Car Rental from Istanbul New Airport: The First Step

Best Routes to Explore Istanbul by Car

1. Sultanahmet Area and Historical Peninsula Tour

Sultanahmet, the historical heart of Istanbul, attracts both local and international tourists. If you're visiting Istanbul for the first time, starting your tour here is a great idea. While heading to Sultanahmet, you can explore several important spots along the way. Key highlights include:

• Hagia Sophia: This UNESCO World Heritage site, which has served as both a mosque and a church, impresses visitors with its magnificent architecture and interior decorations.
• Topkapi Palace: As the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, this palace showcases rich history and culture through its museums.
• Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque): One of Istanbul's iconic landmarks, this mosque is famous for its elegant architecture and stunning interior tile work.

By driving through this route, you can explore Istanbul’s historical texture more comfortably and quickly. After your tour of Sultanahmet, you can drive to modern neighborhoods like Beşiktaş or Nişantaşı to see the contemporary face of Istanbul.

2. Bosphorus Tour and Bebek – Ortaköy – Üsküdar

One of the most iconic spots in Istanbul is undoubtedly the Bosphorus. By renting a car, you can drive along this magnificent waterway connecting the Asian and European sides of Istanbul, offering stunning views. Some notable stops along the way include:

• Bebek: A trendy area along the Bosphorus, Bebek is famous for its luxurious cafes and restaurants. You can stop here and enjoy breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
• Ortaköy: Famous for its historical mosque, artistic atmosphere, and lively cafes, Ortaköy lies just under the Bosphorus Bridge, making it an ideal photo stop.
• Üsküdar: Located on the Asian side, Üsküdar is known for its historical landmarks and magnificent views, including the famous Maiden's Tower.

This scenic route along the Bosphorus provides a great opportunity to explore both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul and offers stunning views of the iconic bridge and waters.

3. Çamlıca Hill and Atatürk Arboretum

If you want to take a break from Istanbul's busy traffic, a route immersed in nature is a perfect choice. Çamlıca Hill, one of the highest points in Istanbul, offers a panoramic view of the city. From here, you can watch Istanbul’s skyline and enjoy the serenity of the place.

After visiting Çamlıca Hill, you can head to the Atatürk Arboretum. This peaceful place is perfect for those who enjoy nature, with various tree species and walking paths, offering a refreshing experience away from the city's hustle and bustle.

4. Taksim – Galata – Karaköy Tour

Taksim Square is one of the busiest and most popular areas in Istanbul. Located close to the city center, it is a great place to start your tour. While exploring Taksim, you can stroll along Istiklal Street and visit the Galata Tower. Additionally, Karaköy is one of Istanbul’s innovative and lively districts, full of cafes, art galleries, and restaurants.

This route is ideal for those who want to experience both the historical and modern sides of Istanbul. By driving through this route, you can quickly discover different atmospheres in the city.

Car Rental Tips for Istanbul

• Finding Parking: Parking can sometimes be difficult in Istanbul’s busy areas. It is a good idea to use parking garages, especially in tourist spots, to make your trip more convenient.
• Traffic Hours: Istanbul can get very congested during certain times of the day. Traffic is especially heavy in the mornings and evenings, during rush hour. Planning your trips around these hours can help avoid delays.
• Use Navigation: The roads in Istanbul can be complicated. When renting a car, it’s helpful to use a navigation device or smartphone apps to guide you along your journey.

Conclusion

Renting a car from Istanbul New Airport is a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the city. By following the best routes, you can easily discover both the historical and modern sides of Istanbul. Whether you want to visit historical landmarks or take a scenic drive along the Bosphorus, renting a car is the best way to experience Istanbul at your own pace.