Practical Information About Istanbul and Turkey FAQs

Turkey has dropped visa requirements for U.S. travelers, but visitors from other countries should check Turkiye’s e-Visa regulations. You can apply online anytime via the official website:
https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/

We recommend applying at least 48 hours before travel to avoid delays.

For most visitors, Istanbul is a safe city to visit — but you should travel with increased caution, follow local news, and avoid large crowds or demonstrations. The U.S. Department of State lists Turkiye as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Official details:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/turkey-travel-advisory.html

Practical tips: stay alert in busy tourist areas, avoid demonstrations, and monitor credible local updates.

• 112: Turkiye’s emergency number (police, ambulance, fire, etc.)

• Tourism Police: +90 212 527 45 03

• U.S. Consulate General Istanbul: +90 (212) 335-9000

Karakoy is ideal if you want a vibrant, lively neighborhood with a more local feel. It’s active day and night, full of cozy cafes and great restaurants, and it’s easy to reach other areas by tram, metro, ferries, and short taxi rides.

The Old City (Sultanahmet) is best for first-time visitors who want to stay close to major historic sites like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, plus plenty of shopping. It can feel very touristy, evenings are quieter after museums close, streets are often hilly and cobblestoned, and hotel rooms are typically smaller.

Our recommendation:

• Choose Karakoy for lively atmosphere, better evenings, and easy transportation.

• Choose the Old City if your priority is being steps away from major attractions.
  Many U.S. travelers do a split stay: 2–3 nights in the Old City, then move to Karakoy.

Accessibility is limited in many parts of Turkiye, but Istanbul has the most options. Some hotels and some streets have ramps, and public transportation can be wheelchair accessible in Istanbul. However, historic areas may include hills, cobblestones, stairs, and narrow sidewalks. Parked cars on sidewalks can also be a hazard.

If you share your needs in advance, we can plan routes with less walking, add breaks, and arrange a private vehicle when helpful.

Yes. A dress code is required when visiting places of worship, including Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Not permitted:

• Shorts above the knee

• Sleeveless tops

Required for men and women:

• Knees covered

• Shoulders covered

Women: a headscarf is required at religious sites. Bring a light scarf if possible. If you do not have one, let us know — we can provide a scarf during your visit.

These are publicly listed entrance fees for foreign visitors (approximate USD equivalents). Prices can change, and USD values vary with exchange rates.

• Topkapi Palace: 2,750 TL (approx $65) including the Harem section and Hagia Irene

• Hagia Sophia (Visiting Area / Upper Gallery): 25 EUR (approx $27) paid in Turkish Lira using the venue’s applied exchange rate

• Basilica Cistern: 1,500 TL (approx $35)

Good to know:
Many major sites accept credit/debit cards. The Basilica Cistern entry is cashless (card/bank card and Istanbulkart).
No hidden costs: on our private and guided tours, entrance fees are included — no last-minute surprises.

Turkish cuisine is a highlight of visiting, with fresh ingredients and satisfying meals even in simple local spots.

Tipping: many restaurants may add a service charge. If a service charge is not shown, 10–15% is an acceptable gratuity for good service.

Alcohol: alcohol is legal and available in many restaurants and bars (beer, wine, and raki).

A private guide makes Istanbul easier and more enjoyable — especially for first-time visitors. With your private guide, you will not need to rush or feel stressed in a new city. We tailor the day to your interests, pace, and comfort, and handle logistics smoothly.

A group tour follows a fixed schedule with multiple travelers. It can be a budget option, but you usually have less flexibility, limited personal attention, and a pace that may not match your interests.

A private guided tour is a premium experience designed around you:

• Fully customizable itinerary (history, food, neighborhoods, shopping or no shopping)

• Your pace, not the group’s (ideal for families, couples, seniors)

• Smarter timing to reduce waiting and keep the day smooth

• Deeper storytelling and more time for questions

• No hidden costs and no shopping pressure

• Comfort and privacy for VIP-style travel

Book a private guide in Istanbul:
https://www.privateistanbulwalkingtours.com/private-guided-istanbul-tours

We can meet at your hotel lobby, a central landmark, or another agreed meeting point. You will receive clear meeting instructions in advance.

Yes, if your schedule and port timing allow. Share your ship details and arrival time and we will plan the best meeting point.

Many tours are walking-based. If needed, we can use tram/metro/ferry, or arrange a private vehicle for comfort and convenience.

For major sights, starting around 08:30 AM is often best to reduce crowds. We also offer afternoon starts if you prefer a slower morning.

Yes. Tell us your dietary needs in advance and we will tailor the food stops accordingly.

Yes. We can keep it lighter, focus on tastings you are comfortable with, or build a non-food tour instead.

It depends on the tour. We confirm what is included (tastings and beverages) before booking.

Yes. Private Istanbul Walking Tours is a women-led business. Derya is an English-speaking, professional licensed tour guide with over 15 years of experience. We offer tours with a female tour guide in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, and beyond.

Yes. Private tours are ideal for families because we can add breaks, choose stroller-friendly routes, and adjust pacing.

Often yes, with planning. Some historic areas have hills, stairs, and cobblestones, so we design the route to match your comfort level.

Yes. We can focus on a smaller area (Old City highlights, a neighborhood walk, or a scenic Bosphorus-focused day).

You can make a reservation by calling, emailing, or using our website. Payment options include bank transfer and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express / AMEX).

We recommend booking at least four weeks in advance to ensure availability. Our agency is small, so guide availability is limited.

The cancellation fee will be calculated as follows:

• Canceled up to 14 days before departure: no charge

• Canceled from 13 to 10 days before departure: 30% of total trip cost

• Canceled from 9 to 6 days before departure: 50%

• Canceled less than five days before departure: 100%

When you make a booking, you agree to the Booking Conditions for all members of your group.