be close to the main historical attractions, or you only have about 2 days in Istanbul, then book something within the Sultanahmet neighbourhood . If you have about 3 days, and want to be based in the more modern part of the city, close to cafes, bars, restaurants and plenty of attractions, then look for a place in the Beyoglu district.

• Accommodations in the Sultanahmet District of Istanbul.
• Accommodations in the Beyoglu District of Istanbul.

However, if you’re staying in the city for longer, or are looking for something a little cheaper, then you could consider staying somewhere in Balat , just outside the Sultanahmet area, Beşiktaş , just outside Beyoglu district, or even in Kadiköy, on the Asian side of Istanbul.

How Many Days Do You Need in Istanbul?

After spending an entire week in the city, we realised that we could easily have stayed there for a month and still had something new to do every day!

Now, of course, we appreciate that not everyone can stay in Istanbul for longer than a few days. To get a good feel for the city we generally recommend spending a minimum of 3 days . That will allow you to visit the historical area on one day, then explore the modern part of the city on another. On your third day, you can take a ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul.

If you can, then we highly recommend adding an extra day to your itinerary. That way you can venture out to the colourful Balat neighbourhood , visit some of the most beautiful mosques in Istanbul and generally take in everything at a more relaxed pace. Many top attractions such as Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar and Dolmabahce Palace are huge, and could easily take up quite a few hours each.

Based on our experience, we recommend narrowing down your list to what you really want to see and acknowledging the fact that you probably won’t be able to fit everything in on a shorter visit.

Read Next: How to Spend 4 Days in Istanbul

Best Time to Visit Istanbul?

Istanbul is a great city break destination all year-round. However, as always there are better and worse times to visit.

The peak season is normally from June to August, especially during the school holidays. Expect bigger crowds, higher temperatures and soaring prices at this time. The winter months are generally a bit gloomier, but you can definitely snag more affordable transport and hotel deals. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are probably the ideal times to visit to balance the crowds, prices and weather conditions.

Another thing you might want to consider before booking is Ramadan. For some, it can be a great opportunity to gain insight into Turkish culture and Islamic traditions. However, note that during Ramadan businesses and eateries will have different opening times, so you need to plan accordingly, as well as being mindful of the local practices.

Best Neighbourhoods to Visit in Istanbul

Istanbul has 39 districts, so it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to visit at first. Below we’ll list the most popular districts and areas that you’ll want to explore as a first timer.

1. European Side of Istanbul (Fatih, Beyoğlu and Beşiktaş)

• Sultanahmet neighbourhood . This is essentially the Historic Centre of Istanbul located within the Fatih district. Most of Istanbul’s top attractions are located here such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Read our dedicated Sultanahmet guide here.
• Eminönü Neighbourhood . This is the area within the Fatih district where you’ll find the Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar and popular mosques such as Süleymaniye Mosque and Rüstem Pasha Mosque.
• Balat and Fener Neighbourhoods . They’re also located within the Fatih district. These areas are some of the most colourful in Istanbul. Read our Balat and Fener guide here.
• Beyoglu District . It is basically the more modern part of Istanbul. You’ll most likely visit some attractions within the Karaköy neighbourhood, such as the Galata Tower, Istiklal Street and Taksim square. Read our Beyoglu district guide here.
• Beşiktaş District . It is where you’ll find Dolmabahce Palace, and the very popular Ortaköy Mosque, along the banks of the Bosphorus Strait.

2. Asian Side of Istanbul (Anatolia)

• Kadiköy Neighbourhood. It is one of the most visited areas on the Asian side of Istanbul. Here you can go on a coastal walk, enjoy some shopping and take a nostalgic tram ride.
• Üsküdar Neighbourhood. It is another popular district to visit on the Anatolian side of Istanbul. You’ll find plenty of stunning landmarks here, such as Beylerbeyi Palace and Camlica Mosque.

Read our one day guide to the Asian side of Istanbul.

What to Eat in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a very diverse food culture, and is a great place to indulge yourself in Turkish cuisine. Below we’ve listed a few foods and drinks you should definitely try during your visit:

• Turkish breakfast
• Döner Kebab
• Turkish tea (çay)
• Turkish coffee
• Pomegranate juice
• Turkish ice cream
• Turkish Delight (Lokum)

Istanbul Travel Tips . Do you want to learn more about Turkish cuisine? Then make sure to  book a street food tour  to have a fantastic gastronomic experience.

Read Next: Vegetarian Turkish Food to Try on Your Trip to Türkiye

Final Thoughts on Istanbul Travel Tips

We hope you enjoyed reading this Istanbul travel tips post, and that you found it helpful in planning your own trip to this stunning city. Once we got to know the different districts and where everything was located, it was fairly easy to navigate around this massive place. Spending an entire week there definitely allowed us to see a bit more of the city, without having to rush around too much.

Have you ever been to Istanbul before? If so, when and how long did you visit for? What was your overall experience in the city? If not, would you add Istanbul to your bucket list? Let us know in the comments below.

Now, let your adventure begin,

Our Top Travel Resources

Accommodation:  For hotels we always use  Booking.com  and  Hostelworld  for hostels. We also book longer stays on Airbnb or  Vrbo.

Flights:  To find the best flight prices we always check  Skyscanner ,  Google Flights  or  WayAway.  Then we also check the airlines’ websites too for comparison.

Car Rentals:  We use  Discover Cars  when we want to rent a car as it compares local, national and international companies.

Activities:  If we book organised tours we always check either  GetYourGuide  or  Viator.

Foreign Currency:  Whenever we can we prefer to pay in local currency and for that we always use our  Wise card.   We can easily withdraw money from the ATM or pay by card at most shops and restaurants.

Travel Insurance: We never go anywhere without travel insurance. You never know what will happen on your trip, so good travel insurance like SafetyWing can protect you in case of injury, illness, theft and cancellations.

eSIM and VPN: To get data abroad we use  Airalo which is an app that allows you to download a prepaid eSIM to your phone in over 190 countries. Make sure to have a VPN to avoid hackers accessing your personal data when using public WIFI. We use  Surfshark  which is the only VPN that offers one account on unlimited devices. 

Remember…It all starts with a Pin…

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Istanbul Travel Tips: 31 Things To Know Before You Go To Istanbul

Last updated on: 7 May 2022

Planning a trip to the beautiful city of Istanbul? Be sure to check out these 31 things that you should know before going to Istanbul!

Planning a trip to a city you have never been to can be overwhelming and time consuming. Wondering if you should use public transport or grab a taxi, what the safety is, where you should stay, what you should do and how to make most of your time, don’t worry, we got you covered. We spent a total of two months in Istanbul, and while we loved every single minute we spent in this city, there sure are a couple of things that we would have liked to know before visiting. So without further ado, here are 31 things we believe you should know before going to Istanbul!

This post contains affiliate links. This means that purchasing a product or service via these links may earn us a small commission (at no extra cost to you of course).

Transportation in Istanbul

Public transport in istanbul.

One of the best ways to get around Istanbul is by using public transport, especially as Istanbul has an incredible (and affordable) public transport system. Ferry, metros, buses and trams will take you all over the city, no matter where you want to go. All transportation methods are clearly marked so it easy to know which metro, bus or ferry you are taking. We highly recommend using Google Maps to plan your trip as it will give you multiple public transport options including how long it will take! The easiest way to use the public transport system is by getting an Istanbul Kart, which brings us to the next point…

Istanbul Kart

The Istanbul Kart is a card that allows you to pay for all public transport during your time in Istanbul. It can be purchased from the yellow Biletmatik machines that you can find at metro and tram stations, or you can check out the Istanbulkart website to find a Biletmatik near you. You can also buy a Istanbul Kart upon your arrival at Istanbul airport, the Biletmatik machines are located at the transport floor (-2). It might be good to know the following when purchasing a Istanbul Kart:

You can change the language of the Biletmatik machine to English

The Istanbul Kart costs 25 Turkish Lira (March 2022)

No credit is on the card, you will have to top it up

The machines accept cash only notes of 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 Turkish Lira

When adding more then 25 Turkish Lira you can have the option to add the rest as credit

So how much should you add? That all depends on how much you are planning to use the public transport system. In April 2022 a ride with the metro was 7.67 Turkish Lira, and the price for a ferry ride was anywhere between 7.67 and 10 Turkish Lira (you can find the latest prices for the rides here ). You can easily top up the card later, but we’ve heard it is rather hard to get your money back so it is better to not add too much.

Taxi’s in Istanbul

Another easy option of getting around the city is by getting a taxi. Taxis are widely available in Istanbul, and due to their bright yellow colours they are easy to spot. You will also find blue and black taxis available in Istanbul, however, these are both more expensive than the yellow taxis. You can get a taxi by either waving one down or by finding a taxi stand. Taxis are quite affordable in Istanbul, you might notice that taxi drivers insist on setting a price before going, just know that you can request for the meter to be turned on instead. Taxi “scams” like this one the “I don’t have change”, and a couple others are pretty common in Istanbul. It might be good to know that Istanbul does have toll roads (most common for bridges and tunnels), which will be added to the amount on the meter. You can find more info on the taxi rates, toll fees and tips for taking taxis here .

Useful Apps for Transport in Istanbul

If you are planning on visiting Istanbul you might want to download the following apps for using the public transport in Istanbul:

Google Maps ( Android / iOs ) - great for planning and seeing which public transport to take

Google Translate - useful for asking directions or talking to Taxi drivers

BiTaksi - an app that will help you with finding taxis in Istanbul

Istanbulkart - after purchasing the card this app supposedly will allow you to check your balance and to top up the balance with a credit card. We personally didn’t use the app as it required a Turkish phone number and a Turkish residency number at the time.

Tips for Sightseeing in Istanbul

A weekend is not enough.

If you are planning on visiting Istanbul just know that a weekend is, and will not ever, be enough. Istanbul is a massive city with sights spread all over. A weekend is a great option for those who would like to have a taste of what Istanbul is like; visit the most famous mosques, have some Turkish foods, wander around the bazaar, just know that it will not be enough to see it all.

Explore the Asian Side

While most of Istanbul’s most famous sights (the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower) are located on the European side of Istanbul, we highly recommend taking a day to explore the Asian (Anatolian) side of Istanbul . Hop on the public ferry to enjoy some scenic views and head over to Moda to go cafe hopping, or head over to Üsküdar to see some of Istanbul’s most unique sights.

Museum pass

If you are a museum lover and are planning on visiting multiple of Istanbul’s museums you might want to check out the Museum Pass. This pass will allow you to visit multiple museums in Istanbul within 5 days, all for a fixed price. We personally are not the biggest museum lovers so we skipped the museum pass, however, it might be worth checking out. You can find all info about the museum pass, including which museums are included and where to buy the museum pass here .

Visiting Mosques

Istanbul is filled with stunning mosques, and even if you are not a lover of religious sights I can definitely say that at least visiting one or two should be on your bucket list. Mosques in Istanbul are free to enter for everyone, no matter if you are Muslim or not. If you are visiting a mosque for the first time here are some tips:

Do not visit a mosque during prayer time

Take off your shoes before entering a mosque

For women: cover your knees, shoulders, and chest as well as your hair. To be as respectful as possible we recommend to wear pants/skirt/dress that covers you full legs and to cover your arms at least till your elbow. Loose fitting clothes are recommended.

For men: long pants are recommended, however, t-shirts seem to be accepted.

Take of your hat before entering a mosque

Do not take photos of people praying

Certain mosques are segregated meaning that women and men enter through different doors (this is not always the case though) and have different areas they can visit/pray

Shopping in Istanbul

If you love shopping you will love Istanbul. Streets lined with shops, bazaars, local markets and shopping malls, no matter what you are searching for Istanbul has it all. Most people will head over to the grand bazaar to go shopping for souvenirs , where you will find carpets, beautiful lamps, bright coloured bowls, cups and plates and much much more. It might be good to know though that you are expected to bargain in the bazaar. If you don’t have any experience with bargaining here are some of our tips:

Don’t look too interested, this will make shop keepers raise their prices

Don’t name a price, even if they ask for your “best price”

When they name a price look surprised, if you are traveling with someone else you can even go as far as saying things like “oh no that is too expensive”. Often you will be able to bring the price down anywhere from 35 - 50%, so if a price is too outrageous you are sometimes better off leaving.

Make an offer of around 30 to 50% of the price they mentioned. They will never accept it straight away but it will leave you room to lower the price or…

Put the item down and slowly walk away, there are many other stores in the bazaar selling the same items and the vendors know this. They will often drop their prices quickly once they notice you have lost your interest.

All the tips above will help you, but we do want to emphasise that when bargaining you should be respectful. While many consider it a game with a winner and a loser, we would recommend finding a happy medium that leaves both you and the shop keeper feel like winners. Don’t start bargaining unless you are truly interested in buying the item, and don’t offer any ridiculous low prices, you will find that shop keepers will be insulted when you do this and often will not even try to bargain with you anymore.

Istanbul Travel Tips: Food & Drinks

Don’t drink the tap water.

No matter what you do, do not drink the tap water, it is not considered safe to drink. When we asked our AirBnB host she immediately messaged back saying to never ever drink the tap water. You will find small shops and supermarkets selling bottled water everywhere. If you are not sure where to go look for “Migros” or “Carrefour” on your Maps app on your phone, these are two of the larger chains that have shops all over the city.

The Local Cuisine

Do try the Turkish cuisine when you visit Istanbul. While you will find burger and pizza restaurants everywhere we highly recommend trying the local cuisine, it is delicious and large in variety so it has something for everyone. Some famous dishes we would recommend trying:

Turkish Coffee and Tea

Lokum or Turkish Delight

Turkish Breakfast

Now there is one things we have left out of the must try foods and that is Turkish breakfast. Turkish breakfast, or kahvalti in Turkish, is an absolute feast. Getting a Turkish breakfast in Istanbul is quite easy as not only many restaurants and cafe serve breakfast, but there are also many restaurants that are dedicated to Turkish breakfast. You will specifically be looking at Serpme Kahvalti, which is the Turkish breakfast that consists of bread and many small dishes filled with delicious toppings such as jams, honey and cheese. Free flowing tea is often included and it is often optional to order other dishes, such as eggs on the side!

Try Street Food

Or if you are feeling a little bit more food adventurous perhaps try some of the local street food! You will find street food everywhere in Istanbul and it is both delicious and affordable. We have written a complete guide to street food in Istanbul, including which to try, but here are a couple of our favourites:

Dondurma or Turkish ice cream

Alcohol in Istanbul

For those wandering, yes, alcohol is widely available in Istanbul. You will find alcohol available in most restaurants, bars, and of course supermarkets. It might be good to know that prices of alcohol, compared to other products in Turkey, are slightly higher.

Download the GetIr App

If you are a food delivery lover then we highly recommend to install the Getir App. Getir is an app that allows you to order foods from tons of restaurants in your neighbourhood and get it delivered straight to your front door. The app is available in English, however, it might be good to know that many restaurants only have their menu’s and customisation options in Turkish, so it might be good to have the Google Translate app handy as well! You will find food options like kebap, burgers, pizza, pasta and so much more. The app does require you add a credit card as cash options are not available. We had trouble adding our Canadian credit cards but luckily our Wise card worked just fine!

Supermarkets in Istanbul

If you need any groceries or toiletries you will find plenty of supermarkets available all over the city. You will find small supermarket shops selling a couple of items of fruit, drinks and a few other necessities as well as larger supermarkets. If you are looking for a supermarket near you try searching the following on your app:

In addition to supermarkets you will also find produce markets that often happen once a week. The day differs per area, for example on the Asian side there is a large market happening every Tuesday, and on the European side you can visit the Market in Besiktas on Saturdays !

What to Wear and Pack for Istanbul

The weather in istanbul.

You will find all four seasons in Istanbul with snow covered roads in the winter to incredibly hot summers. We personally love visiting countries like these during either spring or fall when temperatures are milder, making it a lot more enjoyable to explore. We personally visited Istanbul in March to May and found that not till later in April the weather started to get more enjoyable (in March we still had snow and temperatures were below 0°C at night). The hottest month of the year is August where temperatures average around 28°C (83°F) and the coldest months are January and February where temperatures drop to an average of 6.2°C (43°F).

What to Wear in Istanbul

There is no set rules or guidelines on what you should wear in Turkey. While predominately a Muslim country you will find people walking around in short dresses and shorts as well. However, if you are planning on visiting mosques or any other religious sights it is recommended to wear more conservative clothing that cover your legs and shoulders, and for women visiting mosques your hair as well. Istanbul, as described above, has all four seasons so we recommend checking the weather before leaving on your trip to make sure you pack the right clothing!

One thing you cannot forget to bring to Turkey is a pair of comfortable shoes. While public transport and taxis are widely available you will still find yourself wandering through cobble stoned streets to admire the shops and sights. It might also be good to know that Istanbul is built on hills, and avoiding these hills is absolutely impossible, so be prepared for a little workout walking up and down hills, as well as stairs, during your trip.

Essentials for Istanbul

Besides clothing there are a couple of items that we would recommend packing for your trip to Istanbul:

Earplugs - Turkey has a predominantly Muslim population and as such the call to prayer, also known as ezan, can be heard five times a day in Istanbul. The call to prayer times change throughout the year, however, some of the call to prayers can take place during the night or around dawn. If you are staying close to a mosque and you are not used to the call of prayer you might want to pack a set of foam or silicone earplugs if you are a light sleeper.

Power Adapter - Turkey uses the type C and F plugs, so if you are coming from a country that uses any other type of plug (such as UK, USA or Canada) be sure to put a power adapter in your suitcase so you can charge your electronics during your trip to Istanbul!

(Head)scarf  - As mentioned above, Istanbul is filled with stunning mosques with many of them absolute must sees during your trip to Istanbul. However, each of these mosques have a conservative dress code requiring you to cover shoulders, legs and for women also their hair. A large scarf to cover your hair and possibly even shoulders as such could come in handy when sightseeing in Istanbul.

Internet & Wifi in Istanbul

Wifi in istanbul.

Wifi is widely available in Istanbul, so you won’t have to worry about staying connected during your trip. Most cafes and restaurants have wifi in case you would like to check up on your messages during the day, however, if you prefer to be connected 24/7 and not having to depend on wifi you might rather buy a sim card instead.

Buying a Sim Card

If you are planning a trip that is longer than 4 or 5 days in Turkey then you might like to get a sim card. If you are planning on getting a sim card then be sure that your phone is unlocked before leaving to Turkey. Upon arrival you will have multiple providers to pick from. Two of the most popular providers in Turkey are Turkcell and Vodafone. We personally opted for Turkcell, as according to the internet they are known to have the best coverage, and bought the only option that was available for tourists: the tourist welcome package. The tourist welcome package included (valid for 30 days) 20GB of data, 200 min and unlimited Whatsapp messaging. The welcome package was 350 Turkish Lira ($23.85) in March 2022. Be sure to bring your passport when getting a sim card as they will need this to register your sim card.

If you are planning on traveling to Istanbul, or are planning to travel in general, we would highly recommend using a VPN. A VPN, or a virtual private network, allows you to browse public internet a whole lot safer during your trip as it creates an encrypted connection between you and the internet. As we travel full time we personally always use a VPN. We are currently using Surfshark VPN , which has the option to be installed on a phone or a laptop. Another benefit of having a VPN is that it allows you to “connect” to different countries. Which is great when wanting to watch Netflix as it allows you to enter the Netflix libraries of multiple countries!

Money & Budget for Istanbul

Turkish lira.

The currency used in Turkey is the Turkish Lira. The Turkish Lira has both notes (5,10,20,50,100,200 Turkish Lira) as well as coins (1,5,10,25,50 kr) although the 1 Kurus, pronounced as Kooroosh, does not seem to be used very often.

Using Credit Cards in Istanbul

Using credit cards in Istanbul is widely accepted. The most common credit cards to be accepted are the Visa and Mastercard (we use our prepaid Wise card ), although it might be good to know that our Maestro debit card from the Netherlands also seemed to be accepted at supermarkets, restaurants and cafes. The only place where we found that you could only pay with cash was in most taxis, markets and when topping up our Istanbul Kart. Nonetheless, we always recommend keeping some cash on hand, just to be sure!

Tipping in Istanbul

Tipping in Istanbul is not mandatory, however, it is highly appreciated. In cafes and restaurants it is customary to tip around 5-10% and in more upscale restaurants it is more common to tip around 10-15%. In some cafes and restaurants a service charge (often of around 10%) is automatically added to the bill, even if it is not stated on the menu, if it is then it is not customary to tip. It might be good to know that in Istanbul it is not always possible to add the tip to your bill when you are paying with card, so it might be good to keep some cash on hand.

ATMs in Istanbul

ATMs are widely available in Istanbul, you honestly will find them everywhere. You will also find ATMs upon your arrival at the airport so you can take out cash there as well to pay for a taxi to the city centre. Check with your bank in advance to see what your withdrawals fee will be. Similar to using credit cards in Istanbul you will find that Visa and Mastercard (both debit and credit) are the most widely accepted cards, Amex, however, is not accepted everywhere.

What to Budget for Istanbul

What you will need to budget highly depends on what kind of trip you are planning. Are you planning on staying in hostels, eating street food and only visiting the free sights and using public transport? Then a budget of 25 - 35 USD per day, per person, is sufficient. However, if you prefer to stay in a medium range hotel as a couple you are starting to look at 50+ USD per night, plus costs of eating out, transport and sightseeing you will easily need a budget of 75 - 125 USD per day for the two of you. Istanbul truly can be as expensive, or as affordable, as you want it to be. You will find plenty of free sights and affordable restaurants (away from the main sights and busy streets) all over the city. One thing that can make your trip quickly expensive is when consuming a lot of alcohol, as compared to food and other drinks this is higher priced in Turkey.

General Travel Tips for Istanbul

Safety in istanbul.

Istanbul, in general, is a safe city to visit. However, you should be aware (similar to every city in the world) that there are areas that are considered less safe, especially at night. We found an article online that highlights which areas you should avoid when visiting Istanbul. Besides that you should know that scams in Istanbul are pretty common as well as pickpocketing, so make sure you keep your valuables in a safe place.

Visa for Turkey

Most countries and nationalities need a visa before entering Turkey. Luckily Turkey has an e-visa system that is quick and accepts over 95 countries. You can check here to see if you can get an e-visa, or even to see if you are visa exempt!

Accommodation in Istanbul

If there is one thing you don’t have to worry about it is finding accommodation in Istanbul, there are loads op options available for every single budget. You will find budget hostels as well as luxury hotels. We personally love using booking.com for short term accommodation as not only you can use the map feature to find the best place to stay, you can also read detailed reviews and see all the amenities and different rooms every hotel or hostel has available!

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25 Best Things to Do in Istanbul

From historic squares to the Grand Bazaar, there's much to do in the Turkish metropolis.

