Solo Journey In Istanbul | Final Information To A Secure & Enjoyable Solo Journey

By Cassie Yoshikawa. This information to touring Istanbul solo incorporates affiliate hyperlinks to trusted companions!

Seeking to expertise solo journey in Istanbul for your self, however need assistance with the planning?

Then you definitely’re in the precise place!

Touring solo in Istanbul could be a really rewarding expertise, with a lot to do, see, and expertise.

To start with, it’s a metropolis of contrasts, with historic buildings from varied dynasties sitting proper subsequent to fashionable constructions. You possibly can spend a morning visiting a Fifteenth-century mosque and the afternoon sipping cocktails at a rooftop bar.

And since you’ll be able to actually cross continents inside this Eurasian metropolis in a single afternoon, deciding the right way to spend your time here’s a feat in itself.

Fortunately, this information will aid you to take advantage of your time in Istanbul — with suggestions on the highest issues to do, the right way to get round and not using a automobile, and extra.

With its wealthy tradition, lovely views, and scrumptious meals, you’ll definitely have an unforgettable and pleasing journey to Istanbul!

Fast tip: Get monetary savings whereas touring Istanbul solo with an Istanbul E-Pass, which incorporates entry to greater than 40 prime Istanbul sights and guided excursions!

Confidently Take pleasure in Solo Journey In Istanbul [Free Course]

Earlier than we dive into our journey information to Istanbul solo journey, right here is an invitation to seize a seat in Jessie’s free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course.

The 6-day course is designed that can assist you really feel assured about reserving your first solo journey and exploring the world alone.

Classes embrace:

• Frequent solo journey fears and the right way to overcome them
• How to decide on your good solo journey
• Learn how to inform family members you’re going to journey solo
• Mentally making ready in your solo journey with out shedding your thoughts
• Important steps for staying secure on a solo journey
• Learn how to take superb solo selfies

When you’ve grabbed your seat, learn on to dive into our Istanbul solo journey information.

Solo Journey In Istanbul: Is It Price It?

For the solo traveler in search of a enjoyable, secure, and memorable expertise, Istanbul is a good vacation spot.

To start with, it’s straightforward to get round. Lots of Istanbul’s major sights are inside strolling distance of one another, and public transportation is straightforward to search out and use.

When it comes to security, as the biggest metropolis in Turkey, Istanbul has a booming tourism trade — which helps to make it comparatively secure for foreigners and solo vacationers.

With its measurement and myriad of sights, there’s one thing for each sort of solo traveler. From its world-renowned historic websites just like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to its bustling streets the place European and Center Japanese cultures collide to its east meets west environment, there’s a lot to discover.

It’s a type of cities that may be no matter type of expertise you need. Discover it at your personal tempo and uncover what makes this vibrant metropolis really particular.

The place Is Istanbul?

Istanbul is likely one of the world’s most unusual cities. The truth is, it’s the solely metropolis that spans two continents!

Situated in Turkey (Türkiye) and divided by the Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul lies each in Europe and Asia. It’s famously dubbed the “metropolis throughout two worlds” and attracts many guests who wish to discover its contrasting cultures and depths of historical past.

On prime of that, it’s usually related to the Center East, relying in your supply. And in the event you’re inquisitive about solo journey in Turkey on the whole, know that it’s usually touted as the most effective locations to journey solo within the Center East!

The nation of Turkey is sort of massive, bordered on one facet by Syria, Iraq, and Iran; nevertheless, Istanbul is tucked away within the nation’s northwestern nook, sharing a border with its European neighbors, Bulgaria and Greece.

Previously referred to as Constantinople, Istanbul continues to be an important passage for contemporary maritime delivery between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.

Its historic and continued significance as a port creates a shocking mixture of historic structure with up to date vibrancy and an abundance of actions for solo vacationers.

On the identical road, you will see that hammams from the Ottoman Empire and rectilinear glass espresso retailers from the present decade. So whether or not you might be within the temper to immerse your self in historical past or in the event you want a contemporary consolation like a cappuccino, each worlds are at your fingertips.

