Highlights of Istanbul
See: Hagia Sophia
Formerly a temple, a church and now a mosque, this sacred site has seen the rise and fall of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires and bears testament to Istanbul’s rich and ever-evolving history. Its soaring dome and sublime interior never fail to impress, making it one of the world’s most iconic buildings.
Top tip: To avoid the crowds come in the evening and explore this ancient monument by moonlight.
Other sights to see in Sultanahmet:
Hagia Sophia is located in the district of Sultanahmet, also referred to as the 'Old City'. This is where you will find most of Istanbul's historical attractions, including ancient monuments, majestic mosques and ornate palaces. You could spend days exploring here, however I've listed a few of the top sights to include in your itinerary below.
Explore: Bustling Bazaars
If you are keen to pick up some souvenirs from your trip, then there’s no better place to shop than the chaotic and colourful bazaars. Piled high with tempting displays of spices and sweets, you'll find stalls here selling anything you could possibly need or want! Istanbul's Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, however there are also a number of other interesting spots to explore. Friendly haggling over a glass of tea is an essential part of the experience and you shouldn’t leave without buying at least a few boxes of Turkish Delight to take home, a traditional sweet flavoured with rosewater and chopped pistachios.
Important Note: Most of the bazaars are closed on Sundays so plan your shopping trips accordingly.
Experience: Relax at a Hammam
Turkish Hammams evolved from the tradition of Roman baths and are the ideal way to relax and unwind after a hectic day of sightseeing. Often housed in beautiful historic buildings, this spa-like experience involves being scrubbed, massaged and lathered up with bubbles whilst relaxing on a heated platform. Many Hammams also offer additional massage and treatment options and usually end with complimentary tea and refreshments. After your treatment you will emerge back into the busy Istanbul streets feeling totally relaxed and rejuvenated!
There are many wonderful Hammams in the city to choose from but if it's your first time and you're not quite sure what to expect I would highly recommend the Catma Mescit, a historical hammam from the 16th century where you can book private sessions for a totally indulgent and stress-free experience.
Taste: Turkey's Diverse Cuisine
Turkish food is delicious and diverse, owing to the varied landscapes that make up this huge country, and there is a lot more on offer than just kebabs (though these are undeniably delicious!) In Istanbul you can sample simple street food or high-end fine dining and if you have a sweet tooth you'll surely be in heaven! Here are a few recommendations to get you started.
Street Food:-
Balik Durum - As you stroll along the shores of the Bosphorus you will see old men fishing off the Galata Bridge and locals strolling by snacking on these popular fish wraps. Fresh mackerel is grilled up amidst plumes of smoke by street vendors and served in a toasted flatbread, seasoned with a special blend of spices.
Lahmacun - Another cheap and cheerful option, this dish is often described as 'Turkish pizza' and consists of a thin, crispy flatbread topped with spiced minced meat and cooked in a wood-fired oven. It is served with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon and rolled up to make the perfect lunch or late-night snack.
Restaurants:-
For a modern twist on traditional Turkish dishes head to Gumruk, a cosy brasserie in the hip Karakoy area serving a mix of Turkish & European dishes.
Turkish desserts:-
From addictively sweet pastries to tempting trays of Turkish Delight there are plenty of options in Istanbul for those with a sweet tooth.
Discover: The Asian Side
Whilst most of Istanbul's main sites are located on the European side, it's well worth travelling across to the Asian side for a taste of local life there. With its comparatively laid-back atmosphere, you can wander the streets discovering hipsters sipping flat whites in trendy coffee shops whilst old men play backgammon and sip endless glasses of tea right next door. Taking a ferry across the Bosphorus and admiring the city's skyline studded with elegant minarets is also a quintessential Istanbul experience. The ferry ride only takes about 20 minutes but there is something quite thrilling about crossing from one continent to another!
Top Tip: Pick up a Istanbulkart (Istanbul Card) which you can use to travel on Istanbul's ferries, buses and trams. It gives you reduced rates and can be easily purchased and topped up at kiosks outside the ferry terminal and at bus/tram stops.
Don't Miss: Beautiful Besiktas
Whilst it's easy to spend all of your time exploring the sights in Sultanahmet, it's worth hopping on the ferry to explore the charming district of Besiktas. Here you will find ornate palaces and mosques lining the waterfront, showcasing a unique blend of architectural styles.
One of the area's loveliest districts is Ortakoy, which traces its roots back to the Byzantine era. Admire the Mecidiye Mosque which sits right on the Bosphorus shore and enjoy strolling around the narrow, atmospheric streets.
Stay:
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Splurge:-
Enjoy your trip to Istanbul!
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