🇹🇷 Your Tailored 3-Day Istanbul, Turkey Itinerary

Begin your day in Sultanahmet Square, the former site of the Roman Hippodrome. Here you can see the ancient Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column. Your first major stop is the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque). Remember to dress modestly and be mindful of prayer times when visiting. Next, cross the square to the magnificent Hagia Sophia. Originally a cathedral, then a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again, its history is as vast as its interior. Spend ample time marveling at its grand dome and the stunning Christian mosaics that have been preserved within.

After a lunch break, dedicate your afternoon to the sprawling Topkapi Palace, the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Purchase a ticket that includes the Harem, which is a fascinating and beautiful part of the complex that should not be missed. Explore the four main courtyards, the Imperial Treasury with its famous dagger and diamond, and the various pavilions offering stunning views of the Bosphorus. For a final touch of history, visit the nearby Basilica Cistern, an ancient, atmospheric underground reservoir with its famous Medusa heads.

Young Travelers: After a day of history, young travelers can explore the lively cafes and restaurants around the Sultanahmet area or head towards Sirkeci for a more local vibe. In the evening, they might enjoy finding a rooftop bar with a view of the illuminated Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. The Basilica Cistern’s moody lighting and eerie atmosphere will also be a major highlight.

Seniors: Sultanahmet is a large area with a lot of walking. It is wise to use the T1 tram line, which stops directly in Sultanahmet, to minimize fatigue. Both Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are large but flat inside. Topkapi Palace is vast; consider focusing on the first two courtyards and the Harem, and make use of the many benches for rest. A licensed private guide can help navigate the sites efficiently and provide insightful commentary.

Families: Turn the day into an imperial treasure hunt. In the Blue Mosque, kids can count the tiles. In Hagia Sophia, the sheer scale is impressive. Topkapi Palace offers lots of open space for kids to explore, and the stories of the sultans and the dazzling jewels in the treasury will capture their imagination. The Basilica Cistern, with its giant fish swimming in the water and mysterious Medusa heads, is always a huge hit with children.

Travelers with Disabilities: The Sultanahmet area is relatively flat, but the cobblestones can be a challenge. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are largely accessible on the ground floor. The Basilica Cistern has recently been made more accessible with elevators. Topkapi Palace has accessible routes through the first few courtyards, but the Harem and inner pavilions have steps and narrow passages. It is best to check the official websites for the most current accessibility information.

Luxury Travel: Hire a private historian guide for an exclusive, in-depth tour of the sites, allowing you to skip the long ticket lines at Topkapi Palace. Travel between sites can be arranged with a private vehicle. In the evening, dine at a gourmet restaurant in a luxury hotel like the Four Seasons Sultanahmet, which is housed in a former prison and offers stunning views and world-class cuisine.

Adventure Travel: After the main sites, get lost in the labyrinthine streets behind the main square. Find a local teahouse (çay bahçesi) and experience the city at a local pace. In the afternoon, instead of just the main Topkapi exhibits, seek out the less-visited Istanbul Archaeological Museums, located within the palace grounds, to see incredible artifacts like the Alexander Sarcophagus.

Nature & Eco-Travel: Between visiting the historical sites, take a peaceful break in Gülhane Park, the former outer gardens of Topkapi Palace. It’s a beautiful green oasis perfect for a quiet stroll and a cup of tea. Appreciate the centuries-old trees and beautiful flower displays, offering a natural respite from the magnificent but overwhelming stone monuments of the empires.

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet – Housed in a beautifully converted century-old prison, this hotel offers unparalleled luxury and service in an unbeatable location, just steps from the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Its charming courtyard and stunning rooftop lounge make for an unforgettable stay.

Mid-Range: Sirkeci Mansion – A highly-rated hotel known for its exceptional hospitality, comfortable rooms, and fantastic amenities, including an indoor pool and Turkish bath. Located in the charming Sirkeci neighborhood, it’s a quiet retreat within easy walking distance of all the Sultanahmet sights and the Spice Bazaar.

Budget: Agora Guesthouse – A friendly and welcoming guesthouse offering both private rooms and dorms in the heart of Sultanahmet. It’s famous for its magnificent buffet breakfast served on its rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the Blue Mosque and the Sea of Marmara. It’s a perfect budget choice for location and atmosphere.

