Useful quick facts about Istanbul that will come in handy during your trip to Istanbul. For more information about local conduct and customs, our Babu House staff will be more than happy to assist you.
Currency:
TRY – Turkish Lira. As of 2019 the average exchange rate for 1 Euro is 6,15 TRY and 1 US Dollar 5,45 TRY.
Weather:
The temperature is usually mild, July usually being the hottest month in Istanbul an average temperature of 24°C (74°F). April to mid-June is calm, with occasional rain. Winters are typically rainy or snowy.
Time Zone:
Eastern European Time Zone (GMT+2)
To/From the Airport:
Istanbul New Airport (ISL) is located in Arnavutköy, Taxis will take you for roughly 80 TL to Atatürk Airport and 150 TL to Sabiha Gökcen / ISL Airport. Shuttle Services between the Airport terminals and the city centre depart every 30 minutes.
Public Transport:
You can use the Metro, Metro Bus (a fast track Bus with its own lane in the city), buses, tramways and ships to navigate the city. A Dolmuş can be an alternative to cabs (large Taxis which pack up to 8 people) Ferries can be caught at Kabatas, Besiktas and Eminönü to visit the Asian Side and Islands. All public transit requires payments of an Istanbul Card (Istanbulkart) which can be purchased for 6 TL and refilled at the stations.
Cabs:
Yellow cabs cost a minimum of 10 TL per ride. 0.50 Turkish Lira cents are added per half mile. Make sure the meter is running. Rates increase by 50 percent after midnight, indicated by meter flashing “gece” (night) rather than “gündüz” (day). Tipping cab drivers is uncommon.
Health & Safety:
Most over-the-counter medicine is available and pharmacies are located all around the city (Hours: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday) with an emergency pharmacy (nöbetçi eczane) on duty per neighbourhood.
Attire:
Istanbulites wear Western attire, but neighbourhoods differ in their preferences from conservative to couture. Clothes should be kept modest, to be on the safe side, and especially during strolls through historical neighbourhoods and mosques, one should make sure not to appear provocatiative. The nighttime is more suited for the latest fashion items and miniskirts.
Tipping:
Bahşiş in Turkish. It is appropriate to leave 10% -15%.
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