Explore Istanbul
Istanbul is a city built on two Continents, divided by the Bosphorus Strait. It is one of the greatest cities in the world where you can see a modern western city combined with a traditional eastern city. It,s a melting pot of many civilizations and different people. Istanbul was also announced by the European Union as the 2010 European Capital of Culture.
Watch the tourism video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iO3IsqZ2Hw
Language Spoken
Turkish is the official language of Turkey however the majority of Turks are well spoken in English.
Currency & Time Zone
Lira
UTC+03:00
Cuisine
Meals
A lunch at an Inexpensive restaurant would cost an average of ₺60 or (R162), while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant would cost up to ₺120 or (R322).Drinks
Expect to pay around ₺18 or (R49.48) for a domestic beer and up to ₺22 or (R60.48).
Transportation
Taxis
Taxis have a basic fee of ₺5 (R13.75) and ₺3 (R8.24) every kilometre thereafter.General Transport
For all public transport like boats, subways, buses and trams you will have to purchase a Magnetic Card The charge for a card is ₺7 (R19.24). An average costing per person per ride would be ₺2.60 (R7.15)Things to do in Istanbul
Hagia Sophia; Grand Baazar; Galata Tower; Blue Mosque; Istiklal Avenue; Eat with the Locals; Sip Turkish Coffee; Cruise the Bosphorus; Play Backgammon; Visit a Turkish Bath
Medical Precautions
Recommended Vaccines
These recommended vaccines need to be taken 4-8 weeks prior to departure:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Rabies
- Measles
- Typhoid
- All Routine Vaccines
Top 10 Packing Essentials
- Sturdy walking shoes
- Scarf or shawl to cover head and shoulders in mosques.
- Males need long pants in mosques.
- Camera
- Cozy Socks
- Copy of travelling documents
- Hand Sanitizer
- Neck Wallet
- Sunscreen
- Portable battery pack
Passports & Visa Information
South Africans travelling to Istanbul require a valid passport for travel not exceeding 30 days, otherwise they need a visa as well