The Istanbul Tourist Pass is one option on the tourism market that has been rapidly growing in popularity with visitors thanks to huge savings and a wide variety of attractions and experiences offered. After a few slow years, the tourism industry in Istanbul is up and running again at full pace! Tour operators pull out all the stops to offer visitors the best tours, packages, experiences and value for money possible. No matter your holiday … [Read more...]
Istanbul
The city of Istanbul in Turkey never fails to deliver when it comes to things to do, cultural experiences and historical attractions. From the old part of the city to bars in Taksim, I have listed all my experiences below. Browse through the articles to find out more and please leave a comment if you have anything to add or questions to ask.
4 Documentaries About Istanbul Worth Watching
Mert Gurel is a Turkish film enthusiast with a particular passion for interesting documentaries about Istanbul. This is natural, given that he lives and works in the bustling city. His job as a fixer for video productions means he sources everything that foreign and domestic companies need to make a good film or documentary in Turkey. Basically, he ties up the loose ends and helps them to make the story come together. Preferring documentaries … [Read more...]
Exploring the Neighbourhoods of Istanbul
When I first came to Turkey, despite knowing Istanbul was the country’s largest city and top visited tourist destination, nothing quite prepared me for realising just how intense the city really is. As well as being the centre ruling capitals for both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, the neighbourhoods of Istanbul each have their own story to tell. Indeed touring local suburbs is now a popular travel genre and Istanbul is no exception because … [Read more...]
The Fener and Balat Neighbourhoods of Istanbul
Growing popularity of the Internet in the last 20 years has changed the face of mainstream travel. Holidaymakers want to gain an insight into the lives of people in other countries, so authentic local experiences are now just as popular as package holidays and well known tourist attractions. In the bustling metropolis of Istanbul, this is proven in the growing interest of guided walking tours through neighbourhoods of which Fener and Balat are … [Read more...]
10 Things to Do on Istiklal Avenue in Istanbul
Istiklal Avenue in Istanbul is a busy street. In fact, it is the busiest street in Turkey. Also known as Istiklal Caddesi in Turkish or Independence Avenue in English, anyone visiting the city should spend at least a day exploring the 1.4-kilometer Street and all the side alleys leading off it. The street is busy from morning until night, and not only is it immaculately clean and uniformed but buildings have a historical tale to tell that mostly … [Read more...]
Good Reasons to Visit Yalova in Turkey
Foreign travellers tend to bypass Yalova in Turkey, but for many years, locals of Istanbul who want to escape city life for a few days, have favoured it as the ideal destination. Summer weekends when the children are off school are a traditional time for them to go. For city dwellers, Yalova offers everything including thermal springs, gorgeous landscapes, hiking, trekking and biking routes, and numerous campsites. So in this article by Bayram … [Read more...]
4 Gorgeous Budget Boutique Hotels in Istanbul
Istanbul, one of the top cities in the world, probably gains its popularity because of the wide diversity it offers in restaurants, bars, shopping, nightlife, food and, of course, accommodation. Luxury hotels offering the best service in overnight stays attract the rich and influential travellers but most of us; tend to gravitate towards budget friendly boutique hotels in Istanbul. One company specialising in budget boutique hotels in Istanbul … [Read more...]
Off The Beaten Path in Istanbul
If you have never been to Istanbul, I don’t recommend getting off the beaten path on your first visit, no matter how adventurous you are. To do so, you would miss all the magnificent attractions and landmarks of the Byzantine and Ottoman eras that Istanbul is famous for. If you're making a repeat visit or you find yourself with extra time, though, straying away from the main tourist sites is a good way to see Istanbul's diversity and … [Read more...]
A Travel Guide to Turkish History
From the first chapter, this travel guide to Turkish history by writer and poet, Richard Tillinghast had me hooked. He is the second author; I have read who uses one of my favourite styles to portray the history of Turkey by combining interviews and research with a personal story. I also give respect where it is due because Richard is not a newbie visitor to Istanbul or Turkey. He first visited the country in the 1960s when tourism was a … [Read more...]
