Istanbul: City of Two Continents

Isn’t it everybody’s dream to be in two different places at the same time? Istanbul is the metropol city of Turkey that can grant this wish. The city connects the continents of Europe and Asia with the amazing Bosphorus while offering some of the most exquisite city views of the world.

Istanbul is a city full of life with its amazing natural wonders, historical legacy, never-ending crowd, and hustle…

The city has a lot to offer to its visitors. In the old city area, you can discover the magnificent Suleymaniye Mosque, the sacred Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome, and many more. You can practice your bargaining skills in the lively Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar while exploring some of the most interesting products.

You can take a boat tour along the incomparable Bosphorus, and enjoy the perfect scenes along with some of the most elegant historical legacies of the city along the strait.

You can find a new excştement in each corner as everywhere smells of history.

For an unforgettable trip, pack your bags and join the adventure. One thing is for sure: You will not regret it.

Istanbul is a major international hub, so there are several ways to reach the city:

By Air: Istanbul has two major airports.

Istanbul Airport (IST): Opened in 2018, Istanbul Airport is one of the largest in the world. It is located on the European side of the city and offers flights to and from a vast number of international destinations across the globe.

Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW): This airport is on the Asian side of the city and also serves a large number of international and domestic flights.

By Train: Istanbul is connected to various European and Asian cities through the railway network. The high-speed train service connects Istanbul to Ankara, Konya, and Eskisehir. There are also transcontinental routes, like the famed Orient Express.

By Bus: Istanbul has a large intercity bus station – Buyuk Otogar, located in the Esenler district. Buses from all over Turkey and many European cities arrive here.

By Car: Istanbul is well connected with a network of national roads and highways. However, traffic in Istanbul can be congested, and finding parking can be challenging in the city center.

By Sea: Istanbul has several ports, with frequent ferries from various locations around the Marmara Sea. There are also cruise ships that dock in Istanbul, typically as part of Mediterranean itineraries.

What to pack for Istanbul will depend on the time of year you visit due to the city’s varying seasonal weather. Here are some suggestions:

All Seasons:

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Istanbul is a city best explored on foot, and many historical sites involve traversing cobbled streets and steep hills.

Universal Power Adapter: Turkey uses Type F sockets, and the standard voltage is 220 V.

Lightweight Scarf: This is useful for both men and women when visiting mosques, where modest attire is required.

Spring and Autumn (March-May, September-November):

Layered Clothing: Temperatures can vary significantly from day to night, so it’s a good idea to have a mix of light and warmer clothes.

Light Jacket or Sweater: For cooler evenings.

Umbrella or Raincoat: Rain showers can occur, especially in the spring.

Summer (June-August):

Lightweight and Breathable Clothes: The weather can get quite hot, so pack light clothing like linen shirts, shorts, or sundresses.

Sunscreen and Hat: To protect against the intense summer sun.

Swimwear: If you plan to visit any of the beaches or hamams (Turkish baths) around Istanbul.

Winter (December-February):

Warm Clothing: It can get quite chilly, especially in the evenings. Pack warm clothing like sweaters, long pants, and a good coat.

Gloves, Scarf, and Hat: Useful for the colder days and nights.

Umbrella: Winter is the wettest season in Istanbul, and snow can sometimes occur.

Istanbul is a vast city with many diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. The best place to stay will depend on what you are looking to get out of your visit. Here are a few popular areas:

Sultanahmet: This is the old historical part of the city, where you’ll find major attractions such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. There are numerous hotels ranging from budget to luxury. It’s a great place to stay if it’s your first time in Istanbul and you want to be close to the major sights.

Beyoglu (including Taksim Square and Istiklal Street): This area is the heart of modern Istanbul, with many restaurants, shops, and bars. It has a lively atmosphere day and night. You’ll also find the famous Galata Tower here.

Galata: This trendy neighborhood, located at the northern shore of the Golden Horn, offers a bohemian vibe with its boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. It’s also a popular area for its boutique hotels and vintage hostels.

Karakoy: This is one of Istanbul’s most up-and-coming districts. It has a mix of trendy bars, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. The accommodation is more design-led, with a variety of stylish boutique hotels.

Besiktas: A bustling district home to upscale shopping streets, fish markets, and the famous Dolmabahce Palace. It’s a nice place to stay if you’re looking for a more local neighborhood feel but still want to be close to the city center.