The key to a successful day in Sultanahmet is to start early and purchase a Museum Pass Istanbul if you plan to visit multiple state-run museums. Arriving at Topkapi Palace right when it opens can help you avoid the massive crowds that build up later in the day. Be aware of the prayer times for the Blue Mosque, as it closes to tourists for about 90 minutes during each of the five daily prayers. You can check the prayer times online or on a sign outside the mosque.

Be respectful of the dress code when entering mosques. Women must cover their heads; scarves are provided for free at the entrance if you don’t have your own. Both men and women should have their shoulders and knees covered. You will also need to remove your shoes before entering, so wearing shoes that are easy to slip on and off is convenient. Listen for the beautiful call to prayer (ezan) that echoes across the square; it’s a truly evocative sound of the city.

Wear comfortable, broken-in walking shoes. Today involves a significant amount of walking on uneven and cobblestoned surfaces. Dress modestly out of respect for the religious sites you will be visiting. This means both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Long, lightweight trousers, capris, or a long skirt are excellent choices. Women should carry a light scarf (a pashmina is perfect) to cover their head when entering the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

The weather in Istanbul can be variable, so layers are a good idea. A t-shirt or blouse with a light cardigan or jacket that you can easily take off is ideal. In summer, the sun can be intense, so a sun hat and sunglasses are highly recommended. A small, comfortable daypack is useful for carrying your scarf, water bottle, and any souvenirs you might pick up.

For lunch, the Sultanahmet area has many restaurants, but some can be tourist traps. For a delicious and authentic meal, try a restaurant specializing in “ev yemekleri” (home-style cooking) or a “lokanta” (a simple eatery where you can point to pre-prepared dishes). One excellent choice is Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta, a famous and historic restaurant serving simple but delicious grilled meatballs (köfte). It’s a local institution and a perfect spot for a quick, tasty, and affordable lunch.

For dinner, you have a wealth of options. For a meal with a view, consider one of the many rooftop restaurants in the area that offer stunning panoramas of the illuminated mosques. For a special treat, book a table at a restaurant like Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine, which serves historical dishes from the Ottoman court, providing a culinary experience that perfectly complements your day of historical exploration. It’s a chance to literally taste history.

The Sultanahmet area is compact and best explored on foot. To get there, the most efficient method is the T1 tram line. It runs from the modern parts of the city, crosses the Galata Bridge, and has a stop named “Sultanahmet,” which drops you right in the middle of the action. All the main sites for today—the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace—are within a 5-10 minute walk of each other.

To get around Istanbul in general, purchase an “Istanbulkart” from one of the yellow ticket machines (Biletmatik) at any major station or stop. This is a rechargeable contactless card that gives you a discounted price on all forms of public transport, including trams, metros, ferries, and buses. It’s much cheaper and more convenient than buying single-journey tokens.

Start your morning in the bustling Eminönü district. Your first stop is the magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque. Designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan for Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, it is considered one of the finest examples of Ottoman imperial architecture. It’s less crowded than the Blue Mosque and offers stunning views of the Golden Horn and Bosphorus. Afterward, walk downhill to the Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı). Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, sampling Turkish delight (lokum), nuts, and dried fruits, and admiring the colorful mounds of spices.

From the ferry docks at Eminönü, embark on a public Bosphorus cruise. The “Short Circle Cruise” offered by the official Şehir Hatları ferry company is an excellent and affordable option, taking about 2 hours. This cruise takes you up the strait towards the second bridge and back, passing landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Ortaköy Mosque, and the Rumeli Fortress. In the afternoon, after the cruise, prepare to get lost in the legendary Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı). Enter through one of its many gates and wander through its maze-like alleys, browsing for everything from carpets and lamps to leather goods and ceramics.

Young Travelers: After the Bosphorus cruise, young travelers might enjoy exploring the vibrant student neighborhood of Beşiktaş or the chic seaside village of Ortaköy, famous for its iconic mosque and lively atmosphere. Inside the Grand Bazaar, they will enjoy the thrill of haggling and searching for unique, handmade jewelry or vintage items. The evening could be spent exploring the lively bar scene in the nearby Karaköy district.

