No other city or place on Earth seems to be so full of life and exciting as Istanbul. Filled with charm and mystery, a bridge between worlds, cultures and religions, it is the meeting spot for the most diverse travelers you will ever encounter. Istanbul is crowded, noisy and colorful, sometimes even kitsch and often overwhelming, but at the same time fascinating to its deepest details. If there is one thing to say about Istanbul as a destination is that it has a soul and this soul is definitely a vibrant one, filled with strong sensations and deep emotions. Istanbul is the city of mosques and palaces, of peddlers and cats, of mouthwatering stalls and intense colors. It is a trip through time and memories within a city that seems to have a life of its own, with millions of stories that are waiting to be uncovered. There is fascination and atonement in Istanbul, there are wonders and secrets at each step, with travelers lost in the universe of an eternal city.
Istanbul is a unique and alluring city, a fascinating destination that I have always dreamed about! The metropolis spread over two continents, eternally caught between the Occident and the Orient, has always been enveloped in an aura of mystery and magic. Istanbul is one of the largest cities in the world, with a population of almost 20 million people and tens of thousands of tourists arriving each day from the four corners of the Earth. With an amazing past that spans millennia, passing through the times of Byzantium and Constantinople, this destination has been the capital of three empires, a meeting place of cultures and religions, a prime commercial and political hub.
Today, beautiful Istanbul is definitely one of the most beloved and enchanting travel destinations, with an astonishing historical and cultural heritage, but also a fascinating natural setting. Those that set out to frantically explore this metropolis cannot avoid but fall in love with its rhythm and soul, caught in the hurricane of sounds and smells. Among luxurious palaces and imposing mosques, through bazaars and hammams, along the Bosporus or the Golden Horn, Istanbul reveals itself to patient travelers with its countless secrets and treasures. If some took a lifetime to discover this destination and others chose to call it home, a visitor interested in its most interesting and beautiful places and experiences should plan at least a four day trip.
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Transportul în Istanbul!
Although it is one of the largest cities in the world, stretching over a huge area, public transportation within Istanbul is fairly well developed and organized. Firstly, to reach the center from the Ataturk Airport, where most international flights land, it is best to take the subway. It has a station right next to the airport and depending on your destination, you can change with a tram or bus. Before anything else, I recommend you buy an IstanbulKart city transport card. You then have the possibility to charge any value onto it and pay any transportation ride, also getting decent discounts compared to buying individual tickets. The card can be bought at any IstanbulKart or BiletMatik ticket machine usually found in most stations. I costs a non-refundable fare of 130 TL and afterwards it can topped up with any amount. A trip on any metro, tram or bus line costs a few Turkish Lira each time (transfers are cheaper). In the central historical areas of Sultanahmet and Taksim, where most travel attractions are found, you will mostly be traveling on foot or with the T1 tramway. If you want to explore further or cross over to the Asian side, you can use the subway or ferries.
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4 Days in Istanbul
With a cultural and historical heritage that can compete with the greatest tourist destinations in the world, with delicious gastronomy and warm and welcoming people, with panoramas that can leave anyone speechless, Istanbul is definitely one of those places that must be visited at least once in a lifetime. Although it would take at least a week or more to see and know everything this destination has to offer, in 4 days you can visit and experience the most beautiful and interesting attractions, enough to fall in love irremediably.
DAY 1
Morning – You can make your first contact with this splendid universe that is Istanbul by visiting one of the symbols of the city, a unique monument with an incredible history. It would be advisable to already have a Museum Pass card that you can order online and receive at your hotel or buy at the most important sights in the city, although you will still have to stand in quite long queues. Especially in front of the entrance to Hagia Sophia there is a queue almost all the time, even before opening. If you already have the card, you will stand in a much shorter queue, passing only through the security check that exists at the most important attractions in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia is located right at the gates of the Topkapi Palace, dating back to the 6th century and being one of the most important and well-known architectural structures in the world.