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Surely there has never been a dull moment in Istanbul . An imperial capital for 1,700 years, the metropolis has long stood as a gateway between the East and West, and that has made it a hub for crossing cultures, religions, ideologies, and cuisine. And the legacy of the city — formerly Constantinople — has withstood the test of time. "It is a city with an incredible depth of culture, and history like no other," says Liam Dunch, product manager of Abercrombie & Kent, Europe. "Discovery through the stratification and the layers will be constant and unending. Observing the way that people of the city blend together the notions of the East and those of the West is an incredible experience."

Mina Agnos, president of Travelive and a Travel and Leisure A-List Advisor , agrees that the bustling city is a quintessential destination for anyone aiming to understand Turkey. "Every visit to Turkey either starts or ends with Istanbul," she adds. "It is a uniquely diverse city with so many unforgettable sites to discover." Read on to learn what these experts name as the best things to do in Istanbul.

Related : Travel + Leisure Readers' 3 Favorite Hotels in Istanbul of 2023

Experience Taksim Square.

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Taksim Square is in the heart of modern Istanbul, perched at the end of the famous pedestrian street Istiklal Caddesi. Past meets present here; at one end you have the grand Taksim Mosque, and at the other is the modern Ataturk Cultural Center . This is where the hum of Istanbul’s activity vibrates at its highest level.

Stroll down Istiklal Caddesi.

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Speaking of Istiklal Caddesi, this pedestrian-only walking street is the place to soak in the vibe of Istanbul. It is one of the most famous thoroughfares in the country today and is flanked by both Ottoman-era buildings and Art Nouveau and Art Deco structures. The buildings house everything from boutiques and art galleries to cafes, theaters, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Sample Turkish kebab.

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Turkish cuisine includes a dizzying array of grilled meats, seafood, salads, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices, rich desserts, coffee, and tea. When visiting Istanbul, you will want to try as many of the above as possible, but perhaps Turkish kebab especially. Made of marinated lamb or beef, the kebab is cooked on skewers and served alongside vegetables or wrapped up in lavash bread.

Visit the Galata Tower.

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Rising from the historic streets of Istanbul's Beyoglu district, Galata Tower was originally constructed as a watchtower during the Byzantine era. The structure that stands today, however, dates back to the 13th century and serves as a gallery and museum. A primary feature of the tower is a 360-degree observation deck that overlooks Istanbul.

Shop and party in Beyoglu.

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"The European side of Istanbul is home to the main historic district," says Agnos. "This side of the city is considered more 'Western' and it includes nightlife spots and more cosmopolitan districts such as Beyoglu and Karakoy. Beyoglu is famous for its vibrant atmosphere; this area offers wonderful stops for shopping, dining, and nightlife." It's likely you will spend a lot of time in Beyoglu should you travel to Istanbul. Steeped in more than a thousand years of history, the neighborhood is the beating heart of modern Istanbul on the European side of the city.

Grab a drink at Grand Hotel de Londres.

A grande dame of Istanbul, Grand Hotel de Londres is a beautifully preserved building from the 1800s. It's all about opulence here, from the rich color palette and glittering chandeliers to plush wall-to-wall carpeting. The terrace bar is a favorite hangout for tourists and locals; there's often live music here, plus beautiful sunset views over the Golden Horn. "This is a good suggestion for travelers that have been to Istanbul," says Agnos. "It's an off-the-beaten-path suggestion for visitors to really feel the vibe of the city."

Explore Karakoy.

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"Karakoy, the modern name for the old Galata, is part of the Beyoglu district," says Agnos. "It is known as one of the hippest and oldest neighborhoods in Istanbul, home to arty cafes, local boutiques, cocktail bars open late into the night, and art galleries. There is a growing local fashion and art scene in this area."

Marvel at the Blue Mosque.

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One of the most recognizable landmarks in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is a beacon in the city skyline. It is known for its gorgeous domes and six soaring minaret towers. The mosque dates back to the 17th century and is still a functioning mosque today.

Visit Hagia Sophia.

Not far from the Blue Mosque is the equally impressive Hagia Sophia. Originally built as a church where rulers of the empire were crowned, it was later converted to a mosque. Today it serves as a museum dedicated to Turkey, and it remains one of the most important monuments for both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

Roam the Hippodrome.

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Back when Istanbul was the imperial capital of Constantinople, it was known for its horse and chariot racing, and the Hippodrome was where these exciting, adrenaline-pumping races took place. While the original venue is no longer around, what stands in its place is Sultanahmet Square, where several monuments serve as reminders of the area's millennia-old past.

Explore the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum.

The Turkish and Islamic Art Museum is a revolutionary museum for Turkey, being the first in the country to showcase Turkish and Islamic artwork together. Opened in 1914, it was the last museum to open during the Ottoman Empire period. The museum has 1,700 pieces of art, and its carpet collection is among the most impressive in the world.

Journey underground at the Basilica Cistern.

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Istanbul's skyline soars with some of the world's most beautiful and historic monuments, and the beauty continues underneath the pavement, too, thanks to masterpieces of engineering and infrastructure. The primary water reservoir for Constantinople, the Basilica Cistern is cathedral-esque and a sight to see. Built during the 4th century, it is supported by 336 columns and can hold up to 17.5 million gallons of water.

Visit Topkapi Palace.

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This 15th-century palace was once the administrative headquarters for the Ottoman Empire. Now a museum, the venue is full of treasures, from walls festooned with gorgeous paintings to rooms that give way to sumptuous courtyards — you can even explore the opulent former harem. It's one of the best places in Istanbul to learn about the former grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.

Check out the Süleymaniye Mosque.

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Istanbul is not short on impressive mosques, and Süleymaniye Mosque is certainly one of its most beautiful. Considered the masterpiece of architect Mimar Sinan, the mosque was built in the 16th century to honor Sultan Süleyman, the longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman Empire. The central dome stands at a staggering 154 feet tall and the interior is beautifully decorated with colors of gold, green, red, and blue.

Ferry to Istanbul’s Asian side.

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Istanbul stands as an important crossroads between Europe and Asia, and the city itself is divided between the two continents by the Bosphorus Strait. Be sure to immerse yourself in both sides of this rich city in order to best understand its history. There are more than 20 ferry routes across the Bosphorus, and the crossing takes only 15 minutes.

Admire Beylerbeyi Palace.

Across the Bosphorus, Beylerbeyi Palace is a 19th-century estate built as a summer palace for royalty. It was also used as a residence for visiting heads of state. The now-museum is a gorgeous example of interior design and architecture, with nods to both Ottoman and Neo-Baroque styles. The stunning gardens that surround the palace are equally impressive.

Shop around Kadikoy Market.

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Kadikoy Market is part of a buzzy bazaar on Istanbul's Asian side. Overlooking the Sea of Marmara, the market is a historic one, home to more than 4,000 vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to carpets, pottery, textiles, and paintings. It is also one of the best spots in the city to sample Turkish street food and Turkish delights, a jelly candy made with rosewater.

Walk the Kuzguncuk neighborhood.

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Sandwiched between Uskudar and Beylerbeyi, Kuzguncuk is one of the most lively and vibrant neighborhoods in Istanbul's Asian side, and it has always been a melting pot of religions and cultures. You'll see mosques, churches, and synagogues here, plus the neighborhood's funky mishmash of coffee shops, restaurants, tree-lined cobblestone streets, and brightly colored historic homes.

Bargain at the Grand Bazaar.

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Prepare to feast your eyes on the granddaddy of all covered markets. One of the world's oldest and largest venues of its kind, the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul contains a maze of streets and thousands of shops. Vendors sell everything you could possibly think of, so if you're a professional at haggling, this will be like your Super Bowl.

Get a serious scrubbing at Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı.

Wellness has been "on trend" in Turkey for hundreds of years, and visitors can step back into the old ways of wellness with a visit to the iconic Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı. The building dates back to the 16th century and serves as one of the top spots in the city for a classic hamam ritual today. Remember to book accordingly — the hamam is open to women in the morning and men in the afternoon.

Visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pege.

This early Byzantine monastery has a history of miracles and legends tied to it, thanks to a spring that is believed to have magical powers. It's also set on a hilltop, making it a great place to take in city views.

Connect with the local community.

If you like to step into the shoes of a local when you travel, you can do that in Turkey. Agnos recommends visiting the island village of Bozcaada in August to harvest and sell tomatoes with the local community. Or, if you're in Bodrum, join the olive harvest that occurs between September 15 and December 25.

Enjoy the Mediterranean climate.

Istanbul may be a cosmopolitan city, but it is surrounded by nature at every turn, with coastal views, island-style living, forests, and parks. "There are many seaside promenades where locals walk, run, or socialize and hang out," says Dunch. "From early June to the end of September, public beaches on the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara are open." Dunch also recommends enjoying open-air concerts in the summer, or visiting Belgrad Forest, north of the city. "Around Prince's Island," he adds, "sailing and water sports are popular."

Discover your favorite ‘esnaf lokantası’.

Istanbul has some of the top restaurants in Europe, but local, homestyle street food cafes are where the city really shows its heart. "I recommend eating at a craftsmen's eatery," said Dunch. "They are referred to as 'esnaf lokantası,' frequented by shopkeepers and craftsmen in commercially vibrant areas, such as the markets, and they offer underrated and extremely tasty home-style cooking. This is as close as a visitor can get to the heart of Turkish cuisine."

Be entertained at Bomontiada.

The impressive Bomontiada complex is a center for the arts. There's the Ara Güler Museum, restaurants, and a calendar of outdoor concerts and movie screenings, making this the place to go for all forms of entertainment. It also happens to be housed within the once-abandoned Bomonti beer factory, and it was integral to helping redefine this formerly desolate part of the city.

Istanbul   Travel Guide

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19 Best Things to Do in Istanbul, Turkey

The world's only city that sits on the two continents of Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus strait, Istanbul possesses so many layers that make it absolutely unique. A megacity that has seen the rise and fall of two empires, the former

• All Things To Do

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) free

Sultan Ahmed I was determined to build a mosque that rivaled the nearby Hagia Sophia , and most would agree that he accomplished this task or, at least, came close. Since the early 1600s, the Blue Mosque has been quite the sight to behold, with an array of domes, semidomes and minarets (or narrow towers). It's also one of the biggest tourist draws in Istanbul.

Visitors say this mosque offers stunning architecture inside and out. It can, however, get busy, so consider arriving early. And remember, the Blue Mosque is an active religious site, so dress conservatively. Women should wear headscarves, as is custom. If you forgot to bring one, you can borrow one from the mosque.

Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Cami) Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Cami) free

Tourists flock en masse to the Hagia Sophia for its stunning architecture, glorious interior views and historical significance. Built between 532 and 537, the building was a church for nearly a thousand years. It then served as a mosque from 1453 until 1935, before becoming a secular museum. In 2020, the building once again became a working mosque. 

Once the biggest cathedral in the world, the Hagia Sophia is considered the magnum opus of Byzantine architecture. Visitors say it is a must-see when in Istanbul and recommend taking a guided tour for more information about the history of the site. 

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici) Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici)

The Basilica Cistern is Istanbul's largest surviving Byzantine cistern and one of its most unique historic sites. Constructed in 532 for Justinian I, this sprawling underground water reservoir –which is roughly the size of two football fields – once supplied water to the Great Palace of Constantinople, a large palace that served as the main residence for local emperors for centuries. Though the palace no longer exists, the cistern was renovated in 1985 to welcome visitors. In 2022, it reopened to the public after a five-year restoration effort. Its most noteworthy feature is a pair of Medusa heads that sit upside down at the base of two columns.

According to past travelers, the Basilica Cistern is easy to miss but worth checking out, despite its lack of interior attractions. Many said the site is beautifully preserved, but queues to buy tickets and enter can get quite long, so several recommended visiting with a tour group. Multiple half- and full-day tours that include stops at the cistern are offered on Viator ; tour prices range from $39 to $686 per person.

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Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi) Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi) free

Located within walking distance of must-visit sights like the Blue Mosque , the Basilica Cistern  and Süleymaniye Mosque , the Grand Bazaar is one of the biggest and oldest covered shopping markets in the world. It regularly overwhelms visitors with its more than 60 streets of 3,000-plus shops, each accompanied by an overzealous vendor. Products range from hand-loomed carpets to antiques, traditional textiles to copper and silver artisan objects, artisan jewelry and ceramics to clothing and much more.

Despite the size and chaos of this bazaar, shoppers say you'll find yourself strangely at ease with the rhythm of the market, thanks in part to the friendliness of the vendors, who are far from pushy. Remember, though, that Westerners are often quoted higher rates for items here, so come prepared to bargain. Most merchants will drop their rates by as much as 50% when a customer refuses to pay full price. What's more, additional discounts are often given to those who pay with cash, although most vendors do accept credit cards.

Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarsisi) Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarsisi)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take a lunch break at Pandeli Restaurant  inside the bazaar, which has been around since the 1950s serving classic Turkish dishes in a refined ambiance. Make reservations in advance and don't miss the stairs that lead up to the restaurant on the left side of the bazaar's Eminönü entrance. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

Built in the 17th century from the revenue of the Ottoman administrative district in Egypt (and therefore also known as the Egyptian Bazaar) this historic bazaar is the second most famous covered market in Istanbul. A must-visit for gourmets who love to shop for traditional ingredients, the more than 80 shops inside the market have a wide and fragrant spectrum of spices, nuts, dried fruits, Turkish coffee and traditional sweets.

Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) free

Nestled within Istanbul's historic Fatih district by the Golden Horn, Istanbul University and the Grand Bazaar , Süleymaniye Mosque is considered one of the city's most impressive Ottoman mosques. Built between 1550 and 1557 after being commissioned by its namesake, Süleyman I, this grand structure features multiple gardens and a large dome, plus high-end finishes like mother-of-pearl window shutters, painted corbels, traditional ceramic tiles and stained-glass windows.

Recent travelers described their time at this mosque as "amazing" and "peaceful," adding that it is just as stunning as the Blue Mosque and cannot be missed. What's more, this attraction is not as central and popular as others like the Hagia Sophia , meaning you won't have to rub elbows with lots of tourists while visiting. But remember, like other religious sites in the area, Süleymaniye Mosque hosts six prayer services every day, so expect occasional closures and dress conservatively. If you forget to wear long pants or pack a scarf to cover your head, the mosque offers loaner coverings at its entrance.

Rüstem Pasha Mosque (Rüstem Pasa Camii) Rüstem Pasha Mosque (Rüstem Pasa Camii)

One of Sultanahmet's lesser-known mosques is also one of its most beautiful. Designed by the famous Ottoman imperial architect Mimar Sinan (who also designed the Süleymaniye Mosque ) and completed in 1563, the structure was dedicated to the Grand Vizier Rüstem Pasha. The mosque's most important trait are the large quantities of Iznik tiles that decorate its interior in a wide variety of floral and geometric patterns. It's a definite deviation from Mimar Sinan's usual style, which favored the structure rather than its internal decoration.

Previous travelers commented that this more hidden sight is a definite stop for anyone interested in Islamic art and Ottoman architecture. They add the design impresses deeply with its hand-painted tilework as well as its majestic dome. Travelers have also commented that the mosque is a welcome respite from Istanbul's busy streets.

Topkapi Palace Museum (Topkapi Sarayi Müzesi) Topkapi Palace Museum (Topkapi Sarayi Müzesi)

Topkapi Palace served as the home of the Ottoman Sultans from 1478 to 1856 and is one of Istanbul's most popular attractions. It officially became a museum in 1924, shortly after the end of the Ottoman era, and features brilliant architecture, manicured courtyards and extensive weaponry, porcelain, cutlery, art and fabric collections.

Previous visitors loved admiring the palace's architecture and perusing its exhibits, saying you'll need several hours to take in everything there is to see. Popular exhibits include the kitchens, the calligraphy area and the armaments room. Many also recommend strolling through the property's gardens and refueling at the on-site coffee shop, where picturesque views of the Golden Horn await you.

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Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri) Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri)

At the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, which opened near the Topkapi Palace Museum  in 1869, you'll find more than a million antiquities displayed throughout three buildings: the Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Orient Museum and the Tiled Kiosk Museum. Exhibitions offer a wealth of artifacts from the Assyrian, Hittite, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations.

Travelers have commented on the beauty of the museum structures themselves and appreciated the vast collection at this underrated museum. Others recommended seeing the Sarcophagus of Alexander, a highlight in the collection.

The Beyoglu Neighborhood The Beyoglu Neighborhood

The heart of Istanbul's local life, Beyoglu, once known as Pera, was the center of European aristocratic settlement during the Ottoman era. The neoclassical architecture of its structures all speak of this past. Starting with the new Ataturk Cultural Center  in the famous Taksim Square, the equally famous Istiklal Avenue stretches all the way to Tünel Square, where the historic Tünel funicular station is located as one of the world's oldest subterranean urban railways.

When walking down Istiklal, make sure to stop and explore the many historic shopping arcades, restaurants, art galleries and churches hidden in the side streets. Standouts include the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, the city's largest Catholic Church; the Istanbul Cinema Museum , exhibiting the history of Turkish cinema inside a stunning former mansion from the 19th century; and the art gallery Casa Botter inside a renovated and repurposed art nouveau apartment building from the 1900s.

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

Certainly one of Istanbul's most iconic structures, the Galata Tower was first built during the Byzantine era, rebuilt by the Genoese, who gave it the stone mesh exterior it still possesses today, and later used as a prison during the Ottoman period. Today, the tower welcomes visitors who can climb to the top to enjoy a gorgeous 360-degree view of Istanbul.

Travelers have remarked that the tower is located in the city's "coolest" neighborhood and noted that the view from the top is especially amazing at night. Others commented that the tower itself is beautiful, though they felt the steep entry fee wasn't worth the experience.

Dolmabahce Palace Dolmabahce Palace

Sitting along the Bosphorus near the Kabatas tram stop and the Besiktas  ferry port, Dolmabahçe Palace's jaw-dropping beauty and historical importance impresses visitors. Built in the 19th century, the palace was used by the final Ottoman sultans as their primary residence and administrative seat. The interior and exterior architecture showcase a mix of European and Ottoman designs that can only be found at this global crossroad. Make sure to also visit the National Painting Museum next door (included in the ticket), which showcases around 200 paintings from the palace's collection that spans Turkish and international artists from the 19th century.

Past travelers were wowed by the palace's extravagant interior, although some wished photography was permitted and felt tours were rushed and lacked information. Several visitors also reported long ticket lines, and the property's website  cautions that the ticket office closes early once all passes have been distributed for the day, so plan on arriving early.

The Besiktas Neighborhood The Besiktas Neighborhood

After exploring the Dolmabahçe Palace , a stroll in the Besiktas neighborhood at large is a great way to delve into local life, away from the tourist highlights. Walk up Süleyman Seba Avenue to reach Akaretler, the 19th-century row houses originally built for those who worked at Dolmabahçe Palace. They're now filled with modern shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Stroll down Çiragan Avenue to reach Yildiz Park, one of the city's largest public parks with two Ottoman-era pavilions that now serve as cafes and enjoy some time away from the crowds. Right across the park, gaze at one of Istanbul's most iconic hotels with its ornate gates, the Çiragan Palace Kempinski, inside a former Ottoman palace. If you still have the energy, continue on Çiragan Avenue to Ortaköy Square to enjoy a waterfront view of the famous Bosphorus Bridge with the Ortaköy Mosque built in the 1850s right before it.

The best way to reach Besiktas is via bus, however, the neighborhood also has its own ferry port with transfers available from Eminönü (Old City).

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The Nisantasi Neighborhood The Nisantasi Neighborhood

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make sure to visit Kalyon Kültür , an art and culture space inside a beautifully renovated Ottoman mansion built in 1889. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

It's in this neighborhood that you'll find the city's residents shopping for the latest collections from Turkish and international designers. Apart from Beymen , Turkey's most exclusive department store, you'll also find brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Chanel plus the atelier and showrooms of some of Istanbul's most important fashion designers. The neighborhood is, however, also home to brands such as Gap, Massimo Dutti, Zara and Marks & Spencer, pleasing shopping crowds of all budgets in one go.

Galataport Galataport

Much more than the world's first underground cruise ship terminal, Galataport is filled with restaurants, cafes, shops and a wide boardwalk that all face the Bosphorus. Apart from Istanbul Modern , Galataport's other cultural offering is the Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture , designed by the famed Turkish architect Emre Arolat's firm. It has a vast collection that presents Turkish art from the late 19th-century Ottoman period to the end of the 20th century. The port is also home to the luxurious Peninsula Hotel; three of its four buildings are renovated heritage structures overlooking the Old City.

Travelers have remarked that the port is modern and has lots of branded storefronts and restaurants and that the views are incredible. They add that the modern design of Galataport and the historic architecture of nearby structures gives visitors the best of both worlds.

Istanbul Modern Istanbul Modern

Inside a stunning waterfront structure by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop, Istanbul Modern is the city's most important hub for contemporary art with its permanent and temporary exhibitions. The collection focuses mainly on pioneering Turkish artists and also includes a photography collection. Make sure to visit the museum's rooftop that faces the Bosphorus and the Old City and features shallow pools that reflect the horizon.

Previous visitors have commended the large variety of artworks, including all types of art, media, sculpture and interactive exhibits. Other guests recommended the rooftop and its fantastic view of the historic city center.

The Kadiköy Neighborhood The Kadiköy Neighborhood

U.S. News Insider Tip: Heading to Kadiköy Market? Start your journey on Günesli Bahçe Street and then get lost among the offerings, especially the many little eateries selling street food. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

Istanbul's Asian side (or Anatolian side as the locals like to say) is often completely overlooked by tourists, but it's the perfect locale for those who want to have a genuine local experience. Kadiköy is very down-to-earth and still very Turkish, largely untouched by the cosmopolitan air that is prevalent on the European side. After arriving at the Kadiköy ferry station, the first stop should be the vast Kadiköy Market, a network of interconnected streets that are filled with vendors selling everything from fresh fish to produce, cheeses to pickled vegetables, coffee to nuts, offal to honey and so much more.

Beylerybeyi Palace Beylerybeyi Palace

Another hidden gem Istanbul's Anatolian (Asian) side, the breathtakingly ornate Beylerbeyi Palace was built between 1863 and 1865 under the order of Ottoman Sultan Abdülaziz. It served as a summer residence and state guesthouse. The waterfront palace was designed by Sarkis Balyan, who, along with other members of the Armenian Balyan family, designed such other icons as the Dolmabahçe  and Çiragan Palaces. A confluence of Western and Eastern architectural styles, the interior of the lavish palace is filled with Turkish Hereke carpets; French Baccarat crystal chandeliers; and Chinese, Japanese, French and German ceramics, to name a few.

Previous travelers were astounded by the beauty and design of the palace, which exhibited wonderful craftsmanship. The palace's coffee shop was also recommended due to the stunning Bosphorus view.

