bettyo70

Hi Everyone,

My husband and I are travelling to Istanbul: he has an Italian Passport, and I have a U.S. one.

Does this mean I need a Visa to enter, and he does not?

Or are we both suppose to get a Visa for Turkey because we're travelling together as a family from the U.S.?

Very confused. Thanks!

Fra_Diavolo

Your husband does not need a visa.

You do.

Cathinjoetown

I believe you have to do this:

"Visa Requirements. American citizens traveling to Turkey on U.S. passports must obtain a visa. Currently, holders of all types of passports can purchase a 90-day sticker visa at the port of entry for $20 cash if they are traveling to Turkey as tourists."

And your husband doesn't need a visa:

"Italy: Ordinary and official passport holders are exempt from visa for their travels up to 90 days.
Visa Information For Foreigners / Rep. of Turkey Ministry of Foreign ...
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (.gov) › tr ›"

Croesus

They've been phasing out the visa on arrival, so get an e-visa from the Turkish government website - https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/

hetismij2

You need an e-visa. There are no visas on arrival anymore.
It is a painless process and works well.

Odin

You can get a visa on arrival as there are evisa kiosks at the airport, but there is no reason to do so, much better to get it in advance online.

bettyo70

Thank you, Everyone! I went ahead and purchased my e-Visa and told my Italian husband not to bother. P.S. If any of you had a 12-hour layover in Istanbul, where would you go?

We've never been to Istanbul and obviously don't want to exhaust ourselves. But at the same time, we would love to see some of the city while we're there.

Thanks for any advice you can give!

P.S. We're staying at the WOW Hotel near the airport.

Fra_Diavolo

I'd go to Aya Sophia before Erdogen the A$$hole (for so shall he be known for all time, by the will of the Prophet) turns it into a mosque again and covers up the surviving mosaics. The cisterns, nearby, are also interesting. Then the Blue Mosque, and you're pretty much done for the day. Alternatively you could do Tokapi Palace and maybe the Grand Bazaar or Spice Market. Gaze over the Golden Horn.

If you're lucky, perhaps oc will show up with a restaurant recommendation.

otherchelebi

Fra Diavola forced my hand :

"Beyti Restaurant" at Florya, not far from the airport and your hotel has the best meats. Their lamb chops are truly exceptional.
A nice location with very good service. Check calling cards, letters and presents from visiting past American, Chinese and other presidents and world and industry leaders, as well as photographs.

Prices on the high side for Turkey but better than most steak restaurants in the United States.

bilboburgler

if he covers up the mosaics he needs to get over to Damascus and see those left in the second most important mosque under Islam

bettyo70

Fra, other and bilbo: Thank you so much!

Fra: That sounds amazing!

Foodwise, unfortunately I'm not a lamb fan... but I'm sure I'll find great food there. Maybe look for something closer to Aya Sophia or The Blue Mosque?

Cheers!