We were in Istanbul for 2 nights and one day on an NCL cruise 2 years ago. We were pleasantly surprised with the folks there and felt very welcome. A very industrious vibe - storekeepers sweeping their sidewalks in the mornings, etc. We would go back, as it is one of the most historic cities on the planet.
You have to go back and explore the whole country, I bought a sensational rug in Izmir. country women did wear veils and I had a terrific laugh and a hug with one veiled woman in some small city . etc etc etc.
what made it possible was a terrific guide with a wonderful
car who did speak english. ever so much better and more interesting than a tour bus. and worth the money we spent, maybe 200 american dollars. His name was Yelzin, but that was decades ago. he even took us to some roman ruins in turkey.
cats all over the place, turks love cats. One breed, one breed loves water. go figure.
go with someone you like and have fun.
c