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Büyükada Büyükada

U.S. News Insider Tip: This island is very popular on the weekends, so if you'd rather avoid the crowds, visit on a weekday. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

The largest of Istanbul's Princes' Islands is certainly its most popular and is the best way to really take a break from the city's endearingly chaotic energy. Büyükada (which literally translates to 'large island') was a popular getaway for Istanbul's prosperous Greeks, Jews and Armenians who had lavish summer mansions built to accommodate their vacationing needs. Nowadays, these Ottoman-era mansions are some of the most important attractions on the island, and locals and visitors alike arrive in droves to stroll along the streets to gaze up at the historic architecture. Some of the most notable houses are located on Çankaya Avenue.

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Awe-inspiring Istanbul Itineraries and Travel Tips

By: Author Corinne Vail

Posted on Published: 28 February 20  - Last updated: 1 January 24

Home » DIY Travel » Turkey » Awe-inspiring Istanbul Itineraries and Travel Tips

Have you ever wanted to visit enchanting Istanbul, the city that spans two continents? Istanbul is the most exotic city on Earth, and you will want to see and experience its best. Check out our 1-3 day itineraries.

I love Istanbul. Even though I’ve been going to Istanbul for as long as I can remember, it still strikes me as one of the most exotic, magical cities in the entire world.

It’s a city I truly love! So many people only go to Istanbul when traveling to Turkey , and there is so much more to see and do in this amazing country, but it’s a good start and it certainly has some amazing sights to see. I hope you enjoy our Istanbul Travel Guide and enjoy our itineraries.

Historical Places To Visit in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia

Undisputedly the most important of all the sights in Istanbul, the Hagia Sofia has been around for over 1500 years. It is truly a symbol of the city.

Built originally by Byzantine emperor Constantius or Constantine the Great (which the city was named after as well) as a Greek Orthodox Christian church, it had a wooden roof and burned to the ground.

Rebuilt in 537, it still stands today. It was such an important religious place that the emperors were crowned there. After the Ottomans took power over the city, it was renovated into a mosque by adding a mihrab and minarets. ( source ).

Today, millions of tourists visit it each year, some more interested than others. The last time we were inside of the building admiring the calligraphy, the marble, the mosaics, and the architecture, we saw a couple of kids with game devices sitting on a pillar and playing away. At least they weren’t being disruptive.

Hagia Sophia Tips and Info

Don’t miss:.

• The magnificent dome
• Byzantine mosaics
• Islamic calligraphy
• The minarets and mihrab
• Sultan’s tombs
• The upper galleries as well as the bottom floor
• The garden also has many artifacts

Practical Info for Aya Sofia

Opening Hours: During the summer Hagia Sophia is open from 9:00 – 7:00, but in winter it’s only open until 6:00.

It is open everyday except Mondays, and it will be closed for a few Turkish holidays. If you are there during Ramadan or other holidays, check before going.

Cost: Currently the cost is 72 Tl.

Note: I haven’t been back to Istanbul since Hagia Sofia was turned back into a mosque, so some of this info may be incorrect.

Best time to go: Hagia Sophia will always have plenty of tourists, but avoid going at high traffic times like mid-morning or mid-afternoon. Either go early when it first opens or go late, an hour or so before closing.

Photo Tip: Getting a good photograph inside can be difficult and tripods are not allowed. Try supporting your body by leaning on a pillar or putting your camera on a banister.

• Blue Mosque

Having lived in Turkey as a middle schooler, I believe that the Blue Mosque was the first one I’d ever visited in my life. Unlike the Christian churches I was used to, I was captivated by the wide-open expanse of floor covered with beautiful Turkish prayer rugs. After having visited this iconic place of worship many, many times, I’m still delighted by its grandeur.

Construction of the Blue Mosque (known as Sultanahmet Camii in Turkish) took place in the early seventeenth century. At the time, it was thought presumptuous to build a mosque with six minarets as this was the same number at the mosque in Mecca. To avoid criticism, the sultan ordered a seventh minaret to be built at the Mecca mosque.

The blue mosque gets its name from the interior decorations. More than 20,000 individual tiles, all hand painted by master craftsman and artisans in Iznik, line the interior. Look closely at the tiles to discover flowers, cypress, and fruits.

Blue Mosque Tips and Info

Don’t miss:.

• The blue Iznik tiles
• The gigantic chandelier
• The mihrab and kiosk
• The six minarets
• Look for tulips, a symbol of Turkey
• The domes and their stained glass windows

How to visit a mosque:

The Blue Mosque or Sultanahmet Camii, is still a working mosque. I’ve never been there when someone was not praying, so it’s important to note that talking in hushed tones and wearing appropriate clothing is much appreciated, if not required.

• Everyone should take off your shoes and put them on a shelf.
• Men should wear long pants and socks.
• Women should wear conservative clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, as well as wear a headscarf. You can borrow one at the door, however you are allowed in all mosques in Turkey and you will use it again, so buy one. We like this wrinkle free one. Scarves should cover all of your hair.

Opening Hours

The only time the mosque closes is for 30 minutes during each prayer time, which you will know because of the call to prayer over the loudspeaker.

• A wide angle lens will help you get the full view of the interior
• Tripods are not allowed, so try to stabilize your camera by holding your camera and arms tight to your body
• Avoid taking photos of worshippers

The area in front of the blue mosque is the site of the ancient hippodrome where chariots raced. Today it’s known as Sultan Ahmet square. It’s a big rectangular green space, with two Egyptian obelisks. The best known obelisk is the Thutmose II Obelisk taken from the Temple of Karnak. ( source )

You will often see families walking there in the evening, throwing ball, or just chatting. We love going during this time and having a glass of çay while we people watch.

• Basilica Cistern

It doesn’t take much time to wander around this Istanbul favorite. Kids and adults alike love going underneath the city to marvel at the 336 columns submerged in water in the otherworldly Basilica Cistern . The main attraction are the two stone medusa heads, and that’s just what they are, two stone heads. It’s worth a quick trip down there!

Cistern Tips and Info

• Because of the dampness, wear comfortable and stable walking shoes, preferably with a no slip bottom.
• You will be going up and down stairs, so it’s difficult for people with knee problems.
• Taking photos is very difficult, because it’s so dark.
• Opening hours : 9:00 – 5:30 daily.
• Cost : 20 Tl.

Top Kapi Palace

One of my absolute favorites places in Istanbul is Topkapi Palace . There’s so much more to it than just a palace with a harem, which is, by the way, very cool. There are other exhibits that include the European Porcelains, the Imperial Treasury, and the Arms and Weapons.

The palace is beautiful, but many of the artifacts have been moved, so you end up walking through a number of empty rooms. The harem, however, still holds a couch. You can see the beautiful Iznik tiles in the rooms and halls as well.

The jewels and historical artifacts are priceless, and some of the items that you can view will amaze you, like these: Moses’ staff, scrolls belonging to John the baptist, keys to the Kaaba, and Muhammed’s footprint and his sword. ( source ) Pretty amazing!

Topkapi Tips and Info

• The view of the Golden Horn
• The Topkapi Dagger (with three emeralds)
• Moses’ Staff
• One of the best weapons collections
• Palace Kitchens

Practical Info:

Opening Hours: Summer 9:00 – 6:45 and Winter 9:00 – 4:45, with the ticket booth closing each day 45 minutes earlier.

Topkapi is closed on Tuesdays.

Costs : Just to enter the palace grounds you will pay 73 TL, but there is an additional cost of 42 TL to see the Harem, which is pretty much a must-see.

Topkapi Tips

• Plan on spending a good amount of time here. You won’t want to miss anything.
• Going on a rainy or cold day would be best, because you’ll be inside most of the time.
• There is a café on site, so you can get a drink and have a snack.

Dolmabahce Palace and Mosque

Dolmabahce palace, built in the nineteenth, is one of the most beautiful palaces in Turkey, maybe even the world. The palace served as the homes of the last Ottoman Sultans, and it was Attaturk’s home away from home when he was in Istanbul leading the new republic.

Highlights of a palace visit include the clock tower in front of the palace, the sultans Harem, Atatürk’s bedroom, and the palace gardens. Plan an early visit, shortly after opening hours, and find a quiet table in the garden cafe and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with a view of the Bosphorus.

Dolmabahce Tips and Info

• The palace has over 280 rooms, nearly 70 toilets, Turkish baths, a Harem, and ball rooms.
• The giant chandelier in the entry hall was a gift from Queen Victoria and is the largest in the world.
• The clock in Attaturks bedroom is stopped on the time of his death in memory of the great leader.
• Dolmabahce means filled garden, a name taken from the fact that the palace land was reclaimed by filling in a harbor.

Opening Hours : 09:00-16:00 every day except Mondays. The Istanbul museum card is doesn’t cover the palace. Tickets must be purchased at the kiosk on the palace grounds.

Cost: Palace and harem tickets are sold separately at 60 TL for the palace and 40 TL for the harem. However, a combination ticket is available for both at 90 TL.

Rustem Paşa Mosque

Tucked away in the passages and narrow lanes near the Spice Bazaar, Rustem Pasa Camii has a completely different feel than the larger mosques in Istanbul. This smaller mosque was built in 1563 and named in honor of the Grand Vizier. The interior is richly decorated with intricately painted Iznik tiles.

This mosque is really holds a nostalgic place in my heart. I can remember the first time I went. It was with my “host nation” teacher in middle school. Mr. Aksoy teased us that this was a super secret mosque that no one really knew about. We were so excited to go.

As we off-loaded our ferry from Yalova, he set a fast pace behind the Yeni Camii down the street to the spice bazaar, then quickly through the bazaar, exiting onto a street with many vendors, the most obvious because of its intoxicating smell, coffee.

We kept following him. No one had stopped to look at the evil eyes, the produce, or any of the souvenirs we passed. We were on a mission. When we arrived at Rustem Pasa, we took off our shoes, all the girls donned scarves and we quietly entered.

It was almost completely empty, a litte dark inside, yet the blue Iznik tiles shone and almost twinkled from the amber lightbulbs hanging over the prayer rugs. Mr. Aksoy waited while his 30 or so 8th graders took it all in, and finally spoke.

I don’t really remember what he told us that day, I just remember that he knew how to pique my interest, and I forever fell in love with this hidden mosque.

I took my family there, and tried to remember the path Mr. Aksoy had taken us. Yeni Camii, check. Spice bazaar, check. Coffee vendor or heavenly smells, check. A little further on, I couldn’t find it. I had to ask someone. We were very close, and it didn’t take but a couple more minutes to reach it. I was so happy that the interior was just what I remembered.

Galata Tower

Another one of the iconic buildings of Istanbul, the Galata tower has its beginnings in the 5th century Byzantine empire. The tower has been used as a defensive bastion, a prison, a fire watch tower, and now as a museum and restaurant. The views of the Golden Horn from the top of this historic tower are priceless.

This is one of our favorite breakfast spots in Istanbul. The tower café puts on a full spread of Turkish specialties including eggs, assorted cheeses, olives, tomatoes, and pastries.

Opening Hours: Daily from 09:00 – 20:30. Reservations are possible for as late as 22:00.

Rumeli Fortress

Rumelihisari is one of our absolute favorite places to go and get out of the city. Located about 10 km from the center, it is an easy bus ride or drive. This is a spectacular place to climb around the old towers and castles, enjoy a gorgeous day in the garden, or partake of a special breakfast.

This Bosphorus fortress was built at the time of the Ottoman assault on the Byzantine empire. In fact, some say this fort was the key to the final siege of city. Today it is a great day trip out of the city.

Info on Rumelihisari

• The cannons in the garden that helped collect the passing toll for so many years
• breakfast next door, until 3:00 pm.

Opening Hours: Daily from 09:00 – 19:00 closed on Wednesdays.

Getting There: Bus 22, 22RE, or 25E from Kabatas station.

Tickets : 18 TL.

• Chora Church

Chora Church would be worth visiting just to see a stunning example of a late Byzantine church. But there is much more here, so much more. The stunning mosaics and murals have been painstakingly restored.

The intimate size and setting of the Chora Church means visitors have the best viewing of these precious treasures from a lost era. This is truly one of the “don’t miss” sites in Istanbul. Entry is covered by the Istanbul Museum Pass or tickets purchased on site.

Info for Chora Church

Opening Hours: Daily from 09:00 – 19:00 summer, 09:00 – 17:00 winter.

Getting There: Bus 32 or 36KE from Eminonu to stop Sehit Yunus Emre Ezer bus stop.

Cost: 54 Tl for adults at the door.

Things to Do in Istanbul

• Taksim Square

Taksim Square is at the heart of modern day Istanbul on the European side of the city. Trendy dining, high-end shopping, and luxury hotels are the name of the game here. Bars, nightlife, rooftop eateries it’s all here.

Still, one of my favorite things to do in Istanbul is to head over to Taksim square, take in the energy of the place, and then hop on the historic old tram for a ride down Istiklal Blvd. to Tunel.

Istiklal Avenue

Istanbuls main pedestrian shopping street is lined with stately 19th century buildings housing global brand shopping side by side with local fashion designer studios. Some of the best nightlife and dining is found here or on one of the bustling side streets.

• Galata Bridge

Cafés on the lower deck and fishermen everywhere, this bustling bridge provides a rare glimpse of the city. While it’s true that buses and trams, cars and taxis, even donkey carts, all make their way across this famous bridge, the best way to cross is on foot. Take in the city skyline views and marvel at the crazy water traffic below.

Take a Ferry

The best way to experience the city is to get out on the water. Boating and shipping has been a way of life in Istanbul for thousands of years. The ferry ride from Hadarpasa station on the Asian side provides the most incredible views of the Golden Horn, especially as the sun is setting.

Another amazing ferry ride is Eminonu to Besiktas. The ferry goes along the Bosphorus passing Dolmabahce Palace on the way. Being on the water and seeing the city from that vantage should not be missed. Yes, there are cruises and boat tours you could take, but take the ferry, it’s cheaper and much more fun!

Experience Hammam

Splashing hot water, heated marble benches, massage, steam-why wouldn’t you want to experience Turkish hammam ? Maybe the most amazing experience of my life. Go in for the full treatment and come out relaxed, rejuvenated, and squeaky clean.

The kese treatment, is the main treatment. You get a woman to scrub you down after you’ve steamed and steamed. This is a must.

Other treatments you might like are the coffee, the chocolate, a massage, and facials. It’s a great way to relax, and when I go to Turkey I like to have one the very day I get there to beat jet-lag. Plus, it’s such a Turkish activity that you will be immersed in the culture right away. Warning: You will sleep well after the bath, so make it as late as you can.

One of the best known is Cemberlistas, not far from the Grand Bazaar. I’ve known many people who tried it and had a fantastic experience.

If you’d like to try it on your own, to the Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam in Beyoglu for a fabulous experience. The bath here is located in a traditional 16th century domed building. Sip some tea after your bath in the relaxing rest area. Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Hamam Sk. No:1, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

Watch The Whirling Dervishes

Another must see while in Turkey, is a whirling Dervish show. These spiritual dancers will take your breath away with their grace and serenity. And what better venue than an ancient, remodeled Turkish Hammam?

UNESCO has deemed the Mevlani order dancers as a declared Heritage of Humanity. Watching the spirals and arcs of the dancers in their trancelike state is magical. Try to get a seat near the front for the best experience.

Markets and Shopping in Istanbul

If you’ve ever watched any movies that take place in northern Africa, the middle East, and of course Turkey, you probably have a vision of narrow alleyways, packed in tight with awnings and all kinds of products from fresh produce and meat, to all kinds of Turkish souvenirs .

The Turkish markets are very much like that in some places, but bazaars are such a part of daily life that they have been given lots, with permanent stalls, especially in the larger cities like Istanbul or Ankara. You can still find the tents and awnings in the countryside where the vendors go to a different town each day of the week.

Turkish markets are crowded, chaotic, full of the freshest produce and meats. You can buy breads, yufka (for borek) , kitchen utensils, clothing, really almost anything. Don’t leave Turkey without experiencing as many as you can.

• Grand Bazaar

I really didn’t have to tell you to seek out the Grand Bazaar, did I? I think it’s high on everyone’s list, and of course it should be.

Kapalıçarşı, the Turkish name for the Grand Bazaar was built in 1460 by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in the height of the Ottoman Empire. This labyrinthian structure with 60 long hallways, or shopping streets, lined with over 3600 shops and businesses, many which have been there for generations. . and small domes across the ceiling, holds over

The building itself spans a massive 30,700 square meters, and believe me, you can get lost inside. The best way to experience the bazaar is a little at the beginning of your visit, and then a return visit before you leave so that you can grab your last souvenirs and take in this quintessential Turkish event. ( source )

When you first enter the bazaar, you may think it’s not exactly what you expected. Where are the mountains of spices and the strings of dried dates? Um, that’s not this bazaar, it’s the Egyptian Market or Spice Bazaar, and it’s not even very close to this bazaar.

Power Tip: Don’t forget to look up. Like a hamam, the bazaar’s ceiling has many small domes with cutouts of star in them to let in light.

Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar is really called the Egyptian Market or the Mısır Çarşısı . Even before you open the door to walk inside, you can look right and see that yes, this is the bazaar of your expectations. Right away you will see mountains of nuts and spices, olives and figs, and yes, those colorful, aromatic spices.

Even though there had been a market, or souk, where the bazaar now stands for much longer due to its proximity to the Bosphorus, the building that you walk into today was built along with the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) which sits next door in 1663.

And just like the New Mosque it was originally called the New Market. However, many of the spices that were sold here originated in Egypt, so colloquially it was called the Egyptian Market.

Spice Bazaar Info

• The outside of the market, especially on the Yeni Camii side where you can buy live leeches for your health
• Going out the back of the market are lots of coffee vendors, selling the freshly ground, aromatic Turkish coffee and coffee pots and sets
• Sitting down at a tea stand and sipping on a glass of regular or apple tea and watch the shoppers

Address : Mısır Çarşısı No: 92Eminönü – Fatih

Opening hours : 8:00 – 7:30 pm. almost everyday of the year.

Turkish Rugs and Kilims

One souvenir many people want to walk away with is a Turkish rug or kilim. We know, we’ve bought many!

We’ve written an entire post about what to expect and how to bargain for your perfect Turkish carpet or kilim , but the most important thing to remember is buying a rug is an event.

You cannot walk in and buy one in 10 or 15 minutes. You will want to plan on staying there for at least a couple of hours.

Power Tip : As you walk around Istanbul, in and out of the bazaars look at the rugs but ignore any invitations to look by the shopkeepers. Then when you have a good idea of what you’d like, and maybe where you saw that perfect one, go back, and then accept his invitation.

Other Turkish Products

If you are a shopper, Turkey is the best place for you. From copper to ceramics, tea sets, coffee sets, food products, gold, jewelry, you name it. There is something very cool to buy in the markets of Istanbul.

Istanbul Itineraries

You could spend a year in this amazing city and still not see it all, but we’ll do our best to give you ideas on what to do for the amount of time you’ll be there.

As much as we love Istanbul, we encourage you to go to other parts of the country as well. Turkey is an amazing country, and you will love exploring it.

We’re hoping that you are not including arriving in Istanbul as your first day. Our recommendation is that you arrive in the afternoon, get checked into your hotel, go out for a bit to eat, and as I said above, go to hamam and beat down some of that jet lag before going to bed.

Map of One Day in Istanbul Itinerary

One Day in Istanbul

We do not recommend trying to see Istanbul in one short day. It requires much more than that, but if it’s all you have, then do these important places.

• Breakfast at hotel
• Hagia Sofia
• the Hippodrome (stop for a cay)

House of Medusa Restaurant ( make reservations ). It’s very near Basilica Cistern which depending on fast you are going you can see before or after lunch.

Note : If you truly only have one day in Istanbul, add the Egyptian Bazaar to this list as well. We don’t recommend both bazaars back to back unless you are a serious power shopper, but they both should be visited. We’d like to put in on Day 2, but if you have to go it’s only around the corner from the Hamdi Restaurant, so it can be done.

Hamdi Restaurant , if possible be there for sunset. It’s got a gorgeous view of the Bosphorus on the Terrace level. We highly suggest you try mezzes here. They have such a selection, and they’re all delicious.

Make a reservation before you go by calling +90 2125280390. They will speak English, but your hotelier will be happy to call for you. Make sure to ask for a table with the view.

After Dinner

Enjoy the Whirling Dervish show in Sirkeci. (details above)

Map of 2 Days in Istanbul Itinerary

2 Days in Istanbul

A weekend or two days in Istanbul is much better than one, but you still won’t be able to see it all.

Day 1 – See above. Don’t do the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)

Breakfast at hotel.

• Topkapi Palace
• Gulhane Park

All morning will be taken up with visiting Topkapi Palace . Take your time and do it right. There’s a lot to see, and you’ll love it.

If you aren’t starving yet, walk around Gulhane Park, near the South gate of Topkapi. It’s the oldest park in Istanbul, and it has gorgeous tulips in April and other flowers and greenery during the rest of the ear.

One of our favorite restaurants in all of Istanbul is the Pandeli , and it’s located in the Egyptian Bazaar on the 2nd level. It’s open from 11:00 – 6:30 everyday, so even if you get there mid-afternoon, have a good dinner here. We can recommend for starters the stuffed grape leaves and borek. Then Sultan’s Lamb or Topkapi Chicken. Don’t forget dessert. We love the crumpets with clotted cream. As you can see this is a pretty big meal, but will serve you well with the rest of the day’s plan.

• Egyptian Bazaar
• Rustem Paşa
• Haci Bekir’s – Oldest Turkish Delight Shop in Istanbul – have a glass of cay there. Walk behind the Yeni Camii two blocks. Everyone can point you in the right direction.

Why not take a sunset Bosphorus Cruise. The best one is 2 hours long, serves you a few snacks, and gives you the opportunity to get some great photos.

Nighttime Drinks and Mezze

If you still have some energy left, and you want a typical Turkish evening. Head over to Nevizade street. It’s on a hill, and on both sides of the walking street, there are small café bars called meyhane. Here you can have a beer or a raki (national drink) and have a few mezzes (small plates) too. It’s lively and fun!

Map of Istanbul 3 Day Itinerary

3 Days in Istanbul

With three days, I would do Day 1 first, and do Day 2 last, leaving this day in the middle. This will allow you to get a breather from being in the crazy crowded parts of the city for a little while.

Middle Day Itinerary

• Rumelihisari
• Çay and Chicken Dessert snack at the
• Istiklal Street

Morning and Brunch

Take a breather and do our Rumelihisari jaunt, climb around the castle and then have a leisurely brunch at the Kale Café.

Then take the bus 22 from Aşiyan to Kabataş. Enter the funicular building and buy a ticket to the top. It drops you right near Taksim. And who doesn’t want to take a funicular.

This is a wander walk, where you can shop, and at some point in the afternoon stop in the Saray Muhallebicisi café to try one of the weirdest sounding, but surprisingly delicious desserts…with chicken in it. It’s called Tavuk göğsü, but it’s more like a very thick milk pudding with cinnamon. You will notice the bits of chicken, but it won’t distract from the taste. Try it.

For one last museum, don’t miss the Chora Church with its stunning mosaics.

