Istanbul visitor guide
Practical essentials for visiting Istanbul, Turkey. Every fact links to an official or government source.
Some areas of Turkey are under official travel warnings. Check the latest advice before you go. UK FCDO — warnings ↗
Emergency numbers
- Ambulance, fire, police 112
Source: UK FCDO — getting help ↗
Getting around
Airports
Distances are straight-line from the city centre; road distance is longer.
Weather by month
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Humidity | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 9°C | 4°C | 79% | 106 mm |
| Feb | 10°C | 4°C | 79% | 73 mm |
| Mar | 13°C | 6°C | 77% | 74 mm |
| Apr | 17°C | 9°C | 75% | 53 mm |
| May | 21°C | 13°C | 75% | 60 mm |
| Jun | 27°C | 18°C | 73% | 48 mm |
| Jul | 29°C | 21°C | 70% | 30 mm |
| Aug | 29°C | 21°C | 71% | 20 mm |
| Sep | 26°C | 18°C | 72% | 43 mm |
| Oct | 20°C | 14°C | 77% | 58 mm |
| Nov | 16°C | 10°C | 78% | 85 mm |
| Dec | 12°C | 6°C | 80% | 96 mm |
comfortable (avg high 32°C or below) · very hot (avg high 38°C or above)
Etiquette & dress
- Dress modestly when visiting a mosque or religious shrine.
- Always carry photo ID (passport or residence permit); ID checks happen in busy areas of Istanbul.
- Smoking is banned on public transport and in indoor public places.
- During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public in daytime.
Source: UK FCDO — safety and security (laws and cultural differences) ↗
Visas & entry
Entry rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check the official portals before you book.
Currency & tipping
Turkish lira (TRY). The rate floats against the US dollar; prices on Wherepicks are shown in US dollars.
Source: Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye ↗
No official tipping guidance; rounding up or about 10% for good service is common but optional.
Plan your time in Istanbul
Facts checked Oct 30, 2026. Always confirm with the official source before you travel.