Greatest Time To Go to Istanbul

Whereas Istanbul is a year-round vacation spot, October and November are the perfect months to go to.

It is because the climate throughout this time of yr is gentle and pleasing, with temperatures normally starting from the low 50s within the mornings to the excessive 60s within the afternoons — nice for sightseeing with out uncomfortably excessive temperatures.

Personally, I visited in November, which can also be shoulder season when costs go down in Turkey.

It was so good to benefit from the metropolis with out {the summertime} crowds whereas nonetheless avoiding the chilly temperatures of late winter.

It additionally helped decrease my packing as a result of I used to be fantastic bringing one jacket and didn’t have to fret in regards to the temperature fluctuating wildly from day to nighttime.

Getting To Istanbul

The commonest method to get to Istanbul is by flying into Istanbul Worldwide Airport, the world’s largest airport. That is the place most individuals who solo journey to Istanbul start their journey.

Due to its nice measurement, it does take a commute to get to the airport from the town middle. The airport is about 40 kilometers (~25 miles) from the center of Istanbul, which is a couple of 45-minute drive.

When it comes to public transportation in Istanbul, there’s a metro; nevertheless, that route will take you about three hours. Because of this, I like to recommend an airport switch — however arranging it forward of time.

I’ve beforehand been scammed by a “taxi” driver that drove me in circles for miles to jack up the fare and have heard related journey horror tales from associates about taxi drivers who goal vacationers.

On my subsequent go to to Istanbul, I took no probabilities and deliberate a experience with Tranigo. The drivers had been straightforward to search out and make sure for security, and so they had been well timed with very clear automobiles. Better of all, I might schedule my pickup and departure rides concurrently, and the worth was akin to taking a taxi.

Getting Round Istanbul As A Solo Traveler 

Touring round Istanbul is straightforward too; there are buses, ferries, and even funiculars which can be well-connected throughout the metropolis.

Except for the airport switch, except you might be venturing exterior of the town, there actually isn’t any must lease a automobile and even get a taxi if you are visiting Istanbul.

You’ll, nevertheless, must get an Istanbulkart pay as you go chip card. The Istanbulkart conveniently works on all public transport together with ferries. The truth is, most public transport won’t settle for money, you’ll be able to solely pay utilizing the reloadable chip playing cards.

I like to recommend buying the Istanbulkart within the airport the place it’s straightforward to get help if wanted.

Whereas you should purchase the Istanbulkart within the metropolis at virtually each tram cease, I remorse buying there as a result of there have been no English directions on the kiosks that I discovered. Fortunately, a neighborhood helped me by means of the method.

To not fear, when you do have the cardboard, it is rather straightforward to make use of and reload utilizing money.

Istanbul Journey Map

To assist in giving you a lay of the land for touring solo in Istanbul, here’s a map. It has among the details talked about on this information pre-plotted.

You can too click here for the interactive version.

Is Istanbul Secure For Solo Feminine Vacationers?

One of the vital widespread query vacationers ask: Is Istanbul secure to journey alone?

General, Istanbul is secure for solo feminine vacationers; nevertheless, as with all massive metropolis, fundamental precautions are mandatory.

When it comes to security ideas, don’t carry valuables on you, be on guard with the intention to keep away from pickpockets in crowded areas, and don’t stroll secluded streets alone late at night time. For essentially the most half, widespread sense goes a great distance in staying secure.

One particular factor I’d keep away from as a solo feminine traveler in Istanbul is wandering too deep into the bazaar alone.

The Grand Bazaar itself is a must-do expertise; however, the market sprawls out into tiny corridors and small alleyways the place it’s fairly straightforward to get misplaced. The deeper you go, the less vacationers there are and the better it’s to be focused.

I discovered that the hagglers turned extra aggressive and pushy the farther from the primary paths I wandered. I by no means felt I used to be in hurt’s means, however I definitely felt uncomfortable and essentially the most harassed as a lady.

If extensively procuring and exploring the bazaar is in your listing, then I’d contemplate reserving a guided strolling tour (like these). It’ll make your solo feminine journey Istanbul expertise rather a lot simpler.

