Tuesday, 9 September 2014

ISTANBUL, TURKEY

 


GENERAL INFO:
Turkey: Turkey population 75m, area size 783,562 sq km. 43 million visit Turkey.

VISA & OTHER INFO:
Turkey visa cost Rs 4000 fee plus Rs 4000 www.globalgateway.com.tr fee. You may be asked confirm that you have a return ticket, hotel reservation and at least US $ 50 per day for each day of your stay. Long visa is issued for upto 90 days by vsf. Or If have permanent residency or Schengen  visa 30 days visa on line  cost Rs 4000. https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ 

Turkish Residence Permit: Those who wish to stay longer than issued visa can apply to Imigration office for 1 to 3 years Turkish resident permit. Once application is made the receipt acts as visa for overstay until the card is issued. 

Communication: English is not widley spoken so Google Translate App comes handy. One can type or speak and get it translated.

Season to visit: April to October. In April city has Istanbul Tulip Festival

Currency Turkish Lira: TL to INR is 1 to 10 (Check todays exchange rate)

Flight: Mumbai Istanbul flight duration is 7 hours, Fare Rs 45000

SIM: Turkcell tourist sim for Rs 1200 is available, Turk cell basic plan (6GB, 500 local calls and 1000 sms) for 120 TL. Make sure phone is unlocked.

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel booking through www.booking.comRental furnished apartment through www.airbnb.comwww.sahibinden.comwww.hurriyetemlak.com

Driving: Istanbul has excellent Public Transport, however neighbouring provinces can be explored by hiring cars from Airport. Foreigners  may drive in Turkey with their valid photo driving licence with regardless of its country of issue

Airport Transport: Metro link is under construction. Currently Istanbul new airport has Havaist buses cost 25 tl which connect to city. https://hava.ist/en/ , Istanbul Ataturk Airport is connected by Metro M1. Sabiha Gokchen Airport is near Pendik on Asian side. 1 hour Havalimani bus from Kadikoy.

SIGHTSEEING: Istanbul has long history of Eastern Roman Byzentian empire and Otoman empire. Most historical places are in Sultanahmet area of 2km radius on European side- Hagia sophiia, Blue mosque, Topkapi palace, Grand Bazaar (61 covered streets, 22 entrances, 4,000 shops), Basilica Cistern (Reservoir) and most are close in same vicinity. Istanbul has over 3,000 mosque with room for ladies to pray too. 200 Mosques in Eminonu district alone.

Istanbul 7th largest city, population is 15m and area size is 5,343Km2. It is city built on 7 hills. City is divided by Bosphorus river in two parts in Europe (30% land accommodates 70% of population) and Asia. 13 million tourist visit annually to Istanbul. 

Istanbul is historical yet modern, amazing city. There are around 100 malls in city, in addition there are many market areas as well as weekly markets in various aeas on different days. Istanbul has excellent public transport consisting 5 Tram lines, 6 Metro lines (additional 8 under construction), Boats, 4 Funiculars, 2 Cable cars, Marmaray coastal train, Metrobus, city buses and mini bus (Dolmush) covering 140 km of city radius. Good network of intercity bus network and intrcity trains too to explore other cities. (Listed below)

Other cities to visit are Ankara, Bursa, Channakale, Denizli (Pammukale), Keysari (Cappadosia), Gazientepe are main cities and many coastal cities as Izmir, Bodrum, Antalya, Analya and towns are famous for beaches.

Turkish cuisine is very famous, mainly breakfast, bakeries, grills, kebabs, lunch, sweets, fresh juices, beverages, fish restaurants

Breakfast: 
kahvalti (Turkish breakfast), Menemen (Egg in vegetables), Kyumak (Cheese dish), Hydari (Yougurt dip), Fresh jams

Fast food: Simit (Bagel), Balık-Ekmek/Donner-Ekmek (Fish or Donner sandwich), Kokoreç (intestine sandwich), Lahmacun (Thin crust without cheese), Pide (Pizza), Doner (Rotate), Midye dolma (Mussels mixed with rice), Kumpir (Jacket potato), Su boregi (soaked), Tavuk Pilav (chicken & rice), Borek (Baked filled pastry), Cigara Borek (Spring rolls), Gozleme (Stuffed paratha), Durum (roll), Tantuni (Mince roll), Pogaca (stuffed pastie), Islak burger, Kestane (Chestnuts), Misir (Corn), 

Turkish Dishes: Dolma (Rice in gape leaves), Corba (lentil soup), Bugur (Cuscus), kisir (Bugur salad), Kuru fasule (Stewed beans), Mantı (Mini Ravioli), Mercimek kofte (Bugur kofte), Saksuka (Vegetable korma), Inegol kofte (kebabs), Iskender kebabCag kebabŞiş KebapAdana kebabTesti kebab (Baked in pot), hunkar begendi (Meat & Eggplant,), Hamsili pilav (Anchovies with rice), Perde pilav (chicken rice in pastry), İmam Bayıldı (stuffed aubergine), kuzu tandir (slow cooked lamb), Secuk (cured meat sausage), Meze (small dishes), Dried vegetables dishes, Steamed fish, Kofte (meatball), KavurmaHummus, Olives, Pickled vegetables, Achuka (Spicy paste),  Acma, Ekmek (bread), Lavash, Bazlama (Naan bread), 

Sweets: Baklava (baked pastry), Sekerpare (sugar syrup soaked biscuits), Lokma (fried fritters)KataifiKunefe (cheese pastry)Firin sutlac (Rice pudding), Muhallebi (Rice pudding), Kazan dibi (Caramalised milk pudding), Trilece cake, Asure (made from leftovers in Noha's ark when he landed on Mount Ararat on 10th of Muharram), Dondurma (Ice cream), Lokum/Turkish delight, Helva, Traditional Cakes Güllaç (milk and flour), Kayısı Tatlısı (Apricot dish), Katmer (sweet borek), Sambali (Semolina cake), Macun (Candy),

Drinks: Shalep (flower drink), Boza (grain drink), Fresh fruit juicesTavuk göğsü (Milk pudding with chicken), Tea and Coffee

Weekly Markets: Everyday 25 weekly markets are set in Istanbul in different areas which are more than fruit and veg, fish, bread, cheese, textiles, household items etc. It is ottoman tradition. Weekly Markets starts early as 7am and open till 7pm with over 500 stalls. 