This huge cathedral once dominated the city panorama together with the nearby Hagia Eirene. For almost 1 millennium it was the largest church in the world, with over 10 thousand workers participating in its construction. After the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it was transformed into a mosque under the name of Aya Sofya, and significant architectural changes were made to it. Today, it is open to tourists as a museum and you can discover the treasures hidden inside. In addition to the impressive exterior, inside you can primarily admire the huge dome and the immense marble columns. On the upper floor, which you reach through a narrow corridor, you will be able to discover the treasure trove of preserved or rediscovered Byzantine Christian mosaics. Hagia Sophia is open every day between 8 or 9 and 19. In the same complex you can visit the Tombs of the Sultans, with a separate entrance, but also the Carpet Museum (separate fee).
Afternoon – Just behind Hagia Sophia is the huge complex of courtyards and buildings that make up Topkapi Palace, the symbol of the Ottoman Empire for hundreds of years and one of the most fascinating places in Istanbul. The palace occupies the tip of the peninsula between the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara, known as Seraglio Point or Sarayburnu. The palace complex was built shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, being developed as a set of pavilions and gardens arranged within four inner courtyards. If you have a Museum Pass, you will avoid much of the very long lines at the entrance. However, the interior is also very crowded, so you need to be patient if you want to visit the whole complex, which will take about 2-3 hours.
The first two are included in the Museum Pass, but for the Harem you will have to pay separately if you want to enter. Either way, there are plenty of places to visit and collections to discover. The most important ones include the palace kitchens, the collection of weapons and armor, the clock museum, the collection of ceramics and silverware, the imperial costumes, but perhaps most of all the collection of holy objects of Islam, a real place of pilgrimage for Muslims. In addition to all this, there are many other pavilions, fountains, gardens and interesting places. In the first courtyard of the palace, you can also enter the Hagia Eirene to admire the huge and austere interior. With a history of millennia, this church is said to have been the first Christian place of worship in Istanbul, and today it preserves unique architectural features.
Right next to the Topkapi Palace, part of the same building complex, you can also visit the Istanbul Archaeology Museum, divided into three locations with different themes. The largest building houses the Archaeology Museum, where you can discover extremely interesting and valuable collections and exhibits. Among these are the collection of sarcophagi discovered in Sidon, of which the Sarcophagus of Alexander stands out, with the remains of a lesser-known king but with scenes from the battles of Alexander the Great. Another hall contains a collection of statues discovered in archaeological sites in Anatolia. In the same courtyard there are two other smaller buildings that you can enter, the first housing the Museum of the Ancient East, which contains exhibits from the Middle East that was once part of the Ottoman Empire, and the second is represented by the Tiled Pavilion, a superb building dating from 1472 and housing an impressive collection of ceramics. The museum is open every day except Monday, between 9 am and 4 pm.
Evening – Perhaps the most fitting way to end your first day in Istanbul is with an evening cruise with dinner included. Although there is also an option to explore the splendid Bosphorus Strait, this is more of a day trip. There are plenty of private cruises that offer a pleasant evening and a romantic dinner (some with traditional artistic programs), always with the panorama of Istanbul in the background.
DAY 2
Morning – Built over a millennium after the magnificent Hagia Sophia, from which it is separated by a charming park, another symbol of the city of Istanbul is the Sultanahmet Mosque or the Blue Mosque, as it is known to foreign tourists. This masterpiece of Ottoman architecture profoundly changed the face of the peninsula. It was built between 1609 and 1616 for Sultan Ahmed I, being the first mosque with six minarets. The exterior is truly impressive, with the semi-domes leading the gaze to the main dome and the six harmonious minarets creating an unforgettable image. The main entrance is from the Hippodrome, although most visitors enter through the side garden from Hagia Sophia. The inner courtyard is equally beautiful, surrounded by a colonnaded corridor and in the center of which is the fountain for the Islamic ritual of purification.
The interior of the mosque, although austere according to the Islamic religion, impresses especially with the blue color of the Iznik mosaics that cover the walls and the huge columns. Another special aspect is given by the over 250 stained glass windows that create a special atmosphere at different times of the day. Other elements of interest for visitors are the huge chandeliers hanging extremely low. Entrance to the Blue Mosque is free, as in most other important mosques in Istanbul, but you must respect the daily prayer times and take off your shoes at the entrance. Near the mosque you can also visit the Mosaic Museum of the Grand Palace, hosted by the Arasta Bazaar and presenting superb examples of ancient mosaics, some perfectly preserved and others reconstructed.
