Destination Istanbul

Istanbul is a vibrant city that merges eastern and western cultures. A timeless location that beautifully mixes modern amenities such as shopping malls and art galleries with bustling daily markets and traditional Turkish baths. It’s a city that is brimming with years of history and tradition which is reflected in everything from the architecture to the people.

Reasons to Visit Istanbul

If you need the quick rundown of what makes Istanbul such an amazing destination for a vacation, then here are a couple of compelling reasons to visit.

1. Istanbul offers some of the world’s most beautiful architectural wonders. From the Topkapi and Domlahce Palaces to the  Hagia Sophia Museum, a world of wonder awaits you here in Istanbul.
2. Turkey has a growing culinary scene thanks to its mix of eastern and western influences. From bite-sized street food snacks to fine dining experiences, there’s something for everyone here.
3. If you love visiting markets then Istanbul has some of the most wonderful bazaars in the entire world. From fresh produce to handcrafted masterpieces, you’ll find that the markets here in Istanbul are full of surprises.
4. Istanbul has several amazing art galleries and museums that showcase some of Turkey’s deep history and culture, but also a lot of modern and contemporary art.

Attractions in Istanbul

If you’re visiting Istanbul and love architecture and tradition then the Hagia Sophia Museum and the Dolmabahce Palace are must-visit locations. If you’re interested in romantic boat rides, then a trip to the Bosphorus Strait is an absolute must! If you’re travelling with children, then you’ll be glad to know that there are kid-friendly destinations such as the Waterplanet Aquapark and also Istanbul Legoland. For exploring the religious and cultural side of Istanbul, we’d recommend the Suleymaniye Mosque and the Blue Mosque as excellent choices.

Food in Istanbul

While it may seem a little basic, you can’t leave Istanbul without trying a traditional doner kebab on a bed of pide bread served with yogurt, butter and tomato sauce. Lahmacun is also a delicious dish that can be served in small bites like a light pizza or even turned into a full meal with various toppings. There’s a fantastic mix of street food and classy restaurants, so you’ll be satisfied no matter what floats your boat.

Staying in Istanbul

There are plenty of affordable accommodation options in Istanbul but you’ll also find a variety of hostels to stay if you’re looking to travel on a budget. From hotels to bed and breakfasts, there’s no shortage of places to stay at various budgets.

Istanbul Travel Tips

Here are a couple of handy travel tips if you’re thinking about heading to Istanbul.

• Don’t be afraid of walking. Traffic can be quite horrible which makes shorter trips a lot more manageable by foot.
• But if you have to travel long distances, taxis are relatively cheap as long as the traffic isn’t too bad.
• If you plan to visit religious locations such as the Blue Mosque then pay attention to the dress code as tourists will not be allowed in unless they wear the appropriate clothing.