Discover Istanbul: A Comprehensive Guide
Istanbul stands out as a distinct city in the world. Spanning two continents, it is a city characterized by layers and contrasts. Historic sights such as Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace sit alongside bustling bars and lively cafes. Furthermore, Ottoman-era mosques are just a short walk from contemporary art museums and galleries. Traditional carpet shops are mingled with trendy boutiques, showcasing a dynamic coexistence of old and new. The city is perpetually pulsating with activity.
Time Zone
Turkey operates on GMT+3 year-round, known as TRT (Turkey Time), and does not observe daylight savings.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal for visiting Istanbul due to the favorable mild weather. In April, the city celebrates a vibrant Tulip Festival, transforming parks and green spaces with colorful blooms. The sweltering summer months often drive residents to escape to southern beaches, while the city comes alive at night. Winter, marked by gray skies and rain, showcases Istanbul’s moody charm.
Essential Information
The primary language spoken in Istanbul is Turkish. However, with a significant international presence, you may encounter English, Arabic, and Farsi. Turkish individuals are typically welcoming and willing to assist, even if there’s a language barrier. Be prepared for close quarters in this bustling city, as personal space is at a premium.
The Bosphorus Strait, which divides the city, functions as a vital global shipping route connecting the Sea of Marmara with the Black Sea. It is not uncommon to see large container ships gliding by as you enjoy a commuter ferry ride.
While Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city, the capital is actually Ankara. Nonetheless, the opulent palaces lining the Bosphorus remind visitors of Istanbul’s historical significance as the former capital of the Ottoman Empire.
Currency: Turkish Lira (TL)
Calling Code: +90
Language: Turkish
I don’t speak Turkish: Türkçe bilmiyorum.
I’m lost: Kayboldum
Can I have…?: …alabilirmiyim?
Where is…?: … nerede?
Getting Around Istanbul
Navigating Istanbul’s intricate transportation network is straightforward, with multiple metro lines featuring clear signage and modern cars. These connections extend to an above-ground tram line and two funiculars. The Marmaray, a cross-continent metro line that runs beneath the Bosphorus Strait, links the metro systems on the European and Asian sides, including expanded routes into suburban areas. Ferries are a popular and efficient way to traverse from Europe to Asia, operating on a reliable schedule throughout the day.
City buses complement the metro system, accessible with the IstanbulKart, which also works for the Marmaray and ferries. If bus routes do not meet your needs, consider the dolmuş service, a shared yellow van that operates on a fixed route. Taxis are widely available, especially in tourist areas, and using apps like BiTaksi can simplify the taxi-hailing process.
Recommended Hotels in Istanbul
1. Ciragan Palace Kempinski
Address: Ciragan Caddesi 32, 34349 Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 326 4646
Website
This luxurious hotel, located in a former Ottoman palace along the Bosphorus Strait, features an outdoor infinity pool, a rejuvenating spa with a traditional Turkish hamam, and exquisite dining options.
2. Corinne Hotel
Address: Kuloğlu Mah., Turnacıbaşı Caddesi 41, 34433 Beyoğlu/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 293 94 94
Website
Situated in the vibrant Beyoğlu area, Corinne Hotel provides a chic base for exploring Istanbul’s nightlife. The boutique hotel features modern amenities and a stunning rooftop terrace.
3. Sirkeci Mansion
Address: Taya Hatun Sokak 5, 34120 Sirkeci/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 528 43 44
Website
Located in Sultanahmet, Sirkeci Mansion offers spacious accommodations and is within walking distance from key attractions like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
4. Pera Palace Hotel
Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi 52, 34430 Tepebasi/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 377 4000
Website
This historic hotel combines modern luxury with rich history, having hosted notable personalities while providing proximity to Istanbul’s major thoroughfares.
5. The Bank Hotel
Address: Azapkapı, Bankalar Caddesi 5/1, 34421 Beyoğlu/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 283 00 55
Website
The Bank Hotel, once a late-Ottoman era bank, features a stylish boutique atmosphere and is strategically located amidst Istanbul’s historic sites and nightlife.
6. Splendid Palace Hotel
Address: Büyükada-nizam, Yirmiüç Nisan Caddesi 39, 34970 Adalar/Istanbul
Phone: +90 216 382 69 50
Website
On Istanbul’s largest island, this beautiful hotel blends modern sophistication with a vintage touch. Guests can unwind by the outdoor pool, basking in the sun.
