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Part 1: Must-Visit Places in Istanbul

Istanbul’s treasures are split between the European and Asian sides, with most historical sites in the Sultanahmet (Old City) and Fatih districts.

In the Historic Peninsula (Sultanahmet):

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya): A breathtaking architectural marvel that has been a church, a mosque, and now a museum/mosque again.
Topkapi Palace: The vast palace of the Ottoman Sultans. Don’t miss the Harem and the Treasury.
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque): Famous for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and its six minarets.
Basilica Cistern: An underground, atmospheric Byzantine water reservoir with Medusa head columns.
Grand Bazaar: One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Get lost in its 61 streets.
Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar): A fragrant market filled with spices, Turkish delight, and dried fruits.
Süleymaniye Mosque: An Ottoman imperial mosque on a hill, offering magnificent views over the Golden Horn.

Around Beyoğlu (Modern Center):

Istiklal Avenue: A bustling pedestrian street full of shops, cafes, and historic passages.
Galata Tower: Climb for a 360-degree panoramic view of the city.
Taksim Square: The modern heart of the city.
Dolmabahçe Palace: A stunning, opulent 19th-century palace on the Bosphorus, showcasing European influence.

Districts & Vibes:

Karaköy & Galata: Trendy area with cool cafes, street art, and galleries near the port.
Kadıköy: A vibrant, local district on the Asian side with a fantastic food market and nightlife.
Ortaköy: A charming waterside area with a beautiful mosque, perfect for a photo and a famous potato kumpir (stuffed baked potato).
Balat & Fener: Colorful houses, historic streets, and a bohemian atmosphere.

Bosphorus Experience:

Bosphorus Cruise: A must-do. Take a public ferry for a cheap and authentic cruise between two continents.

Part 2: Must-Eat in Istanbul

Breakfast (Kahvaltı): A feast with cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, kaymak (clotted cream), and menemen (scrambled eggs with veggies).
Kebabs: Try İskender Kebab (with yogurt and tomato sauce), Adana Kebab (spicy minced meat), or Şiş Tavuk (chicken shish).
Meze: A selection of small appetizer dishes like hummus, haydari (thick yogurt dip), and dolma (stuffed vine leaves).
Fish & Rakı: A “Turkish” experience. Enjoy fresh fish (like Sea Bass or Sea Bream) at a restaurant by the water, accompanied by Rakı (an anise-flavored spirit).
Street Food:
- Simit: A circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds.
- Balık Ekmek: Grilled fish in a sandwich, best eaten in Eminönü by the Galata Bridge.
- Kumpir: A giant baked potato stuffed with endless toppings, famous in Ortaköy.
- Mısır: Boiled or grilled corn on the cob.
- Kestane: Roasted chestnuts.
Desserts & Drinks:
- Baklava: Layers of filo pastry with nuts and syrup.
- Turkish Delight (Lokum): A must-try, especially from shops like Hafız Mustafa.
- Künefe: A warm, cheesy dessert soaked in syrup.
- Turkish Coffee: Thick and strong, served with a glass of water.
- Apple Tea (Çay): The national drink, served in tulip-shaped glasses.

Part 3: Public Transport Guide & How to Use It

The Istanbulkart: Your Key to the City

What it is: A rechargeable plastic card used on all public transport (metro, tram, bus, ferry, funicular).
Why you need it: It’s significantly cheaper than single-journey tickets and allows free transfers between lines within a limited time.
Where to buy: From yellow vending machines and kiosks (D&R, Büfe) at major metro, tram, and ferry stations. You’ll need to pay a small one-time deposit for the card.
How to use: Tap it on the card readers at the entrance to stations, on buses, and at ferry turnstiles.

Main Modes of Transport:

Tram (T1 Line): The most useful for tourists. Runs from Kabataş through Karaköy, Sultanahmet (get off at Sultanahmet or Gülhane stop), Grand Bazaar, and out to the western districts.
Metro (M2 Line): Connects the historic side (Yenikapı) to the modern side (Taksim, Şişli, Levent, Hacıosman) via a bridge.
Funiculars (F1 & F2):
- F1 (Karaköy - Beyoğlu): Connects the Karaköy ferry port to the start of Istiklal Avenue.
- F2 (Taksim - Kabataş): Connects Taksim Square to the Kabataş ferry port and tram stop.
Ferries (Şehir Hatları): The best way to travel. Connects the European side (Eminönü, Karaköy, Kabataş, Beşiktaş) to the Asian side (Üsküdar, Kadıköy). Also runs Bosphorus tours.
Buses: Useful for reaching areas not covered by rail, but can be slow in traffic.

