Getting Around:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Istanbul offers a variety of public transportation options. You\u2019ll enjoy multiple routes and the opportunity to travel via subways, ferries, trains or trams, but you\u2019ll also want a map!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An easy and fairly inexpensive way for visitors to get around is by Uber or taxi. Many Uber drivers will ask for your final destination before confirming a ride. If you opt for a taxi, stay wary of drivers overcharging. Stand your ground on pricing and carry cash as most taxis do not accept credit card.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Helpful Tip<\/strong>:<\/em> Don’t be alarmed by frequent cancellations during rush hour; you will find a driver!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n

<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

\n

\n

Where To Stay:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

\n

Istanbul is made up of multiple unique neighborhoods and districts, each with its own history and vibe. For first-timers I would recommend staying somewhere in the European district of Beyo\u011flu. Within Beyo\u011flu are the popular areas of Taksim Square<\/strong>, Galata<\/strong>, and Karak\u00f6y<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Opposite the Bosphorus on the European side is the popular neighborhood of Sultanahmet<\/strong>. It’s a hot spot for tourism as it holds the Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, Topkap\u0131 Palace, and Basilica Cistern.<\/em> You’ll also be within walking distance of the Grand Bazaar.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

\n

\n

\n

Where To Eat:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

\n

\n

\n

Dinner:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n

\n

Karak\u00f6y Lokantas\u0131<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gulhane Sark Sofras\u0131<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Three Partners Cafe & Restaurant<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n

Resto Han<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mivan Restaurant Cafe<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1924 Istanbul<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\n

Rooftops:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hamdi Restaurant Emin\u00f6n\u00fc<\/a>:<\/strong> I loved this place and it was truly a highlight of the trip. It’s a wonderful spot for first-time visitors as its rooftop dining offers fantastic sunset views overlooking the Bosphorus and traditional Turkish food. Order the famous pistachio kebab! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Los Altos Mexican Restaurant<\/a><\/strong>: Grab some tasty margaritas and chips with salsa while taking in the breath-taking views of downtown Istanbul.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

\n

What To Do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

\n

There are tons of things to see and do in Istanbul. I highly recommend wearing comfortable shoes because you’ll most likely be on your feet for hours. I’ve compiled a list of the top attractions below:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Explore Beyo\u011flu and Karak\u00f6y:<\/strong> The lively harbor-side neighborhood of Karak\u00f6y\u00a0is located on the northern European shore of the Golden Horn. This vibrant area is a blend of the old historic city with pockets of modernity. Explore the streets filled with traditional Turkish bakeries, antique shops, contemporary galleries, chic cafes and bars. While walking through this neighborhood, make sure to try baklava at Karak\u00f6y G\u00fcll\u00fco\u011flu<\/a><\/strong>, one of the most popular dessert shops. (Creep the ‘gram & you’ll be sold immediately).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Galata Bridge<\/strong>: Two-level bridge connecting the neighborhood of Karak\u00f6y with Emin\u00f6n\u00fc. The upper level contains a walkway lined with fisherman out for their daily catch. The bottom level consists of Turkish restaurants working to lure you to eat at their spot.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Taksim Square<\/strong>: This square is the heart of the modern city of Istanbul. Within the area is the newly completed Taksim Square Mosque which opened in 2021, Gezi Park, and the Republic Monument which honors the foundation of the Turkish Republic founded in 1923. Directly off the square runs the pedestrian filled, Istiklal Street, where vintage trams run. Along this bustling street you’ll find plenty of department stores, souvenir shops, local restaurants, and TONS of people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Galata Tower<\/strong>: Built around 500 A.D. as a watch tower to help defend the city. Purchase tickets prior to climbing the iconic tower and expect large crowds during sunset. Viewers swoon over the 360 degree view of Istanbul. Climbing up and down narrow staircases can be a bit claustrophobic for some; prepare for lots of maneuvering around other visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Bosphorus Cruise<\/strong>: The perfect way to end your day. You will find a great deal of companies promoting their boat tours to take you around the city. You can choose between one hour rides, dinner rides, or even a night of partying. It’s a versatile option that allows you to sail through two continents while appreciating the waterfront properties and palaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Explore Sultanahmet (Old City):<\/strong> The Sultanahmet neighborhood was the capital of civilization for several empires. Tourists flock to the Old City filled with the most popular main attractions like mosques, museums, and palaces. You can explore on your own, hire a guide in advance, or (if you wait until the last minute for things) hire a guide on the spot outside most attractions. You’ll spend hours on your feet so wear sneakers and bring water!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Hagia Sophia<\/strong>: Built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537 as a church for its capital city. In 1453, Sultan Mehmet II\u00a0of the Ottoman Empire seized Constantinople and converted the church into a mosque. Once the Ottoman Empire collapsed, the Turkish government converted the mosque into a museum and began restoration. It is now once again a mosque, open free of entrance fees to visitors outside prayer hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Blue Mosque<\/strong>: [Known in Turkish as the Sultanahmet Camii, or the Sultanahmet Mosque] The mosque was constructed by the Ottoman Empire in the 17th century and has now become a favorite attraction. Unfortunately as of 2022, 95% of the mosque is under construction, but don’t\u00a0worry! All visitors can still appreciate its interior and the intricately decorated ceiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Basilica Cistern<\/strong>: Built by Justinian I in 532, this is the largest ancient cistern of the many hundred that lie beneath Istanbul. This underground chamber is capable of holding 80,000 cubic meters of water and the ceiling is supported by 336 marble columns. It has recently undergone renovation and now is one of the most popular sites in Istanbul.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

\n

<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Topkapi Palace:<\/strong> Built as the first Ottoman Palace which served as the primary residence and administrative headquarters from 1458-1873. The property is quite large; tours are a bit long, because it has four large courtyards and many buildings. *Expect to be there for at least 2 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Grand Bazaar:<\/strong> One of the largest markets in the world spanning over 61 streets and 4000 shops. Throughout the streets you’ll find spices, Turkish delights, coffee, tea, rugs, ceramics, lamps, jewelry, towels and more!\u00a0 Do yourself a favor and haggle with the shopkeepers – they’re always trying to scam tourists, but the negotiation is fun if you go into it with the right attitude.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

G\u00fclhane Park:<\/strong> Take a breather from touring mosques and museums and stop by this expansive park filled with beautiful gardens and outdoor cafes. The\u00a0tulip\u00a0is one of Istanbul’s traditional symbols and every spring, millions of tulips are planted and later celebrated during a festival from April 1st to 30th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

---

\n\n\n\n

Experience a Turkish Hamam<\/strong>: A trip to Turkey would NOT be complete without experiencing a Turkish hamam. I would recommend starting your day with some serious pampering. My husband and I chose\u00a0\u00c7UKURCUMA HAMAMI<\/em>\u00a01831<\/a> based on their decision to allow men and women in the baths together unlike other locations. Three other extremely popular spots include: Cagaloglu Hamam<\/a>, Hurrem Sultan Hamami<\/a>, and Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n