Kadıkoy: If you want to stay on the Asian side of the city, Kadıkoy is a great option. It’s a lively, cultural neighborhood with many shops, restaurants, and bars. The area has a more laid-back feel compared to the European side.

Istanbul has a Mediterranean climate, but due to its large size and diverse geographical features, it can show characteristics of different climate types. The city experiences four distinct seasons: winter, spring, summer, and autumn.

Winter (December to February): Istanbul winters can be quite cold, and the city often experiences rain and occasionally snow. Average temperatures can range from 3 to 8 degrees Celsius (37-46 degrees Fahrenheit).

Spring (March to May): Spring can be one of the best times to visit Istanbul. The weather is mild, and the city’s parks and gardens burst into bloom. Average temperatures range from 8 to 19 degrees Celsius (46-66 degrees Fahrenheit).

Summer (June to August): Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures frequently above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s the peak tourist season despite the heat, primarily because it’s the driest season of the year.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another pleasant time to visit Istanbul. The temperatures start to cool, and there’s less rainfall compared to spring. Average temperatures can range from 15 to 22 degrees Celsius (59-72 degrees Fahrenheit).

The best time to visit Istanbul depends on what you’re hoping to do and see during your trip. However, generally speaking, the most favorable times to visit the city are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November).

Spring (April to June): During these months, the weather is typically mild and many of the city’s parks and gardens are in bloom. Spring is also a less crowded time to visit compared to the summer months, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the city and its many landmarks.

Autumn (September to November): Like spring, autumn in Istanbul brings milder temperatures and fewer tourists. This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds but still enjoy good weather.

Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Istanbul, so expect larger crowds at popular sites. The weather can be quite hot and humid, but it’s also the driest season, which can be a plus if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors.

Winter (December to February): Winter in Istanbul can be cold and wet, and occasionally snowy. However, if you don’t mind the weather, you’ll find fewer tourists and lower prices. Keep in mind that some attractions may have reduced hours.

Istanbul, historically known as Byzantium and Constantinople, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Its strategic location between Europe and Asia, as well as its access to the sea, has made it an important city throughout history.

Ancient History: The earliest known settlement in Istanbul dates back to the 7th century BC when it was founded as Byzantium, a Greek colony. In 196 AD, it was rebuilt and fortified by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus.

Roman and Byzantine Period: In 330 AD, the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great made Byzantium the new capital of the Roman Empire and renamed it Constantinople. This marked the beginning of the city’s golden age as it became a major hub of trade and culture. It remained the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, later known as the Byzantine Empire, for over a thousand years.

Ottoman Period: In 1453, the city was conquered by Mehmed the Conqueror, the Ottoman Sultan, and it was renamed Istanbul. This marked the end of the Byzantine Empire and the beginning of the Ottoman period. Under Ottoman rule, the city underwent significant changes and became an Islamic hub. Many of the city’s iconic landmarks, like the Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque, were built during this period.

Modern History: After the collapse of the Ottoman Empire following World War I, the Turkish War of Independence led to the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. The capital was moved to Ankara, but Istanbul continued to be a significant city both culturally and economically.

Today, Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world. Its rich history is reflected in its architecture and diverse culture. The Historic Areas of Istanbul, including sites such as the Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), and the Grand Bazaar, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Istanbul, given its rich history and diverse culture, has many ‘famous firsts’ and greatest achievements. Here are a few:

Hagia Sophia: One of the world’s architectural marvels, the Hagia Sophia was first built as an Eastern Orthodox Cathedral in 537 AD during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It was the world’s largest interior space and the first to employ a full pendentive dome.

First Financial Crash: Some historians credit Istanbul (then Constantinople) with the world’s first financial ‘crash’ in the year 1343 when the Byzantine Empire defaulted on its loans.

Ecumenical Patriarchate: Istanbul is home to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, the most senior patriarchate of the Eastern Orthodox Church, and hence a central figure in Christianity worldwide.

Topkapi Palace: This was the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th century. It’s one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture and is now a museum housing important Islamic relics.

Basilica Cistern: This is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns lying beneath the city. Built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, this cistern provided water filtration for the Great Palace of Constantinople and other buildings on First Hill.

Galata Tower: One of the city’s most striking landmarks, it is a high, cone-capped cylinder that dominates the skyline and offers a panoramic vista of Istanbul’s historic peninsula and its environs.

