Istanbul, being the fifth-biggest metropolitan in the world, is a massive city. Here you can find which Istanbul airport choice is the best for your journey.

So, which Istanbul airport should you fly into? **Istanbul has two options to choose from: Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side and Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side. Depending on your needs, your choice may change; overall, Istanbul Airport is the better option.**

So, what is there to know more about Istanbul Airport, and what does it offer to you? Next, you can find out a comparison of the two airports.

Istanbul Airport vs. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport 
---------------------------------------------------------

Being a large metropolitan city, Istanbul has two airports you can fly into. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is in the Asian part of the city and Istanbul Airport (IST) is in the European part. Istanbul Airport recently replaced the old Atatürk Airport and has stunning architecture.

Here you can find the pros and cons of each airport and why Istanbul Airport is a better choice.

### Istanbul Airport

The reason Istanbul Airport is a better pick is for two main reasons.

**When you’re arriving in Istanbul for a long visit, you’d probably want to land somewhere close to the tourist attractions like Galata Tower and pick an Airbnb, hotel, or hostel closer to these destinations.** Therefore, when you land on the correct side of the city, you’ll be spared from suffering in the traffic.

The second reason applies more **[if you have an extended layover](/posts/how-to-spend-24-hours-in-istanbul).** When you have a layover, you naturally would like to see the local culture. **Istanbul Airport offers a more fun layover experience than Sabiha Gökçen**.

### Sabiha Gökçen International Airport

The main difference between Sabiha Gökçen International Airport and Istanbul Airport isn’t just the location, but the fares may change as well.

**Generally, Sabiha Gökçen offers cheaper airfare than Istanbul Airport.** This is mainly because **most of the tourist attractions are on the European side of Istanbul, and you need transportation from the Asian side.  
  
Surely, passing the bridge is an experience of its own; however**, the traffic isn’t so fun when you’re stuck in it after work hours. **That’s why Istanbul Airport and staying on the European side may be a better option.**

Transport From the Airport to the City
--------------------------------------

Istanbul Airport is located quite out of the city, yet it has many transportation options. You can choose car rental like in every other country, use public transport which is recommended, or take a cab at your convenience.

The best option for transportation from Istanbul Airport is [public transportation](https://www.istairport.com/en/passenger/transport/public-transport) if you’re on a budget.

There are specific shuttle busses called the Havaist Bus which can take you to both sides of the city. You can find the Havaist schedule online easily. The fares change according to the location you want to go to.

In addition to the Havaist Busses, you can use the municipality busses called IETT. The Istanbul Airport website gives you enough information to start planning your journey. For these busses, you should obtain a municipality card or one-time tickets.

Again, [be careful about the traffic in Istanbul](/posts/best-way-get-around-istanbul). If you are in a rush, the highways may not be the best option for you. In this case, you can try private shuttles or rental cars. [Taxis](https://www.istairport.com/en/passenger/transport/taxi) are also better choices, yet they can be [quite expensive](/posts/common-taxi-scams-turkey).

The airport is quite far from the city due to traffic. Let’s say that you want to go to Beşiktaş, one of [the most beautiful and entertaining neighborhoods of Istanbul](/posts/coolest-istanbul-neighborhoods), you should bear in mind that even though Beşiktaş is about 30 km (18.4 miles) to the airport, it will take about [90 minutes](https://istanbeautiful.com/how-to-get-from-new-istanbul-airport-to-besiktas/) even with the Havaist Bus.

So it would be best if you plan your itinerary with lots of time allocated for transportation from the airport.  
  
In the near future, a metro line will be serving the tourists to take them from the airport to a closer neighborhood in Istanbul, Gayrettepe. Currently, this line is under construction and expected to finish in 2021.

A Closer Look at Istanbul Airport
---------------------------------

This brand new airport began welcoming daily flights around November 2018. It is still not fully completed yet; it is planned to be among the world's biggest airports when its construction is done.  
  
The security of the airport is also high-tech and ensures safety. A total of [3,500 security personnel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Istanbul_Airport) serve the tourists. There are fixed security cameras almost around every corner. It’s supported by thermal cameras and fiber optic sensors. The terminal building has a total of 9,000 security cameras to ensure your safety.

The location of the airport is just out of the city. The airport sits on the intersection roads to Arnavutköy and Çatalca. It’s located about the north of the city on the European side. With public transportation, you can access [the historic and entertaining parts](/posts/where-to-stay-in-istanbul) of the European side easily.

