Letter from Türkiye: Istanbul, Crossroads of Continents and Colors of Life

My dear travelers and lovers of unusual journeys, welcome to the travelogue from the series of posts from Turkey on the Mr.M blog. The month of July will be dedicated to the Turkish metropolis of Istanbul, which is located in a transcontinental strange country in Southwest Asia, while a smaller part is located in Southeast Europe. The greater part is in Anatolia (Asia), and the smaller part is in Eastern Thrace (Europe). At the very beginning of today’s travelogue about the capital Istanbul, I would recommend you to take your favorite drink, snacks or your favorite candy, relax and enjoy today’s travelogue about the Turkish metropolis, the crossroads of continents and the colors of life.

TURKISH AIRLINES AND AN UNFORGETTABLE STOPOVER IN ISTANBUL

How did I come to Istanbul this time? On my way to faraway Venezuela, I had the opportunity to take advantage of one of the most practical and useful perks offered by Turkish Airlines, their famous Stopover Program in Istanbul. This program is ideal for travelers who have a layover in Istanbul and want to explore one of the most exciting cities in the world during their trip, completely free of charge. Turkish Airlines offers free hotel accommodation in luxury hotels for business and economy class passengers, which is a fantastic opportunity to get to know the city at no extra cost.

During my stopover, I took advantage of every opportunity to experience Istanbul to the fullest, from a leisurely stroll through Taksim Square, a luxurious break at Divan Istanbul Hotel, to unforgettable sunsets over the Bosphorus in Maçka Park. This was the perfect opportunity to slow down and absorb the history and spirit of the city, before continuing on to Latin America.

For all those planning longer intercontinental trips via Istanbul, I sincerely recommend exploring the Turkish Airlines Stopover Istanbul option. Not only will you get the chance to discover the magnificent Istanbul, but you will turn the trip into an even richer experience that will inspire and leave you breathless.

ISTANBUL: JOURNEY THROUGH EAST AND WEST

Istanbul is the largest city of Turkey and the center of its cultural and economic life. With more than 15 million inhabitants, it spans two continents: Europe and Asia. It combines centuries of history and modern urban scenes, making it a fascinating travel destination. From ancient Byzantium and Constantinople to today’s Istanbul, this city was the capital of as many as four empires (Roman/Byzantine and Ottoman) and today its historical landmarks form the core of world cultural heritage.

Istanbul is characterized by a unique geographical position: two coasts are separated by the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara, and three magnificent bridges connect the European and Asian sides. The city covers more than 1,500 km², along a hilly coast and numerous bays. A walk through its streets leads through a combination of tradition and modernity, so, for example, in the afternoon you will be able to drink Turkish coffee in the garden in front of the ancient walls of Hagia Sophia, and in the evening enjoy a concert by contemporary artists on Taksim Square. Istanbul is also the economic and cultural center of Turkey, home to many universities, museums, theaters and festivals. That’s why I start this guide on the Two Shores: through Taksim Square, elegant Nişantaşi and historic Sultanahmet, and end with useful tips for all those planning to visit Istanbul soon.

ISTANBUL: HISTORICAL CONTEXT

Istanbul has been the meeting point of East and West for centuries. During its history, it bore many names: Byzantium, Constantinople, Constantinople, and after 1453 it became Istanbul. Since the year 330, when the Roman emperor Constantine the Great declared New Rome (Constantinople) as the capital, the city has constantly grown and changed its shape. Under the Ottomans, Istanbul was the main imperial seat until the beginning of the 20th century, when the new Republic changed its capital to Ankara. It is not difficult to find traces of this rich past: Justinian’s basilicas and cisterns, colorful Byzantine mosaics or sumptuous Ottoman palaces. It seems that every era leaves its mark on architecture and culture here, it is through every street and building that a part of history is told.

Today, Istanbul is a major world metropolis, but its streets still exude the splendor of old times and a long history. The very mention of Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque evokes memories of the imperial legacies that built them. On the other hand, the economic and cultural life of Istanbul is ultramodern. Turks often call it a city with many faces in one, here at every step you can enjoy a local Turkish feast, and then unexpectedly go to a party with a DJ after midnight. However, as you walk through the squares and parks of Istanbul, you feel that the spirit of the centuries-old tradition of the Ottoman Empire surrounds you.