Bosphorus Bridge: When it was completed in 1973, the Bosphorus Bridge was the fourth-longest suspension bridge in the world and the first to connect two continents – Europe and Asia.

Grand Bazaar: One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, with 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors daily.

Istanbul is a city rich in history and culture, reflected in its numerous historical sites. Here are some of the most important historical places to visit in Istanbul:

Hagia Sophia: Once a church, later a mosque, and now a museum, the Hagia Sophia is famous for its massive dome and beautiful mosaics. It’s one of the most significant examples of Byzantine architecture.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Mosque): Built in the 17th century, this stunning mosque is known for its blue Iznik tile work and its six minarets. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul.

Topkapi Palace: This sprawling palace was the main residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. It’s now a museum that houses important Islamic relics, including the Prophet Mohammed’s cloak and sword.

Basilica Cistern: This underground structure was a water storage facility in the Byzantine era. The atmospheric cistern, supported by 336 columns, was featured in the James Bond film “From Russia with Love”.

Grand Bazaar: One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar features over 4,000 shops spread over 61 streets. It’s an excellent place to shop for jewelry, ceramics, carpets, spices, and more.

Dolmabahce Palace: Located along the Bosphorus, this 19th-century palace was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire and the residence of the last Ottoman Sultans. Its design combines traditional Ottoman elements with European architectural styles.

Chora Museum (Kariye Museum): Originally a Byzantine church, later a mosque, and now a museum, it’s famous for its stunning mosaics and frescoes.

Galata Tower: Offering a panoramic view of Istanbul, this medieval stone tower in the Galata/Karakoy quarter of Istanbul was built in 1348.

The Walls of Constantinople: These walls surrounded and protected the city of Constantinople (today Istanbul) since its founding as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine the Great.

Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar): Built in the 17th century, it’s the place to go for spices, herbs, teas, and Turkish delight. It’s named the Egyptian Bazaar because it was built with money from duties levied on Egyptian-imported goods.

Suleymaniye Mosque: This mosque, built on the order of Suleiman the Magnificent, is considered the most beautiful of all imperial mosques in Istanbul.

Galata Bridge: This bridge spans the Golden Horn and links the districts of Galata and Eminönü. It’s a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy some fresh seafood.

Istanbul Archaeological Museums: Located in the Eminonü district of Istanbul, the museum consists of three museums: Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Orient Museum, and the Tiled Kiosk Museum.

Beylerbeyi Palace: An imperial Ottoman summer residence built in the 1860s, it’s located in the Beylerbeyi neighborhood on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus.

Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari): This fortress was built by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II in the 15th century before his conquest of Constantinople. It’s located on the European side of the Bosphorus.

Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi): Also known as Leander’s Tower, this is a small tower on a tiny islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus. It has served various purposes over the centuries, including a lighthouse, a quarantine station, and a customs checkpoint.

The Princes’ Islands: This is a chain of nine islands off the coast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara. The islands are famous for their mild climates, lush vegetation, and ornate Ottoman-era villas.

The Hippodrome: Today, it’s a square named Sultanahmet Meydani (Sultan Ahmet Square) in the Turkish city of Istanbul, with a few fragments of the original structure surviving.

Ortakoy Mosque: This mosque, officially the Buyuk Mecidiye Camii, is a striking sight on the Bosphorus with its Neo-Baroque style.

Yildiz Palace and Park: The complex consists of a collection of palaces and villas in Istanbul, spread over a large park in the district of Besiktaş, on the European side of the city.

Istanbul Modern Art Museum: Though not historical in the conventional sense, it’s located in an old warehouse in Tophane and represents Istanbul’s modern side with its exhibitions, library, and photography gallery.

Taksim Square: This busy square located in the European part of Istanbul is a major tourist and leisure district famed for its restaurants, shops, and hotels.

Istiklal Street: One of the most famous avenues in Istanbul, visited by nearly 3 million people in a single day over the course of weekends.

Pera Museum: This private museum in the Tepebaşı quarter of the Beyoglu district hosts an extensive collection of art, including one of the richest collections of Ottoman period artwork and ephemera.

Kadıkoy: On the Asian side of the city, it’s known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural activities, as well as the famous fish market.