This airport’s building phase was quite controversial at the beginning. The public view advocated that Atatürk Airport was good enough.

However, the Turkish government decided that Atatürk Airport couldn’t grow anymore due to the expansion of the city. Atatürk Airport couldn’t allow additional cargo or charter flights, hence the need for a new and bigger airport.

The planned Istanbul Airport is surely going to be one of the biggest in the world since it’s expected to have a capacity of 200 million passengers per year. In 2019, it served 52 million total passengers. When the airport construction finishes, this number will rise.

The Facilities in Istanbul Airport
----------------------------------

Currently, Istanbul Airport hasn’t reached its full glory; however, it offers many opportunities for you to have a good transit experience. Also, you can just stretch your legs and have a decent cup of coffee after a long flight and before you go to your destination in Istanbul.

The [food and beverages](https://www.istairport.com/en/passenger/airport-guide/food-and-beverage) section is quite satisfactory. You have many options available for you both in the International terminal and Domestic terminal.

There are many bakeries, patisseries, cafes, bars, and restaurants available at your disposal. Be prepared for the culture shock; you can see the names of familiar global fast-food companies alongside some popular local ones.

For a shopping experience, you have many options for jewelry, accessories, watches, toys, even home textiles. However, one thing you should never miss is the Duty-Free shop. Istanbul Airport has a quite big area just dedicated to the Duty-Free shop, and it has some interesting facilities for you to try.

Interestingly, Istanbul Airport may have the most technologically advanced Duty-Free shop in the world. It has incorporated a new technology called [“Magic Mirror”](https://www.istairport.com/en/passenger/airport-guide/duty-free) that allows you to check watches, sunglasses, and other accessories without physically trying them on.

Other technological curiosities include 3-D hologram systems, rechargeable smart baskets, and mobile payment points. Certainly, you’ll highly enjoy this technological shopping experience when you pay a visit to this Duty-Free.

In addition to the great facilities, you can try using the [international lounge](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g293974-i368-k12443159-Tourist_Attractions_near_new_Istanbul_Airport-Istanbul.html) for a more luxurious adventure.

Final Thoughts
--------------

Now it’s certain that Istanbul Airport has a lot to offer even though it’s not officially fully constructed.

This airport will ensure that you have a satisfactory service during your transfer, landing, or departure. It has enough facilities and adventures for you to either spend some good and comfortable time or have a safe arrival in Istanbul.

The next time you’re buying a ticket that has [a transit from Istanbul](/posts/how-to-spend-24-hours-in-istanbul) Airport, or you directly want to visit Istanbul, a unique cultural mosaic of cultures, you know that Istanbul Airport will be a good choice for your trip.

woman-in-istanbul-airport-terminal.jpg

Find out which Istanbul airport is the best choice for your journey. Istanbul has two options: Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side and Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side.

Which Istanbul Airport Should You Fly Into?

Whether you are a backpacker on a budget, a digital nomad, or a well-organized travel guru, chances are you dream of visiting Istanbul one day. But you may find yourself questioning the overall safety of the city.

So, is Istanbul safe?  **Istanbul is completely safe for you as long as you are careful with the way you travel. Get familiar with local customs, avoid certain neighborhoods, and respect people, and you will have nothing to worry about.**

Let's discuss what you can expect when you first visit the city.

Istanbul Is Safer Than You Think
--------------------------------

Being one of the most happening places in the world, Istanbul is no exception when it comes to concerns about safety. Thanks to its architectural masterpieces, well-developed transport system, and culturally diverse classes, it also promises a lot of chaos that you have to pay attention to while traveling.

Though it’s safer than you probably think, [there are certain things you should mind while traveling to Istanbul](/posts/dos-and-donts-for-turkey).

One of the main reasons that you should be careful with certain touristy and crowded neighborhoods, such as Sultanahmet Square or Istiklal Street, is that these areas connect completely different walks of life in one place.

This and the hustling and bustling routine of everyday life alongside the economic difficulties prepare the ground for petty crimes and [scams](/posts/common-tourist-scams-istanbul).

Home to 15.52 million people, including migrants, the work ethic by which the Turkish tourism industry is operated is questionable at many levels. Especially after midnight, Taksim Square becomes a hunting ground with rip-offs. Try to avoid strangers [who invite you to have a drink at a certain place](/posts/common-tourist-scams-istanbul) unless you want to end up paying a huge bill.

