Budget Travel to Istanbul 2024
Welcome to Istanbul!
Istanbul is probably one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the world and one that should be on every traveller’s bucket list.
The city is divided into two continents, Europe and Asian which are separated by the Bosphorus Straits, a huge waterway that connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmaris which leads to the Mediterranean.
In spite of recent price increases, due to inflation, Istanbul is still an affordable city to visit when compared to many other major European destinations. However, some attractions have become quite expensive, so you may need to calculate how many of them you can afford to enter, according to your budget.
Even if you are on a really tight budget and can´t afford to go inside some of the more expensive attractions, for example Hagia Sophia (25 euros), you can always see them from the outside and appreciate their beauty. There are free alternatives that equally beautiful, including Blue Mosque and Suleymaniye Mosque.
There are so many reasons why Istanbul should be your next holiday destination that it is hard to included everything without writing an entire book. However, this travel guide will try to give you advice on how to get the most out of your stay in Istanbul without breaking the bank. It will cover all the must-see attractions, affordable accommodation, food, and transport.
Key Takeaways
- The city is breath-taking to look at, with famous historical sites like Hagia Sofia, The Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
- There are stunning views of Bosphorus Straits which are free and can be seen from both the European and Asian sides of the city.
- There are also many interesting museums and art galleries to visit.
- The vibe on the Asian side of the city is slightly different, more bohemian and laid back than the European side.
- There is a wide range of accommodation to suite all tastes and budgets. Certain areas of the city are more popular than others and are located near to major landmarks.
- Istanbul has so many delicious and affordable restaurants that it could be called a Foodie paradise.
- Getting to Istanbul can be affordable if you plan your travel in advance and look for cheap deals.
- There are two airports, one offering more economic flights,
- There are several ways to get from the airport to your accommodation, including both private and public transportation.
- The IstanbulKart is used instead of cash on all transportation in the city and is an important item to purchase.
- The lovely Princes´ Islands are located near to Istanbul and make a great day trip during the summer.
Where is Istanbul?
Turkey is the largest city in Turkey with a population of approximately 15.5 million. It is divided into two parts, the European side and the Asian side and is considered to be the city where the East meets the West.
It was once a major location on the Silk Road, where goods from Asia were traded with European and other merchants. There are still bazaars that you can visit today that originate from that era.
The distance from Istanbul to Ankara, the capital of Turkey is about 445 kilometres. By road it is 1,100 kilometres from Athens and 550 kilometres from Sofia in Bulgaria, which is the nearest European capital city.
Map of Istanbul
Things to See and Do in Istanbul
Organising Your Sightseeing
There are so many interesting things to see and do in this great city. If you’re planning to spend just a few days, then you’ll need to plan your time and activities in Istanbul wisely. Organising your time is the key to maximising the number of Istanbul attractions you can visit.
It is a good idea to group the most important tourist attractions and landmarks into different neighbourhoods. You can then spend your time exploring all the places that you want to see in each neighbourhood before moving on to the next.
The attractions listed are the main places that tourists usually visit during their stay. However, of course, there are many more, and not all of them can be listed here. You should just choose the types of attractions that suit your style of holiday and your budget.
If you are a student, you should get an international Student Identity Card as this will help you to get discounts in a lot of landmarks and attractions. Teachers can often get discounts for many attractions, if you are a teacher you can also apply for an International Teacher Identity Card.
The sightseeing guide is divided into five areas of the city.
1-Sultanahmet Area
2-Beyoğlu Area
3-Karaköy Area
4-Bosphorus Area
5-Asian Side
Area 1 - Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet is located in the Fatih district of the city. It is a historic neighbourhood that is often considered as the historical heart of the Istanbul. In this area, you will find some of the city´s most important historical attractions.
- Hagia Sophia
- Blue Mosque
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Hippodrome of Constantinople
- Grand Bazaar
- Istanbul Archaeological Museum
- Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya Mosque)
This is one of the main iconic landmarks of Istanbul. It was originally built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the sixth century. This building was a cathedral for almost a thousand years before the Ottomans took it over and turned it into a mosque in 1453.
