Istanbul travel guide
Istanbul, Türkiye travel guide: visa requirements, an honest safety read, money, tipping, plugs and emergency numbers — then book real flights with the Tourbo AI Concierge.
Visa & entry
⚠️ AI-generated overview. Rules differ by passport — verify with the official embassy or consulate, or ask the Concierge about your specific passport.
Commonly required documents
- passport valid 6 months
Tourbo does not determine visa requirements — they depend on your nationality, purpose, and length of stay, and change often. Verify with the official source above and the destination's embassy or consulate.
Safety
⚠️ AI-generated. Always check your government's official travel advisory before you book.
Istanbul — safety & local info
Istanbul is generally safe in tourist areas but requires awareness regarding petty crime and scams.
General advisories
- •Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded tourist spots.
- •Use reputable transport services, especially at night.
- •Do not leave valuables unattended.
Around the clock
General guidance, not based on live local data. Trust your judgment and local advice.
- Daytime. Stay aware of your belongings in crowded areas
- Evening. Use common sense and stick to visible routes
- Late night. Use pre-booked transport and remain vigilant
Emergency Numbers
Tourbo doesn't rate how safe a place is. For the current risk level, check your government's official travel advisory. Official government travel advisory (e.g. UK FCDO).
Local essentials
Istanbul Essentials
Currency
Turkish Lira
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not strictly mandatory; rounding up or leaving a small amount is common in restaurants and for services.
Plug
Type F/C
Voltage
220-240V / 50Hz
Useful Phrases
- MerhabaHello/Hi
- Teşekkür ederimThank you
- LütfenPlease
- PardonExcuse me
- Tuvalet nerede?Where is the restroom?
- Bu ne kadar?How much is this?
Emergency Numbers
AI-generated overview. Verify local details before your trip.
Top experiences
Highest-rated tours & activities in Istanbul, booked through Viator.

Private and Guided Istanbul Food Tour: Taste of Istanbul
$300
Experiences provided by Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Free cancellationIstanbul Photoshoot at ALL Top Sightseeings
$110
Experiences provided by Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Free cancellationPrivate Old City Guided Tour
$226
Experiences provided by Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

Daily Ertugrul Tour from Istanbul
$605
Experiences provided by Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Ready for Istanbul?
Ask the Tourbo Concierge in plain language — it finds real fares, checks your visa, and books it. One conversation, your whole trip.
Plan Istanbul with the Concierge