Sultanahmet, the Heart of
Old Istanbul
- Topkapi Palace, the centuries-old residence of the
Ottoman emperors, boasts its expansive courtyards, lush gardens, and
historical treasures, including the renowned Harem and the famous
Spoonmaker’s Diamond.
- Hagia Sophia, an iconic building that has served as
a church, mosque, and museum, is a must-visit. Its breathtaking
architecture, a harmonious blend of Byzantine and Ottoman elements,
leaves visitors in awe. (It’s about a 5-minute walk from the entrance of
Topkapi Palace).
- The Basilica Cistern is fascinating to explore,
with its eerie, atmospheric underground chamber and beautifully lit
columns. It’s a unique experience, especially if you’re interested in
Istanbul’s ancient water systems. (It’s just a 3-5 minute walk from
Hagia Sophia).
- Just a stone’s throw away, the Blue Mosque, with
its stunning blue tile interior and majestic dome, continues to be an
active place of worship. Be sure to check the prayer times before
visiting.
- Approximately a 30-minute walk from the Blue Mosque lies
Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest
covered markets. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of
Istanbul as you browse through a treasure trove of jewelry, spices, and
other wares.
Bosphorus and Modern
Istanbul
- Bosphorus Cruise: Start the day with a morning
cruise, seeing Istanbul’s skyline and famous sights like Kız Kulesi,
also known as the Maiden’s Tower, Dolmabahce Palace and the Rumeli
Fortress.
- Dolmabahce Palace: Visit the 19th-century palace,
known for its European opulence, with crystal chandeliers and stunning
décor.
- Ortaköy Neighborhood: Under the Bosphorus Bridge,
known for its vibrant nightlife and street food scene, especially the
famous “kumpir” (stuffed baked potatoes). There are trendy cafes,
galleries, and boutiques with amazing views of the Bosphorus Bridge,
which is beautifully lit up at night.
- Istiklal Street and Taksim Square:
Stroll down Istiklal Street, a lively pedestrian avenue with shops,
cafes, and galleries. Ride the historic red tram.
- Galata Tower: Walk to the tower for panoramic views
of Istanbul, built by the Genoese in the 14th century.
Asian Side
Taking a vapur (ferry) ride to
Kadiköy is a fantastic experience! It’s a popular and
affordable way to cross from the European side of Istanbul to the Asian
side. You can catch a ferry from several docks on the European side,
with the most popular one being from Eminönü, which is a short tram or
walk from Sultanahmet.
The ferry ride to Kadiköy usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Along
the way, you’ll get to see beautiful views of Istanbul’s skyline,
including landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Galata
Tower, as well as the Bosphorus itself. The best part is enjoying the
fresh sea breeze and maybe grabbing some Turkish tea or simit (a Turkish
bagel) on board, which vendors often sell on the ferry.
Once you arrive in Kadiköy, you’ll find a lively neighborhood with
plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants, and markets. It’s a great spot to
experience Istanbul’s Asian side, which has its own unique charm and a
more laid-back vibe than some of the tourist areas on the European
side.