It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and it is a truly amazing place to visit. Until recently, it was a museum, but it has recently been converted back into a mosque.
It is probably the most popular attraction in the city and a must-see attraction. It offers perhaps the best background scene in Istanbul for taking photos. You should try to visit in the early morning to beat the crowds.
The entrance fee is 25 euros. The price of entry is not included in the Istanbul or Turkey Museum pass. It is expensive, but if you only pay to enter one landmark in the city, this should be it. Opening hours – 9 am to 7.30 pm
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque)
The nearby Blue Mosque is another famous building in the city. It prized for its beautiful blue tiles, impressive domes, and minarets. It is another wonderful place to take photos.
The Blue Mosque was originally built in the first part of the 17th century and considered as a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. It is one of the best mosques in the city and a very popular tourist attraction.
There is no entrance fee for the Blue Mosque and there are often long lines to get in, especially during the summer. You will need to take off your shoes before entering the mosque. You can leave them outside, but many people prefer to put them in a plastic bag and take them in with them.
Try to avoid prayer times, as this will cut down your waiting time in the line. Check this link for prayer times in Istanbul and Turkey.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi is wonderful palace that was the former home of Ottoman sultans and their concubines for almost 400 years. It was built by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in the 15th century and has been extended over the years.
The palace complex has beautiful gardens, stunning Ottoman architecture, and an amazing collection of artefacts. The adjacent Hareem and Hagia Irene Church are now also included in the entry ticket. The entry fee in 2024 includes all three attractions but is 43 euros.
The only way to make this attraction more economical is by purchasing the Museum Pass Istanbul or the Museum Pass Turkey. These passes both include this landmark in the price.
Basilica Cistern
Located close to Topkapi Palace is the Basilica Cistern. It was built in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and was a crucial part of the water supply system for the populous city.
Going down into this ancient underground reservoir is a magical experience. Personally I find that the Roman Cisterns in Turkey are fascinating. You can also see them in other cities such as Gaziantep and Dara (Mardin). However, the Basilica Cistern is the best one in the country.
The entry fee has also increased considerably in recent years and is now 600 Lira (18 euro) during the day and 1000 lira (29 euros) during the evening. Therefore you should try to avoid going in the evening if you are on a budget. The cistern is not included in the Museum Pass.
Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı)
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest covered markets in the world. It is located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district. It is free and must-do experience.
There are approximately 4,000 stalls, selling a wide variety of goods including textiles, ceramics, jewellery, spices, rugs, and more.
It is famous for its lively atmosphere, incredible architecture, and traditional Turkish crafts. It is the ideal place to buy gifts and souvenirs. If the price is high, you can try to negotiate without feeling shy.
Hippodrome of Constantinople
The Hippodrome of Constantinople was an ancient chariot racing track and social centre during the Byzantine Empire.
These days, it is a public square known as Sultanahmet Square. It is still possible to see some of its original features, such as the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column.
Istanbul Archaeological Museum
There are a lot of museums in Istanbul, but if you like ancient history, you should visit the Istanbul Archaeology Museum.
There are three main sections: the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient, and the Tiled Kiosk Museum and the Museum Pass can be used here.
There is wide range of artefacts on display, including sculptures, coins, and ceramics. The entry fee is about 15 euros and is included in the Istanbul Museum Pass.
Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
The museum is located in the stunning Ibrahim Pasha Palace. It has an extensive collection of ceramics, calligraphy, and textiles from many centuries of Turkish and Islamic history. Entry fee: 17 euros. The Museum Pass is valid here.
If you are an art lover, then this museum is a must-see attraction and you can spend at least an hour walking around the exhibitions.
Area 2 - Beyoğlu
This neighbourhood is known for its lively atmosphere, bustling streets, and rich cultural scene that offers a mix of history, modernity, and entertainment.
- Taksim Square
- Istiklal Avenue
- Galata Tower
- Galata Bridge
Taksim Square
Taksim Square is an iconic square that is located in the heart of Istanbul. It is a central point for both locals and tourists.
