The ESVS 39th Annual Meeting will be held from 23rd to 26th of September, 2025 in Istanbul, Türkiye.
Istanbul, a city that bridges two continents, Europe and Asia, is a melting pot of cultures, history, and modernity. As the former capital of three great empires—Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman—it is a city where ancient traditions and modern innovations harmoniously blend.
With its stunning skyline, historical monuments and its bustling streets lined with markets, restaurants, and galleries, Istanbul offers a unique atmosphere where the past and present come together. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, rich history, and warm hospitality make it one of the most captivating destinations in the world.
Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
Visa: Nationals from many countries do not need a visa to visit Türkiye for short-term tourism or business purposes. Türkiye has agreements with various countries that allow their citizens to enter Türkiye without a visa for stays typically ranging from 30 to 90 days within a 180-day period. At present, nationals from 78 countries and territories can travel to Türkiye for tourism or business purposes without needing to obtain a visa beforehand. Additionally, passport holders from 40 countries and territories can apply for an e-Visa online for a small fee prior to their arrival.
Getting to Istanbul
Istanbul is a major international hub, easily accessible by air, train, and road, making it convenient for attendees from all around the world.
By Air
Istanbul is served by two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW).
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Istanbul Airport (IST): Located on the European side of the city, IST is one of the busiest airports in the world and offers direct flights from major cities across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and the Middle East. The airport is approximately 40 kilometers from the city center, with various transportation options including taxis, airport shuttles, and public buses available.
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Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW): Situated on the Asian side, SAW also handles numerous international flights, particularly from European and Middle Eastern destinations. The airport is about 50 kilometers from the city center, with easy access via taxis, shuttle buses, and public transportation.
By Road
Istanbul is well-connected by an extensive network of highways. Driving to Istanbul offers a scenic journey, especially for those coming from neighboring countries in Europe or Asia. The city is accessible via several major roads, including the E80 (part of the international E-road network), which connects Istanbul to European cities such as Bucharest, Belgrade, and Sofia. There are numerous parking facilities available throughout the city, and car rental services are widely available.
By Rail
Istanbul is connected to the European rail network via international trains arriving at Halkalı Railway Station. The Marmaray train line connects Halkalı on the European side to Gebze on the Asian side, passing under the Bosphorus Strait, making travel across the city seamless. For those traveling from Europe, there are routes passing through key cities like Sofia and Belgrade.
Other key information
› Time
Istanbul operates on Turkey Time (TRT), which is UTC+03:00 all year round. Unlike some other regions, Turkey does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains consistent throughout the year.
› Credit Cards
Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted in most shops, hotels, and restaurants across Istanbul. You will also find ATMs (cash dispensers) readily available throughout the city, allowing easy access to cash.
› Safety
Istanbul is generally considered safe for tourists and visitors, with well-patrolled areas and a strong police presence, especially in tourist districts. As with any major city, it’s advisable to remain vigilant and follow common safety practices, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings.
› Electrical Appliances
The voltage in Turkey is 220-240 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz. Electrical sockets are of the European standard with two round pins. Visitors from countries with different plug types should bring an appropriate adapter.
› Mobile Networks
European mobile phones will generally work seamlessly in Istanbul, as Turkey uses GSM networks that are compatible with most European mobile standards. However, roaming charges may apply depending on your service provider, so it’s advisable to check with your carrier before traveling to understand any potential costs and ensure your phone is set up for international roaming.
For those planning a longer stay or requiring extensive mobile data, purchasing an e-SIM or local SIM card might be more cost-effective. Major Turkish mobile operators like Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, and Türk Telekom offer prepaid SIM cards with a variety of data packages. These options can be easily purchased at the airport, mobile shops, or convenience stores throughout the city, while e-SIMs can be activated directly on compatible devices, providing even greater convenience. Please check the compatibility of your phone with the e-SIM option prior to purchasing it
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public spaces, providing a convenient option for staying connected without relying heavily on mobile data.
ESVS 39th Annual Meeting Venue – Istanbul Congress Center
The Istanbul Congress Center (ICC) is a premier international destination for congresses and events, known for its world-class technological infrastructure, experienced staff, and high-quality service. Located in the heart of Istanbul, the ICC is a versatile venue that can accommodate a wide range of events, from national and international congresses to cultural and professional gatherings.
The ICC is designed to host social, cultural, and professional events of all kinds, including congresses, conferences, symposiums, corporate meetings, fairs, exhibitions, concerts, musicals, and theater and movie premieres. With its modern facilities and central location, the Istanbul Congress Center offers an ideal setting for any event, providing visitors with easy access to the vibrant cultural and historical offerings of Istanbul.