The next visit takes you near Hagia Sophia, but on the way you can take a look at the area of the Ancient Hippodrome, an elegant square today, decorated with interesting monuments (the Egyptian Obelisk, the Column of Constantine or the Serpent Column brought from Delphi). Continuing the walk through the gardens that separate the two mosques, you will reach the entrance to the Basilica Cistern, a marvel of ancient Byzantine engineering. A true underground palace, the water cistern occupies a huge space, being the most unusual tourist attraction in Istanbul. Along a route created among the columns and arches that create a mysterious atmosphere, you will discover an ancient wonder, perfectly preserved for millennia in the city’s underground and rediscovered only recently.
Afternoon – After having lunch in one of the restaurants that dot the area near the Sultanahmet tram station, take a stroll along Divan Yolu Boulevard, one of the most important roads of the peninsula since Roman times. It is flanked by interesting monuments, starting with the magnificent Cemberlitas Column or Column of Constantine, with a long and turbulent history. It has survived almost 2 millennia, going through earthquakes and fires, and still remains the largest porphyry column in the world. Nearby are several smaller mosques that are worth discovering if you have time. A little further, you will reach a large square that is almost always crowded, especially with students from Istanbul University. The square, which is located on the site of an important ancient forum, is called Beyazit and includes the Beyazit Mosque, built between 1501 and 1506 for Sultan Bayezid II. It is worth a visit, being one of the oldest classical mosques in Istanbul, built after the Hagia Sophia model.
One of the most beautiful and largest mosques in the city is found following a road from Beyazit Square to the Golden Horn. The majestic silhouette of the Suleymaniye Mosque is visible from almost anywhere, dominating the panorama. This is the work of the most famous architect of the Ottoman Empire, Mimar Sinan, and is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the city. It was built for Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent for the anniversary of the 30th year of his reign. Impressive both on the outside and inside, Suleymaniye is definitely on the list of attractions to admire in Istanbul. From here, head down to the shores of the Golden Horn, where you’ll stop to admire the Rustem Pasha Mosque, also built by Mimar Sinan and adorned with superb mosaics that rival those in the Blue Mosque, if not more impressive in such a small mosque. Near Eminonu and Galata Bridge, you should also visit the Egyptian Bazaar or Spice Market. A gorgeous covered market, perfectly renovated and stocked with the most incredible variety of spices and sweets, you’ll discover part of the commercial tradition of this city. You must try the Turkish delight with its different flavors and bright colors.
Evening – On the second evening of your trip to Istanbul, you can immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a unique and amazing show. The mystical ritual of the Whirling Dervish order is now open to tourists, who can attend an hour-long Sema ceremony, an incredible experience. There are several places that offer such shows, one being Hodjapasha, near Hagia Sophia. Optionally, end the evening by visiting one of the many places that offer the opportunity to try the flavors of hookah.
ZIUA 3
Morning – Start your third day in fascinating Istanbul near Eminonu, an area always crowded with people rushing about their daily routine and tourists lost in the madness of aromas and sounds. First admire the New Mosque (Yeni Camii), begun by the mother of Sultan Mehmed III in 1597 and completed almost 70 years later by the mother of Sultan Mehmed IV. It is one of the city’s monumental mosques, truly impressive being the floral mosaics inside and other architectural elements. One of the most famous images of the city is the Galata Bridge, almost always occupied by hundreds of fishermen who cast their lines on both sides and at any time. Under the bridge, there are numerous restaurants with fish specialties, and on both sides there are crowded pontoons from where transport boats are always leaving and arriving.
After crossing the bridge towards Beyoglu, climb the hill in front following the silhouette of the Galata Tower or take the funicular to the top. The first important landmark in this area is the Galata Tower, which dates back to the 14th century, being built by the Genoese who occupied this area in the past. For a while, the tower served as a prison, but also as a lighthouse in the late 20th century, currently being a tourist attraction. If you want a superb 360-degree panorama, you can climb to the top of the tower, but there is almost always a long queue. From the tower, look for the beginning of the famous Istiklal Avenue, perhaps the most elegant and interesting in Istanbul, flanked by famous shops, historic hotels, mosques and churches.