It is a really busy and lively part of the city and is also one of the main places where travellers like to stay. The square is well connected in terms of transport with a Havaist (airport shuttle) bus stop, a metro station and plenty of buses.
Istiklal Avenue
Istiklal Avenue is also located in the heart of Istanbul, is a busy pedestrian street that stretches for about 1.4 kilometres. It starts in Taksim Square and ends near the Galata Tower.
It is a very lively main street that has many historical buildings and trendy shops. Apart from that, there are many cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues. There is also an iconic tramway that runs along the street.
In the evenings and at the weekends it is absolutely full of people, so it is always a good idea to keep a tight hold on your wallet or pursue. Saying that, in general Istanbul is a fairly safe city.
Galata Tower
When you get to the end of Istiklal Avenue, you will see the Galata Tower. It is one of the oldest towers in the world and was originally built by the Byzantines in 508 AD.
However, the tower has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the years. The tower that you can see today was built by the Genoese in 1349 and was used as a watchtower.
Today, it is a popular tourist observation deck and offers great panoramic views of the city. However, you´ll need to pay nearly 30 euros to enter but is included in the Museum Pass.
If it is not within your budget, you can explore the area around the tower for free and take some great photos.
Galata Bridge
The Galata Bridge is a major landmark in Istanbul. It crosses the Golden Horn, a natural harbour that connects the neighbourhoods of Eminönü and Karaköy.
The bridge is famous for its busy atmosphere, lined with restaurants, tea houses, and shops. You can see people fishing, while others just enjoy walking across the bridge.
It is a popular spot for taking photos as it offers fantastic views of the city’s skyline, especially at sunset.
Area 3 - Karaköy
Karakoy is located on the European side of Istanbul. It is a trendy neighbourhood that has been revitalised in recent years. Apart from its social life, there are a few important attractions located here.
- Istanbul Modern Art Museum
- Suleymaniye Mosque
- Spice Bazaar
Istanbul Modern Museum
For art lovers, the Istanbul Modern has a great collection of contemporary Turkish and international works of art. The museum holds many exhibitions and cultural events, making it a wonderful place for both locals and tourists.
The entrance fee is around 15 euros. However, there is free admission on Thursdays from 10.00 to 14.00. It is included in the Museum Pass.
Suleymaniye Mosque
The Suleymaniye Mosque was built in 1557 by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. It is one of Istanbul’s most magnificent architectural mosques with a fantastic courtyard.
This beautiful mosque is located on a hill on the European side of the city and has some wonderful views of the city. It´s not a very well-known mosque among foreign tourists, and for that reason, there are usually no lines to get inside.
It is free to enter the mosque, compared to 25 euros for Hagia Sophia. This is an excellent option if you really want to see the beautiful interior of a mosque, but don´t want to pay a high entrance fee.
Spice Bazaar
The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. It is another famous market in Istanbul and is located near the waterfront.
In the bazaar you will be able to find a wide range of herbs and spices, as well as dried fruits, and nuts. It is also a great place to buy Turkish delight. It is free to enter.
Area 4 - The Bosphorus
The Bosphorus is a fascinating waterway that divides the city into two continents.
There are wonderful views of Istanbul’s skyline, from the shoreline, including historical sites, palaces, and bridges.
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Bosphorus Cruise
- Ortakoy Mosque
- Rumeli Fortress
Dolmabahce Palace
The Dolmabahce Palace was built in the mid-19th century by Sultan Abdulmecid I and is so big that it took 13 years to finish.
The palace is a beautiful example of late Ottoman architecture and has beautiful gardens, rich interiors, and intricate decorations. The entrance fee is about 30 euros. However, if it is outside your budget, you can appreciate this beautiful palace from the outside free of charge. It is not included in the Museum Pass.
There is a lovely cafe on the banks of the Bosphorus next to the Dolmabahçe Palace. It is a stunning place to relax and take in the views for the price of a cup of tea. Getting there is easy; just a few minutes on foot from the palace is the funicular that will take you to Taksim square.