Mon- Pazarturk/Bahcelievler, Unkapanı/fatih, Ferikoy/sisli, Goztepe/Ozguluk Park, Basibuyuk/maltepe (M1), 
TueKadikoy/behind Sogutlucesme Metrobus Station, Beykoz, 
WedFatih/behind mosqueYesilkoyUskudar/Selimiye, Sultangazi, Bostnci  
ThurErenkoy, karakoy, Ortakoy,  
Fri- Findikzade/KadikoyFındıkzade, Ahmediye Mahallesi/Uskudar, Avcılar, Kasımpasa/Taksim, Ferikoy/Bomonti/Şişli  
SatBasiktasBagcılar/Istiklal street, Bakirkoy, SunKucukcekmece, İkitelli/Başakşehir, Tepeüstu

Istanbul Malls (There are over 100 malls): 

European side: Sisli- Istanbul CevahirLevantOzdilek Park , KanyonZorlu CentreMetrocity4 Levant- Saphire mall, Osmanbey- NisantasiGayrettepe- Astoria centreProfilo CentreMecidiyekoy- Trump Alisveris Merkezi, Aksaray- Historia ShoppingYenikapi- Istanbul AVMEmiounu- Spice BazaarSultanahmet- Grand bazaarEyupsultan- Isfanbul Shopping MallBayrampasa- Axis IstanbulBakirkoy- Marmara Forum, Galleria, Capacity centreCarousel CentreBakirkoy Underground centreZeytinburnu- Olivium Centre, Atakoy- Atakoy Plus Mall, Atrium Alisversi MerkeziFlorya Akvaryum- Aqua FloryaFlyinn MallNispeteye- AkmerkezOrtakoy mosque- Ortakoy PazarGaziosmanpasa- Viaport venezia mallIkitelli- Mall of IstanbulHalkali (5km)- Arena Park mallKocatepe- Forum Istanbul mallBahcelievler- StarcityIstinye- Istinye Park, Sariyar- Vadiistanbul MallEsenyurt- Akbati, Marmara Park, ToriumBeylikduzu- Perlavista

Asian side: Unalan- Akasya, Emaar mallUskudar- Mall of Antalya, Kadikoy- Kozzy Centre, Tepe Nautilus Merkezi, Seyrantepe, PalladiumOptimum mallBrandium 5km, Metropol Istanbul 5kmYanisehara, Watergarden (water show)- Atasehir, Pendik- ViaportMaltepe- Maltepe Park, Hilltown, Piazza mall, Tuzla- Viaport Marina

Istanbul Parks: European side- Fatih- Gulhane ParkKadirga Park,  Sarachane Park, Sultanahmet Park, Mehmet Akif Park, Hashim Iscan Park, Eyupsultan- Golden Horn Park, Tekke Park, Besiktas- Yildiz Park, Ortakoy Park, Cemil Topuzlu ParkMacka Parki, Abbasaga Park, Ihlamur Park, kuruçeşme ParkiBebek- Bebek ParkiBasaksehir- Water Valley ParkKasimpasa- Sururi ParkMerter- Cirpici City ParkZeytinburnu- Kazlicesme Beach ParkFeneryolu- Ozgurluk Parki, Istiniye- Emigan Park,.

Beaches: 15 beaches north of Sariyer. 18 km beach strech on Black sea.
European side 13km North of Sariyer- Babylon Beach (60tl), Uzunya beach (40tl) Both in kilyos, Burc (20tl), Dalia (25tl), Golden (30tl), Solar (30tl), Suma (60tl), Nonstop (30tl). Baukus plaji is quite beach.

Asian side 70km North of Uskudar- Sile- Aglanyan kaya beach, Baia beach, Sile Aqua beach, Ayazma plajiUzunkum, Sile plaji, Kabakoz koyu plaji, Akcakese Halk plaji, Karakacoy plaji, Agva- Suayipli koyu plaji, Agva plaji.


PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Istanbul has Tram, Metro, Ferry, Fenicular, Intercity, city and mini bus offering good Public Transport to expolre 140 km radius city. https://airmundo.com/en/airports/istanbul-airport/transportation/

Mobile Applications: Taxi app Bitaksi Public transport Bus/Metro app TrafiUber istanbul, Yandex info, 

Istanbulkart cost 6tl is a travel card offers 40% discount. Card can be used for all public transport. You pay 3TL plus 2TL for connecting journey within two hours. It can be loaded with desired amount. From Akbil Dolumn are counter who can make it Aylik (monthly) card for 200tl will give 200 entries.

Istanbul Maps: Transport Map, Route plannerBoat map, City Map 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, Districts Map, Istanbul map...

