Discovering Istanbul: A First Time Visitor's Guide

Hello Travelers! Welcome to Istanbul

Once the heart of Byzantium, later known as Constantinople, and now the vibrant Istanbul, this city has been the epicenter of four grand empires: Roman, Byzantine, Latin, and Ottoman. This rich past is reflected in its eclectic architecture, diverse culture, and unique geographical position bridging Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait.

Every corner tells a story. The majestic Hagia Sophia stands as a symbol of Istanbul’s layered history, having served as a church, a mosque, and now a museum. Nearby, the grandeur of the Topkapi Palace whisks you away to the days of Ottoman sultans. The city’s streets resonate with a symphony of sounds: from the melodic Islamic call to prayer to the distant toll of church bells, encapsulating its multicultural legacy.

But Istanbul isn't just about its glorious past. It's a dynamic metropolis where centuries old mosques coexist with contemporary art galleries and where traditional tea gardens sit alongside hip, modern cafes. This city offers a culinary journey as diverse as its heritage, where you can taste a blend of Central Asian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan flavors in its rich cuisine.

So, dear travelers, prepare to embark on a journey through time and culture in Istanbul, a city that promises an adventure for every visitor and leaves a lasting impression on all who wander its enchanting streets.

PRE-BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION

When planning your visit to Istanbul, it's important to note that the popular hotel platform Booking.com is not available in Türkiye. For those who typically use this service, it's advisable to complete your accommodation search and bookings prior to your arrival. Alternatively, you can use a VPN to access the platform from within the country.

Pre-booking your stay is especially crucial during peak travel seasons. Popular destinations in Istanbul can quickly become fully booked, and prices tend to increase significantly for last-minute reservations. To avoid this, plan ahead and secure your accommodation early.

On my recent trip, I chose to stay in the historic district of Galata. Known for its picturesque streets and an eclectic mix of old and new, Galata offered an authentic taste of Istanbul's vibrant culture. The area boasts excellent accessibility to various attractions and is a haven for food lovers and café enthusiasts. The neighborhood is dotted with a range of fantastic cafes and restaurants, each offering a unique glimpse into the local cuisine and lifestyle.

USE AN APP FOR TAXIS IN ISTANBUL

The city boasts a well organized cab system, offering 3 types of taxi services at varying price points, catering to different preferences and budgets.

1. Yellow Taxis: (BiTaksi app) These are the standard taxis and the most commonly seen on Istanbul's streets. They offer the lowest fares, charging 6.3 TL per kilometer, with an initial switch-on fee of 9.8 TL. Yellow taxis are an economical option for getting around the city.

2. Turquoise Taxis: Representing a premium service, turquoise taxis are a step up from the standard yellow cabs. They charge about 20% more than yellow taxis, offering a slightly more upscale service for those willing to pay a bit extra.

3. Black Taxis: At the top of the taxi service hierarchy are the black taxis. These are luxury vehicles, often chosen for a more comfortable and stylish ride. They are the most expensive option, costing twice as much as yellow taxis.

All taxis in Istanbul are metered, which generally makes them safe and reliable for tourists to hail directly off the street. However, as with any major city, there are instances of scams, so many people including locals prefer using taxi apps for added security and convenience.

Uber in Istanbul: After overcoming legal challenges, Uber made a comeback in Turkey in 2021. My personal experiences with Uber in Istanbul have been overwhelmingly positive.

Uber alternatives include BiTaksi and Itaksi. The former has POS contactless payment, which is great for paying by card.

COMFORTABLE SHOES IS A MUST

Istanbul, often referred as the 'City of Seven Hills', mirrors ancient Rome in its hilly layout, presenting a landscape filled with steep streets and challenging staircases. Let me tell you walking up those hills it's a free workout you don't need to hit the gym.

This unique topography boasts charming sloped houses in districts like Balat and offers breathtaking views from higher elevations. Comfortable shoes and patience are key when exploring Istanbul on foot due to its hilly nature.

DRESS MODESTLY TO BLEND IN

Istanbul, a vibrant metropolis, generally embraces a liberal dress code. However, it's advisable to dress modestly to blend comfortably with the local crowd. Women, in particular, should consider avoiding overly revealing clothing such as deep necklines, sheer fabrics, and extremely short skirts or shorts.

The city exhibits a blend of cultures, and this is reflected in the varying dress norms between its European and Asian sides. The Asian side, along with areas further east in Turkey, tends to be more conservative, with a higher prevalence of modest attire and hijabs.

When visiting mosques, respectful attire is essential. Both men and women should cover their arms and legs - men up to the elbow and down to the ankles, and women up to the wrist and down to the ankles. Women are also required to cover their hair, and most mosques provide head covers for purchase.

