Istanbul is a transcontinental city located in northwestern Turkey on the Bosphorus strait, between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. Founded as Byzantium around 660 BC on the Sarayburnu promontory, Istanbul grew to become one of history's most significant cities. Istanbul is an enthralling city built on two continents and separated by the Bosphorus Strait. This is one of the world's greatest cities, combining a modern western city with a traditional eastern city; it's a melting pot of many civilisations and people.

When to visit Istanbul, Turkey?

March to May, or October to November, are excellent months to visit Istanbul. During these months, the major tourist attractions and other beautiful sites are virtually empty, especially on weekdays. You will have a better chance of finding better deals on hotels and, of course, airfare tickets; however, keep in mind that March and April have many rainy days. Just make sure to bring rain gear, especially waterproof shoes and a jacket. Daytime temperatures range between 12 and 25 degrees Celsius, with occasional briefs of rain.

Good to know about Istanbul, Turkey

Exchange Currency

If you need to exchange money in Istanbul, it is best to do so in the Grand Bazaar or some exchange offices around Taksim, rather than at the airport. At the airport, you can exchange a small amount of money to get yourself from the airport to the city centre.

Transportation

In Istanbul, there are numerous modes of transportation that connect the city's beautiful attractions. You have to purchase an IstanbulKart from a yellow machine that can be found in any Metro, Tram, or Ferry station. If you want to move around Istanbul, it is strongly advisable that you take public transportation by BiTaksi App or Uber online.

Marmaray

This is a train that travels beneath the Bosphorus. This train also travels from one continent to another and is very fast. Sirkeci station is the one closest to the tourist area. 

Ferry

This mode of transportation provides better views and allows you to see more of the city. There are many ferry terminals in Istanbul, but the closest to the most popular tourist areas, such as Sultanahmet, are Eminonu, Kabatas, and Besiktas. 

Metro

There are numerous metro stations in Istanbul, but the line M2 on the European side is the most popular among tourists. This mode of transportation is located very close to Eminonu, and the metro station is known as Halic. 

Istanbul Airport

Once you reach the airport of Istanbul, you can then use the options below for transportation to the Istanbul city centre:

Taxi

Taxis are by far the most convenient and secure mode of transportation from Istanbul New Airport. Depending on traffic, it takes 45 minutes to 1 hour to get to the city centre. Furthermore, taxis are easily identifiable because they are either black "E" taxis, blue "D" taxis, or orange "C" taxis. 

Bus

The bus routes are operated by three separate companies: Seyahat (intercity transportation), Havaist, and IETT. The bus has a lot of luggage space. The H2 Line to işli-Mecidiyeköyis Station is the best way to reach the city centre (Taksim Square). From there, take the M2 metro line to Taksim Square. 

Best Foods To Try In Istanbul, Turkey

Asure

This is a traditional Turkish dessert. This dessert is made up of dried fruits, legumes, juice, fruits, and sugar. This dessert is also associated with the Ashura tradition, which is celebrated just a few days before Ramadan and falls during the Muharram month. This dessert is far more than just a desert, it represents sharing, love, and, most importantly, togetherness.

Firin Kebab

The dish is based on firin (oven) kebabs roasted with grizzly oregano, potatoes, and onions. This is a traditional Turkish dish that is especially popular in Bayram. The dish is stunning, and once you've tried it, you'll want more because the meat is juicy and tasty, as well as the aroma of the meat. The dish is accompanied by bread and onions.

Buryan Kebap

The dish is made of lamb meat that has been cooked underground for three hours. Smoky, juicy, and so tender. The dish is prepared 2-3 metres underground, and covered in mud. For your enjoyment, the dish is served with flatbread. This dish will most certainly leave you blown away.

Best Attractions in Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul Sea Life

Turkey's first giant aquarium, located in the new Forum, opened in 2009. The aquarium is divided into zones, including Tropical Reef, Ocean Cave, Clownfish Alley, Rainforest, Stingray Bay, and includes an 83-metre glass tunnel with dozens of shark species swimming all around making it more fun.

Galata Tower

Galata Tower is one of Istanbul's symbols, located on a hill with some of the best views of the city. Until the construction of Beyazit Tower in 1749, Galata Tower was Istanbul's tallest building. During the Ottoman Sultan period, Galata Tower served as a jail, observatory, and watch tower. Galata Tower reopened to the public in 1960 after restoration, and now serves as a 360-degree viewing platform of Istanbul.

Blue Mosque

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque is one of Istanbul's most well-known landmarks, and a visit to the city would be incomplete unless you saw it. This magnificent mosque has five main domes and six slender minarets, and its interior has over 20.000 handmade blue tiles.

Topkapi Palace

The Ottoman Sultan walked the halls of Topkapi Palace for over 400 years, and it was there that social events and administrative policies shaped Turkish civilization. It was declared a museum in 1924 and features magnificent architecture, manicured courtyards, and extensive collections of weaponry, porcelain, art, and fabrics.

Bosphorus Cruise

A scenic boat ride along the Bosphorus Strait allows visitors to see both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul. Sail past historic landmarks like Galata Tower and the Dolmabahce Palace, as well as the Bosphorus Bridge, which connects Asia and Europe. The cruise is the most effective way to experience both sides of this fascinating and diverse city.