Istanbul is unlike anywhere else. And even if you’re a well-traveled person, you can never quite be ready for the sensory overload the Turkish capital offers you. This massive city straddles the line between Europe and Asia, and it has been a meeting point of different cultures and empires for centuries. Fascinating history, incredible architecture, lively culture, and excellent food are everywhere in the endless streets of this metropolis. With all that going on, it’s easy to be overwhelmed.
However, with a little preparation, your first time in Istanbul can be a pleasant and memorable vacation. Drop off your bags at an Istanbul luggage storage, and you’ll have taken an important first step in making things easier on yourself.
Here are some things to keep in mind while visiting. And above all, remember to have fun in this fascinating town.
Don’t Try To Do Too Much
Istanbul is a huge city with an endless amount of things to see and do. It would be impossible to try to do everything in one trip, so don’t even try. Once you’re here, wander around and explore the different neighborhoods.
You’ll quickly get a feel for which areas you like best and can plan accordingly for future visits. Trying to do too much in one trip will just leave you feeling exhausted and stressed out.
Avoid Visiting in the Height of Summer
The heat in Istanbul during the summer can be unbearable. If you’re visiting between June and August, be sure to pack light, loose-fitting clothes and plenty of sunscreen.
It’s also a good idea to have a game plan for dealing with the heat. If you’re not used to it, spending hours walking around in the sun can be tough. Perhaps plan to do some sightseeing in the morning and take a break in the afternoon when it’s hottest. Or, visit indoor attractions like museums or mosques.
Be Careful of the Traffic
The streets of Istanbul are chaotic, and the traffic can be daunting. If you’re not used to driving in such conditions, it’s best to steer clear altogether. Instead, take public transportation or hail a taxi.
The good news is that once you’re out of the car, getting around on foot is relatively easy. The city is very pedestrian-friendly, and you’ll quickly get a feel for the layout.
Bargain, Bargain, Bargain
In Istanbul, it’s expected that you’ll bargain for just about everything. This includes souvenirs, taxis, and even some restaurant meals.
If you’re not used to bargaining, it can be a bit intimidating at first. But don’t worry, it’s all part of the fun. And remember, the worst that can happen is you end up paying a little more than you wanted to.
Take Advantage of the Istanbulkart
The Istanbulkart is a city-wide public transportation card that can be used on buses, trams, metro, and ferries. It’s an easy and affordable way to get around, and it can be purchased at any major transit station.
If you’re planning on doing a lot of sightseeing, the Istanbulkart is definitely worth the investment.
Have Cash on Hand
While it’s possible to pay for some things with a credit card, Istanbul is largely a cash-based economy. This is especially true when it comes to bargaining and buying souvenirs.
Be sure to have plenty of Turkish Lira on hand, and always keep small bills handy. That way, you won’t get stuck in a situation where you can’t pay for something because you don’t have the right change. This is especially true given that the price of anything is almost always negotiable in Istanbul.
Watch Out for Scams
Istanbul is full of scammers, and they can be quite convincing. The most common scams involve people posing as police officers or government officials. They’ll approach you and ask to see your passport or money.
If someone asks to see your passport or money, be very wary. Only give it to them if they can produce proper identification. If they can’t, just walk away.
Other common scams include people offering to exchange money for you at a better rate than what you’ll get at the bank. Or, someone might offer to help you buy tickets to a popular attraction. Once you’re in their office or shop, they’ll try to charge you an exorbitant fee.
The best way to avoid getting scammed is to be aware of the most common tricks and to be on your guard. If something feels off, it probably is.
Try New Things
Istanbul is a city with a rich culture and history, and there’s much to explore. Soak up as much of it as you can by trying new things.
Visit the different neighborhoods, try the local cuisine, and shop at the markets. And be sure to strike up conversations with the people you meet. You’ll quickly find that the locals are friendly and more than happy to share their city with you.
Get a Prepaid SIM Card
If you’re planning on spending extended time in Istanbul, it’s a good idea to get a prepaid SIM card. This will give you access to data and minutes at a fraction of the cost of what you would pay back home.
And since staying connected is important, having a SIM card will allow you to stay in touch with family and friends, navigate the city, and even call a taxi if need be.
Be Aware of Prayer Time and Religious Holidays
Istanbul is a Muslim city, and prayer time is taken very seriously. The call to prayer happens five times a day, and it can be quite disruptive if you’re not used to it.
During the month of Ramadan, things can get even more hectic. Business hours are shortened, and many restaurants and cafes are closed during the day.
If you’re visiting during Ramadan, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. And if you’re not Muslim, be aware that you may not be able to eat or drink in public during the day.
Learn a Few Words of Turkish
While most people in Istanbul speak English, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to learn a few words of Turkish.
Not only will this help you get around, but it will also endear you to the locals. So before you visit, take some time to learn how to say basic phrases like hello, thank you, and where is the bathroom?
Have fun!
Istanbul is a vibrant and culturally rich city, and there’s much to keep you entertained. By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip and have an unforgettable experience. Leave the bags behind and get ready to explore this sometimes chaotic but always beautiful city for yourself.
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