Sep
Planning a city trip to Istanbul in Turkey soon? Then you’ve picked an amazing destination. Istanbul is a vibrant metropolis where Europe and Asia meet, filled with impressive mosques, colorful neighborhoods, bustling bazaars, and, of course, delicious Turkish cuisine. While there’s so much to see and do, there are a few things that are useful to know before you go. That’s why I’m sharing 10 practical travel tips for Istanbul in this blog, so you can arrive well prepared and make the most of your city trip.
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About Istanbul
Istanbul is without a doubt one of the most fascinating cities you can visit. This vibrant metropolis is located in Turkey, on the shores of the Bosphorus. The best part? Here, you can literally travel between Europe and Asia.
The city has an impressive history. Istanbul was once at the heart of the Byzantine Empire and later the Ottoman Empire. You can still see traces of this rich past all across the city today. Think of the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the magnificent Topkapı Palace.
But Istanbul is so much more than its historic landmarks. Every neighborhood has its own unique atmosphere. Wander through the colorful streets of Balat or explore lively Karaköy. Stroll through the bustling bazaars and then hop on a ferry to the Asian side. The boat ride alone is an experience!
What makes Istanbul so special to me are the contrasts. Centuries-old mosques stand alongside trendy coffee bars and modern shops. You hear the call to prayer while ferries cross the Bosphorus. Everywhere you look, there is movement, color, and life.
Foodies will feel right at home here too. Try freshly baked simit, order a selection of meze, and enjoy an elaborate Turkish breakfast. And, of course, you can’t leave without tasting some sweet baklava.
Above all, take your time to explore Istanbul. Look beyond the famous things to do in Istanbul and allow yourself to get lost every now and then. That’s often when you discover the best places.
10 travel tips for Istanbul you need to know before you go
1 – How to travel to Istanbul
From Belgium, flying is by far the fastest way to travel to Istanbul. From Brussels Airport, you can find direct flights to the city. The flight takes around 3.5 hours, making it ideal for a city trip!
Istanbul has two major airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). So, when booking your flight, make sure to check where exactly you’ll be landing. Both airports are located quite a distance from the city center.
From Istanbul Airport, you can take the metro or a Havaist shuttle. From Sabiha Gökçen Airport, you can continue your journey by metro or shuttle bus. Prefer a more convenient option? You can, of course, take a taxi or book a private transfer
Do you have more time and feel like an adventure? You can also travel overland. If you take the train from Belgium, you’ll need to change trains several times. Depending on your route, you might travel via Vienna, Budapest, or Bucharest. So, be prepared for quite a journey.
Traveling to Istanbul by bus is another option. It’s often more affordable, but the journey is very long. Expect to spend well over 30 hours on the road.
If you travel by car, the journey turns into a little road trip of its own. You’ll drive through Germany, Austria, and the Balkans on your way to Turkey. Allow at least three days for the journey, so you also have time to enjoy a few fun stops along the way.
For a regular city trip, I would personally choose to fly. That way, you’ll have much more time to explore Istanbul!
2 – Passport, visa and vaccinations: what do you need?
Fortunately, as a Belgian citizen, there isn’t much paperwork involved when planning a trip to Istanbul. You don’t need a visa for a tourist stay and can remain in Turkey for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Before you leave, make sure to check which travel documents you need. It’s also important to check the validity requirements for your identity card or passport. That way, you won’t face any unexpected surprises when it’s time to travel.
It’s also a good idea to check your vaccinations before your trip. A hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for Turkey. In addition, make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date. Depending on your travel plans, other vaccinations may also be recommended.
Always check the latest travel and health recommendations before departure. That way, you can set off for Istanbul with peace of mind.
In short: there’s little paperwork involved. Just double-check everything before you leave, and you’re ready to go!
3 – How to get around Istanbul?
Istanbul is huge, but fortunately, getting around is surprisingly easy. The public transport network is extensive and will take you almost anywhere. It’s also often faster than taking a taxi through the city’s busy traffic.
The tram is ideal for exploring the historic center, while the metro is a convenient option for longer distances.
My tip? Buy a red Istanbulkart as soon as you arrive. You can use it on the metro, tram, bus, and ferry, so there’s no need to buy a separate ticket for every journey. Simply scan your card and you’re good to go.
You can top up your Istanbulkart at machines located throughout the city. First, select your language and place your card on the scanner. Then select ‘Top-Up’ and choose your payment method. It may take a moment to figure out the first time, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it.
During your city trip, make sure to take the ferry at least once. It might just be the most enjoyable way to get around. You can sail across the Bosphorus from Europe to Asia, while enjoying beautiful views of Istanbul along the way.
