Saving Tips
Istanbul is already affordable — with these tips, it becomes even cheaper:
- Istanbulkart: The rechargeable public transport card saves on every trip. Metro, bus, ferry, tram — all with one card. Price per ride: about €0.50 instead of €1 for a single ticket.
- Public Ferries: The Vapur ferries (İDO/Şehir Hatları) between Europe and Asia cost only €0.50 with Istanbulkart — the same view as an expensive Bosphorus cruise.
- Mosques are free: Blue Mosque, Süleymaniye, New Mosque, Rüstem Pasha Mosque — all free. Only the Hagia Sophia charges an entrance fee (as a mosque for non-worshippers).
- Museum Pass Istanbul: Includes Topkapı Palace, Harem, Archaeological Museum, Chora Church, and more. Worth it from 3 museums. 5-day pass about €60.
- Çay instead of coffee: A glass of Çay costs €0.30–€0.50 and is offered everywhere — even in shops while shopping. Turkish coffee is significantly more expensive (but worth it as an experience).
- Supermarket & Bakery: Migros, BİM, and A101 are Istanbul's affordable supermarkets. Fresh bread (Ekmek) is available at the Fırın (bakery) for under €0.50.
- Lokantas: Self-service restaurants with freshly cooked home-style food: soup, rice, meat, vegetables — a complete menu for €3–€5. The best way to eat like a local in Istanbul.
- Bargaining in the Bazaar: Bargaining is done in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar. Rule of thumb: start at half the price, settle at 60–70%. Do not bargain in restaurants or supermarkets.