Discover Istanbul – Turkey’s Bustling Metropolis

Istanbul, one of Turkey’s most iconic cities, is celebrated for its rich history and cultural heritage. The heart of Istanbul is the historic Sultanahmet area, home to famous landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. You can also explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Taksim and Kadikoy, each offering a distinct atmosphere. Istanbul offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring ancient historic sites to indulging in delectable Turkish cuisine, and, of course, taking relaxing Bosphorus boat tours to witness the city from the water.

This travel guide will help you with how to get there, what to do, where to eat, and where to stay in Istanbul.

How to get to Istanbul

By Plane

You have two options for arriving in Istanbul: Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport, both providing convenient access to the city. Once you land, it’s a straightforward journey to reach the city center. Most accommodations offer airport transfer services, ensuring a hassle-free ride from the airport to your lodging in the heart of Istanbul. Alternatively, you can easily access the city center using public transportation options like buses, trams, or airport shuttles readily available at both airports.

By Bus

For a budget-friendly adventure, you can opt for a long-distance bus ride to Istanbul’s city center. Several bus services are available, and you can conveniently check options and prices on 12GO. This way, you can enjoy an affordable journey while experiencing the landscapes on your way to the heart of Istanbul.

How to get around Istanbul

Getting around in Istanbul is both efficient and diverse, thanks to various transportation options. Before choosing your favorite option, download the Trafi App to navigate the city’s bustling transportation network. It provides real-time information on public transportation schedules, routes, and even traffic conditions. It’s a valuable tool for planning your journeys around Istanbul.

Available modes of transportation:

🚌 Public Transportation: Istanbul has a well-connected public transportation system that includes trams, buses, metro lines, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a convenient travel card that can be used on all these modes. You can get them at major stops, including the airport, Sultanahmet, and Eminönü.
⛴️ Ferries: The Bosphorus is a central waterway, and ferries are a popular way to cross between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. The views of iconic landmarks from the ferry are breathtaking. Many public ferries can be paid with the Istanbulkart.
🚖 BiTaksi and Uber: Istanbul offers both BiTaksi and Uber services for convenient taxi rides. While both are reliable and often more cost-effective than regular taxis, locals tend to favor BiTaksi for its extensive coverage and integration with the Trafi app. Uber also operates in the city, providing an alternative choice for getting around.

Istanbul’s multi-faceted transportation system ensures you can explore the city with ease, whether you prefer land or water routes. The Trafi app simplifies the process, and the availability of both BiTaksi and Uber adds a layer of convenience.

What to do in Istanbul

The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque in Istanbul, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is located in the Sultanahmet district. Named for its beautiful blue tiles inside, this mosque is just across from the famous Hagia Sophia and is one of Istanbul’s top places to visit. The Blue Mosque has six minarets and thirteen elegant domes. When you visit, please remember to be respectful: you’ll need to take off your shoes before going inside, and ladies, don’t forget to cover your hair with a scarf. The mosque offers free scarves, but you can easily buy one in the city as well. You can book your Blue Mosque Tours online or book it at the ticket office on arrival.

The Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia, officially known as Ayasofya in Turkish, is a historic gem with a fascinating story. It started as a cathedral in the Byzantine era, transformed into an imperial mosque under Ottoman rule, and now stands as a museum. As you explore its grand interior, you’ll be mesmerized by its intricate mosaics and the unique blend of Christian and Islamic influences. It’s a place where centuries of culture and faith come together under one spectacular dome. Don’t forget to check its current status, as it may have returned to being a mosque. Book your skip-the-line tickets to the Hagia Sophia upfront or directly book your regular tickets at the entrance.

The Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace, a sprawling museum located in Istanbul’s Fatih district, was once the splendid residence of the Ottoman sultans. As you wander through this expansive complex, don’t forget to gaze up at the beautifully adorned roofs of the buildings. The palace houses a wealth of Ottoman treasures, and a visit to the harem is a must to explore the enchanting quarters where history unfolded. Beyond the historical riches, the views surrounding the palace are absolutely breathtaking. Check out all ticket options for the Topkapi Palace.

The underground Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern, also known as Yerebatan Sarn?c?, is an underground marvel that features hundreds of cisterns. Originally constructed to supply filtered water to nearby buildings, the cistern has been deliberately drained, allowing tourists to venture inside. This surreal space, prominently featured in Dan Brown’s novel “Inferno,” offers a unique experience. While it may not have left us as awestruck as we initially imagined, it’s undeniably worth a visit. You can buy skip the line tickets for the Basilica Cistern online.

Enjoy the Bosphorus views

A boat trip on the Bosphorus is an essential experience during your visit to Istanbul. You have the option of choosing a dedicated tourist boat tour or take a local ferry that connect different districts. No matter which you decide on, it comes highly recommended. During our stay, we had the opportunity to enjoy both the public ferries and a dedicated tourist boat ride. We did enjoy both, but especially the tourist boats can be really busy. You can easily book these when you are there. If you want a more private tour, then book a luxury yacht tour for a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus.

The Chaos of the Grand Bazaar

In and around Istanbul, you’ll discover many vibrant markets, with the Grand Bazaar (Kapal? Çar??) standing out as the most renowned. Boasting a staggering 5,000 shops, it ranks among the largest covered markets worldwide. Here, you can unearth an incredible array of items, from souvenirs and carpets to tea and spices. The market also offers a delightful selection of delectable foods. Do not miss the chance to get lost in the bustling streets surrounding the Grand Bazaar. It might be a bit chaotic, but it offers a great insight into the daily life of Istanbul.

