Guide: Layover in Istanbul? Here is what you can do!

A friend of mine is doing a study abroad in Amsterdam this summer and the cheapest flight was on Turkish Airlines, therefore, she has a layover in Istanbul! Istanbul is probably one of the best cities to have a layover in.

So what can you do during a layover in Istanbul? A lot actually. Turkish Airlines even offers free tours to those passengers connecting through Istanbul’s Airport.

Five places you must see during a layover:

1. Hagia Sophia ($13 USD)
2. The Blue Mosque (Free)
3. Topkapi Palace ($13 USD)
4. Grand Bazaar (Free, just pay for what you buy!)
5. Taksim Square (Free)

*Make sure you convert your US Dollars to Turkish Lira at the airport or use an ATM.

Additionally, Turkish Airlines offers free tours to international transit passengers who have a layover in Istanbul. The shuttle, tour guides, and museum fees are all waived for Turkish Airline passengers who sign up for the free service. Simply click here and apply on their website for the tour service.

In order to qualify you must:

• Be flying Turkish Airlines on an international flight;
• Have a layover in Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST); and
• Your layover must be over 6hrs long but less than 24 hours (visas fees may apply).

Istanbul is a beautiful city and everyone should make an effort to visit at least once in their lifetime. If you are flying Turkish Airlines I definitely recommend that you take advantage of this free service.