8 of the Best Museums to Visit in Istanbul
I am a history enthusiast and have been eagerly compiling a list of the best museums to visit in Istanbul. This is quite an extensive task since there are hundreds of them in Turkey's largest city. However, it is possible for you to narrow down your choice of which ones to visit simply on your interest. For example, art museums have become particularly popular in the city during the last 10 years. Some like the Pera Pera museums can contribute … [Read more...]
Your Guide to Attractions of the Sultanahmet District of Istanbul
My favourite district in Istanbul is the Sultanahmet area, the hub of its historical timeline and former capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires. If nightlife and shopping is not on your city break agenda, then book your Istanbul hotel in Sultanahmet since all the major attractions and landmarks sit majestically in this district that is often called the heart of old Istanbul. Travel Itinerary Guide Time Needed: 2 days Type of … [Read more...]
Best 5 Hotels in Istanbul: The Sultanahmet District
The Sultanahmet District of Istanbul is the former capital of Constantinople and Byzantium making it one of the top visited neighbourhoods in Turkey. As the centre from where the Ottoman Sultans and Byzantine emperors ruled, it also sits proudly on the UNESCO World Heritage list. So it stands to reason, that most people when visiting Istanbul, want hotels in Sultanahmet district. Within walking distance to all attractions, choose from hundreds … [Read more...]
The Hagia Sophia of Istanbul : A Story of 3 Cities
The glorious and stunning Hagia Sophia of Istanbul! I have been twice and I would go again and again. The former church, mosque and now official museum has a saintly ambiance combined with Byzantine and Islamic architecture. Sitting in the old city part of Istanbul called Sultan Ahmet, it joins other nearby landmarks belonging to the UNESCO World heritage list for Turkey. The large dome, Christian frescoes and Islamic calligraphy adorning … [Read more...]
8 Unusual and Cool Things to do in Istanbul
Istanbul, an iconic city and the most popular tourist destination in Turkey, has immense dignity and pride. The cultural infusion of various communities, modern influences, and its historical timeline is impossible to ignore. Most travel publications have detailed articles about things to do in Istanbul. They normally involve shopping in the historical Grand Bazaar, visiting Ottoman palaces, admiring the architecture of Hagia Sophia and delving … [Read more...]
Grand Bazaar of Istanbul : Photos & Shopping Guide
The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is a lot more than your average shopping mall. Shopkeepers are not shy about letting you know they want your money and will do their best to get it. Sixty streets covered with thousand of shops can be overwhelming if you are not a hard core shopper. On my first visit to the Grand Bazaar, I spent most of my time staring at the rush with my mouth open! The crowds were too much and I didn't buy anything. My second … [Read more...]
6 Suggestions of Food to Eat in Istanbul
With its mixture of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences and its bountiful fresh produce, it’s no surprise that Istanbul has established itself as a mecca for foodies from across the globe. From tender, perfectly spiced kebabs to indulgent sweet pastries, the diversity of potential food to eat is mind boggling. This popular vacation spot is perfect for a culinary tour, and if you want to know what to eat while you’re there, look at this … [Read more...]
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 … [Read more...]
Attractions of the Bosphorus : To Cruise or Walk?
The Bosphorus strait of water in Istanbul has been strategically important throughout history. Linking the east and the west, many empires have waged war to gain control of it.These days, urban neighbourhoods are a strong feature on both the Asian and European sides and the Bosphorus has grown to be a busy trading passage for large tankers and ships. As a major tourist attraction of Istanbul, it is worth dedicating at least a day for exploration … [Read more...]
20 Pictures From the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul
The Topkapi palace of Istanbul, Turkey can be either a photographers dream or an absolute nightmare. Built in 1478, when the city was called Constantinople, the former home of the Ottoman sultans is a mass of courtyards, rooms, and elaborate décor. It did at one stage, when still in use, become a mini city so this is an indication of its large size. For me, the visit was a nightmare. There are plenty of potential subjects that make damn good … [Read more...]