Seniors: The Süleymaniye Mosque is a great alternative to the Blue Mosque, as it’s often quieter. The Bosphorus cruise is a perfect activity, as it allows for extensive sightseeing from a comfortable, seated position. The Grand Bazaar can be overwhelming. Seniors might prefer to visit with a guide who can navigate the maze, or focus on a few specific sections near a main entrance to avoid getting lost in the overwhelming crowds. A visit to the Spice Bazaar is often more manageable and just as atmospheric.

Families: The Spice Bazaar is a wonderland for children, with its colorful sweets and friendly vendors offering samples. The ferry ride on the Bosphorus is a huge hit with families; kids love being on the water and spotting the palaces and castles. The Grand Bazaar can be intense for young children, so a short, focused visit is best. Afterward, a visit to a traditional Turkish sweet shop for some baklava is a perfect family treat.

Travelers with Disabilities: The Eminönü ferry docks and the public Şehir Hatları ferries are generally accessible. The cruise is a fantastic accessible sightseeing option. The Spice Bazaar is on one level and relatively easy to navigate, though it can be crowded. The Grand Bazaar is more challenging due to its uneven floors, crowds, and small, cluttered shops. The Süleymaniye Mosque has a large, flat courtyard, but access to the main prayer hall involves steps.

Luxury Travel: Instead of the public ferry, charter a private yacht for a bespoke Bosphorus cruise. This allows you to set your own itinerary, stop for a swim in a quiet bay, and enjoy a gourmet lunch or champagne on board. For your bazaar experience, arrange for a private shopping guide who can take you to the finest, most reputable dealers for high-quality carpets, jewelry, or antiques in the hidden courtyards (hans) of the Grand Bazaar.

Adventure Travel: Take the Bosphorus ferry all the way to the final stop, Anadolu Kavağı, a small fishing village near the Black Sea. Here you can hike up to the ruins of Yoros Castle for spectacular views. In the afternoon, instead of just the main arteries of the Grand Bazaar, seek out the hidden workshops and craftsmen in the surrounding “hans” (historic commercial inns), where you can see artisans at work, a more authentic and less touristy experience.

Nature & Eco-Travel: The Bosphorus cruise is a great way to appreciate the unique geography of the city. As you sail, look for the flocks of yelkouan shearwaters that skim the waves. After the cruise, take a ferry from Eminönü to the Asian side and visit the Fethi Paşa Korusu, a beautiful public park on a steep hillside offering stunning views of the Bosphorus and a peaceful, natural escape from the city’s hustle.

Staying in the same hotel for all three nights is the most convenient approach for a short city break. Your hotel in the Sultanahmet or Sirkeci area provides a perfect base, as today’s starting point at Eminönü is just a short walk or one tram stop away.

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Mid-Range: Sirkeci Mansion

Budget: Agora Guesthouse

The Grand Bazaar is an exhilarating but potentially overwhelming experience. Have a plan before you enter. Know what you might be interested in buying and have a general idea of its value. Bargaining is an essential part of the culture here. The first price you are quoted is just a starting point. A good rule of thumb is to counter with about 50% of the asking price and work your way up to a mutually agreeable figure. Always be polite, smile, and be prepared to walk away if you can’t get the price you want. The process should be a fun and friendly interaction, not a confrontation.

When taking the Bosphorus cruise, choose a seat on the outer deck for the best, unobstructed views and photo opportunities. The scenery changes on both sides, so you might want to switch sides on the return journey. The official Şehir Hatları ferries offer the most authentic and affordable experience. Be wary of private tour operators near the docks who can be very pushy; the official ticket booth is clearly marked. Grab a “simit” (a sesame bread ring) from a vendor near the dock to enjoy on board, just like the locals do.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential for a day of exploring the bazaars and walking to and from the ferry docks. You will be visiting the Süleymaniye Mosque, so the same rules of modest dress apply as for Day 1: shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women, and women will need a headscarf. Since you will be on a boat, a windproof jacket is highly recommended, as it can be windy and cool on the Bosphorus, even on a sunny day.