Remember to remove your shoes before entering any mosque. For convenience, wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Carrying a pair of ankle socks in your bag is a good idea if you prefer not to go barefoot, as some mosques may not provide plastic bags for shoes.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO NEGOTIATE AT THE BAZAAR

In Istanbul, bargaining is not merely a way to secure a good deal; it's a cultural dance, a form of communication that goes beyond languages and currencies. Here, the price tags attached to the myriad of goods, from intricately woven carpets to handcrafted jewelry, are merely the starting point of a negotiation that is expected, respected, and, indeed, part of the fun. The Grand Bazaar, with its kaleidoscope of colors and ceaseless energy, might seem daunting to the uninitiated. This historic market, primarily catering to tourists, often marks its goods with substantial price tags. But fear not; armed with a smile and a polite "Ne kadar?" (How much?), you're ready to embark on the bargaining journey. Aiming for a 35-50% discount on the initial price is a good rule of thumb, especially if you're purchasing multiple items or indulging in a little bulk buying.

While the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are must-see destinations, Istanbul's true shopping spirit thrives in its local and street markets. Each neighborhood boasts its own market day, offering everything from fresh produce to vintage finds. These markets, less frequented by tourists, offer a more authentic and potentially less expensive shopping experience. The food and flea markets in Karakoy, Ortakoy, Uskudar, and Besiktas are particularly noteworthy, each with its own charm and array of goods.

Timing is Everything

If you do find yourself drawn to the historic allure of the Grand Bazaar or other similar markets, timing your visit can make all the difference. Mid-morning is the sweet spot; vendors are likely to have made a few sales already, meeting their daily targets and, consequently, may be more inclined to offer you a better deal. Shopping Tips:

1. Start Friendly: Approach vendors with a warm smile and a genuine interest in their goods. This can set a positive tone for the negotiation.

2. Know the Value: Familiarize yourself with the average prices of items you're interested in. This knowledge can be a powerful tool in bargaining.

3. Be Prepared to Walk Away: Sometimes, the willingness to walk away can result in the vendor calling you back with a better offer.

4. Venture Off the Tourist Trail: Exploring markets outside the main tourist areas can lead to more genuine interactions and fair prices.

5. Enjoy the Process: Remember, bargaining in Istanbul is not just about getting a good deal; it's about the experience, the interaction, and the story you'll tell.

Shopping in Istanbul is an adventure that transcends the mere acquisition of goods. It's an opportunity to connect with locals, to learn the art of negotiation. Let your senses guide you, embrace the art of haggling, and, above all, enjoy every moment of your Istanbul shopping saga.

DON’T FALL FOR THE ‘SHOE CLEANER SCAM’

On a bright morning stroll through the charming alleyways of Galata, an unexpected sound caught my attention.. a wooden shoe brush clattering against the ancient cobblestones. In a split second, I realized what was happening; it was one of those street scams you hear about, where someone 'accidentally' drops something, hoping a well intentioned tourist might pick it up and get roped into a situation. Not with me honey! I was ready.

With a quick chuckle and without missing a beat, I stepped right past the brush, not giving the scam the time of day. It was a little victory for me, knowing I had dodged a classic tourist trap with ease.

So here's a friendly heads up: keep your wits about you, especially in areas buzzing with tourists. You'd be surprised how often these clever ruses pop up, particularly in bustling tourist spots. However, a dash of foresight and staying alert can help you navigate around these pitfalls smoothly, allowing your journey to unfold seamlessly with an interesting anecdote in your pocket.

EMBRACE CAT CULTURE

Istanbul is a special city filled with lots of cats. You can find nearly a million cats and kittens wandering around the streets. Every cafe feels like a cat cafe because there's always a cat or two hanging around. Once, while I was drinking Turkish tea at a cafe, a fluffy white cat came and napped right next to me. It was so cute!

People in Istanbul don't think of these cats as strays. Instead, they treat them like pets that belong to the whole community. Everyone helps to take care of them, giving them food and love. The cats are pretty chill and usually do their own thing without bothering anyone.

The love for cats in Istanbul started a long time ago, back in the days of the Ottoman Empire. Cats were important because they kept mice and pests away. But they also became a lucky symbol for the city. Now, cats are a big part of what makes Istanbul special.

It's really nice to see how everyone in the city takes care of the cats and makes sure they're safe. There are rules to protect them, so they can live happily without being caught or hurt. It's heartwarming to see so much kindness towards these animals in Istanbul.

SOLO IN SULTAN´S CITY DODGING CUPID'S ARROWS ON EVERY CORNER

Traveling to Turkey as a single lady turned out to be quite the adventure for me! It seemed like no matter where I went, I found myself being approached by someone curious about where I was from, showing a keen interest in striking up a friendship. At first, I wondered if it was just because I was a tourist, or perhaps they found me attractive, or they were naturally friendly, or just eyeing a shortcut to Europe yes the "green card" situation "90 days fiance".

The situation reached a comedic peak when someone was ready to walk down the aisle right then and there! . For all the single ladies out there, Turkey delights might just be your unexpected match making destination.

I had to tell people i had a husband and 4 kids waiting for me back home a little white lie to ease the relentless friend making machine. Thankfully, everyone I encountered was friendly rather than pushy, and I've gotten quite adept at navigating these interactions with a mix of humor and grace. However, it's worth noting that not everyone might find this level of attention comfortable.

So, a heads up to fellow travelers: be prepared for a lot of friendly faces in Turkey, all eager to get to know you. It's a vibrant, warm hearted place, but it sure keeps you on your toes!