DESTINATION ISTANBUL |
Istanbul is the biggest city in Turkey and it is the economic, cultural, and historical heart of the country. Istanbul is one of the largest urban agglomerations in Europe with a population of 13.5 million. Istanbul is a transcontinental city, straddling the Bosphorus—one of the world's busiest waterways—in northwestern Turkey, between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. Its commercial and historical center live in Europe, while a third of its population lives in Asia.Istanbul is placed in northwestern Turkey within the Marmara Region on a total area of 5,343 square kilometers. The Bosphorus, which connects the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea, divides the city into a European side, comprising the historic and economic centers, and an Asian, Anatolian side. Golden Horn also divedes the city, it’s a natural harbor bounding the peninsula where the former Byzantium and Constantinople were founded. In the late 19th century, a wharf was constructed in Galata at the mouth of the Golden Horn, replacing a sandy beach that once formed part of the inlets coastline.
On 29 May 1453, after an eight-week siege Sultan Mehmed II captured Constantinople and declared it the new capital of the Ottoman Empire. Hours later, the sultan rode to the Hagia Sophia and summoned an imam to proclaim the Islamic creed, converting the grand cathedral into an imperial mosque. After capturing Constantinople, Mehmed II immediately starts revitalizing the city. He urged the return of those who had fled the city during the siege, and forcibly resettled Muslims, Jews, and Christians from other parts of Anatolia. The sultan invited people from all over Europe to his capital. It was for creating a cosmopolitan society presenting much of the Ottoman period. He also repaired the city's damaged infrastructure and began to build the Grand Bazaar, and constructed Topkapı Palace, the sultan's official residence.
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Istanbul: City Breaks
Proving its popularity, in 2018, Go Travel Turkey Traveller voted Istanbul, as the ninth best city in the world to visit, while Mastercard’s Global Cities Destination Index rated it as position 9 of the world’s top travel destinations. Annually hosting over 10 million visitors every year, prominent landmarks to see include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
I Love Istanbul : Here Are 4 Reasons Why
Istanbul has for a long time, been the heart and soul of Turkey. Boasting of more than 14 million official residents, the city is the only one in the world that spans two continents; Europe and Asia. I love Istanbul and admit to a major addiction for this characteristic destination.
Occasionally I meet people who wrongly assume that Istanbul is the capital of Turkey but even though it isn’t, it is still an important business hub and the number-one tourist destination of Turkey. In 2014, it beat the likes of Rome and Milan to become a top city-break destination of the world.
Some people return time and time again for a leisurely break while others admire the city so much, they buy homes there, and it now has a large expat community comprised of many nationalities. Whether people fall into the category of tourist, business traveller or expat resident, we all have one thing in common and that is we say with pride, “I love Istanbul.”
Istanbul is one of those blessed cities that rarely attracts a bad press and with good reason. Unquestionably one of the world’s great metropolises, the city formerly known as a Byzantium and Constantiople has served as a capital of great civilizations from Roma times to days of the Ottoman Empire.
Ankara usurped it as the seat of government when the Republic of Turkey was formed in 1923 , but it’s Istanbul that remains Turkey’s biggest draw by far. The city staddles Europe and Asia either side of Bosphorus and is an endlessly compeling blend of East and West . Historic sights such as the Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque) and the Topkapı Palace are vivid reminders of the city ‘s long run glory , while teeming bazaars and ancient hamams.(Turkish Baths) also offer a window into the past.
This ,however , isn’t city content to live off its reputation. The international fashion and design press have been talking up Istanbul for the past years and there are as many cutting edge boutiques, bars, galleries ,clubs and restaurants these days as there are Ottoman mosques.
In a city of so many beguilling sights ,it can be diffucult to know where to start. Most tourists head straight to old city of Sultanahmet , where many reminders of the Costantionople era can be found. Other options for daytime exploration include a cruise on the Bosphorus or a trip to the Princes’ Island archipelago; a car free heaven away from the fenereic buzz of the city.
Afterdark , however, the city is the only place to be. A culinary heavyweight, Istanbul’s restaurants and selection of eating options is heroic , while the bars , cafes and clubs of areas such as Beyoglu offer futher evidence of Istanbul’s irresistable life force.
Go Travel Turkey offers guided tours of Istanbul and sightseeing tours of must seen monuments listed below.
ISTANBUL LOCATION |
Istanbul – a fantastic city, the only metropolis in the world located between two continents: Europe and Asia. Istanbul stands out for its architecture, culture and lengthy history. Within minutes you are guaranteed to fall in Love with this city. Its exotic atmosphere and historical vibes make Istanbul a city that is impossible to forget. Excursions are a necessity in Istanbul in order to view all the magnificence this city has to provide.