TAKSIM SQUARE AND SURROUNDINGS

Taksim Square in the Beyoğlu district is the modern heart of Istanbul. This central city square is surrounded by restaurants, shops and hotels, so it is often called the main tourist and entertainment center. On the square itself stands the monument of the Republic (built in 1928), erected on the occasion of the 5th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkey. The square is bordered by the Marmara Hotel to the south, the Atatürk Cultural Center (opera and concert hall) to the east, the small Gezi Park to the north and the new Taksim Mosque (to the west). Due to its central location, Taksim is often the site of mass gatherings, concerts and city celebrations, for example, a huge New Year’s fireworks display is regularly organized right here.

Most importantly, Taksim is also a transportation hub: the square intersects the M2 metro line (which goes to the Levent business district), the modern F1 funicular line (Kabataş–Taksim, operating since 2006) which takes only 110 seconds to reach the coast, as well as countless buses and minibuses. That’s why Taksim is the perfect starting point for a city tour, it’s easy to get to the Old Town, Galata Tower or even to the Asian side by ferry from Karaköy.

Taksim is also known for its lively nightlife. Already around dusk, the streets come alive: locals and tourists from all over Istanbul walk along Istiklal Avenue, sit in cafe gardens and listen to street musicians. There are many small cinemas, colorful shops and theaters in the surrounding area. Street performers and accordionists put on impromptu performances along the streets, and the pubs never stop after midnight. There will often be trumpet players, jazz players or Turkish folk music players, all for your good entertainment and to create some new memories..

• Istiklal Street (Independence Avenue): the main pedestrian area that starts at Taksim and continues towards the old Tunnel Station. It is about 1.4 km long, full of shops, galleries, cafes and theaters, and is represented by the charming nostalgic red tram that plies this street. Today, this vintage tram with wooden carriages works more as a tourist attraction, but still authentically evokes the spirit of the early 20th century, don’t miss to take a photo or video during the ride.
• Gezi Park: a small urban park just north of Taksim. It is a favorite place for rest and refreshment in the shade of old treetops. Gezi Park also gained fame as the site of large protests in 2013, when citizens defended it from construction, symbolizing civil disobedience and activism. Even if you’re not into protests, the park will seem like a peaceful green oasis in the middle of the city, surrounded by benches, walking paths and a fountain.
• Nostalgic Red Tram: a traditional wooden tram that runs from Taksim to Tunnel station (opened in 1875). Although today it serves more tourists, this tram fills the air with the sound of bells and takes passengers back to the spirit of the early 20th century. As it passes through the main street of Taksim, it also provides an ideal opportunity for beautiful photos, and little things like the timber and the sound of the locomotive make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time in a time machine.
• Taksim Mosque: a new mosque built in 2017 on the square itself, with a shining dome and four minarets. Although a relatively new building, it connects with the historical environment and serves the local Muslim community. With its illuminated facade in the evening, it perfectly complements the panorama of the square, and it immediately became a gathering place for believers, opening another dimension of Istanbul architecture at this intersection.

Taksim is also known for its large shopping mall, the MetroCity shopping center, and its lively evening entertainment in the surrounding clubs. In a word, this square is a real microtopia of the city with history, good shopping, an interesting and rich offer of restaurants and nightlife.

Hotel Divan Istanbul

Just a few steps from Taksim Square, next to the green Gezi Park, is the famous Hotel Divan Istanbul. This 5* luxury hotel was opened in 1956 and is the capital of the Divan hotel group. Built with the intention of combining oriental charm and western elegance, the rooms and interiors exude a classic style of dark wood, richly woven curtains and warm lighting, while the service emphasizes attention to guests.

Divan Istanbul hotel is often described as one of the most exclusive places in the city, perfectly blended into the lively surroundings of Taksim Square. For a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, the hotel has a spa center and swimming pool with a view of Gezi Park, as well as elegant cocktail bars. Due to its location, the hotel is extremely practical: from here in less than five minutes you can reach countless cafes and restaurants on Istiklal Street, as well as the main city attractions. He is especially appreciated by businessmen and diplomats, it was once even said that Divan was the first choice of official delegations during international conferences. In addition, Divan gained a reputation as a humane host: during the 2013 protests, he opened his doors to injured protesters and medical personnel, thus becoming a symbol of support and courage in difficult times.