Bosphorus Cruise
There are plenty of cruise ships that take tourists up and down the Bosphorus. Some of them can be a little pricey. However, if you don´t want to spend a lot of money on a cruise, there is a much cheaper alternative.
You can take a ferry boat (Vapor) across the straits or even travel along the Bosphorous itself for around 1 euro or so. There is a ferry point located just a few minutes on foot from the Dolmabahce palace. If you want to go on an organised cruise then Bosphorus Cruise tours are probably the most economical.
Ortakoy Mosque
The Ortaköy Mosque is a beautiful waterfront mosque located in the Ortaköy neighbourhood. It was built by Sultan Abdulmecid I and was completed in 1856. It’s free to enter.
It is a famous place to visit because there is a unique and photogenic view of the city’s waterfront skyline.
You can get the ferry there from Kabataş ferry station or get a bus from Taksim to Besiktas and walk from there. A taxi from Taksim will cost about about 10-12 euros depending on the traffic and time of day.
Rumeli Fortress
Rumeli Fortress, also known as Rumeli Hisarı, is a historic fortress located on the European side of Istanbul and is one of my favourite places in the city.
It was built by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in 1452 and is situated in a strategic location on a hill that looks out over the Bosphorus.
The fortress is an amazing work of architecture, and visitors can see the well-preserved walls and towers. The entrance fee is about 6 euros.
To get to the fortress, you can catch a ferry from the ferry point located near the Dolmabahce palace and get off at the Rumeli Hisarı stop.
Area 5: The Asian Side
The Asian side of Istanbul, also known as the Anatolian side, offers a different perspective of life in the city compared to the European side.
It is characterised by its laid-back atmosphere, residential neighbourhoods, and local markets.
- Kadıköy District
- Moda Neighbourhood
- Beylerbeyi Palace
- Bagdat Avenue
- Üsküdar District
- Maiden’s Tower
Kadikoy & Moda Districts
This lively neighbourhood is known for its bohemian atmosphere, with a mix of trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops.
It is a popular destination for locals and visitors who are looking for a unique and authentic Istanbul experience.
Most of the best places for views here don´t cost more than the price of a cup of tea or Turkish coffee. Just sit down and enjoy!
Moda is famous for its tree-lined streets, cosy cafes, local boutiques, and street art. It is a popular destination for strolling and people-watching.
Beylerbeyi Palace
Beylerbeyi Palace, located on the Asian side of city, is a magnificent Ottoman palace that was built in the 19th century. It was a summer residence for many Ottoman sultans.
The palace has stunning architecture, elaborate interiors, and a picturesque waterfront location. It is a beautiful but relatively unknown attraction for tourists. The entrance fee is 350 TL (about 10 euros).
It is not as grand as Dolmabahce Palace, but it is still a very nice place to visit and a lot cheaper.
Badgat Avenue
Bagdat Avenue is a well-known and prestigious street famous for its upscale shops, trendy boutiques, and luxurious brands. It runs for more than 14 kilometres and is a popular place to hang out.
Üsküdar
You can enjoy the magical views of the Bosphorus and the Maiden´s Tower without spending a penny. The Maiden´s Tower is just 180 metres from the shoreline. It´s a great place to take photos.
Maiden´s Tower
Maiden’s Tower is also known as Kız Kulesi. It is a historic tower located on a small islet on the Asian side of the Bosphorus Straits.
It is thought to have been built in the 5th century. The entry fee to the museum is about 27 euros plus just under 2 euros for the short boat ride to get there from Üsküdar. It is included in the Museum Pass.
Other Things to See and Do
It is not possible to include everything in this guide as there are simply so many things to include.
However, you can check out the blogs on the website that cover more things to see in Istanbul, and include lesser visited attractions, as well as day trips from Istanbul, Free walking Tours of Istanbul and Hammams in Istanbul.
Museum Pass Istanbul
This pass gives you 5 days of access to more than 10 of the city´s museums and historical gems without waiting in long lines and wasting valuable time.