Top Restaurants in Istanbul
1. Mikla
Address: The Marmara Pera, Meşrutiyet Caddesi 15, 34430 Beyoğlu/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 293 5656
Website
Co-founded by renowned chef Mehmet Gurs, Mikla is celebrated for its innovative take on Istanbul’s traditional cuisine, offering sophisticated dining with breathtaking views.
2. Ciya Sofrasi
Address: Caferağa Mah. Güneşlibahçe Sokak 43, 34710 Kadıköy/Istanbul
Phone: +90 216 330 3190
Website
This modest restaurant in Kadıköy is famed for its ever-evolving Anatolian cuisine, highlighting the diversity of Turkish flavors.
3. Akin Balik
Address: Azapkapı, Gümrük Han, Fermeneciler Caddesi 40/A, 34420 Beyoğlu/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 244 97 76
Website
Nestled in the lively Karakoy district, Akin Balik is known for its picturesque waterfront setting and lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying traditional meze.
4. Aheste
Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi 107/F, 34430 Beyoglu/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 243 2633
Website
This bistro elegantly fuses Turkish, Persian, and Middle Eastern elements into its dishes, creating a unique dining experience in the Pera neighborhood.
Must-Visit Attractions
1. Hagia Sophia
Address: Ayasofya Meydanı 1, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul
Phone: +90212 522 17 50
Website
This architectural masterpiece has served as a Byzantine church, an Ottoman mosque, and now a mosque once more. Visitors are invited to admire its stunning mosaics.
2. Topkapi Palace
Address: Cankurtaran Mah, 4122 Fatih/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 512 04 80
Website
Once the center of Ottoman power, this opulent palace offers insights into the dynasty’s history and a glimpse into imperial life.
3. Galata Tower
Address: Bereketzade, Galata kulesi, 34421 Beyoğlu/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 245 4141
Website
An iconic part of Istanbul’s skyline, Galata Tower offers sweeping views of the city from its observation deck.
4. Suleymaniye Mosque
Address: Süleymaniye Mah, Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Caddesi 1, 34116 Fatih/Istanbul
Website
This stunning mosque exemplifies Ottoman architecture with its intricate tiles and enormous dome.
5. Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam
Address: Kemankeş Mah. Hamam Sokak 1, 34425 Tophane Karaköy/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 393 80 10
Website
Indulge in an opulent Turkish bath experience at Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam, a beautifully restored historic bathhouse.
Shopping Destinations
1. Grand Bazaar
Address: Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. 22, 34126 Fatih/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 519 12 48
This vast market houses an impressive array of artisans and vendors, ideal for finding traditional Turkish goods and unique souvenirs.
2. Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)
Address: Rüstem Paşa, Erzak Ambarı Sokak 92, 34116 Fatih/Istanbul
Phone: +90 212 513 65 97
Experience the fragrant world of spices at this historic bazaar, filled with Turkish delight and artisanal products.
3. Arasta Bazaar
Address: Kabasakal Caddesi, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul
Located near the Blue Mosque, this market offers handmade crafts and Turkish textiles.
4. Souq Dukkan
Address: Büyükdere Caddesi 185, 34330 Şişli/Istanbul
Phone: +90 555 030 82 32
Website
Focusing on the works of local designers, this bazaar presents unique Turkish items representing creativity and craftsmanship.
Weather in Istanbul
Winter: Istanbul winters are characterized by gray skies and frequent rain, with average temperatures of 45-50°F, creating a cozy yet dim ambiance.
Spring: Witness the beauty as temperatures rise to 65-70°F and flowers bloom, inviting visitors to enjoy the city’s outdoor spaces.
Summer: Summers can be long and humid, with temperatures around 85°F. However, the refreshing sea breeze offers some respite from the heat.
Fall: Autumn brings comfortable weather with reduced humidity, making it one of the best seasons to explore Istanbul.
Popular Apps to Download
BiTaksi: A local taxi-hailing app for convenient rides around the city.
iOS | Android
Uber: An internationally-recognized taxi-hailing app.
iOS | Android
Trafi: For live traffic updates to navigate the city efficiently.
iOS | Android
Moovit: An aggregator for public transportation schedules.
iOS | Android
