Overview of Istanbul
Istanbul is a Middle East city in Turkey. It scores 7.5/10 for its dating scene, 7/10 for safety and 6/10 for English proficiency. A single man living comfortably can expect to spend around $800 a month. The language barrier is moderate, the expat community is medium, visa access for most Western passports is rated moderate.
Depends on neighborhood and background. Can be traditional or modern. Be respectful and well-dressed. Tea garden or restaurant. Depends on her background. Usually man pays. Respectful atmosphere.
Cost of living in Istanbul
Typical monthly ranges in USD for one person. Rent assumes a modern one-bedroom in a central, expat-friendly area.
| Category | Per month |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $350-650 |
| Food | $150-300 |
| Transportation | $50-100 |
| Entertainment | $150-250 |
| Miscellaneous | $100-200 |
| Estimated total | $800 |
- Average date
- $25
- Local beer
- $2.5
- Gym / month
- $35
Want a personalized number? Try the cost of living calculator.
Dating scene in Istanbul
Apps that work here
- How to approach
- Depends on neighborhood and background. Can be traditional or modern. Be respectful and well-dressed.
- First dates
- Tea garden or restaurant. Depends on her background. Usually man pays. Respectful atmosphere.
- Who pays
- Traditional provider expectations. Men pay for everything. Modern women more independent.
- Communication
- Expressive and warm. Enjoy long conversations. Tea and talk culture. Can be possessive.
- Family involvement
- High
Relationships and marriage culture
East meets West. Secular vs religious divide. Family important. Women's rights vary by neighborhood.
Where to live in Istanbul
Neighborhoods that expats and foreigners tend to choose for safety, walkability and social life.
- Beyoğlu
- Kadıköy
- Beşiktaş
- Şişli
- Nişantaşı
Most newcomers report feeling settled after about 4 months.
Culture, customs and climate
Do
- +Learn Turkish basics
- +Respect Islamic traditions
- +Be a gentleman
- +Understand cultural mix
- +Be family-oriented
- +Dress well
Don't
- −Don't wear shoes in homes
- −Avoid PDA
- −Don't use left hand for eating
- −Never refuse tea
- −Don't discuss politics
- −Avoid showing sole of foot
Climate and lifestyle
Four seasons · Bosphorus breeze · Mild climate · Snow in winter
Safety in Istanbul
Istanbul scores 7/10 for safety and 7/10 for healthcare quality. The issues below are the ones foreigners most often report. Standard big-city precautions apply everywhere.
- Overcharging touristsModerate
- Shoe shine scamLow
See country-level advisories on the safety ratings page.