🇹🇷 Istanbul on a Budget? YES, It’s Possible! 💸✨
(Okay, maybe not "dirt cheap"—but here’s how to explore without breaking the bank!) ✈️ Flights & Transfers Round-trip Tbilisi-Istanbul: ¥1,120 (Turkish Airlines, no checked luggage). Airport Transfer: Skip taxis! Solo? Take Havaist bus (~¥50). Group of 4? Pre-booked private transfer (¥60/pax, Mercedes van!). 🏨 Accommodation: Taksim = Best Base 📍 AHG Atlas Hotel Taksim (quiet, modern, Agoda/CTrip deals): Twin room: ¥335, Triple: ¥341. 🍜 Food Hacks 1️⃣ Imkonezya Indonesian Restaurant (Taksim): ¥50/pax, spicy AF—saved our Chinese stomachs! 🌶️ 2️⃣ 70cm Turkish Wrap (nearby): ¥30-40, massive portion. Avoid: Overpriced "white people food" in tourist areas! 🚇 Transport Tips Red Card (Istanbulkart): Buy at metro stations (shared use, rechargeable). Credit Card? Works but double the fare (e.g., ferries). ⛪ 3-Day Itinerary Day 1: Old City (Europe) Hagia Sophia (¥200+, only paid attraction worth it). Seven Hills Rooftop: Free seagull feeding + mosque views! Sunset Cruise (Bosphorus Tours, 250 TL, 7PM slot = magic 🌅). Day 2: New City (Europe) Casual strolls + hidden cafés. Day 3: Asian Side Ferry to Üsküdar → Bosphorus View Point → Kuzguncuk (colorful streets!). Optional: Kadıköy for hipster vibes. #Istanbul #BudgetTravel #TurkeyDiaries