We landed at Istanbul SAW around midnight and were at our hotel in Yenikapi by 230a. After a good night’s sleep and a not so good breakfast (only to realize after a week that this was the best), we set out to explore Istanbul.

First up, we purchased a Turkcell SIM Card that cost us around 55TL and for another 10TL gave us 1GB data for a week. Data, together with the Trafi app, was a life saver when wandering the streets. We also topped up the Istanbulkart for discounted trips on public transport at 2.15TL per trip, irrespective of the distance. It works with bus, tram, metro, ferry & cable car .

Topkapi Palace, Istanbul

Pictures taken at Topkapi Palace in Istanbul

We started in the Sultanahmet area covering the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia and Topkapi Palace – all of which I highly recommend. We purchased the using the Museumkart at 85TL, but didn’t end up using it to the fullest. So if you don’t plan to visit every museum, just pay at each entrance.

We ended the day enjoying Iskender at a restaurant in the area. Beware of scams where you’re invited to a good restaurant, only to realize that you hadn’t checked the menu card.

We planned to go around the markets, Galata tower and Bosphorus river on Day 2 of our Turkey Roadtrip.