Part 4: Airport Transport Guide

From Istanbul Airport (IST) - European Side:

Best & Fastest: Havaist Bus: Comfortable airport shuttles. HVIST-16 goes to Taksim and HVIST-12 goes to Beyazıt (near Sultanahmet). Pay with Istanbulkart.
Metro (M11 Line): Now connects directly to Kağıthane station, where you can transfer to the M7 metro to reach other parts of the city. Excellent if it goes near your hotel.
Taxi: Fixed price to the city center (e.g., Sultanahmet/Taksim). Expensive but convenient for groups or late arrivals.

From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) - Asian Side:

Best: Havabus Shuttle: Goes to Taksim and Kadıköy.
Metro (M4 Line) + Ferry: Take the M4 metro from the airport to Kadıköy, then a scenic ferry to the European side (Eminönü or Karaköy).
Taxi: Again, convenient but pricey.

Part 5: Transportation Tips & Tricks

Download the Apps: Moovit or Google Maps are excellent for real-time routes and schedules.
Validate Your Transfer: The Istanbulkart offers discounted transfers if you tap again within a ~2-hour window.
Avoid Rush Hour: Buses and metros are extremely crowded between 7:30-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:30 PM.
Ferry is Your Friend: It’s often the most scenic, relaxing, and efficient way to beat traffic.
Taxis: Use official yellow taxis. Always insist on the meter (taksimetre) being turned on. Use BiTaksi app (like Uber for official taxis) to order a cab and know the fare in advance.
Walkable Centers: Sultanahmet and the area around Istiklal Avenue are very walkable.

Part 6: Sample Itineraries

3-Night Itinerary (The Classic Highlights)

Day 1 (Historic Core): Hagia Sophia > Blue Mosque > Basilica Cistern > Hippodrome. Evening: Grand Bazaar (closes late).
Day 2 (Palaces & Bazaars): Topkapi Palace & Harem (arrive early) > Spice Bazaar > Galata Bridge for a Balık Ekmek. Afternoon: Walk up to Galata Tower. Evening: Istiklal Avenue and Taksim.
Day 3 (Bosphorus & Farewell): Morning Bosphorus Cruise (public ferry from Eminönü). Afternoon: Explore Ortaköy or Karaköy. Last-minute shopping.

5-Night Itinerary (Deeper Dive)

Day 1-2: Same as the 3-night itinerary.
Day 3 (Asian Side & Cruise): Morning ferry to Kadıköy for market exploration and lunch. Afternoon: Long Bosphorus Cruise.
Day 4 (Ottoman Splendor): Süleymaniye Mosque > Suleymaniye Complex > Explore the colorful streets of Balat & Fener.
Day 5 (Opulence & Relaxation): Dolmabahçe Palace (book ahead). Relaxing afternoon at a traditional Turkish Bath (Hamam).

10-Night Itinerary (The Immersive Experience)

Days 1-5: Follow the 5-night itinerary at a more relaxed pace.
Day 6 (Princes’ Islands): Day trip to Büyükada (no cars, rent a bicycle or take a horse-drawn carriage).
Day 7 (Local Districts): Explore the upscale neighborhood of Nişantaşı and the trendy cafes of Beşiktaş.
Day 8 (Art & Culture): Istanbul Modern Art Museum, Istanbul Archaeological Museums, and a stroll through the upscale Bebek district.
Day 9 (Food Tour): Dedicate a day to a food tour or a Turkish cooking class.
Day 10 (Your Choice): Revisit a favorite spot, shop for souvenirs, or take a second, more specialized Bosphorus cruise.

Part 7: Tailored Trip Advice

For the Budget Traveler

Stay: In hostels or budget hotels in areas like Sirkeci, Beyazıt, or Aksaray (close to the tram).
Eat: Street food is your best friend! Balık Ekmek, simit, and kumpir are cheap and delicious. Have a full Turkish breakfast for lunch.
Transport: Walk and use the Istanbulkart. Public ferries are the cheapest Bosphorus tours.
Sights: Many mosques are free to enter. Buy a Museum Pass Istanbul if you plan to see many paid attractions—it can save you money and time.

For a Honeymoon

Stay: Boutique hotels in Sultanahmet with a view of the sea, or a luxurious hotel in Bebek or on the Bosphorus.
Dine: Splurge on a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the Hagia Sophia or on a Bosphorus cruise with dinner.
Experiences: A private Bosphorus yacht tour at sunset. A couples’ treatment at a historic Hamam (like Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam).
Stay: The charming, waterfront neighborhood of Ortaköy is perfect for a romantic stroll.

