Things to Know About Istanbul

Istanbul is the most famous city in turkey. Yet, people don´t consider it the capital of the Turkish Republic. Instead, it is the hub of everything in Turkey. From history to the economy, finance to trade, and many more. So join us to discover Istanbul´s every part you deserve to visit while you´re on your trip.

Updated Date : 15.01.2022

General Information About Istanbul

There are some countries in the World that the capitals and the most famous cities don't match. Istanbul is one of them. Being the most famous city of Turkey, it is no more the capital of the Turkish Republic. It is the center of everything in Turkey. History, economy, finance, trade, and many more. That has to be why out of 80 million people, 15 million of them chose this city to live in. What about discovering this gorgeous city unique for its location between Europe and Asia with the Istanbul E-pass? There are lots to discover. Don't be late for this beautiful experience with the most customer-friendly method of the travel industry.

History Of Istanbul

When it comes to history in this fantastic city, the records tell us that the oldest evidence of settlements dates back to 400.000 BCE. Starting from the Paleolithic Era to Ottoman Era, there is a continuous life in Istanbul. The main reason for such a great history in this city comes from its unique location between Europe and Asia. With the help of two important straights, Bosphorus and Dardanelles, it becomes a bridge between two continents. Every civilization that passes from this city left something behind. Then, what can a traveler see in this beautiful city? Starting from archeological sites to Byzantine churches, from Ottoman mosques to Jewish synagogues, from European style palaces to Turkish fortresses. Everything awaits for just two things: an ambitious traveler and Istanbul E-pass. Let the Istanbul E-pass guide you through the history and mystery of this one-of-a-kind city in the World.

History of Istanbul

Best Times to Visit Istanbul

Istanbul is a tourism city throughout the year. When it comes to weather, summer starts in April, and the temperatures are suitable up until November. By December, the temperatures are starting to down, and generally, by February, there is snow in Istanbul. The high season for tourism is between April and September. In winter, the city may be cold, but snow decorates the city like a painting. All in all, it is up to the visitor's taste to choose when to visit this amazing city.

What to wear in Istanbul

It is an important subject to know what to wear in Turkey before starting the trip. Although Turkey is a Muslim country and the dress code is strict, the truth is slightly different. The majority of the people living in Turkey are Muslim, but as the country is a secular country, the government doesn't have an official religion. As a result, there is not a dress code we can suggest throughout Turkey. Another fact is, Turkey is a tourism country. The locals already get used to travelers, and they are pretty sympathetic to them. When it comes to a recommendation about what to wear, smart casual will work throughout the country. When it comes to religious sights, modest clothes would be another recommendation. Modest clothes in a religious sight in Turkey would be long skirts and a scarf for ladies and pants lower the knee for the gentleman.

Currency in Turkey

The official currency of the Turkish Republic is the Turkish Lira. Being accepted in most tourist sites in Istanbul, Euros or dollars will not be accepted everywhere, especially for public transportation. Credit cards are commonly accepted, but they may ask for cash in Lira for little snacks or water. It is better to use the change offices near the Grand Bazaar because of rates in Istanbul. There are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 TL notes in Turkey. Also, there is Kurus which is in coins. 100 Kuruş makes 1 TL. There are 10, 25, 50, and 1 TL in coins.

Currency in Turkey

The Final Word

If it is the first time, you are visiting Istanbul, knowing before going proves a blessing. The information mentioned above helps you be at the right place at the right time in the right clothes. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What language is spoken in Istanbul?

    The official language of Istanbul is the Turkish language. However, many people in the city also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

  • What are the most important things to know before traveling to Istanbul?

    If you plan to visit Istanbul you must know about the following things:

    1. History Of Istanbul to know which are the best historical places to visit

    2. Best times to visit Istanbul to enjoy to the fullest

    3. What to wear in Istanbul

    4. Currency in Turkey

  • Do you have to follow the Islamic dress code in Istanbul?

    Like some of the other Islamic countries out there, Turkey does not restrict their visitors to follow a dress code, and in fact, the government does not has a religion. In addition, a large number of people in Turkey are secular. So no, your dress code does not have to be strictly Islamic while traveling in Istanbul.

  • Which currency do you use in Istanbul?

    The currency that works in Istanbul and other cities of Turkey is the Turkish Lira. There are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 TL notes in notes and coins, 10 kurus, 25 kurus, 50 kurus, and 1 TL.

  • What type of weather do we have in Istanbul?

    In Istanbul, we have summers that start in April, and the temperature remains favorable till November. On the other hand, the winters begin in December, and it generally snows in February. 

Popular Istanbul E-pass Attractions

Guided Tour Topkapi Palace Museum Guided Tour

Topkapi Palace Museum Guided Tour Price without pass €52 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Guided Tour Hagia Sophia (Outer Explanation) Guided Tour

Hagia Sophia (Outer Explanation) Guided Tour Price without pass €14 Ticket is not included View attraction

Guided Tour Basilica Cistern Guided Tour

Basilica Cistern Guided Tour Price without pass €30 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Reservation Required Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Dinner and Turkish Shows

Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Dinner and Turkish Shows Price without pass €35 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Guided Tour Dolmabahce Palace with Harem Guided Tour

Dolmabahce Palace with Harem Guided Tour Price without pass €42 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Walk In Whirling Dervishes Show

Whirling Dervishes Show Price without pass €20 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Reservation Required Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus 2 Hours

Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus 2 Hours Price without pass €50 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Walk In Maiden´s Tower Entrance with Audio Guide

Maiden´s Tower Entrance with Audio Guide Price without pass €28 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Reservation Required Pub Crawl Istanbul

Pub Crawl Istanbul Price without pass €25 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Reservation Required E-Sim Internet Data in Turkey

E-Sim Internet Data in Turkey Price without pass €15 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Walk In Camlica Tower Observation Deck Entrance

Camlica Tower Observation Deck Entrance Price without pass €24 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction

Walk In Sapphire Observation Deck Istanbul

Sapphire Observation Deck Istanbul Price without pass €15 Free with Istanbul E-pass View attraction