Flight tickets from Bloemfontein to Istanbul

Istanbul is a city full of history, culture, and beauty. It is one of the oldest and most influential metropolitan cities in the world, and its rich culture has captivated millions of visitors from all over the world. Istanbul is a melting pot of religions, cultures, and traditions, making it a place like no other. With its mix of stunning historical sites, bustling bazaars, incredible nightlife, and breathtaking natural beauty, Istanbul is an unforgettable destination. Come and explore the countless attractions and activities that make this city so special.

Getting to Know Istanbul

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and home to a population of over 15 million people. It is the only city in the world located on two continents, being divided by the Bosphorus Strait. The majority of Istanbul's population follows the Eastern European Time Zone and Daylight Savings Time. The official language of Istanbul is Turkish however many of the city's inhabitants are multilingual and speak a variety of languages including English, German, French, and Arabic. Turkish Lira (TRY) is the official currency of Istanbul. The most widely accepted credit cards are Visa, MasterCard and American Express. ATMs are available at virtually any corner of the city, making it easy to access cash in any currency. Visitors to Istanbul will find themselves immersed in an exciting mix of cultures. Istanbul offers beautiful centuries-old architecture, a thriving nightlife and endless cultural activities to explore.

Climate and Weather

Istanbul is situated on the Mediterranean Sea, which contributes to its mild Mediterranean climate. Summers in Istanbul are hot, with temperatures often reaching above 30°C (86°F). Winters in Istanbul are characterized by cold, wet weather, with temperatures ranging between 0–10°C (32–50°F). The city experiences little to no snowfall and temperatures rarely fall below freezing during winter months. During the spring and autumn months, Istanbul experiences cooler weather with temperatures ranging from 5–20°C (41–68°F), making it the most comfortable time of year to visit the city. Istanbul does get its fair share of rainfall, with annual totals averaging at about 545 millimeters (21 inches). Overall, Istanbul is an ideal place to visit year-round. No matter the time of year, there's always something to do.

Touring Istanbul: Airport and Transportation

There are two international airports in Istanbul: Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). The quickest and most convenient way to get from Istanbul Atatürk Airport to downtown is by taxi. The fare is around 35-40 Turkish lira (approximately 6-7 USD) for a 30 minute journey. You can exchange money at Istanbul Atatürk Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, at banks and currency exchange offices. Exchange rates and services may vary, so be sure to compare before making a transaction.

Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Istanbul

1. Istanbul has been an important city for thousands of years, with a long and rich history stretching back to the time of the Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans
2. Istanbul is considered a cultural crossroads in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, bringing together the influences of many different civilizations
3. Tourists can explore traditional Turkish culture by visiting historic monuments such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, or streets such as the Grand Bazaar