Which area in Istanbul is best for first time visitors?

Where is best to stay in Istanbul for the first time?

For First-Time Visitors: Sultanahmet is the best choice for its proximity to major landmarks. For Budget Travellers: Kadıköy and Galata offer affordable accommodations and local experiences. For Nightlife Enthusiasts: Beyoğlu is the place to be, with its endless bars, clubs, and live music venues.

What area of Istanbul is most walkable?

Where should I go for my first time in Turkey?

Istanbul. The cultural and historical heart of Turkey, where Europe meets Asia: Hagia Sophia: Once a church, then a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again, this architectural marvel spans centuries of history. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): Famous for its blue Iznik tiles and six minarets.

Is it better to stay in old town or new town in Istanbul?

If you are: -a first time visitor, with limited time, say 2 – 4 days, stay in the Old Town. This will be convenient. -a first time visitor, but with extended time, like 6 – 10 days, you can break your lodging between the Old Town and the New district or the Bosphorus.

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Which side of Istanbul should I stay?

The European side of Istanbul is your answer if you're thinking where to stay in Istanbul if it's your first time here. You have the heart of the city at your front door, what more could you ask for?

Should I stay in Taksim or Sultanahmet?

Sultanahmet is the best place to stay in Istanbul for tourist attractions. Also located in Europe, but on the opposite side of the Golden Horn to Taksim, Sultanahmet is the most touristy place in Istanbul.

Is tipping customary 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 is the main tourist street in Istanbul?

İstiklal Avenue. İstiklal Avenue (Turkish: İstiklal Caddesi, lit. 'Independence Avenue') is a 1.4 kilometre (0.87 mi) pedestrian street in the historic Beyoğlu (Pera) district in Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the most famous avenues in the city.

Where not to stay in Istanbul?

Gaziosmanpasa is one of Istanbul's most populated neighborhoods. Over the past century, it has been recognized as one of Turkey's most dangerous areas. This area is extremely impoverished, and its urban infrastructure is shaky and chaotic.

How to get around Istanbul as a tourist?

How far is Sultanahmet from the airport?

It takes approximately 42 min to drive 44.6 km from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sultanahmet. Can I drive from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sultanahmet? Yes, the driving distance between Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sultanahmet is 45 km. It takes approximately 42 min to drive from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Sultanahmet.

Where do most tourists stay in Turkey?

Most popular areas to stay in Turkey

Istanbul is, naturally, very popular with travellers from far and wide thanks to its rich history, cultural wonders like the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and its fascinating markets and food scene.

Which part of Istanbul is the cheapest?

Which area of Istanbul is best for tourists to stay?

How much is a taxi from Taksim Square to Sultanahmet?

What is the fastest way to get from Taksim Square to Sultanahmet? The fastest way to get from Taksim Square to Sultanahmet is to taxi which takes 7 min and costs 210 ₺ - 260 ₺. Is there a direct bus between Taksim Square and Sultanahmet? No, there is no direct bus from Taksim Square to Sultanahmet.

Is it safe to walk in Sultanahmet at night?

Safety of walking around Istanbul at night, especially in Sultanahmet area, with caution and awareness of surroundings. Istanbul at night can be alright, especially in Sultanahmet. Just stay aware of your surroundings, stick to busy areas, and don't flash valuables.

Do and don'ts in Istanbul?

Should I stay in Sultanahmet?

The biggest incentive to book a hotel in Sultanahmet is obviously its proximity to major sightseeing spots such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, etc. They are all within walking distance of most hotels located in this area.

Where to stay in Istanbul for first timers?

Sultanahmet – Best for first-time visitors, history lovers, and exploring on foot. Grand Bazaar District – Best for shopping and market lovers. Beyoğlu – Best for vibrant nightlife and foodies. Karaköy (Galata) – Best for trying Istanbul's street food and a cool, artsy vibe.

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.)

What is the most touristy part of Istanbul?

Taksim Square

Considered the heart of modern Istanbul, Taksim Square is one of the city's main tourist attractions and cosmopolitan hubs. Here, you can find a variety of restaurants, bars, clubs, theaters and shopping…

How do I get from Istanbul airport into town?

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.

What not to do in Istanbul, Turkey?

Which side of Istanbul is nicer?

The European side, known for its bustling markets and vibrant nightlife, offers a modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere. On the other hand, the Asian side offers a more laid-back and traditional ambiance, with picturesque neighborhoods and stunning views of the Bosphorus.