Quick Guide: Istanbul, Turkey

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.)

Read more: 10 Golden rule to score a FREE hotel stay

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

Read more: 5 days in Istanbul (Itinerary Sharing)

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. 

Read more: 15 FREE things to do in Istanbul

Must Eat:  

1. Balık ekmek at Eminonu pier.
2. Baclavas and turkish delight at Hafiz Mustafa.
3. Kebab at Sultanahmet Buhara Kebab House.

Read more: What to eat in Istanbul (15 MUST EATS)

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!