Travel planning for Istanbul
Are you thinking about traveling to Istanbul or your trip is coming up very soon? Then you are at the right place! Here is a lot of valuable information that will simplify your Istanbul vacation and make it an unforgettable experience. As beautiful as Istanbul is, it must also be said that it can become a big challenge for tourists if certain things are not regulated. Do you know how to get from the airport to the city center, when is the best time to travel, and how to use public transportation in the city? Here are answers to all these questions and much much more information!
Some helpful reads for your first time in Istanbul
When is the best time to travel to Istanbul?
Avoid Istanbul in June to August and December to February for pleasant weather conditions. Instead, visit in April to May for pleasant weather, or September to October for mild conditions and romantic autumn views with light jackets.
Where are the best places to stay in Istanbul?
Istanbul offers diverse accommodation options. This guide identifies the top 5 places to stay for an exceptional experience, providing insights into public transportation, activities, and area pros and cons to help you choose the ideal location for your Istanbul visit.
How to use the İstanbulkart for public transport in Istanbul & prices
Discover all you need to know about the İstanbulkart, the city’s efficient public transportation system. This guide offers a detailed explanation of the card, its practical use, acquisition process, and value assessment, enabling you to navigate Istanbul’s public transport seamlessly. İstanbulkart is a rechargeable card for accessing various modes of transportation, and we’ll explain how to purchase tickets for buses, trains, ferries, and metros, along with pricing details and where to buy your İstanbulkart.
Getting around in Istanbul for first-time visitors
There are many means of transportation from Istanbul Airport. Taxis, private shuttle busses, and public transportation is running between Istanbul Airport and the frequently visited destinations. Read here more about how to go from the airport to Taksim or Sultanahmet with the shuttle bus.
The easiest way to go to the city center from Sabiha Gökcen Airport in Istanbul is by using a taxi. There are also possibilities to use the newly opened metro line to Kadiköy or the Havabus shuttle bus to Taksim. Read here more about transportation from the airport.
There are many hotels throughout the city that will welcome you with traditional Turkish hospitality. The most important factors for choosing a hotel in Istanbul are the location and the connection to public transport. Istanbul is known for traffic jams all day long, therefore pay attention to a good connection to the top sights and public transport. Istanbul is also a demanding city, a comfortable room will be essential for rest between adventurous days. Take a look at the guide about the best places to stay in Istanbul and the best-rated hotels in Istanbul.
For first-time visitors, the historical sights, like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Galata Tower, Grand Bazaar, and Maiden’s Tower as well as popular districts like Taksim, Balat, Galata, Ortaköy, and Sultanahmet should be high on the list. Read more about the top things to do during your trip to Istanbul.
Public transport and transportation in Istanbul
- Tram
- Metro
- Ferry
- Marmaray
- Airport Shuttle
- Bus
- Metrobus
- Private Transfer
- Cab/taxi
Please note that you will need Turkish currency or a pre-paid Istanbul card for many means of transportation. Learn more about public transportation, how to use it, and everything about airport transfers!