# Catstanbul 2025 - A brief guidance about Istanbul **URL:** \ **Category:** General\ **Created:** [November 10, 2024, 5:39pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908 "2024-11-10T17:39:39Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![VengefulDemon](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/vengefuldemon/32/9211_2.png) [@VengefulDemon](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/VengefulDemon)\ **Post date:** [November 10, 2024, 5:39pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/1 "2024-11-10T17:39:39Z")
**Why visit Istanbul?** For starters, no other city in Turkey has a higher concentration of [main tourist attractions](https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/best-things-to-do-in-istanbul-turkey-travel-blog/). Just in the central Sultanahmet neighborhood alone, you have the Hagia Sophia Mosque, the Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern (scroll down for more details). At the same time, the splendors of the Topkapı Palace and the floral beauty of Gulhane Park are a short stroll away. As with most cosmopolitan places worldwide, [Istanbul is a hub for good food](https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/best-restaurants-istanbul-places-to-eat/), whether you want a glam, fine dining experience or a kebab from a local street stall. The same principle extends to shopping: if you want a touristy memento, you’ll find plenty of places in the Grand Bazaar willing to sell you pottery, clothing, or a magnet, but there are also huge malls that offer a more contemporary look at Turkish fashion. #### A Rich History From the Byzantines to the Ottomans, Istanbul is bursting with reminders of the city’s storied past, both as the last bastion of the Roman Empire and as the capital of the last great caliphate. #### Great Public Transport While not all forms of transport in this unique city are easy to navigate as a tourist, the metro and the tram are both very self-explanatory and make it easy to [get to all the popular tourist areas of town](https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/getting-around-istanbul-transport/) that a visitor might wish to see. #### Private transportation Uber is still not seen as official transportation system due some regulations but there are local equivalents such as BiTaksi, if you find yourself wanting a bit of private transportation. Widely used transportation is still public ones and taxis. #### Affordable Turkey, in general, is not expensive compared to European cities. Of course, everything costs more in Istanbul because it’s such a tourist hotspot and a [desirable place to live](https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/best-places-to-live-in-turkey-guide/), but it’s still affordable in the grand scheme of things. #### Cuisine There’s rarely a time when you can’t get a delicious meal in Istanbul; the streets of Istanbul have so many corner food stalls, restaurants, taverns, and cafes vending [all kinds of local specialties](https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/istanbul-street-food-in-istanbul/) and Turkish coffee to keep you awake throughout the night. #### Nightlife Speaking of the night, Istanbul has [the best selection of clubs and bars in Turkey](https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/where-to-party-in-istanbul-nightlife/). The country’s most populous metropolis has a more liberal outlook than many other areas, making for a buzzier party scene. #### Good Weather Istanbul may not have [summer weather](https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/turkish-summer-in-turkey-weather-where-to-go/) that’s as perfect as the southern coastal cities of Bodrum or Antalya, but it’s still nice and warm from April to October. #### Crowded One of the main reasons not to visit Istanbul is the swarm of locals and visitors. Admittedly, what big city isn’t full of people? But for those looking for a quiet getaway to relax and refresh, this isn’t the place for you. #### Congestion Linked to the sheer volume of people is the congestion. Traffic can be absolutely horrendous during peak times when public transportation also becomes stiflingly packed. #### Language Barrier Turkey is not one of those countries where everyone [speaks English](https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/do-people-speak-english-in-turkey-languages/). Of course, this being Istanbul, there is a higher proportion of English speakers than elsewhere in the country, but be prepared to muddle along with hand gestures at local stalls. #### Taxi Sometimes some taxi drivers might fiddle with the meter to give incorrect payment info. It is always better to know the distance to your destination , make an approximate calculation and speak with driver or make bargain upfront so you don’t find yourself in an unnecessary more payment situation. In addition since it is very crowded city it might take long time to find an empty taxi in istanbul too. #### Pickpocketing Istanbul is seen as safe place, millions of tourists visit every year. however, just like in all countries, it would be best if you still be cautious and not to be away from your purse , phone or wallet especially in crowded popular visiting places. \*\ ***Last Note** \*\* This article has been shared for general information. Some costs which have been mentioned in external links might be different due time difference and inflation. To all great cats that are planning to come to Catstanbul i wish the greatest pleasure with their visits 🥳❤️‍🔥 ---
**Author:** ![lochie2001](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/lochie2001/32/3092_2.png) [@lochie2001](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/lochie2001)\ **Post date:** [November 10, 2024, 7:10pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/2 "2024-11-10T19:10:42Z")
This is great to know! Very informative. I’d defs love to try out the food! I’ve heard it’s amazing ---
**Author:** ![Jerry\_Jup](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/jerry_jup/32/3727_2.png) [@Jerry\_Jup](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/Jerry_Jup)\ **Post date:** [November 10, 2024, 8:17pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/3 "2024-11-10T20:17:16Z")
Now I wanted to eat dener with ayran, why are you doing this to me? 😋 Turks are very hospitable people. I will be glad to visit Istanbul ---