Keep your wallet, phone, and other important belongings in close sight. Make sure the zippers are properly closed if you are wearing a backpack. Most importantly, do not carry your passport with you; a copy of it will be enough if you have to show it to the authorities, although this seldom happens as the city police are accustomed to tourists.  

After a long day touring the city, the last thing you want is to experience the hustle of a bus or metro ride. That’s why you might choose a taxi ride. But remember that [some taxi drivers might quote a higher fare for your ride when they spot your non-Turkish roots](/posts/common-taxi-scams-turkey). To avoid this, open Google Maps, and follow the route to make sure you are on the right track.

The same happens when you are shopping in the local bazaars. Souvenirs and traditional art pieces, jewelry, and rare spices are among the favorite items tourists like to buy, yet they are priced unfairly by most shopkeepers. So, don’t forget to check for the prices at a few shops and bargain.

Additionally, you find beggars and random strangers stopping you in the way and narrating to you their sad life stories only to ask you for monetary help.

The best way to avoid all such experiences is by traveling with a local to guide you. Also, learn a number of useful Turkish phrases in order to communicate and negotiate with the locals when shopping. You can also get help from mobile dictionaries.

The overcrowded places and traffic will also overwhelm you, especially if you want [safe traveling](/posts/turkey-travel-safety-tips). The best way to handle this mismanaged chaos is to [select hotel accommodation near the tourist places you plan to visit](/posts/where-to-stay-in-istanbul).

Even though such hotels are more expensive, they will save you from the overly charged transport fares. Also, [try to avoid planning a hectic routine](/posts/how-many-days-for-istanbul) as it steals away the joy of the trip.

And if you happen to experience any kind of unfortunate events or get scammed during your visit, keep in mind that there are some travel insurance providers that may even offer fraud/scam coverage up to a certain amount.

Remember to always buy travel insurance when planning a trip to Turkey, just to be safe!

[World Nomads](https://www.worldnomads.com/Turnstile/AffiliateLink?partnerCode=TURK3YN0M4D&source=link&utm_source=TURK3YN0M4D&utm_content=link&path=//www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance/) has a large selection of travel insurance available.

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What About Terrorism?
---------------------

Terrorism has become a global threat, leading us to be more cautious, especially while traveling.

Metropolitan cities are more prone to attract terrorist activities, and it’s no surprise that Istanbul has gotten its fair share of acts of terrorism. **Fortunately, the government has successfully dealt with the attacks, and terrorism is not a day-to-day threat in most Turkish cities.**

Some people have second thoughts about traveling to Turkey because of its portrayal as an extremist Islamic country. But [this does not reflect reality at all](/posts/common-misconceptions-turkey). **Turkey is a secular and progressive country and a member of the G20.**

The country hosts millions of tourists from various countries every year, most of which are frequent visitors, and Istanbul is a truly cosmopolitan city.

The best way to solve all such concerns is to read a bit about Turkish history, its transition to a modern state, and check out some current news programs.

You can always go online to find some local Turkish people to see how they live and even communicate with them to get a closer look and deeper understanding of their culture before traveling.

When it comes to airway travel security, Turkey implements strict safety measures in [Istanbul’s two international airports, Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), and Istanbul Airport (IST)](/posts/which-istanbul-airport).

The new Istanbul Airport will be the biggest in the world when it’s fully completed. So, airport security is proportionately very tight. The staff is helpful and courteous, and security checks have been designed to ensure the security of each traveler without making them feel uncomfortable or targeted.

One of the main problems that have often worried travelers is [the language barrier.](/posts/do-people-speak-english-in-turkey) All airports and metro stations in Turkey have signs and announcements in both Turkish and English as well as English-speaking staff, but you cannot expect to hear and see English at all public transport options.

The easiest way [to be prepared to travel in Turkey](/posts/what-to-know-before-visiting-turkey) is to educate yourself with the basic Turkish travel vocabulary. 

You can also install language translating apps on your mobile phone before you travel to Turkey. Often these apps have the option for speech translation and will be the saving grace to any and every embarrassing situation.

If you happen to have any problems communicating, you can always request the airport staff to provide you with a translator.