• Shish Kebab

Tonight we’re going to take you to one of the truest Turkish foods, mangal. Mangal means grill, and the meat is grilled right there in the restaurant. Solmaz Mangal is casual dining with the tastiest foods. Try the chicken wings or a şiş (shish) with kuzu (lamb) or again tavuk (chicken). One of our favorites is the beyti kebab.

Address : Dervişali, Salma Tomruk Cd., 34220 Edirnekapi

Where to Stay in Istanbul

As you can imagine, Istanbul is a huge city and each neighborhood has its own personality and pros and cons. Most tourists stay in the Sultan Ahmet area, mainly because it’s central to most of the sights and has tons of Istanbul Airbnbs . We’ve stayed in Sultan Ahmet more times than I can count.

Day Trips From Istanbul

Depending on what you love to do, you can add any of these day trips to any of your Istanbul itineraries, but they also work well to get you out of the city if you are there on business.

Buyukada (Princes Islands)

One of my favorite things to do as a kid, my school went to Buyukada about once a year. Buyukada, or Big Island, is the largest of the nine Princes Islands in the middle of the Marmara Sea.

We’d ferry across, take a horse cart ride through the beautiful summer houses, ride the donkeys to the top of the mountain, run down, and have a seafood lunch in the harbor. I took my kids and we did the exact same thing. They loved it!

Yalova and Iznik

I lived in Yalova for a year. It’s a ferry ride across the Bosphorus, and the town itself is just truly Turkish. Walk the coastline, sit in a cafe and enjoy some tea. It’s a perfect way to truly take in the other side of Turkey on a day trip.

However, I suggest hiring a taxi to drive you to Iznik where those beautiful tiles have been made for centuries. Walk the dusty streets popping into all the small workshops and artisans shops. (Make sure the taxi waits for you.)

Once the capital of the Ottoman Empire, the Green city of Bursa has plenty to offer like the tombs of the sultans, the silk market, traditional puppets and more.

Don’t miss out on a thing in the most exotic city in the world! Istanbul is like no other place, not even in Turkey. Wander the bazaars, smoke a hookah, and revel in its long and amazing history as you follow our itineraries. You will find yourself in love and planning your return trip. However, don’t stop there. There are so many amazing places to visit in Turkey, you just can’t go wrong.

Author Bio: Corinne Vail is a travel photographer, food lover, and a perpetual traveler who has been travel writing for over 14 years. For many years she lived overseas in Germany, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and the Netherlands teaching the children of the US. military. She’s visited over 90 countries, and she’s not stopping anytime soon.

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Monday 2nd of March 2020

Turkey is definitely on the list and now a hammam is! This is such a comprehensive guide! Thank you for sharing.

Corinne Vail

Wednesday 4th of March 2020

I'm glad you liked it Gabby.

Talek Nantes

Sunday 1st of March 2020

This is one of the world's great cities. I thought Galata Tower was a bit overrated but the rest of the city is marvelous.

It is a great city!

Susan Pazera

Wonderfully detailed information and photos - thank you!

Katie | KatieGoes

The hammam sounds exactly what I need right now!

It's such a great experience!

Tuesday 14th of August 2018

I’m going to Turkey for 5 days at the beginning of October and Want to try and visit 1-2 cities other than Istanbul. What do you recommend? Better yet - what should I do in 5 days?

Wednesday 15th of August 2018

Hi Sabrina, Five days is enough to do Istanbul and maybe try to get to Cappadocia. You will need time in both places. They are amazing to visit.

The First-Timer’s Istanbul Travel Guide

Posted on Last updated: March 28, 2024

EDITOR’S NOTE: Please be advised that this Istanbul travel guide hasn’t been updated in 2024. Prices and travel guidelines may no longer be accurate so it’s important that you verify any information before proceeding.

Istanbul is incredible. It’s one of the most awe-inspiring cities we’ve been to thus far. Home to breathtaking architecture, delicious food, and some of the warmest, most genuinely hospitable people we’ve ever met on our travels, it’s a city we would love to visit again and again.

If you’re looking to visit Istanbul for the first time, then I hope this comprehensive travel guide can help you plan your trip. It will tell you everything you need to know from where to stay, which sights to see, and of course, what food to eat.

We enjoyed Istanbul so much that we could honestly see ourselves living there. Spend just one day in this captivating city and I won’t be surprised if you feel the same way too.

VISIT ISTANBUL QUICK LINKS

This travel guide to Istanbul is long. For your convenience, I’ve compiled links to hotels, tours, and other services here.

Top-rated hotels in Sultanahmet, the most convenient area to stay for first-time visitors to Istanbul.

• Luxury: Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Midrange: Romance Istanbul Hotel Boutique Class
• Budget: Erenler HoTeL & HosTeL
• Sightseeing Tour: Half-Day Highlights Guided Tour
• Food Tour: Istanbul Food and Culture Tour: Taste of 2 Continents
• Museum Pass: Istanbul 5-Day Guided Museum Pass

OTHER SERVICES

• Turkey E-Visa
• Travel Insurance with COVID cover (WFFF readers get 5% off )
• Airport Transfers: Istanbul Airport | Sabiha Gökçen Airport
• Wifi Device / eSIM

Save This on Pinterest!

No time to read this Istanbul travel guide now? Click on the save button and pin it for later!

GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS

Istanbul travel restrictions.

Because of the current global situation, Istanbul travel guidelines have been changing often. Our friends at Booking.com created a website that lists detailed information on travel restrictions around the globe.

Before doing any serious trip planning, be sure to check Booking.com for information on travel restrictions to Turkey. If you do decide to visit Istanbul, then it’s strongly recommended that you get travel insurance with COVID coverage.

HOW TO APPLY FOR AN E-VISA TO TURKEY

Applying for an e-visa to Turkey is easy. Everything is done online and you can have your visa in minutes. You can apply for one yourself on evisa.gov.tr or through iVisa.com .

ISTANBUL AT A GLANCE

Istanbul is the economic, financial, and cultural center of Turkey. It’s also the country’s biggest city with a population of just over 15 million people, making it one of the largest cities in Europe and the world. For those reasons, it’s natural to assume that Istanbul is Turkey’s capital but it isn’t. That distinction goes to Ankara.

Located on both sides of the Bosphorus, what makes Istanbul geographically interesting is that it’s one of a handful of cities that straddles two continents. The western half of the city is situated in Europe while the eastern half is located in Asia.

The Asian side is largely residential so you’ll find most of the city’s major attractions clustered within two districts on the European side – Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu. First-time visitors to the city will be spending much of their time in those two districts.

Istanbul is a city steeped in history and culture so there is much to see and do there. From its Byzantine churches adorned with mosaics and frescoes to its magnificent mosques decorated by sky-high minarets, Istanbul is a city that will mesmerize you at every turn.

BEST TIME TO VISIT ISTANBUL

Spring (March-May) is the best time to visit Istanbul, followed by Autumn (September-November) . Crowds are thinner and the weather is moderate during both seasons, though Autumn sees more rain than Spring.

We went in early November and the weather was near perfect. I was comfortable walking around in a light jacket with just a t-shirt inside. It was overcast on a couple of days but it never rained.

Fans of tulips — which are originally from Turkey, not Holland — will be pleased to know that the International Tulip Festival is held in April with millions of tulips in bloom throughout the city.

MAR-MAY: This is the best time to visit Istanbul. The weather is relatively mild and dry and the city will be awash with color. The next time we visit Istanbul, it will definitely be in April to take part in the tulip festival.

JUNE-AUG: Apart from being the busiest time of the year, June till August can get pretty hot and humid — up to 28°C/82°F. Lines are at their longest and prices at their peak during this time.

SEPT-NOV: Like Spring, Autumn is a great time to visit Istanbul. The weather is similar although it does get rainier in the Fall as described.

DEC-FEB: December till February is low season in Istanbul. It’s the wettest and coldest time of the year so be sure to dress appropriately. It can get rainy and snowy with temperatures dropping down to a frigid 3°C/37°F.

Climate: Annual Monthly Weather in Istanbul

Check out holiday-weather.com for more on the weather in Istanbul . To make it easier for you, I’ve created average temperature and annual rainfall graphs below. Suggested months to visit are colored in orange.

Average Temperature

Annual Rainfall

TRAVELING TO ISTANBUL

International flights will be arriving at either Istanbul (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Assuming you’ll be staying in either Sultanahmet or Taksim (Beyoğlu), here’s how you get to both areas from either airport.

From Istanbul Airport

To sultanahmet.

BY HAVAIST SHUTTLE: One of the cheapest ways to get to Sultanahmet from Istanbul Airport is by Havaist Shuttle (67TL), but it isn’t the easiest. At this time, there’s no direct route so you’ll need to catch the HVIST-12 line to Beyazit Square. From there, you can take a tram to Sultanahmet (5 mins). Please note that you cannot pay for the shuttle with cash, only credit or debit card. Please refer to this website for more information.

BY TAXI: A taxi to Sultanahmet from Istanbul Airport will run you at least 320TL.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: A private transfer from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet will cost at least 45 Euros. You can book it in advance through Get Your Guide .

BY HAVAIST SHUTTLE: This is the easiest way to get to Taksim from Istanbul Airport. For 90TL, you can take the HVIST-16 line all the way to its last stop which is close to Taksim Square. Please note that you cannot pay for the shuttle with cash, only credit or debit card. You can refer to this website for more information.

BY TAXI: A taxi from Istanbul Airport to Taksim will cost you at least 260TL.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: A private transfer from Istanbul Airport to Taksim will cost at least 19 Euros per person. You can book it in advance through Bookaway .

From Sabiha Gökçen Airport

BY HAVABUS: Take the Havabus bound for Taksim (37.50TL). From Taksim, you can either take a taxi to Sultanahmet or walk to the Taksim metro station and take the Taksim-Kabatas funicular to Kabatas (5 mins). From Kabatas, you can take the tram to Sultanahmet station (25 mins). You can refer to this website for more information.

Alternatively, you can take the Havabus from the airport to Kadıköy (28TL). Once in Kadıköy, walk to the Şehir Hatları dock and take the ferry to Eminönü (30 mins). From there, you can either take a taxi to your hotel in Sultanahmet or walk to the Eminönü station and take the tram to Sultanahmet (15 mins). You can check this website for more information.

BY TAXI: A taxi from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet will cost you around 210TL.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: A private transfer from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet will cost at least 45 Euros. You can book it in advance through Get Your Guide .

BY HAVABUS: Take the Havabus bound for Taksim (37.50TL). From there, you can walk or take a taxi to your hotel. You can refer to this website for more information.

BY TAXI: A taxi from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim will cost you around 210TL.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: A private transfer from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim will cost at least 22 Euros per person. You can book it in advance through Bookaway .

Things to Remember

• If you’ll be taking public transportation in Istanbul, then you can save on the fare by purchasing an Istanbulkart. Jump to the TRAVEL TIPS section of this guide for more information.
• There are countless hotels in Istanbul. If you’ll be taking a taxi, then it’s best that you have a printout or screenshot of your hotel’s complete address and telephone number to show the driver.

*Approximate taxi fares and travel times indicated above were derived from the Istanbeautiful website.

This Istanbul travel guide assumed you’ll be arriving by plane, but there may be others ways of getting there depending on where you are. You can check Bookaway or use the widget below to find route options available to you.

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY

Turkey’s unit of currency is the Turkish Lira (TL) .

You can exchange currency at popular tourist areas like Sultanahmet, the Grand Bazaar, around Taksim Square and Istiklal Cadessi, etc. Rates are said to be best at the Grand Bazaar and Sultanahmet but the differences may be insignificant.

You won’t get the best rates at the airports so if you need to exchange currency to get into the city, then you should only change a small amount.

Another option is to withdraw TL from an ATM. It’s quicker than exchanging paper currency and the rates are comparable, some say even better.

Just be sure to contact your bank before your trip as they may have to activate it for overseas use. In my experience, my card works in some machines but not in others. I didn’t have any problems anywhere in Turkey.

NOTE: Some ATM machines may ask if you want to proceed “with or without conversion”. Always proceed WITHOUT conversion so your local bank does the conversion for you. Proceeding “with conversion” authorizes the foreign bank operating the ATM to do the conversion, usually at very poor rates. According to this article, the difference between rates can be as high as 10% or more .

BEST AREAS TO STAY IN ISTANBUL

Based on what we learned from our trip, there are two ideal places to stay in Istanbul for first-time visitors — Sultanahmet and Taksim (Beyoğlu) .

I’ve created the color-coded map below to help you understand where these recommended neighborhoods are. Click on the link for an interactive version of the map. (Please note that marked areas are approximations only)

BLUE – Sultanahmet RED – Taksim (Beyoglu)

SULTANAHMET

The Sultanahmet area is where most of the major tourist sites are located. If you’re traveling to Istanbul for the first time and looking to visit its top tourist attractions, then there’s no better place to stay than Sultanahmet. Here are a few top-rated hotels in Sultanahmet:

You can check these sites to search for more hotels in the Sultanahmet area: Booking.com | Agoda .

TAKSIM (BEYOGLU)

If you want a more contemporary side to Istanbul whilst still having easy access to the Sultanahmet area, then Beyoğlu around Taksim Square may be the better choice.

It’s home to the popular shopping street of Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue) as well as a number of trendy bars and clubs. It’s just a funicular and tram ride away to Sultanahmet making it ideal for first-time visitors as well. Check out these top-rated hotels in Taksim:

• Luxury: Pera Palace Hotel
• Midrange: Hammamhane
• Budget: Hostel Le Banc

You can check these sites to search for more hotels around Taksim Square: Booking.com | Agoda .

You can also book hotels and homestays in Istanbul using the handy map below.

TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN ISTANBUL

Listed below are ten of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. Most are located within the same general area so if you plan well, then you can visit them all in two or three days.

I’ll describe them briefly below but you can jump to the THINGS TO DO section for suggestions on how you can group them together to maximize your time. If you plan on visiting many of these attractions, then we strongly recommend getting an Istanbul tourist discount pass .

1. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

Hagia Sophia or Ayasofya is the most iconic structure in Istanbul. It was once regarded as the greatest church in Christendom and was at one point the largest church ever constructed until St Peter’s Basilica was built a thousand years later in Rome.

If you were to visit just one tourist attraction in Istanbul, then it should be Hagia Sophia. Check out my article on  Sultanahmet Square for more pictures and information.

Admission: FREE

2. Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet)

Hagia Sophia was breathtaking but for me, the Blue Mosque or Sultanahmet may have been even more striking. It’s an imposing sight with its many domes and six towering minarets.

Sultanahmet is grey from the outside but it gets its name from the tens of thousands of blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior.

3. Basilica Cistern

Featured in Dan Brown’s Inferno and the James Bond film  From Russia with Love , the Basilica Cistern is the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. It can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters (2,800,000 cu ft) of water and contains 336 marble columns each measuring 9 meters (30 ft) high.

Admission: 350TL

4. Topkapi Palace & Harem

Topkapi Palace was the court of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. It’s the second most visited attraction in the city, after Hagia Sophia.

Spread out over an area covering 700,000 sq m (7.5 million sq ft), there’s much to see at Topkapi Palace. Don’t miss its lavish Harem and its Treasury featuring precious gems and artifacts, none more impressive perhaps than the 86 carat Kasıkçı (Spoonmaker’s) Diamond.

Check out my article on  Topkapi Palace  for more pictures and information.

Admission: 500TL (Palace, Hagia Irene) / 650TL (Palace, Hagia Irene, Harem)

5. Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahce Palace is the largest palace in Turkey. It served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1887 and from 1909 till 1922. Spread out over an area covering 11.1 acres, it contains 285 rooms, 46 halls, and 6 baths (hamam).

Admission: 650TL

6. Galata Tower

Galata Tower is an iconic landmark and the focal point of many photographs featuring the Bosphorus Strait and Beyoglu. Built in 1348, it served as a watchtower, a prison, and a naval depot, and stood for centuries as the tallest structure in Istanbul.

Admission: 700TL

7. Grand Bazaar

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. It consists of 61 covered streets and over 3,000 shops selling everything from lamps, carpets, jewelry, leather goods, ceramics, and souvenirs.

Both the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are within walking distance from Sultanahmet Square. Click on the link for a DIY walking tour of Istanbul’s Bazaars and Rüstem Pasha Mosque , a small but beautiful mosque near the Spice Bazaar.

You can easily visit the Grand and Spice Bazaars on your own but if you’d like to go on a guided tour, then you can book one through Get Your Guide. Having a guide will be helpful, especially at the Grand bazaar because it’s so big. Follow the link to check out Get Your Guide’s Grand and Spice Bazaar tours .

8. Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar

The Egyptian or Spice Bazaar is considerably smaller than the Grand Bazaar but if you love to cook, then you’ll probably spend even more time here.

The bazaar is home to about a hundred shops selling a colorful and aromatic assortment of spices, teas, nuts, dried fruit, and one of my favorite souvenir food items from Istanbul – lokum or Turkish delight.

9. Istanbul Archaeology Museums

The Istanbul Archaeology Museums is comprised of three museums – the Museum of the Ancient Orient, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the Archaeological Museum. With so much to see here, you could easily spend an entire day going through all three museums.

Check out my article on the  Istanbul Archaeology Museums  for more pictures and information.

Admission: 200TL

10. Chora Church (Kariye Museum) – Temporarily Closed (May 2022)

Compared to the other attractions on this list, Chora Church is out of the way but it’s well worth the effort. It’s home to what many believe to be the most stunning mosaics in Istanbul.

Check out my post on Chora Church (Kariye Museum) in Istanbul for more pictures and information. We visited on our own but if you’d like to go with a guide, then you can choose from one of several Get Your Guide tours that make stops at Chora Church.

THINGS TO DO IN ISTANBUL

1. visit sultanahmet’s top tourist attractions.

As described, Sultanahmet is home to the city’s most important attractions like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and the Blue Mosque. No first-time visit to Istanbul can be complete without visiting all of these places.

Travelers pressed for time can click on the link below to learn how you can visit these attractions in one day. But if you have more time, then it would be best to spread them out over two days.

You can check my post on the top attractions at Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul for more pictures and information, but here’s a quick rundown of what you a can find there:

Ayasofya: The most iconic site in Istanbul and once considered the greatest church in Christendom. Sultanahmet: One of the most striking mosques in Istanbul. Basilica Cistern: The largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. At Meydani: The former location of the Hippodrome of Constantinople. Ibrahim Pasa Palace: Museum featuring an impressive collection of calligraphy and rugs. Topkapi Palace: The court of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Istanbul Archaeology Museums: Museum of the Ancient Orient, Tiled Pavilion, Archaeological Museum.

We visited all these sites on our own but if you want a more in-depth experience, then you may want to go on a guided tour. Get Your Guide offers many different types of Istanbul tours , two of their most popular being the Highlights of Istanbul Tour and the Half-Day Highlights Guided Tour .

If you just want easy access to Istanbul’s top attractions without a guide, then another option would be to go on a Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour . Double-decker buses ply set routes that take you to many of the top attractions in Istanbul, and you can hop on and off as many times as you want for the duration of your pass. Barring traffic, it’s a convenient way to explore the city.

2. Walk Across Galata Bridge and Explore Beyoğlu and Dolmabahce Palace

Home to the iconic Galata Tower and Dolmabahce Palace as well as the city’s most fashionable boulevard in Istiklal Caddesi, the neighborhoods across Galata Bridge provide an interesting mix of old and new that’s different in feel to the time-honored charm of Sultanahmet.

If you enjoy shopping, good food, and perhaps a taste of Istanbul’s nightlife, then this is where you need to be. You can check my post on Galata Bridge, Beyoğlu, and Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul for more pictures and information, but here’s a quick rundown of what you a can find there:

Galata Bridge: Bridge connecting the north and south of European Istanbul. Galata Tower: Former watchtower offering great views of the city. Istiklal Caddesi: The heart of Beyoğlu and Istanbul’s most famous street. Dolmabahce Palace: The biggest palace in Turkey.

As described, you can visit all these sites on your own, but you may want to consider a guided tour as well, especially if you want to learn more about each place. Get Your Guide’s 2-Day Highlights of Istanbul Tour covers Dolmabahce Palace, Istiklal Street, and Taksim.

3. Take a Cruise on the Bosphorus with Şehir Hatları

Going on a scenic all-day cruise of the Bosphorus is one of Istanbul’s greatest pleasures according to many. They’re right.

Şehir Hatları is Istanbul’s official ferry company and offers three Bosphorus Cruises — Full, Short, and Moonlight (Evening). The Short Cruise takes you on a two-hour loop while the Full and Moonlight Cruises last for six hours and take you all the way to Anadolu Kavağı, which is the last dock before the Black Sea.

It’s a charming seaside town where you can have a delicious seafood lunch or dinner by the water. Check out my post on the Bosphorus Cruise with Şehir Hatları for more pictures and information.

You can easily book a Bosphorus cruise yourself at the ferry dock, but you can arrange for one in advance as well through Get Your Guide. They offer many variations of the Bosphorus cruise, some even bundled with onboard dinner and a show. Follow the link to check out Bosphorus cruise options on Get Your Guide.

Activity Duration: 2 or 6 hrs Cost: 65TL (Full), 32TL (Short)

4. Go on a Culinary Walk

Turkish cuisine is interesting. It’s colorful and nuanced and seems as diverse as the country’s landscape. Enjoy one meal at Ciya Sofrasi and you’ll see what I mean.

We did all our own food research but in hindsight, I would have loved to go on a food tour. I think Turkish cuisine is best appreciated (and understood) with the guidance of a knowledgeable local. Get Your Guide can help you with that.

5. Explore the Trendy Asian Side (Kadikoy)

With the majority of tourist attractions located on the European side, most first-time travelers to Istanbul don’t venture into the Asian side of the city. Had it not been for Çiya Sofrası and Walter’s Coffee Roastery, then we wouldn’t have gone there either.

Home to a maze of cafes, bars, restaurants, and some trendy neighborhoods, Kadikoy and the Asian side has much to offer and is well worth a day if you can spare it.

Photo by Kosmogenez via Shutterstock

Estimated Time to Spend: At least half a day

6. Take a Cooking Class

We haven’t done this in Turkey but we often take cooking classes whenever we travel. It’s a fun, hands-on way of learning about the local cuisine.

If you’re spending enough time in Istanbul and want to take a cooking class, then I suggest searching through Cookly. As far as I know, there isn’t a more comprehensive site for one-day cooking classes around the world than Cookly. Follow the link for a list of available cooking classes in Istanbul .

Photo by Cristina.A via Shutterstock

DAY TRIPS FROM ISTANBUL

We traveled around Turkey for two weeks so we went to most of these places on our own, but if you don’t have as much time, then you can visit them on day trips from Istanbul as well. Domestic flights are inexpensive and efficient in Turkey, making these day trips to other regions highly possible.

1. Princes’ Islands

The Princes’ Islands refers to a cluster of nine small islands off the coast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara.