The place To Keep In Istanbul When Touring Solo

To keep away from needing a automobile and to remain secure at night time, solo vacationers ought to keep inside strolling distance of Sultanahmet Sq.. Whereas this can be a touristy space, there are nonetheless loads of locations to discover and have an genuine Turkish expertise.

I stayed on the Aren Suites and would positively keep there once more. It was fairly reasonably priced, had a rooftop view of the Bosphorus and the Blue Mosque, and there have been a number of candy retailers and eating places alongside the encompassing roads. Most significantly, it was a simple stroll to Sultanahmet Sq. and the metro.

For a extra funds keep, take a look at Antique Hostel, which provides co-ed dorms, women-only dorms (that are very talked-about with these having fun with solo feminine journey to Istanbul), and personal rooms.

And for a bougie expertise, the Hagia Sofia Mansions Curio Collection gives an expensive keep, options onsite facilities like eating places and a pool, and likewise has its personal spa for some pampering.

Click here for a full list of hotels near Sultanahmet Square, an amazing space to remain when touring alone in Istanbul! You can too browse the map beneath for nearby hotels and self-contained stays:

High Issues To Do On A Solo Journey To Istanbul

For essentially the most half, the primary vacationer sights in Istanbul are all inside straightforward strolling distance of Sultanahmet Sq., which is the place a lot of the prime issues to do in Istanbul alone are situated. Something past the sq. is straightforward to entry utilizing the Istanbulkart card.

Stroll Sultanahmet Sq.

Begin your Istanbul solo feminine journey journey at Sultanahmet Sq.. Inside one afternoon, you’ll be able to simply discover prime sights like:

• Blue Mosque: Formally referred to as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, this Ottoman-era mosque is known for its blue-tiled inside.
• Hagia Sophia: The Hagia Sophia was initially constructed as a Byzantine church and has since been transformed right into a mosque, then to a museum, and is now again to a mosque.
• Basilica Cistern: The Basilica Cistern is a Byzantine-era water filtration system beneath the town.
• Topkapi Palace: Now a museum, Topkapi Palace is the previous residence of Ottoman sultans.

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are each free to go to. Simply be aware of visiting hours as each are functioning mosques.

Though they’re Muslim locations of worship, the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia are safe for Christian tourists and non-believing guests alike. Simply remember to carry a shawl as a result of all feminine guests are required to cowl their hair and shoulders.

Additionally, be certain to arrange for lengthy ticket strains at Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern.

For a barely larger worth, you’ll be able to e-book upfront by means of a third-party tour firm like Viator to keep away from the strains.

Fast tip: On the lookout for a guided tour of the primary websites? This highly-rated excursion consists of visits to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Istanbul Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar — and even features a 3-course lunch at a conventional Istanbul restaurant!

Discover Istanbul’s Completely different Districts

Reap the benefits of your Istanbulkart card and experience the tram to the Grand Bazaar — one of many oldest and largest lined markets on the planet — to get your procuring in.

From there, cross the Golden Horn estuary by strolling the enduring Galata Bridge, which connects the northern and southern districts of Istanbul.

You possibly can even keep some time and have a meal in one of many cafes situated within the bridge. Sure, you learn that proper — there’s a market and cafes constructed into the bridge itself!

Iconic Galata Tower, a Roman-style watchtower that’s now a well-known landmark and viewpoint, is only a 12-minute stroll from the bridge.

After visiting, you’ll be able to take the tram to cease by Taksim Square, the fashionable coronary heart of Istanbul that includes procuring and eating places. It’s a stark distinction to the historic Sultanahmet Sq., and definitely a must-include on any solo journey Istanbul itinerary.

By now, you’ll in all probability be hungry, so head all the way down to the port to have the distinctive expertise of taking the ferry from Europe to Asia for dinner. Excellent news: the ferry even accepts your Istanbulkart card!

Expertise Turkish Tradition

Finish your busy day of sightseeing by getting a massage at a Turkish bath. A hammam is a really intimate method to expertise Turkish tradition, so ensure you perceive what you might be signing up for!

The hammams are utterly separated by gender, and when you can carry a swimsuit to put on, you will see that most locals put on solely the towel and paper clothes offered by the hammam.

