How to get to Istanbul

When planning a journey to Turkey, the first question many tourists ask is how to get to Istanbul — a unique metropolis spanning the shores of the Bosphorus between Europe and Asia. This ancient yet thoroughly modern city boasts a developed transport infrastructure, allowing you to travel here comfortably by plane, train, bus, or private car. A trip to Istanbul marks the beginning of an exciting adventure, whichever mode of transport you choose.

Flying is the most popular and fastest way to reach Istanbul. The metropolis is served by two major international airports located on different continents, allowing travellers to choose the most convenient flight option.

Istanbul Airport (IST) is located on the European side of the city. It is a grand, modern hub where the majority of scheduled flights from major global airlines arrive. It is renowned for its advanced infrastructure and immense scale.

Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is situated on the Asian side. It is more frequently used by low-cost carriers and charter flights, as well as for domestic flights from other cities in Turkey. Both airports have excellent transport links to the city centre, including express buses, the metro, and taxis.

Travelling by rail to Istanbul is a comfortable and scenic way to reach the metropolis, allowing you to avoid traffic congestion at the city's entrance. The country's railway network is actively developing, offering tourists modern and convenient travel options both domestically and from abroad.

Comfortable high-speed trains (YHT) run from Ankara, Eskişehir, and Konya. Their final stop on the Asian side of the city is usually Söğütlüçeşme station, located near the Kadıköy district. This is an excellent option for those wishing to cross Anatolia quickly while watching the changing landscapes from the window of a modern carriage.

For travellers arriving from Europe (for example, on the night express from Sofia or Bucharest), the gateway to the city is Halkalı station on the European side. Both main railway hubs are integrated into the urban transport system: using the Marmaray commuter line, you can travel directly from the stations to the historic centre without changing trains, passing through the tunnel beneath the Bosphorus.

Bus services in Turkey are famous for their comfort and extensive route network, making overland travel a great alternative to flying. From neighbouring Kocaeli, you can reach the metropolis in just one and a half hours, covering a distance of about 100 kilometres. Residents and visitors coming from Tekirdağ, located on the European coast of the Sea of Marmara, usually spend about two hours covering the 135-kilometre journey, enjoying the views along the way.

Busy traffic also connects Istanbul with historic Bursa: the 150-kilometre journey takes between two and three hours depending on road congestion. Modern buses, often equipped with Wi-Fi and multimedia systems, usually arrive at the giant Esenler bus terminal or the Alibeyköy station, from where it is easy to reach central districts via public transport.

Travelling behind the wheel offers freedom of movement, and you can get to Istanbul quickly and comfortably via modern motorways. A trip from neighbouring Kocaeli usually takes about one and a half hours, covering a distance of 100 kilometres, while the journey from Tekirdağ through the European part of the country (135 km) requires approximately two hours.

The scenic route from Bursa, spanning 150 kilometres, often passes over the famous Osmangazi Suspension Bridge and takes from two to three hours depending on traffic. It is worth remembering that petrol in Turkey is quite expensive, and an intercity taxi ride will cost a significant amount (from 150–200 USD and up), so many tourists prefer to rent a car.

A trip to Istanbul is an immersion into a vibrant kaleidoscope of cultures and history, but to ensure your journey goes smoothly, it is worth considering a few important nuances in advance. Here is a list of practical recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in this vast metropolis.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather here is changeable, especially between seasons, so layering your clothes is your best friend. Since the city is built on hills and historic streets are often paved with cobblestones, choose the most comfortable flat shoes possible. For visiting active mosques, women will need a headscarf, and all tourists require modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
2. Transport: Istanbul traffic jams are legendary, so try to avoid taxis and buses during peak hours (usually from 08:00 to 10:00 and 17:00 to 19:00). The most reliable way to get around is by tram and metro. Be sure to purchase an Istanbulkart: it works on all modes of transport, including the famous ferries across the Bosphorus, and allows for significant savings on fares.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Lira. Bank cards are accepted in most restaurants, shopping malls, and hotels, but cash is necessary for buying street food (such as the famous simit or chestnuts), souvenirs at bazaars, and topping up transport cards. It is better to exchange money at city exchange offices (Döviz), avoiding airports and tourist zones where the rate may be less favourable.
4. Health and Safety: Turkey is known for quality healthcare, and pharmacies (Eczane) are found at every turn in the city. Drinking tap water is not recommended; please use bottled water. Generally, the city is safe, but in crowded tourist spots like Sultanahmet Square or Istiklal Avenue, it is wise to keep a close watch on your bags and pockets.
5. Communication: In tourist areas, hotel and café staff often speak English, and sometimes Russian. However, learning a couple of basic phrases in Turkish, such as "Merhaba" (Hello) and "Teşekkür ederim" (Thank you), guarantees you a warmer reception and smiles from the locals.
6. Local Etiquette: Turks are extremely hospitable, and refusing a offered glass of tea may be perceived as impolite. When entering a private home or a mosque, you must remove your shoes. At markets and private shops, bargaining is customary — it is considered part of cultural interaction, not just a dispute over price.
7. What to Avoid: Do not photograph locals (especially women) without their permission. Avoid discussing sensitive political topics and always show respect for state symbols and portraits of Atatürk. Also, be wary of shoe shiners who "accidentally" drop a brush in front of you — this is a common ploy to impose a paid service.
8. Extra Tip: If you plan a rich cultural programme, consider purchasing the Museum Pass Istanbul. It grants priority entry to many top museums, such as Topkapi Palace or the Galata Tower, saving you not only money but also precious hours that would otherwise be spent in queues.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and focus on what matters most — enjoying the unique atmosphere of the city where East meets West. May your holiday be filled only with pleasant discoveries and delicious tea!