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Istanbul can be as affordable or as luxurious as you make it. Whether you're on a shoestring budget or planning a high-end trip, here are the key expense categories to consider when budgeting for your visit.

📊 Sample Daily Budgets (per person)

💸 Budget traveler: $30–$50/day

🤑 Mid-range traveler: $60–$120/day

💎 Luxury traveler: $200+/day

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✈️ Flights & Transportation

• Round-trip airfare (varies by departure location & season)
• Airport transfers (HAVAIST airport shuttle, taxi, or private transfer)
• Istanbulkart (public transport card for metro, buses, trams, and ferries)
• Taxi & ride-hailing services (BiTaksi or Uber, though public transport is more budget-friendly)
• Ferry tickets (for Bosphorus crossings or visiting the Princes’ Islands)
• Car rental (optional) (not needed unless traveling outside Istanbul)

💡 Budget tip: Use public transportation & ferries for the best value!

🏨 Accommodation

• Hostels & budget hotels ($15–$50 per night)
• Mid-range hotels & boutique stays ($50–$150 per night)
• Luxury hotels ($150+ per night)
• Airbnb & short-term rentals (varies by location and season)

💡 Budget tip: Staying in Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, or Fatih can be more affordable than touristic Sultanahmet hotels.

🍽️ Food & Drinks

• Street food & casual eats ($3–$10 per meal) – simit, döner, balık ekmek