Istanbul is one of the most exciting cities in the world — but it’s also a maze of history, culture, and clever sales tactics. After years of guiding visitors here, I’ve seen the same mistakes happen over and over. Here’s how you can avoid them and enjoy the real Istanbul.
1. Not Reading Any of This and Just Booking a Guide
Mistake: Skipping this whole list and wandering around guessing what to do.
Better: Save yourself the trouble — just book a licensed guide for one day and you’ll automatically avoid all of these mistakes… plus hear stories Google doesn’t know.
2. Choosing the Wrong Transport Card
Mistake: Buying the “City Card” because it’s sold as a tourist option. It’s more expensive and only works for a set number of hours or days.
Better: Get the Istanbulkart. It works like a rechargeable credit card for all public transport (metro, tram, ferry, bus) and you can top it up anytime at kiosks or machines.
3. Taking a Taxi When the Tram Is Faster
Mistake: Paying for a taxi in heavy traffic when your destination is near a tram line.
Better: Use the T1 Tram Line — it’s cheap, reliable, and runs straight through the Old Town and main tourist spots.
4. Not Using Uber for Taxis
Mistake: Flagging down taxis on the street and risking a driver taking the “long scenic route.”
Better: Order through Uber in Istanbul. The prices are clear, drivers are tracked, and it saves you a headache.
5. Buying Two Tickets for Hagia Sophia
Mistake: Some sellers offer you a “double ticket” — one for Hagia Sophia and another for a 6D experience museum for 50€.
Better: You only need one ticket to see the real Hagia Sophia 25€. Skip the upsell unless you truly want the extra museum.
6. Paying the First Price in the Grand Bazaar
Mistake: Accepting the initial price offered by shopkeepers.
Better: Bargain — it’s expected here! Start around half the asking price and enjoy the friendly negotiation.
7. Only Staying in the Old Town
Mistake: Spending all your time in Sultanahmet.
Better: Book at least 3 days and explore other areas like Kadıköy, Balat, Galata, and the Bosphorus neighborhoods. You’ll find more local life, food, and culture.
8. Picking the Wrong Bosphorus Cruise
Mistake: Going with random sellers near the piers and ending up on a crowded, old ferry.
Better: Look for Dentur ferries. They’re clean, on time, and affordable.
9. Ignoring Mosque Etiquette
Mistake: Entering mosques without proper dress or during prayer time.
Better: Wear modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), women bring a scarf for the head, and avoid visiting during Friday midday prayer.
10. Expecting Sauce on Your Döner
Mistake: Asking for tzatziki or other sauces on your döner like in Greece.
Better: In Istanbul, döner is served plain to highlight the flavor of the meat. Locals take pride in the taste — sauce is seen as hiding it.