When I first saw the Ben Afflek Hollywood flick Argo and saw the Blue mosque in the movie, I made up my mind that Istanbul is one place I will definitely go to one day and stand next to this beautiful structure they call the Sultanahmet Mosque. In May of 2019 this dream came true when I finally visited this beautiful city thanks to an Indian Airline company starting direct low fare service to this Turkish metropolis.
Istanbul is a beautiful amalgamation of cultures, of old and new and has a welcoming vibe to it. And by far it is on my list of topmost beautiful cities in the world.
The minute I landed at the Istanbul international airport I somehow got an awe inspiring feeling. Situated on the banks of the Bosphorus river, this beautiful city earlier called Constantinople is rich in Culture, Ottoman Architecture and most of all tourists from Asia and Europe. You feel a mix of Asian and European cultures across the city wherever you may go to.
From India it's easier to visit Istanbul with direct flights from major cities and an e-visa requirement if you hold a valid US visa. I got my Turkey E-Visa within minutes and landed at the brand new Turkey International airport. Since I had an organized tour planned , I had a cab waiting for me at the airport ready to take me to Sultanahmet to my hotel. Sultanahmet is on the old town side where most of the tourist attractions are located so it makes sense to book a hotel in Sultanahmet.
The Turkish Lira is not a very expensive currency coupled with the fact that Turkish people are very hospitable makes up for a memorable vacation
If your Google maps is functional you can visit most attractions on foot from your hotel if staying in Sultanahmet. We started with the first part of our trip one early morning with a trip to the Spice Bazaar near the Blue mosque.
The spice Bazaar is oh so lively and bustling with people and yet very expensive if you want to pick up souvenirs or Turkish towels. So we just went for a couple of hours breathing the Turkish and and getting the feel of this beautiful Cosmopolitan city.
Next stop being the stunning Bosphorus cruise. Bosphorus river has been a major trade route bringing in traders into Istanbul the country's financial capital since ancient times. The Bosphorus cruise is an absolute must do while visiting Istanbul. You can absolutely not miss a sail across this river and experience prime real estate on the banks of this beautiful river. The sight of the stunning river side houses is so mesmerizing, that it makes you want to own a house there. The cruise also makes you witness some beautiful mosques and summer houses and palaces of the Ottoman Sultans built facing the river.
Never miss a chance to dine experiencing a Turkish meal at a roof top restaurant enjoying the view of the Blue mosque and the Bosphorus river, it is such a sight for sore eyes.
Speaking of Turkish food. Turkish cuisine is such a delight both for vegetarians and non vegetarians. I am a vegetarian and did not face any challenge enjoying a single meal as compared to my carnivore husband. Turkish people love their Greek Yoghurt and their Baklava. Make sure to gobble both while in Istanbul. For Baklava do not visiting the Mado stores across the city, their Baklava is the absolute best and so is their Turkish coffee. Also have the famous Turkish ice cream that the street vendors sell with a lot of drama. Do visit Simit Sarayi, a chain of places across the city and try the awesome Turkish apple tea , Turkish coffee, Turkish Gozleme and borek. Don't miss a chance to have a falafel wrap of a doner / shawarma wrap too.
A walk around the Bosphorus river in Sultanahmet is just something you find compelled to do in the evenings. The view across the river is just worth a million bucks.
Visit the Topkapi palace, beylerbeyi castle, Galata tower, Blue mosque, the Hippodrome and the Hagia Sophia. I strongly recommend a mini tram ride across the old city to experience the real Turkish feel.
Do your souvenier shopping from the shops in Sultanahmet, their prices are far reasonable than else where around Istanbul. Do not forget to take home Turkish Eye souvenier and take some back for friends and family too.
I was in Istanbul only for 3 days and wished I could spend more time there , just walking around, sitting in a road side cafe sipping Turkish coffee and eating a Baklava. I hope and pray I get to visit this stunning city at least once more during this lifetime since it is by far one of the most beautiful cities I have ever been to.
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