Divan Istanbul hotel is a haven of luxury with a historical pedigree and it remains one of the must-see addresses for visitors to Istanbul. In addition to a room with a panoramic view, you can also enjoy a fantastic Turkish breakfast. The wonderful Istanbul hotel is, quite simply, glamor in miniature: top-notch service and ambience, just as the city itself brings two worlds together.

NIŞANTAŞI: SHOPPING AND LUXURY ZONE

Nisantasi is a prestigious residential and shopping district in the Şişli municipality on the European side of Istanbul. The district includes four neighborhoods: Teşvikiye, Maçka, Osmanbey and Pangaltı, with its center around the luxurious Teşvikiye Street. This part of the city has always been synonymous with high-end shopping: on Nişantaşı you will find long avenues full of boutiques of famous fashion brands, as well as exclusive cafes and restaurants. Long Abdi İpekçi Avenue and the surrounding streets are adorned with contemporary art galleries and boutique arcades, this part of Istanbul has a reputation as a modern fashion center.

In contrast to the colorful and noisy markets in the old town, Nişantaşi exudes a quiet elegance. The streets are more orderly and cleaner, and the shops are airy and well-lit. You will often see bright colors, while the collections of prestigious luxury fashion houses arrive through the windows of boutiques, while classy Turkish women from high society pass by with expensive bags, who will glance under their elegant hats if you catch their attention with your outfit combination. In Nişantaşı, there is a mix of local wealthy families walking their children and young businessmen in suits who work here. What makes this neighborhood special is the mix of cultures: examples of contemporary design are found next to traditional cuisines (many restaurants also offer international cuisine), and English, Arabic and Turkish are often heard in the air. So it gives the impression of an unobtrusive international avenue, and the meeting here will surprise you, like meeting Arab tourists leaving the Gucci store or a Turkish family in the Vakko fashion concept cafe.

• Shopping and Fashion: Nişantaşi is a paradise for shoppers, the streets are overflowing with boutiques of famous designers and luxury department stores. Fashion lovers can find everything here: from elegant dresses and men’s suits, to leather jackets and bags, to top-quality jewelry and watches. The atmosphere is polished and sophisticated: vendors are ready to offer exclusive treatment, and many fashion salons have a special type of tailoring service. If you like to combine shopping with coffee, know that there are often beautiful gardens and pastry shops where you can relax with a cake.
• Architecture and Atmosphere: Walking through Nişantaşı is like visiting an open architecture museum. Luxurious villas and residential buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries are well preserved, combined with oriental and European ornaments. The streets are wide, lit by trees, and beautiful balconies and facades watch you from every window. The neighborhood exudes sophistication, restaurants and cafes have comfortable gardens with panoramic views, while revelers stroll calmly along the promenades. This is primarily a high style zone: many fashion events and exhibitions take place right here, so it is not unusual to meet some famous people coming out of restaurants or cafes.

• Park and Greenery: Just a few hundred meters south of the bustling streets of Nişantaşi, there is a large green Maçka Park. This is a favorite place for families and recreationists: dense canopies of oak and plane trees provide shade, and the lawns are ideal for a picnic. The park is criss-crossed by stone paths, with a couple of benches and children’s playgrounds, so that you have a natural environment in addition to shopping. In the spring it is decorated with beautiful candles, and in the warmer months it is perfect for a morning run. After a good shopping spree in the boutiques, many locals like to stop here for coffee or tea and a short break in the green oasis.
• Monument to Abdi İpekçi: Near the Teşvikiye Mosque, next to the main street, there is a sculpture dedicated to Abdi İpekçi, a famous Turkish journalist and editor of the Milliyet newspaper. He was killed by an attacker in this place in 1979, and a two-meter-high monument honors his fight for media freedom. Locals often lay flowers and light candles next to the statue, and passers-by stop and remember the important social changes that Istanbul has gone through. This place has become a symbol of democracy and a reminder of the strength of citizens.

