Frequently Asked Questions About Istanbul

But before we start, here check out other 100+ attractions you can visit for FREE with Istanbul Tourist Pass®, and if you love history, don't forget to book your place for guided tours! Let's start digging into the answers to frequently asked questions about Istanbul. 

Is Istanbul a city?

Yes, although it is huge and crowded like a state itself, Istanbul is a city in Turkey. There are various neighborhoods in this huge city and each has its own local municipality, and there is one major municipality Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB).

Do I Have to Speak Turkish in Istanbul?

In Turkey, English is the most widely spoken foreign language. In all of the major cities, shopping malls, restaurants, and vacation resorts, you should have no trouble finding individuals who can speak English and assist you in getting about.

Also in recent years, Arabic is mostly spoken especially in touristy areas like Beyoglu and Eminonu. So visitors from all around Arabic geography prefer Istanbul for a great holiday.

What is the Dress Code of Istanbul?

Although exposing clothes is not particularly dominant in Istanbul, the Turkish dress sense is largely westernized. Turkey is accepting of various cultures and faiths since it is a secular state. Unless attending a mosque, where scarves are generally available to borrow, female visitors are not required to wear a headscarf.

In summer, women are wearing shorts, mini skirts, or crop tops in central neighborhoods like Besiktas or Kadikoy, but you may go for longer options in clothing in other areas of the city. Men generally wear pants or long shorts. Actually, you can wear what you like in this cosmopolitan city just like in any other Western country. It is a good idea to have long skirts or pants for visiting a mosque like the Hagia Sophia, but in case you don’t have those, you can buy or borrow them at the entrance to touristy mosques. 

Is Istanbul a Safe City?

Istanbul is a safe city in comparison to most Western nations. Foreigners are seldom victims of serious crime, and few tourists to the city have any difficulties. There are some pickpockets and frauds operating (especially in tourist-heavy locations), so proceed with care. It is always to be careful but don't worry too much because Istanbul is a city that never sleeps just like New York so you won't probably be alone in central areas at night even if you want. 

Do I Have to Exchange Money in Istanbul?

Despite the fact that Euros are accepted in certain bigger shops and tourist locations, it is usually preferable to deal with the Turkish Lira. If you convert money in Turkey, the rates are usually always better, and a smart approach is to bring enough local currency for the first day or two, then change the remainder once you arrive. Alternatively, ATM machines may be found throughout the city, and anyone with a credit or debit card should have no trouble getting cash. Here's where you can learn more about the Turkish lira.

What is the Best Way to Visit the City?

There are a variety of methods to see the city, but buying a tourist card will make things much simpler. Tourist cards may assist you with any museum visit while also allowing you to save money. The Istanbul Tourist Pass® is Istanbul's first and most trustworthy tourist pass, with over 100 attractions to choose from throughout your stay. With an Istanbul Tourist Pass, you can save over 50% and see the city's most famous sites including Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and more with a guide. In just a few easy clicks, you can buy your Istanbul Tourist Pass® on our website!

How can I travel from Istanbul's European to the Asian Side?

There are buses, metrobuses, and dolmus that run between the European and Asian sections of Istanbul, but the boat is the cheapest and most convenient option. Eminönü-Kadıköy and Besiktas-Kabatas are two useful ferry ports.

There is also a metro line called Marmaray which is running under the Bosphorus between two sides of this beautiful city. So there is no reason to visit both sides and join the attractions included in the Istanbul Tourist Pass®.

Let’s list some other FAQs here:

Istanbul is one of the most visited cities in the world. Every year millions of visitors from all around the world come to this beautiful city for different reasons. So, for the people who are curious about this amazing city, we picked some of the most popular questions and answered them for you.