Aside from their pristine pine forests and wooden Victorian cottages, what’s interesting about them is that all forms of motorized transport are banned on the islands. Bicycles and horse-drawn carriages are the default means of transportation, making them an interesting and relaxing place to visit on a day trip from Istanbul.

You can visit the Princes’ Islands by ferry from Kabatas or you can go on a guided tour .

Photo by Ann Stryzhekin via Shutterstock

2. Gallipoli & Troy

If you have an interest in military history, then you may want to spend the day exploring either Gallipoli or Troy.

The city of Troy was the legendary setting of the Trojan War while Gallipoli refers to a slender peninsula that was the main objective of several historical military campaigns that aimed to capture Istanbul.

Get Your Guide offers a few full-day tours to either Gallipoli or Troy. They offer joint tours as well but you’ll need two days to visit both.

Photo by ibrahim Kiroglu via Shutterstock

3. Cappadocia

This was one of the best things we did in our two weeks in Turkey. Cappadocia in Central Anatolia is best known for its unique moon-like landscape dotted with strange rock formations known as fairy chimneys. It’s a spectacular sight from the ground, but even more stunning when viewed from a hot air balloon.

Cappadocia was our favorite destination in Turkey so it’s well worth spending a few days there. But if you’re pressed for time, then you can book a day tour with flights through Get Your Guide .

4. Pamukkale

One of the things we loved most about Turkey was the diversity of its landscape. The moonscape of Cappadocia was the most stunning for us, but not far behind were the calcium travertines of Pamukkale . This ancient spa city is famous for its white terraces made of travertine, a sedimentary rock deposited by water from the seventeen naturally occurring hot springs in the area.

What makes this area even more interesting is that the travertines aren’t its only attraction. Walk to the top of the plateau to explore the ruins of Hierapolis then swim in the mineral-rich waters of Cleopatra’s Pool. At the bottom of this picturesque tree-lined pool are Roman marble columns dating back to the 2nd century BC.

Pamukkale is often visited on a day trip between cities, so going on a day trip from Istanbul is perfect. Get Your Guide offers a 1-day tour of Pamukkale and Hierapolis with flights.

We visited many ruins in Turkey and Aphordisias was by far the most beautiful and well-preserved.

Photo by Suksamran1985 via Shutterstock

Ephesus in Selçuk-Izmir is one of the most visited attractions in Turkey. Built in the 10th Century BC, this ancient city was a key seaport that was once the center of trade and commerce in the ancient world as well as being a hub for early Christianity. We visited several ruins throughout the country and Ephesus was the biggest and most impressive.

We spent a few days in Selçuk to fully explore the area, but you can visit on a 1-day tour from Istanbul as well. This Ephesus day tour with flights from Get Your Guide will take you to Ephesus and Meryem Ana Evi, the final home of the Virgin Mary.

TURKISH FOOD GUIDE

Turkish cuisine is considered one of the world’s greatest because of its diversity, long history, and the legacy left behind by an imperial kitchen. It seemed that every region we visited had something interesting and delicious to offer.

Check out our articles on Turkish food and Istanbul street food for suggestions on what dishes and drinks to look for in Turkey.

WHERE TO EAT IN ISTANBUL

Being such a popular tourist destination, Istanbul is home to a dizzying number of restaurants. From traditional Turkish restaurants to fish restaurants to healthy restaurants that serve vegan and vegetarian food , there’s no shortage of good food to be had in Istanbul.

To help you narrow it down and avoid the tourist traps, we’ve put together this list of 25 of the best restaurants in Istanbul .

25 may still be too many for some travelers so we’ve listed some of our favorites below.

1. Beşiktaş Çıtır Pide Lahmacun Salonu

Kebabs and durum are among my favorite dishes to eat in Istanbul. On our last trip, we probably tried over ten kebab shops but my favorite was Besiktas Citir. Not only does this restaurant serve great kebabs and wraps, but they also make terrific pide and lahmacun.

Located in Besiktas district, Beşiktaş Çıtır Pide Lahmacun Salonu is a great restaurant to visit before or after going to Dolmabahce Palace.

2. Ulaş Balıkçılık

Being a uniquely located city with shores long the Black Sea, the Sea of Marmara, and the Bosphorus Strait, fresh fish is abundant in Istanbul no matter what time of year you go.

Like kebab shops, seafood restaurants are a dime a dozen in Istanbul but our favorite in Beyoglu district is Ulas Balikcilik. It’s a small neighborhood seafood restaurant in Cihangir that serves fresh fish dishes – like these sea bass skewers – at a fraction of the price you’d pay at touristy restaurants.

3. Susam Cafe

Cihangir is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Istanbul. It’s a hilly residential area in Beyoglu district with many interesting restaurants and cafes.

Of all the restaurants we visited in the area, Susam Cafe was probably my favorite. It’s a neighborhood cafe that offers a wide range of breakfast dishes, comfort food, pasta, and vegetarian options.

4. Kumin Vegan Lezzetler

The vegetarian and vegan game is strong in Istanbul, especially on the Asian side. We visited many restaurants that offer healthy options but one of our favorites was Kumin Vegan Lezzetler, a cute vegan restaurant located in the Rasimpasa neighborhood of Kadikoy.

If you’re a vegan or vegetarian or simply enjoying eating healthier meals, then you’ll definitely want to visit this restaurant.

I asked a friend from Turkish Munchies for restaurant recommendations and one of the places he suggested was Baylan, a patisserie that’s been open since 1925. They serve many delicious cakes and desserts but what they’re really known for is kup griye – a heavenly dessert made with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, creme chantilly, ground pistachios, and toffee.

Baylan invented kup gryie so if you’re fond of desserts, then you’ll definitely want to try this. It’s unbelievably delicious.

POINTS OF INTEREST IN ISTANBUL

For your convenience, I’ve created this map so you get a better sense of where everything is. Click on the link for an interactive version of the map. Most of the places recommended in this guide are pinned on this map.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN ISTANBUL

The Istanbul public transportation system is diverse. It’s comprised of metro lines, trams, funiculars, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Unlike city rail systems where you pay the total fare at the start regardless of how many transfers you need to make to get to your destination, transfers are charged separately in Istanbul. A single ride costs 20TL but you can get discounts if you purchase multi-ride tickets. You can check the IETT website for pricing information.

If you plan on taking the public transportation system often, then the Istanbulkart as described in the TRAVEL TIPS section would be an excellent investment. You’ll pay just 9.90TL for the first ride and save on transfer costs as well.

As advised in the THINGS TO DO section of this post, a great way to get around Istanbul to see its top attractions is by Big Bus Tour . It’ll take you to many of its popular attractions and you can get on and off as often as you like for the duration of your pass.

If you like visiting places on your own without a guide, then I think it’s definitely worth it.

HOW MANY DAYS TO STAY / ISTANBUL ITINERARY

Istanbul is a fascinating city with lots to see and do. We stayed five nights and it still didn’t feel long enough. At the very least, you should allow yourself four full days. It’ll be a bit rushed but four days will give you enough time to see the major sights.

For a more comfortable pace with room for spontaneity, I’d say six full days would be perfect, even longer if you can. Here’s a 4-day Istanbul itinerary to help you plan your trip.

ISTANBUL TRAVEL TIPS

1. plan your trip with sygic travel.

If you enjoy trip planning, then you’re going to find Sygic Travel useful. It allows you to plot points of interest on a map so you can see exactly where they are in relation to one another. That way you can group places by day and come up with an efficient itinerary.

Check out my article on the Sygic Travel app for more information. You can download it for free on iOS or Android .

2. Rent a Pocket Wifi Device

Can you go a day in your normal life without access to the internet? Pretty hard right? Now imagine not having a wifi connection in a foreign country. Not being able to do research would make any trip more stressful and less enjoyable. It’s for this reason why we never go anywhere now without renting a pocket wifi device first. Click on the link to rent a pocket wifi device through Get Your Guide .

3. Get an Istanbul Tourist Discount Pass

The 5-day Istanbul Museum Pass was perfect for us but there are a few other discount cards you can get depending on what you want to do in Istanbul. Here’s a quick breakdown of each.

Istanbul Museum Pass

For 700TL, the Istanbul Museum Pass gives you access to most of the sites mentioned in this guide along with a few others within 120 hours after its first use. Admission to Topkapi Palace and its Harem alone will set you back 650TL.

The Istanbul Museum Pass will save you a lot of time as well since you won’t have to line up to buy tickets at every site. Some of these museums are hugely popular, especially during peak seasons, so lines can get pretty long.

Istanbul Tourist Pass

If you want something more comprehensive than the Museum Pass, then you may want to look into getting an Istanbul Tourist Pass. It’s considerably more expensive but it’ll cover almost everything you’ll want to do in Istanbul.

Available in 3-, 5-, and 7-day passes, it’ll entitle you to Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace guided tours, a Bosphorus cruise, Big Bus tour tickets, a Whirling Dervish ceremony, and more. It’ll even provide you with unlimited internet access and one-way transfers from the airport.

Follow the link for more information and to purchase an Istanbul Tourist Pass from Get Your Guide.

Istanbul 5-Day Guided Museum Pass

If entry into these attractions isn’t enough for you, then you may be interested in a 5-Day Guided Museum Pass. It’ll give you access to Istanbul’s top tourist attractions on guided tours.

Follow the link for more information and to purchase an Istanbul 5-Day Guided Museum Pass from Get Your Guide.

4. Know When Museums are Closed

Some of Istanbul’s museums and attractions are closed one day of the week. Know when they close so you can plan your trip accordingly.

• Dolmabahce Palace — Monday
• Topkapi Palace — Tuesday
• Grand Bazaar — Sunday

5. Save Money with an Istanbulkart

If you’ll be staying in Istanbul for more than a couple of days and taking public transportation often, then you may want to get an Istanbulkart. It’s a convenient transport card that’ll save you on the cost of public transportation.

With an Istanbulkart, you’ll pay just 9.90TL per transfer instead of the usual 15TL. Plus, you’ll save on the cost of transfers. The card is transferrable as well so you can use the same card for up to five people.

The card itself costs 60TL and you can buy it at major metro stations like the airport, Sultanahmet, or Eminönü. You’ll need to top it up before you can use it since the 60TL is just for the cost of the card. You can refer to the IETT and Istanbul Clues websites for more information.

6. Check for Istanbul Travel Vouchers

I purchase travel vouchers from many different websites. For Istanbul and Turkey, I like Get Your Guide the best as they have the widest selection of tours, activities, and other travel-related services. You can check out Klook as well.

7. Get Travel Insurance

Though we do get it more often now, travel insurance isn’t something we buy before every trip. Our credit cards give us basic coverage anyway so we only get extra travel insurance if we plan on doing anything that could cause us bodily harm, things like skiing or bungee jumping.

On this Turkey trip, we went horseback riding in Cappadocia so we did purchase travel insurance. Basically, if you plan on doing anything physical, then you may want to pick up a policy.

We get travel insurance from SafetyWing or Heymondo. They’re popular travel insurance companies used by many long-term travelers. You can follow the links to get a free quote from SafetyWing or Heymondo . Get 5% off on Heymondo by using our link.

8. Know When and How Much to Tip

Tipping is modest in Turkey, around 5-10% at inexpensive restaurants and 10-15% at fine dining establishments. For porters and bellhops, EUR 1 per bag should suffice. Taxi drivers aren’t usually given tips but you can round up to a convenient amount (ie 17.20TL to 18TL).

If you were happy with a tour, then a group tip of around EUR 10-15 will be appreciated. Keep in mind that this is the total tip from the entire group, not each individual. You can refer to this website for more information.

9. Bring the Right Power Adapter

Electrical outlets in Turkey are round so plugs are typically Type C or Type F. Be sure to bring the right power adapters for your devices. Electrical voltage is 230V.

I’m by no means an expert on Istanbul or Turkey but I do hope that this travel guide helps you plan your trip. I’m only sharing some of the things I learned from the time we spent there. If you have any suggestions, then please feel free to let us know in the comment section below.

Thanks for stopping by and have an awesome time exploring the mesmerizing city of Istanbul!

These are some of the things we brought with us to Istanbul. See what’s in our backpack for a complete list of our travel gear. (NOTE: The following links are Amazon and other affiliate links . )

This Istanbul travel guide contains affiliate links. We’ll earn a small commission if you make a booking at no additional expense to you. We only recommend products and services that we use ourselves and firmly believe in. We really appreciate your support as this helps us make more of these free travel guides. Thank you!

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Friday 30th of December 2022

Great help with all the information provided , using some of your links to make bookings. Just wondering, as milked a beer, and can’t find prices on line, how much is a pint of local beer, in average bars in tourist areas

Thank you for all

Saturday 22nd of October 2022

Good tips. But I don't recommend Istanbul for a tour.

I landed on the night of 10/17/2022 at Istanbul Airport (IST). Before the flight, I purchased a transfer service through Booking.com for the transfer from the airport to the hotel, for 32 pounds sterling.

Upon arrival at the airport, I did not meet the driver at the agreed location (exit 13) and spoke with a driver who was there. I showed him the name and phone number of the person who was supposed to pick me up. He called then and on the other end of the line someone impersonated the driver who was supposed to pick me up, saying that there was a mistake and that I should make the ride with the one I had found. A price of 3590.00 Turkish Lira was placed and payment would be accepted by credit card. As I was very tired, it was late at night and I didn't know the rate of the Turkish lira, I accepted it. On leaving the airport, the local called a colleague to accompany the trip.

On the way, they stopped at the first ATM and I was forced to withdraw the money. At that moment, I saw that it was a coup and that my life was in danger. Upon arriving at the hotel, I took a photo of the license plate and asked the receptionists for help. I couldn't sleep that night.

The next morning I went to the tourist police station. I told him what had happened and the police officer only said that he would contact the owner of the vehicle and talk to him about returning the money.

On the night of 10/19/2022, a representative of the vehicle owner went to the hotel and the hotel manager brokered the contact and negotiation. The two, representative and manager, said it would only fit me 85.00 euros as there would be fees to cover. I paid the equivalent of 225.00 euros for the criminal race and received only 85 euros at the end. No policial report was registered. I was coerced and robbed. This is all completely absurd. Crime and impunity prevail here.

I hired a guide for a walking tour of the historic center, but he didn't show up. You receive less service than the amount paid at the hotel and they always try to overcharge you. There is a lot of opportunism and exploitation for the tourist.

Tourism is done with transparency, honesty and trust. I leave Istanbul sad and very disappointed. I don't recommend this city to anyone.

JB & Renée

Monday 31st of October 2022

I'm really sorry to hear about your bad experience in Istanbul Igor. While we've been fortunate to never experience anything negative, I can understand why your experiences would put you off to Istanbul. Hopefully, you can give it another chance in the future. All the best and safe travels.

Anand Keshav

Tuesday 8th of February 2022

Excellent Blog. Extremely useful. Thank a ton.

Friday 11th of February 2022

Happy to help Anand!

Tuesday 11th of May 2021

Thanks for this useful post. I want to do a cruise on the Bosphorus, there are so many choices, not sure which one to take but I found one, Bosphorus Sunset Cruise top-rated on trip advisor. Do you have any suggestions on that? I want to give it a try on this one bosphorustour.com Thanks for your feedback.

Wednesday 12th of May 2021

You're welcome Asley! I don't have personal experience with that company so I can't speak on it, but I did check their TripAdvisor reviews and they have 5 stars. I wouldn't have any reservations about them. Another place you can look is Get Your Guide. Just do a search for Bosphorus cruise to see what's available. Those are all vetted and many have ratings and reviews so you can choose the best one for you. Hope that helps!

Tuesday 20th of April 2021

Great info. The costs section does not appear to be accurate/updated: "This is also subjective but based on our experience, I’d say around 50TL for the day per person with drinks. Budget more if you plan on dining at fancier restaurants." 50TL is $6 per day. Am I missing something? We're headed there in September. Thanks -- Chris

Wednesday 25th of May 2022

@Chris, Did you end up going to Istanbul last year? Your comments about costs caught my eye, because even 75 TL per day (quoted by the host of website) is extremely low: currently only 4.50 usd per day. I know the economy is crazy right now, but is it really that cheap there? We are going in September. Also, was it amazing? ;^D

Thanks for pointing that out Chris. 50TL is indeed on the low side but not out of the question for people traveling on a budget. Current price for a durum is about 15TL and a lahmacun is around 10TL. We avoid overpriced touristy restaurants but 75TL would be a more comfortable number for the average traveler. I'll go ahead and update the guide. Enjoy Turkey!

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Travel tips Istanbul in Turkey: Our experiences + highlights of Istanbul!

In this blog you can read more about our time in Istanbul, Turkey. I also share some useful tips for Istanbul and I select the best hotels and hostels when you go backpacking and get through Istanbul!

We are in Turkey! After two wonderful weeks in the Netherlands (we could have easily stayed a week longer, it was so nice to be back after four months of travelling in Africa), we packed our backpacks again. They are very heavy this time: we have party clothes for a wedding with us and warm clothes for the Annapurna hike in Nepal. But first: Istanbul!

Four days of sightseeing and eating in Istanbul!

After a long travel day (something with strikes of the Dutch farmers and the Dutch railway system which couldn’t handle this) we arrive exhausted at Sabiha airport in Istanbul.

An hour later we are at our hostel. The coming nights we will sleep in the Jumba Hostel , a nice, quirky hostel in the middle of the central Taksim district. Everywhere around us are trendy restaurants and a few hours later we sit in one of them with our friends Willemijn and Jiri. Willemijn is a friend of mine from Maastricht. As a digital nomad, she and her friend Jiri travel the world full-time. Coincidentally they were now in Istanbul, we have not seen each other for almost two years so when she sent me a message for some drinks, that was quickly arranged. We have a lot to talk about and with four of us, it is a very pleasant evening!

Must read before visiting Cappadocia: highlights Cappadocia blog!

Sleepwalking through the old city of Istanbul

With a lot of effort, we get up the next morning. During our last days in the Netherlands we didn’t sleep much, add to that a tiring travel day + two wines yesterday … we are actually still very tired. But we don’t have much time here in Istanbul so after breakfast we head out. Well… we head our for four times … I forget plasters, Ries forgets his sunglasses, and I forget to take my wedding outfit along to bring it to the dry cleaner. It’s clear: we are not really awake yet.

Sunset in Istanbul

And so we relax in our room during the hottest part of the day while watching The Big Bang Theory. At the end of the day, we have enough energy to go out and so we watch the sunset from a beautiful park and then eat the tastiest fish wraps ever!

Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia

After a wonderful night of sleep, we are much more rested! Time for a second attempt to visit the Blue Mosque. We are early and walk around through the beautiful building. Unfortunately, almost the entire inside is under construction, so, to be honest, this is a bit disappointing.

An hour later we arrive at the equally impressive Hagia Sofia. Hagia Sofia was originally a Christian church, was then converted into a mosque and got turned into a museum in the early twentieth century when there was disagreement among Muslims and Christians about its purpose destination. The structure is at least as beautiful on the inside as on the outside, with age-old mosaics, murals and stained glass. Furthermore, it’s so amazing to walk around in a building that is almost 1500 years old!

Tip: we bought our tickets for Hagia Sofia online in advance. This saves a lot of waiting time in line! Click here to also book tickets and a tour.

Hot air balloons in Cappadocia : The best locations to spot them!

Having a fight about Little Hagia Sofia

At noon, outside again on the large square where the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia are located, Ries proposes to take a short walk that is in the Lonely Planet and leads past the small Hagia Sofia. I agree although I notice that it is hot and I am starting to get a bit hungry … And whoever knows me a bit sees the ingredients for a cranky Charlotte in the above sentence.

And yes, there we go: Ries loses his way because the Lonely Planet does not describe the route well (and because looking at the map is not his strongest side). I feel the sweat dripping down my spine, my appetite has turned into hunger and after an hour of wandering around, I grab the phone from Ries’ hands and start walking also in the wrong direction angrily. Ries, in his turn, is insulted and so we wander through Istanbul for another hour while no restaurant is good enough …

Recognizable to someone? Those moments are also part of travelling. However, you hardly ever read about this because hey, who likes to air his dirty laundry outside? However, when I read these kinds of stories in other blogs I appreciate it too. It gives a better perspective of travelling in general. It is not always fun. That is why I share this too.

Read all about our Turkey itinerary in this blog!

The Grand Bazaar

After a baguette with feta and honey, the fight is settled quickly and the hunger satisfied. We do find out, however, that in we have some trouble with a cancelled pin transaction at a Turkish bank called Akbank. Although we cancelled it, the transaction is nevertheless debited and most likely the machined spewed our money out when we already left. Unfortunately, we get zero response from Akbank to our complaint.

One advantage: we literally have no money to be tempted to buy something in the grand bazaar. And believe me, that temptation is great because there are a lot of nice things. The grand bazaar surprises us a lot: it is much less crowded and chaotic than we expected and most sellers leave us alone. We stroll around, look around with big eyes and then go back to our hostel to cool off with a cold shower. In the evening we visit a local yoga school and take part in a very nice but hard yoga session.

Visiting Akbank and buying a new Fujifilm camera filter

Unfortunately, our problem with the Akbank ATM has not been resolved. And, so we have to visit the office. After waiting an hour and a half we are told that they cannot do anything for us. Pretty annoying and we definitly can advise against ever using this bank. Fortunately, at our next stop, Ries finds the perfect polarizing filter for his Fujifilm camera. A polarizing filter is often used in front of the camera lens in order to darken skies, manage reflections, or suppress glare from the surface of lakes of the sea. This allows him to take even better photos, especially in the mountains of Cappadocia and the Himalaya.

The rest of the day we take it easy, we do some shopping on the Kalverstraat of Istanbul: the Istiklal C.D. where the H&M, Zara and Decathlon are located. I need new sport shirts, some jewellery for the wedding of Axel and Gokce where we are going next week and Ries is looking for new slippers. Along the way, we stop for a cold lemonade on the terrace (it’s 30 degrees outside). It’s nice people watching and enjoying the beautiful weather. At the dry cleaner we pick up my wedding outfit and in the evening we eat traditional Turkish with a vegetarian twist.

Drinks with a view of Istanbul: a classic rooftop bar

We celebrate our last evening in Istanbul with a drink in the rooftop bar of hotel Marmara Pera . This hotel has a beautiful roof terrace from where you can see the entire city. Visiting roof terraces for a drink is something that we try to do when we visit big cities every now and then. It’s a way of getting away from the budget hotels and budget meals, dress up nicely and then chat with a glass of wine and cocktail about what the future will bring us. A very nice end to our wonderful time in Istanbul.

The next day we fly on to Cappadocia, a great place that will soon have a travel guide online. And then we enjoy the spectacular wedding of Axel and Gokce in Antalya for four days.

My top tips for Istanbul:

Four days is actually far too little to see this huge city. I have received many tips from readers about what we really should not miss in Istanbul, far too many to do unfortunately but here is a small selection of things that we really should not miss during a trip to Istanbul!