Here are 10 top reasons to visit Istanbul:
1. Istanbul – A touristic and friendly city. Istanbul is used to receiving millions of tourists from all parts of the world. Easy to navigate on foot, Istanbul has plenty of attractions and with much entertainment. Known as a paradise for photographers, Istanbul has great scenery, wonderful beaches with many unique markets, museums, mosques, and so much more.
2. Istanbul – A paradise of hotels. If you are fond of luxury hotels – Istanbul is your location. Taksim, one of many neighborhoods is known for its nightlife festivities and renown shopping experience. You can find a wide
range of affordable hotels offering wonderful views of the Golden Horn, the Marmara Sea, as well as the Blue Mosque. If your budget allows there are plenty more hotels which are located on the coast boasting elegant views of the Bosphorus.
3. Istanbul – It’s not just all about carpets. Istanbul is known for its exquisite hand woven carpentry, however it is a city known for much more than that. While staying in this beautiful city be sure to go check out the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market. Drink chai while sellers introduce you to their specialty of goods. Remember that while in Turkey, no deal is a done deal without the magic of bargaining; politely ask for a reduction in price and you are sure to receive just that. All traditional markets are located in the old town with new and trendy shops in the center. Keep an eye out for great buys such as a semi-precious stone by the name of chalcedony.
4. Istanbul – is completely surrounded by the sea. Bosphorus Strait; connecting the Black and Marmara Sea that separates Europe from Asia. Cruise on the Bosphorus - one of the most popular entertainments in Istanbul.
5. Istanbul – is built on silk and gold. Istanbul has a rich history. This city was known as a settlement located on the Silk Road. First going by the name of Byzantium, then Constantinople, and now Istanbul.
6. Istanbul –Lokum (Turkish delight). One of the highlights of visiting Istanbul is its world-renowned cuisine. The vast variety offered in this Mediterranean cuisine consists of healthy, tasty, and affordable dishes.
7. Istanbul –The Real City That Never Sleeps. Being the sociable city that Istanbul is, the nightlife sector remains one of the most sought after entertainment. Endless numbers of wine bars, clubs with live music, hookah lounges and pubs are lined right next to one another.
8. Istanbul – Steam Baths and Hamams. Marble stone baths are divided into male and female section, ensuring visitors relaxation, harmony, and peace of mind. Hamams also provide personal and private massages with
specialized aromatherapy oils to help relieve stress normally accumulated during the day.
9. Istanbul – is easily accessible. Direct flight are offered to and from Istanbul via various Commonwealth of Independent States countries.
10. Istanbul – a city comprised of history. The only city in the world to become capital of two world empires for more than two millennia.
Go Travel Turkey in Istanbul offers a full range of services:
-From 5 star deluxe resorts to more economical 2 or 3 star alternatives.
-Villa style apartments also offer ease with personal kitchen and living room space.
-Transfer and excursions.
-Group tours including; Antique Necklace Turkey; Weekend in Istanbul; Istanbul Charm; Bosphorus Cruise; and Rest on the Sea of Marmara
Write to us, we will make your stay in Istanbul one that is unforgettable!
Istanbul is the heart of turkey, the only city in the world on two continents and the most populated city in Europe. The country has over 2000 years of history and is the former capital of three successive empires, the Christian, Islamic and Ottoman Empires. The past is well preserved, whilst there is a modern streak apparent. The small waterway; the Bosphorous, runs through the city and creates a harmonic setting for the historic landmarks, including;
TOP SIGHTS OF ISTANBUL
HAGIA SOPHIA MUSEUM
Hagia Sophia was built at the command of Emperor Justinian in the years 532 to 537. It was first constructed as a church, then became a mosque and is now a museum. It has the fourth biggest dome in the world, towering at 56m, it is the largest in Turkey...
BLUE MOSQUE
The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is without a doubt, one of the most spectacular sights of Istanbul and one of the architectural marvels of the world. It is referred to as the Blue Mosque, due to the blue tiles adorning the interior walls.
TOPKAPI PALACE
Topkapi Palace was the administrative centre for the Ottoman Empire, for nearly 400 years, from 1465 to 1853. The palace was the setting for many royal entertainment events. Topkapi Palace is certainly the most important historical site to be visited in Istanbul....
HIPPODROME AND OBELISKS
In the square in front of the Blue Mosque one of the most famous areas in Byzantine Constantinople can be found; the Hippodrome. The ancient Hippodrome, was a originally a gathering place, sports area and the scene of chariot races....