How To Stay Safe in Istanbul
----------------------------

As you already know,  Istanbul is divided into two parts, the European and the Asian side. Each side has countless densely populated suburbs. The European side has most of the touristic sites, and the Asian side is commonly known as the residential side.

What is unique about Istanbul is that these two completely different sides create a unique combination of lifestyle and culture, making Istanbul utterly mesmerizing.

On the other hand, this unique blend is the same reason why you should be extra careful while traveling. Istanbul is full of individuals coming from very different cultures, even within the country. So, sometimes lifestyles clash, and disputes happen.

Most streets in Turkey, especially in Istanbul, are monitored through security cameras and police patrolling to make them secure. Still, sadly, most [female tourists](/posts/istanbul-safe-solo-female-travelers) (and locals alike) often complain about the “catcalling” culture and continuous stares of Turkish men they encounter, while male tourists can find themselves in street fights in a matter of minutes in some parts of the city. 

All these create a sense of insecurity, although these kinds of behaviors are not specific to any one suburb. That’s why we’ve compiled a few tips to avoid such circumstances:

*   Avoid the backstreets and suburbs of Taksim after midnight. 
*   Respect [the dress code of mosques](/posts/mosques-to-see-istanbul) and other places of worship (no exposed legs and upper body, a scarf slightly covering the head).
*   [Try not to wear clothes that expose your body](/posts/what-to-wear-in-turkey) in certain conservative districts of Fatih or Üsküdar neighborhoods; you can ask your hotel front desk for tips on this.
*   Areas like Eminönü and Fatih can be extremely crowded. Try visiting them early in the morning.
*   Avoid people offering you a free ride or free tours.
*   Watch out for [common scams in major tourist areas](/posts/common-tourist-scams-istanbul) (Sultanahmet, Grand Bazaar, and Taksim.
*   For extra precaution and safety, it is recommended for every traveler to have a mobile equipped with safety apps.

Closing Thoughts
----------------

Despite all these ups and downs, Istanbul remains a rising city of the modern world with its beautiful landscapes, unique culture that combines the oriental east and the modern west, and hospitality of its residents.

While one can go on and on about its unique qualities, you can never truly understand this magnificent city [until you experience it](/posts/is-istanbul-worth-visiting). 

If and when you do, you can always buy travel insurance when planning a trip to Turkey, just to be safe!

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So, instead of asking if Istanbul is safe, [try to be prepared for certain possible scenarios to feel safer](/posts/turkey-travel-safety-tips) and enjoy the journey. As you discover the dreamy world of this beautiful, historically, and culturally rich city that entices your imagination to the fullest, you will only find new reasons to visit the city once again.

crowd-istiklal-istanbul.jpg

Is Istanbul safe? Find out the safety tips and precautions to take while traveling to Istanbul. Learn about tourist scams and the importance of travel insurance.

Is Istanbul Safe?

Istanbul is a must-see city for anyone visiting Turkey. Fortunately for travelers, it’s also the gateway to many of the [best destinations in Turkey](/posts/best-place-in-turkey-for-families). Discover the best day trips from Istanbul to enhance your Turkish travel itinerary.

Although Istanbul has been the center of Turkish trading and culture, it isn’t the only location rich in culture, beauty, and history. Venture beyond Turkey’s biggest city to find beautiful beach towns, wonders of the world, and historic battle sites. Your bucket list in Turkey is sure to grow when you discover the fascinating attractions waiting for you outside of Istanbul.

So, what are the best day trips from Istanbul?

7 Amazing Trips From Istanbul
-----------------------------

### Boating Day Trips

With its position on the Bosphorus, Istanbul offers access to incredible day trips via boats.

#### 1\. Princes’ Islands / Adalar

![princes islands istanbul panoramic view](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840864/princes_islands_istanbul_large_79bf526e93.jpg)

The Princes’ Islands are a short boat ride from Istanbul but offer a completely different atmosphere from the busy city.

Catch the ferry from Kabataş for half an hour to find yourself among these gorgeous little islands. You can select the type of day trip you’d like and find an island to fit your style. The Princes’ Islands have white sand beaches, towering forests, and old-world charm with traditional Ottoman-style houses along the shores.

These islands are a favorite of Istanbul locals who need a break from city life and the permanent traffic. They take day trips out to these islands to breathe in the fresh air, have delicious seafood, and move at a slower pace.

Join them by relaxing on a beach at Heybeliada Island. Go back in time at Büyükada Island with its history museum. 