At the time of writing in 2024, the cost is 105 euros, which seems quite expensive. However, if you consider that the price of entering Topkapi Palace alone is nearly 45 euros, it could be worth it.
So, work out how many places you intend to visit on your stay and calculate if buying the pass is a good deal for you. However, many of Istanbul´s best attractions are not included, such as Hagia Sophia.
You can check out the list of all 10 attractions on the Istanbul Museum pass website. You can also buy the pass online and start using it whenever you are ready to start your visit to Istanbul.
Budget Accommodation in Istanbul
Which Neighbourhood
When it comes to finding accommodations in Istanbul, there are a wide range of options available to suit every budget.
The three main areas where tourist prefer to stay are
- Sultanahmet
- Taksim square
- Beyoğlu.
They are all well located and close to many of the city´s main attractions. However, if you’re looking for a less touristic area with good public transport, you should consider staying, including, Karaköy and Kadiköy.
Hostels & Budget Hotels
If you’re a budget traveller, hostels can provide you with comfortable rooms, shared facilities, and a good social atmosphere. They can also give you the chance to meet other travellers from around the world.
Check out the guide on Hostels in Istanbul.
Budget hotels in Istanbul offer travellers basic amenities and comfortable stays without compromising on quality. Sometimes it is just easier to look for hotels and book a room in a budget hotel via booking.com or Expedia.com, and sometimes the price is even better then booking directly.
Apartment & Room Rental
Apartment rentals allow you to have your own space while providing the option to prepare your own meals and live like a local. This is often a good choice if you are travelling with small kids.
Sharing an apartment with a local host can help you cut your accommodation costs. It may also give you the opportunity to get to know Turkish locals who can give you more tips and advice. Check out our guide on budget accommodation in Turkey.
Seasonal Variations in Price
It’s worth noting that the price of accommodation in Istanbul can vary depending on the season. During peak tourist periods, such as summer or major holidays, including the 2024 Muslim holidays of Bayram (Eid), prices are higher.
If you travel between March and June or October and November, you are going to find more bargains. Winter is the cheapest time to visit the city but the weather can be very cold and even snowy.
What to Eat on a Budget
Eating on a budget is fairly easy to do in Istanbul. However, if you are on a tight budget you should learn several important food items that are very inexpensive and very filling. Check out the food guides for more information on Turkish food and wine.
Where to Eat
There are so many good places to eat in Istanbul, The general rule for finding excellent inexpensive food is to stay away from the tourist traps. Normally, the further you go from the city centre, prices tend to become more inexpensive. There are several good options to choose from when looking for inexpensive meals
- Street food
- Bakeries and local cafes
- Lokantas (Budget-friendly restaurants with homemade food)
Nightlife in Istanbul
Istanbul is home to a thriving nightlife scene, catering to all tastes and budgets. Here are some ways to make the most of Istanbul’s nightlife without breaking the bank:
The area around Beyoğlu and Taksim are good for affordable bars and clubs. There are a wide selection of bars and clubs that offer reasonably priced drinks and entry fees.
Take advantage of happy hour deals and drink specials, allowing you to enjoy your favourite drinks at discounted prices. Nightlife in tourist areas is always more expensive than in areas where Turkish people hang out.
Shopping in Istanbul
Istanbul offers lots of shopping opportunities, from traditional markets to modern shopping malls.
When you are shopping for souvenirs and gifts, consider exploring the local markets, such as the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar.
You’ll find a wide range of traditional crafts, textiles, and spices. These markets offer a unique shopping experience and the opportunity to haggle for a better price.
Getting to Istanbul
Istanbul´s Two Airports
Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul International Airport (IST) and Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW).
Istanbul International Airport is much larger and is located on the European side, quite far away from the city centre. It is the airport where most of the long-haul flights arrive, although domestic flights also leave from here.
Istanbul Sabiha Gökcen Airport is situated on the Asian side of the city and is generally a hub for low-cost carriers. There are both domestic and international flights from this airport.
