Living in Istanbul as an Expat or Digital Nomad

Istanbul is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expats and digital nomads. The city offers a good quality of life, excellent health care, great food, an easy residency process, lots of history and culture, and a relatively low cost of living. There are some drawbacks to consider. There can be a language barrier and the city is pretty crowded.

This guide outlines everything you need to know about living in Istanbul as an expat or digital nomad. We’ll cover the cost of living, visas, the best neighborhoods, finding an apartment, safety, healthcare, and more. I’ll also list some pros and cons of living in Istanbul.

Istanbul is one of my favorite digital nomad destinations. It’s really conveniently located between Europe and Asia and the food is world-class. In this guide, I’ll share my experience. Hopefully, this guide makes your move a little bit smoother.

Table of Contents

• Cost of living
• Visas
• The best neighborhoods in Istanbul
• Finding an apartment
• Transportation around the city
• Cafes and co-working spaces
• The language barrier
• Working in Istanbul
• Pros and cons of living in Istanbul
• Groceries and Restaurants
• Healthcare and insurance
• Money and banking
• Education
• Is Istanbul safe?
• Getting to Istanbul
• Things to do

Quick Facts About Istanbul

• Population- 15.5 million
• Language- Turkish
• Climate- Temperate
• Geography- The city straddles the Bosphorus Straight, between Europe and Asia
• Currency- The Turkish Lira (TL). Currently 1 USD=26 lira
• Time zone- GMT+3
• Drives on the right side of the road
• Electricity- 220V 50 Hz.
• International Dialing Code- +90
• Main Religion- Islam
• Monthly cost of living for an expat or digital nomad- $1200-$2000 per month

A Bit of Info About Istanbul

Istanbul is located on the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia. The city has a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. It has over 2,000 years of history. Istanbul was once the capital city of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. Today, Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city.

Istanbul is an excellent destination for expats and digital nomads from all over the world. It’s conveniently located between Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and most of Asia. It is a major hub city for air travel. There is loads to see and do. Some famous landmarks include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Turkey also has some great food. The weather is also pretty mild year-round. It’s not the cheapest expat destination but it does offer a good value. Turkey is a fairly conservative country. The majority of the population is Muslim.

Cost of Living in Istanbul

(In this guide, I will list prices in US dollars because the Turkish Lira is currently experiencing high inflation.)

On average, an individual can expect to spend around $1500-$2000 per month to live in Istanbul. A couple sharing expenses should expect to spend between $1,800 and $2500 per month living in Istanbul.

This budget includes all living expenses including rent, utilities, transportation, food, entertainment, health insurance, etc. On this budget, you’ll live a comfortable middle-class lifestyle. You could rent an apartment in a decent neighborhood, eat out a few times per week, and go out on the weekends. To stick to this budget, you would need to cook most of your own meals and use public transportation most of the time.

If you’re on a tight budget, it’s possible to live in Istanbul for around $1000-$1200 per month. You could survive on as little as $800 if you had to. Millions of locals do it. To stick to this budget, you would have to have roommates, only use public transport, and cook all of your own meals.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious lifestyle or if you’re moving with a family, expect to spend $3,000-$5,000 per month. On this budget, you could rent a luxury apartment or a larger 2-3 bedroom home, eat out daily in nice restaurants, use private transport, and go out frequently.

Before I moved to Istanbul, I was reading about how expensive the city had become. When I arrived, I found it to be surprisingly affordable. I rented a furnished apartment in a good location in Beyoğlu for around $600 per month. On average, I spend around $1400 per month. I’m not being particularly frugal. Personally, I think Istanbul is one of the best value digital nomad destinations. The quality of life you get for your money is very high.

Rent in Istanbul

On average, expect to pay $400-$700 per month for a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a decent neighborhood in Istanbul, such as Kadıköy on the Asian side or Şişli on the European side. Rent prices are around 20-30% lower on the Asian side than the European side. Most apartments come with hot water, heating, a stove, and maybe air conditioning. Some come with basic furnishings. If you live in an expensive city, moving to Istanbul is a great way to save money on rent.

If you’re on a tighter budget, you can find rents as low as $250-$300 per month in areas like Esenyurt or Pendik. These areas are further from central Istanbul. You will also have to furnish the apartment yourself.

