What is the best way to get around Istanbul to see the sights? Bus, taxi, private car?? Any recommendations would be great! Thanks
Pat
Posted by
Washington DC Region, USA
7054 posts
http://www.istanbultrails.com/2009/08/getting-around-in-istanbul-by-metro-tram-and-funicular/ Here you go...I never used a taxi; the tram and ferries and funicular were easy, cheap, and frequent. I also used my feet - watch out, parts of Istanbul (e.g. Galata tower and Beyoglu) are very steep, as in "San Francisco steep"
Posted by
Bellevue, WA, USA
811 posts
the old town area is full of sites you will likely walk a lot, very nice walking around. if you walk to the tram line then you can take it to the dolmabache palace and then tram back a little bit to take the escalator up to taksim square (hope by the time you arrive it's quite down). I walked to just about anywhere didn't feel too far, and did my daily evening stroll from old town across bridge to taksim square. walk from dolmabache palace to taksim was a little bit long, definitely use the tram/escalator.
Posted by
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, USA
62 posts
I suggest forgetting all about the idea of using a car. Gasoline prices in Turkey are among the highest in the world, traffic congestion in Istanbul is legendary and car parking is expensive, when you can find it. Taxis will work but they are subject to the same traffic issues as a car and while not as costly as here in the States; they are not really cheap either. The subway and the tram system are your best bets...And don't forget your own two feet!
Posted by
Boscombe, Dorset, UK
964 posts
I agree with Mark, forget the car!
The tram is very easy to use- but do be aware that there are pickpockets on public transport.