Fener and Balat Neighborhoods: These historic districts are full of old Greek and Jewish houses, Orthodox churches, and synagogues.

Naval Museum: Located in Besiktas district of Istanbul, it contains an important collection of military artifacts pertaining to the Turkish Naval Forces.

Istanbul, previously known as Byzantium and Constantinople, has been the stage for numerous historical figures. Here are some of the most notable:

Constantine the Great: He was the Roman Emperor from 306 to 337 AD. He is best known for being the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity and for moving the capital of the Roman Empire from Rome to Byzantium, which he renamed Constantinople (after himself) and which eventually became Istanbul.

Justinian I: Justinian I was the Byzantine emperor from 527 to 565. He is best known for his ambitious rebuilding of Constantinople, including the construction of the Hagia Sophia, and for his comprehensive codification of Roman law.

Mehmed the Conqueror: Sultan Mehmed II, also known as Mehmed the Conqueror, was a prominent figure in the history of Istanbul. In 1453, he led the Ottoman forces that conquered Constantinople, bringing an end to the Byzantine Empire. The city was then renamed Istanbul and became the new capital of the Ottoman Empire.

Suleiman the Magnificent: Suleiman was the longest-reigning Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, ruling from 1520 until his death in 1566. His era is known as a period of great artistic and architectural achievement, such as the construction of the Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk: Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was the founder of the Republic of Turkey and its first President. He transformed the country with his reforms, moving the capital from Istanbul to Ankara, but Istanbul still remains the heart of Turkey in many ways. His mausoleum, Anitkabir, is located in Ankara, but his influence and legacy can be seen all over Istanbul and the rest of Turkey.

Byzantine Empress Theodora: Theodora was one of the most influential and powerful women in the Byzantine Empire’s history. She was the wife of Emperor Justinian I and was known for her political acumen and philanthropic efforts.

Architect Sinan: Considered the greatest architect of the Ottoman Empire, Mimar Sinan created some of the most iconic structures in Istanbul, including the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne and the Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul.

Orhan Pamuk: A contemporary figure, Orhan Pamuk is a famous Turkish author from Istanbul who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2006. Many of his books are set in Istanbul and provide deep insights into life in the city.

Emperor Theodosius II: He was Byzantine Emperor from 402 to 450 AD. Theodosius is known for constructing the Theodosian Walls, which served to protect Constantinople effectively from invasions for many centuries.

Osman Hamdi Bey: An Ottoman statesman, painter, and archaeologist, Osman Hamdi Bey founded the Istanbul Archaeological Museum and the Istanbul Academy of Fine Arts, leaving a significant mark on the city’s cultural scene.

Fazil Say: A contemporary Turkish composer and pianist, Fazil Say has earned a reputation for his fusion of Western classical music with Turkish folk tunes.

Istanbul, with its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are 15 things that you should consider doing when in Istanbul:

1. 1. Hagia Sophia Museum: Explore this magnificent museum, originally built as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral in 537 AD and later converted into a mosque and museum.
   2. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii): Admire the intricate tilework of this historic mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.
   3. Topkapi Palace: Visit this grand palace, which was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for approximately 400 years.
   4. Grand Bazaar: Go shopping in one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, offering everything from jewelry and ceramics to spices and textiles.
   5. Basilica Cistern: Visit the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns beneath the city, a marvel of Byzantine engineering.
   6. Dolmabahce Palace: Explore this stunning palace on the Bosphorus, which served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1887.
   7. Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar): Discover a variety of colorful spices, dried fruits, nuts, and other goods at this famous bazaar.
   8. Galata Tower: Climb up to the top of this medieval stone tower for a panoramic view of Istanbul.
   9. Cruise the Bosphorus: Take a ferry ride along the Bosphorus Strait to see Istanbul from a different perspective.
   10. Suleymaniye Mosque: Visit this majestic mosque built by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, offering stunning views of the city.
   11. Chora Museum (Kariye Muzesi): Explore this museum, renowned for its beautiful Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.
   12. Visit Taksim Square and Istiklal Street: This is the modern heart of the city with numerous shops, restaurants, and nightclubs.
   13. Istanbul Archaeology Museums: Spend time in these museums, which house over one million objects from civilizations around the world.
   14. Visit Ortakoy: Enjoy the scenic views of the Bosphorus, and the Ortakoy Mosque, and browse the charming shops and restaurants in this neighborhood.
   15. Turkish Bath (Hamam): Experience a traditional Turkish bath for relaxation.