BOSPHORUS BOATS:  Boats to Yelova- Bursa

Istanbul is divided in two parts by Bosphorus river (31 km long, 3.7 km wide) connecting Black sea in north to sea of Marmara in south (Over 125 cargo vessels cross daily between north and south). 3.7 km wide Bosphorus divides Istanbul city in two parts as European side (west 30%) (Population 9 million) and Asian side (east 70%) (Population 6 million). There are 3 suspension bridge for motor vehicles and under water tunnel is under construction connecting East to West. Istanbul has 36 districts. Europe 25 and Asia 14 districts.

In addition 30 large boats and many smaller SuBus operate as zigzag between both sides through 34 city ports (Iskele) as public transport used by 300,000 passengers daily commuting between east and west. Most find water transport most economical, efficient and fun way to commute in Istanbul. SuBus operate every 15 miutes with 30 minutes journey crossing Bosphourus.


Bosphorus cruise 25tl. Boat leaves from Eminonu 10.30am (10.50 am from Bashiktas) goes north towards black sea touching six ports and reaches Reaches Anadolo Kavagi last stop in Sariyar at 12 noon. Last stop has many restaurants and Castle. Ship returns at 3pm reaches eminonu at 4.30pm

For Princes islands Buyukada (largest island) take boat from Eminonu, Kadikoy  or Kabatash (tram last stop) cost 6tl. It takes 90 minutes to reach.

Boat Piers (Iskelers) North to South: 

European side: Sirkeci (Marmaray), Eminonu (Promenade, Galta bridge, Spice bazaar), Karakoy, Beyoglu, Kabatash (T1, F1) Macka ParkiDolmabahche Palace walking, Besiktas (Promenade, fish marketZorlu centre mallSaturday marketYildizMacka, Ulus park, Sannat Cat parkSaturday market), Ortakoy (Ortakoy PazarOrtakoy mosque, Arnavutkoy, Bebek (Promenade, Park, Bebek) Istinye (Park Mall 3kmMarinaEmigan Park(kuruso park/tulip festival (10th to 30th April), Yenikoy, Buyukdere, Sariyer,

Golden Horn boat stations on European side: Boat trip from Eminonu: Fener, Balat (Old houses), Awansaray, Sutluce [nearby Miniaturk], Kasimpasa (Sururi Park) in Goldern HornGolden Horn ParkEyub as Last stop (Eyub Ansari) [Pier loti cable car], (Tekke ParkIstanbul Dolpinerium), 

Asian Side: Anadol Ukavagi, Beykoz (Otagtepe Park), Pashabahce, Cubuklu, Kanalica, Anadoluhisar, Kandili, Cengelkoy, Beylerbryi (PromenadePalace, Garden, Park), Kuzunchuk, Uskudar (Promenade, Nakkastepe Millet Park, Kiz kulesi) kuzguncuk (Old houses), Harem, Hyderpasha, Kadikoy (Promenade, Moda, Tuesday and Friday marketCaddebstan Dalyan ParkModa ParkGoztepe ParkFenerbahce park (Cats) 5km), Bostanci (Promenade), 

Princes Island (4 big and 5 small islands) 1 hour from Kadikoy: Buyukada (Promenade, hiking, Nature ParkHotels, Blue beach etc- Yoruk Ali beach, Princess beach, Kumsal beach and Nakibey beach), Heybeliada , Burgazada, Kinalida. Small ones- Sedef Adasi, Yassiada, Sivriada, Kasik Ada, Tavsan Adasi.  

 


Tram system:  

T1 is 18km, 31 stations East west Tram system from Kabatash to Bagcilar on European side.
Stations: Kabatash (Boat, FenicularPromenade, Dolmabahche Palace), Findikli, Tophane, Karakoy (Boat, Fenicular)(Golden horn creek bridge, Galata tower), Eminonu (Boat)(Spice Bazaar), Serkeci (Boat, Marmaray), Gulhane (Park), Sultanahmet- 3km radius historical places- (Blue Mosque, Topkapi palace, Hagia Sophia, Grand bazaarBasilica Cistern-Reservoir), Chemberlitas (Hamami), Beyazit (Grand Bazaar map, 22 Entrances, 61 covered streets, 5000 shops ), Lali University (Vezneciler M2, Sulemania mosque), Aksaray, Yusuf Pasha (M1), Haselki, Findikzade, Capa Sehremini, Pazartekke, Topkapi (T4, Metrobus, Kultur Park), Cevizlibag AOY, Merkezefendi, Aksemesttin, Mithatpasa, Zeytinburunu (Metrobus), Mehmet Akif, Merter Tekstil Merkezi, Gungoren, Akincilar, Soganli, Yavuaz Selim, Gunestepe, Bagcilar

T2 is 1.6km Nostalgic Tram with 5 stations on European Side.
Stations: Taksim (Istiklal streetMadam TusadesDervish museumGalata tower, Macka Sannat Park/Cat Park, Cihangir area), Aga Camil, Galatasaray, Odakule, Beyoglu 

T3 is 2.6km Nostalgic circular tram at Kadikoy-Moda on Asian side.
Stations: Kadikoy IDO, Damga, Muburdar, Moda, Ilkokulu, Kilise, Bahriye, Altiyol, Carsi, Iskile Cami

T4 is 15km, 22 stations North South Tram system from Topkapi to Mescid-i-selam on European side. 
Stations: Topkapi (T1, Metrobus), Fetihkapi, Vatan (M1), Edirnekapi, Sehitlik (Metrobus), Demirkapi, Topcular, Rami, Uluyol Berec, Sagmalcilar, Bosna Cukurcesme, Ali Fuat basgil, Taskopru, Karadeniz, Kiptas-Venezia (Viaport venezia mall (Gondola), Cumhuriyet, 50 Yil Bashtabya, Haci Sukru, Yeni Mahalle, Sultanciftligi, Cebeci, Mescid-i-selam,

T5 is 10km, 14 stations North South Tram system runing along Golden Horn from Eminonu to Alibeykoy on European side. Under construction.


