Istanbul travel guide

The local currency in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY), with banknotes ranging from 5 to 200 TRY and coins from 1 Kurus to 1 Lira. International credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the city, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. However, small businesses, especially in the old parts of the city, may prefer cash. ATMs are plentiful and offer decent exchange rates. Be aware that some may charge a withdrawal fee. For budgeting, Istanbul is generally affordable compared to many Western cities, but prices can vary widely. Areas such as Sultanahmet and Taksim can be pricier, while local markets and eateries offer more budget-friendly options. Always carry some cash for smaller expenditures.

Turkish is the official language of Istanbul, but English is increasingly understood in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Nevertheless, a few basic Turkish phrases can go a long way. Try to learn simple greetings like 'Merhaba' (Hello), 'Teşekkür ederim' (Thank you), and 'Lütfen' (Please).

Do not be surprised if you hear locals using 'Evet' (Yes) and 'Hayir' (No) quite frequently. Keep in mind that Turkish has different forms of 'you' for formal and informal situations, so be mindful of your choice. Also, the Turkish language often adds a vowel at the end of English words to fit their phonetic system, so don't be surprised if 'taxi' sounds more like 'taksi'. Remember, a smile and patience are universal languages, so don't worry if you aren't fluent in Turkish.

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Istanbul is more than just a wonderful city in Turkey. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Turkey's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Istanbul is the unforgettable Egyptian Bazaar. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Istanbul. This remarkable attraction is located at Rüstem Paşa, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye, and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 08:00-19:30.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Istanbul, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Istanbul, including the fascinating Egyptian Bazaar, Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, and The Blue Mosque.

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Istanbul.

In Istanbul, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 25 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Tours by vehicle.

Tours by vehicle offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Istanbul. For example, the fantastic 6 Days Guided Istanbul and Cappadocia Tour .

Istanbul also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Turkey Data eSIM 0.5GB daily to 50GB 30 Days, for example, is the cheapest Half-day Tour option in the city. This experience costs around 3 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Istanbul adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Istanbul right below.

Discover the best things to do in Istanbul. Choose from 3152 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Istanbul. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Istanbul.

When visiting Istanbul, the culinary landscape offers an array of delights to explore. The city teems with dining districts, each presenting a unique gastronomic experience. From the bustling street food stalls of Kadiköy to the high-end restaurants in Nişantaşı, Istanbul satiates every palette. The best places to eat in Istanbul serve traditional dishes like 'Istanbul Pilavı', a street food staple comprising rice, chickpeas, and chicken, or 'Manti', a ravioli-like dish. For seafood lovers, a visit to the Bosphorus district is a must for its famous 'Balik Ekmek' (fish sandwich). In the Sultanahmet district, try the 'Döner', a slow-cooked meat sandwich. Be sure to savour 'Baklava', a sweet pastry, in the renowned Güllüoğlu cafe in Karaköy. Istanbul's food scene is rich with vendors selling 'Simit', a sesame-encrusted bread ring, and 'Ayran', a traditional yoghurt drink, perfect for a quick snack. Istanbul's food is not just about dining, it's about experiencing the city's heart and soul.

The heart of Istanbul's nightlife throbs in the vibrant districts of Beyoglu and Kadikoy, considered by many as the best areas for bars in Istanbul. Beyoglu, with its famous Istiklal Street, is the epicenter of the city's night scene. It's home to numerous bars, clubs, and music venues offering a variety of entertainment options, from traditional Turkish music to modern jazz. The district of Kadikoy, on the Asian side, has a bohemian vibe with its unique blend of stylish pubs, wine houses, and nightclubs.

The nightlife in Istanbul is a unique fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, giving visitors an unforgettable experience. Don't miss a visit to Nardis Jazz Club in Galata for a taste of Istanbul's jazz scene, or Babylon in Asmalimescit for a diverse line-up of live music. For a more traditional experience, head to the taverns in Nevizade Street where you can enjoy raki, a Turkish anise-flavoured spirit, while listening to Turkish folk music. Istanbul's nightlife is not just about the music and drinks, it's about experiencing the city's pulsating energy and rich cultural tapestry.

Shopping in Istanbul is an extravaganza of colors, tastes, and textures. The city is a haven for shoppers looking for a unique blend of traditional and modern offerings. The Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, is the best place to go shopping in Istanbul. Here, you can find everything from intricate hand-made carpets, ceramics, and jewelry, to high-quality leather goods. One must-buy souvenir is the ‘evil eye’ amulet, a local charm believed to ward off bad luck.

After experiencing the hustle and bustle of the Grand Bazaar, head over to Istiklal Street in the Beyoğlu district, home to international brands, local boutiques, and the Demiroren Istiklal Shopping Center. Don't miss the chance to explore Nişantaşı, Istanbul's most exclusive neighborhood, boasting an array of high-end fashion brands and local design stores. For a more modern shopping experience, visit the luxurious Istinye Park mall, featuring a mix of indoor and outdoor shopping spaces. Remember, bargaining is part of the shopping culture in markets and some independent shops, so don’t shy away from haggling to get the best deal!

Istanbul, Turkey's vibrant metropolis, is brimming with a multitude of free activities that offer an immersive cultural experience. Among the best free things to do in Istanbul is a visit to the Sultanahmet district, the historic heart of the city. Here you can admire the grandeur of the Blue Mosque's six minarets and the Hagia Sophia's imposing dome, both significant architectural marvels. For a tranquil escape, head to Gulhane Park, a lush, serene oasis perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. Along the Bosphorus, enjoy a cost-free promenade, soaking in the picturesque views of the strait that separates Asia and Europe. Don't miss the chance to explore Istanbul's vibrant markets, particularly the Spice Bazaar, where the air is filled with the aroma of exotic spices, and the Grand Bazaar, a sprawling market adorned with beautiful Turkish ceramics and textiles. Finally, cap your day by watching the mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes, a spiritual dance performed at the Galata Mevlevi Museum, offering insight into the mystical Sufi tradition.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Istanbul is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Istanbul. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Istanbul, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Istanbul even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Istanbul both affordable and unforgettable.

Travelers visiting Istanbul can easily access the city via Istanbul Airport, and Sabiha Gökçen International, offering direct connection to 1292 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Istanbul below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Istanbul and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Renting a car in Istanbul is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Istanbul, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Istanbul for your upcoming adventures in Turkey below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Istanbul. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Istanbul, Turkey, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Turkey. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Traveling to another city or region in Turkey? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Istanbul to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Turkey on the selected dates.