Eat fish wraps at the port

Every day there are dozens of fishermen on the Galata Köprüsü (Istanbul’s most famous bridge). You can eat their catch in the evening at one of the small street barbecues where the fish is grilled and then wrapped in a delicious wrap. Perhaps the tastiest food I ate in all of Istanbul!

See the sunset with a view of the Istanbul skyline

The Asian part of Istanbul is located across the Bosphorus. On day two we went by ferry to the hilly park Buyuksehir Belediyesi Fethipasa . After a steep climb to the top of the hill, we looked out at the Istanbul skyline during sunset. Recommended! Also nice to sail a bit over the Bosphorus by ferry (and a good budget tip, only € 0.60 round trip!)

Travel budget Turkey: What does a trip through Turkey cost?

Havabus: the shuttle bus from the airports to the city

Upon arrival in Istanbul, we took a way too expensive taxi to the city. It turned out that we could have travelled to the centre with Havabus just as quickly and considerably cheaper. So we did for the following flights. Havabus runs from both Istanbul airport and Sabiha for 18 TL per person to the centre.

Roasted corn cobs and Simit on the street

The Turkish version of the pretzel stand: everywhere in Istanbul you will find small stands where corn cobs and Simit, the Turkish pretzel, are sold. Delicious!

Buy an Istanbul Kart for public transportation!

Buy an Istanbul Kart for less than € 1.50, with which you can travel by public transport for much less money. You can buy this card at small kiosks on the street. If you hand in the card, you will also receive the purchase amount back.

Nice hotels in Istanbul

Hereby some good ho(s)tels for Istanbul that we visited ourselves or that we spoke to other travellers about!

Tip: book your ho(s)tels for Istanbul on time. Because booking.com is currently being blocked in Turkey, you cannot book accommodation if you are already in Turkey. So book from another country, then everything will go well!

Jumba hostel  €

We slept in this cozy hostel. Right in the center with a very nice atmosphere, a small roof terrace and both private rooms and dorms. From € 10 per person.

Eternity hotel €€

This modern hotel is located in the old center, within walking distance of all sights. The rooms are sleek and there is a roof terrace. From € 64 per person.

Galata 12 €

This nice apartment is located in the center of Istanbul, close to the metro and the Galata tower. It is in a quiet street and has good facilities. From € 38 for two people.

More blogs about Turkey

Must read before visiting cappadocia turkey: travel guide cappadocia, itinerary turkey: the ultimate itinerary for 2 weeks of traveling around in turkey, travel budget turkey: how expensive is backpacking and a trip in turkey, the best locations to view hot air balloons in cappadocia (turkey).

Istanbul is a really beautiful city, thank you for this article.

Hi Charlotte. Congratulations on the article. But I had a bad experience in Istanbul and I don't recommend a trip to this city. I don’t recommend Istanbul for a trip. I landed on the night of 10/17/2022 at Istanbul Airport (IST). Before the flight, I purchased a transfer service through Booking.com for the transfer from the airport to the hotel, for 32 pounds sterling. Upon arrival at the airport, I did not meet the driver at the agreed location (exit 13) and spoke with a driver who was there. I showed him the name and phone number of the person who was supposed to pick me up. He called then and on the other end of the line someone impersonated the driver who was supposed to pick me up, saying that there was a mistake and that I should make the ride with the one I had found. A price of 3590.00 Turkish Lira was placed and payment would be accepted by credit card. As I was very tired, it was late at night and I didn’t know the rate of the Turkish lira, I accepted it. On leaving the airport, the local called a colleague to accompany the trip. On the way, they stopped at the first ATM and I was forced to withdraw the money. At that moment, I saw that it was a coup and that my life was in danger. Upon arriving at the hotel, I took a photo of the license plate and asked the receptionists for help. I couldn’t sleep that night. The next morning I went to the tourist police station. I told him what had happened and the police officer only said that he would contact the owner of the vehicle and talk to him about returning the money. On the night of 10/19/2022, a representative of the vehicle owner went to the hotel and the hotel manager brokered the contact and negotiation. The two, representative and manager, said it would only fit me 85.00 euros as there would be fees to cover. I paid the equivalent of 225.00 euros for the criminal race and received only 85 euros at the end. No policial report was registered. I was coerced and robbed. This is all completely absurd. Crime and impunity prevail here. I hired a guide for a walking tour of the historic center, but he didn’t show up. I paid for a laundry at the hotel to deliver clean and ironed clothes but they only delivered clean ones. Anyway… a very negative experience. Tourism is done with transparency, honesty and trust. I leave Istanbul sad and very disappointed. I don’t recommend this city to anyone.

Hi Igor, Sorry to hear this but I think you might have just had really bad luck. I don't believe that since you had a lot of bad experiences, all toursim is done with transparency, honesty and trust. Also not in Istanbul. Again, very sorry to hear about your experience but I really don't think is the case for everyone going to Istanbul. Kind regards, Charlotte

Hi Charlotte, Thanks for sharing. I believe that such blog posts are very helpful especially for the first time visitors. Istanbul is very complicated, huge and crowded. Careful planning is needed. Reading Igor's comment, yes, bad experiences might happen but again, they can be avoided with good planning. Best regards,

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15 Things To Know Before Visiting Turkey + 11 Best Turkey Travel Tips

This post may contain affiliate links. This means that for any qualifying purchase you make through one of my links, I may earn a small commission, at no cost to you. For more information, check out my disclosure .

Are you visiting Turkey soon? I am glad! This is a country that has a lot to offer. It’s easy to see why it’s a travelers’ favorite.

My sister and I have recently visited Turkey. We loved it – there are many incredible places to visit, mysterious landscapes and unique experienced to be had.

However, to be honest we were often taken aback by some of the things we experienced and wished we had gone in better prepared. In some cases, we were positively surprised. In other instances, we simply had to quickly learn how to deal with the situation.

Learning from my experience, I thought I’d share with you some essential things you need to know before visiting Turkey, as well as some useful Turkey travel tips that will help you make the most of your time in the country and have a smooth trip.

If you are looking for inspirations on places to visit and things to do in the country, read my post The Best Places To Visit In Turkey .

Table of Contents

What You Must Know Before Visiting Turkey

Is turkey safe.

The first thing you are likely going to wonder before visiting Turkey is “Is Turkey safe?”

Good news! Turkey is a safe destination to travel to. Every year thousands upon thousands of foreign travelers visit Turkey and have a completely trouble-free time.

However, just like with any big tourist destinations, there are some things to look out for. Petty crime can happen so it’s always a good idea to keep your belongings close to you and keep vigilant in busy places such as in the street, in markets and on public transport.

Try to blend in as much as possible. That means not wearing expensive jewelry or strolling around with expensive handbags and electronics. Make sure your accommodation is well-reviewed and that the location is in a safe area of a town or city.

Scams in Turkey definitely occur and they are something to look out for, especially in a big city like Istanbul. Normal grifts to look out for include taxi drivers hiking up the price of a trip, and being overcharged in bars and restaurants.

The advice is to ignore overly-friendly strangers who want to invite you into their shop for a cup of tea. And if a deal seems too good to be true then the chances are that it probably is.

Turkey and neighboring Syria sadly made it into the global headlines recently with the devastating earthquake that took place in the southeast of Turkey on 6 February 2023. While uncommon, earthquakes do happen in Turkey and it’s a good idea to get to grips with any local safety procedures that need to be followed in the event of an earthquake.

English is not widely spoken

Although Turkey bridges Asia and Europe, don’t arrive expecting English to be widely spoken. In fact, the proficiency of English across the country is relatively low with only around 15 to 20 percent of the country having just a basic level of English.

In Istanbul and in big tourist destinations many people will have some level of English and it’s common for the younger generation to have an understanding of English.

What’s however surprising is that in many hotels and restaurants staff either speak no English, or have very basic English.

We actually truly struggled because of this, and I won’t deny that out trip was affected by it. We can literally count the number of people we were able to have a conversation with on one hand; and we found that often even those that spoke some English have such a strong accent that it is hard to understand.

Usually, if you do need some help and the person you’re asking doesn’t speak English, chances are they will either take out their phone and use google translate, or find someone who can or help you out.

However, don’t be surprised if someone walks away or dismisses you when you ask a question in English. It happened to us quite a few times and well – it was not nice.

Currency in Turkey

The currency in Turkey is the Turkish lira. One lira is made up of 100 kuruş coins.

First introduced during the rule of the Ottoman Empire in 1844, it was originally called the Ottoman lira. The Ottoman lira was then replaced at the start of the twentieth century by the Turkish lira after the Turkish War of Independence.

2005 brought the revaluation of the nation’s money which was intended to make its large notes more simple for users to manage. Then a few years later in 2009, a new series of banknotes were introduced which are the lira that are in use today.

It’s more expensive than you’d imagine

Those visiting Turkey for a trip on a shoestring budget might want to think again. While Turkey isn’t the most expensive destination in the world, the prices of things such as activities and group tours can add up to more than you originally planned.

If you want to take part in activities such as hot air balloon rides and spa trips — as well as visiting lots of historic sites — then you will want to save up some extra cash.

Having said that, there is a good range of budget and mid-range hotels and a lot of low-cost local street food to enjoy. However, if you are looking at slightly higher range hotels or restaurants, expect prices to be in line with those of other European capitals.

The inflation rate is crazy

The inflation rate in Turkey is something that causes a lot of issues. The prices for things such as meals, hotels, and groceries are regularly increasing all of the time. Even tickets to tourist attraction get more expensive by the day, and you will often notice they have a sticker with the price tag over what would be their old price.

April 2023 saw a year-over-year inflation rate of almost 44%. Energy increased by 12.9% and food was a huge 53.9%.

While this does not really affect tourists visiting Turkey for a few weeks as much as it does the local Turkish population it is worth noting.

During your trip there you may find that prices are shown in Euros for some tourist-orientated shops, and there are reports of travelers being occasionally asked to change British pound coins or Euro coins to larger notes as the value of the lira is so low.

Hagia Sophia is no longer a museum

Hagia Sophia is the beautiful architectural wonder of Istanbul. Combining a variety of architectural styles from Byzantine to Ottoman, it was first commissioned by the Roman Emperor Justinian in 537.

A thousand years later in 1453, the Christian church was converted into an Islamic mosque by Sultan Mehmet II (also known as Mehmet the Conqueror).

The 1930s saw the building become deconsecrated and turned into a museum for tourists to visit. The first and second time I went to Istanbul getting inside was fairly easy and visiting was a really pleasant experience.

However, in 2020, Hagia Sophia became a mosque once more. This has quite a few consequences for travelers in Istanbul.

First of all, it means you really can’t visit during prayer time. In turn, this causes really long lines to get in, as visitors wait for prayer’s time to be over.

With this in mind, the best time to visit Hagia Sophia is either 10:00 am, which is just about when the morning prayer finishes, or 2:00 pm, once the afternoon prayer is over.

So here’s one of my essential Turkey travel tips for you: head to Hagia Sophia no later than 9:30 am and start waiting in line to get in once the prayer is over.

I also recommend joining a guided tour such as this one which also goes to the Blue Mosque. It’s the one my sister and I took and we found the guide masterfully dodge the crowds.

For guidance on visiting Istanbul, you should read my post The Best 4 Days Istanbul Itinerary .

You will hear the call to prayer in most places

One of the best parts of traveling is experiencing different cultures. As many people in Turkey are Muslim you can expect to hear the call to prayer echoing out across different areas of the country.

The time of Ezan or Call to Prayer will change depending on where you are in the country and the time of year you will be visiting Turkey, as it depends on the geographical distance from Mecca as well as the time of sunrise and sunset.

The first call to prayer is early in the day and calls out to followers to get out of bed and pray. It’s quite a wonderful sound to hear the caller’s chant reverberating off of the buildings, but if you are a light sleeper and notice you are staying near a mosque, you may want to bring a pair of earplugs!

There are lots of cats

Cats are pretty much everywhere in Turkey. They’re in shops, schools, churches, museums, hotels and they definitely hang out around restaurants. The estimated number of stray cats in Istanbul is thought to be between 125,0000 and one million! That’s without taking people’s pet cats into consideration.

A Turkish sokak kedisi or “street cat” is simply part of the everyday life of the country and it has been for centuries. Nobody really knows about the origins of Turkey’s love of cats but some say it comes from the time of Ottoman rule.

Locals like to look out for the street cats by putting out bowls of food and water. Some people make shelters for them to keep warm in the winter. When visiting Turkey don’t be surprised to see cats all over the place — we spotted on even inside the Hagia Sophia!

You should also read my post Why Are There So Many Cats In Turkey?

Dogs are also a mainstay of a Turkish town or city. Canines may not be quite as prevalent as cats, but you will still see dogs hanging out at ancient city ruins (we spotted a few friendly and very relaxed ones in Ephesus) or sleeping on the side of the streets.

There are lots of people who also look out for the welfare of these stray dogs, with a variety of different charities that make it their task to feed the animals and ensure they have proper veterinary treatment.

Dietary restrictions can be an issue

Turkey has some truly delicious cuisine. The various breads, meats, and cheese that make up Turkish meals are so tasty that Turkish restaurants can be found in cities around the world.

The only downside of diving into Turkey’s mouth-watering food scene is that it can be something of a challenge for those with dietary requirements. It certainly was for me and it was a real struggle to explain that there are a number to ingredients that are a no-no in my case.

If you are visiting Turkey with lactose intolerance, or an allergy to peppers (I am lactose intolerant and severely allergic to peppers), then you may find it hard to fully enjoy the food.

Peppers are a key ingredient in Turkish food and seem to make their way into every dish. The same also goes for vegans (or people who are lactose intolerant) as the non-meat alternatives are usually cheese which is also very limiting.

The issue is that most restaurants normally prepare the bases for most of their dishes in advance, so when you try to order, there is no way they can make a dish without a specific ingredient that is already there.

Personally, I only really enjoyed food when it was specifically prepared for me without the ingredients I can’t have – our guide would call whenever we had a home cooked meal and in those cases the food was delicious!

Another issue you may encounter is the actual lack of understanding – of English, which means it’s difficult to convey your requests, and of dietary requirements in general. Let me elaborate further, though.

Oftentimes, waiters don’t really speak English, which means you have to make a massive effort to explain that you can’t have a specific ingredient. But even when you think that you have fully explained yourself, they will come with a dish that surely has the ingredients you asked not to include.

I also found that there is a lack of appreciation for allergies and intolerances. It’s like you are being picky rather than simply allergic.

Another thing I should point out is that dairy free options at breakfast are hardly available even in the best hotels. I was only able to get soya milk in Istanbul. On other occasions, I simply went to the local store and got it myself and once we called the hotel prior to our arrival so that they could arrange some lactose free milk for me.

Turkish breakfast is a thing

Foodie travelers rejoice. Turkish breakfast is a thing and it’s delicious. Sometimes the hardest thing when you’re on a trip is working out where to get breakfast from. But in Turkey, you’ll be spoilt for choice because there’re so many amazing places to grab a Turkish breakfast.

Turks tuck into kahvalti (breakfast) every day of the week and it’s the perfect thing to get your set for a busy day of sightseeing.

Turkish kahvalti is a hearty spread of a variety of local foodstuffs that is a must-try if you’re in Istanbul (or elsewhere in the country) – or at least it is for people who don’t have food allergies or intolerances.

Indeed, Turkish breakfast isn’t the best thing to eat for vegans or if you’re lactose intolerant as it contains various kinds of cheese and meets.

So, what’s in it? Expect your Turkish breakfast tray to contain at least two or three cheeses. There’s often kasseri, which is a hard cheese made from unpasteurized sheep’s milk; feta cheese (beyaz peynir), a staple; and also lor, which is similar to cottage cheese, but made from uncured goats-milk.

Bread makes up a main part of breakfast and is the perfect vessel for the selection of cheeses and sweet spreads on the platter. Simit is the standard bread used. The bagel-like doughy creation is topped with sesame seeds and sold all over Turkey.

Spreads and jams come in a choice of flavors. Fruity jam varieties run from apricot and fig to cherry. There’s also olive spread, tahini, and moreish hazelnut spreads.

Eggs and meat also make an appearance. Menemen is scrambled eggs cooked with peppers, tomatoes, and onions and topped with oregano; sucuk is a spiced beef sausage that is fried to make it the ideal accompaniment.

Coffee is amazing

Coffee lovers visiting Turkey are in for a treat: this is the land of coffee and it is strong.

Cups of coffee can be picked up in coffee shops all over the country. Believed to be introduced by merchants traveling to the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century, Suleiman the Magnificent popularized drinking coffee.

Strong coffee was thought of as a drug by strict interpretations of the Quran and it was banned by Sultan Murad IV. But coffee had already made its mark on society and the ban was lifted because it was just so popular among the population.

Turkish coffee was so influential that by the mid-17th century, it had made its way over to France and Britain, and a Turkish man opened up the first coffeehouse in Britain during the same period.

Drinking coffee in modern-day Turkey remains a popular pastime and part of everyday life. Made using a long-handled metal pot called a cezve, the coffee is finely ground to a powder using a traditional brass grinder.

Turkish coffee is usually drunk from a small cup, but make sure all of the powdered coffee has sunk to the bottom first.

There’s also “Ottoman coffee” which is slightly different and uses a variety of spices and flavorings including cardamom, carob, and chocolate.

Unfortunately, at hotels coffee can be horrible (instant coffee-like), so stick to the cafes outside your accommodation for a good cup.

Locals drink tea all the time

Coffee is not the only beverage that is popular in Turkey. Tea is really popular in Turkey. In fact, Turkey has the highest tea consumption in the world per capita with a total annual consumption of over 3 kilograms of tea per person.

Made using two çaydanlık teapots stacked on top of each other, tea is drunk from small glass cups called ince belli (which literally translates to “slim-waisted”) and traditionally served without milk but with sugar cubes of beet sugar.

Tea is a big part of life in Turkey and is drunk at social gatherings, tea shops, at home, and in tea gardens. In fact, tea is usually the drink of choice after a meal!

Traffic in Istanbul is insane

Istanbul is a wondrous city, but one thing you should know is that the traffic is hectic. Getting from one place to the next can take a really long time if you choose to travel by car, Uber, or even by bus.

To give you an idea, on our way back from Cappadocia we landed in Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, which is on the Asian side of Istanbul. The airport is just 26 km (16.1 miles) from Sultanahmet, where we were staying, and we took a transfer.

In most places in the world, you can cover that distance in no more than 30 minutes – perhaps 40, if there is traffic. Well, It took us 3 hours (yes, three hours) to make it to our hotel. That’s how bad traffic in the city can be.

Turkey is a popular medical tourism destination

In recent years the medical tourism industry in Turkey has boomed. Travelers from across Europe and the rest of the world book special trips to clinics and private hospitals in order to access lower-cost medical care.

Most of the time, the medical procedures that are undertaken are related to cosmetic surgery with people opting for dental implants, hair implants, and weight loss surgery in Turkey as the cost is a snip of the price of places such as the UK.

Don’t be surprised if you see people recovering in your hotel with bandages or even on your flight home.

If you are thinking of visiting Turkey to undergo some kind of treatment during your trip, the advice is not to make any rushed decisions. Researching the hospital or clinic thoroughly before you hand over any cash is really important.

Best Turkey Travel Tips

Best time to visit turkey.

Turkey has a Mediterranean climate with summers that are warm and dry and winters that are relatively mild. The best time to visit Turkey really does depend on your travel itinerary. For example, if you want to include a trip to Cappadocia during your trip then it’s best to avoid visiting in April when the region receives a lot of rainfall.

The summer months run between June through to September and are a good time of year to visit if all you want to do is relax on the beach or by a pool.

Temperatures in the summer peak in July with an average daily high of 35°C. Visiting historic sites may be uncomfortable during the summer heat and it can also be crowded with many local tourists on their summer break too.

The shoulder seasons fall in April, May, September, and October. This is a good time to visit Turkey because temperatures are pleasant this time of year, ranging between a more comfortable 20°C to 30°C (though remember what I have said about rain and Cappadocia).

Temperatures in the winter months vary. November through to March sees lower temperatures and some hotels closing for the season in coastal resorts. January is the coldest month of the year when the country sees average daily highs of 14°C and lows around 5°C.

But the winter months can be a good time of year to visit Turkey as there are fewer crowds and temperatures are much more comfortable when compared to the summer months.

Use Uber rather than hailing a taxi

Taxis in Istanbul don’t have the best reputation. In fact, they are notorious for ripping off customers with scam pricing. To avoid any nasty taxi upsets, you can use Uber in Istanbul.

The only thing is that it is a little different when compared to Uber in other destinations, as it can only be used to hail official taxis. The options are yellow taxis or (the more expensive) blue taxis.

In fact, it’s better to walk or use the metro in Istanbul

My sister and I only used Uber once during our time in Istanbul. We walked everywhere and used the excellent city’s metro system or the light rail to cover longer distances, as at least they don’t have to battle the terrible traffic.

The metro covers 128 kilometers (80 miles), with line M2 passing through a selection of shopping districts and stops near to Taksim Square and other famous sights.

There’s also the tram, which boasts four modern tramlines and two vintage routes that connect the historical districts.

Ferries are also a fun way to get around Istanbul. This affordable public transport option also doubles up as a sightseeing activity as routers cross the Bosphorus from both the European and Asian sides.

Finally, Istanbul also features two funicular lines plus a cable car to the famous viewpoint at Pierre Loti Cafe.

Getting an Istanbulkart is a good idea if you’re staying in the city for a few days. The transport card gives you 30% off public transport fares.

Learn a few words of Turkish

As I have said before, English isn’t really spoken in Turkey. So, one of my Turkey travel tips for you is to learn some basic Turkish.

It’s always a good idea to get at least a few local phrases under your belt when you’re heading to a new destination. Before you take your trip to Turkey take the time to learn just a few local phases that will not only help you if you get stuck but also bring you closer to local communities during your travels.

Some helpful phrases to know are:

Hello – Merhaba (Mehr-hah-bah) Yes – Evet (Eh-veht) No – Hayır eh (Hahyuhr) Thanks – Teşekkürler (teh-sheh-kewr-lehr) Thanks – Sağol (Sowl) You’re welcome – Bir şey değil (beer shehy deh-yeel) Please – Lütfen (Lewt-fehn) What’s this? – Bu ne? (Boo neh) How much? – Kaç tane? (Kahch tah-neh)

It’s best to dress modestly

Even though Turkey is a secular country without one State religion, Islam is the dominant religion. Because of this, one of my Turkey travel tips is to dress in modest clothing during your trip.

This is particularly a good idea if you’re going to be visiting any religious building as you will need to cover up your arms, shoulders and head before entering. Always carry a light scarf or shawl with you that you can use to cover your head any time you visit a mosque.

Istanbul is a modern and forward-thinking city so you can get away with wearing outfits that are a little more revealing; this is also the case for big resort areas around the nation’s coastline.

When traveling on public transport or exploring more remote areas, covering up is often the best idea. Then, there’s Konya which is the most conservative city in Turkey: you really have to dress modestly there.