If you want to live in a luxury apartment or if you need a larger 2-4 bedroom home, expect to spend $1500-$3000 per month on rent. For this price, you can live in a high-end area such as Bebek, Nişantaşı, or Etiler on the European side. These properties will come with high-end amenities such as a gym and pool as well as beautiful views of the Bosphorus. They will also be located near upscale shopping and dining.

If you’re only planning on staying in Istanbul for 1-3 months, consider renting a furnished apartment on Airbnb. This is a great option for short stays. You can rent a studio or one-bedroom apartment for around $600-$800 per month. This is what I did when I first arrived in Istanbul.

If you’re considering a permanent move, buying property is also an option. Foreigners are allowed to buy real estate in Turkey. It’s possible to buy a decent apartment in Istanbul for $150,000-$200,000.

Utilities

For a small apartment, expect to spend $50-$100 per month on utilities. This includes electricity, water, and gas. Electricity costs vary quite a bit based on usage. An average monthly bill for a small apartment will be $20-$30. Water will cost around $10 per month. Gas, used for cooking and sometimes heating averages around $20 per month.

Heating and air conditioning can add a significant amount to your utility bills. Istanbul can get pretty cold in the winter and hot in the summer. A small apartment might cost $100-$150 per month to heat during the coldest winter months. It will cost around the same during the summer if you use a lot of air conditioning.

Home internet might cost $30-$40 per month. A basic cell phone plan might cost $20-$30 per month.

Food Cost in Istanbul

An individual should expect to spend $200-$400 per month on food while living in Istanbul. This includes groceries, an occasional meal out, and some street food. Your exact food cost will depend on the types of food you eat and how often you like to eat out. If you like to eat out daily, you may have to budget $500 or more for food. If you cook all of your own meals and you eat cheap foods, you could eat for $150 per month.

Groceries in Istanbul are pretty affordable. Expect to spend around $150 to $200 per month on groceries. For a couple, expect to spend around $300-$400 per month. Staple items like bread costs around $1. A dozen eggs cost around $2. A liter of milk costs approximately $1. Rice costs around $1 for a kilo bag. A kilo of ground beef costs around $6.50. A kilo of chicken thighs costs around $4. A bunch of bananas costs around $2. You buy a bag of tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, or cucumbers for less than $1. For the best prices, shop at BIM, SOK, and Mopas. Carrefour and Migras tend to be a little more expensive, in my experience.

Restaurants are pretty affordable. A meal at a kebab shop costs around $4-$8. Istanbul also has some great street food. You can get a nice snack for $2-$30. At a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay between $10-$20 per person. Restaurants can be surprisingly affordable. I went out to eat with a friend. We both ordered fish, salad, and soup. The bill came to only $26. I was shocked at how cheap it was.

Transportation Cost in Istanbul

If you walk, use public transportation, and take the occasional taxi or Uber, you might spend $40-$60 per month on transportation. Exactly how much you’ll spend depends on where you live, how often you have to commute, and your personal preferences.

A single ticket on Istanbul’s public transport, including the metro, tram, buses, and ferries, costs about $0.60. In Istanbul, the public transport systems are all integrated. They all use the same card called the Istanbulkart. The card costs around $1.50. You can reload it with cash at kiosks near transport stations.

Taxis and rideshares are also pretty affordable in Istanbul. A short taxi ride may cost between $5-$8. Longer trips across the city may cost $10-$20.

You don’t always have to spend money to get around. Istanbul is a walkable city. Pretty much every neighborhood has shops, cafes, and restaurants that you can walk to.

Most expats choose not to own a vehicle. Cars are pretty expensive because import taxes are high. Istanbul also has great public transport so owning a car isn’t really necessary. It is an option if you choose.

Entertainment Cost in Istanbul

A good budget for entertainment is anywhere from $100-$200 per month. There are lots of cheap or free things to do. Entertainment can get pretty expensive if you like to go out drinking often.

The average cost of a local beer is $3-$5. A cocktail costs $6-$12, depending on the type of bar you go to. Entrance to the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque is free. Entrance to the Topkapi Palace costs around $20. Istanbul also offers a “Museum Pass” that costs $70. This gives you access to around 10 museums and historic sites.

