Istanbul is the economic, financial and cultural capital of Turkey, located on both sides of the Bosphorus, it is geographically interesting as it straddles two continents. The western half of the city is situated in Europe while the eastern half is located in Asia. Isn’t it incredible to experience that you can cross the continent in 10 mins by walk over bridge or ferry? However don’t worry, you don’t need to cross continent daily as most of the city's major attractions are in the west side and in Sultanahmet and Beyoglù.
Day 1:
We arrived in Istanbul and checked in into our apartment in Taskim square in the afternoon. We stayed at as Taskim has good train connectivity to all the tourist places as well as it’s a lively and safe place to stay in Istanbul. As it was quite sunny and lively, we took at walk from Taskim to Galata Tower and Galata Bridge, which is the nearest tourist attraction from Taskim square. Galata Bridge is known for fish restaurants as well as small vendors, selling fresh fish. While, fishermen line up both sides of Galata Bridge day and night and catch fish, on the level below you will find a wide range of fish restaurants. As you wander under bridge, near restaurants, vendors and restaurant owners will attract you, try to catch your attention. Keep walking and try a best and fresh fish sandwich from street side sellers. Believe me; you will long remember Galata Bridge for the taste of fresh and spicy fish sandwiches. Don’t miss it.
As you walk from Eminönü', the Galata Tower, a small but historically important icon of Istanbul, catches your attention. Either climb it as all do or just take around some photos, spend some time around. Once you move on, walk up the crowdy Camondo steps or walk on street, you will come across many small and old shops – Music shops, cafes, gift items. The historic funicular that runs from Karköy to Tünel may just be the answer for those that do not like to walk up hill.
On our return way, we walked up hill from Galata Tower via reached Istanbul's famous pedestrian Avenue Istijal Caddesi, taking us Taskim square. If you don't feel like walking, one of the famous historical a red tram will comfort you. Either you walk or take tram, explore the side streets that lead from here, there is a whole new world waiting to be found.
Day 2:
Next day we visited in Sultanahmet at Sultanahmet area, where you will find most of the
tourist attractions of Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia (aka Aya Sophia): Hagia Sophia was a Christian church built in the year 537; however it later became a mosque in the year 1453 and finally in 1935 Museum. You will be in awe of its beauty as you stand under the Dome taking it all in. Take the stairs to the gallery where stunning mosaics dating back to the 12th century can be seen. As one of the most beautiful buildings in Istanbul it is a sight that shouldn't be missed.
Basilica Cistern: Just on the age of Sultanahmet square diagonally opposite the entrance to Aya Sophia is this wondrous reminder of the past. The cavernous underground basilica cistern was originally used to store water for the palace and other buildings in the area.
Sultanahmet imperial mosque or blue mosque: Across Sultanahmet square facing Aya sofia stands the city's main mosque with its six minarets. It is known affectionately as the Blue Mosque because of the blue iznik tiles that decorated the walls. You need to make sure you have suitable clothes to enter this mosque otherwise you may get suitable clothes at the entrance.
Topkapi palace: This palace was the home of the Ottoman Sultans during the 15th to 19th centuries. There are four courtyards with beautiful gardens and fountains surrounded by a
multitude of buildings housing the harem and the Imperial treasury are must-see don't miss the stunning 86 carat pear-shaped spoon maker's diamond, the armory, the Hall of the privy chamber and the Throne room where the Sultan received his guests. Then at the end walk to the garden for a fabulous view over the Sea of Marmara.
Day 3:
Basilica Cistern: Just on the age of Sultanahmet square diagonally opposite the entrance to Aya Sophia is this wondrous reminder of the past. The cavernous underground basilica cistern was originally used to store water for the palace and other buildings in the area.
Sultanahmet imperial mosque or blue mosque: Across Sultanahmet square facing Aya sofia stands the city's main mosque with its six minarets. It is known affectionately as the Blue Mosque because of the blue iznik tiles that decorated the walls. You need to make sure you have suitable clothes to enter this mosque otherwise you may get suitable clothes at the entrance.
Topkapi palace: This palace was the home of the Ottoman Sultans during the 15th to 19th centuries. There are four courtyards with beautiful gardens and fountains surrounded by a
multitude of buildings housing the harem and the Imperial treasury are must-see don't miss the stunning 86 carat pear-shaped spoon maker's diamond, the armory, the Hall of the privy chamber and the Throne room where the Sultan received his guests. Then at the end walk to the garden for a fabulous view over the Sea of Marmara.
Day 3:
Visit to Istanbul is not complete unless you take a night cruise on the Bosphorus. This is called as The Bosphorus Cruise. The cruise starts from near Galata Bridge and through the Istanbul's waterway that divides its Asian sides, takes you for around four hours giving you glimpse of history, culture and liveliness. In these four hours cruise, we could gaze numerous old palaces, mansions that line the shores of Bosphorus and various Light decorated bridges along with panoramic vistas of the famous waterway as cruise gently past glittering silhouettes of famous monuments like the Blue Mosque and Lender’s Tower. While enjoying the outside view, you can indulge yourself in unlimited onboard drinks.
One of the key attractions on this cruise is Oriental house dinner and cultural programs. Food with a selection of Turkish specialties served onboard, feasting upon grilled meat and flavorsome items.
One of the key attractions on this cruise is Oriental house dinner and cultural programs. Food with a selection of Turkish specialties served onboard, feasting upon grilled meat and flavorsome items.
Last but not least, the mesmerizing and enchanting moves of a Turkish belly dancer and a
traditional folkloric show, made this cruise worth it. Included, pick up and late night dropping service to apartment made our evening very comfortable. We slept that night dreaming Turkish beats and dance moves.
Next day, our next destination Antalya was waiting for us.
traditional folkloric show, made this cruise worth it. Included, pick up and late night dropping service to apartment made our evening very comfortable. We slept that night dreaming Turkish beats and dance moves.
Next day, our next destination Antalya was waiting for us.By
Anagha Majahan
Stuttgart, Germany
Superb drawings and write-up!
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