Metro System:

M1 is 26km, 23 stations East west Metro system from Yenikapi to Ataturk Havaliman on European side.
Stations: Yenikapi (Yelova Boat, Marmaray, M2) Istanbul AVM, Aksaray (T1) Historia Shopping, Emniyet-Fatih (Wed market), Topkapi-Ulubatli (T4), Bayrampasa Axis Istanbul , Sagmacilar, Kocatepe (Forum Istanbul mall, Sea Life Aquarium, Legoland), Otogar ( Main Bus stand), Terazidere, Davutpasa-YTU, Merter (Metrobus) Cirpici City Park, Zeytinburnu (Betrobus, T1), Bakirkoy-Incirli Marmara ForumSaturday market/ Osmaniye, , Bachcelievler (Metrobus) (Mon Market), Atakoy-Sirinevler (Metrobus) Atrium Alisversi Merkezi, Yenibosna, DTM- Istanbul Expo Centre, Ataturk Havalimani (Airport),  [M1B from Otogar- Esenler, Menderes, Ucyuzlu, Bagcilar Meydan (T1), Kirazli (M3)]

M2 is 24km, 16 stations North South Tram system from Yenikapi to Haciosman on European side.
Stations: Yenikapi (M1, Marmaray, Boat), Vezneciler (T1), Halic over Golden Horn, Sishane (Fenicular, T2), Taksim (Fenicular, T2), Osmanbey (Nisantasi Mall), Sisli-Mecidiyekoy (Metrobus) Trump Alisveris MerkeziCevaher & Ozdilik mall), Gayrettepe (Metrobus) Astoria centreProfilo CentreLevent (M6)(MetrocityKanyon , Zorlu Centre mall), 4 Levent (Saphire mall), Sanayi, [Shuttle from Sanayi to Seyrantepe (F3 to Vadiistanbul Mall 3kml), ITU-Ayazaga, Ataturk Oto Sanayi, Darussafaka, Haciosman.

M3 is 15km, 11 stations North South Metro on European side.
Stations: Kirazli (M1), Yenimahalle, Mahmutbey, ISTOC, Ikitelli Sanayi (M9)(Mall of Istanbul shuttle), Umraniye, Turgut Ozal, Siteler, Basak Konutlari, Basaksehir Metrokent (Water Valley Park)

M4 is 26km, 19 stations East west Metro system from Kadikoy to Tavsantepe on Asian side 
Stations: Kadikoy (T3, Boat)(Tuesday and Friday market, Romantika Fenerbahce park), Ayrilik Cesmesi (Marmara), Acibadem, Unalan (Metrobus)(Emaar mallAkasya 4km), Goztepe, Yenisahra (PalladiumWatergarden (water show), Metropol Istanbul 5km, Watergarden mall 3km, Optimum mall), Kozyatagi, Bostanci, Kucukyali, Maltepe, Huzurevi, Gulsuyu, Esenkent, Hastane-Adliye, Soganlik, Kartal, Yakacik-Adnan Kahveci, Pendik, Tavasantepe

M5 is 20km, 15 stations East west Metro system from Uskudar to Cekmekoy on Asian side.
Stations: Uskudar (Marmary, Boat), Fistikagaci, Baglarbasi, Altunizade (Metrobus), Kisikli (Çamlıca MosqueKucuk Camlica Korusu), Bulgurlu-Libadiye, Umraniye, Carsi, Yamanevler, Cakmak, Ihlamurkuyu, Altinsehir, Imam Hatip, Dudullu, Necip Fazil, Cekmekoy

M6 is 3km, 4 stations: 
Stations: Levent, Nispetiye (Akmerkez mall), Etiler, Bogazici Univercity on European side.

M7 is 26km, 19 stations East west Metro system from Kabatas to Mehmutbey on European side. Under Construction

M8 is 14km, 13 stations North South Metro system from Bostanci to Dudullu on Asian side. Under Construction

M9 is 13km, 12 stations North South Metro system from Atakoy to Ikitelli on European side. Under Construction

M10 is 9km, 6 stations North South Metro system from Pendik to Sabiha Gokcen Airport on Asian side. Under Construction

M11 is 37km, 9 stations East west Metro system from Gayrettepe to Halkali on European side. Under Construction

M12 is 13km, 11 stations North South Metro system from Goztepe to Kazim Karabekir on Asian side. Under Construction (on hold)

M13 is 7km, 6 stations North South Metro system from Hastane to Yenidogan on Asian side. Under Construction (on hold)

Marmaray (Metro) is 76km, 75 stations running every 15 minutes, East west Metro system from Halkali on European side passing through Bosphorus tunnel to Gebze on Asian side.
Stations on European side: Haliki Arena Park mall 5km, Mustafakemal (Kucukcekmece lake, Kanarya sahil), Kuchocheme, Florya, Florya Aquarium (Aqua FloryaAquariumBeach Park, Ataturk OrmaniFlyinn Mall), Yesilkoy (Wednesday market), Yesilyurt, Atakoy (Metrobus) Atakoy Plus Mall, Bakirkoy (GalleriaCapacity centreCarousel CentreBakirkoy Underground centreSahil parki), Yeni Mahalle, Zeytinburnu (Olivium CentreKazlicesme Beach Park), Kazlicesme, Yenikape Istanbul AVM, Serkeci on European side.

