The best time to visit Istanbul is during spring (April to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are less dense compared to the peak summer months.
Top attractions in Istanbul include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, the Basilica Cistern, Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus Strait, which offers scenic cruises between the European and Asian sides of the city.
Visa requirements for Turkey depend on your nationality. Many visitors can get an e-Visa online before arrival, while others may be eligible for visa-free entry for short stays. It's important to check the latest visa regulations for your specific country.
The currency in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in markets and when using taxis.
Istanbul is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, visitors should take standard precautions. It's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, guard against pickpocketing in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
The official language spoken in Istanbul is Turkish. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, among hotel staff, and in many restaurants. However, it's helpful to learn a few basic Turkish phrases for more local interactions.
It is generally recommended to drink bottled water instead of tap water in Istanbul as the tap water in some areas may not be safe to drink due to different purification processes. Bottled water is cheap and readily available.
Traditional food in Istanbul includes dishes like kebabs, mezes (small appetizers), simit (a sesame-encrusted bread ring), bal?k ekmek (fish sandwich), baklava (sweet pastry), and Turkish delight. Istanbul is also famous for its street food.
Istanbul has a comprehensive public transport system, including buses, trams, ferries, and the Metro. Taxi services are also widely available, and there's a mobile app called 'BiTaksi' for hailing cabs. The Istanbulkart transit pass is a convenient way to pay for various modes of transport.
Cultural etiquette in Istanbul includes dressing modestly when visiting mosques, removing shoes before entering mosque or home, greeting with a handshake or nodding with a smile, and respecting local traditions and customs such as Ramadan observance. It's also customary to leave a tip in restaurants, at around 5-10% of the bill.