For a Family Trip with Small Kids

Stay: An apartment or a family-friendly hotel in Beyoğlu or Şişli, which are more stroller-friendly than the cobbled streets of Sultanahmet.
Pace: Plan only one or two major activities per day. Kids will love the Basilica Cistern (like a dungeon), the ferry rides, and the Grand Bazaar’s energy.
Fun Breaks:
- Miniatürk: A park with miniature models of Turkey’s famous structures.
- Aquariums: Istanbul has several large aquariums.
- Park Göztepe: A large park on the Asian side with playgrounds.
- Princes’ Islands: A car-free day trip is a huge hit with families.
Food: Kids usually love Turkish meatballs (köfte), pide (Turkish pizza), and desserts like baklava and dondurma (stretchy ice cream).

1. Best & Worst Time to Visit (Weather & Crowds)

Best Time (Shoulder Seasons): April-May & September-October
- Weather: Pleasant, mild temperatures perfect for sightseeing. Sunny days with occasional spring or autumn showers.
- Crowds: Manageable, though still busy.
- Why: Ideal for walking and outdoor activities. The city is green in spring and golden in autumn.
Good Time (Summer): June-August
- Weather: Hot and humid, with plenty of sun. Temperatures can reach the mid-30s°C (high 80s°F).
- Crowds: Peak tourist season. Very crowded at major sites, long queues.
- Why: Lively atmosphere, long days, and clear skies for Bosphorus cruises. Book everything in advance.
Worst Time to Avoid (Low Season): November-February
- Weather: Cold, rainy, and often gloomy. January and February are the coldest, with a chance of snow.
- Crowds: Thin crowds and lower prices for flights/hotels.
- Why to Avoid: The weather can significantly hinder sightseeing. Short days and rain make exploring less enjoyable. However, if you don’t mind the cold and want to avoid crowds, it can be a budget-friendly option.

2. Safety Level in Istanbul

Overall Safety: Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists, with a heavy police and security presence in tourist areas.
Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are the primary concerns, especially in crowded areas like the Tram, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and Istiklal Avenue. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
Political Stability: While generally stable, avoid any political demonstrations or large public gatherings, as they can rarely turn confrontational.
Scams: See a dedicated section below for common tourist scams.

3. Internet & SIM Cards for Tourists

Public WiFi: Available in many hotels, cafes, and shopping malls, but it’s often slow and unreliable. For security, avoid using public WiFi for sensitive transactions.
Tourist SIM Cards: The best option for reliable internet.
- Where to Buy: At the airports (IST & SAW) or official stores of telecom providers (Turkcell, Vodafone, Türk Telekom) in the city.
- Providers: Turkcell is known for the best coverage. They offer specific tourist packages with data, minutes, and SMS.
- What You Need: Your passport is required for registration (a legal requirement in Turkey).
- eSIM: If your phone is compatible, purchasing an eSIM online before you travel is the most convenient option (e.g., from providers like Airalo).

4. Currency & Exchange

Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY: ₺)
Exchange Rate: Highly volatile. Check a reliable financial website or app (like XE.com) for the current rate.
How to Pay:
- Credit/Debit Cards: Widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Contactless payment is very common.
- Cash: Essential for markets, street food, small shops, and taxis.
Where to Exchange:
- Avoid: Exchanging at airports or hotels, as they offer poor rates.
- Best: Use official exchange offices (marked as Döviz), which are plentiful in tourist areas like Sultanahmet and Taksim. They offer competitive rates and no commission. You can also withdraw local currency from ATMs (check with your bank about fees).

5. Language

Official Language: Turkish.
English: Spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by many younger people in city centers. However, learning a few basic Turkish phrases will be greatly appreciated:
- Merhaba (mehr-hah-bah) - Hello
- Teşekkür ederim (tesh-ek-kur eh-deh-rim) - Thank you
- Lütfen (luet-fen) - Please
- Evet / Hayır (eh-vet / hah-yuhr) - Yes / No
- Ne kadar? (neh kah-dahr) - How much?

6. Ways to Save Money

Istanbulkart: This is the #1 money-saver for transport. It offers discounted fares and free transfers.
Museum Pass Istanbul: If you plan to visit many paid museums (like Topkapi Palace Harem, Hagia Irene, Istanbul Archaeology Museums), this pass can save you money and, more importantly, time by allowing you to skip ticket lines.
Eat Like a Local: Have breakfast and lunch from street food stalls, bakeries, and local lokantas (casual eateries). Avoid restaurants with touts right next to major attractions.
Drink Water Tap water is generally safe to drink in Istanbul. Carry a reusable bottle and refill it instead of buying plastic bottles.
Free Attractions: Many of the city’s best experiences are free or cheap: wandering the mosques (except Hagia Sophia’s upper gallery), exploring the Grand Bazaar (just browsing is free), walking around neighborhoods like Balat and Kadıköy, and taking public ferries.

