| One of the top things to do in Istanbul is visit Hagia Sophia, now turned into a museum but still stunningly beautiful.
Another must-see location in Istanbul is Topkapi Palace, offering stunning architecture and offering skip the line tours.
Be sure to visit the Galata Tower - it provides spectacular panoramic views of the city!
1. Take a Cruise on the Bosphorus
Take a cruise along Istanbul\'s magnificent Bosphorus to admire some of its most iconic sites like Dolmabahce Palace and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge. Some tours provide hotel pickups and drop-offs while others feature meals and traditional Turkish entertainment.
Unleash your inner adventurer at the Grand Bazaar, an elaborate labyrinth of narrow corridors packed with intricate Turkish rugs, clothing, pottery and artwork. Or visit the Spice Market where you can sample an abundance of exotic spices!
Numerous minarets dot the skyline, earning it the nickname of the "City of Minarets." You will also pass beneath Bosphorus Bridge - linking Europe and Asia.
2. Go Shopping at the Grand Bazaar
Stroll through the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul for an experience you won\'t soon forget. This historic covered market boasts everything shoppers could possibly desire and offers an enthralling shopping experience.
Be prepared to spend hours here, and bring a pen and paper with you so you can write down all the names of streets and alleys. Expect to become disoriented at times; that\'s part of the fun! It is easy to become disoriented but that only adds more fun! Learn more here Turkey Travel Planner
Take a break from shopping and relax at one of the cafes for some tea. Make sure you arrive in time, though; as popular items quickly sell out. Be prepared to bargain hard; wear comfortable shoes and bring along water.
3. Eat at a Turkish Restaurant
Weekend mornings find locals taking their time over breakfast before spending evenings dining, drinking raki and conversing at their favorite meyhanes (taverns) or restaurants - from cozy fish restaurants among villas along the Bosphorus to world-class fine dining establishments.
Try traditional Turkish dishes such as kofte, pide or dolma for something filling and delicious. Doner kebabs made of lamb, beef or chicken are also widely enjoyed. Vegetarians should sample zeytinyaglilar -- vegetable dishes with olive oil such as spinach, leeks or string beans -- which can either be combined with minced meat for additional flavors or enjoyed on their own as vegetarian fare. Don\'t miss the unique Turkish ice cream called maras dondurmasi that won\'t melt!
4. Visit the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Camii) in Istanbul is one of the city\'s top attractions, drawing its namesake from the blue tiles lining its interior walls. Beyond their popularity among visitors, however, the mosque is known for its stunning architecture and historical significance - however during prayer times non-Muslims must leave.
Combining a visit to a mosque with tours of Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace is the best way to gain an overview of Turkey\'s rich cultural treasures in short order. And don\'t forget the opportunity for authentic Turkish tea and coffee while in this area!
5. Take a Turkish Bath
An essential part of Istanbul culture, Turkish baths (hammams) offer one of the most enjoyable things to do while visiting this great city.
Experiences can be uncomfortable and strangely soothing at once. First you\'ll remove your street clothes and change into a pestemal and terlik, fringed towel wrap and slippers.
Once inside, you\'ll receive a scrub and soap massage in the hammam to purify your skin with high perspiration, help open pores, and re-energize your body. Finally, rinse off with cold water before taking a shower to end your experience.
6. Go to a Turkish Nightclub
Istanbul boasts many stunning nightclubs for dancing the night away, each offering energetic music, delicious cocktails, and an inviting environment.
Sortie is an exclusive club known for its luxurious ambience and breathtaking city views. Open until 4 a.m. daily, Sortie serves a selection of restaurants and pubs serving various cuisines like Cotto, Alas and Balikci Yilmaz to name just three!
As part of your travel experience, don\'t miss the thrills and chills of watching the whirling dervish show! While Western tourists may perceive it as entertainment for an audience, this religious ceremony makes an unforgettable spectacle you should not miss! The experience won\'t soon be forgotten!
7. Go to the Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace is one of the most stunning places in Istanbul. Each room is covered with exquisite tile work and the view from outside is breath-taking.
When visiting Istanbul Turkey, be sure to visit The Blue Mosque. Even though it no longer functions as a mosque, visitors can still enter and admire its breathtaking golden tiles - just make sure that you wear clothing with sleeves and have your head covered properly!
The Galata Tower is one of Istanbul\'s most recognizable landmarks, dominating views over Old Istanbul from its perch on Golden Horn. You can even take an elevator up the tower for a great look out over all of city. Additionally, an observation deck allows for even better vantages of Istanbul itself! |
| Recently Spotted MembersNo members found. Be the first. |
