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Plan Your Trip to Istanbul: Best of Istanbul Tourism

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Istanbul, Türkiye

Istanbul is a city that mixes old and new, and the best way to explore it is through its mahalles (neighbourhoods). Get your history fix in Beyoğlu—it’s chock-full of 19th-century European elegance—or head to Sultanahmet and see the holy sites. Then, make your way to Nişantaşı for high-end shopping and trendy restaurants, or pop into a bar or cafe in edgy Kadıköy. That’s just the start—we’ve got more ideas below.
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Essential Istanbul

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Travel Advice

How to do Istanbul in 3 days

Incredible mosques, Turkish breakfasts, and relaxing hammams
Read on

How to shop in Istanbul, from the extravagant to the extraordinary

I've browsed, haggled, and drained my bank account while shopping on almost every continent. While the chill seaside markets of Costa Rica and sprawling mega-malls of Bangkok have a special place in my shopaholic's heart, Istanbul, with its fabulous fusion of high-brow and rare goods, calls me back every time. Straddling Europe and Asia, this city is full of epic finds and extraordinary deals.
Elizabeth Lavis, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Arasta Bazaar
    893
    If you love authentic, silky, roomy pashminas as much as I do, Arasta Bazaar is a fab stop. This is a smaller but substantial bazaar near Sultanahmet Square. It's easy to pop by before or after touring the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia. I picked up a sky-blue pashmina trimmed with gold and some loose tea on my last wander through Arasta, but you can also find jewellery and every colour of plush Turkish towels.
  • Zorlu Center
    508
    Get your Gucci fix and your duty-free tax deduction at Zorlu Centre, one of Istanbul's most luxurious shopping centres with fancy shops, tasty food, and stunning architecture. It's a multi-use complex, just over 20 minutes away from the popular Eminonu district (where I always stay) by metro. I love this spot because you have a galaxy of high-end options like Vuitton, Tiffany, and Dior, but there's also a huge Zara.
  • Istinye Park
    723
    I love Istinye Park because it mixes modernity and an authentic Turkish bazaar vibe with many airy, open spaces where you can chill, enjoy a Turkish coffee, and give your feet a break. High-end brands are king at Istinye, and it's a great place to get cosmetics and perfumes. My guilty pleasure is visiting the Rainforest Cafe on the first floor for a nostalgic hit and some post-shopping comfort food.
  • Mahmut Pasha Bazaar
    15
    Mahmut Pasha Bazaar is a superb option if you're in the mood to haggle and want the hustle and bustle of a bazaar without the total overwhelm. A modest 256 shops, this spot sits close to Eminonu and is packed with little cafes selling baklava, textile shops, and plenty of custom-made bath and plumbing stores. I've scored several gorgeous items over the years, including a button-down silk flowered dress that remains one of my faves.
  • Misir Carsisi (Spice Market)
    4,195
    Also known as the "Egyptian Bazaar," Misir Carsisi is the top place in Istanbul for Turkish ice cream and loose spices. You'll find loose teas, bright baskets of golden saffron, smoked paprika, and fragrant dried bay leaves. They also sell some of the cheapest and most authentic Turkish Delight here. The spices come in tiny bags, so I like to shop with a larger tote that I am okay with getting a little dirty.
  • Olivium Outlet Center
    286
    I love the Olivium Outlet Centre for two reasons: it's convenient to get to by train, and you can find designer goods at outlet prices. It's the place to stock up on sportswear and sneakers, and I've seen good deals at both the Nike and Adidas outlets, especially when they're rolling out new seasonal fare. This mall runs regular sales that they advertise on social media, and it's open every day until 10 p.m.
  • Kanyon Shopping Mall
    364
    Kanyon Shopping Centre is one of the most stunning shopping complexes I've ever seen, with wide, well-lit corridors and a convex ceiling that perfectly marries the indoor and outdoor spaces. If you appreciate understated elegance, Kanyon hits those notes. There are upscale clothing shops, many dining options, and entertainment, but the top reason I visit Kanyon is for cosmetics. You'll find a mix of budget-friendly and top-of-the-line brands like NARS, Watsons, and Yves Rocher.
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Istanbul travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Hotel Availability and Proximity

Some travelers have noted the Yotel as the only hotel directly adjacent to Istanbul Airport, specifically mentioning its airside location. However, the Radisson in Odayeri was also suggested as a nearby option, located in a more scenic setting within a forest.

Alternative Nearby Areas

For those looking for accommodations a bit further from the airport but still accessible, the town of Arnavutköy was mentioned as having nearby hotels. This area seems to provide a small-town feel near the airport and might offer some local cafes and shops.

Online Resources

Travelers have recommended using specific hotel search links to find accommodations near Istanbul Airport, which provide a variety of options based on proximity and other preferences. These links help in comparing prices and reading traveler reviews to make informed decisions.

General Advice

It was generally advised that staying in central Istanbul areas like Taksim could provide more amenities and attractions, especially for longer layovers, with efficient airport shuttle connections available.

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Public Transport

According to forum posts, Istanbul offers a comprehensive public transport system including buses, trams, ferries, and the metro, accessible with an Istanbulkart. Travelers have highlighted the convenience and affordability of using Istanbulkart, which can be reloaded at various kiosks or machines across the city.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

Some travelers mentioned that taxis are readily available but can be expensive. It's noted that Istanbul also supports ride-hailing services like BiTaksi, which is preferred by locals over Uber.

