Category: Istanbul FAQ

Yes, Istanbul is generally safe for Americans and other international travelers, with thousands visiting each year without incident. The city is a popular tourist destination and, like any major global city, has infrastructure in place to ensure the safety of its visitors. However, as with any travel, it’s important to stay vigilant, be aware of…

Whether or not to rent a car in Istanbul is a decision dependent on several factors, including the duration of your stay, your comfort with driving in foreign countries, and your planned itinerary. While renting a car offers flexibility, the city’s extensive public transportation network, traffic congestion, and challenging parking conditions can make other modes…

The official currency of Istanbul, like the rest of Turkey, is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Denoted by the symbol ₺, the Lira is the principal medium of exchange for goods and services in the city. The Turkish Lira is divided into subunits known as kuruş, with 100 kuruş making up one Lira. Coins are available…

There are so many cats in Istanbul due to a combination of historical, cultural, and religious factors that have fostered a unique communal cat-keeping system. This system, alongside the temperate climate and the city’s geography, has allowed the cat population to flourish. History: Cats and Constantinople The historical roots of Istanbul’s cat population trace back…

Discover the vibrant and diverse LGBT+ scene in Istanbul, Turkey. Explore the legal rights, social acceptance, and attitudes towards the community.

Turkey is known for its food and drinks. This country attracts many visitors and tourists to get a bite from their delicious foods and drink as low as a sip or as much as a bowl to cool off in hot summer or warm their bodies in freezing winter. Turkey is proud that despite the…

Istanbul is a popular city with many neighborhoods to choose from. It offers options for every budget and is a dream come true for millions of ex-pats. In this article, I will highlight the best places to live in Istanbul based on personal experience and feedback from other ex-pats. Join me and let’s explore. When…

Unfolding as a captivating blend of Asian and European influences, Istanbul offers a vibrant mix of history, food, and culture that draws tourists from around the globe. Despite its myriad of charms, there are ‘things to avoid in Istanbul’ to make your trip memorable for all the right reasons. Here are some essential points to…

The best times to visit Istanbul are Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to mid-November), when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the city’s iconic sites and the opportunity to avoid the peak tourist season. However, each season has its own charm, and…