Nişantaşi, in short, is a neighborhood for those who like a chic environment with a calm rhythm. Here, the spirit of Istanbul rests in a stunning blend of old and new, each street offering new ideas for style and inspiration. Remember, wherever you go, you can be sure to be blown away by the sophistication of this chic neighborhood.

The Maçka Park and the Cable Car Ride

Maçka is a forested hill and park that extends south of Nişantaşı. In the deep valleys of the park there are pleasant hiking trails, sports fields and children’s playgrounds, a real little paradise for picnickers. Dense oaks and sycamore trees stretch over the wooden benches, the smell of pine fills the air, and the view from the top illuminates the skyline of Istanbul and the shores of the Bosphorus. In the spring, this place is flooded with flowers, and in the summer it is a cool oasis, ideal for escaping the city heat. Many locals like to spend weekends in the Maçka Park, on a picnic, where you can hear the laughter of family gatherings. In autumn, the atmosphere is interesting, when the leaves change colors, and in the colder months, sometimes, the first snow falls on Maçka, making the scene even more magical.

A special attraction is the cable car (A special attraction is the cable car (Teleferik Tf-1) that connects the station in Maçka Park with the Taşkışla station on the top of the hill, near Taksim Square. During the ride, the cabin passes over a canyon about 42 meters deep, offering a panoramic view of the park and surrounding areas. Cable car F1 (Kabatash-Taksim line) was put into operation in 2006 and in just 110 seconds it transports passengers from the coast of the Sea of Marmara to the very heart of Taksim.

Many tourists combine trips: first they walk in the park, then board the cable car to Taksim, and then take a leisurely walk back through Nişantaşi. In this way, they get both a natural tour and a panoramic experience high above the city.) that connects the station in Maçka Park with the Taşkışla station on the top of the hill, near Taksim Square. During the ride, the cabin passes over a canyon about 42 meters deep, offering a panoramic view of the park and surrounding areas. Cable car F1 (Kabatash-Taksim line) was put into operation in 2006 and in just 110 seconds it transports passengers from the coast of the Sea of Marmara to the very heart of Taksim. Many tourists combine trips: first they walk in the park, then board the cable car to Taksim, and then take a leisurely walk back through Nişantaşi. In this way, they get both a natural tour and a panoramic experience high above the city.

Local events, theatrical or musical performances under the open sky are often organized in the Maçka Park, especially in the summer season. In fact, Maçka is one of the few city parks where you can occasionally hear an orchestra or watch small dance ensembles in front of an audience on the lawn. This is a favorite area for children too: memories from the playground and paths mean clean airways, and every bench offers a place to enjoy Turkish biscuits and the view. Whether you are looking for recreation or a peaceful walk, Maçka will provide you with a precious respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

SULTANAHMET: THE HISTORICAL CORE OF ISTANBUL

Sultanahmet is the historical core of Istanbul, located on the slopes of the former Byzantine capital. The biggest historical attractions of the city are located here on a small area: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace and many others. This part of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with all its mosques, churches and gardens. Exploring Sultanahmet is like traveling through time, as soon as you visit one monument, another one appears in front of you with a courtyard full of antiquities. The states have left layers of stories, so we recommend dedicating at least a whole day to this neighborhood.

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayı): A huge underground tank from the Byzantine era, and one of the most fascinating museums in Istanbul. The entrance leads into a huge hall covered with a low vault, which is supported by 336 columns, each column a copy of a classical colonnade. Inside, there is silence and soft lighting, and water drips from the ceiling into the shallow pool below. The most famous are the two columnar reliefs in the shape of Medusa (Gorgone) on the end columns. Reflecting in the water, you have the impression that you are at the bottom of the old palladium hall. The goal of the visit is on the contrary, peace and shade are a welcome respite after a hot day. When you climb back up the stairs to the surface, you feel your clothes slip, all the dust of Istanbul remains in the forgotten underground.

Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya): Once a large Christian basilica, built in 537 for Emperor Justinian, later turned into a mosque, and in the 20th century into a museum. Hagia Sophia is without a doubt a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture: its huge dome seems to float over the huge lobby, while the interior is enriched with golden mosaics and marble columns. It is interesting that Islamic elements were also installed over the centuries, along with Christian frescoes, Arabic inscriptions can now be seen, which makes this building a unique mixture. Due to its size and historical importance, Hagia Sophia has always symbolized Istanbul, and its opulent ambience leaves everyone breathless.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): An impressive early 17th-century mosque (built 1609-1617), named for the tens of thousands of blue ceramic tiles from the city of İznik that adorn its interior. According to its design, it has as many as six minarets, which makes it unusual among other mosques (which had not been seen before, so this detail immediately attracted attention). The interior is dominated by cold blue tones and stained glass windows that contribute to the lighting, while the entire structure exudes the harmony of symmetry. The spacious courtyard in front of the mosque is often filled with worshipers and tourists, and is especially lively during prayers. In 1985, the Blue Mosque was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List together with the surrounding monuments. Visitors must remove their shoes upon entry, and women are often offered scarves to cover their shoulders if they come undressed. Although it is an active religious building, please be consistent and quietly observe the prayer times when visiting.

Hippodrome (At Meydanı): Once a grandiose circus playground of the Byzantine Empire, today it is a wide square in front of the Blue Mosque surrounded by palm trees and benches. Chariot races and parades used to take place there, but now you will be greeted by only a few old monuments: the Egyptian Obelisk (brought from Luxor around 1450 BC), the Serpent Column (marked around 350 BC) and the German Fountain (donated by Philip Wilhelm in 1898). Tourists often take pictures next to these antiquities, while children run among the remains of the old imperial throne. The hippodrome is the place where the empire used to be of glory and victory, and today it is a meeting place, where the Educators play billiards among the colonnades or look at the beautiful buildings of the surrounding greats.

Topkapi Palace: The main Ottoman palace of the sultans from the 15th-19th century. century, located on a hill above the Golden Horn. Built in 1459, it served as the Sultan’s official residence until the mid-19th century, when it was replaced by newly renovated palaces on the coast. The complete complex of Topkapi Palace consists of four courtyards: from the public rooms with the winter hall and island gardens, to the intimacy of the harem and the imperial treasury. Today, the entire complex has been turned into a museum, you can see the imperial chambers covered with priceless treasures, perfectly preserved harem rooms and courtyards overlooking the sea. The treasure museum is especially interesting, where the royal jewelry, jewels, and relics dedicated to the prophet Muhammad are kept. Topkapi offers a unique insight into the opulence of the life of the Ottoman sultans.

OTHER SIGHTS OF ISTANBUL

In addition to the main areas of Sultanahmet and Taksim, Istanbul abounds with other attractions that often delight visitors:

Prince’s Islands (Adalar): Nine peaceful islands in the Sea of Marmara, accessible by ferry from Istanbul. The largest is Büyükada (Big Island), where cars are prohibited, instead traffic is carried out by traditional wooden carriages and bicycles. The islands are known for the charm of old wooden colonial architecture and pine forests. Those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city often spend a day on the islands: hire a bicycle or a carriage for sightseeing, enjoy a drive through the bucolic streets and spend a day swimming at the nearby beaches. At the top of the Big Island there is a view of Istanbul in the distance, while at the bottom there are restaurants along the beach with a view of the sunset. Returning by ferry to the same port offers the opportunity to enjoy the color of the sky over the city again at dusk.

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi): Medieval stone lookout in the old part of Beyoğlu. It was built in 1348 by Genoese trading colonists as a transmitter and observation tower. Today, the Galata Tower is a museum and one of the favorite tourist attractions because of the panoramic view of the city from the top. From its height of about 62 meters, a spectacular panoramic view is offered, you can see the Golden Horn, the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, numerous palm trees and ships on the Bosphorus in one shot. At the top of the tower there is a café-restaurant, where visitors sit with coffee and wait for the sunset surrounded by panoramic lighting. Galata Tower is a favorite photo spot, perched on a high hill, it offers a “top view” of most of Istanbul.

