Welcome to the legendary city of Istanbul, where continents and civilizations meet! This comprehensive Istanbul Guide for Foreign Tourists has been prepared for you to have the most enjoyable and seamless trip in this fascinating metropolis. From getting lost in its historical streets to finding peace in the blue of the Bosphorus, from tasting its delicious food to discovering modern art galleries, Istanbul promises unforgettable experiences for every visitor. This guide, filled with practical information, cultural tips, and important advice to help you find your way in this vast and dynamic city, will be the best friend of your Istanbul adventure. As Joy Tekne Organizasyon, we desire our city's guests to experience this unique geography in the best way possible and aim to shed light on your journey with this guide.
Pre-Travel Preparations: Visa, Currency, and Communication
There are a few important preparations you should make before coming to Istanbul. First, you should check your country's visa agreements with Turkey. You can learn the current visa requirements from the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the e-Visa application portal (evisa.gov.tr). While citizens of many countries can travel visa-free, some may need an online e-Visa or a visa application from a consulate. It is advisable to complete this process at least a few weeks before your trip.
Turkey's official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). When you arrive in Istanbul, you can exchange money at airports, exchange offices in the city center, or banks. Generally, exchange offices in the city center offer better rates. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, large restaurants, and stores. However, it is always a good idea to have some cash with you for local markets, small shops, and taxis. There are numerous ATMs throughout the city, and you can easily withdraw money with international cards.
For communication, you might consider buying a local SIM card when you arrive in Turkey. Operators like Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom have sales points at the airports and in the city center. You can get internet and talk time at affordable prices with packages specially prepared for tourists. Additionally, most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi service.
Transport from the Airport to the City Center and Inner-City Transport
Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Anatolian side. There are various options for transportation from both airports to the city center.
HAVAİST and Havabus: These bus services provide regular and comfortable transportation from the airports to central points of the city like Taksim, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş. It is one of the most practical and economical options.
Municipal Buses (İETT): Although a more economical option, it can be slower and offers less space for luggage.
Taxi: It is one of the most comfortable options, but it can be costly depending on traffic. For a reliable experience, be sure to use official taxi stands and make sure the meter is turned on.
Metro: You can get to the city center quickly from Istanbul Airport via the M11 metro line. From Sabiha Gökçen Airport, you can reach Kadıköy with the M4 metro line and transfer to other transportation vehicles from there.
Within the city, Istanbul has an advanced public transportation network. You can reach almost any part of the city by Metro, tram (the T1 line is very useful for exploring the Historical Peninsula), bus, metrobus, and Marmaray (the train line connecting the European and Asian sides under the sea). A single card is sufficient to use all these vehicles: the İstanbulkart. You can easily buy this card and load money onto it from the machines (biletmatik) at metro stations or stops. And of course, the most enjoyable way to cross between the two continents is by ferry. You can travel while enjoying the Bosphorus by taking ferries from piers like Eminönü, Karaköy, Beşiktaş, and Kadıköy. For a more private and luxurious sea journey, you can rent a boat with Joy Tekne Organizasyon and explore Istanbul from the sea on your own schedule.
Accommodation: Where to Stay?
Istanbul offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every budget and taste.
Sultanahmet and Sirkeci: Ideal for those who want to be within walking distance of the main historical sites like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Here you can find many options from boutique hotels to luxury hotels.
Beyoğlu, Galata, and Karaköy: This is a perfect area for those who want to experience the vibrant and dynamic face of the city and be close to art galleries, stylish cafes, restaurants, and nightlife. Istiklal Avenue is the heart of this region.
Kadıköy: A great option for those who want to experience the bohemian and lively atmosphere of the Anatolian side, mingle with the locals, and taste delicious food. Transportation to the European side by ferry is very easy.
Beşiktaş and Nişantaşı: These are suitable areas for those who want to be close to luxury stores, modern cafes, and hotels with Bosphorus views.
Eating & Drinking: The Flavors of Turkish Cuisine
Istanbul is a gastronomy paradise. Here are some flavors you must try during your trip:
Turkish Breakfast: Start your day with a rich spread breakfast consisting of cheese, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, cream, jam, eggs, and fresh bread.
Döner and Kebab: Taste the most delicious versions of the world-famous Turkish kebabs.
Balık Ekmek: Try the duo of fresh grilled fish and bread sold on boats, especially on the Eminönü and Karaköy shores.
Mezes: Enjoy rakı and fish with dozens of types of cold appetizers, from olive oil dishes to spicy pastes.
Turkish Desserts: Delight your palate with desserts like baklava, künefe, sütlaç, and Turkish delight (lokum).
Street Food: Don't miss out on flavors like simit, roasted chestnuts (kestane kebap), corn, wet burgers (ıslak hamburger), and stuffed mussels (midye dolma).
As for drinks, you must try Turkish coffee, tea, and ayran.
Cultural Tips and Etiquette
Greetings: Turks are warm and hospitable. Learning basic phrases like "Merhaba" (Hello), "Günaydın" (Good Morning), "Teşekkür ederim" (Thank you), and "Güle güle" (Goodbye) is well-received.
Visiting Mosques: You must take off your shoes when entering mosques. Women are expected to wear modest clothing that covers their head, shoulders, and knees. Many large mosques have scarves you can borrow at the entrance. Try to time your visits outside of prayer times.
Bargaining: In tourist markets like the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, bargaining is part of the shopping experience. However, prices are fixed in stores and restaurants.
Tipping: It is customary to leave a tip of about 5-10% of the bill in restaurants if a service charge (kuver) is not already included in the bill.
Istanbul is a safe city, but like any major metropolis, it is important to be mindful of your personal belongings in crowded places. As Joy Tekne Organizasyon, we wish you a pleasant and safe trip as you explore this beautiful city. If you have any desire for a special organization or to explore the Bosphorus from the sea, we would be happy to assist you.