Try to pay everything by card

Cards are accepted everywhere in Turkey. You can use your bank card or credit card to pay just about anything – hotels, cafes, attraction tickets and more.

This means that you don’t need to wander around with wads of local cash in your pocket and it’s especially convenient if your bank has good foreign currency fees.

Nevertheless having a small bit of local cash in your wallet is always a good idea — just in case you want to leave a tip or pay for a small souvenir somewhere like a market.

Haggling in the markets in Turkey is just part of the culture and is a must if you don’t want to be ripped off. If you want to buy a specific item all you have to do is ask the seller how much it is.

Have a number in your head that you would pay for the item and then offer the seller a much lower price. The seller will come in higher than you and you offer another lower price, slightly more than you said before.

Hopefully after some back and forth with the seller, you will arrive at a number that you’re happy to pay.

Haggling can be fun and a good way to have a laugh with locals, but if you feel uncomfortable or pushed into buying something all you have to do is simply walk away and remove yourself from the situation.

Buy made-in-Turkey souvenirs

If you’re in the market for some genuine handmade crafts then Turkey is a fantastic place to buy them. There’s a long list of famous products that are made in Turkey, from Turkish delight and handmade rugs to ceramics and Turkish spices.

The only thing to look out for, however, is counterfeit designer goods. These kinds of souvenirs might seem alluring but you run the risk of getting in trouble with customs on returning to your home country.

Get a local SIM card

Getting yourself a local SIM card is really helpful for your trip and this is one of my Turkey travel tips for you.

It’s something I actually didn’t have when I traveled to Turkey and I really wish I had one so I could use Google Maps and translate.

For example, Istanbul is a really big city, and having access to online maps makes getting around so much easier. You will be able to navigate around the city, find places to eat and the opening times of tourist sites.

A local SIM card will also come in useful for using apps such as Uber to travel around the city with ease.

Local SIM cards are actually easy to come by in Turkey. You will find that even hotels in Istanbul sell them, as well as shops and kiosks at the airport when you land. They are not the cheapest, but honestly they make your life so much easier.

Get travel insurance

Whatever destination you travel to, getting travel insurance before you go is a good idea.

You should definitely get a good travel insurance before visiting Turkey. It may not be the most exciting part of planning your trip, but securing your insurance could really help you out if anything happens to you and you need medical treatment or your flight is canceled.

It doesn’t even take that long to get covered and you can complete the application online in less than 10 minutes.

Just make sure your insurance covers you for the experiences you are planning to do during your adventures. For example, if you want to take a hot air balloon ride or try out some water sports you should check in the small print that you are covered for all eventualities.

I recommend Heymondo as one of the best travel insurance companies available. You can check their insurance offerings here .

Be wary about tap water

The question of water safety in Turkey is one that seems to cause some confusion. Some travel guides say you can drink tap water, others suggest you are better off avoiding it.

The actual answer is that it depends. Not even the locals are clear on the safety of tap water, with many choosing to drink bottled water.

What is clear is that tap water is very chlorinated and is considered drinkable in most cases.

Even so, I think it is best to drink bottled water just to be safe, particularly when you’re in Istanbul.

When in more rural areas, springs will be labeled to show if the water is drinkable or not. Signs that say “içilir, içilbelir” or “içme suyu” all mean that it is drinking water; “içilmez” means that it is not drinkable.

Further Readings

For more guidance planning your trip to Turkey, make sure to read these other posts:

• A Guide To Visiting Ephesus
• The Best Things To Do In Cappadocia
• The Best Things To Do In Pamukkale
• Where To Stay In Istanbul

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Claudia Tavani

Claudia was born and raised in Italy, but she also lived in New York, Denver, and London. She's a professional travel blogger and certified travel designer who loves planning trips, sharing travel hacks, and packing lists so that you don't have to. Owner of My Adventures Across The World, solo traveler, cat mom to Minnie. Claudia has been featured by the Lonely Planet and the Huffington Post. She has visited more than 80 countries.

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Turkey travel tips — 13+ dos and don’ts & what to know before visiting turkey.

Turkey is one of the most popular destinations for tourists today. Your trip will be perfect if you avoid doing the following 13+ things while traveling to Turkey. So, what to know before visiting Turkey, what not to do in Turkey and what to know before traveling to Turkey? Let’s check out our Turkey travel tips, Turkey travel etiquette and Turkey travel advice with 14 things to know before traveling to Turkey, things to know before visiting Turkey including dos and don’ts in Turkey in general as well as dos and don’ts in Istanbul in particular! Okay, let’s get started! We’ll find these things out together!

• Istanbul travel tips — 9 things & what to know before going to Istanbul
• What to buy in Turkey 2024? — Top 26+ must-buy & best things to buy in Turkey
• When is the best time to visit Turkey? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to travel to Turkey
• What should I avoid in Turkey — 10 things not to do in Turkey & do and don’ts in Turkey
• Top beaches in Turkey — 17+ most beautiful & best beaches in Turkey

What to know before visiting Turkey: Wear shoes when entering the mosque

If you visit a mosque, remember to take off your shoes before entering the building. Also note that you shouldn’t wear shorts, as this is thought to be inappropriate. If you are lucky enough to visit a Turkish house, check the entrance for shoe storage and then put your shoes in the right place.

Dos and don’ts in Turkey: Consume food and drink in public places when traveling during Ramadan

Ramadan is a Muslim holiday that lasts about a month. During this time, people usually go on a vegetarian diet every day for 30 days. Muslims aren’t supposed to eat or drink anything between sunrise and sunset.

If you travel to Turkey during the month of Ramadan, you shouldn’t eat or drink in public or offer anything to a Muslim during the day.

Turkey travel advice: Walk in front of a praying person

According to the traditional conception of Muslims, if you precede a person who is praying, their prayers will not be counted. This becomes even more true when you visit a mosque. Therefore, be extremely cautious when walking in these places.

Turkey travel tips: Wear inappropriate costumes

When you travel to Turkey, remember to bring some discreet clothes. Both men and women should consider leaving their shorts at home. As you get away from big cities, you will likely see Muslims looking at you strangely if you’re wearing unusual attire.

What not to do in Turkey: Forget to learn a few Turkish words before traveling

Most people living in Turkey do not speak English (like many people in the United States do not speak Turkish). So if you’re going to visit this country, learn a few basic words and phrases to communicate more effectively.

What to know before traveling to Turkey: Practice body language when visiting Turkey

In Turkey, your nod will be meaningless or confusing. If you want to signal “yes” or “agree” to someone, only nod once. Otherwise, if you want to say “no” or “disagree,” lift your chin, raise your eyebrows and press your tongue slightly.

Things to know before traveling to Turkey: Fail to be concerned with your behaviors in all circumstances

One of the things not to do in Turkey is failing to pay attention to one’s behavior. Not only because it’s a cultural norm of the Turks but remember that you represent your country, so be careful in all actions. You’d better learn some Turkish such as “please” and “thank you” before traveling to Turkey!

Be offended when the Turks only talk to your companions who are male

If you are a woman visiting Turkey with your significant other or friends, you will find that Turkish men only speak to your male companion.

This is something that happens very commonly in the countryside. You shouldn’t be offended or have bad feelings for them. The reason is they’re trying to protect your virtue politely in their traditional style.

Things to know before visiting Turkey: Enter a mosque dressed in sexy outfits

The historic mosques of Turkey, such as the Blue Mosque or Yeni Cami, are not only tourist attractions but also places where devotees come to pray. To show your respect in these sacred locations, say no to wearing sexy clothes.

Indeed, you should prepare a sweater to cover your shoulders or arms. At the same time, you should avoid wearing miniskirts and shorts. You will feel comfortable when mingling yourself into the surrounding with discreet and respectful outfits.

Dos and don’ts in Istanbul: Get on a taxi without a logo

Turkish taxi drivers are pretty fond of separating tourists by taking detour routes or using a faulty meter for extra fares. To keep yourself from this kind of situation, you should choose taxis that offer a certain price.

You can distinguish between trustworthy and rogue taxis by the logos on the doors. This will show you that the cab is working under a certain brand instead of a fishy business. The advice is to download the BiTaksi app to book a reliable ride from anywhere.

What to know before visiting Turkey: Only go shopping at shopping malls

Going to shopping malls is quite a waste when traveling to Turkey. You can go to the markets to discover great things, from the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul to the Kemeraltı Market in Izmir.

You’ll find more unique handmade products, clothing, and accessories than any of the brand stores located at shopping malls.

Dos and don’ts in Turkey: Focus only on tourist areas

It would be regrettable to travel to Turkey and only visit the central tourist areas. While many people only visit Istanbul, locals usually recommend going to other unpopular places in the city.

Take a day or two to visit the main attractions, then spend your time researching and exploring the surrounding local areas. There are a lot of exciting things here, which will let you have an awesome experience of Turkey.

Show off your wealth

There are only a few areas in Turkey where you can comfortably show off your wealth. For example, wealthy neighborhoods in big cities like Istanbul or Ankara. However, it’s better to avoid flaunting your money in smaller cities or rural areas because this will easily make you a target for scams.

Though Turkish tourism has experienced a sharp decline in sales in recent years, the beautiful country situated across two continents still has new features that attract tourists globally. The historical sites, enchanting sceneries, delicious food, and cultural festivals imbued with national identity will give visitors the most beautiful memories in Turkey.

If you consider Turkey as your next vacation, schedule your trip now! This country won’t let you down. Above are a few things not to do when traveling to Turkey for your reference. Hopefully, these tips will help you have a wonderful and memorable journey.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Istanbul you can refer to

• Istanbul Welcome Card
• Hagia Sophia Introduction Tour with Audio Guide
• Istanbul Classics Tour
• Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque Small Group Tour
• Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, & Basilica Cistern Combo Tour in Istanbul
• Istanbul Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Hop-on Hop-off Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
• 4G SIM Card (MY Delivery) for Turkey from joytel2u
• Istanbul Museum Pass
• [Sale] Sea Life Aquarium Ticket in Istanbul
• Round Trip Ferry Tickets between Prince’s Islands and Istanbul
• Princes’ Island Full Day Tour from Istanbul
• Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise Tour
• Istanbul: Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Music and Dinner Cruise w/ Private Table
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise with Audio App
• Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour
• Best of Istanbul in 1 Day
• Istanbul: Topkapi Palace Guided Tour and Skip The Line
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht
• Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Istanbul : Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Istanbul travel guide and Turkey travel guide here .

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Europe ‎ > ‎ Turkey ‎ > Istanbul > Top Ten Tourist Tips For Istanbul

Top 10 Istanbul Tips | Suggested Itineraries For Istanbul

• Old Town Walking Tour
• Bazaars Walking Tour
• New Town Walking Tour
• Golden Horn Walking Tour
• Bosphorus River Cruise
• More Sights
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Visitor Tips
• Suggested Itineraries
• Transportation Tips
• Historical Overview

The Best Istanbul Tourist Tips:

1. Tourist Visa : Yes you need a tourist Visa to visit Turkey as it is not part of the European Union.  Up until 2013 you bought your Visa right when you after landing at the Airport, but to deal with long lines they moved the process online.  The Visa is $20 for American visitors and is done on the the Turkish Custom’s website HERE .  You simply apply, pay, and print it off right from home.

2. Planning & Dividing Your Time : Istanbul is such a huge sprawling city that knowing how to divide your time is very important.  It can be hard to prioritize what are the most important things to see and how to maximize your time, so we decided to do the work for you.  Whether you are only in town for 1-4 days over more than a week we’ve come up with the best plan of action to get your started.  Check out our Suggested Itineraries for Istanbul .

3. The History of Istanbul : With 1000s of years of rich history, visiting Istanbul can be one of the best experiences a traveler can have.  Better understanding this long history will go a really long way to help you more appreciate the sights that you’ll see.  Kingdoms like the Roman and Ottoman Empire’s have both had their capitals in this metropolis adding even more to the lore.  To help with your trip, check out our guide on the Historical Timeline of Istanbul .

4. Visiting A Mosque : Tourists may only enter during non-prayer time through the North West entrance.  Modest dress is required for both men and women with your shoulders and knees covered; most major Mosques will let you borrow a wrap if you are not covered.  Women must also cover their heads with a scarf which are available to borrow but you can buy your own cheaply at any market.  Even during non-prayer time people may be praying so no running or yelling.  Like any place of worship do not take photos of worshipers without permission.  Keep in mind that non-Muslims must stay behind the wooden barrier surrounding the main worship area. Before entering the Mosque everyone must remove their shoes at the raised platform by the door.  Proper etiquette states that before stepping up on the platform you take your shoe off without letting your foot touch the ground below the platform.  This act ensures that both your feet and the platform will remain clean before entering; socks typically remain on if you are wearing any.  Plastic bags for your shoes are provided to bring them with or you can safely leave them outside in the racks by the door. Visiting Hours : Open daily one hour after sunrise until one hour before sunset.  Closed to tourists starting 30 minutes prior to each of the 5 daily prayer times until the service it over. Services last around 30 minutes, but the Friday mid-day sermon may last a full hour.  Best Time To Go : Typically between 9am and Noon as it is the largest gap between services.  Here is a helpful list of current prayer times for Istanbul day by day to better help you plan your time.  Cost : Free.

5. Turkish Language Tips :

Hello is Merhaba ( pronounced Mare-ha-ba )

Good Morning is Günaydın ( gew-nahy-DUHN )

Good Day is İyi Günler ( E-yee Guen-ler )

Good Evening is İyi Akşamlar ( EE ahk-shahm-LAHR )

Goodbye is Hoşçakal ( Hosh cha kal ) is you are leaving, but if you are the person stay Goodbye is Güle güle ( guele guele ) so expect to hear it when leaving shops

Thank You  is Sağ Ol ( SOWL )

Do you speak English  is İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz

Cheers for drinking is Şerefe! ( Sher-a-fa )

Hagia Sophia  in Turkish is spelled Aya Sofya ( Eye-ah So-fee-yah )

Mosque in Turkish is spelled Camii ( Jah-mee )

6. Food & Drink Tips :   While many people know that Turkish Delight sweets and pomegranates are booth really popular, there are more food and drink tips to help you out.  Doner is a common street food and is basically the same thing as a Greek gyro.  Both Gyro and Doner mean turning in their respective languages which just means how the meat is cooked while constantly turning.  Usually when ordering you’ll ask for a Doner ( turning ) Kebab ( meaning on a skewers ) followed by the type of meat you want. Testi Kebab is a flaming clay pot stew and our favorite dish.  Rucka is the National Drink and tastes a lot like Greek’s liquorice flavored ouzo. Cheers for drinking is Şerefe! ( Sher-a-fa )

7. Getting Around Istanbul : Istanbul is very spread out with a number of main districts to visit, but a number of transportation tips will take the stress out of getting around town. Most of the main neighborhoods are easy to walk around in which is good since traffic jams can make cabs very slow at times.  Although there are no subway lines in the older parts of town getting between neighborhoods is greatly helped by a couple of main tram lines plus a couple funicular lifts.  Check out our guide on How to get around Istanbul .

8. How To Get To/From The Airport : There are a couple great options for getting from Istanbul’s main Atatürk Airport to the middle of town.  The hard part is knowing what is best for you.  Typically the shuttle buses and taxis from inside the airport are going to be really expensive.  Just outside the airport, however, there are many cheaper and respectable taxis.  The down side to the taxis is that although they may only take 30 minutes it can be 2-3 times that in heavy traffic or rush hour.  Another popular option is a combo of subway and tram which only takes 45 minutes regardless on how much traffic there is.  The downside to the metro is that it can be hard if you have a lot of bags and they are closed down from Midnight to 6am.  Check out our guide on How to get to Istanbul from the Airport .

9. Where To Stay In Istanbul : Figuring out where to stay in Istanbul can be confusing, but get easier when you understand where the top attractions are on the map. There are plenty of affordable hotels right by the Hippodrome with great views of both Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, plus they are close to Restaurant Row.  Outside of that main area there are still a number of hotels worth staying in.  Check out our Best Places To Stay In Istanbul .

Top 10 Things To Do In Istanbul:

1. Visit The Blue Mosque

2. Explore Aya Sophia

3. Get Lost In The Grand Bazaar

4. Roam Topkapi Palace & The Harem

5. Check Out Chora Church

6. Enter The Underground Cistern

7. Investigate Galata Bridge & The Spice Market

8. Stroll New Town & The Dolmabahçe Palace

9. Eat Turkish Delights And Smoke A Nargile

10. Go To A Turkish Bath House

Bonus: Do A Bosphorus River Cruise

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Disclaimer: Information on this page and in our walking tours were deemed accurate when published, however, details such as opening hours, rates, transportation, visa requirements, and safety can change without notice. Please check with any destinations directly before traveling.

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Turkey Travel Tips (from a local): 15 Things to Know About Turkey

by Drifter Planet | Jan 26, 2020 | Turkey

Turkey travel tips post has been written by our Europe content specialist – Alara Benlier, who is originally from Turkey. This post has been further expanded by the editor. 

Turkey is historical, vibrant, and insanely beautiful. This country that’s twice the size of California offers an exhaustive selection of places to visit and travel experiences to its visitors.

While in Turkey, you can find pretty much every kind of landscape (and even more) if you know where to go.

You can enjoy thermal springs with crystal clear waters , relax on the inviting beaches, see the ruins of ancient empires, float on a hot air balloon over unique formations , party on a yacht like a millionaire, enjoy delicious cuisine , and even go skiing.

Turkey’s unique location attracts millions of tourists each year. No matter the season, you can do many fun activities here. Moreover, you can experience countless cultural trips, including wandering around ancient ruins that are also listed as Unesco World Heritage Sites. 

So, whether you are a passionate photographer, a gourmet, an adventure lover, or just a professional sunbather, you can have the holiday of your dreams in Turkey. If you are interested, here is everything you need to know before visiting Turkey from a born and raised Turkish expat. Here are my top Turkey travel tips for you.

Travel Tips for Turkey

Table of contents, turkey weather and when to visit.

No, Turkey isn’t just a summer destination like many places in Europe. Depending on what you want to do, you can visit Turkey during every season.

Istanbul and the Sea of Marmara region gets very warmer in summer and it can sometimes rain too. This area gets colder than many other parts of Turkey during winter and it can snow too (but not often).

Most of the coast of Turkey has typical warm Mediterranean weather (think of Italy, Greece, etc.) with warm and dry summers and mild winters. The middle part of the country (like Central Anatolia) gets warmer summer days but chilly nights and mornings. 

During spring, summer, and winter, not only you can enjoy many breathtakingly beautiful beaches, but also you can do lounging, parasailing, paragliding, and even canoeing in the ancient lands of Turkey. And starting from Winter, here is a winter wonderland.

Over the years, Turkey has become a hot spot for ski lovers with its excellent ski resorts, splendid hotels, and amazing nature.

Visa for Turkey

Some nationalities do not need a visa to enter Turkey, that includes some European countries a few Asian countries, and also a few South American countries. They can enter visa-free for 90 days.

Many other nationalities can enter with an eVisa and some with a conditional eVisa. Passport holders in Australia, the UK, USA need to apply for an Electronic Visa (e-Visa). Indian travelers can get a conditional e-Visa if they already have an active visa from the US, UK, Ireland, or the Schengen countries.

As the name suggests, the e-Visa Application System allows travelers to apply their e-Visas online. You just have to fill out the online form and pay the visa fee, and within 3 minutes, you will receive your visa! Just don’t forget to apply for your visa between three months to 48 hours before your travel date.

What is the capital city of Turkey?

Most people get this wrong. The capital of Turkey is not Istanbul, it is Ankara.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

The answer to this question is yes, but just like anywhere in the world, you should be cautious about your surroundings. Thankfully, Turkey’s name is coming clean after several terror attacks that happened in the past, and today, it is declared safe by many governments. 

Just be careful around the crowds, and if you are too anxious, try not to visit Turkey around religious and public holidays. Keep in mind that the coasts are safe, and big cities like Istanbul are always surrounded by policemen. Unless you are visiting the cities close to the Syrian border, I don’t think you have anything to worry about.

In any case, you should make it a point to read the travel advisory before you plan your trip and once again before you visit. 

Currency in Turkey and Managing Money

The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira . Although most places would prefer cash, you can also pay with VISA and Mastercard. 

Try to carry a smaller amount of money for smaller purchases. Turkey has banknotes for 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 lira. So carrying two 50 liras instead of one 100 lira might be better. Haggling is also very common in local shops. You might get up to 50% off from bigger purchases.

Which SIM Card to get?

Due to the legal restrictions, it might be complicated to get a local SIM Card if you’re traveling here for a longer period of time. Generally, you can get a SIM card by showing your passport at one of the shops in the airport or in a store in the city. 

There are three network operators in Turkey: Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom. They have official stores everywhere around the country. 

Turkcell is known for its good connection, but it is the most expensive one. Vodafone is also fairly good and Türk Telekom is the cheapest one. Although Türk Telekom is good, if you are planning to visit locations with high altitudes, I would stick with Vodafone or Turkcell according to my budget. 

Also, all mobile devices purchased outside Turkey that use a Turkish SIM must be registered with the government after 120 days. If not, you will end up with a phone that doesn’t work.  

Scams in Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most visited cities in Turkey due to its historic beauty. And just like every other tourist city, here also has typical tourist scams.

Although the Turkish people are very helpful, it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to scams. The most known ones are taxi scams, pickpockets, and paying more because you are a tourist. 

Taxis usually take a longer road to get you to your final destination to make you pay more money. To prevent that you can use public transportation, or if you have to use a taxi, you can ask the reception of your hotel or hostel to call a cab for you. 

To avoid pickpockets, you have to be careful about your belongings. If you are around a crowd, keep your bag in front of you or somewhere you can see it. 

Last but not least, sellers might charge you more money because they think that you don’t know the actual price of their products or services. To prevent that, do your research! Thanks to the internet, you are one click away from knowing all the best and the worst shops all around the World. 

Overall Istanbul is a majestic city, but keep in mind that Turkey offers more incredible cities. So, if you have enough time, try to spend less time in Istanbul, and explore other cities in Turkey.

Getting around in Turkey

You can get around in Turkey by internal flights, renting a car, using a coach, and depending on the location – even a ferry.  

With its bunch of airlines that fit your budget, Turkey can be easily explored by plane. Due to the competition, you can book a cheap flight and fly to almost every city in Turkey.

One of the low-cost carriers in Turkey is Pegasus Airlines, that’s what the Drifter Planet team used in Turkey twice. Although it is not the most environmentally friendly option, if you have a tight schedule, you can always get to your destination very quickly via plane.

Although renting a car is always an option, I wouldn’t recommend it. If you are aiming for a heart attack, then renting a car might be the one for you. Having one of the most expensive gas in the entire World, constant traffic, and of course, so many angry drivers that ignore most of the traffic signs, you can easily rent a car in Turkey with your passport or driver’s license. Just make sure to rent your car from a reliable agency, like Europcar, or Avis, and get insurance for the car. 