The bazaars can get very crowded, so it’s a good idea to wear a cross-body bag or a backpack worn on your front to keep your valuables secure. The day is a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, so layers are once again your best friend. Sun protection is important for the boat trip, so don’t forget your hat and sunglasses.

The area around the Spice Bazaar is a paradise for food lovers. For an iconic lunch, head to the small plaza just outside the bazaar to find vendors selling “balık-ekmek” (a grilled fish sandwich), a classic Istanbul street food experience. For a more relaxed sit-down meal, Hamdi Restaurant, located next to the Spice Bazaar, is famous for its delicious kebabs from Southeast Turkey and offers spectacular views of the Golden Horn from its upper floors (reservations recommended).

Inside the Grand Bazaar, you can find simple but excellent “lokantas” that have been serving shopkeepers for generations. A great choice is Havuzlu Restaurant, a hidden gem inside the bazaar. For dinner, consider crossing the Galata Bridge to the Karaköy neighborhood. It’s a vibrant area with a fantastic dining scene, from trendy modern restaurants to historic establishments like Karaköy Lokantası, renowned for its beautifully prepared Turkish cuisine in a stunning turquoise-tiled dining room.

From your hotel in Sultanahmet, the Eminönü district, where the Spice Bazaar and the Bosphorus ferry docks are located, is a pleasant 15-minute walk downhill or a very short ride on the T1 tram (Sultanahmet to Eminönü stop). The Süleymaniye Mosque is a 10-15 minute uphill walk from the Spice Bazaar. After your Bosphorus cruise, the Grand Bazaar is another 10-15 minute uphill walk from Eminönü. The entire day’s itinerary is well-connected and easily manageable on foot or with short tram rides.

The Bosphorus cruise itself is your main mode of transport for a significant part of the day. The official Şehir Hatları ferry terminal is located at Eminönü, to the left of the Galata Bridge as you face the water. The timetables are clearly displayed. Simply buy your ticket, board the ferry, and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the city from its most important waterway.

Start your day by walking across the historic Galata Bridge from Eminönü to Karaköy. Enjoy the views and watch the fishermen lining the rails. Your first stop is the magnificent Galata Tower. Take the elevator to the top for one of the best 360-degree panoramic views of Istanbul, encompassing the Golden Horn, the historic peninsula, the Bosphorus, and the Asian side. After descending, wander through the charming streets of the Galata neighborhood, with its quirky boutiques and music shops.

Make your way uphill to the southern end of Istiklal Avenue. This 1.4-kilometer-long pedestrian street is the heart of modern Istanbul. Stroll along its entire length, taking in the beautiful late-Ottoman era architecture. Look for historic passages like the Flower Passage (Çiçek Pasajı) and historic buildings like the St. Anthony of Padua Church. The avenue ends at the famous Taksim Square, the symbolic heart of the modern Turkish Republic. For a touch of culture, consider visiting a museum just off Istiklal, such as the Pera Museum or the SALT Galata art gallery.

Young Travelers: The Beyoğlu district is the perfect playground. They will love the vibrant street art in the lanes off Istiklal, the vintage shops in the Çukurcuma neighborhood, and the general bohemian vibe. The area is packed with cool cafes for a “third-wave” coffee break. The evening can be spent at a rooftop bar (a “meyhane”) in the Asmalımescit area, enjoying mezes, rakı, and live music.

Seniors: The walk across the Galata Bridge is flat and scenic. The elevator at Galata Tower makes the view accessible to everyone. To explore Istiklal Avenue without walking its entire length, you can ride the charming historic red tram (Nostaljik Tramvay) from one end to the other. The area has many historic patisseries, like Hafiz Mustafa 1864, which are perfect for a relaxing break with tea and Turkish sweets.

Families: The Galata Tower is an exciting “castle” to visit. Riding the historic tram on Istiklal Avenue is a fun experience for kids. The street is also full of tempting sweet shops and ice cream vendors. A fantastic family activity in this area is a visit to the Rahmi M. Koç Museum on the Golden Horn, a wonderful industrial museum with planes, trains, and submarines that is fascinating for all ages.

