Istanbul is a fascinating city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. Located between Europe and Asia, this vibrant metropolis is a must-visit destination for any traveler. If you are planning a trip to Turkey, today we will share with you some of the attractions and experiences that should not be missed in your itinerary.
Disclaimer: In this article you will find some links to different travel's partners. They are all trustworthy and if you use some of them to book an experience or stay, for example, you are helping us maintaining the work we do on this project.
How to Get from the Airport to the City Center
To get from Istanbul International Airport (IST) to the city center, there are several options:
Havaist Bus: This bus line connects the airport to the city center and other areas of Istanbul. It is the most economical solution to get to the city center. The buses depart from floor -2 and operate 24/7. You can purchase the ticket from the driver and use the Revolut card.
Metro: The M11 metro line is also a fast and economical option, especially during peak hours. However, it has the disadvantage of requiring several line changes to reach your final destination.
Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminals and offer a convenient option, although they can be more expensive than other options. Make sure to use licensed taxis and request an estimate before boarding.
Private Transfer: There are several companies that offer private transportation services from the airport to the city center. One of the easiest ways to arrange this service is to speak directly with the hotel where you will be staying or through GetYourGuide.
How Many Days to Stay
The ideal number of days to visit Istanbul can vary according to the travel pace and interests of each person. However, to make the most of the city and see the main attractions, we recommend a minimum of 3 days.
What to Do in Istanbul
Visit the Blue Mosque
We start our visit to Istanbul by visiting one of the most famous places in the city - the Blue Mosque. Originally called the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, it is now better known as the Blue Mosque due to its beautiful blue tiles. Entrance to this mosque is free and it can be visited every day from 08:30 to 12:15, from 14:00 to 16:30, and from 17:30 to 18:30, except on Fridays when it opens only after 14:30.
Tip: Don't miss visiting the exterior of the mosque at night; it's incredible to see it with all the lights on. Truly imposing!
Explore Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is one of the city's most important landmarks due to its rich history. Originally built as a church, it was later converted into a mosque, as it remains today. Its imposing domes and beautiful mosaics attract visitors from all over the world, so if you want to visit it, we recommend going as early as possible. Since January 2024, the entrance to Hagia Sophia costs 25€. You can buy the ticket on-site or on the official website. If you want an audio guide ticket, we recommend booking through GetYourGuide.
Stroll through Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans, where you can get a glimpse of the culture and power of the Ottoman Empire. Explore the lush gardens, richly decorated rooms, and the famous harem, which offer a unique perspective on palace life and the influence of the Ottoman dynasty.
Venture into the Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is one of the places you absolutely cannot miss when visiting Istanbul. It is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, a true labyrinth of shops. Here you will find a little bit of everything, from jewelry, carpets, spices... It is the ideal place to practice your bargaining skills, as the items do not have indicated prices, making negotiation essential.
Taste Delicacies at the Spice Bazaar
The Egyptian Market, also known as the Spice Bazaar, is another famous market in Istanbul. This market is full of spices, Turkish delights, teas, dried fruits, and also souvenirs. The best part is that you will be approached several times to try these sweets, especially lokum, also known as Turkish Delight. In this market, you will find that many items already have fixed prices.
Discover the Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is an underground water reservoir. It was built during the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century, and its main function was to provide water to the Great Palace of Constantinople and other structures in the city. The cistern has impressive architecture with 336 marble columns. Among them are the enigmatic Medusa heads, whose origins are shrouded in some Greek myths. You can buy a ticket at the local or in GetYourGuide with audioguide.
Climb the Galata Tower
The Galata Tower is one of the most recognized symbols of Istanbul. The tower is approximately 66.9 meters high and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation platform.
When we visited Istanbul in May 2024, the tower was closed for renovation, so we couldn't visit it, but we shared a tip that was given to us: watching the sunset from here is truly enchanting.
Stroll along Istiklal Avenue and Taksim Square
Taksim Square is the heart of the modern city, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and clubs, where the nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Istiklal Avenue is a large street filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.
Take a Bosphorus Cruise
One of the experiences you can't miss in the city is a boat trip on the Bosphorus. This river divides the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
We recommend taking a cruise with dinner included so you can enjoy spectacular views of palaces, mosques, and bridges while enjoying an authentic meal with typical Turkish entertainment.
Visit Süleymaniye Mosque
Süleymaniye Mosque is another mosque you can visit in Istanbul. Entrance is free and it can be visited every day from 08:30 to 16:45, except on Fridays when it closes at 13:30. Outside the mosque, you have a panoramic view of the city.
Relax in a Turkish Bath
The Turkish bath, also known as hammam, is a spa tradition that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. It typically consists of several steam-heated rooms where you can relax and enjoy a massage. The traditional ritual includes starting in a hot room to open the skin pores, followed by scrubbing the body with special soap and a massage. Afterward, bathers gradually cool down in a cold room.
Taste the Local Cuisine
Typical Turkish food is delicious and has a wide variety, from sweets to savory dishes. Here is a list of various typical dishes that you absolutely must try:
Meat Kebab (Döner): Sliced meat, often served in sandwiches.
Balık Ekmek: Grilled fish sandwich, usually served with Turkish bread.
Pide: A type of Turkish pizza with various toppings.
Baklava: Thin layers of pastry filled with nuts and soaked in sugar syrup.
Künefe: A dessert made with kadayıf pastry filled with cheese, baked, and soaked in sugar syrup.
Lokum: Known as "Turkish delight," it is a sweet, gelatinous dessert, usually flavored with fruits or nuts.
Simit e açma: typical Turkish bread that you can find everywhere. They can be eaten plain, with chocolate or cheese.
Turkish Tea: Strong black tea, served hot in small glasses.
Turkish Coffee: Strong coffee, finely ground and boiled with water and sugar.
Istanbul was a city that positively surprised us. We were somewhat apprehensive about not liking it, but we loved it! It is a city that surprises you at every corner with its history, culture, and unique architecture. We must also mention that we were very well received by the Turkish people, who are friendly and have a great sense of humor.
Plan your visit well to make the most of all the wonders this city has to offer.
Safe travels and happy discoveries!
Staying Connected
If you plan to visit Vietnam, don't forget that mobile data does not work outside the European Union!
The best solution to stay connected to the Internet is to buy an eSIM or a local SIM. This time we used a Local SIM, but in other travels, we bought an eSIM at Airalo, and it always worked well. Just have a phone compatible with eSIM and buy the card through the Airalo app. It's very easy!
Get Travel Insurance
It is essential to be prepared for any trip you take, especially outside of Europe. Unexpected events happen, and no one wants to come back from vacation with a huge hospital bill to pay. That's where travel insurance comes in, an indispensable ally to ensure tranquility and safety for your holidays.
IATI offers numerous types of travel insurance depending on your type of trip and various coverages. Moreover, by purchasing insurance through our link, you get a special 5% discount.
Don't let unforeseen events ruin your adventure!
Click here to get your discount.
Comments