Under Boshorous

Stations on Asian side (50km from Uskudar): Uskudar (Friday MarketCamlica Park, Camlica Mosque), <Hyderpasha>, Ayrilik Cesmesi, Sogutlucesme, Feneryolu (Bagdad Street CarrefourOzgurluk Park), Goztepe (Goztepe park, Bagdad street), Ernekoy (Cadebostan beach, Dylan Promenade Park), Suadiye (Dylan Park, Bagdad street), Bostanci (Brandium 5km, Promenade, Luna theme park, Wed market), Kutukyali (Sahil Park), Idealtepe (Sahil Park), Sureyya plaji (Sahil Park), Maltepe (Beach Park, Orhangazi sehir parki), Civizli, Atalar, Basak, Kartal, Yunus, Pendik, Kaynarca (Sahil boulevard) , Tersana (Sahil boulevard), Guzelyali (Promenade), Aydintepe (Sahil boulevard), Icemelar (Sahil boulevard), Tuzla Tersane (Beach Park, Viaport Marina), Cayirova, GTU-Fatih, Osmangazi (Sahili), Darica (sahil park is 3km, Darica zoo), Gebze is last stop of metro, Eskihsar (3km) is seaside close to Gebze. 

MGD: Gezbe Darica Metro is 14km, 12 stations North South Metro system in Kocaeli Province. Under construction.

Funicular System:

F1 Taksim - Kabatash on European side.

F2 Karakoy - Beyoglu/Sishane on European side.

F3 Seyranptepe - Vadi Istanbul on European side (Vadi Istanbyul Mall).

F4 Asiyan - Bogazici Univercity on European side.

Cable Car System:

TF1 Taskishla - Macka on European side. Maçka Gondola is a two-station gondola-type line of aerial lift passenger transport system situated in Şişli district of Istanbul, it  connects Maçka neighborhood with Taşkışla quarter close to Taksim Square. 

TF2 Eyup - Pier Loti on European side. (Istanbul Dolphinarium, Isfana mall, Vialand Theme Park, from eminonu bus 99, 99Y 36CE, 55T from Taksim), 

(From Eyup Sultan take Gondola across  Golden horn to Sutuche take bus 41ST, 47C, 47 after 3 stops get off at Miniature Turkey Model buildings).


Metrobus system:

Istanbul Metrobus (Map) goes from Söğütlüçeşme on Asian side to Beylikdüzü Sondurak/ Esenyurt on European side, 50km BRT system with 45 stations.  
Sirinevler on M1 to Beylikdüzü is 23km by Metrobus. 

Beylikduzu and Ensuryat are new areas and by Metrobus 34C it is 28km from Cevizlibag (T1) or Zeytinburunu (T1, M1).

Ensuryat and Beylikdüzü: Beach is 5km, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan ParkıBeylikduzu Thursday/Saturday bazaar
Ensuryat- Malls- AkbatiMarmara ParkTorium, City Centre AVM
Beylikdüzü- Malls- Perlavista- Beylikduzu
 
Buyukcekmece beach and lake is 10km

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From Istanbul-  Other areas to visit and Travel methods:

Boats: IDO Boat networkBUDO & IDO operate this route for Bursa ( 1 1/2 hours ferry to Yalova, Mudanya) and Izmir (Bandirma 2 hours ferry). 

Car Hire: Best way to travel is by hiring car costing from 23 Euros per day.

Trains (Intercity): Pendik is intercity railway station. Train travel by various train. Trains map 1, map 2

Trains stations. YHT fast train from Söğütlüçeşme (1.7 km from Kadikoy metro station/ jetty) or catch at Pendik (Marmaray line) for Gebze (1 hour), Izmit (90 minutes), Arifiye (2 hour) (Spanca), Eskisehir (3 hour), Ankara (4 hour)Morning trains leave at 6.00, 6.49, 9.30, 11.30.

Ankara to Cappadocia. From Ankara railway station take metro to Otogar and take bus (5 hour) to Nevsehir & Gorëme near Cappadocia. Keysari is 70km from Cappadocia it has ortahisar houses in cliff.

Ankara to Konya (2 hours). 

Konya to Antalya (5 hours) & Analya  (6 hours) Connecting bus at Konya as train+bus combo ticket. Bus to Isparta (5 hours)

Eskisehir to Denizli- Pamukkale (8 hour),

Eskisehir to Izmir (11pm sleeper reaches Basmane Izmir 9.42am- Return Izmir 6pm Eskisehir 4.32 am), 

Other option for Izmir is to take ferry from Yenikapy/Istanbul to Bandirma  (2 hours ferry) and further Bandirma (railway station opposit jetty to basmane/Izmir train (6 hours)/ Bus Otogar is 10km away (30tl taxi) and 268km, 4.25 hours. Direct bus from Istanbul to Izmir is 9 hours and flight takes 1 hour.
Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye are connected from Izmir by bus or train through Aydin


Airports: Istanbul has 3 airports- Istanbul Airport and Ataturk Airport on European side and Sabiha Gokchen Airport in Asian side. Domestic airlines are Onur Air, PegasusSun express Turkish Airways. Antalya, Adana, Izmir, Denizli, Trabzon all are over 1 hour by flight from Istanbul. Return flight Rs 4,000. Havas bus connects to city. (Istanbul Airport and Ataturk Airport on European side and Sabiha Gokchen Airport in Asian side. Domestic airlines are Onur Air, PegasusSun express Turkish Airways) 
Airports: Adana, Alanya, Amasya, Ankara, Antakya/Hatay, Antalya, Bodrum, Bursa,  Çorlu, Dalaman, Denizli (Pamukkale), Diyarbakır, Erzurum, Gaziantep, Giresun, Istanbul, İzmir, Kars, Kayseri (Cappadocia)Konya, Kütahya, Malatya, Nevşehir, Ordu, Samsun, Şanlıurfa, Sivas, Trabzon, Van.


