One of the most important travel tips every first-time visitor to Istanbul should follow is getting an “Istanbul Kart” Card. While it is easy to get around the city using public transportation, it is not always safe. You should always keep valuables locked in your hotel room safe. You should also keep credit cards and money in different sections of your purse. If you are traveling by car, you should not leave anything on the front seat during stops and ensure that the doors are locked.
If you’re going to walk around, you should pay attention to your surroundings. While there are nearly 100 thousand police officers patrolling the city, it is always wise to be alert and aware.
Learn a few words of the language
The best way to learn Turkish is to learn a few words of the language. While most of the population speaks English, most people in Turkey rely on hand signals and gestures. It is recommended that you practice your Turkish before visiting the city, so you can get around with ease. Aside from learning a few words of the language, you should also learn to haggle when you’re shopping.
Use public transportation
Another useful travel tip is to make use of public transportation. Although it is tempting to take a taxi, it can be very expensive. If you want to explore other areas of the city, download an Istanbul travel app. You should also avoid grabbing cheap meals and drinks on the street – they can be quite dangerous. Stick to restaurants and hotels if possible. If you’re planning on buying souvenirs, it’s wise to check the prices before buying them.
It’s essential to walk when traveling in Istanbul. The city’s traffic is chaotic and you may get lost quickly. Walking is the best option for short distance trips, but you can also take a bus or metro. You should avoid taxis and buses if possible. If possible, avoid taking the bus if you can. You’ll be happier with public transportation.
A guide can also help you visit mosques
There are several rules you should follow when visiting a mosque. For instance, you must wait until the end of a prayer before entering. You should avoid Fridays. At the Blue Mosque, you should also remove your shoes before entering. Moreover, it’s best to avoid wearing your hat and not to walk around with your bare feet.
Don't be afraid to ask questions
Most Turks are Muslim, so a rude question about Islam is rude. If you’re in Istanbul, it’s best to ask a tour guide or museum guide to teach you about Islam and the culture. If you have trouble understanding Turkish, you can always learn some basic terms. It’s also important to be mindful of the language. There is a wide variety of languages spoken in the city.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world
It’s an intricate maze of alleys and stalls that cover an entire city. You’ll want to know how much the item you’d like to spend before you make a purchase. The price of items in Istanbul is usually very high. You’ll have to bargain for it, but it’s worth the effort.
Using a travel app is an excellent idea
It’s an excellent way to navigate Istanbul, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the language. It’s also convenient to download the Istanbul Travel App. You’ll find it easier to find a place when you don’t know the name of the place. Besides, you’ll be able to find specific shops with ease if you have a map.