Istanbul Travel Guide
Istanbul is a vibrant and energetic city with a rich cultural heritage, and is considered by many to be the most traditional capital in the world. However, Istanbul is one of the oldest cities in the world and has been the capital of Turkey for over four centuries. One of the best things about Istanbul is that no matter what your interests are, there will be something for you to do or see here.
Today, visitors can enjoy Ottoman architecture in all its glory, and ancient relics are found at every turn. Furthermore, Istanbul offers more than just historical value, as it is also a cosmopolitan place with modern amenities that make it popular among tourists.
What makes Istanbul different?
The Turkish capital is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and it’s not hard to see why, as there are so many different things to do in the city. This fascinating city offers a huge variety of tours and activities that will make your stay unforgettable.
The city has a unique geographical location, which allows it to trade extensively with Europe and Asia. The Bosphorus is Istanbul's natural waterway that connects it to both worlds, as well as the Black Sea further east on its northern shore. Consequently, Istanbul has become an important trading port for many international corporations from around the world in recent years.
What tourist attractions to visit?
Istanbul is home to many impressive sites, from Ottoman palaces and mosques to Byzantine churches and modern skyscrapers. When you’re visiting, you’ll never get bored in the city, as there’s plenty to do from exploring its streets to its local cuisine, which is considered to be one of the most diverse in the world.
See more about some of Istanbul's main tourist attractions:
1. Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, translated as “The Church of Holy Wisdom”, is a former Orthodox patriarchal basilica, but currently serves as a museum in Istanbul.
2. Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace is one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions, and it became popular after it was featured in a popular novel. The palace is traditional as it has been the home of the Ottoman sultans and their families for over 400 years.
3. Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most beautiful architectural gems. However, the mosque was built as a Greek Orthodox Christian church between 532-537 AD by order of Emperor Justinian I and has become a popular destination for visitors over time.
4. Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions, and was built in the 336th century during the Byzantine era. However, the cistern is made up of XNUMX large carved marble columns, which were only revealed when they were cleaned during its restoration.
5. Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar has been around for over four centuries and is home to some of Istanbul’s oldest merchants. It also has a historical section where you can find items from the Ottoman era and earlier.
Where to stay in Istanbul?
Istanbul is the cultural capital of Turkey and offers a variety of accommodation options for its tourists. The city has a traditional and calm atmosphere combined with luxury hotels that make the city comfortable for tourists and historically significant, as it was once the center of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.
Below are some of the best areas to stay in Istanbul:
1. Galatians
Galata developed a unique culture, architecture and identity during the Byzantine era. The district flourished while serving as Istanbul’s main port until the present day, when it became a popular tourist destination with its narrow cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings and small cafes shrouded in cigarette smoke.
Tourists have easy access to many historical landmarks such as Galata St. Michael's Church, Galata Tower and the Galata Mevlevi House, which became a museum shortly after being converted.
2. Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet is an iconic neighborhood in Istanbul that has a rich history and culture, as the area has been home to many ancient monuments and traditional Turkish lifestyles. Guests are often drawn to the area thanks to its proximity to other notable sites, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Hippodrome.
A popular place for travelers to stay nearby is the Four Seasons Sultanahmet. This hotel is located in one of Istanbul’s most notable areas, as it provides access to attractions such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The building offers a luxury boutique feel with views of the majestic Bosphorus Strait.
3. Baladi
Balat is considered the city’s most well-known neighborhood, but the area was once known as the “wet spot” because of the tidal river that flowed in and out of Istanbul, which turned the land into a marshy area. The Balat district is located between two main areas, Fatih and Beyoglu. Today, the area has been completely transformed into a modern, gleaming city and a hub for art and culture.
The name “balat,” a Turkish word meaning “belly,” refers to the fact that the city was once within the walls of the city of Theodosius, who built Constantinople and later moved his capital to a new location. The area has been part of Istanbul since it was first settled in 789 AD.
4. Eminonu
Eminonu is one of Istanbul’s most popular and traditional neighborhoods, having been part of the city for centuries. The Sultan Ahmed Mosque and Yeni Camii are among its most famous buildings. In addition, the area offers a unique cultural experience with its centuries-old architecture, lively streets, and old-world charm.
Eminonu’s charm is what makes it such an attractive destination for tourists. The neighborhood’s cobblestone streets are lined with shops selling traditional Turkish products, restaurants serving local cuisine, cafes serving traditional Turkish coffee, and art galleries displaying paintings from various eras.
5. Besiktas
Besiktas was built on the edge of one of Istanbul's oldest settlements, Kocamustafapaşa, which has undergone many transformations over the centuries. The district has been known by various names since ancient times, in 677 BC it was called Chalcedon and when Byzantium was under Roman rule it became Scopolis.
The neighborhood has been the focus of archaeological excavations since the 19th century, and its name “Besiktas” comes from “Besektaş,” meaning “twin castles.” The heart of the Besiktas district, it boasts a cluster of Ottoman architecture and some of the city’s best cafes and restaurants. Besiktas is a popular tourist destination due to its bustling nightlife and cool cafes.