Everything you need to know about getting to Istanbul, where to stay, visas, and navigating the city.
Istanbul is one of the world's great cities—straddling Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus strait. With a history spanning over 2,500 years, it has served as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires.
Today, Istanbul is Türkiye's economic and cultural heart, home to 16 million people and a thriving tech ecosystem. The city offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern innovation, making it the perfect setting for the GTA Summit.
Expect pleasant autumn weather with temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F). Light layers recommended.
Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards widely accepted. ATMs available throughout the city.
Type C/F plugs, 230V. Same as most of Europe. Bring an adapter if coming from UK/US.
Istanbul Airport (IST) is one of the world's largest and busiest international hubs, with direct connections to virtually every major city globally.
The main international airport, located on the European side. Turkish Airlines' hub with connections to 300+ destinations worldwide. Approximately 40-60 minutes to the city center.
Located on the Asian side, primarily serving low-cost carriers and domestic flights. Further from the city center (60-90 minutes depending on traffic).
Tip: Turkish Airlines often offers competitive rates for international delegates. We're exploring group discounts—register your interest to stay informed.
Istanbul offers accommodation options for every budget, from luxury hotels to boutique guesthouses. We recommend staying in areas with easy access to the summit venue.
Coming soon: We're negotiating group rates with partner hotels. Early registrants will receive exclusive offers.
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries are eligible for e-Visa or visa-free entry.
Important: Always verify current requirements with your local Turkish embassy or consulate before traveling.
Istanbul has an extensive public transport network. The Istanbulkart is a reloadable transit card that works on all public transport.
Modern and expanding network covering both European and Asian sides.
Convenient for tourist areas, especially the T1 line through Sultanahmet.
Scenic and practical way to cross the Bosphorus between continents.
BiTaksi is the most popular taxi app in Istanbul. Uber operates in Istanbul but uses licensed yellow taxis.