For shorter distances, you can of course take a taxi. Apps such as Uber and BiTaksi make booking a ride even easier.
And don’t forget to explore plenty on foot. That’s often how you discover the best hidden gems. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes, because Istanbul is quite hilly!
4 – Best time to visit Istanbul
So, when is the best time to visit Istanbul? Personally, I would choose spring or autumn. Temperatures are pleasant, and you’ll avoid the biggest summer crowds.
In spring, from April to June, Istanbul really comes to life. Parks and gardens are in bloom, and temperatures are generally mild. It’s the perfect time to spend hours exploring the city on foot.
We visited Istanbul ourselves in early May. The temperatures were pleasant, but the weather still surprised us. We had quite a bit of rain and, above all, lots of wind. So definitely don’t leave your rain jacket and a warm sweater at home!
September and October are also great months for a city trip. The biggest summer crowds have disappeared, while temperatures are often still pleasantly mild. As a bonus, the beautiful autumn light is perfect for photography.
July and August can get quite hot and crowded, which isn’t ideal if you plan to spend all day sightseeing. Winter, on the other hand, is much quieter and lets you experience a completely different side of Istanbul. Just keep in mind that it can be cold and rainy, and you might even get some snow.
5 – How many days do you need to explore Istanbul?
Istanbul is huge and there’s so much to see and do. That’s why I recommend spending at least 4 to 5 days on your city trip. This way, you won’t have to rush from one highlight to the next.
In four or five days, you can discover many of the best things to do in Istanbul, while still having time to simply wander around. And trust me, that’s something you’ll definitely want to do here!
Every neighborhood has a completely different atmosphere. One moment, you’re walking among centuries-old mosques and bustling bazaars. The next, you’re enjoying a coffee in a trendy neighborhood along the Bosphorus. You can even spontaneously hop on a ferry to the Asian side. It’s exactly this variety that makes Istanbul so much fun to explore.
Have more time? Even better! You can discover some of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods or plan a day with absolutely nothing on your schedule.
With 4 to 5 days, you’ll get a great first impression of Istanbul. Chances are, you’ll still have plenty left to discover afterwards!
6 – Booking accommodation in Istanbul
Istanbul is a popular destination, and the choice of hotels is enormous. Still, I recommend booking your accommodation well in advance. Popular hotels can fill up quickly, especially during spring and autumn, and prices can rise considerably during these periods.
Before booking, think carefully about where to stay in Istanbul. The city is huge, and every neighborhood has a completely different atmosphere. Your location can really make a difference during your city trip.
Want to stay close to the most famous sights? Sultanahmet is a convenient base. For great restaurants, shops, and a lively atmosphere, Galata and Karaköy are excellent choices. Prefer something more local and colorful? Take a look at Balat. You’ll also find some great neighborhoods on the Asian side, such as Kadıköy.
Since choosing isn’t always easy, I created a separate blog about where to stay in Istanbul. There, I share the best neighborhoods and hotels in Istanbul, making it easier to decide which area suits your trip best.
Below, you’ll also find a map where you can compare accommodations and immediately see exactly where they are located.
7 – Paying in Istanbul and tipping
In Istanbul, you pay with the Turkish lira (TRY). In many places, you can simply pay by debit card, credit card, or smartphone. Still, I recommend always carrying some Turkish lira in cash. It comes in handy at markets, small eateries, and local shops.
You can withdraw cash from the many ATMs throughout the city. If you’re given the choice to pay in euros or Turkish lira, always choose Turkish lira. This usually helps you avoid the unfavorable exchange rate offered by the payment terminal.
Prices in Istanbul can vary quite a bit. Around popular things to do in Istanbul, you’ll often pay more. Prices can be particularly high in the touristy parts of Sultanahmet. Walk a few streets further, and you’ll often find much more affordable places.
There’s no clear price divide between the European and Asian sides. You’ll also find inexpensive local neighborhoods on the European side. However, in areas such as Kadıköy, it can be easier to find local spots at more affordable prices.
Tipping is common in Istanbul when you’re happy with the service. In restaurants, you can leave around 5 to 10%. Just check first whether a service charge has already been added to the bill.
For taxis, you can simply round up the fare. A small tip for good service at hotels is also appreciated. It doesn’t have to be much!
8 – Wi-Fi and 5G in Istanbul
Staying connected in Istanbul is easy. You’ll have access to 4G or 5G in large parts of the city, and most hotels, restaurants, and cafés also offer free Wi-Fi.
Keep in mind that Turkey is not part of the EU roaming zone. This means your Belgian mobile plan won’t automatically work here without additional charges. Make sure to check your provider’s rates before your trip to avoid an unpleasant surprise on your bill.
