Just Landed in Istanbul? Here’s What to Do Next

A Local’s Guide to Getting Started in the City

Welcome to Istanbul – a city that greets you with the scent of roasted chestnuts, the call to prayer echoing through the air, and a skyline where domes and minarets dance with seagulls. But right now, you’ve just stepped off the plane, probably a bit tired, and asking yourself: “What’s next?”

Let’s take it step by step.

1. Istanbul Airport Is Not Exactly ‘Central’

The main airport (Istanbul Airport – IST) is located on the European side, but far from the city center – about 40 to 60 minutes by car depending on traffic.

You might think a taxi is the easiest solution, but here's the honest truth:

🚕 Taxis in Istanbul can be complicated – inconsistent pricing, selective drivers, and language barriers are all common issues.

💼 Instead, we recommend arranging a private transfer (VIP van) ahead of time.

It’s safer, cleaner, and more comfortable – especially after a long flight. At Eternal Wonder Tours, we provide door-to-door airport transfers, so your journey begins stress-free.

2. Arrived at the Hotel – Now How Do You Explore?

If you’re staying around Sultanahmet, Beyazıt, or Karaköy, you’re well positioned. The T1 tram line is your best friend. It’s modern, reliable, and connects nearly all major historic sites: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and more.

🛑 A small warning:

While taking a taxi from your hotel in the morning is usually okay, many taxis refuse short-distance rides in the evening – especially from touristic zones. Plan ahead.

🎫 To use public transport (metro, tram, bus, ferry), you’ll need an Istanbulkart, available at kiosks and metro stations. Load it with credit, and you’re good to go.

3. Want the Real Istanbul?

Let’s be honest: guidebooks and popular travel apps only scratch the surface.

If you want to go beyond tourist crowds and experience local life, taste authentic flavors, and understand the city’s spirit, then it’s time to explore with someone who truly knows Istanbul.

That’s where we come in.

👣 At Eternal Wonder Tours, we don’t just offer tours – we craft experiences.

🧭 Whether it’s:

• A local street food tour through backstreets you’d never find on your own,
• A cultural journey into Ottoman and Byzantine heritage,
• Or a private chauffeured city tour designed around your pace and interests –

we help you discover the Istanbul that locals love.

4. A Few Things Every Visitor Should Know

🛬 Airport–City Distance: Around 1 hour to central hotels.

💳 Money: Turkish lira is used almost everywhere. Credit cards are widely accepted, but keep some cash for small shops or local markets.

🚋 Transport Card: Get an Istanbulkart for smooth travel across metro, tram, buses, and ferries.

🍽️ What to Eat: Try different kinds of kebabs, from Adana to Iskender.

🍰 What to Sweeten Your Day: Baklava – flaky, nutty, syrupy heaven.

☕ What to Drink: Don’t leave without sipping a Turkish coffee, çay (tea), or refreshing ayran.

5. Ready to Begin Your Real Journey?

You’ve made it here – now let Istanbul surprise you.

And if you’d like to explore with someone who knows where the true stories hide, we’re here to guide you.

🌐 Discover our full list of tours on www.eternalwondertours.com

From walking tours to culinary adventures, sunset drives to hidden mosques, everything is carefully designed by local experts.

Let’s turn your visit into a memory.

🧭 Contact Eternal Wonder Tours

📍 Website: www.eternalwondertours.com

📞 Phone: +90 535 709 41 45

📲 WhatsApp: +90 551 869 76 12

📧 Email: info@eternalwondertours.com

🔖 TÜRSAB License No: 13299

🏢 Office Address: Molla Gürani Mahallesi, Aksaray Mektebi Sokak No:1/10, 34093 Fatih / İstanbul