GRAND BAZAAR
The Grand Bazaar is one of the biggest covered markets in the world. It was originally built in 1464, at the command of Fatih Mehmet II, shortly after his Conquest. It contains around 4400 shops, 2195 workshops, 497 stalls and 18 fountains..
DOLMABAHCE PALACE
This area was originally the bay, where the navy anchored in the early periods; when the Ottomans conquered Istanbul. Between the years 1611-1614, this bay was filled in and a timber building with a large garden called "the Besiktas Palace" was built by the order of Sultan Ahmet I. The land of the Besiktas Palace, which had become completely useless due to a fire....
SULEYMANIYE MOSQUE
Suleymaniye is a mosque located on the third hill in Istanbul. It is the second largest mosque in Istanbul. The mosque was built by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan..
GOLDEN HORN
The Golden Horn is a horn shaped inlet on the Bosphorus, which divides the European half of Istanbul, forming a natural harbour. There are walls built along the shoreline...
SPICE BAZAAR
Istanbul's 17th-century Spice Bazaar, otherwise known as Misir Carsisi, was built to provide rent for the upkeep of the nearby mosque, the Yeni Camii. The Spice Bazaar is the second largest covered shopping complex, after the Grand Bazaar and one of the oldest Bazaars in Istanbul...
BOAT CRUISE ON BOSPHORUS
The Bosphorus is the waterway between the two continents of Turkey, the European part, known as Rumelia or Ortakoy and the Asian part known as Anatolia or Beylerbeyi. The name originates from Greek mythology...
RUMELI FORTRESS
Rumeli Fortress is located on a hill on the European side of the Bosporus, north of the Bebek district, on the narrowest point of the Bosphorus; giving the name of the quarter around it. It was built by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II between 1451 and 1452.....
BOSPHORUS BRIDGE
The Bosphorus Bridge spans the Bosphorus Strait and provides the unique chance to step from one continent Ortakoy (European side) to another Beylerbeyi (Asian side), within a few minutes. The Ataturk Bridge carries 200,000 vehicles and 600,000 people a day......
CAMLICA HILL
Çamlica Hill is one of the highest points of the Bosphorus and Istanbul, 267 metres above sea level. Çamlica Hill is the tallest of the two twin peaks of Mount Bulgurlu. The Çamlica Hill has wonderful panoramic views......
BASILICA CISTERN
Basilica Cistern is the largest of hundreds of underground cisterns in Turkey, capable of holding 80,000 cubic metres of water. It is located next to Hagia Sophia and was built during the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century.....
NIGHT LIFE
Istanbul offers a great variety of nightlife and entertainment. This ranges from the more traditional male-dominated cafes, to big nightclubs.
Traditional Turkish bars are called Meyhanes’s and are a combination of raki, beer and wine, along with food; including mezes (starters), kebabs and fruits of the season. The most popular area to find Meyhane’s is behind the flower passage in the Cicek Pasaj in Beyoglu. This area is a mixture of flowers, fish and vegetable stalls, where street musicians and vendors wander among the revelers.
TAKSIM SQUARE
Taksim square is considered the heart of modern Istanbul and is situated on the European side. It is composed of a main shopping street, a tram line, hotels, restaurants and a favourite location for public events such as New Year’s celebrations. It is a very popular place for tourists and the nightlife is bustling, with various different venues, depending on your preferences in music.
Istanbul, with its historical peninsula, numerous scenic and historical beauties is a magnificently unique city that has been capital to many civilizations from past to present and still continues to be home to residents from all over the world. This rooted city, with a history dating back to 300 thousand years before, constitutes a mosaic of many civilizations and cultures combined. It leaves no surprises why it has a world-renowned reputation as a hot destination to visit while on a cruise.
THINGS TO DO:
MARVEL AT THE STUNNING MOSAICS OF HAGIA SOPHIA
Originally built as a Christian church between 532 and 537AD by the emperor Justinian, Istanbul’s Haghia Sophia – which means Divine Wisdom – is a symbol of the city’s history, becoming a mosque in 1453 when the Ottomans conquered what was then known as Constantinople. It remained as a mosque until 1935, when it was converted into a museum by Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. For 1,000 years, its dome was the world’s largest – 98ft in diameter , surpassed only in the 16th century with the construction of St. Peter’s in Rome. It mosaics are considered among the finest examples of Christian iconography in the world. Many were covered when the church was turned into a mosque, and although restoration work has uncovered many major mosaics, restorers have had to balance this work with preserving Islamic art that would be destroyed in the process. If you would like to visit Hagia Sophia, you can check this Istanbul tour program offers guided tours of Hagia Sophia.
