In the crisp November air, I found myself wandering through the vibrant streets of Istanbul, a city that effortlessly blends the past and present. The colors of autumn painted the city in warm hues, and the promise of discovery lingered in every corner. Istanbul, a city where East meets West, has an allure that transcends seasons, and my journey was about to unfold like a captivating novel.
Must-Visit Places:
1. Sultanahmet Square: A Glimpse into History
The heart of Istanbul, Sultanahmet Square, is a treasure trove of historical landmarks. Here, you'll find the Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture, and the Blue Mosque, adorned with intricate blue tiles. Explore the Topkapi Palace, home to Ottoman sultans, and don't forget the Basilica Cistern, an underground wonder with ancient columns and mystical ambiance.
2. Bosphorus Cruise: Bridging Continents
Embark on a Bosphorus cruise to witness the city's skyline and iconic landmarks from the water. Enjoy the enchanting views of the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Bosphorus Bridge, and the maiden's tower. The serenity of the Bosphorus will leave you captivated, providing a unique perspective on Istanbul's intercontinental charm.
3. Galata Tower and Surrounding Neighborhoods: Modern and Timeless
Climb the Galata Tower for panoramic views before exploring the trendy neighborhoods of Karaköy and Galata. Wander through cobblestone streets adorned with street art, and discover hidden gems in the form of charming cafes and boutiques. The Galata Bridge offers a picturesque stroll with views of the city's skyline.
4. Balat Streets: A Kaleidoscope of Colors
Wander through the winding streets of Balat and be captivated by the kaleidoscope of colors. The neighbourhood is renowned for its picturesque houses painted in shades of red, yellow, and blue. Each corner tells a story, and the vibrant facades create a lively and enchanting atmosphere.
You can indulge in the local flavor of Balat by visiting its charming cute cafes and antique shops. Enjoy a leisurely cup of Turkish tea at a traditional tea house or explore the antique stores, where hidden gems and unique finds await.Also, don't forget to capture some amazing insta worthy pics at this picturesque neighbourhood.
5. Süleymaniye Mosque: Architectural Splendor
Visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece with a tranquil courtyard. Marvel at the intricate tiles and calligraphy within the mosque, and enjoy the serene atmosphere that sets it apart from the bustling city.
Must Try Cuisines in Istanbul:
Turkish Kahvaltı: A Breakfast Feast
Where to Try: Van Kahvaltı Evi
A Turkish breakfast, or kahvaltı, is a feast for the senses. Typically consisting of an array of cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, jams, honey, and various types of bread, Turkish breakfast is a leisurely affair meant to be enjoyed with family and friends. Don't forget to try the iconic Turkish tea to complete the experience.
Baklava: Layers of Sweet Bliss
Where to Try: Karaköy Güllüoğlu
Indulge in the rich layers of baklava at Karaköy Güllüoğlu, a renowned pastry shop in the Karaköy district. This family-owned establishment has been perfecting the art of baklava for generations, offering a wide variety of flavors and styles and the best ones (I can conclude this after trying baklava at multiple other joints)
Turkish Delights (Lokum): Sweet Confections
Where to Try: Hafiz Mustafa 1864
For a delectable assortment of Turkish delights, Hafiz Mustafa 1864, is a must-visit. Choose from an array of flavours and delight in these traditional sweet treats.I am personally not a big fan of candies, but if you are one you should give a try to these cute little delights.
Galata Cheesecake: Contemporary Twist
For those who appreciate the velvety richness of cheesecake, the Galata Cheesecake is a must-try. Named after the iconic Galata Tower, this dessert features a creamy and luscious cheesecake atop a buttery crust. Often adorned with fruit compote or nuts, the Galata Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of classic and contemporary flavours.
Künefe:
künefe is a delectable dessert made with spun pastry called kataifi, soaked in a sweet, sugar-based syrup called attar, and typically layered with cheese, or with other ingredients such as clotted cream, pistachio or nuts
How to roam around Istanbul:
Metro:
Istanbul's metro system is efficient and connects major parts of the city. It's a quick way to travel between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Tram:
The tram network is very useful for getting around the historic peninsula and my favorite way to roam around all places in Istanbul conveniently . It's a convenient mode of transportation for reaching various popular places.
Modern trams operate on various lines across Istanbul, connecting key areas and neighborhoods. You can "Istanbulkart" for travelling via trams.
The Istanbulkart is an electronic fare card that allows you to use various modes of public transportation, including trams, buses, metro, ferries, and more. You can purchase an Istanbulkart at kiosks, vending machines, or major transportation hubs available at all metro/tram stations.Each journey costs you around 25 turkish lira for getting down to any stop.
So, overall Istanbul, with its timeless beauty, had left an indelible mark on my soul, inviting me to return and explore its enchanting streets once again.
Whether you're drawn to its iconic landmarks, rich history, or delectable cuisine, Istanbul promises an unforgettable experience.
