Take an epic tour of Istanbul, the city that bridges two continents and buzzes with historyand culture. See the highlights — historic sites, cultural experiences, markets — and enjoy the delectable food scene (from street food to upscale restaurants) and a nightlife scene that never disappoints.
Load up on tips for visiting so that you can have the best trip possible and enjoy a kooky city that’s as awesome as it is chaotic. After all, Istanbul combines the best of old and new for an unforgettable trip.
Must-see attractions in Istanbul
Historic Sites
Walking through Istanbul is like walking through the pages of a really long history book.
Start at the Hagia Sophia, a magnificent architectural feat that uses domes and mosaics to demonstrate its history as a Byzantine church, an Ottoman mosque, and now a museum.
Right next door is the Blue Mosque (officially the Sultan Ahmed Mosque), with its six minarets and more than 20,000 blue Iznik tiles, creating a calming, mystical environment.
A mere hop, skip, and jump away is the fantastic Topkapi Palace, where the sultans of the Ottoman Empire once dallied. Here, you can see jewel-stuffed treasure halls, sprawling courtyards, and rooms filled with the whispers of imperial power and intrigue.
Local Experiences
But Istanbul is more than the sum of its sights. Immerse yourself in local culture and take a traditional craft workshop to learn how to create traditional Turkish tile paintings. Wander around the bustling Arasta Bazaar, a great spot to pick up handwoven carpets and dainty ceramics. And if you can, visit the city during a traditional Turkish festival — a riot of color, music, and togetherness.
Shopping
Make sure to explore the Grand Bazaar, where you’ll find some of the most memorable souvenirs in Istanbul. Take home Turkish sweets or beautiful hand-painted ceramics, or even an evil eye charm to ward off negative energies and remind you of your travels to the city.
Enjoying Istanbul’s Vibrant Culinary and Nightlife Scene
Nowhere is that heady mix of flavors and spices better enjoyed than in Istanbul. You can begin by whetting your appetite with the likes of the simit (a sesame-encrusted, hoop-shaped bread) donated as a grab-and-go snack by Turks young and old.
Just as essentialis the kebab, succulent and chargrilled with all the right flavors of this rich cuisine. And don’t forget to enjoy some baklava, the classic dessert of honey-nut-stuffed phyllo that offers just the right balance of sweetness and crunch.
The food in Istanbul ties everything together. Head to a meyhane (Turkish tavern) and have some meze (appetizers) and raki (anise-flavored spirit) to start; there are always good vibes in these atmospheres. Alternatively, have a seafood meal at one of the fish restaurants on the Bosphorus, or dine on kebabs and baklava. Food is culture here — and not to be missed.
When the sun goes down, Istanbul has a vibrant nightlife to go with it. Hit one of the rooftop bars in Galata or Taksim and enjoy incredible views of the city and a relaxed atmosphere. Listen to live Turkish traditional or contemporary jazz music. It’s awesome for anyone who loves music and a good way to relax. The atmosphere has a lot of buzz going on and you can party hard or take it easy.
Practical Travel Tips and Essential Recommendations
Here are few tips for getting the lay of the land. First off, the local currency is the Turkish Lira, so carry a bit of cash for smaller purchases (credit cards are widely accepted here). In terms of transportation, the public transit system is easy to use and an Istanbulkart will get you on buses, trams, and ferries with ease. In terms of safety, Istanbul is fairly safe for travelers, but use common sense, as you would in any large city. Be vigilant of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas.
Keeping the above tips in mind, your time in Istanbul will be as easy and fun as it is unforgettable.
Conclusion
Istanbul is bound to be an experience you’ll never forget. With the city’s deep historical roots and lively modern flair, there’s something incredible to see everywhere you go. Whether you’re sampling mouth-watering street food, wandering through chaotic markets, or partying until the sun rises, Istanbul’surge will dazzle you with its charisma. Keep the information we’ve discussed in mind to ensure things run smoothly, and prepare to make memories to last a lifetime in this bustling city!