In the hustle and bustle of this global hub, there are always opportunities for moments of spontaneity, reflection and connection.
Where Europe meets Asia: this capital city has it all! From its delicious cuisine and (world renowned) coffees and teas, to the stunning architecture that straddles the Bosphorus sea- there is plenty to experience here so take time to explore the city's rich history, culture and traditions. This beautiful place taught me the importance of 'throwing out' plans (and that all important itinerary) in order to fully embrace the present and all it has to teach us.
Top sights to see!
The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque: a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at its impressive architecture and learn all about this cultural landmark's rich history: initially built as a Christian church during the Byzantine Empire and later turned into a mosque under Ottoman rule.
The Blue Mosque: located within the "Historic Areas of Istanbul" - a UNESCO World Heritage Centre - this majestic masterpiece was built during the Ottoman Empire under Ahmed I's reign.
Galata Tower: a UNESCO recognised landmark (added into the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites back in 2013), you can enjoy 360-degree views of the entire city. Built back in the the Byzantine Era, it holds its place as an important historical and cultural landmark within the capital. During the Ottoman Era, it functioned as both a jail and watchtower, but now it serves as a museum and key viewing platform for the city.
The Grand Bazaar and the Egyptian Bazaar: a treat for all the senses! You can't miss a stroll down these two incredible bazaars... Lively, vibrant and bustling, be ready for eager and enthusiastic merchants who are ready to sell souvenirs, spices, scarves along with other tempting goods. The Grand Bazaar hosts a whole range of items, whereas the Egyptian Bazaar is better for purchasing spices and sweet treats.
Taksim Square: another important tourist district within the city, here you can find a range of shops, hotels, bars and restaurants. Don't miss out on riding the traditional tram that connects Taksim square to Tünel Square.
Other points of interests and tips!
Topkapi Palace Museum: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historical landmark provides a fascinating insight into the Ottoman Era. It is symbol of the wealth, power and architecture of the time. If you are keen to learn about the city's rich history, this is a place that should not be missed on your holiday itinerary!
A Cruise along the Bosphorus: feel that refreshing salty sea air (along with the wind in your hair!) with an invigorating boat ride around the Bosphorus sea. With impressive views of the bridges that connect both districts along with stunning views of the city's landscape: this will provide an opportune moment for getting those all important holiday snaps!
A sightseeing bus: as it is a sprawling city across two continents, I would recommend opting for a bus ride that will take you around the city and to all the key sights. After a day of attempting to walk around the whole capital, I was relieved to take the bus on the second day! The bus meant that I was able to see much more in a shorter period of time (in a much more relaxing manner!)
Need to knows!
Currency: | Turkish Lira |
Language: | Turkish (but English is widely spoken) |
Plug type: | Type F |
Travel: | The two main airports operating in Istanbul are: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. Many of the hotels and city's attractions are located on the European side but both airports are easy to get 'to and from'. |
Cash or card? | Both are accepted. |
My Experience:
I visited Istanbul back in June of this year, so the height of the summer season! Unsurprisingly I was met with the holiday crowds and a hectic liveliness: all wrapped up in an intense heat! However, this added to the magical charm and excitement of the city and I loved waking up each day: ready to explore this vast and vibrant iconic capital. The strange juxtaposition of city and sea air provided a new experience for my senses and I soon began to relax: the sea breeze blowing away the dusty cobwebs of previous work, worry and weariness. As a self-confessed creature of routine and a serial planner (to the 'nth degree'), I tried to practise 'going with the flow', in order to fully immerse myself in the true spirit of "holiday".
On one of the days, I was walking in the direction of The Grand Bazaar when I was stopped by a man - a local trader in textiles and carpets - who introduced himself and then asked me where I was from. Polite conversation ensued - due to his friendly and open demeanour - and before I knew it, he was taking me on a tour to a mosque nearby.
He provided me with a tour of this incredible place of worship; inside the architecture was stunning, and the serene tranquillity was a welcome moment of repose and stillness in contrast to the hectic hustle and bustle outside. Outside the mosque stood an impressive viewing point: overlooking this thriving city. This moment felt really special and I was pleased to have abandoned my rigid plans and itinerary for the day in order to enjoy this unexpected detour.
Afterwards my new friend took me to his shop where we enjoyed traditional teas and coffees. The carpets and textiles that he sold were beautiful and if I owned my home (and had sufficient baggage allowance), I would have definitely made a purchase or two! For an hour or so we just chatted and I confessed that I was a serial planner who wasn't attuned to "going with the flow". He told that me that there was no point in planning saying a phrase that really resonated with me: "tomorrow is never promised". This simple statement struck a chord as I am currently trying to to live more in the present: not letting the past dictate whilst not allowing future worries to dominate.
This spontaneous detour (although I was hesitant at the time) has now become one of the things that I remember and cherish most about my stay in Istanbul. And who knows, if I ever own my home, maybe I'll reach out to this new friend and let him know that I am finally in the market for that beautiful carpet!
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