Travel Istanbul: Where to Visit
Bosphorus Cruise
To do justice to your Istanbul tour, a Bosphorus cruise ride is quintessential as it calls up for an amazing session infused with nature, history and serene views. The cruise ride allows you to explore the heritage zones of the city lined along the coast embedded with picture-perfect sceneries in between. So, to make up a maximum of your 48 hours, do invest a few hours in here.
View this post on Instagram
Golden Horn Tour
If we need to declare the crown jewel of Istanbul itinerary the Golden horn is certainly the foremost contender. This striking nook in the sea opening to the Bosphorus River is a perfect blend of heritage and nature’s bliss. It allows you a decent drool over the slaying landmarks like the Pierre Lotte Hill and the Galata Bridge and amps up your experience in Istanbul.
View this post on Instagram
Sultanahmet Mosque or Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Popularly known as the Blue Mosque for the blue tiles adorning the walls of its interior, the mosque has a blend of architectural styles, including features of Mimar Sanan’s classic Islamic style and Hagia Sophia’s timeliness Byzantine architecture. The mosque still functions as a religious site, so the entrance is free, although you might have to brave some long queues to enter it due to its popularity. The panels of calligraphy on the inside of the Sultanahmet Mosque Dome depict verses from the Qur’an and the names of important caliphs.
Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, one of Europe’s most cherished landmarks, was initially a Christian patriarchal basilica, later a predominant mosque of the Ottoman Empire, and now has found a new purpose as one of the world’s most popular museums. The circular pattern in the floor marks the Omphalos, where Byzantine emperors were crowned. The Imperial Gate was reserved for the entrance of the emperor and his family, and you’ll even get a chance to see one of the church’s magnificent Byzantine mosaics. There’s certainly a lot to see inside the Hagia Sophia because of its rich encounter with eras of different cultures throughout history.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace, currently a large museum, used to serve as the Ottoman sultan’s main residence and administrative headquarters in the 15th century. The architecture of the palace is a unique blend of Islamic features and Neo-classical styling. The entrance fee only provides you with the opportunity to walk around the palace grounds, but if you want to learn about the place from the inside, rent an audio guide at the entrance as well. The size and intricacy of the palace are revealed by the scale-models displayed. You can even visit some of the beautifully designed rooms inside the palace – and we recommend you to do so.
Grand Bazaar
Not your typical flea market, Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest marketplace in Istanbul and has over 3,000 shops. The tiny shops are stacked high with scarves, textiles, spices, and everything that you can possibly ask for while shopping for souvenirs to take back home. Don’t forget to bargain with the shopkeepers as they purposefully start off with high prices, expecting the customer to haggle.
Travel Istanbul: Where to Eat
Gulhane Sark Sofrasi
The restaurant serves delicious food and big portions of them, too. Make sure you get to try the balloon bread with halloumi and hummus, followed by your favorite selection of kebabs.
Sahrap
Sahrap Pera was opened by the celebrity chef Sahrap Soysal, and the restaurant really puts your decision-making skills to test as you’ll find an extended menu with lots of options for Turkish cuisine.
Ministry of Coffee
You should definitely visit MOC if you’re a coffee lover. This specialty coffee shop’s team uses elaborate apparatus like siphons and cold brew dip systems, and even infuse coffee with zesty citrus fruits and other exotic ingredients to provide customers with an unforgettable caffeine experience. Also, MOC Istanbul offers chocolate croissants, brought in straight from France.
Street Food
Istanbul is big on street food. You’ll find little red carts on every corner, selling roasted chestnuts and simit – a Turkish bread similar to a bagel which you can eat plain or with spreads like Nutella. As you’ll quite often be on the run if you’re staying in Istanbul for a little while, street food will be a great option, while being delicious and easy on the pocket as well.
Travel Istanbul: Where to Stay
The Byzantium Hotel
Be ready to dwell in a classic luxury by choosing this premium hotel in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet town. The hotel features all necessary facilities like a spa, restaurant, bar, etc.
View this post on Instagram
Ramada Grand Bazaar
Featuring all elements of a high-class hotel, the Ramada Grand Bazaar is among the top picks in Istanbul. Given to its plush facilities like in-room bar, spa, sauna, gym, etc. This place can level up your vacation.
View this post on Instagram
The Peak Hotel
This amazing stay zone of Istanbul is extra special as along with top-notch facilities, its location allows you access to the city’s many prime locations. Decked up with all crucial samples of a decent stay, this hotel is worth trying.
View this post on Instagram
Crowne Plaza Old City
If plushness and royalty had some other name in Istanbul’s hotel industry then it definitely would be the Crowne plaza. This 5-star accommodation hosts every trait of an avant-garde hotel and is worthy enough to make your stay remarkable.
View this post on Instagram
Sura Design Hotel
If you’re planning to stay in a hotel closest to the main sights, Sura Design Hotel is just the place. Fabulously decorated and modern, the hotel is located in the heart of the old town. The turquoise and gold rooms are spotless, clean and comfortable. You might even get lucky and get a room with a balcony overlooking the landscaped gardens.
W Hotel Istanbul
This trendy hotel is located in the Akaretker district in Besiktas, surrounded by cafes and art galleries. Many of their rooms come with private cabanas and terraces. The interiors have recently been renovated and designed by Turkish artist Mahmut Anlar. In the summer months, most people request for the second floor’s Marvelous Room, which boast air-bridges to private cabanas.
Did our travel Istanbul guide help you? Read more about such wonderful locations in our travel blogs.