If you want to use mobile internet without worrying about roaming charges, an eSIM is a convenient option. You can install it on your smartphone before your trip and choose a data plan for Turkey. That way, you can get online as soon as you arrive.
I use my smartphone constantly during a city trip, whether it’s for Google Maps, restaurant recommendations, tickets, or public transport. That’s why I also like to download an offline map of Istanbul in advance. It’s always useful when you temporarily lose your connection.
Planning to work during your stay? Check the Wi-Fi at your accommodation beforehand, as speed and quality can vary.
That way, you can easily navigate the city, plan your days, and of course share your best Istanbul photos!
9 – Must-try specialties in Istanbul
A city trip to Istanbul wouldn’t be complete without discovering Turkish cuisine. From street food to centuries-old dishes, the food alone will make you want to come back.
Start your day at least once with a traditional Turkish breakfast. Expect a table filled with bread, cheeses, olives, eggs, and all kinds of small dishes. And, of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a glass of Turkish tea.
For a quick bite, make sure to try simit. You’ll find this round sesame-covered bread literally everywhere. Börek, pide, and a good kebab should definitely be on your list too.
Be sure to try mantı as well, one of my favorite Turkish dishes. You can think of it as tiny Turkish ravioli. The little dough parcels are traditionally filled with seasoned minced meat and topped with garlic yogurt, melted butter, and various spices. Creamy, savory, and the ultimate comfort food!
And then there are the sweets! My personal favorite was pistachio baklava. Crispy layers of filo pastry, plenty of pistachios, and sweet syrup: absolutely addictive.
Around the Galata Tower , you’ll also see the famous San Sebastian cheesecake everywhere. It’s often served with a generous layer of chocolate sauce. Find a terrace with a view of the tower and you’ve got yourself a perfect Istanbul moment.
Make sure to try an authentic Turkish coffee too. It’s prepared unfiltered in a small cezve, sometimes slowly heated in hot sand. Strong and intense, it’s an experience in itself. Just drink it slowly, as the coffee grounds remain at the bottom of your cup.
Want to discover even more local flavors? An Istanbul food tour is a fun way to literally taste your way through the city.
10 – Discover the traces of Istanbul’s history
Istanbul is bursting with life, but behind all that energy lies an incredibly rich past. For centuries, the city was one of the most important places in the world, and several great empires left their mark here.
Istanbul was once known as Constantinople. The city grew into the powerful center of the Byzantine Empire. One of the most impressive landmarks dating back to this period is the Hagia Sophia. It was originally built as a Christian cathedral and later served several different purposes.
In 1453, the Ottomans conquered Constantinople. The city then became the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Mosques, palaces, bazaars, and hammams appeared throughout the city. The Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace are beautiful examples of this period.
Even during an ordinary walk through the city, you’ll constantly come across traces of its past. Wander through the Grand Bazaar or explore the colorful streets of Balat. Head underground to discover the mysterious Basilica Cistern. It’s precisely this variety that makes Istanbul’s history feel so tangible.
So, during your visit, make sure to look beyond the famous things to do in Istanbul. There’s a story hiding behind almost every façade.
Extra tip: Istanbul is a true city of cats
One thing you’ll immediately notice during your city trip to Istanbul? The cats! Istanbul is a true city of cats, and you’ll see them everywhere: sleeping on a chair outside a café, wandering between stalls at the bazaar, or even relaxing inside a mosque. They’re truly part of everyday life in the city.
What I found especially lovely was how well the locals take care of them. You’ll see bowls of food and water in many places, and lots of cats are looked after by people in the neighborhood. If you’re a cat lover, it’s almost impossible to walk through Istanbul without stopping every few minutes to take a photo.
Do you spot a kitten sitting all alone? As tempting as it may be for an animal lover to pick it up or try to ‘rescue’ it, it’s better not to. Often, the mother is nearby and will return. Moving the kitten can actually make it more difficult for her to find her baby again. So leave it where it is and observe from a distance instead.
Istanbul is one of those cities that surprises you from the very first moment. From impressive mosques and colorful bazaars to lively neighborhoods and delicious food, there’s always something to experience. It’s precisely the mix of Europe and Asia that makes this city so special. During one city trip, you can combine culture, history, gastronomy, and plenty of unexpected discoveries. I hope these travel tips for Istanbul help you make the most of your visit. Now there’s only one thing left to do: pack your bags and discover for yourself why Istanbul is so unforgettable!
Read more about Turkey?
- 10 Turkey travel tips you need to know before you go
- Where to stay in Istanbul: the best neighborhoods and hotels
- 30 best things to do in Istanbul: What to see and do?
Thanks for reading.
Yours truly,
Sarah
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