Travelers with Disabilities: The Galata Bridge has a wide, flat pedestrian walkway. The Galata Tower has an elevator to the top, but the final outdoor viewing platform is a narrow, crowded circular walkway. Istiklal Avenue is a wide, pedestrianized street that is generally easy to navigate, and the historic tram is accessible. The Tünel funicular is also an accessible way to get up the steep hill from Karaköy to Istiklal.

Luxury Travel: After the Galata Tower, explore the upscale boutiques and art galleries in the Karaköy and Galata neighborhoods. Take a private guided tour focusing on the 19th-century architecture of Pera. Enjoy lunch at a sophisticated restaurant like Neolokal at Salt Galata, which offers contemporary Anatolian cuisine with stunning views. The day can conclude with high tea at the historic Pera Palace Hotel, where Agatha Christie wrote “Murder on the Orient Express.”

Adventure Travel: For a true urban adventure, explore the gritty and fascinating neighborhoods of Fener and Balat on the Golden Horn. This is the former Greek Orthodox and Jewish quarter, a hilly maze of colorful, crumbling old houses, steep streets, and hidden churches. It’s a photographer’s dream and offers a glimpse into a very different, less-touristy side of Istanbul. This requires a good amount of walking and a sense of discovery.

Nature & Eco-Travel: After Istiklal Avenue, find a green escape at Gezi Park, next to Taksim Square. For a longer nature walk, take a ferry up the Golden Horn to Eyüp and then take the cable car up to Pierre Loti Hill. This famous spot, named after the French novelist, offers beautiful, tranquil views of the entire Golden Horn waterway, surrounded by a historic cemetery and tall cypress trees.

This is your departure day. Storing your luggage at your hotel after check-out is the best option for a hassle-free final day of exploration. Your hotel in Sultanahmet/Sirkeci is well-connected to the Beyoğlu district via the T1 tram line.

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Mid-Range: Sirkeci Mansion

Budget: Agora Guesthouse

Istiklal Avenue is the city’s main artery and can get incredibly crowded, especially on weekends and in the evenings. While it’s a safe place, be mindful of your belongings in the dense crowds, just as you would in any major city. To get a feel for the real soul of the neighborhood, be sure to duck into the many side streets and passages (pasaj) that branch off from the main avenue. This is where you will find hidden courtyards, historic churches, quirky shops, and more atmospheric cafes.

To get from the Karaköy side of the Galata Bridge up the steep hill to the Galata Tower and Istiklal Avenue, use the Tünel. It’s the world’s second-oldest subterranean urban rail line, dating back to 1875. It’s a quick, fun, and historic funicular railway that saves you a very steep walk. Your Istanbulkart is valid for the journey. It’s a charming and practical piece of living history.

Today is your day to explore the modern, cosmopolitan side of Istanbul, so you can dress in a smart-casual style. Comfortable shoes remain essential as you will still be doing a lot of walking. The streets are paved, but the area is hilly. Since you are not visiting any active mosques today, there is no need for a headscarf unless you choose to enter a smaller local one. The general rule of modest and respectful dress is still a good guideline.

The weather can be windy, especially on the Galata Bridge and at the top of the Galata Tower, so a light jacket or windbreaker is a good idea. In the evening, the Beyoğlu district has a vibrant nightlife, so you might want to wear a slightly dressier outfit if you plan on visiting a nice restaurant or a rooftop bar for your farewell dinner.

The Beyoğlu district is a food lover’s paradise. For a fantastic lunch experience, head to a “meyhane” in the Asmalımescit or Nevizade streets. These are traditional taverns where you can choose from a huge display of delicious cold and hot mezes (appetizers), followed by grilled fish or meat. It’s a relaxed and social way to eat. Alternatively, the streets are full of vendors selling delicious “döner kebab” wraps and “ıslak” (wet) burgers for a quick and tasty bite.

For your farewell dinner, you are spoiled for choice. For a meal with a spectacular view, book a table at a rooftop restaurant like Mikla, which offers contemporary Anatolian cuisine and panoramic city vistas. For a more traditional and historic experience, dine at the Pera Palace Hotel or find a classic meyhane for a lively night of food, rakı, and music. Don’t forget to try some of the historic patisseries in the area, like Saray Muhallebicisi, for a final taste of Turkish desserts.

