Istanbul had 16.018.726 visitors last year (2022). Here in this article, I have decided to respond to their Top 5 Questions, based on popularity. For such tourist friendly, economic and with its countless destinations: Istanbul is competitive against other options in Europe. The questions asked by the visitors of the Istanbul:
1- Is Istanbul Cheap
2- What Is Istanbul Most Known For
3- Are Americans Welcome In Turkey
4- Is Istanbul Safe To Travel For Us Citizens
5- Which Month Is The Best For Istanbul
So we are diving into multiple subjects on the same article about the most frequently asked questions by visitors. I have done the research for you as @atourguideinconstantinople.
Is Istanbul Cheap
Istanbul is officially one of the cheapest cities of Europe on these subjects: Transportation, Food, Accommodation and the various range options on shopping.
Today’s local currency (Turkish Lira) is conveniently reachable. 1 € : 20.85 Turkish Lira, 1 $ : 19.18 Turkish Lira. That’s why the 2023 season is incomparably cheap against Europe.
According to accommodation facilities pricing lists, you can actually stay in some fancy hotel on the coastalyard of the Bosphorus and it will only cost you around 260$ to 500$ (These hotels are world class) per night. If you see any point in spending that much, most certainly there are many options even for 30 – 40 $.
Museums are insanely cheap and 1 bonus, Hagia Sophia is free now. It’s irresistible. There is no other option for entire Europe, you can completely find them as one, nice packaging.
What Is Istanbul Most Known For
Istanbul is mostly known for Its deeply rich history and world-famous structures such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Galata Tower, Istıklal Street, Grand Bazaar. The list goes on and on.
If you’ve seen 007: Skyfall, that rooftop chasing scene on the Grand Bazaar or another Bond, From Russia With Love, Taken 2, Inferno with Tom Hanks are all shot in Istanbul. (At least If you have read ‘Murder On The Orient Express’)
Most importantly with its cats and dogs. The cats are the actors/actresses of Istanbul City. They have documentaries, statues and huge roles in our community.
On the other hand, the food are amazing. Some restaurants are even rewarded. So there’s no joke in the food. Furthermore, most of them serve with widely ranging food options.
Are Americans Welcome In Turkey
As a Professional tour guide, I had thousands of American guests in my past. So every American can visit Turkey and they should.
Most of the Americans are showing in the summers (beginning in June) of Istanbul. You might want to check the local temperature before getting to Istanbul. Depending on the places where my guests visited Istanbul with my expertise, some of them were surprised about the weather.
So make sure the weather (Istanbul about 27-35’ C in the summer). If you don’t mind, you’re exactly on my mindset so find the 1st flight ASAP.
Is Istanbul Safe To Travel For US Citizens
You can check the crime/risk percentage from numerous Websites in seconds. It should be a habit before getting tickets.
You can check the records from: numbeo.com here If you would like. Comparing the most visited cities of Europe, Istanbul is stepping forward as being one of the safest.
No matter what has been said, I think eventually every city has distinct sides. I am always suggesting to my guests to be aware and be more conscious about crowded spots.
In the end, be more careful, have always some local support cause even having someone local on your side can make a massive difference.
Which Month Is The Best For Istanbul
I was born and raised in Istanbul and have been guiding since many years. It’s almost impossible to catch Istanbul with bad timing.
According to recents statistics, the city has guests from all across the world almost every month of the year. However, I would prefer the gap between April to July.
The beginning of April is the Tulip season in Istanbul. So colorful. Mother nature waking up and signs of the good weather getting more significant.
June is also a good month to be in Istanbul. If you can catch the period before the breaks of the schools that can be delightful.
Do You Need Tour Guide?
As a tour guide, sharing fascinating anecdotes and insider tips, taking my guests on a journey beyond the surface-level attractions and most importantly while having fun, I keep them accompanied along the way. With my guidance, you can discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that you may have otherwise missed.
I have always cared for the needs of my guests. Therefore it’s my duty to defend your interests. Being actively on the field for many years brought me above the certain level of knowledge. I have already faced and dealt with the issues you can possibly come across with. I also did absorb the history of the sites to create and prove my difference. The travellers who trusted me, received my full support and hospitality. In addition to setting their goals in the city where I was born, I did also shed light to show the ways of managing their time in the most efficient ways. Use my experience in order to feel confident as if it’s your own city!
All you have to do is texting these words;
“I need a tour guide”
Oğulcan ÖZDİL, Founder & Professional Tour Guide