Istanbul travel notebook · Travelling from Australia
First time
in Istanbul?
We’re a group of friends who explore Istanbul on foot and by ferry. Our guide helps you find a neighbourhood for your first night, a local place to eat and a walk on either side of the Bosphorus.
Istanbul / Eminönü from Galata Bridge
Travelling from Australia
Ease into Istanbul after the long haul
If your trip from Australia includes a stopover, check the local date and time on the last leg before booking your accommodation. Give yourself an easy first evening and choose a spot with somewhere to eat within a short walk.
- Pick a neighbourhood for night oneSave the name of the closest tram or metro stop alongside your accommodation address.
- Across the Bosphorus when you’re readySave the ferry for a day with time to explore near the pier on the other shore.
- A low-key first mealLook for a sit-down meal or somewhere to grab a bite near where you’re staying.
01 / Where first?
Historic places to visit in Istanbul
02 / Along for the ride
Getting around Istanbul by ferry, metro and tram
Make the Bosphorus crossing part of your day. Check your departure pier and the return service before heading to Kadıköy, and pick metro or tram connections to suit your route.
On get-togethers when we take the club minibus, the ride is free. We decide together where to stop.
03 / City notebook
Explore both sides of Istanbul
Pick a base close to your first morning’s plans. Stay in Sultanahmet for the historic sights, in Karaköy for the walk up to Galata, or in Kadıköy for the market and Moda waterfront.
Istanbul walks
Routes through Kadıköy and Moda, Karaköy and Galata, or Üsküdar and Salacak.
Where to stay in Istanbul
Compare Sultanahmet, Karaköy and Kadıköy by walking distance and transport.
Where and what to eat
Find neighbourhood bakeries, Turkish breakfasts and lunch spots.
Historic places
Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower and the Land Walls.
Istanbul shopping tips
What to check when comparing materials, prices and packing at the bazaar.
Dental care guides
Independent reading on written treatment plans, implants and follow-up.
Hair transplant guides
Questions about methods, who carries out the procedure and aftercare.
City notebook
Planning dental care or a hair transplant in Istanbul from Australia?
It’s a long way from Australia, so we’d ask which visits the plan involves and what follow-up could happen at home. Once you’ve got that picture, put the itemised estimate next to the cost of any extra flights.
04 / The club on camera
Come out with us for a day.
Did we miss the ferry? Who laughed loudest at lunch? Find a seat at the table in our club videos.
Two shores / One club