"Istanbul" Top 5 Page for this destination Istanbul Tourist Trap Tip by Erkmen

As a local living in Istanbul I will try to sumarize the traps that you may face in Istanbul and how to get rid of them..

All Taxis in Istanbul have taximeter, and they are yellow. Do not get in to a taxi without a meter.. A trap for tourists can be some taxis may use night tariff, which is 50% more, even in day time.. On day tariff you should see "GUNDUZ" letters and at night tariff it is "GECE", Warn the taxi if you see "GECE" sign in daytime..

If you happen to buy something on the touristy area beware of the untagged prices.. As tourists are the only shoppers there, you may not see a fix price.. So you should better make a bargain. Do not shop from the people on the streets..

Unique Suggestions: Taxi: If you happen to have a taxi trap, you can note their number plate and inform the police.. Arguing with a taxi driver may not always solve the problem, so do not intend to threaten them..

Shopping: Try to make shopping on places where locals also do their shopping.. Istanbul is relatively cheap than other cities, you can only enjoy it when you are in a local market place..

Fun Alternatives: Taxi:Many touristic areas are in walking distance and Istanbul has a good Bus system and also a very efficient tram systen in the tourity area. Try Buses or Trams in the city they are quiet cheap..

Shopping: If you are to buy something from a tourist shop, show the shopowner that you can be a though barganer.