#### 2\. Golden Horn / Haliç

![golden horn panoramic view istanbul](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840863/golden_horn_istanbul_large_69557e9a04.jpg)

The Golden Horn isn’t actually a single place to visit. Rather, it’s a notable feature of the Bosphorus that set Istanbul up to be the booming city it is. Historically, the Golden Horn was a crucial port for the shipping and trading industry.

You can still visit this essential port while [exploring the monuments of the nearby districts](/posts/unusual-things-to-do-istanbul).

Hop on a ferry cruise to tour your way up the Bosphorus to the Golden Horn. Hop off at Hasköy to visit the famous Aynalıkavak Kasrı pavilion and [the 500-year-old Eyüp Mosque](/posts/mosques-to-see-istanbul). You’ll be taken aback by the historic architecture set against the backdrop of the Bosphorus. 

### Driving Day Trips

Istanbul is located within easy driving distance of some of the most famous historical sites in the world. Be sure to include them when you’re planning your day trips from Istanbul.

#### 3\. Gallipoli / Gelibolu

![canakkale martyrs memorial in turkey](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840861/canakkale_martyrs_memorial_large_5e0b52c72d.jpg)

Gallipoli is the famous site of the World War I battle between the Anzac and the Turkish armies. The area has been dedicated to commemorating the fallen soldiers with specific memorials to fallen soldiers from each nation.

Even if you aren’t a history buff, you’ll want to visit this historical location for the stunning beauty of Anzac Cove and the white marble memorials that keep the tragedies of the battle with us.

Although Gallipoli is a short car ride away and can be navigated on your own, it’s best to join a tour to get more information about the battles and how they affected Turkish history.

If you’re in Turkey for Anzac Day, be sure to plan a day trip from Istanbul to Gallipoli to take part in the memorial celebration that happens every year. You’ll see the very nations who battled years ago united in the memory of the fallen.

#### 4\. Troy / Truva & Çanakkale

![ancient troy ruins in canakkale turkey](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840866/ancient_troy_ruins_large_fdc3e74eb1.jpg)

History and mythology buffs will already have Troy at the top of their bucket list. It’s one of the most famous ancient sites in the world, thanks in large part to the mythology surrounding it.

Don’t miss a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site to tour the very walls the Trojan horse is said to have passed through.

Take a guided tour to learn the significance of the ruined walls and the Temple of Athena. You’ll discover that there were multiple builds of the city that have been slowly uncovered through the centuries. Guides even give insights into battle strategies and how the sloped city walls thwarted enemy battering rams.

Once you’ve visited the historic site, head to Çanakkale, the nearest city center, to see a giant Trojan horse monument for visitors.

You’ll be drawn to turn your day trip into an overnight adventure when you learn about the city’s developed nightlife.

### Flying Day Trips

Save on driving time and book cheap flights to explore further regions of the country on short day trips.

#### 5\. Pamukkale

![pamukkale travertines in denizli turkey](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840865/pamukkale_large_0da3ad245e.jpg)

Pamukkale may be the most photographed natural feature in Turkey. The white thermal pool terraces that cascade onto one another as they pour down a mountainside are not to be missed.

Pack your camera and your bathing suit to visit this hugely popular Turkish attraction. Be prepared for your feet to get wet as you traverse the pools and make your way through the crystal blue water.

Beyond the pools, Pamukkale is the site of the Greco-Roman city of Hierapolis that provides a stunning historical backdrop to this natural wonder. You can explore historic tombs and walk along the ancient city roads before heading back to soak at the hilltop thermal baths.

Don’t miss this ultimate day trip. Book a 2-hour [plane ride from Istanbul](/posts/which-istanbul-airport) to access this one-of-a-kind location. 

#### 6\. Ankara

![ankara castle at night with full moon](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840867/ankara_at_night_large_141fe64725.jpg)

Although Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, [it actually isn’t the capital](/posts/common-misconceptions-turkey). Ankara is Turkey’s capital city that lies in the center of the Anatolia region. Although you can access it in a day, you’ll spend most of your time driving. Save 5 hours to view the city by catching a 1-hour flight from Istanbul.

While you’re in Ankara, be sure to visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. You’ll learn about how he changed Turkish society and government while wandering through gorgeous marble halls.

Don’t forget to visit the Old Quarter to wander past red-roofed houses. Get a unique view of the city from Atakule Tower, the highest viewpoint in the city.

