Welcome to the legendary city of Istanbul, where two continents meet and thousands of years of history intertwine with modern life! For first-time visitors, this dynamic metropolis can be as confusing as it is exciting. A few practical pieces of information, from transportation to currency, and from dress codes to social customs, will make your trip much more comfortable and enjoyable. This comprehensive guide offers tips for first-time visitors to Istanbul, designed to help you explore the city like a local. Here are 10 essential things to know before you begin your Istanbul adventure.
1. Transportation: How to Get and Use an Istanbulkart
The most economical and practical way to use Istanbul’s extensive and efficient public transportation network is to acquire a single travel card called the Istanbulkart. This card is valid on almost all public transport vehicles, including the metro, tram, bus, Marmaray (the intercontinental train line), and city ferries.
- How to Get It: You can easily purchase an Istanbulkart from the yellow or blue “Biletmatik” vending machines located at the entrances of all metro and tram stations, including Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). The card itself has a small non-refundable fee.
- How to Use It: After purchasing the card, you need to load money (credit) onto it from the same machines or at newsstands (kiosks). You simply hold your card near the reader when passing through turnstiles or boarding vehicles. The card can be used by a single person, as well as by a group or family (by tapping it consecutively). However, you can only benefit from transfer discounts with single-person use.
2. Currency: Cash or Credit Card? Where to Exchange Money?
The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Although credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, large restaurants, and chain stores in Istanbul, it is highly recommended to carry some cash with you. You will need cash, especially when shopping from local artisans, small shops, or markets, taking a taxi, or leaving a tip.
- Exchanging Money: You can generally find the best exchange rates at authorized exchange offices (“Döviz”) in tourist areas like the Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet, or Taksim. Banks also exchange currency, but their rates may be slightly lower. It is advisable to exchange only a small amount at airport exchange offices—just enough for transportation into the city—as they usually offer the lowest rates. Always ask about commission rates beforehand.
3. Accommodation: Which Area Should You Stay In?
Istanbul offers a wide variety of accommodation areas suitable for every taste and budget. For first-time visitors, the most popular and practical areas are:
| Area | Ideal For | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Sultanahmet | History enthusiasts, first-time visitors | Within walking distance of major tourist sites like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. | Limited nightlife, restaurants are often more tourist-oriented. |
| Karaköy/Galata | Young travelers, art and design lovers | Trendy cafes, boutique shops, art galleries. Close to the Galata Tower and Galata Bridge. | Hilly streets, can be crowded on weekends. |
| Beyoğlu/Taksim | Nightlife and shopping lovers | Istiklal Avenue, restaurants, bars, vibrant nightlife. At the center of the transportation network. | Can be crowded and noisy, may feel distant from an authentic experience. |
| Kadıköy (Asian Side) | Those who want to experience local life | Lively market, local restaurants, bars, a calmer atmosphere. Easy access to the European side by ferry. | Slightly further from the main tourist centers. |
4. Safety: General Tips and Things to Watch Out For
Istanbul is generally a very safe city for a large metropolis. However, as in any crowded city, it is wise to be cautious. Among the most important safety tips for Istanbul are:
- Pickpocketing: Be mindful of your bag and pockets, especially on crowded public transport like trams and metros, and in busy tourist areas such as the Grand Bazaar and Istiklal Avenue. Keep your bag in front of you.
- Taxi Scams: Always use official yellow taxis and make sure the taximeter is turned on. It’s a good idea to check the approximate cost of your destination via an app.
- General Caution: Avoid poorly lit or deserted streets at night. Leave your valuable belongings in your hotel’s safe.
5. Dress Code: What to Wear When Visiting Mosques?
Although Turkey is a secular country, the majority of the population is Muslim, and it is important to show respect for religious sites. The most crucial answer to the question of what to wear in Istanbul applies to mosque visits. When visiting active mosques like the Blue Mosque or the Süleymaniye Mosque, women are expected to cover their heads with a scarf and wear modest clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Men should also wear long trousers instead of shorts. Scarves and coverings are usually available to borrow at the entrance, but carrying your own scarf may be more hygienic. Remember that you must take off your shoes before entering a mosque.
6. Language: Basic Turkish Phrases
Although English is widely spoken in tourist areas of Istanbul, learning a few basic Turkish phrases will both facilitate your communication with locals and be perceived as a sign of respect.
- Merhaba: Hello
- Teşekkür ederim: Thank you
- Lütfen: Please
- Evet / Hayır: Yes / No
- Günaydın: Good morning
- İyi akşamlar: Good evening
- Hesap, lütfen: The bill, please
- Bu ne kadar?: How much is this?
7. Dining Culture: Tipping and Reservation Etiquette
Turkish dining culture is rich and diverse. A service charge is not usually included in the bill at restaurants. If you are satisfied with the service, it is customary to leave a tip of between 5% and 10% of the total bill. For upscale or popular restaurants, it is a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially for weekend evenings.
8. Plugs and Electricity: Should You Bring an Adapter?
Turkey uses the “Type F” two-pin round plugs, which are common throughout Europe. The electrical voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz. If you are coming from North America, the UK, or other countries with different plug standards, you will need to bring a plug adapter to charge your electronic devices.
9. Internet and SIM Cards: Ways to Stay Connected
Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in Istanbul offer free Wi-Fi service. However, if you want uninterrupted internet access throughout your trip, getting a local SIM card is the best option. Operators like Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom have numerous stores at the airports and in the city center. You can easily purchase a “tourist pack” from these stores by showing your passport. These packs usually include a certain amount of internet data, call time, and SMS.
10. Customs and Traditions: Social Rules You Should Know
Turkish culture and customs are built on hospitality. People are generally helpful and warm. A few basic social rules to know are:
- Bargaining: In historical markets like the Grand Bazaar or the Spice Bazaar, bargaining is part of the shopping experience. However, in modern stores or boutiques, prices are fixed.
- Tea Offering: Being offered tea while in a shop or talking with a local is a common gesture of hospitality. Accepting it is considered polite.
- Respect: Elders are always shown respect, and they are given seats on public transport.
- Taking Photos: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially of women in headscarves.