Istanbul is a major international air hub, with flights arriving from various destinations worldwide. Most of the long-haul flights will arrive in Turkey, via Istanbul. Most Turkish Airlines planes go to the International airport.
Low-Cost International Flights
If you want to go to Istanbul with a low-cost carrier, you should sign up on their website. They will send you notifications whenever there are any special offers. This is a great way to find the lowest prices.
However, you should be careful with low-cost carriers, as they often have a very small baggage allowance. The ticket price can go up dramatically if you have a lot of luggage.
Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) is the airport that most low-cost flights go to. Pegasus Airlines is one of the most popular companies. Other carriers include Germanwings, SunExpress, Wizzair, Transavia, FlyNas and FlyDubai.
You should use flight comparison sites to compare prices. Skyscanner and Kayak are the most common choices, but Google Flights is also a good alternative.
For more information check the Turkish Air travel guide to and around Turkey, check out our budget-friendly guide.
Visas & Travel Insurance
Before travelling to an Istanbul airport, it’s important to check the visa requirements for Turkey. There is an eVisa system that allows many nationalities to apply for a Turkish visa online, making the process easier and more convenient. The price of an eVisa may depend on your nationality.
Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a Turkish visa in person before your trip. However, there is a small number of nationalities that do not need any visa for a holiday for up to 90 days. You should check on the Turkish government website about your visa requirements.
Everyone who comes to Turkey should have full travel insurance that cover any medical emergency and includes repatriation to you home country in worst case medical issues.
Domestic Flights to Istanbul
The cheapest domestic flights usually leave from Sabiha Gökcen Airport. You can also catch domestic flights from the International Airport with Turkish Airlines.
Turkish Airlines are generally more expensive, but sometimes, if you book the ticket well in advance, prices can be the same or even cheaper. In addition, Turkish Airlines usually has a bigger baggage allowance than low-cost carriers.
Domestic airlines include Pegasus Airlines, SunExpress, Ajet (Formally Anadolu Airlines, and Corendon Airlines
How to get from the Airports to Istanbul City Centre
There is a good public transport in Istanbul. However, it can be a little complicated to get to the city centre from the airports. This is probably the last thing you need after taking a long flight.
In my opinion the best option for your airport transfer is to catch an airport shuttle bus (HAVAIST) . It is a comfortable and very economical way of getting from either airport to several destinations across the city centre.
There are different buses that can take you from either airport to destinations all over the city, the most popular one being Taksim. You can even get a transfer to take you from one airport to the other, which can take about nearly 2 hours.
International Buses to Istanbul
International bus tickets are sometimes not much cheaper than low-cost flights in the low season, when you book well in advance. However, in the height of the summer, international buses can be much cheaper, especially if you are travelling with a lot of baggage.
Crossings on the Turkiye/Bulgaria border tend to be tedious and lengthy. There are numerous international bus routes that connect Istanbul with various Eastern European and Asian cities.
- Sofia (Bulgaria): 8 hours – VIP/ Ardar Tur / Flixbus /Hunter
- Athens (Greece): About 16 hours – See guide for more info.
- Munich (Germany): 12 hours – Alpar / Panorama
- Tbilisi (Georgia): 24 hours – Luks Karadeniz / Metrto
Travelling to Istanbul by bus can be a long and tiring journey. Make sure you book a luxury bus with plenty of leg room.
Istanbul Bus Stations
There are two main bus stations in Istanbul: Esenler Bus Terminal (Büyük Otogar), which is the largest and busiest bus terminal in the city.
It serves various Turkish and international destinations, including cities in Bulgaria, Romania, Greece, Germany and Georgia. The other main bus stations include Harem Bus Terminal, which is located on the Asian side.
Both bus stations are well connected to the rest of the city by public transport and there are also taxis 24/7. For more information about Intercity Bus travel in Turkey check out our guide.
Intercity Buses to Istanbul
Within Turkey, there is an extensive network of intercity bus services that make travelling to Istanbul a breeze. The buses are well-equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, reclining seats, and onboard Wi-Fi, making your travel experience pleasant and enjoyable.