From Sultanahmet, take the T1 tram across the Galata Bridge to the Karaköy stop. From here, the Galata Tower is a short but steep uphill walk. To avoid the climb, you can take the historic Tünel funicular from Karaköy up to the end of Istiklal Avenue. Istiklal Avenue itself is a pedestrian street, best explored on foot or by taking the historic red tram that runs along its length. The whole area is a very walkable and well-connected district.

After exploring, you can easily get back to the old city by taking the T1 tram from Karaköy or by taking the M2 metro line from Taksim or Şişhane stations, which connects to other parts of the city. For your departure, the Havabus airport shuttle buses run frequently from a stop near Taksim Square, offering a reliable and affordable transfer to both of Istanbul’s major airports (IST and SAW).

A quintessential Turkish wellness experience is a visit to a hammam, or Turkish bath. This ancient tradition of cleansing and relaxation is a must-do. The experience typically involves relaxing in a hot, steamy room, followed by a vigorous scrub with a coarse mitt (kese) by an attendant, and then being covered in a mountain of soap bubbles for a massage. You leave feeling incredibly clean and relaxed. Historic hammams like the Çemberlitaş Hamamı or the Cağaloğlu Hamamı offer an authentic and beautiful setting for this unique cultural and wellness ritual.

Packing for Istanbul requires layers and comfortable shoes. Even in summer, evenings can be cool, so a light jacket or cardigan is essential. Pack lightweight clothing, but include modest options (covering shoulders and knees) for visiting mosques. Women should pack a light scarf for this purpose. A comfortable pair of walking shoes is your most important item. Include a sun hat and sunscreen for sunny days. A reusable water bottle, a portable power bank, and a universal travel adapter (Type F) are also highly recommended.

Istanbul is a shopping paradise. The Grand Bazaar is a must-visit for its sheer scale and variety, perfect for finding Turkish carpets (kilims), colorful lamps, ceramics, and leather goods. The Spice Bazaar is the best place for Turkish delight, baklava, spices, and teas. For more modern, high-end shopping, visit Istiklal Avenue or one of the city’s large malls like Zorlu Center or Istinye Park. For unique, locally designed goods, explore the small boutiques in the Galata and Karaköy neighborhoods. Remember to bargain politely in the bazaars.

Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries, including the USA, Canada, and Australia, require an e-Visa, which can be easily obtained online before travel from the official government website. Citizens of many European countries can enter visa-free. Always check the latest official requirements for your specific passport before booking your trip.

The official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). While some tourist areas may accept Euros or Dollars, you will get a much better rate by paying in Lira. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and modern shops.

Istanbul is a major global city and is generally safe for tourists. Take standard precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas like the bazaars, Istiklal Avenue, and on public transport. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering to take you to a bar, as this can be part of a scam. Stick to reputable, well-lit areas at night.

From the main Istanbul Airport (IST), the Havaist airport shuttle bus is a comfortable, reliable, and affordable option with routes to major hubs like Taksim and Sultanahmet. Taxis are also available. From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), the Havabus shuttle is the equivalent service.

Yes, absolutely. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card that makes using all public transport (trams, metros, ferries, buses) much cheaper and more convenient than buying single tickets. You can buy and top up the card at yellow machines at major stations.

When visiting mosques, both men and women must dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), and women must cover their heads. Scarves and coverings are usually provided at the entrance. In the rest of the city, you can dress as you would in any major European city, though overly revealing clothing is uncommon.

In restaurants, it is customary to tip around 10% of the bill for good service. It is best to leave the tip in cash on the table. For taxi drivers, it is common to simply round up the fare to a convenient amount.

It is generally recommended that tourists drink bottled water, which is cheap and widely available. While tap water is chlorinated and technically safe, it may not agree with all visitors’ stomachs. It is fine for brushing your teeth.

Bargaining (haggling) is expected in the Grand Bazaar and other markets, but not in modern shops or restaurants with fixed prices. Start by offering about half of the asking price and negotiate politely from there. It should be a friendly and enjoyable interaction.

The Museum Pass Istanbul is a card that provides single entry to numerous state-run museums, including Topkapi Palace & Harem, the Galata Tower, and the Archaeological Museums. It can save you money and, more importantly, allows you to skip the often long ticket-buying queues at each site.