Istanbul, the cultural capital of Turkey, is full of historic landmarks and exciting things to do. From its stunning mosques to its delicious cuisine and bustling markets, Istanbul is a city that never sleeps. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary and budget for all the attractions. However, there is a solution – City Cards! City Cards allow visitors to save money on attractions, skip lines, and even get free public transportation. In this post, we will highlight the two best City Cards in Istanbul, so you can make the most out of your trip without breaking the bank.
The 2 Best City Cards in Istanbul
The 2 Best City Cards in Istanbul
1. Istanbul: Tourist Pass with Over 85 Attractions & Services
Explore Istanbul’s top attractions hassle-free with the Istanbul Tourist Pass. This convenient pass allows you 2, 3, 5, or 7-day access to over 85 attractions in the city, including skip-the-line entrance to top sites like Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern. Discover the city’s diverse cultures on guided tours, and enjoy a thrilling 90-minute Segway tour. Take in panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline aboard a relaxing Golden Horn or Bosphorus Strait cruise, and watch a traditional whirling dervish show at the Hodjapasha Hamam. The pass includes access to select state museums and a discount on private airport transfers. Chat support over WhatsApp is available during certain hours, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off services are offered in select areas. Don’t miss this chance to make the most of your time in Istanbul with the Istanbul Tourist Pass.
2. İstanbul Welcome Card
Experience Istanbul to the fullest with the Istanbul Welcome Card. Upon arrival, your welcome package will be delivered to your hotel, containing the Istanbul Welcome Card loaded with 10 rides for public transportation and vouchers to join the Bosphorus Cruise, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace tours. Skip the lines and explore the city with 10 transportation tickets including metro, tram, ferry, funicular, bus and metrobus. With this card, you can also enjoy numerous discounts at many top attractions across the city and discover museums with the included audio guides at your own pace. The Istanbul Welcome Card provides free hotel delivery, skip-the-ticket-line entry to several museums and attractions (except Hagia Sophia), and guided tours of the Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with a historian guide. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to fully experience Istanbul with the Istanbul Welcome Card.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul
Istanbul, the biggest city and financial capital of Turkey, is an intriguing place to visit. As the only city that bridges Europe and Asia, it has a melting pot of cultures that offers visitors an engaging and unique experience. In this post, we will answer some of the most asked questions regarding Istanbul, so you can be well informed before visiting.1. What is the best time of year to visit Istanbul?
The ideal time to visit Istanbul is in the spring (April – May) or autumn (September – October). Istanbul can get very hot and humid during the summer, and some tourists might find it unbearable. Winters can be chilly and rainy. However, Istanbul still looks magnificent during the winter season, especially during snowfall.2. What is the currency used in Istanbul, Turkey?
The official currency used in Istanbul and the rest of Turkey is the Turkish Lira. You can get the Turkish Lira from any bank or exchange bureau, which are readily available throughout Istanbul. Alternatively, you can withdraw Turkish Lira from ATMs, which are very common in Istanbul.3. What is the official language spoken in Istanbul?
The official language spoken in Istanbul is Turkish. However, English is widely spoken in Istanbul’s tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels.4. What are the transportation options in Istanbul?
Istanbul offers different modes of transportation, including buses, trams, metro, taxis, and ferries. Buying a transport card, called Istanbulkart, is the most affordable and efficient way to get around Istanbul. This card allows you to use public transportation, including buses, trains, and ferries, and has a rechargeable balance for multiple uses.5. What are the must-visit spots in Istanbul?
Istanbul has a variety of must-visit spots that you should put in your itinerary, including:- The Hagia Sophia
- The Blue Mosque
- The Topkapi Palace
- The Grand Bazaar
- The Galata Tower
- The Bosphorus Bridge
6. What is the dress code for visiting mosques in Istanbul?
When visiting mosques in Istanbul, both men and women should dress modestly. Women must cover their head with a scarf and wear long sleeves and pants or skirts that cover their ankles. Men should also wear long pants and dress modestly.7. What is the famous Turkish cuisine that one should try in Istanbul?
Istanbul is famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Some must-try dishes include:- Kebabs
- Baklava
- Meze (a Middle Eastern-style appetizer)
- Pide (Turkish-style pizza)
- Lahmacun (Turkish-style flatbread with minced meat and vegetables)
- Turkish delight
8. How safe is Istanbul, Turkey?
Istanbul is generally a safe city to visit, and tourists rarely face any safety issues. However, it is always a good idea to take necessary precautions while traveling, such as avoiding walking alone in dimly-lit areas, being cautious when using public transportation, and being aware of your surroundings.9. Are credit cards accepted in Istanbul?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Istanbul’s tourist places, restaurants, and hotels. However, it is still wise to carry some cash for small purchases from small businesses, such as street vendors, as they may not accept credit cards.10. What should I bring back from Istanbul?
Istanbul is renowned for its rich culture, and there are many things you can take back as souvenirs. Some of the best souvenirs include:- Turkish tea and spices
- Ceramic plates and bowls
- Traditional Turkish lamps and candles
- Carpets and kilims
- Turkish coffee and coffee sets
- Hand-crafted Turkish ceramics and pottery
Conclusion
Istanbul is a wonderful city filled with exotic food, awe-inspiring architecture, and incredible culture. By answering the most frequently asked questions, we hope to have helped you prepare for your trip to Istanbul, Turkey, so you can make the best out of your visit. Keep in mind the important details mentioned, such as the best time to visit the city, dress codes for different attractions, transportation options, and must-visit spots, while enjoying the Turkish hospitality and hospitality.Table of Contents
