Flight
Istanbul has two airports: IST and SAW. We recommend flying into Istanbul Airport (IST). When you are departing, please leave enough time for security checks. Istanbul Airport has three security checkpoints: one at the entrance, one after passport check, and one at the flight gate (the last one is for U.S. flights).
Hotel
We recommend staying in Galata/ Asmali Mescit area, it's full of restaurants and bars also not far away from historical attractions. For your convenience, a block of rooms has been reserved at Meroddi Barnathan Hotel in Istanbul. If you prefer to stay in this hotel, please send an email to reservations@meroddi.com to make your reservation. Please mention the discount code MAY23 in order to receive a discounted rate. Refundable room rates are higher than non refundable rates. Other hotels we recommend in this area are: Pera Palace Hotel Adahan DeCamondo Pera (Marriott Bonvoy) Meroddi Bagdatliyan Hotel There are also airbnbs available.
Discount Code - MAY23
Travel Note
Uber is available in Istanbul in Uber Taxi form. So when you call Uber, a regular yellow or turquoise licensed local taxi will show up. Another app for cabs is BiTaksi. You don't have to tip the taxi drivers. If you're paying in cash, just round up the fare.
Travel Note
Doug and I bought eSIM cards for data last time we were in Turkey to avoid connectivity issues and high international plan bills. We used Airalo eSIM and were happy with it. If you want to use an eSIM, please make sure to buy and download it to your phone while you are still connected to internet.