Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey with a population of 15.4 million. The city straddles Europe and Asia on the Bosphorus Strait with its Old City reflecting the cultural influences of empires that ruled the city. Istanbul is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites and in 2010 was voted the European Capital of Culture. The city has around 13 million visitors annually, with tourism key to local prosperity. Istanbul hosts the headquarters of numerous Turkish companies and accounts for around thirty percent of the Turkish economy. Shipping is a sizeable contributor to the local economy, with Istanbul being home to three major ports (the Port of Haydarpaşa, the Port of Ambarlı, and the Port of Zeytinburnu) and being strategically located on the Black and Aegean Seas with access to the Mediterranean. Manufacturing and services contribute 36% and 60% respectively to Istanbul’s output.
WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STAYING IN ISTANBUL?
Having booked your SilverDoor serviced apartment, it is time to prepare for your business trip to Istanbul. We have put together some essential information to help prepare you for your stay in the Turkish city.
Transport in Istanbul
Istanbul Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe and is situated in the Arnavutköy district of the city. The Havaist Airport Shuttle or taxi travel are the most efficient methods of reaching central Istanbul. When travelling around Istanbul, the tram and metro systems provide quick and reliable methods. Ferries also operate between the European and Asian sides of the Turkish city. The Istanbulkart can be purchased from major transport stations and can be topped up for travel around the city.
Weather in Istanbul
Istanbul has a transitional Mediterranean climate with the Turkish city experiencing hot summers and relatively cold winters. Spring and autumn are the rainiest seasons in Istanbul, with the Sea of Marmara to the south and the Black Sea to the north influencing weather by bringing temperature swings.
Sights in Istanbul
Istanbul has a number of interesting sites that are a must visit for both tourists and business travellers. The Hagia Sophia Mosque is one of the most impressive sights in Istanbul, alongside the -Topkapı Palace and Blue Mosque. The Grand Bazaar is a labyrinth of beautifully covered markets and the ultimate place for traditional Turkish shopping. The Basilica Cistern. Galata Tower and Dolmabahçe Palace are other key sights to explore in Istanbul, with a ferry across the Bosphorus recommended.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ISTANBUL
- Istanbul is the only city in the world that is divided between two continents: Europe and Asia.
- The Grand Bazaar, built in 1456, is the oldest and largest markets in the world with over 4000 stores.
- Istanbul has been the capital of many empires, including the Ottoman, Byzantine, and Roman Empires. Despite the immense history of Istanbul, the city of Ankara is the capital of Turkey.
- Roman Emperor Constantine the Great built Constantinople on seven hills to resemble the seven hills of Rome. The Ottoman Empire built mosques on each hill after they invaded the city.
- The city was known for having more than 1,400 public toilets during the era of the Ottoman Empire.
- The Intercontinental Derby between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe is regarded as one of the fiercest in world football. Galatasaray hail from the European side of the city, with Fenerbahçe in Asia.
WHAT IS A SERVICED APARTMENT?
Our serviced apartments in Istanbul are crafted with business travellers in mind. Modern, spacious, and situated in central Istanbul, our corporate accommodation is fully furnished and the very best in the city. At SilverDoor, we understand that every corporate traveller has different needs, which is why our expert booking agents go above and beyond by helping to find the perfect apartment for your stay. Our Istanbul serviced apartments offer unique flexibilities that are rarely an option in a typical hotel. Primarily, our corporate clients can decide how regular they would like their apartment to be serviced. This flexibility allows for fewer intrusions which helps to make our guests feel at home in Turkey. Secondly, our serviced accommodation in Istanbul comes with kitchen facilities, allowing our clients flexibility. Guests can choose whether to cook at home or eat of in one of Istanbul’s fine restaurants. Business travellers appreciate this flexibility which also helps to reduce expenses on a business trip. Finally, a USP of our serviced apartments in Istanbul is that the average apartment is approximately twice the size of a typical hotel room. Not only does this provide more room to relax, but the extra space also enables our clients to entertain guests or conduct business meetings in the living quarters.
WHY CHOOSE A SERVICED APARTMENT IN ISTANBUL WITH SILVERDOOR?
Opting to stay in a SilverDoor serviced apartment in Istanbul can bring multiple benefits for business travellers. With over 20 years in the corporate accommodation industry, at SilverDoor we are best placed to ensure that your business trip runs smoothly. We understand that every business traveller has differing needs, which is why our dedicated booking agents tailor every quotation to each enquiry. They listen to your needs and aim to find your perfect serviced apartment Istanbul. With a vast industry expertise, our dedicated booking agents strive to ensure that every client is completely satisfied with the quality of their accommodation and the level of service they experience. At SilverDoor, we have a strong knowledge of our apartment providers and are always looking to expand our portfolio to reaffirm our commitment to offering the best corporate accommodation in Istanbul.