- Ankara – around 7 hours – Flixbus /Pamukkale
- Antalya – about 14 hours – Flixbus / Pamukkale
- Goreme / Cappadocia – approximately 12 hours – Flixbus
You can either buy the bus ticket in the bus terminal or buy it on an app such as Busbud, and get an e-ticket.
International Trains to Istanbul
Train travel to Istanbul is a scenic and leisurely option for those looking for a relaxing holiday experience. The city has several international train routes, making it a unique way to arrive from neighbouring countries.
For example, the Balkan Express connects Istanbul to cities like Sofia and Belgrade.
- Sofia – About 10 hours, night sleeper train: 18.30
- Sofia; 05.30 Istanbul
- Belgrade, 18 hours
There is an excellent train network in Europe that will enable you to get to Istanbul indirectly from just about anywhere on the continent. There are rail travel passes that include Europe and Turkey.
Intercity Turkish Trains
Within Turkey, intercity train services offer an alternative to bus travel. However, the Turkish railway network is not as extensive as the bus network.
The Turkish State Railways (TCDD) operates reliable intercity trains, with comfortable coaches and convenient schedules.
If you’re travelling to Ankara, Eskisehir, Konya, or any other city that is connected by fast-speed train. This form of transport can be fast, inexpensive, and effective. However, for other destinations with regular trains, it can be slow and tiring.
- Ankara – high-speed train, 4h.30 instead of 6h.45 by bus.
- Adana – 22 hours by standard train, compared to 15 hours by bus.
Train Stations in Istanbul
There are three main train stations in the city. Haydarpasa Terminal is located on the Asian side of the city. It is an old station with stunning architecture.
Sirkeci Terminal is situated on the European side and offers connections to various domestic and international destinations.
The other main train station is called Söğütlüçeşme station and it is located in Pendik on the Asian side. It is the station where high-speed trains to Ankara, Eskisehir, and Konya leave. The find out more about train travel in Turkey, check out our guide.
Getting around Istanbul
Understanding the Istanbul public transport system is essential for getting around the city efficiently and cost-effectively.
The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable transport card that can be used on the metro, tram, buses, and ferries. It will provide you with access to the entire public transport network. Remember that you can´t pay with cash on public transport in the city.
The metro system is extensive and covers many popular destinations. It is one of the best ways to get around and avoid the busy traffic. Trams are a great way to explore the historic areas of the city, while buses provide an extensive network that covers every corner of Istanbul.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience public ferries, which offer a scenic and enjoyable way to travel between the European and Asian sides of the city.
Make sure to get an Istanbulkart upon arrival in the city. This card can be easily topped up with credit and used for multiple journeys on all modes of public transport. You will see it on sale across the city, and it is very affordable.
When is the Best Time to Visit Istanbul?
The best time to visit Istanbul depends on your personal preferences.
The city has a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild and sometimes cold winters.
The peak tourist season in Istanbul is during the summer months, from June to August. However, this is also when the city is most crowded and prices are highest.
Alternatively, you can consider visiting Istanbul during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October). At this time of year, the weather in Istanbul is pleasant and the price of accommodation is lower.
Winter (December to February) is the off-peak season, offering the lowest prices but cooler temperatures and sometimes rainy.
Is Istanbul Worth Visiting?
If you only have the chance to visit one city in Turkey in your life, then Istanbul is the place to go. It is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, not only for its amazing historical sites, but also for its amazing natural beauty.
Is it a perfect city? Of course not! It has too much traffic, it´s crowded and it can be polluted at times, but in spite of all these things, it is a unique destination that is unforgettable.
If you have a chance to visit the rest of Turkey, that is a bonus, but Istanbul should be on every serious traveller´s destination list. If you go there you will definitely not be disappointed.
I would recommend that you stay at least one week. However, if that is not possible, then perhaps you could see the city´s main attractions in 3 or 4 days. Is the city worth visiting? Absolutely YES, and I will be going back there soon.