For those craving some delicious döner kebab, we wholeheartedly recommend Gül Ebru Kantin, a charming little eatery tucked away in one of the bazaar’s corners. They serve various dishes, including beef kebabs, all at affordable prices. It’s a popular spot, and though there might be a wait, it’s certainly worth it!

Enjoy the smells of the Spice Market

We love food and we love spices, so we had to try out the spice market M?s?r Çar??s?. This is one of the largest bazaars in the city and most stalls offer spices. The market is centrally located close to the Eminönü stop and is right next to the New Mosque. Note that it can be busy on Friday for the Friday prayer. As we meandered through the market, we couldn’t resist picking up a variety of spices – just remember to put your haggling skills to good use. You will find anything here, from coriander to Indian saffron, and from Ottoman meat spices to cardamom. If you want any spice, you will most probably find it here.

Stroll through the Galata neighbourhood

The Galata neighborhood in Istanbul is a charming and historical district that beckons travelers with its captivating blend of old-world allure and modern vibrancy. At its heart stands the magnificent Galata Tower, an iconic medieval structure that not only serves as a symbol of the area but also provides visitors with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the city. The neighboring Galata Bridge is equally captivating, as it bustles with life. It’s a gathering place for local fishermen who cast their lines into the shimmering waters, supplying fresh catches to nearby restaurants. Seafood lovers will find this a paradise for indulging in the freshest fare.

Take the funicular from Taksim Square to Tünel

The Tünel funicular in Istanbul is a historic and charming mode of transport that connects Taksim Square, a major hub of the city, to Karaköy. It traverses the steep hill along ?stiklal Avenue through one of the world’s oldest subterranean railways, offering a unique and vintage experience. This journey not only facilitates easy travel between the two districts but also provides a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich history. Upon reaching Karaköy, you can explore the bustling waterfront and enjoy various cultural and culinary delights.

Explore the world of desserts

Turkish desserts are renowned worldwide for their exquisite flavors and delicate textures, forming an integral part of the country’s rich culinary tradition. Some of our absolute favorites:

• Baklava: With its layers of flaky pastry, sweetened nuts, and fragrant syrup, baklava is a sweet masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds. Numerous 100+ year old stores in Istanbul, usually combined with a cafe, allow you to enjoy a nice Turkish coffee or tea with some delicious baklava.
• Kunefe: A delightful blend of crispy kaday?f (shredded phyllo dough), melted cheese, and a generous drizzle of syrup, creating an unforgettable symphony of flavors.
• Dondurma: Turkish ice cream stands out not only for its unique elasticity but also for its wide array of flavors, including some exotic options.
• Turkish delight, or lokum, showcases a myriad of flavors and textures, from rosewater-infused delights to nut-studded variations.
• Katmer: A flaky pastry filled with clotted cream and pistachios, offering a heavenly combination of crunch and creaminess.

Turkish Bath Experience: A Must-Try in Istanbul

A visit to a Turkish hamam in Istanbul is a must for a relaxing and traditional experience. You’ll start in a steam room, followed by an invigorating scrub (kese), a luxurious foam wash, and optionally, a soothing oil massage. Afterward, unwind with Turkish tea in the serene ambiance. Some top hamams include Hurrem Sultan Hamam?, and K?l?ç Ali Pa?a Hamam?. Bring a swimsuit if preferred, expect to tip, and enjoy this centuries-old wellness ritual.

Where to eat in Istanbul

We love Turkish cuisine, and there are plenty of great restaurants in Istanbul. Here are some of our top picks:

• Gül Ebru Kantin: An eatery in the middle of the Grand Bazaar, offering some of the best kebabs we have had in our lives. It’s popular for a reason!
• Fuego Restaurant: Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, this lovely restaurant serves affordable and delicious Ottoman dishes. Don’t forget to have a delightful dessert to finish your dinner.
• Hafiz Mustafa: One of the large brands that have existed since 1864. Grab yourself a tea and some baklava and enjoy watching people at one of the many locations.
• Craft Beer Lab: Located in Be?ikta?, this bar offers beers from both local and international breweries. They have a small menu with some good pub food, such as hamburgers.
• Snog Rooftop Bar: Located in the Galata neighborhood, this rooftop bar is the ideal place to get some drinks and enjoy the views of the Bosphorus.

Where to stay in Istanbul

In Istanbul, you have a wide array of wonderful accommodation options. Many boutique hotels and hostels in popular areas such as Sultanahmet, Taksim, and Kadikoy offer captivating views of Istanbul’s diverse landscapes, adding an extra layer of charm to your stay in the city. Our top picks:

Cheers Hostel in Istanbul is a well-located and budget-friendly accommodation with a friendly atmosphere. Situated in Sultanahmet, it offers easy access to major attractions. The hostel provides a range of room options, fostering a social environment that encourages interaction among travelers. Dorms start at €30 a night and double rooms start at €50 a night.

Another lovely boutique accommodation in the Sultanahmet District is Henna Hotel, which provides a central location within walking distance of the key landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Double rooms start at €110 a night.

If you fancy a bit more luxury and a pool, then Galata’s Hotel in Istanbul is your place. This boutique hotel with a distinct charm is located in the historic and trendy Galata district. Double rooms start at €120 a night.