Kapalıçarşı (Grand Bazaar): One of the largest and oldest covered bazaars in the world. Built in the middle of the 15th century, this “famous gate” occupies about 30,000 m² and consists of 61 labyrinthine alleys with more than 4,000 shops. Here you can literally find everything you want: Turkish-made carpets and rugs, gold and silver jewelry, leather jackets, ceramics and glass handicrafts, electronic devices and the inevitable souvenirs with Turkish motifs. Kapaličaršija is lively and colorful, sellers are emphatically offering their goods, and the air is mixed with the scents of spices, coffee and leather. It is flooded with tourists and locals every day. If you like to get lost in the shops, you’ll enjoy it here: bargaining is part of the game, and every now and then it’s good to try baklava and rahat lokum at one of the stalls.

Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar: A traditional indoor market specializing in spices, dried fruits and sweets. Known as Mısır Çarşısı, it was built in the 1660s alongside the New Mosque (Yeni Cami) complex on Eminönü. It consists of about 85 small shops and stalls that entice with all possible colors and smells: from saffron, cardamom and cinnamon, to dried figs and pistachios to sweets such as baklava, rahat lokum and oriental cookies. Every corner of the bazaar exudes the warmth of the Orient: colorful lamps and lanterns hang from the ceiling, and fresh scents of tea waft overhead. The Egyptian bazaar is the second most visited indoor market in Istanbul after the Kapaliçarşı, even if you don’t buy anything, walking through it is a real sensory experience.

Dolmabahçe Castle: A large and luxurious imperial palace from the second half of the 19th century, on the European shore of the Bosphorus. It was built in 1856 during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I, to replace the old Topkapi Palace, and represents a mixture of Ottoman and European styles in architecture. The interior of the palace is breathtaking: sumptuous ballrooms are decorated with gold, marble and huge crystal chandeliers (among them the largest bohemian chandelier in the world). Dolmabahçe is the largest Ottoman palace, covering 45,000 m² with 285 rooms and 46 representative halls. The gardens of the palace run down to the sea itself, with steps leading down to the shore, and are often filled with beautiful flowers. Arriving in Dolmabahçe feels like staying in Ottoman Versailles, the opulence and grandeur leave a strong impression.

Bosphorus Cruise: An unmissable attraction in Istanbul is sailing on the Bosphorus, the Turkish strait that connects the Marmara Sea with the Black Sea and divides the city into Europe and Asia. The boat ride usually departs from Eminönü or Kabataş port. During the cruise you will see on both sides of the famous coast: luxurious palaces (Dolmabahçe, Ortaköy Mosque and others), huge houses and towers on the water, as well as red pinoys crossing the Bosphorus (First and Fatih Sultan Mehmet bridges). Many tours also offer evening cruises, when the illuminated shores and bridges sparkle in front of you like a fairy tale scene. A Bosphorus cruise is the perfect blend of romantic and panoramic: as you sit on deck with Turkish tea and a local fish sandwich (balık ekmek), the whole city glides past you and seems unreal.

TURKISH CUISINE AND LOCAL DISHES

Istanbul is also a gastronomic paradise, the cuisine combines Mediterranean and oriental flavors. Be sure to try the kebab (meat grilled on a spit or burgers), different types of skewers with a bun, as well as köfte (seasoned meatballs). For starters or dessert, the famous baklava, thin puff pastry with ground walnuts, soaked in syrup. Among the specialties are sarma (pepper stuffed with rice and spices) and imam bajaldi (eggplant stuffed with vegetables and basil). Breakfast is often plentiful and includes meze, a combination of cheese, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers and thin breads (simiti), with tea or strong Turkish coffee. Street food plays an important role: try a simit (a ring of pastry sprinkled with sesame) with a coffee or a lahmacun (a thin pie with minced meat and vegetables) topped with lemon.

Districts such as Nişantaşı or Beşiktaş are also home to trendy restaurants and high-class cafes. However, the most authentic meals await you in old-fashioned lokantas (family restaurants) where local Turkish cuisine is served, from stews to roast lamb in an earthenware dish. For a snack, be sure to try pickles, ace with young cheese or Turkish ice cream (dondurma) with a dish. Turkish tea (black, strong, served in small cups) or ayran (salty yogurt-tasty drink) is often drunk with the meal. Turkish tea is served at any time of the day basically, here tea is king and coffee is the honor of the guests. After the meal, many people drink Turkish coffee and a cup of caramel or aromatic lokum. Be prepared to leave a tip (typically 5-10% of the bill) in restaurants, it’s considered normal for waiters.

