Last updated: 27 Mar 2013
Travel
Airports
There are two airports in Istanbul – Ataturk Airport (on the European side, oldest and biggest in Istanbul) and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (on the Asian side).
Many cities in Turkey have airports operating and big cities such as Ankara, Izmir, Antalya have international airports.
It’s best to fly between cities in Turkey. Visitors can choose state-owned Turkish Airlines or other private airlines operating in Turkey. In winter and autumn, fog often disrupts flights so it’s wise to factor in possible delays during these seasons. Private planes and helicopters are available for charter.
Ground transport
Taxis are plentiful and cheap. If you haven’t arranged an airport transfer with your hotel, taxis are readily available at airports and provide the best option. Generally the distance between airports and city centres is approximately 30 kilometres and the one-way fare shouldn’t exceed A$60.
All taxis are yellow, equipped with meters and can be hailed anywhere, anytime. One small red light will be evident on the meter, a star (*) or the word ‘gunduz’ displays the flag fall which is valid until midnight. The flag fall after midnight, is indicated by two small red lights, two small stars (**) or the word ‘gece’. Where possible, take a taxi from a rank. It’s essential that you have an idea – or at least know of a landmark – close to your destination. Street addresses are not well known nor is the driver likely to consult a street directory.
Buses travel between most cities. Choose reputable companies such as Varan and Ulusoy to ensure maximum safety and comfort.
Travel time by road between Istanbul and Ankara is about four hours on a modern expressway. Snow in winter months may cause delays.
If it’s rainy, foggy or snowing leave earlier to make your appointment on time as the traffic deteriorates drastically under these conditions. Punctuality is a valued attribute in Turkey so planning your transport is important. For the tourists there are buses and ‘dolmus’ (shared shuttle vehicles that run fixed routes).
There are various modes of boat transport used to cross the Bosphorus (including 10 Australian built vessels servicing the Bosphorus and Marmara Sea).
Dining
Dining is an important part of Turkish social life and long dinners are common. There are many well known fish restaurants by the Bosphorus in Istanbul that are enjoyed by locals and tourists. There are many international restaurants in the Taksim, Nisantasi, Ortakoy and Sultanahmet areas. There are also many kebab houses cooking traditional Turkish kebabs.
Tipping
A 10 per cent tip is expected at restaurants. Tips should be paid in cash. Restaurants usually do not accept adding the tip on to the credit card slip. In taxis, rounding up the fare is appropriate.
Tourist attractions
There are many attractions to see in Istanbul including the Sultanahmet area with the Saint Sophia Museum, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Underground Cistern.
Grand Bazaar is a great stop for shopping. A boat tour on the Bosphorus is great especially in spring, summer and autumn. Prince’s islands are popular especially during summer.