Are you ready for your Istanbul trip? Here are some useful highlights and guidelines:
- If you will visit the city with your family or with a small group, we advise you to rent a car or van. You can also ask for a driver. Please, note that the traffic is really busy in Istanbul. Of course, there are various public transportation options as well. You need to buy an Istanbul Card for public transport. You can fill the card on the automatic machines located on Metro and Metrobus stations.
- Accommodation is an important decision for Istanbul travellers. There are many luxurious, five-star and also boutique hotels in Taksim, Beyoğlu, Şişli, Levent and Elmadağ. These are on the European Side. Also, on the Asian side there are alternatives. You can also stay in apart at the same areas. These spots are very central and close to everywhere in the city.
- You can use your credit card while shopping almost in every point, but still you’ll need cash. Please convert your money to Turkish lira. There are dozens of exchange offices around, you’ll see.
- If you want to discover the city deeply, a professional tour guide is highly recommended. He can assist you and inform you about the historical and cultural heritage of the city. You must live this authentic experience perfectly.
- Be sure that there many unmissable experiences waiting for you in Istanbul like traditional Turkish hammams (Kılıç Ali Paşa Hammam is recommended), amazing mosques, Galata Tower, Bosphorus Tour, Golden Horn, Hagia Sophia, Bassilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar etc.
- Like all travellers, have a good city map, which also includes latest shopping spots, restaurants and cafes. If you prefer to stay at a hotel, ask the reception to provide to you an Istanbul Guide.
- When you are in Istanbul, you will shop because there are wonderful shopping malls in the city. Cevahir, Zorlu, Kanyon, Metrocity, Özdilek, Istinye Park are the best malls of the city. Please remember to visit also the outlet malls like Viaport, Olivium and Starcity. If you have kids, all of these malls include playing areas. And note that you can shop tax-free at the stores having the sign.
- And of course, the Turkish food and tastes. At first, have a real Turkish breakfast. You can go to Karaköy (Namlı Gurme is recommended), Kadıköy, Beşiktaş or Nişantaşı. After your breakfast, you can walk across the streets to witness the routine day-life of the city. But please have your Turkish coffee in Eminönü and also don’t’ forget to taste Boza. (Vefa is recommend for Boza)
- Turkish cuisine is really rIch. You’ll hear about the famous Turkish meals Döner and Kebab You’ll see the most popular Kebab houses while your city tour. Also, the teas and sweets are irresistible. Please taste the traditional dessert Baklava.
- Istanbul is a very interesting city offering views and photographs any moment. So keep your camera with you.
And here is the extra tip: As a potential investor, check the property types and prices during your visit. Buying a property in Istanbul is a smart and profitable decision over the both short and long term.
