🇹🇷 Turkey
Istanbul travel guide
Istanbul, straddling Europe and Asia, is a mesmerizing city where East meets West. Once Constantinople, it's home to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and a rich Ottoman heritage, alongside modern neighborhoods and vibrant nightlife.
Language
Turkish (English in tourist areas)
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Timezone
TRT (UTC+3)
Best time
April to May, September to November
Budget/day
TRY 1500-4000/day ($45-120)
When to visit
Jan
3°C - 9°C
Feb
3°C - 10°C
Mar
5°C - 12°C
Apr
9°C - 17°C
May
14°C - 22°C
Jun
18°C - 27°C
Jul
21°C - 29°C
Aug
21°C - 30°C
Sep
17°C - 26°C
Oct
13°C - 20°C
Nov
8°C - 15°C
Dec
5°C - 11°C
Safety
safeIstanbul is generally safe. Pickpockets active in Sultanahmet and Grand Bazaar. Use official yellow taxis or BiTaksi app.
Women travellers
Generally safe. Dress modestly in conservative areas. Avoid isolated areas late at night.
Culture & etiquette
- + Remove shoes before entering mosques
- + Dress modestly - cover shoulders and knees at mosques
- + Women should cover hair in mosques (scarves available)
- + Bargain at Grand Bazaar - it's expected
- - Don't show excessive PDA
- - Don't insult Atatürk - it's illegal
- - Don't take photos inside mosques during prayer
- - Don't wear shoes inside homes
Food to try
Kebabs
Various styles - Adana, Urfa, döner, iskender
Meze
Small plates - hummus, patlıcan, dolma
Baklava
Sweet pastry with nuts and syrup
Simit
Sesame bread ring - Turkish breakfast staple
Turkish Breakfast
Elaborate spread of cheeses, eggs, olives, bread
Turkish Tea & Coffee
Must experience - tea in tulip glasses, thick coffee
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.