7. Seasonal & Cultural Events

April (around the 23rd): National Sovereignty and Children’s Day. A unique celebration where children take over roles in the government.
May (late) - June (early): Istanbul Music & Jazz Festival. A world-class festival with performances in historic venues.
June (early): Istanbul Tulip Festival. The city’s parks (especially Emirgan Park) are filled with millions of tulips.
June/July (dates vary): Istanbul International Film Festival.
Ramadan (Islamic Holy Month) & Eid al-Fitr (Şeker Bayramı): Dates change yearly (based on the lunar calendar). A fascinating time to visit. Days are quiet, but nights are festive with special meals and events. The historic Sultanahmet Square often has a carnival-like atmosphere at night.
October (late): Republic Day (October 29th). Celebrations and parades across the city.
November: Istanbul Marathon. The only marathon in the world that crosses between two continents (Asia and Europe).

8. Power Plugs & Voltage

Plug Type: Type F (also known as “Schuko”). It has two round pins.
Voltage: 220V, 50Hz.
What You Need: Travelers from the US, UK, and many other countries will need a power plug adapter. A voltage converter is generally not needed for modern electronics like phones and laptops (check the label on your device for “Input: 100-240V”).

9. Emergency Numbers

General Emergency: 112 (Ambulance, from any phone)
Police: 155
Fire: 110
Tourism Police: In Sultanahmet, specifically for helping tourists. They speak English. Look for their office near the Hippodrome.
Hospitals: For serious issues, seek private hospitals with international patient departments, such as:
- American Hospital (Amerikan Hastanesi) in Şişli
- Johns Hopkins Medicine in Ataşehir
- German Hospital (Alman Hastanesi) in Taksim
- Memorial Hospitals (multiple locations)

10. Common Tourist Scams to Avoid

The “Friendly Local” / Bar Scam:
- How it works: A friendly local approaches you, strikes up a conversation, and invites you for a drink at a “great” bar they know. You end up with an exorbitant bill and are forced to pay.
- Avoidance: Politely but firmly decline any unsolicited invitations to a bar or club.
Shoe Shine Scam:
- How it works: A shoe shiner “accidentally” drops his brush in front of you. When you pick it up, he insists on giving you a “free” shine as a thank you, then demands a high payment.
- Avoidance: If you see someone drop a brush, simply ignore it and keep walking.
Overpriced Taxi Rides:
- How it works: The driver claims the meter is “broken” and quotes a fixed, inflated price. Or, they take a long, circuitous route.
- Avoidance: Always insist on the meter (taksimetre) being turned on. Use the BiTaksi app to hail official taxis and see the estimated fare.
Restaurant Menu / Bill Scam:
- How it works: You are shown a menu with one price, but when the bill comes, the prices are much higher. Or, you are charged for items you didn’t order.
- Avoidance: Check prices online (Google/TripAdvisor) beforehand. Confirm the price of specials verbally. Check the bill carefully before paying.
Fake Official Guides:
- How it works: Touts outside major attractions offer guided tours at low prices. They are unlicensed and may provide poor information or pressure you into shopping at commission-based stores.
- Avoidance: Only hire licensed guides through your hotel or reputable tour companies. Licensed guides must carry an official ID badge.

Istanbul Metro

Metro
Time table

Istanbul Bus & Metrobus

IETT

Marmaray & Gebze-Halkali Train System

Marmaray

Ferries (Sehir Hatlari) & Sea-Bus

Istanbul Public Ferry Lines Routes, Timetables and Prices
Sea Bus

Istanbul Airport IST

Departing Flights
Airport Map
Airport Transportation
Shopping - Istanbul Airport
FOOD - BEVERAGE
Transit Passenger Guide
Promotion

Istanbul Travel Guide

Free Tour If you are are flying to Istanbul internationally on Turkish Airlines and have a 6 to 24 hour layover, you are entitled to a free tour of Istanbul. If you are on an international flight that connects through İstanbul with a layover between six and 24 hours, the Touristanbul service is provided free of charge. After landing at İstanbul Airport, you will be picked up by a vehicle and driven back to the airport at the end of the tour.
Istanbul’s Food and Beverage Scene
Mosques to Visit in Istanbul
Istanbul Travel Guide - Places to visit in Istanbul
Things to do in Istanbul
Istanbul’s Museums
Istanbul’s Street Foods