Question 1

What are the minimum transfer times for Turkish Airlines flights with a layover in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

The minimum transfer time for Turkish Airlines flights in Istanbul is 50 minutes without baggage; however, for a comfortable transfer, it is recommended to have at least 1.5 to 2 hours, especially if you have luggage.

Question 2

Where to book a transfer from the new Istanbul airport to a hotel near Taksim Square if arriving by intercity bus?

Accepted Answer

On Tripkome, you need to specify your flight when booking a transfer, while on Booking, you can just indicate your arrival time. Many hotels also offer transfers at lower rates, so it’s worth contacting them directly.

Question 3

Where in Istanbul can I see colored houses besides the Balat district?

Accepted Answer

Colored houses can be found not only in Balat but also in Kuzguncuk and Arnavutköy on the Asian side of Istanbul.

Question 4

Is it already too cold to swim in the Princes' Islands at the beginning of October?

Accepted Answer

The swimming season officially ends in late September, and the water temperature may be below 20 degrees, but swimming may still be possible if the weather allows.

Question 5

Is it possible to check into a hotel in the old city of Istanbul without a reservation if arriving in the evening?

Accepted Answer

You can check into a hotel in the old city of Istanbul without a reservation, but high prices and availability issues may arise, especially since cleaning usually occurs from 12 to 3 PM.

Question 6

What is the weather like in Istanbul in mid-November?

Accepted Answer

In mid-November, the weather in Istanbul is expected to be mild, similar to golden autumn, but there may be rain and wind, especially on the open decks of ships.

Question 7

Is there a chance to catch the ferry from Kadıköy to Eminönü if arriving at Sabiha at 19:35?

Accepted Answer

Traveling from Sabiha to Kadıköy will take about 1.5 hours, but ferries operate until midnight according to the schedule.

Question 8

Can I take a ferry from Kabataş pier to Üsküdar using Istanbulkart?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can pay for the ferry from Kabataş to Üsküdar using Istanbulkart. However, there are only a few sailings on this route.

Question 9

Can I use Istanbulkart to pay for the ferry to the Princes' Islands?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use Istanbulkart to pay for the ferry to the Princes' Islands, but there are only a few sailings per day.

Question 10

Where can I stay near Sabiha Gökçen Airport after a layover?

Accepted Answer

Near Sabiha Gökçen Airport, you can stay at hotels such as Four Points by Sheraton Istanbul Pendik or Home Plus in Kurtköy.

Question 11

Is cash necessary in Turkey?

Accepted Answer

Cash is still needed in Turkey, especially if you do not have a foreign card.

Question 12

Which airport is better to choose for the first visit to Istanbul: Sabiha Gökçen or Istanbul Airport?

Accepted Answer

It is better to choose the airport that is more convenient for your departure, as both airports are good. Personally, I prefer IST.

Question 13

Are there ticket offices in Istanbul where you can buy tickets for domestic flights in cash?

Accepted Answer

There are ticket offices in Istanbul where you can buy tickets for domestic flights in cash. It is recommended to visit the nearest agencies or the Turkish Airlines office.

Question 14

Can you change dirhams for liras at Sabiha Airport? Where is the best place to change dollars issued before 2016?

Accepted Answer

You can change UAE dirhams for liras at Sabiha Airport, but banks do not exchange them. It is better to exchange in exchange offices (Döviz).

Question 15

How can you communicate with locals in Istanbul? Is an online translator enough?

Accepted Answer

You can use an online translator for communication with locals in Istanbul; it should be sufficient.

Question 16

What is the cost per person for Havabus from Taksim to Sabiha? Is there an extra charge for luggage? Can you pay in cash?

Accepted Answer

The cost per person for Havabus from Taksim to Sabiha is 485 liras, luggage is included in the price, and payment can be made in cash.

Question 17

Are there any Balenciaga, Rick Owens, and Alyx boutiques in Turkey?

Accepted Answer

In Turkey, there are Balenciaga boutiques in IstinyePark and Zorlu Center, Rick Owens is available in multi-brand stores like Beymen, and Alyx is also found in Beymen.

Question 18

Where in Istanbul can I buy spices?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended to buy spices at Makbul stores or at the Egyptian market, where they are always fresh.

Question 19

How much time do you need for the Museum of Innocence in Istanbul? Is it interesting for someone who hasn't read the book?

Accepted Answer

You will need enough time for the Museum of Innocence. Those who haven't read the book might find it uninteresting and unclear.

Question 20

Can you suggest a reliable eSIM in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

A reliable eSIM in Istanbul can be obtained through Trip.com or from operator M8, which provides good connectivity.

Question 21

What is the limit for bringing cash lira out of Turkey?

Accepted Answer

You can take out of Turkey a total of 10,000 euro in foreign currency and 185,000 lira in cash.

Question 22

When is the last ferry from Büyükada to Kabataş?

Accepted Answer

The last ferry from Büyükada to Kabataş departs at 21:45, except on Sundays.

Question 23

Where can I find currency exchange offices in İstinyePark or Emaar Square and what is the exchange rate there?

Accepted Answer

There is a currency exchange office in İstinyePark on the lower floors, but the rate will be 2-3 lira worse than at the Grand Bazaar. The exchange rate at the Grand Bazaar will be better.

Question 24

How much does an average lunch or dinner for two cost in Michelin-starred and regular restaurants in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Dinner for two at a regular restaurant in Istanbul costs around 2000-3000 lira with a glass of wine, while in social cafes, you can eat for about 200 lira per person.

Question 25

Are there ticket machines at the piers in Istanbul?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are ticket machines at the piers in Istanbul, but there are none on the ferries.

Question 26

Can I top up my Istanbulkart online, and if so, where?

Accepted Answer

Tourists cannot top up Istanbulkart online, but a Turkish citizen can add your card to their app and transfer money to it.

Question 27

How to get to the aquarium from Eminönü?

Accepted Answer

From Eminönü, you can reach the aquarium by taking the Marmaray train to Florya Akvaryum station, then walking 3-5 minutes.