There’s plenty to do in the country’s capital. You’ll find it completely different and yet just as captivating as Istanbul.

#### 7\. Ephesus

![ephesus ruins in izmir turkey with a rainbow](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840862/ephesus_large_3c24a5151e.jpg)

Ephesus can be accessed by driving or flying from Istanbul, but you’ll save time to explore if you fly.

Ephesus is the site of an ancient Greek city. It’s one of the most well-preserved cities on Earth, with ancient monuments still towering in all their glory.

You can walk the streets of the Ancient Greeks, view an amphitheater that is built into the base mountainside, and see where the Virgin Mary supposedly spent her last days. Without a doubt, you’ll spot some of the famous Ephesus [cats that roam](/posts/why-cats-istanbul) the ruins of the library and wait happily for human attention.

Don’t miss the opportunity to walk through an Ancient Greek town.

Closing Thoughts
----------------

[Istanbul](/posts/is-istanbul-worth-visiting) is at the top of most bucket lists, but don’t forget about the other wonders Turkey has to offer. Take advantage of the best day trips from Istanbul to discover natural wonders, world-changing history and walk in the footsteps of the ancient world.

Expand your Turkish visit to see more of the country’s natural beauty and historic homes by venturing outside of the largest city.

buyukada-aerial-large.jpg

Explore the best day trips from Istanbul to discover beautiful beach towns, wonders of the world, and historic battle sites outside of the city.

7 Amazing Day Trips From Istanbul

Istanbul is a popular center of culture, cuisine, and history on the Bosphorus. Unusually, it’s also overrun by cats. Tourists always ask why these cats are all over Istanbul.

So, why are there so many cats in Istanbul? **Istanbul is a predominantly-Muslim city, and in the Muslim religion, cats are sacred creatures. Historically, the city’s cats killed rats that brought disease and mice that ate the libraries’ books. Istanbul’s citizens valued them for their help and have continued to thank them by leaving them food.**

Let’s explore the historical and cultural reasons why there are so many cats in Istanbul.

How Cats Came To Istanbul
-------------------------

In 2019, [the New York Times estimated that over 125,000 cats were roaming free in Istanbul](https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/02/opinion/turkey-stray-dogs.html). To understand why there are so many cats now, we have to look at when cats first came to Turkey.

The first cat is said to have arrived during the [Ottoman Empire](https://theculturetrip.com/europe/turkey/articles/istanbuls-street-cats-the-infamous-four-legged-locals/) on a trading vessel. Sailors kept cats on their boats to kill rodents during their sea voyage. It seems some of the cats felt there was work to be done in Istanbul and disembarked.

And work they did. Throughout the centuries, cats have majorly impacted Turkish health and education.

The cats killed rats, mice, and other vermin that spread infection. They lowered rates of infection and kept the city cleaner.

As a port city, Istanbul was especially benefited by the arrival of the cats. They killed the rats that enjoyed the dampness of the city and spread diseases from the boats.

The vermin loved snacking on the paper of the libraries’ books. Cats killed off these pests and saved many books from becoming mouse droppings. Librarians adored the cats for their work protecting their expensive books.

Without these cats, Turkey may have suffered extreme cases of disease and would have lost much of its written wisdom.

The cats were valued for their ability to hunt and became a symbol of cleanliness in the city. People respected the cats for their assistance and came to see them as an integral part of Istanbul.

Now, when you [visit Istanbul](/posts/is-istanbul-worth-visiting), you’re certain to see a few cats exploring the city as their own. 

Cats As Sacred Animals
----------------------

Istanbul isn’t alone in its appreciation of cats. Cats are seen as sacred animals in Muslim cultures. Other Muslim cities, like Cairo, are well known for their cat populations.

In fact, Turkey’s cats may have arrived on Egyptian boats.

Both Istanbul and Cairo have cat celebrities who have helped increase tourism to the cities. You’ll find local cats with Instagram accounts or tourist guides that say you must take a photo of a local cat. Istanbul went viral with [#catsofIstanbul](https://twitter.com/hashtag/catsofistanbul?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Ehashtag), where visitors were sharing photos of the local cats.

Why do Islamic people believe cats are sacred? There are many stories of the Prophet Muhammad interacting with cats. He is said to have had a fondness for cats.

