Istanbul

Map of Istanbul

Where should I stay in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a huge, sprawling city with a population more than twice the size of New York City. You could easily spend years exploring neighborhoods and still not get to all of them – there’s so much to see!

Where to stay in Istanbul: Most popular neighborhoods (European Side)

Most visitors choose to stay on the European side of the city in Beyoglu, which includes popular neighborhoods like Galata, Karakoy and Cihangir. There’s lots of food and drink options, good links to public transport (including the airport shuttles in Taksim) and endless backstreets to wander.

Where to stay in Istanbul: Going beyond Beyoglu

Other neighborhoods to consider include Kadikoy on the Asian side of the city – my favorite since you can easily reach the European side by ferry! Besiktas has a young, lively crowd and sites like Dolmabahce Palace. Those who come from work might like the business districts in Maslak or Atasehir. If you’d like to avoid the crowds (particularly in the off-season) consider island life on Buyukada or another of the Princes Islands.

Where to stay in Turkey: Going beyond Istanbul

Most first-time visitors to Turkiye will start Istanbul and perhaps venture to one or two other locations elsewhere in the country. (When I first arrived my loose plan was: Istanbul, Cappadocia and Gaziantep.) There are flights, trains and overnight buses to many other regions and if you have a week or longer, you can easily get out to explore multiple regions. There’s a huge difference in climate, geography, culture, food, etc. from region to region so it’s worth it to explore!

Using public transportation in Istanbul

The extensive public transportation system in Istanbul is one of my favorite things about living in this city! My favorite ways to get around are by ferry or metro, but you also have the option to take buses, the metrobus, tram, or funiculars. Getting around is inexpensive and the people watching is superb. You really get a good feel for the city and it’s inhabitants when trying to get around on foot or by public transport. Give yourself extra time whenever possible, especially in modes of transport that depend on roads – traffic can be heavy!

What apps should I download before coming to Turkey?

Best public transportation apps for Istanbul

The best apps for using public transportation in Istanbul, in my opinion, is Moovit. It will help you navigate to your destination easily with multiple modes of transport, including the transfers and an estimate of the cost. I used to use Google Maps as well, but lately I notice that the ferry routes aren’t always included and the ferries are my favorite!

Transport in Istanbul: Taxi apps

Try to avoid taking taxis if at all possible as public transport is easy and convenient! If you must take a taxi, try to do so through an app such as BiTaksi (preferred), iTaxi or Uber. Pro tip: Set your hotel address as your “home” location so you can easily get back to it.

Turkish language apps

English is not always widely spoken outside of touristic areas in Turkey, so it can help to learn a few words before your trip. The Google Translate app will come in handy to help you understand signs and to translate conversations. Download the Turkish language to your Google Translate app before you leave to be able to use it offline as well. The camera option will allow you to translate signs and text in real time, or you can use it to upload screenshots or photos of text that you need to translate.

Using an eSIM or tourist SIM card in Istanbul

It’s really useful to have an internet connection when you’re trying to use public transportation in Istanbul. Before you leave your home country, make sure that your phone is unlocked by your carrier so that you’ll be able to swap in a local SIM card. Tourist SIM card packages are usually good for about 30 days and are not too expensive. Local companies you can use include Turkcell (this is what I use), Vodafone or Turk Telekom. If you have a newer model phone, you may also consider an eSIM from Airalo.

What kind of charger will I need in Istanbul?

In Turkey, you’ll need the European style two-prong plug, although its quite common these days to be using USB-style chargers (you can even find them on some public transport for a quick top-up). You can easily find chargers and adapters for sale, sometimes hotels might have extras from their lost and found you could borrow. Be sure you double check the voltage on appliances you may bring, like hair dryers or other electronics.