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is full of cultural, historical, and architectural wonders. Here are some of the must-visit places in Istanbul:

Hagia Sophia Museum: Once a cathedral, later a mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural masterpiece.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii): This historic mosque is famous for its beautiful blue tiles and unique architecture with six minarets.

Topkapi Palace: Home to Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries, this palace offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the sultans.

Grand Bazaar: One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar is a shopping paradise with over 3,000 shops.

Basilica Cistern: This ancient underground water storage is a mesmerizing site with its forest of columns.

Dolmabahce Palace: This palace combines European architectural styles with traditional Ottoman elements. It’s also where Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, spent his last days.

Spice Bazaar: Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, it’s the best place to buy spices, nuts, dried fruit, and other delicacies.

Galata Tower: For panoramic views of the city, head up to the observation deck of this medieval stone tower.

Bosphorus Cruise: Take a ferry ride to enjoy Istanbul’s beautiful skyline and see the strait that separates Europe and Asia.

Istanbul Archaeology Museums: These museums house a vast collection of artifacts from across the globe, reflecting Istanbul’s place at the crossroads of civilizations.

Suleymaniye Mosque: This grand mosque, built by the famous architect Sinan, offers stunning views over the city and the Golden Horn.

Istiklal Street: This bustling pedestrian street in the Beyoglu district is lined with shops, cafés, restaurants, galleries, and theaters.

Chora Museum (Kariye Museum): Known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, it’s one of the most important museums in Istanbul.

Ortakoy: A vibrant neighborhood on the Bosphorus with lively markets, restaurants, and a beautiful mosque.

Turkish Baths (Hamams): For a unique cultural experience, visit a traditional Turkish bath. The historic Cemberlitaş Hamami is a popular choice.

Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi): This tower, also known as Leander’s Tower, is one of the most romantic symbols of Istanbul, located on a small islet off the Asian coast. You can take a short boat ride to the tower, where you can enjoy a meal at the restaurant inside.

Istanbul Modern: This is the city’s main museum for contemporary art, hosting a wide range of exhibitions, events, and educational programs.

Miniaturk: This outdoor miniature park features replicas of Turkey’s most notable landmarks.

The Princes’ Islands: These nine car-free islands—only four of which are open to the public—are great for a day trip from Istanbul. The largest and most popular is Büyükada.

Naval Museum: Dedicated to Turkey’s maritime history, this museum houses more than 20,000 exhibits in a variety of collections.

Galata Bridge: A walk across the Galata Bridge offers stunning views of the Golden Horn, as well as plenty of restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine.

Balat Neighborhood: This historic neighborhood on the shores of the Golden Horn is known for its colorful houses, historic churches, and the Fener Greek Orthodox College.

Taksim Square: The heart of modern Istanbul, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Belgrad Forest: A large forest area on the European side of Istanbul, perfect for picnics, walks, and runs.

Fener & Balat: These districts are famous for their historical houses, and they’re considered UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Kadıkoy: Located on the Asian side of the city, it’s a bustling area with a wide range of shops, restaurants, and bars.

Emirgan Park: One of the largest public parks in Istanbul, known for its tulip festival in April.

Rahmi M. Koc Museum: A great place for kids and adults alike, it’s dedicated to the history of transport, industry, and communications.

Sakip Sabanci Museum: An art museum located in Emirgan, dedicated to calligraphic art, religious and state documents, as well as paintings of the Ottoman era.

Beylerbeyi Palace: A beautiful palace located in the Asian side of Istanbul, known for its magnificent gardens and beautiful views of the Bosphorus.

Choosing the best tour depends on your personal preferences, but here are some highly-rated tour options in Istanbul:

Classic Historical Tour: This tour typically covers the top historical sites, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Some also include the Hippodrome and the Basilica Cistern.

Bosphorus Cruise: A cruise on the Bosphorus is a must-do in Istanbul. You’ll see palaces, bridges, and waterfront mansions. Some cruises include dinner and traditional Turkish entertainment.

Turkish Night Show and Dinner: Enjoy an evening of Turkish cuisine accompanied by live traditional music and dance performances, including belly dancing.

Turkish Bath Experience: Pamper yourself with a traditional Turkish bath experience, also known as a hammam.