If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of free things to do in Istanbul. You can take a walk along the waterfront. There are many city parks that you can visit for free. For more ideas, check out my list of 30 free things to do while traveling.

Visas for Turkey

It’s pretty easy to stay in Turkey long term. Turkey offers several visa options that allow foreigners to legally live in the country.

Most digital nomads enter Turkey on a tourist visa. Many nationalities can enter Turkey without a visa for up to 90 days in a 180 day period. Currently, travelers from the U.S. and Canada do not need a visa to go to Turkey. Some nationalities need to arrange a visa in advance. Turkey offers an e-visa that is easy to obtain online. The e-visa is valid for 180 days and allows for a maximum stay of 90 days. The e-visa costs around $50 but the price can vary depending on your nationality. You can apply for the e-visa here.

If you want to stay in Istanbul longer than 3 months, you’ll need to apply for a residency permit. The most common type of residency permit for expats and digital nomads is the short-term residence permit. Currently, Turkey does not offer a digital nomad visa.

Interestingly, Turkey offers short-term residency for the purpose of tourism. You can also apply for residency for work, study, purchasing real estate, opening a business, medical treatment, or marriage to a Turkish citizen.

It’s possible to start the application process online through the website of the Directorate General of Migration Management, but it must be completed in person in Turkey. You can read more about the short-term residency permit here on Turkey’s government website.

To complete this application, you’ll need your passport, proof of sufficient funds, a local address in Turkey, health insurance, and four biometric photos. You will also have to have your documents translated into Turkish. For a digital nomad, proof of a remote job or income from an online business may also be required.

The short-term residence permit is usually granted for one year but it can be extended. The rules can change so it’s best to check the requirements on the official website or consult a local immigration attorney if you need help. The process for obtaining residency in Turkey is pretty straightforward so usually, an attorney isn’t required.

For more info on info on the residency permit, check out this guide.

The Best Neighborhoods in Istanbul for Foreigners

Istanbul is divided into two main sections, the Asian side and the European side. The city is divided by the Bosphorus. There are great neighborhoods on both sides of the city. A few of the best neighborhoods for expats and digital nomads include:

1. Beyoğlu- This is a lively and touristy neighborhood on the European side. Beyoğlu is home to the famous Istiklal Street. This is a busy pedestrian street that is filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. This neighborhood is also home to the famous Galata Tower. Public transport is good. I stayed here for most of my time in Istanbul and really enjoyed it. It’s a great location but somewhat expensive.
2. Karaköy- This is an up-and-coming area located near the waterfront. Karaköy is popular for its cafes, art galleries, and modern restaurants. It’s a trendy neighborhood.
3. Kadıköy- This neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul is becoming increasingly popular among expats and digital nomads. Kadıköy has busy markets, lots of shops, and some great restaurants. it’s a pretty laid back area.
4. Beşiktaş- This area is home to several consulates and lots of businesses. Beşiktaş has a nice mix of residential and commercial areas. It’s popular among younger people for its nightlife and wide variety of cafes and restaurants.
5. Cihangir- This is a kind of bohemian neighborhood. Cihangir attracts artsy types. The area has colorful street art, antique shops, and lots of cafes that are perfect for working remotely.
6. Moda- Located on the Asian side, Moda is a quiet residential area with several beautiful parks, trendy cafes, and a beautiful seafront boardwalk. It’s perfect for those looking for a quieter lifestyle.
7. Üsküdar- Located on the Asian side, Üsküdar offers a nice traditional atmosphere. There are historical mosques and beautiful views of the Istanbul skyline. The area is really relaxed. It’s a good choice if you want to avoid crowds in the city.
8. Nişantaşı- This is one of Istanbul’s highest-end neighborhoods. Nişantaşı is known for its luxury shopping and high-end homes. You’ll find designer stores, trendy cafes, and fancy restaurants. It’s a good choice for those who want to live a more luxurious lifestyle. This is an expensive area.
9. Sarıyer- This neighborhood is located at the northern end of the European side. Sarıyer is a green and laid-back district by the Bosphorus. It’s great for those who want to live in a quiet area near nature while still being within easy reach of the city.
10. Bebek- This is an upscale neighborhood on the European side. It is known for its beautiful waterfront, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. Bebek is lively and beautiful. It’s one of the more popular neighborhoods for expats.
11. Fatih- Fatih is the heart of old Istanbul. It’s home to many of Istanbul’s major tourist attractions, including the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque, and the Hagia Sophia. If you’re interested in history and Turkish culture, Fatih is a great option. It does get pretty crowded.

