Istanbul

Istanbul is a very large city of fantastic history, culture and beauty. Called Byzantium in ancient times, renamed Constantinople, now Istanbul, it straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus. With over 14 million people, it is one of the largest cities in the world and the financial and cultural center of Turkey.

Istanbul has two major airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side. Both have extensive international and domestic flights. Metro line M11 connects IST to the city center. For visa, most EU, UK, CIS and South American visitors do not need a visa; others can get an e-visa online valid for 90 days.

Public transport is managed by İETT and includes metro, tram, bus, and ferry. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable smart card that gives discounted fares. Single tickets can be bought at vending machines but only with cash in Turkish lira. Transfers require a new fare. Apps like Mobiett and Google Maps help with route planning.

Istanbul has an oceanic climate with warm, sunny summers and cool, rainy winters. Summers are moderately dry, while winters are chilly with frequent rain and occasional snow. The city is cloudy about half the year. Spring and fall are pleasant but can be rainy.

Accommodation is available throughout the city. Sultanahmet is the main tourist area in the old city with hostels and budget hotels. Harbiye and Taksim are popular in the new city with mid-range options. Upscale hotels are in the western suburbs and along the European Bosphorus. Caravan parks exist in Ahırkapı and Maltepe.

For a full culinary experience, look for 'esnaf lokantası' canteens serving traditional dishes. Street food is abundant, including simit, döner, and balık-ekmek. Meyhanes (taverns) offer a drinking culture with rakı and meze. Popular nightlife areas include Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, and Karaköy.

Top attractions include Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Istanbul Archaeological Museums. Experience a traditional Turkish bath (hamam) in Sultanahmet. Smoke nargile (waterpipe) near the Grand Bazaar. Take a Bosphorus cruise for views of the city.

Drivers in Istanbul often ignore traffic rules; always be aware even on crosswalks. A major earthquake is expected in the coming decades. Tourists are frequently overcharged, so ask prices before ordering. Avoid wearing jerseys of rival football clubs (Beşiktaş, Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray) on match days due to fan violence.

For SIM cards and Wi-Fi, see the Turkey country article. Public transport apps like Mobiett are useful. Power plugs are types C and F, 230V/50Hz.

Hotel and restaurant owners may raise prices if listed in popular guidebooks, so consider avoiding those places for mid-range options. Bargaining is common in bazaars but not in regular shops.

The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) is a must-visit for shopping, selling carpets, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs. Bargaining is expected. Other shopping areas include Istiklal Avenue and Bağdat Caddesi.