Description
Istanbul is a fascinating city that straddles Europe and Asia, and it is known for its ancient monuments, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.
Istanbul is the heart of Turkey. A city where you can breathe freely. A place of power, inspiration, and romance. You fall in love with this city at first sight.
The best time to visit Istanbul is Mid-spring, in April and May, and fall, from September to October. These months are considered to be perfect for long walking tours and sightseeing.
Things to Do in Istanbul
• Istiklal Avenue: Stroll along this bustling pedestrian street in the heart of Istanbul, lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and historic buildings. It’s a vibrant hub of activity day and night.
• Galata Tower: It’s an old tower located in the heart of Istanbul and it offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the Bosphorus. It’s a great spot to capture memorable photos.
• Hagia Sophia: Visit this iconic structure that was originally built as a church, then converted into a mosque, and now serves as a museum. Marvel at its magnificent architecture and interior.
• Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): The iconic Blue Mosque is one of the most visited landmarks in Istanbul. It showcases Islamic architecture, and it is famous for its distinctive blue tiles.
• Topkapi Palace: Explore the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, which showcases Ottoman architecture, beautiful courtyards, and exhibits including imperial treasures, manuscripts, and artifacts.
• Suleymaniye Mosque: Explore this magnificent mosque, the largest in Istanbul, known for its impressive dome, beautiful courtyard, and serene atmosphere.
• Grand Bazaar: Visit the largest and oldest covered market of Istanbul with more than 4,000 shops selling everything from jewelry, textiles, spices, and more.
• Dolmabahce Palace: Visit this opulent palace that served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. Admire its grandeur, exquisite interiors, and stunning waterfront location.
• Bosphorus Cruise: Take a boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, which divides Istanbul into its European and Asian sides. Enjoy panoramic views of the city, historic landmarks, and elegant waterfront mansions.
• Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar): Experience the scents and flavors of Istanbul at this market, known for its colorful spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, nuts, teas, and other culinary delights.
• Basilica Cistern: Descend into this ancient underground cistern featuring stunning columns and atmospheric lighting. It’s a unique and tranquil spot to explore in the heart of Istanbul.
• Princes’ Island: You can take a ferry from Istanbul to visit the Princes’ Island which is a peaceful retreat with no motorized vehicles and plenty of serene cafes and beaches.
Tips
Here are some TIPS that you should consider while traveling to Istanbul:
• It is recommended to exchange your currency from authorized exchange offices with proper rates rather than exchanging from street vendors or strangers.
• Istanbul’s traffic can be chaotic, so it is best to use public transport such as the metro, tram, and ferry to save time and avoid traffic.
• Istanbul is known for its bazaars and street markets, and it is common for vendors to inflate prices. So, bargaining is the norm, and it is a chance to get a good deal.
• As with any tourist destination, Istanbul has some scams, such as overpriced taxis, fake tours, and unjustified entrance fees. So, it is always better to do proper research before buying tickets or taking tours.
• Istanbul has a rich culinary culture with some delicious dishes. Therefore, it is recommended to try local food and drinks, such as Turkish kebab, baklava, Turkish delight, and tea.
• Istanbul people are welcoming and respected in their culture. However, it is essential to be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as taking off shoes before entering mosques and being quiet during prayer times.
• Istanbul is a conservative city, so it is recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and other religious places.