Otogars (Bus stand) Istanbul has two Otogars for Intercity buses. European side- Otogar Metro station, Asian side- Harem otogar near Uskudar, 

Driving: Istanbul has excellent Public Transport, however neighbouring provinces can be explored by hiring cars from Airport or city office. Foreigners  may drive in Turkey with their valid photo driving licence for 6 months. The licence and passport must be translated in Turkish and Notarised. Toll has to be paid by HGS electronic (chip/ sticker) toll payment. At any post office (Ptt) HGS registrtion (10tl) can be done and pay minimum 30tl credit which will be automatically deducted at toll. Topup can be done at postoffice or with app on phone.  
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North of Istanbul:

Beaches On European side 13km North of Sariyer to Black sea are: 
Babylon (kilyos), Uzunya, Burc, Dalia, Golden, Solar, Suma, Nonstop, Nakibey, Elio Sedef, 
(All beaches are in 15km strech).

From Harem on Asian side 60km North of Istanbul on Black sea are: UzunkumAqua greenSile (65km) From Harem on Asian side Bus139 to Sile, Agva 90km Bus139A to Agva- E are Express buses- 3hrs, 10tl or 1.30 hours drive by car. Rumeli, Kavak, Kerpe, Kefken, Pembe, kayalar, cebeci beaches are next to each other. 110km from Sabiha Gokchen Airport. 

There are many private beach clubs charging 30TL to 50TL for using facilities. 


East of Istanbul: 

Kocaeli (Map) Province is next to Istanbul on east with 12 districts- Darıca (zoo)Çayırova, Gebze (Marmaray Metro last stop), Districts touching Gulf of Izmit are- DilovasıKörfezDerince, İzmit (Capital of Kocaeli, has Tramway in city, 90km from Uskudar. Intercity trains stop at Izmit. ), BaşiskeleGölcük (14km from Izmit)Karamürsel (35km from Izmit across bay, boat operates on some ports) Kartepe (Sapanca LakeMasukiye’s forestSki Resort   Green Park Resort 18km), Kandıra (North of Izmit, touches Black sea on coastal road- Insaniye, Karasu, Caferiye, AkcakocaAlapli, EregliZondulzak). 

Izmit, BaşiskeleGölcük (14km from Izmit)Karamürsel (35km from Izmit across bay,  connected by passenger boat service)

İzmit  Tramvay- Seka Park, Gar, Halkevi, Villayet, Adliye, Anit Park, Valilik, Kanal Boyu, Yorktur, Yahya Kaptan, Otogar. Izmit to Bursa via Yelova is 135km, 
Malls: Arasta ParkOzdilek Kocaeli, 41 AVMDolphin Center,  NCITY Alisveris Merkezi, Thurs Market

From Karamürsel Inland 35km to Boyalica is Iznik Lake 

Car hire (www.carflexi.com) in Izmit is best option to explore beaches of north and Trabzon. 

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Sakarya Province has 16 district is next to Kocaeli. Spanca (225km, 90 minutes journey from Istanbul) is one district and Spanca lake borders to Kocaeli. Istanbul Arifiye train passes through south side of lake to full length of lake (16km). Some trains stop at Sapanca town and fast train stop at the end of lake at Arifiye.

How to get here: There is direct (Istanbul- Arifiye) from Sogutlucesme (Near Kadikoy (2km) or Pendik to Spanca, there are daily 3 trains. Or take high speed train direct to Arifiye (7.30am, 10.45am takes under 90 minutes), than Dolmush to Masukiye, (There is return train from Arifiye at 8.17 pm to Pendik, Istanbul. OR Best option is to hire a car in Izmit (www.carflexi.com) or www.rentacarss.com in Sapanca.

Areas around south side of Sapanca lake are; Masukiye Kultural Park (River and waterfalls), Muharrem Kulube Aile Piknik Alanikurtköy park, Yağız PeyzajSapanca town (Malls- Sapanca centre, Symbol mall, ,
From Sapanca townSopli (6km), Mahmudiye (8km), Naturkoy (8km), Masalkoy macera park (12 km), Kartepe Ski Resort & Green Park Resort  (25km),  Golbasi Picnic Area,  3.5km from Arifiye

To North is Karasu beach 65km. (Karasu beach to Eregil (80k), Zonguldak (50km) on Black sea.
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Eskisehir (3 hours from Istanbul) has Tram, It is like Venice with canals and boats. (2 hours by High Speed Train from Pendik.  
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Ankara (4 hours from Istanbul by fast train). Ankara has Metro has two lines (M1 & M4), M1 is 32 stops and has merged M2 and M3 in it. M4 is under construction. City has tramvay and Yenimahalle-Şentepe TeleferikKeçiören Gondola, Tünektepe Gondola.
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Konya altitude 4000ft, Konya is 290km from Ankara and High speed train takes under 2 hours from Ankara.  Konya is 1.30 hour by flight from Istanbul. Return flight Rs 4,000. Airport is 15km from city centre, Havas bus connects to city, 30 minutes journey 8tl.  City has tram, City map, 
Sightseeing: Mevlana Mausoleum (3km from train station), Tile Museum (Karatay Medresisi), Around the world in 80 thousand parkkültür parkKyoto Japanese ParkEcdat Parkı,   

"Mevlâna" Jalal al-Din Muhammad Rumi, founder of the Sufi Mevlevi order (known for the Whirling Dervishes and wrote Masnavi Shaerif), spent the last fifty years of his life in Konya. His tomb is located here. 
(Antalya to Konya is 300km. There is direct train takes 7 hrs).
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Istanbul to Cappadocia:
From Ankara railway station take metro to Otogar and take bus (5 hour) to Nevsehir & Gorëme are 60km from Cappadocia. flight to Kayseri (100km). Kayseri is 1.30 hour by flight from Istanbul. Return flight Rs 5,000. Many tour operators offer airport transfer.

