Istanbul: A thriving East meets West metropolis packed with history, culture and energy. Read on for my tips on how to make the most of your stay in the incredible Istanbul on a budget…
Where to stay in Istanbul on a budget..
Travelling solo on a budget I’d recommend staying in a hostel. If you have a bit of cash to spend and/or travelling as a couple or group then try Air B&B or a hotel.
Which area to stay in Istanbul on a budget:
Sultanahmet:
If you have limited time and you wish to be close to the major tourist attractions then stay near the Sultanahmet area on the European side, this means that you won’t be spending on travel within the city, you’re close to a metro line and you have the key attractions on your doorstep.
I recommend Cheers Downtown Hostel as it is within walking distance from the main sights such as the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. However, being a touristy area, prices will be inflated in comparison to other areas. Be aware that there aren’t really any bars or nightlife in this area.
Kalikoy:
If nightlife and coffee culture is up your street head over to Kalikoy on the Asian side which has streets lined with bars and coffee shops. Prices on the Asian side tend to be lower – a win win for those on a budget. You can access the European side by Ferry which takes around 30 minutes. Read about my day in Kalikoy here.
Taksim Square:
The area around Taksim Square on the European side is popular with backpackers wanting nightlife and shopping. Personally this area felt too European for me- full of chain stores and could have been any city in Europe.
Beyoglu:
Beyoglu near to Taksim Square is renowned for its eclectic nightlife and quirky feel, whether you’re after grungy dive bars or rooftop cocktails. Read hostel reviews carefully, as many in this area appear to be lacking in facilities and some travellers have reported feeling unsafe.
Getting around Istanbul on a budget:
The tram and bus services a range of areas within Istanbul. Get between the European and Asian side via ferry.
Make sure you purchase an Istanbulkart – a travel card which you can use for public transport at a discounted cost within the city. Buy and top it up at the various stands by the various stands, journeys cost a few lira each time. Ask in your hostel first- often travellers will leave theirs behind for the next traveller. Public transport is super easy to use- swipe your card and you’re good to go!
Getting to Istanbul from the airport on a budget…
There are two airports in Istanbul:
Sabina Gocken airport. This is further out of the city located on the Asian side. Without traffic it will take around an hour to reach the Sultanahmet area, with traffic it’s anybody’s guess. The Havabus take travellers into the centre near Taksim Square taking 90 minutes on average and costing 12 lira.
Ataturk airport: This airport is on the European side and around 30-40 minutes drive from Sultanahmet (traffic dependent).You can get here by tram and then metro which takes around an hour or so.
What souvenirs and gifts to buy in Istanbul on a budget:
You can’t leave Istanbul without buying some Turkish delight. Enjoy haggling at the spice souk, or for an easier experience call in one of the shops away from the main tourist hubs. Better prices are to be found on the Asian side.
What to eat in Istanbul on a budget:
As I don’t eat meat I was slightly restricted by the food offerings. I do however eat fish and enjoyed a tasty fish sandwich or ‘balik ekmek’- get freshly caught fish at one of the eateries by the Galata Bridge.
Other options included hummus and falafel wraps or baked potato filled with a range of fillings.
Meat eaters will be in meat heaven at the extensive kebab offerings.
Free sights in Istanbul:
- Blue Mosque: Free to enter, although there is a donation box outside.
- Grand Bazaar: Even if you’re not going to buy anything, its definitely worth coming here for the experience.
- Istanbul Modern Art Gallery– free on Thursdays
- Watch the sunset from the Galata bridge.
- Indulge your senses with an array of colours, sights and smells at the Spice Bazaar.
Istanbul is a perfect destination for travellers on a budget as you can have a great time just wandering the streets.
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