When to Visit - Arts and Events

This is a city of domes and mosques with winding, narrow streets lined with stalls and markets; and although no longer Turkey's capital, it is still very much the cultural, commercial and tourist centre of the country. Despite its ancient heritage, and sometimes slightly tired exterior, the city has a modern, vibrant life mixed with an intriguing combination of east and west.

Istanbul Dining

Istanbul has a wide range of restaurants, many of which serve international as well as Turkish cuisine. This local food is a fabulous mixture of Shish kebab (skewer-grilled lamb), fresh fish and sweet, often honey soaked, desserts such as baclavar. One of the highlights of eating in Turkey is being able to sit right next to the grill and watch your food being prepared. Turkish coffee (kahve) is worth a try, but you must tell the waiter how sweet you would like it, when you order, as sugar is added while it is made.

Istanbul Tipping Advice

Tipping in the more expensive restaurants tends to be expected, with around 5 to 10 percent being the usual amount. Taxi drivers do not have to be tipped but it is local practice to round up the fare to the nearest 100 TRL. Hotel porters will expect a tip of around 2 or 3 percent of the cost of your room.