Flight tickets from Durban to Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul! Often referred to as the "city of two continents," Istanbul is a vibrant, vibrant city that straddles Europe and Asia. It's an appealing blend of traditional and modern, a bustling metropolis of 15 million people with a rich history that spans centuries. Whether you're an avid explorer or a first-time visitor, there's something in Istanbul for everyone. From breathtaking views of the Bosporus to the dizzying Grand Bazaar, Istanbul is a city that you won't soon forget. Let's explore this storied city together and discover some of its hidden gems.

Getting to Know Istanbul

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and its commercial, cultural, and historical center. The metropolitan city of Istanbul is home to over 15 million people, making it one of the largest urban centres in the world. The city has a humid continental climate and is mainly in the Eastern European time zone. Turkey has adopted a standard time for the entire country, where all of the clocks are set to the same time (UTC+3). Turkish is the official language in Turkey, though some locals also speak English, Persian and Kurdish. Various other local languages are also spoken here, including Greek and Armenian. The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the national currency in Turkey, and all transactions in Istanbul are conducted in this currency. Turkish coins and notes come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 kurus and 1, 5, 10 and 20 lira. Credit and debit cards are the most frequently used payment methods in Istanbul.

Climate and Weather

The climate of Istanbul is mainly classified as a Mediterranean climate. The summers are warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging around 28–30 C (82–86F) and mostly low humidity levels. Winters are cold and damp, with temperatures that can drop to around 2C (36F). Snowfall is uncommon, but the city does see some precipition from time to time from December to March. The city is also subject to strong winds, known as the "Istanbul Wind". This wind is usually from the northwest and can cause significant disruption to outdoor activities, including restricting ferries between the continents. Overall, Istanbul's climate is mild and typically sunny for most of the year. This makes it attractive to visitors, who tend to come in increasing numbers because of its seasonal appeal.

Touring Istanbul: Airport and Transportation

There are two airports in Istanbul: 1) Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) 2) Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) You can get from Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) to downtown Istanbul by taking the metro or suburban rail line called "Havalimani" (Airport Metro), which costs 6 TL (Turkish Lira). Alternatively, you can take a taxi, which will cost around 35 TL. Yes, you can change money at both airports in Istanbul.

Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Istanbul

1. Istanbul is one of the world's oldest cities, with a rich cultural and historical heritage. It has been the capital of the great Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires.
2. The city is a melting pot of culture, with influences from the Middle East, Europe, and Central Asia. It has numerous archaeological sites and museums, as well as vibrant nightlife and cuisine
3. The iconic Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most popular attractions. Built by the Byzantines during the 6th century, it is now a beautiful mosque and museum, showcasing the city's history and culture