First Time in Istanbul? A Complete Travel Guide for New Visitors

First Time in Istanbul? Here’s What You Need to Know

For those visiting Istanbul for the first time, this article is packed with practical tips that will help make your experience much smoother. Whether it's cultural differences or daily life tips, this guide will make your first visit to Istanbul more enjoyable.

1. Cultural Etiquette in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city where different cultures and religions come together, so showing respect for the local culture is essential. Paying attention to the following points will help make your visit more comfortable:

• Greeting: Turks typically greet each other by nodding their heads rather than shaking hands frequently. However, it is perfectly acceptable for tourists to shake hands.
• Respect and Silence: Especially in mosques and religious sites, maintaining silence is important. It's also necessary to respect prayer times and dress appropriately when visiting mosques. Women should cover their heads, and men should avoid wearing shorts in religious places.
• Food Culture: Turkish people are very hospitable, and it’s important to enjoy the food when you are invited to a meal. If you attend a gathering, saying "afiyet olsun" (enjoy your meal) and savoring the dishes is highly appreciated.

2. Dress Code

Istanbul is quite a relaxed city for tourists, but when visiting religious sites, you should be mindful of the dress code. In mosques, women should cover their heads, and men should avoid wearing shorts. In hot weather, comfortable and light clothing is recommended. However, it's essential to dress modestly when entering religious places to show respect.

3. Currency and Payments

The currency used in Istanbul is Turkish Lira (TRY). While most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, some smaller shops or traditional places may only accept cash. To exchange money, you can visit currency exchange offices or withdraw Turkish Lira from ATMs.

4. Bargaining Culture

Bargaining is common in markets and some shops. In crowded shopping areas like Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) and Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı), it's possible to negotiate prices. However, while bargaining, it’s important to be polite and friendly to ensure a pleasant experience for both parties. Try to negotiate in a respectful and reasonable manner.

5. Public Transportation

Istanbul has an extensive public transportation network. You can easily travel by buses, metro, trams, and ferries using an Istanbulkart. Taxis are also a common alternative for getting around the city, but you should be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours.

6. Tipping Culture

Tipping is a common practice in restaurants and cafes. A tip of around 10-15% is generally considered appropriate. In hotels, it's customary to leave a small tip for housekeeping staff. Tipping is often based on the quality of service, and a polite approach is always appreciated.