Useful Information

Welcome to Istanbul for the OECD/IOPS Global Forum on Private Pensions (November 2025).

We hope you find your time in the city enjoyable.

This guide provides everything you need to know before and during your stay; from local transportation to cultural tips and emergency information.

✈️ Arrival & Transportation

Most international flights arrive at İstanbul Airport (IST), located 40 km from the city center (Taksim).
Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is on the Asian side, around 50 km away.

Getting to the Venue

The Forum will take place at the Hilton Bosphorus in Harbiye, a 10 minute walk from Taksim Square.

Transport options:

  • Havaist Shuttles: 24-hour airport buses to Taksim and Beşiktaş
  • Havabus Shuttles: Airport buses to Taksim, Kadıköy and Yenisahra
  • Metro: Take the M11 line to Kağıthane, transfer to M2 (Taksim)
  • Taxi: Approximately 40–50 minutes (depending on traffic)
  • The venue, Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus, is located in Harbiye — a 10-minute walk from Taksim Square.

🚋 Public Transportation

Istanbul has a modern and extensive public transport network that includes metro, tram, bus, ferry and funicular lines.
To use these services, you’ll need an İstanbulkart (rechargable travel card).

Where to buy:

  • İstanbulkart centers
  • Ticket vending machines
  • Authorized kiosks
  • Individual or corporate agents
 

💡 Tip: Limited pass tickets are valid for a fixed number of trips. You can also top up your İstanbulkart balance via kiosks or mobile apps.

🚖Taxi

Taxis are widely available in yellow, turquoise and black, each with different fare levels. Always check that the taximeter is running when you enter the vehicle.

Payments should be made in Turkish Lira (TRY) only.

Additionally, you can use your credit card in taxis.

Recommended taxi apps:

  • Uber
  • BiTaksi
  • Moovit
 

⚠️ Avoid paying in foreign currency. Always pay in TRY to prevent overcharging.

☀️ Weather in November

November in İstanbul is mild and occasionally rainy.

Average daytime temperature ranges between 10°C and 17°C.

We recommend bringing a light coat or umbrella, especially for outdoor activities like the Bosphorus boat tour.

At night, wind and rain are common, so dressing in layers is advised to adapt to changing weather conditions.

⚡ Electricity and Plugs

  • Voltage: 230V / 50Hz
  • Plug type: Type F (Schuko), standard in most European countries.
    Participants from the UK, US, or South Africa will need a plug adapter.

💵 Currency & Payments

    • Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
    • 1 EUR ≈ 49 TRY (approx.)
    • 1 USD ≈ 42 TRY (approx.)
    • Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in the city center.
    • Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are widely accepted.
    • ATMs are available throughout the city and most hotels accept major credit cards.

📱 Mobile & Internet

Free Wi-Fi is available at the conference venue and most hotels.
Local SIM cards can be purchased from Turkcell, Vodafone, or Türk Telekom stores.
E-SIM options are available at İstanbul Airport.

🙏 Cultural Tips

🤝 Etiquette

  • A warm “Merhaba” (Hello) goes a long way.
  • Tea (“çay”) is a symbol of friendship; you’ll often be offered some during conversations.
  • A handshake is common for greetings; close friends may greet with cheek kisses.
  • A simple “Merhaba” when entering shops is always appreciated.
  • While Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city, modest dress is expected when visiting mosques or traditional places.
  • Tipping (~10%) is customary in restaurants, cafés, and taxis.

 

💬 Useful Turkish Phrases

English Turkish Pronunciation
Hello Merhaba / Selam
Welcome Hoş geldiniz
Good Morning Günaydın
Good evening İyi akşamlar
Good bye Güle güle
Thank you Teşekkür ederim
Yes / No Evet / Hayır
How much? Ne kadar?
Where is ...? ... nerede?
What is this? Bu ne?

🏥 Emergency & Practical Numbers

Service Number
Emergency (General) 112
İstanbul Directorate of Culture and Tourism +90 212 395 44 00

🌉 Explore Istanbul

İstanbul is a city where East meets West, combining thousands of years of history with vibrant modern life.

The city offers a wide range of cultural sites and museums. Below are highlights and local experiences you shouldn’t miss.

🌟 Recommended Sites

Historical Peninsula (Sultanahmet):
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Basilica Cistern

Dolmabahçe Palace:
Ottoman-era architecture on the Bosphorus shore

Galata & Karaköy:
Cafés, art galleries and panoramic views from Galata Tower

Taksim & İstiklal Street:
The cultural and modern heart of İstanbul

Ortaköy & Bosphorus Coast:
Perfect for a waterfront walk and local street food

Eminönü:
Try the famous fish sandwich (balık ekmek) and pickle juice

Museums:
İstanbul Modern, Pera Museum, SALT Galata, Borusan Contemporary

Traditional Hamams:
Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Turkish Bath, Çemberlitaş Turkish Bath (Hamam)