Flight tickets from Upington to Istanbul

Istanbul is a city of many wonders. It is a vibrant city with a rich history spanning thousands of years. It is a unique city with its many layers of culture, traditions, and architecture that offer something for everyone to explore. From its bustling streets to its calming bays, Istanbul is truly a city full of life and adventure. No other city in the world can combine the mystique of its ancient past and the energy of its lively present like Istanbul. From the Hagia Sophia to the exotic beauty of the Blue Mosque, Istanbul is truly a city of magic and beauty. Whether you’re looking to discover its historic sites or simply take in its breathtaking views, Istanbul has something for everyone.

Getting to Know Istanbul

Istanbul is the most populous city in Turkey, situated in the northwest of the country. It has an estimated population of 15 million people, making it the world's fifth most populous city. The time zone of Istanbul is Eastern European Time (EET) and it is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). The primary language spoken in Istanbul is Turkish, although English is also widely spoken. Alongside these two languages, there are also several different regional dialects spoken in the city. The currency of Istanbul is the Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs are easily accessible around the city, providing a convenient way to obtain currency and travellers’ cheques.

Climate and Weather

Istanbul is the most populated city in Turkey and is located in the northwest of the country on the Bosporus Strait. The Bosporus Strait divides the city into European and Asian sections. The climate of Istanbul is a temperate, Mediterranean climate with hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters. In the summer, temperatures in Istanbul can reach as high as 36°C (97°F) with high levels of humidity. Thunderstorms are common during the hot summer months, lasting into early autumn. Winters in Istanbul are mild and wet, with temperatures dropping to -2°C (28°F) during the coldest months. Snow and sleet are possible, although the likelihood of experiencing these conditions is low. Overall, the city has an average of 210-240 days of sunshine throughout the year. Spring and autumn tend to be mild and pleasant, making them the best times to visit the city.

Touring Istanbul: Airport and Transportation

There are two airports in Istanbul. The main airport is Ataturk Istanbul Airport (IST), the other is Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). To get from Ataturk Airport to downtown Istanbul, you can take the HAVATAŞ bus which starts from the International Terminal’s Gate C and end at Taksim Square. The cost is around 8 TL (Turkish Lira). Alternately, you can take the metro which runs between the airport and the city centre. The cost is around 4 TL. You can exchange money at Istanbul Airport at banks, ATMs, currency exchange kiosks, and exchange offices.

Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Istanbul

1. Istanbul seamlessly blends its rich historic past with a vibrant, modern culture. From the iconic Hagia Sophia to bustling modern streets, there is something for everyone in the diverse city
2. Istanbul's robust cultural heritage can be experienced through its vast selection of museums, monuments, and heritage sites. Sultanahmet district is home to some of Istanbul's most beloved attractions including the Grand Bazaar
3. Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine and the best of Istanbul's nightlife from a range of local restaurants, bars, and clubs. The shopping scene is equally impressive with its range of boutiques, traditional shops and markets