One of the most attractive elements of the avenue is the fact that it is closed to traffic, except for the historic red tram that crosses the street from one end to the other several times an hour. If you can find a place to sit among the crowds of people that always animate the boulevard, you can admire some of the most interesting sights along it or nearby, including the Church of St. Peter and Paul, Pera Palace, the Cathedral of St. Anthony of Padua, the Aga Mosque and others. The end of the journey is in the famous Taksim Square, less a tourist attraction and more a meeting place for demonstrations of all kinds. It is also one of the busiest intersections in the city.
Afternoon – If you go down from Taksim Square on Inonu Boulevard towards the sea, you will arrive near the Beşiktaş football team stadium, but also very close to the entrance to Dolmabahce Palace, a destination that I recommend to all travelers arriving in Istanbul. The entrance is through the park in front, and nearby you can admire a magnificent clock tower from the end of the 19th century. You have to wait at the ticket office, as this palace is not included in the Museum Pass. There are several attractions that you can visit together or separately, there are tickets for the Harem and other smaller sights. If you don’t have much time, at least take the palace tour because it’s worth it (you can rent an audio guide for free). The palace is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, except Monday.
The first elements that impress about this charming palace are the gardens and the exterior architecture. The somewhat unusual Baroque style and the location on the shores of the Bosphorus, far from the old Topkapi Palace, denote the inclination of the 19th-century sultans towards the West. If the old palace is a collection of separate buildings with various purposes, Dolmabahce appears as a huge palace with homogeneous architecture, although the separation of public spaces from those dedicated to the private life of the sultans continues. The tour of the rooms and halls of the palace will reveal elements of dazzling luxury and refinement in places, especially in terms of the value and provenance of the objects used (furniture, chandeliers, ceramics, paintings, carpets, etc.). The Crystal Staircase, the Sultan’s Chambers, but also the huge Ceremonial Hall, the last one you will visit before exiting to the courtyard facing the Bosphorus, are particularly impressive. The gardens add to the fascinating atmosphere of the entire complex, with a superb panorama of the sea beyond the large white gates.
Evening – Once you leave Dolmabahce Palace, take the T1 tram from the nearby Kabatas station and get off after crossing the Galata Bridge. Then from the bus station next to the bridge, find a bus going towards Eyup, on the shores of the Golden Horn. One of the most beautiful panoramas of the city, especially at sunset, is from Pierre Loti Hill, where you can either walk or take the cable car to the small terrace café. You will discover an unforgettable image of the Golden Horn, with the distinctive silhouettes of the mosques and the three bridges connecting the shores of the bay. Pierre Loti was a French writer who fell in love and wrote about Istanbul. You can walk down the hill, the path being flanked by an old Ottoman cemetery.
DAY 4
Morning – Perhaps the most authentic cultural experience in Istanbul can be found in the famous Grand Bazaar, which has become a symbol of the city and its commercial spirit over time. The bazaar is no longer just a place where you can buy an amazing variety of products, it is a tourist attraction with its specific atmosphere. Start your last day in Istanbul with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, before the crowds of tourists besiege this miniature universe. Before entering and getting lost in this huge labyrinth, admire the Nuruosmaniye Mosque, located right next to one of the main entrances. Among the most beautiful mosques in the city, recently renovated, it is the first in Istanbul built in the European Baroque style. It is worth going inside for a few minutes to admire the spacious space and the beautiful stained glass windows.
You need at least 2-3 hours to explore the covered streets and hidden corridors of the Grand Bazaar, and no matter how hard you try to find your way around, it’s best to wander until you get tired or find what you’re looking for. Dating back to 1461, Istanbul’s bazaar is one of the oldest and largest in the world, with nearly 5,000 shops packed into its covered alleys. Although the main thoroughfares display the same goods that tourists are looking for (souvenirs, sweets, tea, spices, gold, ceramics, textiles), many of the secluded alleys still offer a sense of the old world atmosphere of this place, with old inns and artisans preparing products for sale. Here and there you’ll discover little secrets and treasures from bygone times, and everywhere you’re assaulted by vibrant aromas and colors, the calls of vendors, and the extreme diversity of tourists lost in the bazaar.
