🇹🇷 Istanbul Survival Guide: Dodge the Tourist Traps! 💸
Istanbul straddles Europe (new & old towns) and Asia (chill zone), split by the dazzling Bosphorus. Here’s how to experience the best without going broke! 📍 Old Town Route (History Overload!) Blue Mosque: Free! (But crowded—go early). Basilica Cistern: Skip the 200 RMB disappointment. 🚫 Hagia Sophia: Scam alert! Avoid combo tickets—buy separate at the counter. Topkapı Palace: 300+ RMB? Only if you love jewels. Archaeology Museum: Greek artifacts at a fair price. Grand Bazaar: Window-shop (haggle hard!). Bosphorus Cruise: 150 TRY/90min (Eminönü Pier—pick private tours, NOT public ferries!). Sunset = magic! 🌅 📍 New Town Route (Modern Vibes) Galata Tower: Overpriced view? Nope. Istiklal Street & Taksim Sq.: Hit Bolçi for chocolate souvenirs! 🍫 Dolmabahçe Palace: Too far? Save your legs. 💡 Pro Tips 🎟️ Attractions: 200-300 RMB each?! Prioritize: Blue Mosque (free). One museum/palace. Bosphorus cruise (best value!). 🚌 Transport: Grab a red transit card (200 TRY, sharable) for trams/ferries. 🏨 Stay Smart: Old Town: Quaint but cobblestone hell for luggage. New Town (Taksim): Smoother streets + luxury hotels. 🍽️ Eats: 1️⃣ Kervan Kebab Grill (huge portions!). 2️⃣ Salt Bae’s Burger (for the ‘gram). 3️⃣ Mado (must-try Turkish ice cream!). #Istanbul #BudgetTravel #SkipTheScams #TurkeyOnAShoestring