Discover the best things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul Airport (IST) is a massive, shiny hub on the European side. It’s about 30–90 minutes depending on traffic to reach the old city centers by taxi. Don't let the distance surprise you. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is on the Asian side and mostly handles many low-cost and domestic flights. If you're flying in from Antalya, the flight takes barely an hour. Book a private transfer before you land to avoid the chaos at the taxi rank.

The T1 tram is your best friend. It cuts through the traffic and connects the major sites in Sultanahmet to the bazaar. But the real secret is the ferry. It’s the one of the cheapest boat ride's and crosses between Europe and Asia every 20 minutes. Get an Istanbulkart at the airport and keep it topped up. Avoid driving at all costs; the traffic here is legendary for being terrible.

Stay in Sultanahmet if you want to walk to the Blue Mosque and stay among the old stone houses. It’s heavy on the tourist vibes but convenient. If you want actual bars and a modern nightlife, stay in Beyoğlu near Taksim Square. For something better, find a boutique spot in Ortaköy right on the water. You'll wake up watching the ships move through the Bosphorus strait.

Many nationalities including UK, EU, and US can enter visa-free. Do it at evisa.gov.tr before you even pack your bag. It’s fast and costs free or about $50 vary by nationality. Don't wait until you arrive; the terminal queues are messy. Make sure your passport has at least six months left on it. If you have a valid US or Schengen visa, you might skip the fee entirely, so check the fine print.

You will walk more than you think. The streets in the old city are paved with uneven cobblestones that will destroy your feet in thin shoes. Bring real walking sneakers. Also, pack a light scarf. You’ll need it to cover your head and shoulders when visiting the mosques. Istanbul gets wet and cold in the winter, so bring a solid umbrella if you're visiting between October and April.