**Author:** ![VengefulDemon](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/vengefuldemon/32/9211_2.png) [@VengefulDemon](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/VengefulDemon)\ **Post date:** [November 10, 2024, 8:18pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/4 "2024-11-10T20:18:49Z")
It is almost midnight in here but your comment also made me want to eat doner-ayran even at this hour 😃 ---
**Author:** ![c2yptic](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/c2yptic/32/1911_2.png) [@c2yptic](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/c2yptic)\ **Post date:** [November 10, 2024, 8:31pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/5 "2024-11-10T20:31:43Z")
Great post, informative 🙂 I usually use UBER when using taxi in Istanbul btw! ---
**Author:** ![VengefulDemon](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/vengefuldemon/32/9211_2.png) [@VengefulDemon](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/VengefulDemon)\ **Post date:** [November 10, 2024, 8:37pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/6 "2024-11-10T20:37:46Z")
It is great to know that you visited Istanbul, an experienced cat, i hope you are happy with your experiences 🥳 ---
**Author:** ![Mbolorman](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/mbolorman/32/4735_2.png) [@Mbolorman](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/Mbolorman)\ **Post date:** [November 10, 2024, 9:17pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/7 "2024-11-10T21:17:57Z")
Very informative. Thanks. ---
**Author:** ![xianxlb](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/xianxlb/32/4523_2.png) [@xianxlb](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/xianxlb)\ **Post date:** [November 11, 2024, 3:13am UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/8 "2024-11-11T03:13:14Z")
great info, making us all excited now!! ---
**Author:** ![iamme](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/iamme/32/4418_2.png) [@iamme](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/iamme)\ **Post date:** [November 11, 2024, 12:22pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/9 "2024-11-11T12:22:54Z")
Are we allowed to change the name from Istanbul to Catstsnbul after the event 😅😅 ---
**Author:** ![iamme](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/iamme/32/4418_2.png) [@iamme](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/iamme)\ **Post date:** [November 11, 2024, 12:24pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/10 "2024-11-11T12:24:45Z")
If I will be graced to attend this event This will be my first time out of my country So I want to ask How do they manage currency exchange over there To make it easy for visitors? ---
**Author:** ![VengefulDemon](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/vengefuldemon/32/9211_2.png) [@VengefulDemon](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/VengefulDemon)\ **Post date:** [November 11, 2024, 12:48pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/11 "2024-11-11T12:48:46Z")
You know this means a waaar ! 😈 😃 ---
**Author:** ![RJMG](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/rjmg/32/7721_2.png) [@RJMG](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/RJMG)\ **Post date:** [November 11, 2024, 12:50pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/12 "2024-11-11T12:50:08Z")
I will do my best to go, I am from Spain. If someone lives near me we can go together! Thank you very much for the warning and advice friend. 💚 ---
**Author:** ![VengefulDemon](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/vengefuldemon/32/9211_2.png) [@VengefulDemon](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/VengefulDemon)\ **Post date:** [November 11, 2024, 12:52pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/13 "2024-11-11T12:52:57Z")
The best thing is always come with an enough amount of currency meaning if you are able to exchange do it before you visit. And in case of need there are too many currency exchange places in almost everywhere, in addition if it is widely used currencies such as dollar euro sterlin etc even the local markets , shops , mall etc can do this, just make sure to know the approximate value of the exchange and decide for yourself ---
**Author:** ![iamme](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/iamme/32/4418_2.png) [@iamme](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/iamme)\ **Post date:** [November 11, 2024, 1:13pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/14 "2024-11-11T13:13:24Z")
😅😅😅 If they wont allow us What about giving a cat to all of us ? ---
**Author:** ![iamme](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/iamme/32/4418_2.png) [@iamme](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/iamme)\ **Post date:** [November 11, 2024, 1:14pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/15 "2024-11-11T13:14:31Z")
Okay thank you The whole Jupiverse is coming Will they allow us to spend jup for some time we will spend over there 😅😅😅 ---
**Author:** ![lqshya](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/lqshya/32/5909_2.png) [@lqshya](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/lqshya)\ **Post date:** [November 11, 2024, 9:03pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/16 "2024-11-11T21:03:34Z")
please fund my travel thanks! ---
**Author:** ![bro](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/bro/32/6142_2.png) [@bro](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/bro)\ **Post date:** [November 11, 2024, 10:03pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/17 "2024-11-11T22:03:42Z")
always loved to travel, please fund 😍 ---
**Author:** ![macjcian](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/macjcian/32/6590_2.png) [@macjcian](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/macjcian)\ **Post date:** [November 12, 2024, 2:52pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/18 "2024-11-12T14:52:52Z")
More reason to create a passport boy 😂🕶 ---
**Author:** ![Aremia\_Vincenzo](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/aremia_vincenzo/32/4812_2.png) [@Aremia\_Vincenzo](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/Aremia_Vincenzo)\ **Post date:** [November 12, 2024, 2:53pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/19 "2024-11-12T14:53:10Z")
Thanks for the heads up Really informative ---
**Author:** ![JAO](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex003/user_avatar/discuss.jup.ag/jao/32/8025_2.png) [@JAO](https://discuss.jup.ag/u/JAO)\ **Post date:** [November 12, 2024, 2:53pm UTC](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908/20 "2024-11-12T14:53:55Z")
Thanks for this bud! [Next page](https://discuss.jup.ag/t/catstanbul-2025-a-brief-guidance-about-istanbul/26908.md?page=2)