Flights from Kochi (Cochin) to Istanbul New Airport

Bustling City of Istanbul

Experience a sense of Turkish delight in the heart of the country's cultural capital, Istanbul. The bustling city is a veritable platter upon which to indulge the senses with a hubbub of metropolis sounds, incredible historic sites and a host of fine and fast food both native to the region and characteristic of a rich culture.

Explore Istanbul Year-Round

The remnants of the powerful Ottoman empire still fan through the complex streets of Istanbul. While the weather from November to April can be wet and windy, May through October attracts a vast number of tourists and visitors from around the world. The city also comes together to observe major Muslim festivals such as Eid and Ramadan. Standing at a powerful centre between the old world and the new, the East and West, Istanbul's position is one of mystique and light-heartedness. Locals celebrate the 29th of October as Republic Day, the Commemoration of Atatürk on the 19th of May as well as Youth and Sports Day.

Top Tips for a Traveller at Large

Istanbul is globally noted for its famous Grand Bazaar and Egyptian bazaar. However, expect goods to be overpriced - a fact that can be countered with a little good old-fashioned haggling.

While groceries are, on average, pricier than in India, Istanbul is also a fast food paradise. A smorgasbord of snacks from 2TRY, kebabs from 8 TRY and beer from 6 TRY awaits travellers.

Indian citizens travelling to Turkey are encouraged to apply for a visa within one month of the date of travel and passports need to have validity at least 6 months prior with one blank page

While You're Here...

Staying is made simple with 1 night in a hostel or guesthouse for roughly 30TRY. Choose between Eminönü, famous for its access to the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar or Beyoğlu, close to Taksim Square and İstiklâl Caddesi. The Price Islands make a great day trip and are car free. Expect to see only horse drawn carriages when visiting.

Getting around the city is a cinch with a well-connected public transit system that interfaces with buses, metros, minibuses, ferries for travel across the Bosphorus, and trams. Taxis are of course pricier than public transport. Taking the M1 Metro to Aksara from the airport, for example, costs around 4TRY, in comparison to 60 TRY for a taxi to Taksim.