Istanbul blends history, culture, and modern life in a way few cities can, but navigating it without preparation can feel overwhelming. From getting mobile data to avoiding taxi scams and understanding how to move around the city, here’s what to know before your trip.
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Arriving at the Airport & Getting Mobile Data
Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.
After landing, the first thing you’ll likely need is data for maps and ride-hailing apps.
SIM Cards vs. eSIM
- Turkish SIM cards can be bought at the airport, but they are expensive compared to what locals pay.
- If you’re staying short-term, an eSIM like Airalo is the best option. It’s cheaper, quick to set up, and works instantly.
- If you need lots of data, physical SIMs from Turkcell, Vodafone, or Türk Telekom offer larger packages.
Taxis in Istanbul: What You Need to Know
Taxis in Istanbul are infamous for scams, so it’s important to know what to expect.
Types of Taxis
- Yellow taxis (regular) – Cheapest but also the most likely to overcharge tourists.
- Turquoise taxis (mid-range) – Slightly more expensive but more reliable.
- Black taxis (luxury) – High-end, more comfortable but overpriced for short trips.
How to Avoid Taxi Scams
- Always check the meter – It should be visible on the rearview mirror, which may feel different from other countries.
- Use BiTaksi or Uber – BiTaksi is Turkey’s taxi-hailing app, similar to Uber, and prevents drivers from overcharging by setting a fixed rate.
- Never agree to a fixed price for a ride – Taxis should always run the meter.
- Count your change – Some drivers swap large bills for smaller ones and claim you gave less.
Public Transport & the Istanbulkart
Public transport is the fastest and cheapest way to get around the city. Traffic in Istanbul is unpredictable, so using trams, metros, and ferries can save a lot of time.
How to Use Public Transport
- Get an Istanbulkart – This reloadable card works on buses, trams, metros, and ferries.
- Where to buy it – Available at metro stations, ferry docks, and kiosks.
- Cost – A single ride is much cheaper than taking a taxi, with fares typically under 15 TL (~$0.50 USD).
Best Ways to Get Around
- T1 Tram – The best option for visiting tourist areas like Sultanahmet, Eminönü, and Karaköy.
- Metro M2 – Useful for going between Şişli, Taksim, and Levent.
- Ferries – The most scenic way to cross between Europe and Asia.
Walking in Istanbul: Expect Hills & Narrow Streets
Many parts of Istanbul, especially Beyoğlu, Karaköy, and Sultanahmet, have super-steep hills, uneven sidewalks, and narrow streets. It’s really no joke.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Wear comfortable shoes – Walking here is different from flat cities; expect staircases and cobblestone streets.
- Sidewalks are often blocked – Cars, parked scooters, and street vendors make some areas difficult to walk through.
- Fatih and Balat are hilly – If you have mobility issues, staying closer to tram or metro stops is a better option.
Tipping Culture in Istanbul
Tipping is expected but not mandatory in most places.
How Much to Tip
- Restaurants – 5-10% (more in high-end places)
- Taxis – Not required, but rounding up is common
- Hotels – 20-50 TL for porters or housekeepers
- Cafés – Leaving small change is appreciated but not expected
Paying with Cash vs. Card
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but there are a few things to watch out for.
Important Tips
- ATMs often charge high fees – Use ones from major banks like Garanti BBVA, İş Bankası, or Akbank.
- Always select “No Conversion” – If an ATM asks whether you want to be charged in your home currency, decline it to avoid high exchange rates.
- Some small shops and taxis prefer cash – Having some Turkish lira (TL) on hand is always a good idea.
Common Tourist Scams & How to Avoid Them
Istanbul is generally safe, but tourists are often targeted with common scams.
Taxi Scams
- Taking a longer route – Use Google Maps to track your ride.
- Bill-switching scam – Some drivers swap large bills and claim you gave less. Always say the amount out loud when handing money over.
“Shoe Shine” Scam
A shoe shiner drops a brush near you to make you stop and help. If you do, they’ll start cleaning your shoes and demand a high fee. Just walk away.
Restaurant Overcharging
Some restaurants don’t display prices or charge for “complimentary” items like bread. Always check the menu before ordering.
Dress Code & Cultural Sensitivities
Istanbul is modern, but some areas are more conservative.
Mosque Etiquette
- Women – Cover shoulders and knees; bring a scarf for head covering.
- Men – Avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.
- Shoes – Must be removed before entering.
Neighborhoods with More Conservative Dress
Areas like Fatih and Eyüpsultan tend to be more traditional, while Beyoğlu and Kadıköy are much more relaxed in terms of dress.
What to Eat & Drink (and What to Avoid)
Turkish food is rich and diverse, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Must-Try Foods
- Simit – A sesame-covered bagel, perfect for breakfast
- Lahmacun – Thin Turkish-style pizza, best rolled with lemon and parsley
- Balık ekmek – Fish sandwich, best found in Eminönü
Things to Watch Out For
- Tap water isn’t drinkable – Stick to bottled or filtered water.
- Tourist trap restaurants – Avoid places that don’t list prices or push you to order “house specials.”
Final Thoughts
Istanbul is one of the most dynamic, historic, and exciting cities to visit, but knowing these key things will make your trip much smoother.
Get an Istanbulkart for public transport, use BiTaksi to avoid taxi scams, and wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city’s steep streets.
If you’re staying short-term, Airalo is the easiest way to get data, but for longer trips, a local SIM from Turkcell or Vodafone may be better.
Being aware of scams, tipping norms, and dress codes will help you blend in and feel more confident navigating the city.
What are you most excited about experiencing in Istanbul?