Goreme is 60km from Cappadocia,  
Nevsehir is 60km from Cappadocia,  
Urgup is 50km from Cappadocia,
Kayseri is 100km from CappadociaErciyes Lifos GondolaKeysari has ortahisar houses in cliff.

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North East- Izmit to Trabzon and Rize mountain route.
Circular mountain trip from- Izmit -  Sapanca 25km, Bolu 188km (Golchuk Lake 12km from Bolu),  Tosya 450km, Merzifon 600km, Erzincan 1,000km (Malls: Erzincan Mall), Askale 1,150km, Uzongol 1,450,  Rize 1,800km. 

Erzurum (Palandöken Gondola) airport is neaby. Erzurum mallsMNG MallPalerium Shopping Mall, Forum,  

Circular Coastal trip from- Rize (Tea plantationMalls- İmece Park AvmHapelogluşimal avm), Trabzon 80km (Malls: Varlıbaş AlışverişForum) , Giresun 215km (Hazelnuts, Malls: Sabah Alisveris, G-City AVM), BulancakOrdu 261km (Cable carNovada Mall), Unye 321km, Samsun 410km (Tramway map, 21 stops coastal tram, Amisos Hill TeleferikBoulevard Mall, Piazza), Sinop 568km, Cide 870, Zonguldak 1045km, Akcakoca 1085km, Karasu 1275km, Izmit 1450

Uzongol is 100km from Trabzon as well as Rize (in between to south). Uzungol hotels, Sightseeing

Trabzon is 1.30 hour by flight from Istanbul. Return flight Rs 5,000. Havas bus connects to city which is 6km. (hiring cars from Airport). (Istanbul Airport and Ataturk Airport on European side and Sabiha Gokchen Airport in Asian side. Domestic airlines are Onur Air, PegasusSun express Turkish Airways)

Sightseeing: 


Trabzon city centreSahil, For Uzongol (100km from Trabzon) Dolmus station near ataturk alani there are busses (Çaykara Tur) to Uzungöl via Of and Çaykara from 9 am about every 75 min (e.g. 11.30am, 14 TL, at least 2h). Firtina valley Ayder Highland, Atatürk KoskuAltindere vadisi national parkSurmene Camburnu Tabiat Parkizagnos vadisi parkMalls- Varlıbaş AlışverişForum

Giresun is coastal city on Black sea 130 km from Trabzon, hazelnut and cherries growing region, city has beachMalls: Sabah AlisverisG-City AVM

Ordu is further 50km. city has Promenade, beach Novada Mall, cable car to hilltop village Boztepe (altitude 1,800ft),

Samsun 410km (Tramway map, 21 stops coastal tram, Amisos Hill TeleferikBoulevard MallPiazza),

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West of Istanbul:
Border crossing to Bulgaria: Esenyurt Istanbul to Svilengrad in Bulgaria is 250km, 4 hours allowing for border crossing.

Istanbul to Chanakkale (Map) via Esenyurt 400km, 5 hours drive or Via Gezbe, Bursa is 400km 5 hour drive. Silvri route- Marmara Ereglisi, Tekirdag, Sarkoy, Gelibolu, Sutluce, Burhanlli, Eceabat.
Bursa route- Kopez, Suluka, Lepseki, Dalyan, Cardak, Sevketiye, Bandirma,  (Kus Golu), (Ulubat Golu), Mudanya.. Yalova Canakkale is 250km from Bursa 4 hours drive.
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South of Istanbul: BUDO & IDO operate this route.

Yevola - 2 1/2 hours ferry from Istanbul costing 20tl, Sahil, Beach, Merkez

Mudanya1 1/2 hours speed boat from Istanbul costing 20tl, Sahil, Beach, Merkez

BursaBoats to Yelova-  BUDO & IDO operate this route.

Bursa by road is 100km from Istanbul, 3 1/2 hours journey cost 15tl. Bursa by boat from Yenikapi or Kadikoy to Bursa port in Yalova (55km from Bursa) or Mudanya (19km from Bursa). From port take bus to Bursa metro Emek station (Buy Bursakart for metro, tram and bus) and metro to city centre Sehrekustu. City has modern tram and heritage tram routes too.

Boats: IDO boat From Yanikapi to Yevola (70km from Bursa), IDO has two services 7.30 am and 5.30pm car ferry, takes 80 minutes cost 20tl, speed boat goes to Yalova. Including bus and Metro it takes 2 1/2 hours. 

Bursa is 70km or next stop Guzelyali 5km east of Mudanya and 24km from Bursa. From Kabatas/ kadikoy to GuzelyaliMudanya  passenger speed boat takes 70 minutes. Ferry ticket cost between 15TL to 30 TL. Tourist can only book ferry online only. Other option is Bursa can also be reached by Coach from Istanbul Otogar (155km in 2 hours 30 minutes). 

Bursa is historical green city in foothills (300 ft altitude) of (155km from Istanbul) Uludag in Bithynian Olympus (8k ft) mountain (8,343ft) is a ski resort with Teleferik (cable car) 15TL for 1st station and so on till 4th. 

