How to get to the City Centre

To get from Istanbul Airport to the city centre, you can take a taxi, airport shuttle, or the Havaist bus service, which provides direct routes to key areas like Taksim. For a more economical option, the city operates the Istanbul public bus services, though they might take longer due to frequent stops.

Public transportation

Istanbul boasts a comprehensive public transportation network including buses, metro, trams, and ferries. Tourists can purchase an Istanbulkart, a reloadable card that offers discounted fares on all public transport modes and is widely available at ticket machines and kiosks.

When visiting Istanbul, it's wise to carry a map or have a navigation app on your phone, as the city's layout can be confusing. Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques, and always haggle at markets for the best prices. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can enhance your experience.

Istanbul is generally safe, but tourists should be cautious of pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas. It's advisable to keep your belongings secure and stay vigilant. In case of emergencies, dial 112 for medical aid and 155 for police assistance.

Local customs and etiquette

When greeting someone in Istanbul, a friendly handshake is common, and saying 'Merhaba' means 'hello.' It's customary to remove shoes before entering a home, and tipping around 10% is appreciated in restaurants. Modest attire is encouraged in religious and family settings to respect local customs.

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Istanbul - Weather

Average monthly temperature & precipitation

March
Temperature 10°C
Precipitation 38%
April
Temperature 15°C
Precipitation 30%
May
Temperature 16°C
Precipitation 29%
June
Temperature 24°C
Precipitation 30%
July
Temperature 26°C
Precipitation 19%
August
Temperature 26°C
Precipitation 16%
September
Temperature 25°C
Precipitation 26%
October
Temperature 18°C
Precipitation 25%
November
Temperature 16°C
Precipitation 33%
December
Temperature 10°C
Precipitation 45%
January
Temperature 8°C
Precipitation 45%
February
Temperature 9°C
Precipitation 39%

Discover Istanbul

About the city

Istanbul is a city rich in history and culture, having served as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Today, it's Turkey's economic, cultural, and historic center. Tourists marvel at the city's mixture of ancient and modern architecture, where landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque stand alongside bustling markets and new skyscrapers. The city is also renowned for its vibrant arts scene, culinary delights, and bustling nightlife.

Top attractions

No visit to Istanbul is complete without exploring its iconic attractions. The Hagia Sophia, once a church and then a mosque, now a museum, is a testament to Istanbul's rich past. The Topkapi Palace, with its expansive gardens and lavish decor, offers a glimpse into the life of Ottoman sultans. The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar provide an unforgettable sensory experience with their myriad of colors, aromas, and bustling crowds. Don’t miss a ferry ride on the Bosphorus, where you can see both the European and Asian sides of the city.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Istanbul is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are thinner. Summers can be hot and humid, with July and August being the peak tourist months, often leading to high prices and crowded attractions. Winters are colder with occasional snowfall, but this is also the perfect time for those looking to experience the city’s cozy cafes and indoor attractions with fewer tourists. Consider visiting during the Istanbul Tulip Festival in April for a spectacle of vibrant blooms across the city.

Frequently asked questions

Read some of the most frequently asked questions about flights to Istanbul

: To get from Istanbul Airport to the city centre, you can take a taxi, airport shuttle, or the Havaist bus service, which provides direct routes to key areas like Taksim. For a more economical option, the city operates the Istanbul public bus services, though they might take longer due to frequent stops.
: Istanbul boasts a comprehensive public transportation network including buses, metro, trams, and ferries. Tourists can purchase an Istanbulkart, a reloadable card that offers discounted fares on all public transport modes and is widely available at ticket machines and kiosks.
: When visiting Istanbul, it's wise to carry a map or have a navigation app on your phone, as the city's layout can be confusing. Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques, and always haggle at markets for the best prices. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can enhance your experience.
: Istanbul is generally safe, but tourists should be cautious of pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas. It's advisable to keep your belongings secure and stay vigilant. In case of emergencies, dial 112 for medical aid and 155 for police assistance.
: When greeting someone in Istanbul, a friendly handshake is common, and saying 'Merhaba' means 'hello.' It's customary to remove shoes before entering a home, and tipping around 10% is appreciated in restaurants. Modest attire is encouraged in religious and family settings to respect local customs.

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Istanbul - Weather

Average monthly temperature & precipitation

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

January

February

Discover Istanbul

About the city

Top attractions

Best time to visit

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