Alternative Transport

For scenic routes, many users recommend the ferry service, especially at sunset, as it provides beautiful views at a lower cost compared to other options. Additionally, there are mentions of using ferries to travel between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.

Safety and Accessibility

Forum posts generally regard Istanbul as safe for travelers using public transportation, even at night, with the Turkish people being described as welcoming and caring.

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Recommended Restaurants

According to forum posts, some travelers have called out specific restaurants in Istanbul for their ambiance and food quality. Aheste and Asitane are two recommended options, providing a cozy and classy dining experience with a focus on vegetarian, seafood, and meat dishes. Asitane is noted for its appetizers and Turkish wine or beer offerings.

Local Dining Recommendations

For those seeking authentic Turkish cuisine, forum users suggest exploring areas like Taksim/Beyoglu, where locals frequently dine. Restaurants on Divanyolu street towards Eminonu and around Istiklal Caddesi come highly recommended for their vibrant atmosphere and quality food. Sultanahmet Köftecisi and Albura Kathisma are specific spots mentioned for good value and authentic Turkish dishes.

Michelin Star Experience

For a fine dining experience, travelers have mentioned Nicole at the rooftop of Tom Tom Suites Hotel, which is a Michelin Star restaurant known for its exquisite menu and views.

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City Exploration

Some travelers indicated that an Istanbul layover provides an excellent opportunity to visit key attractions like Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace if the layover is during the day. Evening layovers are perfect for experiencing the nightlife in Taksim and walking down Istiklal Street.

Rest and Refresh

For those unable to leave the airport, options include resting in the Nap Zones or booking a room at Yotel Hotel Airside. Additionally, lounges such as the IGA Lounge (accessible for a fee or with Priority Pass) offer relaxation and dining options.

Shopping and Dining

The airport offers an extensive duty-free shopping area and a variety of restaurants and fast food places where travelers can spend their time and enjoy a meal.

Transportation Advice

Travelers are advised to account for travel time to and from the city center, roughly estimating a four-hour round trip. This allows for efficient planning to maximize the layover experience without missing subsequent flights.

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Family-Friendly Accommodation Options

According to forum posts, some travelers recommend Airbnb as a good choice for families visiting Istanbul. This platform allows renting whole apartments, ideal for accommodating families by providing kitchen facilities and separate living areas. Families can book properties in areas like Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Karakoy, or Galata, which are close to major tourist landmarks and historical sites.

Hotel Recommendations

Forum users have suggested various hotels suitable for families in Istanbul. The Four Seasons Sultanahmet is highlighted for its central location, ideal for accessing the city's main attractions. Additionally, the Sirkeci Mansion is noted for its family-friendly amenities, including a heated pool and rooms with sufficient space for families. The Crowne Plaza Istanbul Florya is mentioned as a city resort with a large pool and outdoor spaces, although it is not a traditional resort.

Considerations for Staying in Hotels

Travelers have called out that while Istanbul offers many hotels that can accommodate families, it's crucial to confirm the type of room and amenities provided. Family rooms or suites, which might include separate bedrooms and additional facilities like babysitting services, are recommended to ensure comfort for both adults and children.

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Official Websites for Tickets

For purchasing tickets to major Istanbul attractions like Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace, travelers have recommended using the official government website, muze.gov.tr. This site is noted for its reliability and avoidance of additional fees that other unofficial sites might charge.

Museum Pass Availability

According to forum posts, the Istanbul Museum Pass, which covers multiple attractions, can be bought online from the same official site or at various selling points throughout Istanbul, including kiosks near major attractions in the Sultanahmet area. This pass is particularly useful for visitors planning to explore several museums and historical sites.

Physical Purchase Points

For some attractions like Dolmabahçe Palace, tickets are only available at the venue. Travelers have suggested visiting early in the morning to purchase tickets from the booth to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.

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Visa Requirement Overview

According to forum posts, U.S. citizens need an e-visa to enter Turkey, including Istanbul. The e-visa can be obtained online and costs $50 for U.S. passport holders. It is recommended to use the official Turkish e-visa website to avoid issues.

Additional Documentation

Some travelers mentioned that a traveler health entry form must be filled out within 72 hours prior to arrival in Turkey, which also provides a HES code necessary for health tracking within the country.

Transit Visa Information

For travelers in transit through Istanbul, forum users noted that if you stay airside and do not pass through passport control, no visa is required. However, if you need to pass through passport control, for instance, to transfer luggage between two separate flights, an e-visa is required.

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Provider Options

According to forum posts, the main SIM card providers in Istanbul for travelers are Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom. These providers offer various packages tailored for tourists, available at stores throughout the city and at the airport.

Package Details

Some travelers mentioned specific deals such as Turkcell and Vodafone offering a tourist SIM card that includes 20 GB of data, calls, and text, costing between 200-300 TL. Turk Telekom was noted for offering a 7-day SIM card with 2 GB for 120 TL, which could be a reasonable option for short stays.

Purchase Locations

Travelers have called out that SIM cards can be purchased at Istanbul Airport, though prices there are typically higher than in the city. It's recommended to buy SIM cards from local shops in Istanbul where better deals might be available.

Additional Tips

For many users, buying a SIM card in the city rather than the airport is advised to save money. Also, always carry your passport as it's required for purchasing and registering a SIM card in Turkey.

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Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.