In my view, the very best place to go for this expertise is Cemberlitas Hamami, which I beloved a lot I went twice! There are less expensive hammams in Istanbul; nevertheless, as a solo feminine traveler, I’d not skimp on the worth for this exercise.

Take A Bosphorus River Cruise

The Bosphorus River runs by means of the center of Istanbul. It separates Europe from Asia and connects the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.

There’s an abundance of how to cruise the Bosphorus, which is an efficient method to discover this attraction.

Take pleasure in a sunset cruise on a yacht, an all-inclusive dinner cruise with entertainment, or spend a full day cruising the Bosphorus Strait and Golden Horn with stops and excursions alongside the way in which.

You’ll wish to e-book this one forward of time, as cruise availability adjustments seasonally.

Go to The Istanbul Archaeological Museums

The Istanbul Archaeological Museums is definitely a posh of three museums: The Archaeology Museum, The Museum of the Historic Orient, and The Tiled Kiosk Museum.

Discover three museums directly for under 100 Turkish Lira. You can too opt for skip-the-line access.

Better of all, it’s in Sultanahmet, so it’s straightforward so as to add to your Istanbul solo journey itinerary.

See A Whirling Dervishes Efficiency

No solo journey to Istanbul could be full with out seeing the Whirling Dervishes carry out on the Galata Mevlevi House Museum.

Sufi Muslims began whirling as a type of meditation and prayer within the twelfth century, which some teams nonetheless apply immediately.

There are lots of locations to see “whirlers” in Istanbul. Due to its spiritual significance, discovering a good efficiency middle like a cultural middle or museum is essential.

Guide A Meals Tour (Or Dine In A Native Residence)

The most effective methods to discover a brand new vacation spot is thru meals. Istanbul is understood for its scrumptious delicacies — from delectable mezes (that are like Mediterranean tapas) to recent produce to seasoned meats and past.

Fortunately, there are quite a few meals excursions you’ll be able to e-book — like a Taste of Two Continents Food Tour. On this tour, you’ll discover a spice market, savor a Turkish breakfast, sip Turkish espresso, and feast on native eats.

Click here for a full list of Istanbul food tours.

Now, together with visiting native meals companies, it’s also possible to dine within the residence of a neighborhood by means of EatWith — a platform showcasing meals excursions and at-home dinners hosted by locals.

It’s a very enjoyable method to immerse your self in native life and meet different individuals throughout your Istanbul solo journey expertise.

Be taught How To Prepare dinner Like A Native

Talking of meals, it’s also possible to discover ways to cook dinner by reserving a neighborhood cooking class. EatWith additionally options cooking lessons, by means of it’s not your solely possibility.

One prime decide is this Turkish cooking class, the place you’ll put together conventional dishes like vine leaves or kirde kebabı whereas additionally studying culinary methods from knowledgeable chef. These are abilities you’ll be capable of carry again to your kitchen at residence too!

Take An Istanbul Picture Tour

When touring solo, it may be tough to get good images with you within the image — which is the place an Istanbul Photo Shoot Tour is available in.

This two-hour expertise means that you can discover Istanbul’s well-liked websites, and be photographed with them! You’re additionally allowed to alter outfits.

It’s an effective way to get your entire images executed rapidly, after which go away your digital camera behind and loosen up as you roam the town solo.

High Excursions For Solo Vacationers In Istanbul

Together with the above-mentioned sights and experiences, there are a great deal of nice excursions. The fantastic thing about a guided tour for these touring solo in Istanbul is they provide a enjoyable method to be taught in regards to the vacation spot and essential journey ideas whereas additionally interacting with locals and connecting with different vacationers.

A number of top-rated excursions so as to add to your Istanbul itinerary:

Click here for a full list of tours in Istanbul.

Ideas For Solo Eating In Istanbul

Whether or not from a roadside vendor or a longtime restaurant, Istanbul has so many improbable meals choices that it may be a bit overwhelming.

Plus, eating places pop up, disappear, or change possession continuously in touristy districts. As an alternative of trying to find a selected restaurant, I discovered it useful to make a bucket listing of meals to attempt that’s distinctive to Turkey.

