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Istanbul Travel Checklist

Istanbul Travel Checklist

Istanbul Turkey Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

Organize your trip with this timeline for a smooth experience.

Pre-Departure Steps

Structured steps leading up to your departure.

1

+ Months Ahead

Passport Validity

Check passport expiration date (6+ months beyond stay). Renew if needed.

Visa Requirements

Research visa needs. Apply for e-Visa via official `e-visa.gov.tr`.

International Flights

Early booking frequently secures better prices and selection.

2

Month Prior

Accommodations

Secure your lodging, especially in high season.

Tours & Experiences

Reserve popular tours (e.g., Bosphorus cruise, Whirling Dervishes show).

Health Consultation

Consult your doctor for vaccinations and prescription refills.

3

Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Verify all flights, hotels, and tours. Print and digitize copies.

Bank Notification

Inform notify your bank and credit card companies of your trip plans to avoid card suspensions.

Home Preparations

Arrange pet sitting, house sitting, or mail holding if applicable. Pack your suitcases, consider travel organizers for effectiveness (Eagle Creek).

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these elements in advance for smooth travel.

Essential Bookings

  • Flights (international and domestic within Turkey).
  • Hotels or other accommodation.
  • High-speed train tickets for inter-city travel (where appropriate).
  • Specific tour times for popular attractions or experiences.

Home Preparation & Readiness

Steps to take at home before your departure.

Home Readiness Checklist

  • Secure your home: Secure all doors and windows, set alarms.
  • Hold mail or arrange for a neighbor to collect it.
  • Arrange for plant care if needed.
  • Ensure all bills are paid or set up for automatic payment.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

History & Culture

  • Read about Turkish history.
  • Explore Turkish culture.
  • Deepen appreciation for places of interest.
  • Learn some basic phrases.

Local Etiquette

  • Become acquainted with local etiquette.
  • Understand social norms.
  • Photography etiquette.
  • Dining customs awareness.

Neighborhood Insights

  • Research specific neighborhoods.
  • Sense of their character.
  • Plan beyond Sultanahmet.
  • Discover unique offerings.

Insurance Reminder

Comprehensive travel insurance for medical emergencies, cancellations, plus lost bags (World Nomads).

Seamless Travel Stages

Streamlined arrival and departure processes facilitate a stress-no-cost journey.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Clear procedures at the airport.

  • 2
    Luggage Retrieval

    Collect luggage from baggage claim.

  • 3
    Istanbulkart Purchase

    Buy and load Istanbulkart at airport automated retail machines for initial public transport needs.

Initial Orientation & Essentials

  • Accommodation Check-in

    Check into your accommodation upon arrival.

  • Neighborhood Walk

    Take a short walk around your immediate neighborhood for familiarity.

  • Getting Money & Water

    Locate the nearest ATM for Lira and a grocery store for bottled water.

Connectivity & Immediate Needs

Local SIM Card

Purchase a local SIM card from kiosks at the airport for data access.

Consider options from key companies like Turkcell, Vodafone, or Türk Telekom.

Currency Exchange

Withdraw Turkish Lira from an ATM at the airport or near your accommodation.

Avoid airport currency exchange counters for better rates.

Initial Purchases

Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival.

Locate a grocery store or kiosk for basic supplies.

Airport Transfer

Utilize pre-booked private transfer, airport buss (Havaist/Havabus), or metro/tram to your hotel.

Departure Planning & Review

Smooth departure elements for a pleasant return journey.

Souvenir & Shipping Insights

  • Plan souvenir shopping to enable sufficient packing time.
  • Understand shipping process, costs, and customs for your home country.
  • Consider purchasing travel-friendly souvenirs.
  • Seek out unique local crafts and goods.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Non-residents can claim a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund on certain purchases.
  • Look for shops displaying "Duty-free" signs (e.g., Global Blue, Planet).
  • Obtain a tax-free form from the shop.
  • At the airport, present goods, passport, and forms to the customs office Before check-in.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Adequate time at the airport results in a relaxed departure.

Airport Arrival

  • Allow a lot of time for the airport transfer.
  • For international flights, try to arrive at least ARRIVE three hours before your plane leaves.
  • Complete airport check-in (online check-in is recommended).
  • Proceed through safety and immigration processes.

Return Trip Final Checks

  • Confirm your return flight details: flight number, departure time, and terminal.
  • Ensure all necessary documents (passport, boarding pass) are easily accessible.
  • Check your baggage allowance to prevent extra luggage charges.
  • Repack luggage if necessary to comply with limits.

Travel Preparedness

A final check of all arrangements creates a smooth journey home.

Thoughtful preparation creates effortless travel.

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