You may have heard that Istanbul is a city of contrasts, and you’ll definitely find that to be true when you visit! Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic sites or indulging in its nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Istanbul. But how can you make sure you have a great time on your trip? By following these tips, you’re sure to have an amazing time on your next trip to this city.
Utilize Tours
A great way to gain a deeper understanding of this city is to go on one of its many guided tours. Tons of tourists opt for the Istanbul hop-on hop-off bus as it gives them the opportunity to fully embrace every station they go through. From exploring the grand cultural attractions and iconic landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque, to taking a street food tour and learning about Turkish cuisine, you will be sure to have an enriching experience.
Alternatively, if you prefer something more active, there are countless boat cruises available that can take you down the Bosphorus where you can see all of Istanbul’s most stunning sites from a different angle. No matter which tour you choose, however, visiting Istanbul is guaranteed to be an unforgettable adventure.
Get Lost In The Bazaar
Taking a trip to Istanbul provides an amazing experience full of memorable moments, and there’s nothing quite like the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar to help you get lost in Turkish culture. With over 60 streets and 4,000 shops, there is something for everyone here from handmade jewelry, souvenirs, and colorful rugs to delicious Turkish delights and spices.
Get ready to do some haggling as the lively merchants shout out their prices or strangers trying to get your attention with samples. Taking the time to explore Grand Bazaar with its vibrant vibrancy is a must-do part of any Istanbul trip and will make for some truly unique moments that you are sure to remember long after your return home.
Visit The Mosques
A trip to Istanbul isn’t complete without a visit to some of its beautiful mosques! From the Hagia Sophia to the Suleymaniye Mosque, these stunning monuments are sure to take your breath away and make you appreciate the rich history of Istanbul. Not only will your visit give you a glimpse into a different culture and time period, but it’s also an opportunity to marvel at the impressive architecture.
Make sure to check out any guided tours offered on-site so that you can learn even more about each mosque’s unique features. If allowed, be sure to take photos as souvenirs and reminders of your memorable Istanbul experience.
Explore Local Cuisine
Exploring the local cuisine is a special part of traveling to Istanbul. From the vibrant street food scene of the Grand Bazaar, where you can sample the tasty regional delicacies, to experiencing a traditional Turkish meal at a family restaurant, there are so many ways to tantalize your taste buds. Here are some of the most famous Turkish dishes:
- Baklava
- Sis kebab
- Doner
- Kofte
- Pide
- Kumpir
- Meze
Many dishes incorporate fresh ingredients that have been grown or produced locally and are served in generous portions, making them perfect for sharing with friends. For a truly unique experience, why not take part in a food tour, or take an interesting class on how to cook authentic Turkish dishes? Whatever your style, there’s no doubt that sampling Istanbul’s delicious culinary offerings will be a highlight of your trip.
Explore On Foot
Exploring on foot is one of the best ways to experience the grandeur and beauty of Istanbul. Taking a walk in the early morning or late at night when the city is relatively quiet allows visitors to admire the unique architecture throughout this urban metropolis.
There are a number of attractions within easy reach that can be explored by taking a leisurely stroll. Famous landmarks such as Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Taksim Square are all just a short walk away from each other, making it easy for travelers to discover Istanbul’s most famous sites.
Try A Turkish Bath
Experience true relaxation on your Istanbul trip with a Turkish bath. Also known as ‘Hamam’, this timeless ritual combines cleansing and relaxation that you won’t experience anywhere else.
Unlike a regular shower or bath, Turkish baths are more invigorating to the body. Steam and hot-air are used to open up the pores and then a soapy massage is followed by a dousing with warm water. Be transported hundreds of years back in time and discover this incredibly unique form of bathing!
Your Istanbul trip will bring you more adventure, exploration, and relaxation than you ever imagined. Not one but many of the above experiences will come together to bestow upon you an extraordinary experience in Istanbul. From taking on unique tours to getting lost in the bazaar, from visiting the historic mosques to sampling traditional cuisines and exploring on foot to maybe even trying a Turkish bath. All of these activities promise to make your stay in Istanbul truly remarkable!