Then I ended at any restaurant or stand that appeared promising.

The perfect factor about solo eating in Istanbul is that even at nicer eating places, consuming alone is sort of widespread. A number of instances, the host requested if I would favor to take a seat a the bar with different solo vacationers; but it surely was not awkward to request my very own desk if I most popular.

Begin your morning with Turkish espresso, specifically ready with fantastic grounds and no filter. That is complimentary at most resorts and accessible at most cafes.

Then, have a freshly pressed pomegranate or orange juice at one of many many road carts.

For lunch, discover a sit-down cafe and have a kebab platter.

Within the afternoon, dance in your ice cream. You’ll know you might be in for a deal with (or trick) while you discover somewhat purple cart with the seller adorned in a purple vest and fez hat. The ice cream males are identified for frolicsome sleight-of-hand when handing out the ice cream cones, all in good enjoyable in fact.

On at the least one night time, splurge on a rooftop restaurant with a view of the Blue Mosque. I beloved the view from the Lady Di Hotel. The employees had been very pleased with the view and had been greater than prepared to take my image and share the very best angles to see.

To finish the day, pop in to a window store to attempt a brand new taste of baklava and Turkish Delight for dessert.

Getting Journey Insurance coverage To Journey Solo In Istanbul

When visiting Istanbul — or wherever else on the planet — it’s smart to get journey insurance coverage.

One of many finest journey medical insurance coverage for vacationers is SafetyWing as they’ve received a big community and provide each short-term and long-term protection — together with protection in the event you’re touring for months in addition to restricted protection in your house nation.

Moreover, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and provides $250,000 price of protection with only one low total deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.

Ceaselessly Requested Questions About Touring To Istanbul Alone

Q) Is Istanbul good for solo vacationers?

Istanbul is a superb vacation spot for solo vacationers due to its massive measurement, abundance of issues to do, and fusion of European and Center Japanese cultures. Plus, Istanbul is comparatively secure and straightforward to discover and not using a group or information.

Q) Can a lady journey alone in Istanbul?

Sure! The truth is, solo feminine journey in Istanbul is widespread, and girls can really feel secure exploring the town on their very own. After all, as with all massive metropolis, it’s essential to take fundamental precautions and use widespread sense to remain secure — notably from scams and pickpocketing schemes.

Q) What number of days do you have to spend in Istanbul?

You possibly can expertise the preferred websites in Sultanahmet Sq. in Istanbul in sooner or later; nevertheless, to essentially get to know the town, two days is an efficient minimal.

Q) How a lot cash will I would like for per week touring solo in Istanbul?

Solo journey in Istanbul will common about 1200 Turkish Lira or 65 USD per day on meals and bills. Price range at the least $1100 for per week, together with a mean resort keep.

Q) How ought to a lady vacationer gown in Turkey?

The extra remotely they journey, the extra modestly girls ought to gown in Turkey; nevertheless, in massive cities like Istanbul, girls shouldn’t really feel too restricted in what they’ll put on. It’s a good suggestion to at all times have a shawl and an extended sweater within the occasion of visiting a mosque or spiritual attraction. In any other case, western vogue is sort of widespread in Istanbul.

Remaining Ideas On Solo Journey In Istanbul 

General, Istanbul is a superb vacation spot for solo vacationers. Even solo feminine vacationers in Istanbul can really feel secure and revel in the very best issues this metropolis provides.

Istanbul’s fusion of European and Center Japanese cultures and distinction of historic and fashionable marvels make it a vacation spot you’ll undoubtedly wish to return to repeatedly.

What ideas for solo journey in Istanbul would you add to this listing?

Loved this information on the right way to journey solo in Istanbul? Pin it for later!

About The Creator

Cassie Yoshikawa has a critical ardour for journey, and her mission is to encourage that very same love in others. She curates vacation spot guides in addition to faith-based journey assets on her weblog cassiescompass.com. When she’s not on the street, yow will discover her in a espresso store in Fresno, California. Comply with her wherever at @cassiescompass.