Culinary Walking Tour: Explore Istanbul’s food scene with a local guide. Try a variety of Turkish delicacies from street food to high-end restaurant dishes.

Walking Tour of Istanbul’s Asian Side: Visit Kadıkoy, one of Istanbul’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan districts on the Asian side of the city.

Street Art Tour: Discover Istanbul’s vibrant street art scene on a walking tour of the city’s coolest graffiti, murals, and stencils.

Princes’ Islands Tour: Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands, enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides (as motorized vehicles are not allowed), and relax at the beautiful beaches.

Photography Tour: Guided by a professional photographer, these tours take you to picturesque spots around the city and help you capture great shots.

Istanbul can be quite charming in the winter. The city is less crowded and the views can be even more spectacular with a dusting of snow. Here are some suggestions:

Topkapi Palace: This massive palace complex was home to the Ottoman Sultans for over 400 years and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Palace overlooks the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, and the views are breathtaking in winter.

Hagia Sophia: Now a museum, the Hagia Sophia has served as both a church and a mosque in its history. It’s stunning both inside and out, and its grandeur is even more evident in the snow.

Grand Bazaar: It’s a great place to explore on a chilly day. The covered markets are heated, so you can shop in comfort. It’s an ideal spot to buy some unique souvenirs and enjoy a cup of traditional Turkish tea.

Istanbul Modern: This contemporary art museum has a fantastic collection and is a great place to spend a few hours indoors.

Sultanahmet District: The area contains some of Istanbul’s most famous historical sites, including the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome. They’re beautiful in the winter, and the crowds will be much smaller.

Basilica Cistern: Another fascinating indoor attraction. This ancient cistern was built in the 6th century and its columns and water-filled floor create a unique atmosphere.

Hamams (Turkish baths): On a cold winter day, there’s nothing like a visit to a traditional Turkish bath for some pampering.

Gulhane Park: Even in winter, this park can be quite charming. It offers great views of the Bosphorus and Topkapi Palace.

Bosphorus Cruise: Despite the cold, a Bosphorus cruise can be really enjoyable in winter as well. Just make sure to bundle up!

Istiklal Street: This bustling street in the Beyoglu district is full of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place for a stroll, no matter the weather.

Istanbul is a vibrant city with much to offer during the summer months. Here are some suggestions:

Bosphorus Cruise: Summer is a great time to take a cruise on the Bosphorus. You can enjoy the city’s beautiful skyline and get a view of landmarks such as the Dolmabahce Palace, the Ortakoy Mosque, and the Bosphorus Bridge.

Princes’ Islands: Take a ferry ride to the Princes’ Islands, where you can enjoy a day of hiking, biking, and swimming. The islands are car-free, so it’s a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Visit Parks: Istanbul has numerous parks where you can relax, have a picnic, or enjoy a walk. These include Yildiz Park, Emirgan Park, and Gulhane Park.

Outdoor Dining: Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at an outdoor restaurant. The summer weather is perfect for dining al fresco.

Galata Tower: For a panoramic view of the city, visit the Galata Tower. The view is especially stunning during sunset.

Taksim Square and Istiklal Street: This area is the heart of modern Istanbul with lots of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Kadikoy: On the Asian side of Istanbul, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its hip cafes, bars, and local markets. You can take a ferry from the European side to reach Kadikoy.

Beaches: Yes, Istanbul has beaches too! Check out the beaches on the Bosphorus like Suada Club, or venture further afield to the Black Sea beaches.

Dolmabahce Palace: This palace is a must-see. Its stunning architecture and views of the Bosphorus are especially lovely in the summer.

Outdoor Concerts and Festivals: Summer is the season for outdoor concerts and festivals in Istanbul. Check the local listings to see what’s happening during your visit.

Istanbul is a city of rich culinary traditions, owing to its role as a historical crossroads between Europe and Asia. Here are some traditional dishes you should try when you’re in Istanbul:

Doner Kebap: This dish is made from meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, traditionally either lamb, beef, or chicken. The outer layer is sliced thinly as it roasts.

Lahmacun: Often described as Turkish pizza, lahmacun is a round, thin piece of dough topped with minced meat (most commonly beef or lamb), vegetables, herbs, and spices, then baked.

Baklava: This rich, sweet dessert pastry is made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts, sweetened, and held together with syrup or honey.

