Get around the city:
1.
Tram: Purchase tokens from the machines at the stations. 2 TL each. All transits are included (counted as single journey).
2.
Bus: İETT city public buses accept tokens, while private buses (green and white) only take Lira.
3.
Taxi: Always ask for a price quote before you hop on.
4.
Metro: Uses tokens.
5.
Walking: Istanbul is a fantastic city to explore by foot, however, prepare good walking shoes as some of the streets are cobbled and some are slopes. Get a map of the city from your hostel.
Savings:
1. Purchase a "
museum pass" (valid 3/5 days ) if you are interested in museums. It allows you to skip queues.
2. An "
Istanbulkart" can save you a lot of money if you are planning to stay more than 3 days and you know you are using a lot of public transit. It is an electronic refillable card used on buses, trains, and ferries!Several people can share 1 card.
Accommodation:
Book a hotel in the
Sultanahmet district.
Recommendations:
Cordial House (I find it cozy and welcoming)
OR If you have more than 1 travel buddies, you can
save more by renting an apartment on
Roomorama,
Stayful,
Airbnb,
Travelpony. (click on the orange link, sign up to get discounts and free nights.)
Culture:
1.
Dress modestly when visiting religious establishments. Prepare headscarves if you are visiting mosque.
2. Wash hands and remove shoes before
entering a mosque.
3. Haggle for the best price in Bazaar. However, do not overdo it.
See:
Topkapi Palace
Hagia Sophia
Sultanahment Mosque (Blue Mosque)
Obelisk of III. Tutmosis
Basilica Cistern
Grand Bazaar
Spice Bazaar
Taksim Square
Dolmabahce palace
Süleymaniye Mosque
Galata Tower
Must Do:
1. Enjoy a Bosphorus cruise.
2. Visit a Hamams.
3. Watch the Whirling Dervishes performance at the Galata Mevlevi Lodge.
4. Walk the Walls of Constantinople.
5. Haggle in Grand Bazaar.
6. Buy a Turkish Ice cream. Experience the fun.
Must Eat:
1.
Balık ekmek at Eminonu pier.
2.
Baclavas and turkish delight at Hafiz Mustafa.
3.
Kebab at Sultanahmet Buhara Kebab House.
Thank You for Reading!
This post is based on my honest opinion and personal experience.
If you have more suggestions/ updates, feel free to share with us by commenting below!