Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
larly careful in include Aksaray/Laleli (the city's red-light district), the Grand Bazaar
(pickpocket central), and the streets off İstiklal Caddesi in Beyoğlu.
Telephone
If you are in European İstanbul and wish to call a number in Asian İstanbul, you must dial
0, followed by 216. If you are in Asian İstanbul and wish to call a number in European
İstanbul use 0 followed by 212. Do not use a prefix (that is, don't use the 0 or 212/6) if
you are calling a number on the same shore.
Country code
90
European İstanbul
212
Asian İstanbul
216
Code to make an intercity call
0 + local code
International Access Code
00
Directory Inquiries
118
International Operator
115
Mobile/Cell Phones
Mobile reception is excellent in İstanbul.
All mobile numbers start with a four-figure code beginning with
05.
that are handy for travellers. These cost 25 (including 5 credit) or 35 (including 20
credit) and can be topped up with credit.
Turkey uses the standard GSM network operating on 900MHz or 1800MHz (so not all US
and Canadian phones work here).
To use a local SIM in a phone you've bought from home, you'll need to register the
phone. To do this, have your passport with you when you buy a SIM card and ask the
dealer to register both the SIM and the phone. Unfortunately, the registration can take
days to be approved.