Bursa has metrotram system. Bursa was first capital of Ottoman empire and is historic city. Grand mosque of Bursa (Ulu Cami), Green mosque (Yasil mosque), Murdiya mosqueEmir sultan mosque, Bursa museum, Botanical garden, ZooKoza Hans market, Kultur ParkIrgandı BridgeOrhan Gazi Squarebalibey han Luna Amusement Park, Merino Park, Temeyeri park, Aqua Park, Hüdavendigar Park, Sukay park, Thermal hotspring at Cekirge. Day tourBursa walking tour map. Malls: KoruparkKent MeydanıZafer PlazaNilparkÖzdilekMeridyen Alisveris.

Bursa Tourism...  Bursa Map... Bursa sightseeingGemlik and Mudanya are Bursa beach areas which are 30km, 40 minutes from Bursa. 

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Izmir is 570km from Istanbul. (1 hour flight from Istanbul), population is 4m, area is 855 Km2,  It is curved shape sea side city with boats used as buses to many areas such as Bostanli, KarsiyakaKonakBalchova, Inner areas are Bornova, GazimereKemralti market is near Konak etc. 
Malls- Forum BronovaAgoraEge park, KipaOzdelick,in Bolchova, Kipa and Optimum in Gazimere. Most mall have prayer room and huge food courts.
Izmir metro is 20km, 17 station line from has East (Bronova to west Fehrettin Altay, south of Izmir Gulf. Izmirim Kart for 6 tl. Changes in 90 minutes still cost 2.80tl per ride. 
Tramvay line 1 also runs from east - Halkpinar, Alsancak, konak connecting south of Izmir Gulf, Goztepe, Balcova, Narlidere, Kaymakamakmalik to west. 
Tramvay line 2 also runs from east - Alabey, Karshika connecting north of Izmir Gulf, Mavisehir in west. 
IZBAN: North also connecting north of of Izmir Gulf to south from Menemen in north to Adnan Manderes airport in south.
Boats used as seabuse to 8 areas- Bostanli (Mavisehir)Karsiyaka, Turan, AlsancakKonak, GoztepeBalchova (Balçova teleferik),  Bargama (has Acropolis teleferik) is inland 35km from centre of Turkey

Izmir map....  Izmir Tourism... Tourism 2... City guide... Real Estate...  Izmir metro... 

Dikili and Foca are coastal towns north of Izmir.  

Bliklivova, Mardogan, Karaburun, Cesme are towns in Urla direction. Cesme is 60km to west of Izmir.

Ozdere is 65km to south from Izmir and it is a small holiday town. There are some Paloma Pas and other resorts in Ozdere. Supermarkets are Tanshas, Pehelvanu, Sok. Saturday is Ozdere market day. Ozdere Images...  Tourism 1... Tourism 2.

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South of Turkey:

Kusadasi  is 40km from Ozdere. Kussadasi and many cities of south west coastal areas have British expats retiring in Turkey or have second home for winter months Nov- Jan 6-10C. Kusadasi  Guide...  Kusadasi forum

Other cities to drive are Selchuk (Ephuses), Sok, DidimBodrumMarmarisOludeniz

Aydin (Didim coastal town is 170km)- Pınarbaşı-Aytepe Gondola


Denizli, a industrial towns for towels, prayers mats and rugs. It is 235km from Izmir. Denizli Gondola. Denizli is 1.30 hour by flight from Istanbul. Return flight Rs 6,000. Airport is 14km from city centre, shuttle service connects to city, 40 minutes journey 24tl. 
Malls: Sinpas aqua mallForum ÇamlıkBabadağlılar BazaarDenizli teleferikMetropolitan Municipality Çamlık Park,      
Pamukkle is hot spring calcium deposited white mountain is further 19km from Denizli. Minibus from Denizli autogar every 15 minutes.
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Isparta is lake city- Konya is 1.30 hour by flight from Istanbul. Return flight Rs 4,000. Airport is 64km from city centre, shuttle service connects to city, 30 minutes journey 14tl. Lake Eğirdir, Lake Kovada, Lake Gölcük, and Kızıldağı National Park. Isparta is the center of rose water and rose oil industry in Turkey.

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Antalya is 1.30 hour by flight from Istanbul. Return flight Rs 4,000. Havas bus connects to city. Antalya is seaside city. 
Sightseeing: konyaaltı beachLara BeachKurşunlu Waterfall (19km), Köprülü CanyonUpper Duden Waterfalls (8km)Antalya ZooAquariumSnow worldAtatürk parkıDokuma parkDuden ParkSahil Yaşam ParkıKaleiçiKaleici Panoramic ElevatorSand Sculpture MuseumAqualand and DolphinlandTunektepe cable car (Kemer 15km), Olympos Teleferik (61km), 
Two Trams (Map) operate in city. AntRay line is 22km with 28 stops connecting Airport and Heritage tram of 5km with 9 stops. Antalya region map..

Towns to east of Antalya: BelekSideAlanya 133km (Gondola), Gazipasa, Mersin up to Adana (600km) are on coastal road. 

To west of Antalya on coastal road KemerFinike, Kas, KalkanFathiye, Oludiniz. Dalaman Airport is 60km from Fathiye.

Holiday chartered flights go to Izmir, Bodrum, Dalaman and Antalya from UK and other north European countries.

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South East of Turkey:
Adana (932 km from Istanbul),  Adana is 1.30 hour by flight from Istanbul. Return flight Rs 6,000. Airport is 5km from city centre, shuttle service connects to city. Adana metro is 13km 13 station system.

Gaziantep (1150km from Istanbul),(from Adana 222km). Gazientepe is 1.30 hour by flight from Istanbul. Return flight Rs 6,000. Airport is 15km from city centre, shuttle service connects to city. Gaziantepe Metro connects main railway station.



 


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