Istanbul Hotel

Visas

Most european nationals including UK, Australians, Canadians and USA citizens can obtain a visa on arrival.

Tip: The fee varies according to your nationality and is often cheaper if you pay it with correct notes in your own currency.

FOOTNOTE 4) You require tourist visa to enter Turkey. You can obtain a three month multiple entry sticker type visa at the port of entry in Turkey. If you like to obtain your visa through this Consulate General, please click here to make an online appointment for visa applications to Turkey.

British passport holders can obtain tourist visa either at the port of entry in Turkey for £10,00 or from this Consulate General for £ 50,00.

Information from: Visa Info from UK Turkish Consulate

Airport Transfer

Taxis require negotiaition with the driver. There is usually a pre paid taxi counter in Indian airports which is a better idea. There is a bus run by ex servicemen to connaught place area which is an option for backpackers. Not really a good way to economise though since taxis are cheap and the sacrifice in comfort far outweighs the saving.

Note that there are two airports in Istanbul. Your long haul flight will most likely depart Ataturk (IST), some short haul flights especially low cost carriers arrive at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (ASW).

From Ataturk there is a LRT (metro train) to central Istanbul. We budgeted 5 euro each way for your transfer. A pre arranged taxi can be had for 20 euro each way.

Arrive prepared by downloading the map

Currency

Local currency is the Turkish Lire, TYR. There are about 1.7 to the euro or 2.5 to the pound or 1.2 to the US dollar.

Istanbul hotels at a discount.

Coming soon ... search for discount hotels.

A cheaper hotel can be had for around 30 euro. 4- or 5-star hotels start at 75 euro.