Afternoon – There is still so much to see and visit in Istanbul and the last day in this amazing city is coming to an end. After exploring the fascinating bazaar, you can choose your next destination according to your time and preferences. First, you can take the metro to Uskudar, on the Asian side of the city. From here, you can start exploring a lesser-known territory visited by tourists attracted by the mirage and splendor of the European side. However, there are numerous tourist attractions worth discovering on the Asian side of Istanbul as well. Right at the exit of the Uskudar metro station you can admire some very interesting mosques, starting with the Yeni Valide Mosque, built by Sultan Ahmed III for his mother in 1710. It has some interesting architectural elements, including a beautiful purification fountain and an elegant courtyard. Nearby is another mosque known as the Mihrimah Mosque or Iskele, built for the daughter of Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent in 1548 by the famous architect Mimar Sinan.
Continuing south along the cliff, you will inevitably come across the magnificent Maiden Tower, located on a cliff a few dozen meters into the sea and dating from the 19th century, but occupying the site of former ancient fortresses. Surrounded by enchanting legends, the tower creates an incredible image with the Sultanahmet peninsula and the Golden Horn in the background, especially at sunrise and sunset. The Maiden Tower houses a restaurant and a café, and is accessible by boat from the nearby pontoon. In Uskudar and the surrounding areas there are other interesting mosques such as the Rum Mehmed Pasha Mosque, the Ayazma Mosque, the Atik Valide Mosque and others, as well as many streets that retain their old-world charm, largely lost in the European area. You can explore the famous and elegant Bagdat Street, famous for its designer shops and refined restaurants.
Alternatively, if you want a foray into the city’s more distant past, when it was still called Constantinople, take a bus to the Chora Church (Kariye Mosque), one of the most fascinating monuments in Istanbul. Full of mosaics and frescoes of inestimable value and beauty, this place of worship has survived since the 11th century, although there were also older churches on this site. Although the Chora Church is an interesting Byzantine building on the outside, the real treasures are found inside, today converted into a museum. It is a wonder how so many beautiful scenes on the church walls survived for hundreds of years, even under the Ottoman conquest. You can continue exploring this extraordinary area which holds numerous other churches and ruins, as well as the old city walls.
Evening – For your last evening in Istanbul and for an unforgettable memory of this experience, you have the choice between admiring one of the most magnificent panoramas of the city from Camlica Hill on the Asian side, or an evening spent in a traditional Turkish hamam. Camlica Hill offers an unforgettable experience, an extensive panorama of the city, absolutely charming especially at sunset. It is also one of the favorite promenade destinations of the city’s residents, being transformed into a pleasant park, with historic teahouses, restaurants and terraces. On the other hand, visiting a historic hamam in Istanbul is not only a perfect method of relaxation, being above all an authentic cultural experience, where you will discover the long tradition of Turkish baths.
Accommodation Options in Istanbul
9.4 rating from 2,724 reviews!
One of the most prestigious and appreciated hotels in the heart of Sultanahmet, this superb hotel features superior rooms with beautiful design, great restaurant, wellness center!
9.0 rating from 92 reviews!
One of the more luxurious and unique hotels in Istanbul, this is part of the Autograph Collection, featuring stupendous features and perfect services. It has amazing restaurant, bar, spa!
9.2 rating from 1.455 reviews!
Located just 5 minutes from the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, this prestigious hotel features rooms with contemporary decor and high end amenities, as well as a restaurant, spa and more!
9.4 rating from 302 reviews!
Situated close to the Galata Tower, this stunning five star experience offers magnificent lodging, a luxurious spa and wellness center, as well as an established restaurant!
9.2 rating from 3.056 reviews!
Located within walking distance of most attractions in the Sultanahmet area, this affordable hotel has excellent reviews and offers accommodation in comfortable rooms!
9.1 rating from 2.703 reviews!
Located in the heart of the Sultanahmet Quarter, just 7 min from Hagia Sophia, this exceptional hotel offers spacious rooms with all amenities, breakfast and outdoor seating area!
Recommended Restaurants in Istanbul
- Deraliye Ottoman Palace (Ticarethane Sokak, 10) – Luxury restaurant located in the heart of the old city, offering high-class cuisine inspired by the cuisine of the sultans of the past, with modern touches.
- Beyti Restaurant (Orman Caddesi, 8) – One of the most appreciated grill and meat-based restaurants, it is ranked among the classy venues in Istanbul. It is located in the modern part of the city.
