Turkish Lira: how much to take and where to change?
This updated guide helps you plan your Turkish Lira (TRY) strategy for Istanbul travel in 2026 with money-saving tips, real examples, and current best practices.
Best Outlet & Budget Shopping in Istanbul (2026 Guide): Where to Get Real Deals
From Viaport to Grand Bazaar, find the best budget shopping spots in Istanbul. Prices, brands, maps, discounts & travel tips inside.
Istanbul in December
December brings soft winter light, festive bazaars, steaming street food, intimate cultural events, and a calmer version of Istanbul that feels surprisingly romantic and incredibly local.
Family Metro Tips in Istanbul: Guide to Navigating the City with Kids
Istanbul’s metro is a family’s “magic carpet” for navigating the city. It’s safe, budget-friendly (kids under 6 ride free), and stroller-friendly with elevators. Using a rechargeable Istanbulkart makes it easy to bypass traffic and whisk your family between top attractions stress-free.
Istanbul Metro Map: Download PDF
Download the most detailed Istanbul metro map as a high-resolution image or PDF file. This guide helps you navigate the system, detailing major transfer hubs like Sultanahmet (for Hagia Sophia) and Taksim, ensuring you reach key landmarks efficiently.
Turkish Brands to Check
This guide unlocks the best of Turkish shopping, revealing the brands that offer an incredible mix of quality, style, and authenticity. We explore the cream of the crop, from luxury fashion and unique jewelry to stunning glassware and leather goods, helping you navigate Istanbul’s shopping scene like a local.
Istanbul in November
Istanbul in November is a hidden gem for travelers. This “shoulder season” offers significantly fewer crowds, lower hotel prices, and comfortable cool weather (10-15°C) perfect for exploring. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket to enjoy museums and the Grand Bazaar without the summer chaos.
The Spoonmaker’s Diamond: A Glittering Mystery in the Heart of Istanbul
Legend says Istanbul’s 86-carat Spoonmaker’s Diamond was found in the trash and traded for three spoons. Today, this magnificent gem is the star of the Topkapi Palace Imperial Treasury, a breathtaking symbol of Ottoman grandeur.
Istanbul Cevahir Mall: Your Complete Guide to Europe’s Shopping Giant
Istanbul Cevahir Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the world, is a massive retail and entertainment destination in the Şişli district. It features over 200 brands, a vast food court, and the Atlantis indoor theme park. It is conveniently accessible with direct entry from the Şişli metro station.
Your Complete Istanbul Biennale 2025 Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Welcome to the Istanbul Biennale! Where East meets West, ancient history collides with cutting-edge creativity, and this magnificent city transforms into a living, breathing canvas. Use this guide to navigate the groundbreaking 18th edition, securing an unforgettable artistic adventure.
Istanbul in October
October in Istanbul is considered the “sweet spot,” offering ideal sightseeing weather (mid-month average 17–20°C), thinner crowds, and lower prices than summer. It’s the perfect time for a Bosphorus cruise against a backdrop of autumn colors, visiting historic sites without long lines, and enjoying seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts (kestane kebap) and fresh pomegranate juice.
Safety for Solo Woman in Istanbul
Enhancing personal security in Istanbul involves developing situational awareness (noticing “anomalies” and trusting instincts) and confident body language. Solo female travelers should distribute cash and documents across secure locations, use official taxis or ride-sharing apps, and know that 112 is the European emergency number in Türkiye.
The Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
The Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, located on the Bosphorus shore near Tophane, is a premier destination for contemporary art. Founded in 2004, the 8,000-square-meter museum showcases a diverse range of Turkish and international artists, alongside a cinema, library, and restaurant with stunning views.
Istanbul in September
September is arguably the best month to visit Istanbul, offering a perfect balance of warm, sunny days (22–26°C) and significantly fewer tourist crowds than summer. The weather is ideal for walking, enjoying cultural events like the Istanbul Biennial or Akbank Jazz Festival, and taking a scenic Bosphorus cruise with comfortable breezes.