Simit: These circular bread typically encrusted with sesame seeds, are ubiquitous in Istanbul and make for a great snack or quick breakfast.

Manti: These Turkish dumplings are usually filled with a spiced meat mixture, boiled or steamed, and served topped with yogurt and spices.

Balik Ekmek: Literally meaning ‘fish bread’, this is a fish sandwich that’s a popular fast food option, particularly in the Eminönü and Karaköy areas by the Golden Horn.

Borek: A family of baked or fried filled pastries made of a thin flaky dough, it comes with various fillings such as cheese, potato, spinach, or minced meat.

Meze: A selection of small dishes served as appetizers before the main course, which can include hummus, dolma (stuffed vine leaves), cacık (a yogurt and cucumber dish), and many others.

Raki-Balik: This is more of an experience than a specific dish. It involves eating a meal of meze and fish while drinking rakı, a traditional Turkish anise-flavored spirit.

Turkish Tea and Turkish Coffee: These are integral parts of Turkish culture and cuisine. You’ll find tea gardens and coffee houses all around Istanbul.

Istanbul is a city full of fantastic dining options, from local street food to high-end fine dining. Here are some of the best restaurants you should consider when visiting:

Mikla: Located on the top floor of the Marmara Pera Hotel, Mikla is consistently ranked among the top restaurants in Istanbul. Chef Mehmet Gurs offers an innovative menu that blends Turkish and Scandinavian influences.

Ulus 29: Overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, Ulus 29 offers a mix of traditional Turkish and international cuisine. It’s known for its glamorous clientele and stunning views.

Ciya Sofrasi: Located on the Asian side of the city in Kadikoy, Ciya Sofrasi serves dishes from all over Turkey, many of which you won’t find anywhere else in Istanbul.

Nusr-Et Steakhouse: This is the original location of the restaurant chain owned by Salt Bae (Nusret Gokçe), a butcher and chef who became an internet sensation. It’s pricey but popular for meat lovers.

Karakoy Lokantasi: Known for its tiled decor and seafood dishes, Karakoy Lokantasi serves traditional Turkish fare. It’s particularly popular at lunchtime.

Balikci Sabahattin: This is one of Istanbul’s most famous fish restaurants, located in a historic building. It offers a wide range of seafood dishes.

Asitane: Located next to the Chora Church, Asitane specializes in Ottoman palace cuisine, based on recipes that are hundreds of years old.

Leb-i Derya: Offering a mix of Turkish and international cuisine, Leb-i Derya is best known for its rooftop dining area with stunning views over the city and the Bosphorus.

Sunset Grill & Bar: This high-end restaurant located in the Ulus neighborhood is famous for its grill dishes and sushi bar. It offers a fantastic view of the Bosphorus and the Asian side of Istanbul.

Nicole: Located in a historic building, Nicole offers a set menu that changes every six weeks. It’s a great spot to try contemporary Turkish cuisine with a French influence.

There are several popular gifts that people often buy in Istanbul, either for themselves or for others. Here are some of the most popular:

Turkish Tea or Coffee: Turkish tea and coffee are integral to the culture in Istanbul and make for great gifts. You might consider also picking up a traditional tea set or coffee pot (cezve).

Turkish Delight (Lokum): This sweet treat comes in a wide variety of flavors and is often beautifully packaged.

Spices: Istanbul’s Spice Bazaar is a great place to pick up unique and fragrant spices, which make a great gift for food lovers.

Ceramics and Pottery: Turkish ceramics and pottery, particularly from Iznik, are beautifully crafted and make wonderful gifts.

Turkish Carpets and Kilims: These can range from small coasters to large floor coverings and are often hand-woven.

Evil Eye (Nazar Boncugu) Amulets: These blue amulets are believed to protect against the evil eye and are a popular souvenir.

Olive Oil and Olive Oil Soap: High-quality olive oil and soap are produced in many parts of Turkey and can be a nice gift.

Turkish Towels (Pestemal): Turkish towels are lightweight, highly absorbent, and quick-drying, making them a practical and beautiful gift.

Turkish Mosaic Lamps: These beautiful lamps come in various sizes and can add a warm and exotic touch to any home decor.

Jewelry: From silver and gold to gemstones, you can find beautiful jewelry pieces at the Grand Bazaar.