- Matbah Ottoman Palace (Caferiye Sokak, 6/1) – Located right next to Hagia Sophia, the luxury restaurant offers an excellent menu, inspired by traditional Ottoman dishes and other influences, in an elegant atmosphere.
- Olive Anatolian Restaurant (Ebusuud Cad. 18) – Extremely well-regarded restaurant, located close to the central area and with a superb panorama of the city. It offers delicious traditional dishes and a very warm atmosphere.
- Old Ottoman Cafe & Restaurant (Cagaloglu Hamam Sokak, 17) – Restaurant located near the main attractions of Istanbul, it is appreciated for its culinary dishes, but also for the pleasant atmosphere.
- Old House Restaurant (Cankurtaran Mah. Utangac Sokak, 23A) – Recommended especially for the familiar and intimate atmosphere, but also for the delicious culinary dishes. It is located near the Blue Mosque.
Other Activities in Istanbul
Shopping – Perhaps the most appreciated and common activity when visiting Istanbul, apart from visiting the huge cultural heritage. Part of this traditional heritage are the markets or bazaars of Istanbul, a true miniature universe, where you can discover thousands of products and an atmosphere that is worth experiencing even if you do not buy. The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar are the most famous and popular shopping destinations in Istanbul, especially if you are looking for bargains or traditional products. If you are good at bargaining, you can find an extreme variety of clothes, carpets, ceramics, lamps, sweets, spices, tea, gold and jewelry, but also much more. It is not advisable to pay the first price asked, because almost all sellers expect you to negotiate more or less. There are also narrow streets full of shops like those in the bazaar, where you can find almost the same goods. On the other hand, there are also elegant streets with shops of well-known brands, the most popular being Istiklal and Bagdat. Istanbul also has some of the largest malls, with hundreds of different stores.
Entertainment – Istanbul is a vibrant city that can rival and even surpass the major European capitals in terms of entertainment scene, with a multitude of diverse venues and events. In addition to music or theater festivals, Istanbul has numerous cinemas and a famous film festival. You can spend incendiary evenings in the many clubs and terraces that dot the city, especially in the Beyoglu and Ortakoy areas. Specific to this metropolis, however, are the belly dance shows with oriental music, while enjoying a hookah. Among the most important cultural events are the Istanbul Music Festival (June – classical music), the Istanbul Jazz Festival (July – jazz and others), the Istanbul Biennial (September in odd years), the International Film Festival (March-April), the Tulip Festival (April) and others.
Gastronomy – Istanbul is a city of diversity and contrasts, and this can also be seen in the extreme variety of gastronomy. Even though the base is made up of traditional Turkish cuisine, with specific dishes, you will discover that the city also offers other flavors, among which the Mediterranean, Italian, Japanese, Greek and others stand out. There are a lot of dishes that you must try in Istanbul, starting with those present on the streets, with various kebab recipes and other meat dishes, but also the sweets that will tempt you in dozens of shapes and colors in the windows (baclava, rahat, etc.). For a traditional gastronomic experience, look for truly authentic restaurants that also offer other Turkish dishes that are less known to tourists. And if you want to reduce the effect of the spices that are found in almost all Turkish dishes, try traditional drinks, starting with ayran, but also Turkish tea or coffee.
Hammam – The Turkish bath is one of the traditional aspects of Turkish, Ottoman and, more broadly, even Islamic culture. Over time, they have also spread to Western Europe under the generic name of Turkish baths, and Istanbul is perhaps among the most recommended destinations if you want to try this experience. There are a lot of hammams throughout the city, some true historical monuments that have been operating for hundreds of years. Before visiting a hammam in Istanbul, you should know some characteristics and rules of these locations. First of all, each hammam has two distinct spaces for women and men. There are also certain rituals and steps that you must follow when entering a hammam, starting with the order of operations and continuing with etiquette towards employees and other visitors.
Useful Tourist Information for Istanbul
First of all, it should be noted that Istanbul is at least as safe as any other major European capital. Although there have been attacks here in the past, as well as less peaceful political demonstrations, Istanbul is currently a safe destination for tourists. You will find that there are very strictly organized security measures in the city, with security filters at all major tourist attractions, and for the entire trip to Istanbul I did not feel a single moment of insecurity, quite the opposite… Beyond this, there are a few things that can make your visit to Istanbul much more enjoyable and easier. The first is definitely IstanbulKart, the travel card that you load once and then you can pay for all your trips by public transport.