Most Turkish people use the coach, especially the night coach, as a more budget-friendly option. The buses in Turkey for longer destinations are very luxurious and shockingly affordable. Every Turkish town and city has a bus station, called Otogar . From there you can buy your bus ticket, which is called bilet in Turkish. 

If you are a solo traveler, depending on your gender, you can book a seat next to your own gender to ensure safety as well. During your trip, you will be served a cake or sandwich, and a bottle of water for free. Most of the bus companies also provide wireless Internet, and a film to watch. Buses will stop in many resting places for you to use the toilet, stretch your legs, and eat in restaurants.

It isn’t easy to prebook the buses online without a Turkish card or phone number but it can be done if you really try your best. We were able to book a bus with “ MetroTurizm “, but only after translating the entire website into English. Somehow their English version of the website wasn’t allowing bus bookings at that time.

Ferries are also a great option for traveling in and around Istanbul, Izmir, and from incredible cities like Bodrum and Marmaris to the Greek islands.

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Turkey

The most beautiful place on earth where you can enjoy a hot air balloon ride is right here in Turkey . It is in a mystical fairy land called Cappadocia , which looks like it belongs on another planet. Cappadocia’s landscape looks surreal, and it looks it is out of a science fiction movie like Star Wars.

There are fairy chimneys and caves everywhere in Cappadocia. People still live in these caves and many have been transformed into spectacular hotels. Right here, you can enjoy a hot air balloon ride to experience the most magical sunrise.

Cappadocia is massive and has around 10 villages that are all unique in their own way. One can get a little confused about where to go. The most popular place in Cappadocia for a hot air balloon ride is Göreme. Be sure to read about Cappadocia on our website – Hot air balloon experience in Cappadocia , staying in a cave hotel in Göreme , and Cappadocia’s Instagram-worthy spots .

Recommended Itinerary for Turkey

It is no secret that there are lots of places to visit, lots of things to do, and lots of things to eat in Turkey!  If you want to visit this glorious country, but don’t know where to start, there is a great 10-day itinerary on this website, which covers the most attractive places you can visit in Turkey. However, if you want to spend more time in Turkey to understand the culture better and explore all around it quickly, here is a two-week itinerary of Turkey!

Day 1 and 2 – Istanbul

Istanbul is mostly famous for its bridge that brings together Asia and Europe, mosques, tulips, seagulls, and Turkish bagels. But the city also has a great history dating back to 660 before Christ, the Roman empire, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empire. If you want to check out the historical monuments on your first day, you can start exploring Istanbul from Sultanahmet Square, where you can find Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Sultanahmet Mosque, and Basilica Cistern. 

On your second day, you can shop at the Spice Bazaar aka Mısır Çarşısı, which is one of the largest bazaars in Istanbul. Here, you can buy spices, Turkish delights, jewelry, souvenirs, dried fruits, and nuts. The Grand Bazaar, on the other hand, is the oldest and largest bazaar in the world with 4,000 shops and 350,000 visitors a day! 

Day 3 and 4 – Bursa

Bursa was the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire. But here is not only known for its history, but also its silk, ski resorts, and thermal baths made here a must-visit city. Due to its location near an extinct volcano called Uludağ mountain, Bursa has thermal baths with mineral-rich waters.

If you are visiting Bursa, you should experience the traditional thermal Turkish bath, since it is one of a kind! The mineral water boils up from below to comfort you and nurture your skin! As a tradition, you should get the best rubdown (kese) to get rid of the dead skin cells and a massage just to relax your muscles.

Day 5 – Izmir and Ephesus (Efes)

Izmir is blessed with amazing beaches, gorgeous nature, and of course, ancient places like Unesco World Heritage Site listed Efes! 

While in Ephesus, you can check out many historic gates and temples, but the most impressive ones are definitely the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsus. But if you enter Ephesus from the south entrance, you will see its world-famous theatre. This theatre not only witnessed history but also hosted many amazing performances by Elton John, Ray Charles, Jethro Tull, and many more!

Day 6 and 7 – Bodrum

With its pure white buildings with Saxon blue doors, its amazing seacoast, and gorgeous bougainvillea flowers, Bodrum is definitely a must-visit city! This old fishing town is located on the coast of the astoundingly clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea and also hosts the ancient city of Halicarnassus, which is said to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World!

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus has an ancient tomb, which was built between 353 and 350 BC! Here, you can also check out the Myndos Gate, which was built under the reign of King Mausolus. This gate witnessed the greatest battles during the siege of the city by Alexander the Great.

Day 8 and 9 – Fethiye

With its breathtaking marina, amazing nightlife , and otherworldly sea, Fethiye is the only city in the world, where you’ll find sarcophaguses on the streets!  Here, you can swim in the Dead Sea/Blue Lagoon, and also do lounging, parasailing, paragliding, canoeing, and many more! The world-famous beach of Fethiye and its blue lagoon, Ölüdeniz, is known for its shades of turquoise and aquamarine, and it is officially awarded as a Blue Flag beach.  

On your second day, you can hike the ancient Lycian Way to check out the amazing views of the sea and the mountains. You also have to check out the gorgeous Butterfly Valley! This valley’s name comes from the endemic butterflies that live near the waterfalls on the canyon wall. From the top of this valley, the view of the bay is just breathtaking.

Day 10 and 11 – Antalya

When you first hear Antalya, you might think of beautiful beaches, a bright sun, and 5-star hotels. But Antalya also offers gorgeous ancient cities and sights! On your first day, you have to check out Aspendos, which is an ancient Greco-Roman city in Serik. Aspendos has huge fame with its breathtaking Roman theatre, the best-preserved theatre in Turkey. The theater has a seating capacity of 20,000 people, and it is still used for concerts. 

For your second day, you can visit the Konyaaltı, which has a pebble beach with amazing turquoise waters. Here you can also paraglide and enjoy many water sports. Or around 60 km away, you can visit the sandy Lara Beach, which is known for its curative sands for the ones with rheumatism problems!

Day 12 and 13 – Pamukkale

With its mineral-rich hot springs and its ancient Greco-Roman city, Pamukkale is a natural site, located in Denizli. Pamukkale literally means cotton castle in Turkish, which suits its amazing calcium-rich springs that shaped its snow-white limestones over the centuries perfectly. But this Unesco World Heritage site is not only popular for its natural pools but also its holy ancient city of Hierapolis!

On your second day, you have to check out this Greco-Roman city. Hierapolis was founded as a thermal spa early in the 2nd century BCE. After the archeological diggings, many significant structures like gorgeous Byzantine gates, a theatre, temples, thermal baths, and an extensive necropolis came to light.

Day 14 and 15 – Cappadocia

With its fairy chimneys, amazing nature, and fun hot air balloon activities, Cappadocia offers a great time for its visitors. Being on the Unesco World Heritage List, with its fairytale-looking landscapes with fairy chimneys, pigeon houses, orchards, and vineyards, it is surreal to fly over the beautiful valley and have the most romantic time while gazing at the sunset!

On your second day, you should visit the Ihlara Valley, which is a 16 km long valley that is home for 105 ancient churches! This unique valley’s honeycombed churches were built by Cappadocian Greeks. It is truly a magical place to wander around while listening to the peaceful river sounds.

What to Eat in Turkey?

Turkish cuisine is one of the most diverse and famous cuisines in the entire World. You may have eaten Turkish dishes before, but there are some must-taste dishes that you shouldn’t miss while visiting Turkey!

• As the main dish, you can have Iskender Kebab , Şiş (Shish) Kebab , Mantı , Etli Ekmek , or if you are vegetarian, you can have Meze or street food like Kumpir . 
• Iskender Kebab is a traditional Döner kebab that is served with yogurt a warm tomato sauce and melted butter over pieces of thinly sliced lamb meat and pide. 

• Şiş (Shish) Kebab , on the other hand, is grilled chicken, beef, or lamb on a skewer, served with rice, salad, and fries. 
• If you crave carbs, you should try Mantı aka Turkish Ravioli! Mantı is little a handmade dumplings filled with ground lamb or beef, topped with creamy yogurt and melted butter tomato paste sauce. Or Etli Ekmek, which is a long and thin piece of flatbread, topped with meat and cheese. 
• If you are a vegetarian, you will love Etli Ekme because you can choose your own toppings to “vegan-ize” it. 
• As a lighter dinner option, you can have Meze , which actually consists of a small selection of dishes commonly served with drinks or before a meal. You can either just eat Meze, or you can also order a main dish with them. Turkish people love eating Meze while drinking Rakı , which is a traditional alcoholic beverage. 
• Traditional Turkish Mezes are Cacık, which is yogurt with herbs and cucumber, hummus, and butter, and Dolma, which is rice-stuffed vine leaves, eggplant salad, Feta cheese and all served with a warm pide. Pide is a flatbread which is kind of like a pizza, but is much better. It is a typical Turkish comfort food.  

• Lastly , Kumpir is actually a giant baked potato, which is cut down the middle and served with butter, cheese, and various toppings that you choose. As a dessert, you can have World-famous Baklava, and of course Turkish delight.
• Turkish cuisine is very flavourful and best complemented with local alcoholic beverages. You can have some Turkish wines including Kavaklidere Yakut (Bogazkere – Okuzgozu), Merlot, and Vinkara. 

The national drink, Rakı, is a must if you want to have an authentic Turkish food experience. It is a spirit, distilled from grapes and made with aniseed. When Rakı is mixed with water and ice, its color changes from transparent to white, which is why it is also called lion’s milk.

Ramadan in Turkey

Ramadan is called Ramazan in Turkey. It is important to know about this because it is a month-long fasting time, that ends with Eid ul-Fitr. During this time, the locals do not eat or even drink anything from the time the sun rises to the time it sets; they only eat after the sunset.

If you’re in a smaller part of Turkey during Ramadan, you should know that some restaurants will be shut during the day, and it is considered inappropriate you eat in front of those who are fasting. Although in touristy places like Istanbul’s Sultanahmet Square, you will easily find a bite to eat. 

The dates for Ramazan for the next year are the Evening of Sun, Mar 10, 2024 – Tue, Apr 9, 2024. 

What to Wear in Turkey?

No, all Turkish people don’t dress conservatively. Somehow the country is split where one-half of the people wear conservative attire while the other half wear whatever they want and don’t mind showing some skin. Don’t stand out as a tourist, but try to blend in.

You can wear pretty much anything you want in Turkey, depending on the weather. During summer, light cotton pants, T-shirts, and flip-flops are the most common clothes to wear. Depending on the location, you can also wear shorts.

During Spring and Fall, you should bring a warm jacket/windbreaker because the weather is rainy, and it is chilly at night. And during winter, you better pack your sweaters because it snows almost everywhere in Turkey. For the beach, you can basically wear anything you want. Most Turkish women love sunbathing in their bikinis. 

If you are planning to visit mosques and churches, you should not wear any shorts or sleeveless tops. Women should also cover their hair. And don’t forget to bring socks since most of the mosques have carpet floors, and walking with your shoes on a carpet (or inside the house) is not acceptable for Turkish people. Overall, modesty is very appreciated in Turkey. If you want to avoid some looks while walking in the city, try to dress up on the conservative side.

About Turkish Hamams

Turkey might be known for its amazing beaches, and historical places, but this country is also blessed with more than 1,000 thermal springs. These mineral-rich springs have also healing properties, which is the reason why they attract many tourists throughout the year. 

You will find lots of Traditional Turkish Bath places which are called Hamam anywhere you visit in Turkey. If you want to get rid of all the dead skin cells from your body, you can visit the Hamam of your choice. But there are a couple of things to know! 

For example, every Hamam has two sections, one for women and one for men. This means that at most of the Hamams, you can’t get scrubbed down with your significant other. 

Keep in mind that, Hamams are HOT. If you have any lung or heart problems, ask your doctors for permission beforehand.

If you are visiting a Hamam, don’t forget to bring your bathing suit and some clean sandals. 

When you enter the Hamam, you will see an amazing interior and five to six taps of water with beautiful sinks underneath. In the middle, there will be a big stone which is called göbektaşı. 

If you want to be rubbed down by a professional, he or she (depending on your gender) will come and rub you there. Before the rubbing, you need to be inside the Hamam for at least 15 minutes. Afterward, they will first soak your body with warm water, otherwise, the dirt won’t come off. 

After washing up, you will receive a massage, and later you will get rubbed with an oriental washcloth, which is called kese. Finally, you will receive another soapy wash, followed by a rinsing session with cold water. 

After the whole experience, don’t forget to tip your attendant. PS. You need to wash your private parts yourself. Most of the Hamams, people inside are butt naked, but it doesn’t mean that you also have to be. Also, bring your own soap and shampoo if you are allergic, and don’t forget to remove your makeup because it will get ruined.

Etiquette for Visiting Mosques

One of the most beautiful experiences in Turkey is listening to the unmissable call of prayer 5 times a day from a nearby mosque. There’s something calming and soothing about this sound. Of course, you should try to expand this experience by visiting a mosque. Please don’t be stupid enough to mimic this sound of prayer, even if you’re in a hostel and are sitting with backpackers. 

Dress conservatively if you’re visiting a mosque. Cover your legs, arms, and shoulders – this is for both men and women. In most of the mosques, you will be able to pick up a scarf to cover your head on your way in. Photograph the architecture by all means, but look out for “photography allowed” signs before you do. Do not take the liberty of photographing the locals in prayer without their permission.

Just like many places of worship all over the world, you will need to remove your shoes at the entry point so wear something that can be easily removed. 

Quick Tips for Solo Women Travelers

Traveling to any new country as a solo woman traveler can be overwhelming but at the same time, liberating. Turkey is an amazing country and is an excellent destination for a solo woman traveler.

We have mentioned this before in this article, but it is time to reiterate – try to blend in. Dress like locals and don’t let your outfit or actions scream “tourist”. Be careful of your surroundings at all times and listen to your gut. If a place or a situation doesn’t feel safe for any reason, then get out. Make friends with other women travelers that you meet, share stories, and stay connected. 

Did follow our travel tips for Turkey?

Tag  @drifterplanet  on Instagram and hashtag it  #drifterplanet . We will be happy to share your journey with our audience.

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Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

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Last Updated on January 11, 2024 by Drifter Planet

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Traditional on 1st May; you would be hard pressed not to find demonstrations today anywhere in the world, except the obvious. This is International Workers' Day and a public holiday for that reason throughout the world. And, as I said, the proletariat will always demonstrate on this day against the filthy bourgeois capitalist pigs.

Has nothing to do with women - I see a lot of women in the demonstrations - or Israel.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Observance_of_International_Workers%27_Day_RGBY.svg

To add to GG's post if this bothers you so much you are probably better off staying in Houston.

The protests will continue in both major, and smaller, cities worldwide as long as the situations that create such inequality, exist.

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Turkey’s melting pot: a foodie break in Istanbul

The best way to understand the city is through its food, and the best guide is a Michelin-star chef who knows where to find succulent doners, crisp calamari and rich taramasalata

S aturday morning, 10am, and I’m sitting at a café table on a cobbled street in the Beşiktaş neighbourhood of Istanbul, sipping a glass of çay (Turkish tea) and waiting for breakfast. By the café entrance, a plump, grey-haired man in a crisp white apron is sharpening a knife, before slicing through what is generally acknowledged to be the largest doner kebab in Turkey. The kebab weighs 100kg, a meaty monster slowly cooking from the outside in. Our guide, Sinan, tells us that Black Sea (Karadeniz) doners from this area are always the best – all of it will be gone by mid-afternoon.

Istanbul is a city that runs on its stomach. It may be steeped in history, but the best way to understand this multi-layered melting pot of east and west, Ottoman and Byzantine, is undoubtedly through its food. I’m lucky enough to be spending a couple of days with Cenk Debensason, recently awarded a Michelin star for his restaurant, Arkestra . The chance to discover the city through his eyes – and taste buds – promises a different version of Istanbul.

After breakfast, instead of following the well-trodden tourist trail to the historic district of Sultanahmet, we head north to Bebek, a leafy suburb where the streets are dotted with boutiques and small-batch coffee shops. I feel rather like I’m in the Turkish equivalent of Hampstead. Like London, Istanbul shares a similar sense of being a collection of villages, stitched together over the centuries, and getting away from the centre offers the chance to experience it more like a local than a visitor. We dip into Midnight , where the artfully arranged shelves and racks are filled with jewellery, ceramics and clothes by the city’s hottest designers, and head on to the Petra Roasting Company , where sofas are shared with snoozing cats and the nuttily rich Ethiopian coffee fires us up.

From Bebek, we go further north to Tarabya, a waterfront neighbourhood that has attracted tourists since it began life as a health resort in the 18th century. As we drive alongside the Bosphorus, it reminds me of the winding roads that flank Lake Como: restaurants and hotels on one side, the water on the other – and on the opposite side, opulent mansions built decades, even centuries before, for the city’s wealthy elite.

We’ve come for lunch at Kiyi , an Istanbul institution that has been serving the same fish-rich menu since it opened in the 1960s. The meal is exquisite: plump mussels stuffed with mint, crisp calamari, rose-tinted octopus and taramasalata thick with roe. The vast turbot that appears as our shared main course, buttery soft, slipping off the bone like silk, ruins me for all other fish for ever.

After lunch, we drive back to Beyoglu to explore the cobbled streets of the Çukurcuma district, where the elegant, European-style mansions house antique shops selling everything from ancient statuary to art deco lamps and retro 1960s furniture that could have come straight from the set of Austin Powers. One of the most famous is A La Turca , owned by the ebullient Erkal Aksoy, who shows us around his extraordinary emporium before settling us in on slouchy leather sofas with tea, biscuits and glasses of his homemade cherry brandy.

The following day we set out on the ferry to Kadiköy, on the Asian side – one of the city’s foodiest neighbourhoods. Next to me, a man produces a bread roll from his pocket and tears off chunks, throwing them up to the gaggle of gulls flying alongside the boat. To my surprise, instead of swooping down to gobble the crumbs from the water, they dive and dart to catch the bread in mid-air – an impressive display of aeronautics that shows the gulls are as obsessed with food as everyone else in this city.

In Kadiköy, we dip into pickle shops, with their glass jars stacked from floor to ceiling, and cubby-hole stalls with great gold samovars of olive oil and soft mounds of spices – scarlet chilli, golden saffron, the brittle woody flowers of star anise. It’s warm enough to sit outside for lunch at Çiya Sofras , which specialises in traditional Anatolian dishes. The table groans with unctuous aubergine and yoghurt dips, crispy lahmacun (flatbread with spicy meat) and succulent kebabs.

The ferry ride back is a blissful hit of sunshine before we walk through the city’s Dickensian meatpacking district to one of its newest treasures – the Zeyrek Çinili Hamam – a spectacularly beautiful Turkish bath, dating back to the 16th century. Opening its doors this spring after a 13-year restoration project, it offers bathing spaces that are pristine white and freckled with stars cut into the domed ceiling, and there’s a fascinating museum charting the cultural importance and history of hamams in both Ottoman and modern-day Turkish life.

On our final night, we take a taxi through the city’s labyrinthine roads to Arkestra , Debensason’s restaurant, tucked away in the quiet Etiler neighbourhood in Beşiktaş. Stepping through the door feels like walking into the coolest kind of house party. Upstairs, cocktails are flowing in the Listening Room bar, while the main dining room feels like a buzzy, upmarket bistro. The food is modern and creative, a confident mix of classical French technique and vibrant Asian flavours. Tuna sashimi comes with sushi rice ice-cream and a ginger ponzu vinaigrette, panko fried beef with sweetly sour tonkatsu sauce. Everything looks beautiful, tastes delicious and leaves you wanting just a little bit more – the perfect metaphor for Istanbul itself.

Soho House Istanbul has double rooms from £256 room-only ( sohohouse.com )

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The best places to see in Turkey

We tell you what there is to see in Turkey and the 5 places you should not miss if you travel to this country and rent a car.

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Turkey is one of those destinations where you can stay as long as you like, because there is always something to see. However, we know that stays tend to be a little shorter than we might like. Therefore, in this article we summarize what to see in Turkey if you are going to spend a few days or weeks of vacation there and rent a car to visit the best spots in the country. Take note!

What to see in Turkey: 5 cities not to be missed

It is no secret that Turkey is rather expansive, so to visit different cities and travel great distances it is best to rent a car. Due to its large size, when visiting Turkey, the first thing to do is select the best destinations to visit, since it takes a long time to explore the whole country. To help you, here are our top 5 things to see in Turkey.

Though Istanbul may not be the Turkish capital, it is the most touristic city with the most international connections. For this reason, it is the most common point of departure and arrival for any traveler. In fact, our recommendation is to rent a car in Istanbul when you arrive. By doing this, you can travel in a circle and, on your return, leave the car at the same point where you picked it up.

The truth is you could spend your entire vacation in Istanbul alone. Known as the city of mosques, there are some that simply cannot be missed, such as the Hagia Sophia Mosque or the Blue Mosque. Visiting Topkapi Palace, going up to the viewpoint of the Galata Tower or walking the streets of the historic center of the city are other activities that will allow you to get to know Istanbul from the inside.

Another must-see destination if you visit Turkey is the Cappadocia region, known for its rock formations that are commonly referred to as "fairy chimneys". A place of great natural beauty that is usually contemplated from a hot air balloon, although walking through it is also equally impressive.

In fact, the Göreme open-air museum allows you to visit different churches and chapels that have been excavated in the rocks. In addition, you can walk through ancient subterranean cities and watch the sunrise or sunset from what is known as Love Valley.

The third recommendation on our list of things to see in Turkey is Pamukkale , also famous for being the country’s "cotton castle". This site is characterized by its natural pools, formed by the remains of calcium that the water leaves behind when flowing over the stones. The calcium acquires a whitish hue as it solidifies, forming these natural pools of thermal water that you don't see every day.

Among the most outstanding, without a doubt, is Cleopatra's Pool. This is also the site of the Hierapolis, one of the oldest and best preserved theaters in the world.

If you like archaeology, visiting Ephesus is a must on this trip. The ruins of this ancient city on the shores of the Aegean Sea give us a very good idea of what life was like in this area in Roman times. The remains of the Library of Celsus, the Great Theater, the temple or the Trajan fountain are perfectly preserved.

Mount Nemrut

We round out our top 5 recommendations on what to see in Turkey with Mount Nemrut , one of the most impressive places in the country. An ancient king of the region, Antiochus I, decided to place on top of Mount Nemrut a kind of personal shrine.

To achieve this, he had several statues carved, at an altitude of over 2,100 meters, depicting himself and other gods. Today, some of these heads can still be seen, though many have been toppled by seismic movements. Of course, seeing them at sunset is an impressive sight.

These are just 5 recommendations, but the truth is that Turkey is full of places worth exploring. The best way to tour the country, due to its large size, is to rent a car and get lost among the different Turkish cultures and customs.

And with most flights arriving and departing from Istanbul, why not rent a car there? At OK Mobility we provide you with the vehicle that best suits your needs so that all you have to worry about is enjoying everything Turkey has to offer.