8 Things I Love about City Breaks in Istanbul
In my quest to travel to every town, city, and village of Turkey, it is not often that I return to a destination. Once I have been there, I strike it off my list and start planning a visit to the next location. The one exception to this rule is the bustling and culturally mixed city of Istanbul. Once known as Constantinople, I have returned three times and will continue to return, quite possibly until the day I die. It is too busy and big to … [Read more...]
A Photographer’s Guide to Istanbul’s Most Impressive Landscapes and Locations
Guest post by Joel Stubbs If you are a keen photographer, a holiday is an adventure where you get to explore rather than taking a time-out for rest and relaxation. When planning a trip to Turkey, you need to visit its largest city, Istanbul. Take a look below at some of our suggestions of the best places to get some great photography in and around Istanbul. Basillica Cistern The Basilica Cistern is an atmospheric underground waterway that … [Read more...]
A Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul
The thought of a Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul did not fill me with excitement. Winter is not the ideal time to be sitting on a boat, shivering with cold. However, every Istanbul travel expert recommended it as a “must do activity” so it was on my bucket list. The problem was the cost. Local agents sold tickets priced at fifty Euro or more. They promised an elaborate dinner and an evening show but I was on a budget. Then while wandering around … [Read more...]
The Shoe Shine Scam of Istanbul
Note - The shoe shiners featured in the photographs of this article did not scam me and never used any of the techniques that are listed below. They were friendly shoe shiners who agreed for their photograph to be taken and used. This article is not implying they are part of this scam. One Turkish tradition I have always admired is the shoe shiner. Sitting on busy streets with their small stools and Ottoman style boxes, they ply their trade … [Read more...]
The Galata Mevlevi House and Museum
Whirling dervishes fascinate me. Belonging to the order of Sufism, they dedicate themselves to a life of poverty and spinning around, the latter of which I do not understand. Other people take hard-core drugs to achieve the same euphoric state of mind that the whirling dervishes achieve by going around and around in circles. They detach themselves from the here and now, to reach a state of religious ecstasy that I think can be achieved in … [Read more...]
14 Famous Landmarks of Istanbul
Istanbul is a huge city with thousands of landmarks. Most of them are historic buildings dating back hundreds of years, especially to the Byzantine and Ottoman Empire. Some landmarks are more famous than others are, but all serve one common purpose as an identifiable object on the horizon. Here are my 14 favourite postcard style pictures of some landmarks in Istanbul. Famous Landmarks of Istanbul 1 - The Hagia Sophia is a former church, … [Read more...]
Miniaturk Istanbul
Miniaturk in Istanbul bought out the kid in me. I enjoyed it so much, and plan to go back one day. If you find yourself traveling through Istanbul then be sure to go to the Miniaturk park. Whilst it is not as exciting to see, as the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia, it is still a fun day out. For this post I wanted to update my knowledge as it was four years ago that I went to Istanbul Miniaturkpark. I have just looked at the Miniaturk website and … [Read more...]
St. Anthony of Padua Church in Istanbul
I was quite pleased to come across the St. Anthony of Padua church while in Istanbul. I had seen it mentioned in guidebooks but did not plan on visiting, until I found myself right outside. Located on Istiklal Avenue, behind a large set of iron gates, it is an impressive building dating back to 1906. It also has the status of being the largest, fully functioning church in Istanbul. The sudden decision to enter also led my ignorance to be put on … [Read more...]
French Street in Istanbul
My desire to find French street in Istanbul started when I read an article that described it as French influence in Turkey. The equivalent of China town in New York. I imagined a chance to experience two cultures within one destination. My interest had spiked. The nearest insight I have gained of France was passing through on a coach ride to and from Germany, so I placed French street on my list of things to do. However once I arrived in … [Read more...]
An Exotic Honeymoon in Istanbul
As newly-weds hunt across the globe for honeymoon destinations that offer breathtaking scenery and romantic culture, few know of the hidden eccentricities that Istanbul holds. A fruitful and lengthy history of four separate empires (Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman) permeates throughout the metropolis to offer a rich, layered aesthetic experience in architecture, landscape, music, cuisine, and art. However, you’d be wrong to regard it as a … [Read more...]
