Istanbul

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Istanbul

Istanbul, the vibrant and fascinating city straddling Europe and Asia, is a must-visit destination for any traveller. From its stunning mosques and palaces to its bustling bazaars and street food, Istanbul has something to offer every kind of tourist.

Places to Visit

Historic Sites

  • Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya): A former Byzantine church, Ottoman mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia is an architectural wonder that showcases the city’s rich history. (£15-20, opens at 9am)
  • Topkapi Palace: The primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years, Topkapi Palace is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and art. (£10-15, opens at 9am)
  • Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): One of the most famous mosques in the world, the Blue Mosque is known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets. (free to visit, but donations welcome)

Bazaars

  • Grand Bazaar: With over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets to jewelry, the Grand Bazaar is a shopper’s paradise. (£10-15, opens at 9am)
  • Egyptian Spice Market: This charming bazaar is filled with aromatic spices, teas, and souvenirs. (free to visit)

Parks and Gardens

  • Emirgan Park: A beautiful park with stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait, Emirgan Park is perfect for a relaxing stroll. (£5-10)
  • Yıldız Park: This large park offers plenty of green space, walking trails, and picnic areas.

Museums

  • Istanbul Archaeological Museum: With over 1 million artifacts, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is one of the world’s largest and most important museums. (£5-10)
  • Pera Museum: This museum showcases a collection of art and artifacts related to the history of Pera, a historic neighborhood in Istanbul.

Activities

Food Tours

  • Street Food Tour: Join a guided tour to sample some of Istanbul’s delicious street food, including kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight. (£20-30)
  • Bakery and Pastry Tour: Explore the city’s pastry shops and bakeries, sampling traditional treats like simit, pastries, and cakes. (£15-25)

Shopping

  • Shopping in the Bazaars: Get ready to haggle your way through the bazaars, where you can find everything from souvenirs to luxury goods.
  • Shopping on Istiklal Avenue: This bustling street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Boat Tours

  • Bosphorus Cruise: Take a leisurely boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, offering stunning views of the city’s landmarks. (£10-20)
  • Princes’ Islands Tour: Visit the beautiful Princes’ Islands, a tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Where to Eat

Traditional Turkish Cuisine

  • Lale Restaurant: This cozy restaurant serves delicious traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs, stews, and pastries. (£10-20)
  • Kebab Çıkmazı: Try some of the best kebabs in town at this popular street food stall.

Seafood

  • Pera Palas Hotel Restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait at this upscale restaurant.
  • Sultanahmet Fish Market: This bustling market is filled with all sorts of seafood, including fresh fish, mussels, and more.

Bakeries

  • Hamdi Bakery: This family-owned bakery has been serving traditional Turkish bread and pastries for generations. (£5-10)
  • Karabiyik Bakery: Try some delicious simit, a crispy Turkish bread ring, at this popular bakery.

Where to Stay

Budget Options

  • Hostel Istanbul: This affordable hostel offers dorms and private rooms in the heart of the city.
  • Istanbul Backpackers Hostel: Another budget-friendly option with a social atmosphere and friendly staff.

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Sultanahmet Park Hotel: A comfortable hotel located near the Hagia Sophia, with clean rooms and friendly staff. (£20-30)
  • Hotel Taksim Istanbul: Enjoy stunning views of the city from this mid-range hotel, with modern rooms and a rooftop bar.

Luxury Hotels

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul: Treat yourself to the ultimate luxury experience at this 5-star hotel, with stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait.
  • Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet: Relax in style at this upscale hotel, with beautiful rooms and a spa.

Things to Know

Safety

  • Pickpocketing and scams are common in crowded areas, so be mindful of your belongings and avoid suspicious individuals.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, as credit cards and ATMs are widely available.

Weather

  • Istanbul has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for sudden rain showers during the summer months.
  • Winters can be chilly, so pack accordingly if you’re visiting between December and February.

Transportation

  • Walking is a great way to explore the city, but be mindful of pedestrian traffic and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night.
  • Buses and trams are an affordable option for shorter journeys. Use the official transportation app or buy an Istanbul Tourist Pass for unlimited travel.

Language

  • Turkish is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas. Still, it’s helpful to learn a few basic Turkish phrases like “Merhaba” (hello) and “Çok teşekkür ederim” (thank you).
  • Many restaurants and shops have English menus, but don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re unsure.

Tips

Haggling

  • Haggling is a way of life in Istanbul’s bazaars, so be prepared to negotiate prices. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right.
  • Learn some basic Turkish phrases like “Bu kadar yeter” (this is enough) or “Peki, anlaştık” (okay, we agree).

Photography

  • Be respectful of people and private property, especially in mosques and churches. Avoid taking pictures without permission.
  • Keep your camera equipment secure, as pickpocketing can be a problem in crowded areas.

Other Things to Know

Ramadan

  • Ramadan is the holy month of fasting for Muslims, which typically falls between May and June. Be respectful of local customs, especially during meal times.
  • Some businesses may close or have limited hours during this period, so plan accordingly.

Earthquakes

  • Istanbul is prone to earthquakes, with a significant risk in the region. Stay informed about earthquake updates and follow evacuation procedures if necessary.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure in Istanbul!