Is Istanbul walkable?

Istanbul is a largely walkable city, with major attractions like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Sultanahmet Square, all within a short walk of each other.

How do tourists get around Istanbul?

There are two, ultra-modern, slick and air-conditioned tram lines that serve many of the main tourist areas: the T1 line from Kabataş to Sultanahmet and the T4 line between Topkapı and Mescid-i selam.

Do and don'ts in Istanbul?

Can a woman wear jeans in Istanbul?

Most definitely women can wear jeans anywhere in Turkey. They are worn by women everywhere. In touristy areas especially, you can even wear jean shorts with no concern, though the longer the better.

Can you speak English in Istanbul?

Turkish is the official language of Turkey and English is widely spoken in Istanbul; visitors are often surprised by the relatively high level of English spoken by most Turks. An attempt to use Turkish is very much appreciated and considered good manners, though. See more information on the Turkish Language here.

Is Istanbul A Walkable City? - Pocket Friendly Adventures

Is it safe for UK citizens to travel to Istanbul?

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey. Most terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Is there Uber in Istanbul?

Yes. Sign in online or open your Uber app to request a ride in Istanbul, and let your driver take you where you want to go. (You might see other Istanbul transportation options available in your app, too.)

Can you drink alcohol in Istanbul?

Anyone over the age of 18 can buy alcoholic drinks in restaurants, bars etc. The local drinks like beer and wine are very reasonably priced but imported drinks can be a bit more expensive.

Do tourists have to wear hijab in Istanbul?

No, wearing a hijab (headscarf) is not required for women in Turkey.

What to wear to Hagia Sophia?

How to Visit. Even as a functioning mosque, Hagia Sophia welcomes visitors, but respectful attire is required. Women should wear long skirts or pants and cover their hair, while men should also wear long pants. For those who don't have appropriate clothing, skirts and scarves are available for rent.

Do you tip in Turkey?

Turkey Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is expected in Turkey and leaving a 10-15% tip on your bill in a restaurant is generally an acceptable amount. When it comes to other areas of the service industry, such as taxis and hairdressers, rounding up the fare is a nice gesture but not obligatory.

What to know about Turkey before you go?

Can you hold hands in Istanbul?

Turks love to touch each other, but there are rules. You might often see women holding hands with other women and men holding hands with other men. Sometimes women even put their hands around each other's waists while they walk or they hold the hand of their female friend while they talk.

Do you need cash in Istanbul?

It's usually best to have both cash and a card when travelling in Turkey. You'll need cash for small shops and markets, taxis and buses, while it's often easier to pay in hotels and restaurants with a card.

How do I get from Istanbul airport to city?

Traveling from Istanbul New Airport to the city by metro is the cheapest option. The total journey time to the center is around 1 hour and 30 minutes. You'll ride the M11 for 30 minutes to “Gayrettepe”, and from there you'll have to transfer to the M2 metro line and take the metro to Taksim station in about 10 minutes.

Is there a hop-on hop-off bus in Istanbul, Turkey?

Istanbul Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour. Hop aboard a sleek double‑decker, open‑top sightseeing bus and immerse yourself in Istanbul's timeless beauty from the soaring minarets of the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace to modern waterfront districts like Dolmabahçe and Galataport.

Is a taxi cheap in Istanbul?

Taxis are one of the quickest and cheapest ways of getting around Istanbul. A normal journey should cost between 8 TL ( US$ 0.19) and 12 TL ( US$ 0.29). Some taxi drivers in Istanbul are a little wild with their driving, and if you've only travelled around Europe it might be a little worrying.

Is Uber more expensive in Istanbul?

The price of an Uber taxi in Istanbul is similar to that of a local taxi, with the app calculating fares according to local taximeter regulations.

Do I need to carry my passport in Istanbul?

You should carry your passport or residence permit at all times. In some busy areas, especially at the entrances of airport passenger terminals, subways, shopping malls, crowded streets and venues and museum, the Turkish law enforcement authorities may stop members of the public to conduct ID checks.

What is Istanbul like for a holiday?

There are so many cliched phrases used to describe İstanbul - ancient and modern, where east meets west, old world blended with new world etc etc and they are all true. There is history, culture, shopping, sightseeing, museums, galleries, boat trips. There is SO much!

Is Turkey on the do not travel list?

Turkey - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Reissued after periodic reviews with minor edits. Exercise increased caution when traveling to Türkiye due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk.

How much does it cost to enter Hagia Sophia?

Admission Fee: The first floor is free for Turks; the second floor (the gallery floor) is 25 euros for local and foreign tourists. Explore during the winter months: Plan your visit during the winter months to explore Hagia Sophia in comfort and avoid crowds and large groups of tourists.

Can you wear jeans to Blue Mosque?

Dress code

Both men and women are required to wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.

What is closed in Istanbul on Monday?

When planning your itinerary, keep in mind the closures for these top sites: Closed Monday: Archaeological Museums, Ayasofya, Dolmabahçe Palace, Great Palace Mosaics Museum. Closed Tuesday: Topkapı Palace and Harem. Closed Wednesday: Chora Museum, Rumeli Fortress.

Is tram free in Turkey?

However, all payments would be made in Turkish lira. City bus, Metro, tram, funicular, ferry: full-fare costs 0.50 cents; the first transfer to another vehicle: 0.35 cents. Children 6 years and older must pay a fare; those younger than six years who do not occupy a seat may travel without a ticket.