ADMIRE SOME SERIOUS BLING, THE FAMOUS SPOONMAKER’S DIAMOND AT TOPKAPI PALACE
Allegedly found by a poor fisherman on a rubbish heap in Istanbul in 1669 and bartered to a spoon maker who , in turn, sold it on to a jeweler, the 86-carat , pear-shaped Spoon maker’s diamond- Kasikci in Turkish – is the world’s seventh largest, and holds pride of place in the Topkapi Palace museum. Completed during the 15th century, the building was the home to all the Ottoman sultans for four centuries. It also featured in the glamorous 1964 Oscar – winning caper film Topkapi, about a plot a steal a jeweled dagger. For guided tours of Topkapi Palace you can check our Istanbul city tours.
HAGGLE FOR BARGAINS IN THE 14TH-CENTURY GRAND BAZAAR- MAYBE EVEN BUY ONE OF THE FAMOUS TURKISH CARPETS
Shopping in Istanbul. It just has to be done. But whether it’s the highlight of your stay or an endurance test, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar will provide an memorable experience. Created during the 14th century, Grand Bazaar is located in the heart of the old city and is one of the world’s largest covered markets, with thousands of shop lining its 65 streets and alleys. Best buys : leather, spices ,jewellery and, of course, carpets. Silk, wool or cotton , Turkish carpets are considered works of art, and if you do fancy trying to bag a bargain rug, be prepared to drink tea and haggle.
ENJOY A MEAL OF FRESH FISH ON THE BANKS OF THE BOSPHORUS
With its thriving cafe culture and position at the foot of the Bosphorus Bridge , which links Europe and Asia, Ortaköy has a distinctly cosmopolitan feel. The district boats a fantastic choice of fish restaurants positioned directly on the waterfront, as well as a bustling Sunday market. A great place to sit and enjoy a leisurely cup of strong, sweet Turkish coffee while simply watching the world go by. You can either enjoy it with a Bosphorus Cruise Tour or dine in one of Istanbul restaurants recommended by our Turkey Tour specialists.
WATCH A PERFORMANCE OF THE ‘WHIRLING DERVISHES’ IN HODJA PASHA CULTURE CENTER
Every year in Konya celebrates The birth of Turkish poet and philosopher Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, an ambassador for tolerance, unity and peace. However you do not have to go to Konya to watch the ceremony. In Hodja Pasha Culture Center, you can watch the mystical whirling dance of the dervishes as they perform their religious ceremony, known as the sema.
GET AWAY FROM THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF ISTANBUL ON THE IDYLLIC PRINCES’ ISLANDS
A 90-minute ferry ride from Istanbul brings visitors to Buyukada, largest of nine small islands collectively known as the Princes’ Islands. For centuries, these were places of exille (Trotsky fled to Büyük Ada and wrote his History of the Russian Revolution in a wooden mansion , Izzet Pasa Kosku).Now, tourists come here to enjoy the serenity of the leafy , traffic-free lanes. The Princes’ islands are the perfect contrast to the busy city and come alive in the summer with local families, enjoying the verdant scenery and attractive beaches. Enjoy a cold beer and some fresh fish at one of the seafront restaurants before heading back to mainland. You can also join our Istanbul tour package which includes a tour of Princes’ Islands.
FOLLOW THE TRAIL OF JAMES BROND THROUGH THE ANCIENT UNDERGROUND CISTERN OF YEREBATAN IN ISTANBUL
Yerebatan Sarayi (‘sunken palace’) or Underground Cistern is the spectacular location from the 1963 Bond film, From Russia with Love. Remember the scene where 007 rowed a small boat through a forest of marble columns? That was filmed at this sixth-century underground Byzantine cistern, which the water while classical music play in the background. Walkways enable visitors to explore its secret corners. The upside-down Medusa supports one of columns; scholars are buffed as to why it should be upside down- perhaps it was to protect people from the Gorgon’s stony stare. You can see our Istanbul Daily tours including visit to Undergroun Cistern (Yerebatan).
On my last visit to Istanbul, I ran into the KFC restaurant, eager to sample the world-renowned chicken that my taste buds had missed dearly. I also tasted sushi for the first time, and the local recommended street food called the Taksim Wet Burger.
The latter did not impress me even though a Trip Advisor reviewer famously labelled it a “Drunk’s Best Friend” but my diet for that week proves eating out in Istanbul is all about diversity.
From the humble baked potato to the fish restaurants of Ortakoy to the highly overpriced gourmet establishments, you can have what you want!
In Istanbul, when thinking about food, there is no need to comprise on taste.
