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.
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.
Nişantaşı is Istanbul’s most elegant and high-fashion district, perfectly blending Ottoman history with cosmopolitan flair. Nicknamed the “target stone” neighborhood, it is centered around Abdi İpekçi Street—the home of luxury boutiques, fine dining, and prestigious architecture. Explore the Teşvikiye Mosque and Maçka Park to enjoy this stylish, walkable, and culturally rich enclave.
Navigating Istanbul is easy with taxis, offering yellow, turquoise, and black/luxury options with metered fares. In 2025, yellow taxis start at ₺42 (~€0.96), with per-kilometer rates at ₺28 (~€0.64). Airport transfers range from ~₺340–₺438 from Istanbul Airport and ~₺725–₺1,065 from Sabiha Gökçen. Use official taxis or pre-booked services like GetTransfer, Kiwitaxi, and BiTaksi for safety, clear fares, and convenience. Always check the meter, know your route, and follow local customs for a smooth ride.
This 3-day Istanbul guide balances iconic landmarks and modern life. Day 1 covers historic Sultanahmet (Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace). Day 2 features the Bosphorus, Istiklal Street, and Galata Tower. Day 3 explores the Asian Side’s local life in Kadıköy and the views from Çamlıca Hill.
Escape Istanbul’s crowds and discover Gebze, just an hour away. Explore Byzantine castles, lush nature parks, local bazaars, and authentic Turkish cuisine. Perfect for history buffs, adventure seekers, and families, this off-the-beaten-path day trip offers a refreshing blend of culture, nature, and local charm near Istanbul.
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.
There is NO 24/7 service, though the M2 line may have extended hours (until 2:00 or 3:00 AM) on Fridays and Saturdays. After midnight, rely on IETT Night Buses or use reputable apps for taxis/ride-sharing to travel safely to your destination.
Beyoglu is Istanbul’s vibrant heart, a bustling district renowned for its electric nightlife, diverse shopping, and rich culture. Centered around the iconic Istiklal Avenue and Galata Tower, it offers a captivating blend of trendy bars, contemporary art galleries, historic landmarks, and a diverse culinary scene.
Istanbul’s Kabataş–Taksim funicular (Füniküler) is a vital, high-speed connector. In just minutes, it links the Kabataş T1 tram and ferry port on the Bosphorus to Taksim Square. At Taksim, passengers can transfer directly to the M1 metro, buses, and the historic Istiklal Street tram.
Şişli is a vibrant European-side district, serving as a major commercial and residential center. It is home to Cevahir Mall, the upscale boutiques of Nişantaşı, and cultural landmarks like the Atatürk Museum and the Şişli Mosque. Highly accessible via the Şişli-Mecidiyeköy transport hub, it offers a dynamic blend of history, high fashion, and culinary excellence.
Sultanahmet is the ultimate tourist hub, home to UNESCO wonders like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque). This historic district puts Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar all within walking distance. For the best access, use the HVIST-12 bus route from the airport, but book your centrally located hotel in advance!
Stand before the Column of Constantine (Çemberlitaş), the massive, hoop-wrapped remnant of Constantinople’s ancient forum. Built in 330 AD to celebrate the city’s founding, this porphyry monolith was once topped by a statue of Emperor Constantine as Apollo. Located on Divan Yolu Street, it remains a potent, fire-marked symbol of the Byzantine Empire’s immense history.
Karaköy, once a historic port, is now Istanbul’s vibrant hub for art and gastronomy, located near Galata Tower. This trendy district features beautiful architecture, including the Süleymaniye Mosque, and is home to the Istanbul Modern art museum and numerous hip cafes. It’s perfect for sampling delicious cuisine and shopping unique boutiques.