Finding an Apartment in Istanbul

The easiest way to find an apartment in Istanbul is online. Websites such as Sahibinden, Zingat, and Hürriyet Emlak are popular places for landlords to list rental properties.

Joining expat and digital nomad groups on Facebook is also a good way to find a place to live. Members sometimes post apartments for rent. Facebook groups are also great places. to look for a roommate. You could also make a post, introduce yourself, and ask for recommendations.

Another option is to walk around your favorite neighborhoods and look for ‘for rent’ signs. Call the number and rent directly from the owner. To do this, you may need a Turkish friend to call for you to help with the language barrier.

Most long-term rentals in Istanbul come unfurnished. You’ll have to buy your own furniture and appliances. You can buy second-hand furnishings pretty cheaply on websites like LetGo and at local bazaars. Furnished apartments are available but they are quite a bit more expensive.

If you’re planning to stay for 2-3 months or less, staying in an Airbnb is a good option. These properties come fully furnished. All utilities are included. You can often negotiate a deal for a long-term stay directly with the host. This is the most convenient option but you will pay a little more.

Rental Agreements in Turkey

Renting an apartment in Turkey is pretty straightforward, but there are a few things to be aware of. To rent an apartment long-term in Turkey, you will usually need a residency permit. This shows the landlord that you are legally allowed to stay in Turkey for the duration of the lease.

When signing a lease, it’s standard to pay the first and last month’s rent upfront, as well as a security deposit. The security deposit is usually equal to one month’s rent. This deposit is returned at the end of your lease as long as the property isn’t damaged. Rental agreements are usually for one year but can be extended. This is all pretty standard.

Before signing a lease, you’ll want to make sure everything is outlined in the rental contract including the cost of rent, the lease period, and the notice period for leaving or renewing the lease. The agreement will probably be in Turkish so you may need a translator to help you out.

Buying Property in Turkey

If you are planning on staying in Istanbul long-term, buying real estate can be a great investment. Foreigners are allowed to buy real estate in Turkey. In recent years, Turkey has made it easier for for foreigners to buy real estate. There are real estate agents that cater to foreigners.

A major advantage of buying property in Turkey is that it makes obtaining a residency permit easier. If you purchase a property that is worth $250,000 or more, you are immediately eligible to apply for a short-term residence permit. This can lead to long-term residency.

The process of purchasing property in Turkey is somewhat complex. The regulations can vary depending on your nationality and the type of property. You will need a real estate attorney.

Transportation: How to Get Around Istanbul

Istanbul is easy to get around. There is an excellent public transport network There are also taxis and rideshare services available. Most neighborhoods are walkable.

Public Transportation in Istanbul

Istanbul’s public transportation network consists of a metro system, trams, buses, and ferries. All of the systems are integrated. You can use the same ticket for all types of public transport. The public transportation system is affordable, easy to use, and efficient. It also covers pretty much the entire city.

The Istanbul Metro has multiple lines. It connects all of the major districts and attractions. It operates from 6 am until midnight. The trains can get crowded but they mostly run on time.

The trams are a great way to get around the historic areas. The T1 tram line is particularly useful for sightseeing because it connects Sultanahmet, the Grand Bazaar, and Galata Bridge.

Istanbul’s bus network is incredibly extensive. There are hundreds of routes that reach every corner of the city. The bus goes places the metro and tram can’t. The buses can be slow due to traffic.

Istanbul also has regular ferry services across the Bosphorus. They connect the Asian and European sides of the city. They also offer some spectacular views.

To use the public transportation system, you’ll need an Istanbulkart. This is a rechargeable card. It is a universal ticket that works on all of the public transport systems. You can get an Istanbulkart from automated machines at any metro station or major transit station. It costs just a couple of dollars. You can top it up at the same machines with cash.

Walking

You don’t always have to pay for transportation. Istanbul is a very walkable city. Most neighborhoods are set up for walking. Sultanahmet, Galata, Taksim, and Kadıköy are all easy to get around on foot. Every neighborhood has cafés, markets, restaurants, and grocery stores. Istanbul is also a beautiful place to walk around. The city is full of pedestrian-friendly areas with wide sidewalks. Istanbul is a hilly city so you will get a workout.

