5 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the world’s most captivating cities, known for its history, stunning views and vibrant urban life. This unique city, which bridges Asia and Europe, welcomes millions of visitors each year, though it can seem overwhelming to first-time visitors.

The city’s size, diverse transportation options, and heavy traffic are key factors that directly influence the Istanbul experience. That’s why knowing certain details in advance can make your trip more enjoyable.

We’ve highlighted the top 5 things you must know before visiting Istanbul. This way, you can make the most of your time in Istanbul and fully enjoy everything the city has to offer.

1. İstanbulkart 

Public transportation in Istanbul is highly developed and the Istanbulkart can be used on all modes of transportation... The Istanbulkart is valid on nearly all public transportation vehicles in the city. You can use a single card to travel on modes of transportation such as the metro, tram, bus, ferry, Marmaray and metrobus.

The easiest way to get an Istanbulkart is to use the yellow-and-blue ticket vending machines. These machines, which can be found at nearly all transportation hubs, offer great convenience. You can purchase a new card using these machines. Language options are available on the screens. They can be used in English, Arabic and many other languages.

In addition to the machines, many kiosks, grocery stores and newsstands in Istanbul serve as Istanbulkart sales and reload points.

Visitors arriving by plane can purchase an Istanbulkart at the airports.

Istanbul Airport (IST): There are multiple ticket machines available. You can find them on Level -2 near the metro station and close to the bus terminals. You can use your Istanbulkart to take the metro or Havaist buses to reach any central location.

Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): There are machines selling Istanbulkart outside the airport. You can take the Havabüs shuttle service or city buses.

For information on Istanbulkart types and details, visit https://www.istanbulkart.istanbul/OurCards.

For transportation details, please review the article below.

https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/blog/istanbulda-ekonomik-tatil

2. Watch Out for Taxis

Taxis are widely used in Istanbul and are often the preferred choice, especially during times when public transportation is insufficient or when quick travel is needed. However, there are important points tourists should keep in mind when using taxis in Istanbul. Being aware of these points can make your trip more comfortable.

Especially in busy and tourist-heavy areas like Sultanahmet, Taksim and Galata, finding a taxi can be quite difficult. Disputes may arise, such as drivers refusing short-distance rides or insisting on taking alternative routes. While these situations do not apply to all taxi drivers, they can cause difficulties when you need to get somewhere on time. For this reason, we recommend using public transportation, especially in these crowded areas.

Alternatively, using mobile apps like BiTaksi and Uber, which are widely used for hailing rides in Istanbul, can be a more practical option. These apps allow you to view estimated fare information before your trip.

That said, public transportation is quite good in many central parts of Istanbul. Neighborhoods like Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş and Kadıköy are among the city’s most central and bustling locations. Visitors staying in these neighborhoods can easily reach tourist attractions and entertainment centers.

3. Public Transportation at Night

Istanbul’s public transportation options are quite extensive, and it’s generally easy to get around during the day. However, at night, some routes run less frequently, and certain routes may be completely suspended.

Things to keep in mind when using public transportation at night:

- Check the schedules of the buses, metros, or ferries you’re taking with your Istanbulkart.

- If metro or bus service has ended, taxis or ride-hailing apps (Bitaksi, Uber) are a safe and convenient alternative.

If you’re staying in central areas like Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş, and Kadıköy, you’ll have a significant advantage for nighttime travel. Since metro, bus, and ferry lines are close to each other in these neighborhoods, you can move around the city comfortably even late at night.

General operating hours are as follows:

Marmaray: Marmaray is a fast transit option connecting the two sides of Istanbul. On weekdays, the last trip usually runs between 11:00 PM and 12:30 AM, while on weekends, service extends until 1:20 AM. Trips run approximately every 15 minutes during the day, and this interval shortens to as little as 8 minutes during peak hours.

Metrobüs: It operates continuously 24 hours a day in Istanbul.

Metro: Metro lines (M1A, M1B, M2, M4, M5, M6, M7, M8, M9, M11) operate from 6:00 AM to midnight on weekdays, and from 6:00 AM on Friday through midnight on Sunday; some lines run 24 hours a day.

Ferry: Ferries make city transportation quite enjoyable, offering a fast and comfortable mode of travel without getting stuck in traffic.

- Kadıköy - Beşiktaş: 6:45 - 22:15

- Üsküdar - Karaköy - Eminönü: 6:25 - 20:30

- Üsküdar - Beşiktaş: 06:10 - 01:00

- Kadıköy - Karaköy - Eminönü: Until 01:00

- Princes’ Islands Ferries: 06:45-21:00

4. Traffic in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city where you can expect heavy traffic, especially in the morning between 7:30AM and 10:00AM and in the evening between 5:00PM and 8:00PM, due to its population, busy work schedule, and school commute. Even short distances can take much longer than expected during these peak hours.

For this reason:

- Allow more time than usual to reach your destination, and factor in traffic congestion when planning your travel time.

- If possible, use public transportation or fast, seamless options like ferries, metrobus, or the metro to get to your destination.

- Staying in central locations offers a significant advantage. Our Airbnb listings in neighborhoods like Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş are located in areas that are both tourist-friendly and close to central locations and transportation options.