The most well-known story of the Prophet’s connection to cats is tied to a blessing he gave to the species. Muhammad was nearly killed by a serpent when a cat saved his life by slaying the creature. To show his appreciation, Muhammad blessed the cat, giving all cats the ability to always land on their feet when they fall.

These texts also paint cats as ritually clean animals, in part because of their history of killing vermin. Muslims recognized the lowered infection rates that resulted from cats killing the mice and celebrated the felines for it.

The Unspoken Rule
-----------------

Visitors to Istanbul are often surprised at the state of the street cats. Aside from the sheer amount of them throughout the city, the cats are also well-cared for.

Unlike strays in the West, who are skinny and sometimes vicious, Istanbul’s street cats are plump with shiny coats and love attention from strangers. Although poorer districts have less well cared for street cats, most of the city’s cats are well cared for, like Western pets.

Who is caring for these cats?

**The entire city of Istanbul.** In Turkey, there is an unspoken rule amongst the citizens. To repay the cats for saving them from disease and protecting their books, the citizens take care of the cats. They provide them with food, water, and shelter whenever they can.

When you’re [walking through Istanbul](/posts/best-way-get-around-istanbul), keep an eye out for bowls on street corners where people have made offerings to the city’s feline guardians. The parks are especially popular as cat feeding zones. Be prepared to offer up the scraps of your picnic to appease the waiting cats.

So Turkey’s cats aren’t actually stray cats at all. They belong to everyone and no one. Everyone welcomes them. They aren’t seen as unwanted pests as many strays are viewed in the West. 

This care has tamed the city’s cats. Most don’t fear humans. They’ll approach you for pets and food whenever they please.

That’s why it’s important to learn how to treat cats in Istanbul. 

How To Treat Cats In Istanbul
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Even though cats are an essential part of Istanbul’s culture, they aren’t always treated properly. Until recently, animal rights laws in Turkey could only be enforced with a fine. Now, [if you hurt, kill, or neglect an animal in Turkey, you’ll get jail time.](https://www.trtworld.com/life/jail-time-to-replace-turkeys-paltry-animal-cruelty-penalties-343581#:~:text=Highlights%20from%20the%20draft%20law&text=Killing%20animals%20intentionally%2C%20cruel%20behaviour,to%203%20years%20in%20prison.)

It’s hard to believe with the famous Ephesus cats and the felines confidently wandering the Sultanahmet that people would mistreat these guardians.

The worst treatment the cats usually get is being yelled at by the fishermen on the Galata Bridge over the Golden Horn. Follow the shouts, and you’ll find a cat with one of the fishermen’s fresh catches clutched in its jaws.

Tourists have started to treat cats like living attractions to spot throughout the city. Keep an eye out to find the cats [in mosques](/posts/mosques-to-see-istanbul), stopping streetcars by ambling across the road, sunning on the banks of the Bosphorus, and demanding a spare piece of kebab from your lunch.

Istanbul is notorious for its bad drivers who don’t even stop for pedestrians. It says a lot about the city’s respect for cats that a street cat can bring traffic to a standstill.

Learn more about the life of Istanbul cats from [_Kedi_](https://www.kedifilm.com/), a documentary that followed the lives of seven of these guardians as they spent their day in the city.

Learning about these cats will help you fall in love with them. Soon you’ll be trying to learn how to treat them as well as the citizens do.

If you have extra food, share it with the cats to show your appreciation for their hard work around the city. Give to charities that help distribute food to the cats in poorer areas. 

If you fall in love with one of Istanbul’s street cats, [some charities will help you adopt it](https://yabangee.com/guide-adopting-street-animals-turkey/) and take it home with you. You can have a piece of Istanbul with you even after you’ve left the city, although it might still demand a kebab. 

Closing Thoughts
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Istanbul is the best city for cat lovers. You’ll find cats around every corner, happily snacking on offerings from the residents.

Although the cats are essentially tame, they’re still living in the streets. They belong to no one and everyone. They’re as much a part of Istanbul as [Turkish tea](/posts/best-drinks-turkey) and bazaars.

Before you visit Istanbul, it’s helpful to learn why there are so many cats in Istanbul to understand how to treat them. Once you know their incredible history, you’ll be offering them spare pieces of chicken, too.

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Explore the historical and cultural reasons why there are so many cats in Istanbul. Learn about their significance in Muslim culture and how the city cares for them.

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