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There are many activities and attractions for children in Istanbul. Among the many parks and playgrounds, there are also quaint shops selling traditional Turkish goodies for children and state-of-the-art entertainment complexes. The attractions are not only a mixture of eastern and western tastes, but also of old and new.

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New Years Day: is a national holiday throughout the city, with most businesses and shops being closed. It is a day for families to spend time together.

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To wholly experience all of the sights of Istanbul can take time. Some of the 2,000-year-old attractions can be fairly difficult to find, so many get missed. The Sultanahmet district contains much of Istanbul’s past and although it is the oldest part of the city, it is not the only historic quarter. The city centre’s Old City and New City are separated by the estuary of the Golden Horn. Many fascinating sights can be found around this area. Mosques are almost always open to visitors, as long as it is outside of prayer times, but appropriate dress must be worn.

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Istanbul has a comprehensive public transport network. All of the options are good value for money, even taxis. You can get anywhere in the city with relative ease and comfort. Tickets for buses, metros, ferries, trams and trains are available from all of the main stops and stations, or kiosks located near the main stops and stations. An electronic ticket (akbil) is available for purchase in advance. It is valid for a number of journeys and works out to be slightly cheaper and more convenient. There are two airports in the city, both dealing with international and domestic flights. The newer airport was built to handle the ever increasing number of visitors. Facilities at both airports are very good, as are the transportation options available from the terminals.

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Business hours are supposed to be from 09:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday, but many employees are still expected to put in 10-hour work a day. Shops generally stay open until 21:00.

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