Tips for visitors

Istanbul is a city open to visitors, but like any big city, it requires basic caution. Keep valuables safe, especially in crowded places (trams and bazaars). I recommend you to get Istanbulkart – a universal prepaid card for public transport (buy it at a kiosk, from street vendors and you can top it up at metro stations or kiosks). With Istanbulkart, you pay for the tram, metro, boat and buses at a favorable rate. Taxis are yellow and everywhere, make sure the driver turns on the meter. Prices in hotels and restaurants are usually expressed in Turkish lira, but it is also common to pay in euros or dollars (there are exchange offices all over the city). In restaurants, the service bill usually includes a tip, but it’s not out of place to leave extra if you’re satisfied with the service.

When visiting mosques and religious buildings, it is advisable to dress decently, women should cover their shoulders and knees (headscarves will always be offered to you at the entrance), and men should wear longer pants. Photography is allowed in most places, but take care of the worshipers (the so-called respect of sacred spaces), it is important to know that during prayer and in religious places, be calm and put the camera away.

Visits to Istanbul are divided by season, so the best time to visit Istanbul is spring (from April to May) and autumn (from September to October), when temperatures are pleasant (around 20–25 °C) and crowds are more moderate. Summer can be very hot and steamy, so bring light clothing, a hat and sunglasses. In winter, on the other hand, dress in layers, it often rains and can be windy. Another tip: try public transport to certain locations, as Istanbul’s stairs and hills mean you’ll often be walking for longer. The metro and ferry are comfortable and fast, and the ferry across the Bosphorus is one of the optional but unforgettable tours.

Food in Istanbul is certainly one of the greatest pleasures, but there is no pressure and the street food is very diverse and delicious. Many locations offer menus in English, and young Turks also know English, so you don’t have to worry about the language barrier. Along with a smile, you will often use the basic words of welcome (merhaba, teşekker ederim, tüfüş). Turks are very hospitable people and it is not uncommon for them to offer you tea or cakes as a random passer-by.

HOW TO EXPERIENCE ISTANBUL?

Traveling through Istanbul leaves you breathless, the city is truly a bridge between East and West, a palette of colors and cultures. Every part of this metropolis has its own story: Taksim pulsates with urban energy and nightlife, Nişantaşı radiates charm and luxury, and Sultanahmet beckons with historical monuments that tell the stories of centuries. A walk along the cobbled streets mixes the smells of sweet baklava and strong Turkish coffee, while the view of the blue Bosphorus constantly reminds you that you are at the crossroads of civilizations.

Istanbul will delight you in many ways: from viewing the golden mosaics of Hagia Sophia to interesting shopping and haggling at colorful bazaars, from enjoying the beauty of the Blue Mosque to enjoying balık ekmek by the sea. Around every corner there is a new surprise, in the form of an old man with a traveling tea cart, Turkish music blaring from nearby bars or the smile of a baklava seller who offers you a piece of baklava to try his very sweet baklava with pistachios. Even when you share the memories with your friends upon your return, you will realize that the image of Istanbul remains with you forever. The city of two continents, intertwined with history, culture and magic, charms everyone, it becomes the city of all of us, at least for a moment!

My dear travellers, we have come to the end of this special travelogue about Istanbul where we had the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this Turkish metropolis. Today’s travelogue would not be possible without the selfless help of Turkish Airlines and Divan Istanbul Hotel in collaboration with local partners who allowed me to feel the spirit and beauty of Turkish local culture and tradition. Of course, as always, I tried my best to convey to you my impressions of this unusual experience from Istanbul.

How did you like my story about Istanbul, the crossroads of continents and the color of life? Have you had a chance to visit Istanbul yet?

If you have any question, comment, suggestion or message for me you can write me below in the comments. Of course, as always, you can contact me via email or social networks, all addresses can be found on the CONTACT page. See you at the same place in a few days, with some new story!

With Love from Istanbul,

Mr.M

This post is sponsored by the Turkish Airlines and Divan Istanbul Hotel and other local partners. This post is my personal and honest review of the destination experience.