Taxis and Rideshare

Taxis are commonly available throughout the. You can usually flag one down within a few minutes. They are convenient for shorter trips and when public transport isn’t an option, such as late at night. Some drivers will try to overcharge you. To avoid this, always make sure they use the meter. If a driver refuses, find a different taxi.

Rideshare services are also available in Istanbul. The most commonly used app is BiTaksi. This is basically Turkey’s version of Uber and Lyft. The app is available in English. Uber also operates in Istanbul. It’s a bit more expensive than BiTaksi.

Remember that traffic gets heavy in Istanbul. Taxi rides across town can get expensive. It can also take well over an hour to travel across the city.

Cafes and Co-working Spaces

There are lots of cafes and co-working spaces in Istanbul where you can work. A few of the best cafes for working include:

1. Kronotrop- Located in Cihangir, this cafe is known for its specialty coffees. It also offers a small but comfortable workspace.
2. Petra Roasting Co.- Located in Gayrettepe, Petra is a spacious, modern coffee shop with a peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for working.
3. Brew Coffeeworks- Located in the historic Fatih district, this cafe offers a comfortable atmosphere and great coffee.

For a more formal workspace, Istanbul also has plenty of co-working spaces. Here are a few of the more popular options:

1. Kolektif House- This place has several locations across Istanbul, including Levent and Şişhane. Kolektif House offers modern and well-equipped workspaces, networking events, and yoga classes.
2. Workinton- Another popular co-working chain, Workinton, has locations all over Istanbul. They offer a quiet and professional environment.
3. Impact Hub- This place has a nice co-working space in the center of Istanbul.

Of course, you can also work from home if you have decent home wifi. That’s what I usually do. I’m not really a fan of working in cafes or co-working spaces but I do occasionally.

Meeting People and Socializing While Living in Istanbul

Meeting other expats and nomads in Istanbul is pretty easy. There is a relatively large expat population. There are several Facebook groups for expats and digital nomads living in Istanbul. Groups like “Expats in Istanbul” or “Istanbul Digital Nomads” are both great options. In these groups, members organize meetups. These are great places to meet like-minded people. You could also chat with other expats online and arrange your own meetups.

When it comes to meeting locals, Turkish people are pretty welcoming. You can meet locals while you’re out and about. Online dating is also popular in Istanbul. It can be a great way to meet locals.

The Language Barrier: Is English Spoken in Istanbul?

You will face a language barrier while living in Istanbul. Most locals speak some English but they are not fluent. English is spoken in touristy areas and among the younger generations. Even though English isn’t widely spoken, getting by without knowing Turkish is pretty easy. Most signs are in English and Turkish. Many restaurant menus are in both languages. You can easily order food, take public transport, and get around without speaking any Turkish.

If you’re planning to stay in Istanbul for longer than a couple of months, learning a few basic Turkish phrases can make everyday life a little smoother and easier. The locals will also appreciate it if you make an effort to learn the local language.

Turkish is considered to be one of the easier languages to learn for English speakers. The sentence structure is different but logically consistent. The language is also mostly phonetic. Words are pronounced as they’re written. If you study and practice with locals, you can an intermediate level of proficiency within a year or so. Becoming fluent would be difficult. Turkish people are generally patient when you make an effort to speak their language.

If you plan to stay in Istanbul long term, there are classes and apps you can use to learn Turkish. You could also join a language exchange program. Many locals are studying English and would be happy to help you learn Turkish in exchange.

Working in Istanbul

Istanbul has a diverse economy. There are job opportunities for foreigners but options are limited. Istanbul’s job market is very competitive. Turkish companies prefer to hire Turkish people.

There are jobs available to foreigners in the tourism sector and in education (especially English teaching). Salaries are low. You may have to take a pay cut if you want to work in Istanbul.

To legally work in Istanbul, you will need a work visa. This requires a job offer from a Turkish employer. The employer must apply for the work permit on behalf of the employee. Many digital nomads and remote workers work in Turkey on a tourist visa or residency permit.

Istanbul businesses usually operate Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 6 pm. The business etiquette can range from formal to informal depending on the company. The language of business is Turkish. English is commonly spoken in international companies and in the younger business community.