I am fascinated by the history of Turkey and since Istanbul was formerly Constantinople, the capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, it is perfect for history buffs.
The old part of the city is a UNESCO World heritage site.There are hundreds of museums and touring Ottoman palaces like Dolmabahce explains perfectly why the Ottoman Empire was disbanded, called the sick man of Europe and left for broke.
The Blue Mosque of 1616 portrays the brilliance of architect Sedefkar Mehmed Agha, who was a pupil of Mimar Sinan, the most respected architect of the Ottoman period, while the Hagia Sophia, previously a church, mosque and now museum, perfectly combines significant artifacts of two of the world’s biggest religions.
The list of historical landmarks goes on and on.
Major wars have been fought and many men have died for control of this strategic strait of water. The Byzantine Empire seriously neglected its importance, therefore helping the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed to take control of Constantinople and ultimately finish their reign.
In turn, the Ottoman Empire formed a fashion trend for the rich and fabulously wealthy to own summer houses (yalis) on the shores.These days, life is much quieter and the Bosphorus neighbourhoods can be explored on foot but I prefer cruising.
Whether it is a short 2 hour tour or a day’s trip to the mouth of the Black sea, Bosphorus cruises are normally on every list of the top “Things to Do in Istanbul”
Cruise ship visitors often gather a large crowd and hire their own boat so they have privacy at lower costs, while businesses are hosting more dinners and events on the water, rather than off it.
Life on the shores of the Bosphorus has and always will be a pivotal point of Istanbul’s characteristic appearance.
Has the old Ottoman trend for Bosphorus living seen a revival?
Downhill from the popular Taksim area, are the small neighbourhoods of Karakoy and Beyoglu. Within these areas, I particularly love the famous Genoese Galata tower, with its stunning panoramic view from the top, but anyone with a fear of heights will be immensely disturbed by the lack of crowd control, dodgy safety bars and the view of a 63 metre drop.
The streets are lined with boutique hotels, Jewish synagogues, the Jewish museum, quirky shops, the Istanbul modern art museum and we also found a small wine tasting shop, which delighted my alcoholic friends but head further downhill to reach Galata Bridge, famous for its fishermen and floating fish boats.
In a restaurant underneath the bridge, a 16 year-old waiter offended us with his corny attempts to bait himself a sugar mommy.
Our refusal may have resulted in an overpriced bill consisting of dishes that we never consumed but my point is, stay away from underneath the bridge and enjoy the vibes on top of it.
How to say “I love Istanbul” in Turkish?
Istanbul’u seviyorum
Say that and the locals will love you back!
Hamdi Kebap Restaurant (Istanbul) ; Hamdi’s southeastern kebaps is a good alternative to the overpriced mediocrity of Pandeli Lokantasi only steps from the entrance to the Egyptian Spice Market. The popular terrace views of Galata Tower and the Golden Horn add to the convenience of the location. (Kalçin Sok. 17,Eminonu Istanbul Phone: 0212 528 0390)
Ciya Sofrasi (Istanbul) ; This humble eatery, whose kitchen is headed by Musa Dagdeviren, formerly of the California branch of the Culinary Institute of America, has become an international phenomenon. It’s located up a busy market street near the Kadiköy ferry stop (on the Asian side; take the ferry to Kadiköy from Eminönü) and serves delectable and rare regional creations. (Günesli Bahçesi Sok. 43-44,Kadiköy/Istanbul Phone: 0216 330 3190)
Balikci Sebahattin (Istanbul) ; One of the few consistently good, high-quality restaurants in a neighborhood of amateurs, Balikçi Sabahattin is still cranking out top-quality treasures from the sea for eager fans. (Address: Seyit Hasan Koyu Sok. 1, Cankurtaran, Sultanahmet (behind Armada Hotel) Phone : 0212 458 1824)
Banyan Sea Side (Istanbul) ; This top floor hot spot takes full advantage of its position overlooking Ortaköy and the Bosphorus, with an amazing outdoor terrace that in the crisper months is heated by an open firepit and heat lamps. It also capitalizes on a hip menu that fuses Mediterranean staples with Asian accents. (Address :Salhane Sok 3, Muallim Naci Cad Ortaköy Phone :0 212 259 9060)
Degustasyon Lokantasi (Istanbul) ; In the midst of the confusion of Galatasaray Fish Market in Beyoglu, Degustasyon serves a huge selection of mezes. It’s just as full of life as the other nearby meyhanes, but slightly classier. And obviously, in deference to the location, the restaurant serves a good selection of fish. (Address: Sahne Sok. 41, Balikpazari, Beyoglu Phone ; 0 212 292 0667)
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