The second is the Museum Pass, the card that gives you free entry and skips the lines at some of the most important museums in Istanbul, along with other discounts and special offers. The card can be purchased online or at several major tourist attractions, and if you visit Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and 2-3 other smaller museums, you will definitely exceed its cost. Istanbul is a very crowded city, with many millions of inhabitants plus hundreds of thousands of other tourists who want to see the same things as you, so almost the entire historical center is constantly under siege by crowds. Furthermore, the streets are also very crowded, and traffic can be quite chaotic in Istanbul, so you have to be very careful. It seems that traffic lights and pedestrian crossings are only informative for drivers. One last tip has to do with shopping in Istanbul. Even though all guidebooks urge you to negotiate everything, this practice is not always indicated or well received. If in the bazaar, most sellers expect you to negotiate prices, this is not a reason to offend them with ridiculous prices, and in normal stores this practice is less often accepted.
Day Trips from Istanbul
Bosphorus Cruise – One of the most enjoyable excursions in Istanbul is a Bosphorus cruise, crossing this mythical strait between continents and admiring centuries of history or the natural beauties on both shores. Although there are numerous cruise offers to choose from, the most affordable is operated by the public ferry company Şehir Hatlari and departs from the Eminonu pier. The cruise ship departs daily at around 10:30 and the whole experience lasts about 6 hours. After traveling almost the entire length of the Bosphorus, the ship stops for a few hours in the village of Anadolu Kavagi, during which you can discover this charming fishing village. In addition to the restaurants in the port offering traditional fish dishes, you can climb up to the ruins of Yoros Castle, from where you will discover a splendid panorama of the last bridge over the Bosphorus, near the meeting with the Black Sea. Along the strait, you can admire a lot of exceptional places, the European and Asian coasts being full of holiday villages with historic villas, medieval castles and numerous other attractions. More details HERE!
Princes’ Islands – Some of the most pleasant escapes from the human anthill of Istanbul are found a short distance away in the Sea of Marmara, in the form of an archipelago of small islands. These are known as the Princes’ Islands or simply the Islands (Adalar in Turkish) and comprise four larger islands that can be visited on cruises, each presenting interesting aspects and a relaxed and charming ambiance. Cruise ships depart from Kabatas, Bostanci, Kartal or Maltepe in Istanbul and usually stop at the main islands: Kinaliada, Burgazada, Heybeliada and Buyukada. The names of the islands come from the past, when princes and other royal personalities were exiled there during the Byzantine Empire, and later the relatives of the sultans were also exiled to these islands. Today, they represent interesting destinations, in addition to the complete lack of motorized means of transport, presenting a specific architecture, with numerous historic villas and mansions, but also with other interesting attractions. These include churches and monasteries, museums and other places of historical interest. More details HERE!
Edirne – One of the most beautiful cities near Istanbul, Edirne has a much brighter past than its present. You can reach Edirne by bus or train, and the journey takes around 2 and a half hours. Although the destination is famous especially for the Selimiye Mosque, there are other interesting sights to visit. Considered the most impressive and largest mosque complex in Turkey, Selimiye is the pinnacle of Ottoman religious architecture, but also the supreme masterpiece of the famous architect Mimar Sinan. The superb complex includes a series of annexed buildings, one of which currently houses the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, which you can visit. Among the interesting features of the Selimiye Mosque, the central dome, the fountain in the courtyard, the sultan’s lodge, and others are especially impressive. The town also offers other sights worth admiring, including several very beautiful mosques.
Iznik – There are few traces of the past glory of the small town of Iznik, located on the shores of a lake, about 90 km from Istanbul. The former capital of the Byzantine Empire when it was called Nicaea, it played an important role in the history of Christianity. However, the city’s most recent period of prosperity coincided with the period of maximum development and fame due to the ceramic industry, especially the exceptional mosaics used in the construction of many famous mosques in Istanbul and other parts of the Ottoman Empire. Today, you can visit Iznik to discover the history and traditional culture, visiting the several interesting attractions. These include, among others, the Green Mosque, the Hagia Sophia Church, the Archaeological Museum or the City Walls.