Dolmabahce Palace : Last Historic Days of the Ottoman Empire
Out of all the sites to see in Istanbul, the most intriguing has to be the grand and impressive Dolmabahce Palace. Home to the last six sultans of the abolished Ottoman Empire; it portrays everything that was right and wrong about their rule and reign for over 600 years. While it is easy to be in awe at the architecture and historical tales of their conquered lands, I simply had to wonder if any ruler, person or family deserved to live in such … [Read more...]
How to Get From Ataturk Airport to Istanbul City Centre
Please note: Ataturk airport is now closed. Transfers from the New Istanbul Airport can be found here. Istanbul is the top visited destination in Turkey. So imagine the millions of foreign tourists that it receives every year! There are two airports in Istanbul but Ataturk airport is the busiest and most tourists will arrive via that route. Transport from the airport to hotels or the city centre is easy, because there are five … [Read more...]
Istanbul City Pictures in Black & White
To start this series, I wanted to share my Istanbul pictures and was undecided as to whether black and white was the right format to do it. After all, Istanbul is a colourful and vibrant city so pictures should reflect that. However, when I visited in January of this year, constant rain and even snow meant there no blue skies or sunny backgrounds in my photos. The benefit though was that the dark skies made for interesting pictures in black and … [Read more...]
Galata Bridge : The Happening Place to Be
For the thousands of people every year who head to the impressive city of Istanbul, the first question that is often on their mind is “Where are the happening places to head to?” This slang term is also always at the front of my mind, no matter where in Turkey I travel. I want to know where the locals hang out. I want to observe a busy and vibrant atmosphere that gives me a great insight into the place that I am in. I want to know the places … [Read more...]
Flower Passage in Istanbul and Portraits From The Past
My visit to Flower Passage in Istanbul, Turkey was unexpected but it turned out to be one of my favourite places. Two friends, now used to my obsession with photography and history suggested it as an ideal place to have lunch. Situated on Istiklal Avenue, and known to the Turks as Çiçek Pasaj, it is a place to eat, drink, and be merry. Therefore, you may think I recommend Çiçek Pasaj as a great watering hole. Well, I will not because our meal … [Read more...]
Galata Tower and a 360-Degree View of Istanbul
Exploring the bustling city of Istanbul is a great experience but to see it from up high is something completely different. In my opinion, the best place to do this is Galata tower, a landmark that dominates the skyline. Six years ago, I went to the tower to attend a Turkish show at nighttime. I could see lights from buildings, dotted across the horizon, and the lights of traffic moving, but that was it and I desperately wanted to return … [Read more...]
The Basilica Cistern of Istanbul and the Heads of Medusa
I walked down 55 stone steps, sensing dampness in the air when I reached the bottom and the Basilica cistern. The only sounds were whispers from tourists and the odd drip of water. A shop stand was in the far left corner and they beckoned me over. For a small amount of Turkish lira, I could dress up as an Ottoman princess and go home with a photograph souvenir. The disapproving look on my face showed that I felt this trade to be rather tacky and … [Read more...]
Sensus Wine Boutique Shop in Galata : Drinking in Istanbul
“Save water – Drink Wine” became the motto of our last girl’s weekend in Istanbul. It all started when I was stood at the open top of the Galata tower, which is an impressive 66 meters tall. I had a raging hangover from the night before and the fresh air combined with a fear of heights, prompted thoughts that I was going to puke! My phone was ringing which provided a temporary distraction. It was my close friend Debra Debra – “when you have … [Read more...]
Bars in Taksim – Nightlife For Females and Foreigners
I am not a night-time person any more. I like to wake up early and go to bed early. My partying days are well and truly behind me. However when visiting one of the greatest cities of the world i.e. Istanbul – I decided to try the night-life. The bustling Istiklal Avenue is one area staying busy until the early hours of the morning so that is where I headed, along with two female friends. Stay Away From Pavyons Another friend warned me to … [Read more...]