Pros of Living in Istanbul

• Istanbul is conveniently located- Istanbul is located between Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. It is a major hub city for many airlines. The city also has two large airports. It’s easy to find flights into and out of Istanbul. Flights to Istanbul are usually pretty affordable as well. This makes it convenient to go home to visit friends and family or to travel to other destinations in the region.
• The weather- Istanbul has great weather. For most of the year, temperatures are mild. Summers are warm and beautiful. It does get chilly during the winter but it rarely snows. The weather is rarely extreme.
• Excellent public transportation- Istanbul has an extensive public transportation network. The system is safe and easy to use. You can get anywhere in the city by public transport.
• The people- Turkish people are generally pretty friendly and welcoming to foreigners. If you get lost, you can ask for directions and people are happy to help. Locals are open to making friends with foreigners.
• The food- Turkish food is fantastic. There is something for everyone. There are excellent meat dishes, like kebab. There are also vegetarian options. Istanbul is also great if you have a sweet tooth. The baklava and Turkish delight are phenomenal. Turkish coffee and tea are also excellent. They are strong and delicious. Turkish cuisine is highly underrated, in my opinion.
• People don’t bother you when you’re out and about- In Istanbul, you can walk around freely without getting bothered. Once in a while, a scammer, salesperson, or beggar might approach you but it’s rare. When you’re out and about, nobody will bug you.
• Istanbul is a beautiful city- While walking around, you’ll catch spectacular views of the Bosphorus, bridges, and historic mosques. There are walking streets packed with people. You’ll see ships cruising around the harbor. It’s a stunning city. Living in a beautiful place is inspiring. One of my favorite things to do is just walk along the waterfront and take in the views.
• There is a large expat and digital nomad community- Istanbul is becoming increasingly popular among expats and digital nomads. There are large Facebook groups that you can join. There are meetup groups. It’s easy to meet like-minded people.
• There are lots of things to do- Istanbul is a massive city with loads of entertainment options. You can view the historic sights such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Galata Tower. There are tons of cafes where you relax and enjoy a Turkish coffee or tea. You can attend live music performances. You can go to the Turkish baths. There are loads of museums to visit including the Istanbul Archaeology Museum and the Islamic Arts Museum. There are gyms and swimming pools where you can exercise. There are dozens of public parks where you can walk, cycle, or run. You can go for a cruise on the Bosphorus. Taking a stroll in the city is also a great way to pass some time.
• You can get by with only English- You don’t need to speak Turkish to live in Istanbul. You can get by only speaking English. You will face a language barrier but it’s manageable.
• There are some great beaches nearby- From Istanbul, you can easily access both Marmara and Black Sea beaches. It’s possible to get to the beach by bus. You don’t need a car. A few free beaches worth visiting include Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada. There are a number of paid private beaches as well.
• Great healthcare- Private healthcare in Istanbul is world-class. It’s also far more affordable than healthcare in Europe or North America. The public healthcare system isn’t quite as good but it is sufficient.
• You won’t stick out- Istanbul is a multicultural city. There are people living and working there from all over the world. It’s also an extremely touristy city. People travel from all over the world to visit. While you’re out and about, you’ll see plenty of Europeans, East Asians, South Asians, Africans, Europeans, North Americans, Middle Easterners, etc. Wherever you’re from, you won’t really stick out.
• Istanbul is a world-class city- Istanbul is a massive city. Everything you could possibly need is available there. It is also a modern city with developed infrastructure.

Cons of Living in Istanbul

• Public transportation isn’t that great in the suburbs- If you choose to live on the outskirts of Istanbul, it will take you quite a bit of time to make your way to the city center. You may have to take a bus then transfer to the metro. It can be a hassle.
• Lots of people smoke- You will inhale a lot of second hand smoke while living in Istanbul. It seems like everyone smokes. When you go to a bar you’ll breathe smoke. When you’re walking through a park, you’ll breathe smoke.
• Traffic is bad- This is a problem with many major cities but traffic in Istanbul can be particularly intense. During rush hour, it can take two hours or more to drive across the city. You have to leave early if you have an appointment that you have to make. You’ll also have to leave early so you can make it to work on time if you commute. Traffic jams can happen at any time. You should