5. Parking

5 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Istanbul
Due to its size and dense population, Istanbul can be a challenging city for car owners to find parking. Finding street parking is particularly limited in central neighborhoods like Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş. Therefore, if you plan to drive in Istanbul, it’s important to pay attention to parking.

What you need to know about parking: 
- Finding street parking in central areas is difficult and sometimes requires payment. Additionally, in some areas, parking hours are limited, and there is a risk of receiving a parking ticket.
- Paid parking lots are available at shopping malls and certain facilities. Rates may be charged daily or hourly; be sure to check prices and availability before you go.

- Parking lots in side streets may ask for your car keys due to limited space. Unfortunately, this has become a common practice for Istanbul residents. If you do not want to hand over your car keys, avoid entering small parking lots in side streets.
- If Istanbul’s traffic and parking are a time-consuming hassle for you, you can opt for public transportation or a taxi. This way, you’ll enjoy an economical vacation in Istanbul while also saving time. 

Accommodation and Location Selection

Your choice of accommodation in Istanbul is one of the most important factors directly affecting the comfort of your trip. Since Istanbul is quite large and travel times between different neighborhoods can vary, staying in a central location offers a significant advantage. Staying in the right neighborhood is one of the most important steps toward experiencing Istanbul more easily and enjoyably.

Staying in central neighborhoods with easy access to transportation helps you save time and explore the city more easily. Among the most popular neighborhoods for accommodation in Istanbul are Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş, and Kadıköy. Beyoğlu, Taksim, and the surrounding area are among Istanbul’s most tourist-friendly and vibrant districts. It is rich in nightlife, shopping, and cultural activities. Beşiktaş is highly advantageous due to its proximity to both historical sites and business and entertainment centers. Additionally, thanks to its large university population, it boasts a lively and dynamic atmosphere dominated by young people and students. Kadıköy is one of the liveliest locations on the Asian side. It offers a pleasant experience with its cafes, restaurants, and seaside walks. Additionally, thanks to ferry, metro, and Marmaray connections, reaching the European side is quite easy and quick.

The apartments in Orienta Istanbul Tourism’s portfolio have been carefully selected to ensure the comfort and safety of our guests. Located primarily in Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş, these apartments are situated in safe and lively neighborhoods within walking distance of public transportation.

Airbnb in Beyoğlu 

Pala Hayri Apartment

Located just a few minutes’ walk from Galata Tower, the Pala Hayri Apartment Building, featuring 1-bedroom and studio apartments, offers guests a true Beyoğlu experience.

-Pala Hayri Apartment Unit 2

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1459953942530771193?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link: https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/pala-hayri-apartmani-2

-Pala Hayri Apartment Unit 3

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link: https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/pala-hayri-apartmani-3

-Pala Hayri Apartment, Apartment 4

Airbnb Link; https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1073902840786212587?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/pala-hayri-apartmani-4

-Pala Hayri Apartment, Apartment 5

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/pala-hayri-apartmani-5

Airbnb in Kadıköy

Başar Apartment
 

Located in Caferağa, one of Kadıköy’s most beloved neighborhoods, Başar Apartment offers affordable accommodation in a central location. With its 2+1, 1+1, and 1+0 apartments, it provides options to suit every need. Thanks to its central location, it’s within walking distance of the beach, public transportation, and all of Kadıköy’s lively spots. The ideal choice for those planning an affordable vacation in Kadıköy.

Başar Apartment, Apartment 1

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1577373325150403517?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/basar-apartmani-1

Başar Apartment, Apartment 2

Airbnb Link; https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1365844289672912224?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/basar-apartmani-2

Başar Apartment, Apartment 3

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1365816240844743803?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link: https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/basar-apartmani-3

Başar Apartment, Apartment 4

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1365810090961199193?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/basar-apartmani-4

Başar Apartment, Apartment 5

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1365767023777011666?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link: https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/basar-apartmani-5

Başar Apartment, Apartment 6

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1365754372067907425?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link: https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/basar-apartmani-6

Başar Apartment, Apartment 7

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1365165210754502682?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/basar-apartmani-7

Başar Apartment, Apartment 8 

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/1365154545272188404?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link: https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/basar-apartmani-8

Airbnb in Beşiktaş

Ida Maria Apartment

For those looking for an affordable vacation in Beşiktaş, central and convenient accommodation options are a major advantage. Located in Abbasağa, Ida Maria Apartments offers modern 1-bedroom apartments that are both affordable and comfortable for short-term stays. Thanks to its location in Beşiktaş, you can easily reach many parts of the city.

Ida Maria Apartments, Apartment 2

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/942429950261121703?unique_share_id=a523b9d8-ea9c-4cd2-be59-412a7c8d3a93&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/ida-maria-apartmani-2

Ida Maria Apartment, Apartment 3

Airbnb Link; https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/942765296934861451?unique_share_id=5e22f61e-d0d7-4326-ad7e-ad6dc75098f5&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link; https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/ida-maria-apartmani-3

Ida Maria Apartment, Apartment 4

Airbnb Link; https://www.airbnb.com.tr/rooms/938090773643712746?unique_share_id=b032704f-f0c1-4732-b5c3-5cd59048006c&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Orienta Istanbul Tourism Website Link: https://orientaistanbul.com/tr/mulklerimiz/ida-maria-apartmani-4