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A week in Istanbul:
Essential tips for a
memorable experience.
SONIA VITIELLO| the 4th of October 2023
Are you traveling to Istanbul any time soon or would you like to go and want to make sure that's worth a visit?
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Let me help you with that!
Before going to Istanbul, I heard a lot of negative thoughts about the city.
After spending a week there, I can confirm that Istanbul is a stunning beauty.
For sure there are things that you should or should not do to enjoy the city 100 % and here I am, sharing my tips with you.
Where to stay
Choosing the best area to stay, it can be tricky, especially if you don't know what to expect.
For the best experience, stay in the Old Town. The area has a lot to offer and is easy to access.
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Day 01
MUSEUMS AND MOSQUES
On the first day, wear your explorer hat and wander in the area around you
If you are staying in the Old Town, will be easy because all the main attractions are here.
Basilica cistern
If you love museums and history, start by visiting the old Roman Basilica Cistern. The 6th-century majestic underground reservoir is the largest cistern from Istanbul's Byzantine era.
When is the best time to visit?
Go there in the morning, I would say before 11 a.m., to have a most enjoyable experience and not waste time in a long queue.
You can book your ticket through Trip Advisor
Topkapi palace
Are you curious to know what the sultan's life looked like? Head to the Topkapi palace. Walk in the same yards where the Ottomans used to spend their time, between a prayer and a cup of tea.
Wonder around and enjoy the artistic touch of the typical Turkish pattern.
You can book your ticket through Trip Advisor or at the ticket office before entering the palace
As old and full of history is the city, there are plenty of other museums you can consider. Opting to buy a museum pass instead of single-entry tickets, can be the best solution.
Hagia Sophia
Visit Hagia Sophia first thing in the morning. The mosque opens at 9 a.m. It is better to be there at least 1 hour before to not waste a full day in the queue. Right before the closing time, can also be a good moment.
Hagia Sophia is the most famous and historical example of the Ottoman Empire. It was a church before becoming the standing mosque that we currently know.
When entering the mosque, you may notice some proof of the previous Christian worship.
Blue Mosque
Right in front of Hagia Sophia, visit the majestic Blue Mosque. Together with Hagia Sophia, the blue mosque is Istanbul's icon.
As before, is better if you visit the mosque in the early morning.
Every mosque has free access but it requires a dress code.
If you are a woman you should cover your head and your body. Remember to bring a scarf with you, otherwise, you can collect one at the mosque for free.
Men are no exception, no one can enter the mosque by wearing shorts.
Where to eat
If you are looking for a quiet, local, and friendly place to eat, Hunkar Restaurant can be the way to go.
The food there tastes good and there are a lot of vegetarian options.
The staff at Hunkar Restaurant is friendly and the prices are good.
Some refreshment
After a full day of wandering and eating, is time to rest and enjoy your city break.
Have some fresh baklava and tea at DaRoute Coffee. Read a book and take some cute pictures in their lovely garden.
Day 02
WANDER AROUND THE SUQ AND EXPLORE KARAKÖY
On the second day, you can get more into the Istanbul vibe, by strolling into the two main bazaars.
Grand Bazaar​
​Wander in the various stands where merchants will welcome you and try to give you the best offer.
Spices, perfumes, colors, dresses, Turkish delights, and more...you can't skip that!
After spending quite some time in the market, is time for another drink or snack. Isn't that the main reason why you are in Istanbul?
Around the market, there is a small shop specializing in Borek. Borek is a typical pastry filled with cheese, veggies, or meat.
What you need to do is to head to Hazal Börek Salonu and give joy to your taste buds.
Egyptian bazaar
After recharging your body, go visit the Egyptian bazaar. It is about 10 minutes by walk.
At the Egyptian market or spice bazaar, you can have the most local experiences.
In fact, the Egyptian bazaar is not only for shopping but is a real jump into Istanbul's history and culture. Allow your senses to explore the narrow streets, the scents, and people's voices and feelings.
Explore Karakoy, have a traditional ice cream, and enjoy the sunset
After a wander in the market and some shopping, is lunchtime. From the Egyptian bazaar, cross the Galata Bridge. Stop by the Karakoy area for some food experience.
While walking around you will find many nice outdoor restaurants and cafes. This area is popular for balık dürüm or fish wrap. If you are not a fish fan, a good alternative can be the Gozleme, a savory bread filled with cheese, potatoes, etc.
If instead, you're looking for a sweet treat, the Helva ice cream, is a pleasant discovery.
Day 03
THE ICONIC TAKSIM SQUARE, St.ANTOINE CHURCH, and GALATA TOWER
You may have heard of Taksim Square. The square is the favorite spot for social gatherings. Taksim Square is rich in restaurants, cafes, and hotels.
if you're not close to the area, you may need to take the tram to Kabatas
Head to Sultanahmet station and look for the tram going to Kabatas. No need for a transportation card, only tap your contactless bank card at the gate to access the tram.
In about 30 minutes or even less, you will be there. Walk a level down and you can take the iconic funicular to Taksim Square
Walk on Istiklal Street, do some shopping, and visit the famous Atatürk Cultural Cente
Stop by the iconic Hafiz Mustafa for some fresh lemonade and baklava. The choice of baklava can be overwhelming but believe me, you are not going to regret it.
From Taksim Square go towards Galata Tower.
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On your way to Galata Tower. take some pictures of the lovely streets, and find St. Anthony of Padua Church. This church represents one of the most old and well-preserved churches in Istanbul.
After the huge amounts of mosques you find around the city, it can be surprising to see this amazing church.
The best time to reach Galata Tower is around sunset time. Get in, watch the city from the top, and get mesmerized by the sunset.
Check the ticket on Headout for the cheapest option
Day 04
VISIT THE ASIAN SIDE OF ISTANBUL, HEAD TO KADIKOY
It's time to visit the Asian side of Istanbul and go to Kadikoy.
There are two options, you can take a boat or a tram from Sultanahmet if you're in the area.
The first thing you will notice is the difference in this part of the city.
Crowded with pubs, cafes, and tattoo shops, this part of the city looks less traditional.
At Kadakoy you can have a go with Tale Kofte.
Forget about the traditional kofte, here you can try some good meat-free alternatives.
Enjoy your day in Kadikoy. Explore the market, and admire the colorful spices and local products. Discover a remarkable selection of olives you've likely never seen before.
Snap some more pictures, and get ready to go back to Eminonu by boat.
Walk again on Galata Bridge and admire the Fishermen enjoying their life.
Is time to go back to your area, why don't you enjoy a drink in one of the many cafes with a terraced view of the Bosphorus?
Sunset from Fehmi Bey hotel terrace
Day 5
VISIT THE ANCIENT NEIGHBORHOODS OF FENER AND BALAT
You can reach the neighborhoods of Fener and Balat by bus.
As for the tram, you don't need a transport card, but you can tap your bank card and get in. It is about a 10-minute trip, so sit and enjoy the view.
Fener-Balat main attractions are the picturesque and vibrant streets
Fener was home to the historical Greek Orthodox community.
Fener has abandoned churches and colorful houses that attract tourists and photographers year-round.
Close to Fener, there is Balat which shares a lot with Fener. This neighborhood was once home to Istanbul's largest Jewish community. It still has three functioning old synagogues.
The few locals still living there, repainted the neighborhood to give a new life to the area.
You can definitely spend a whole day exploring the area. Have a bite at the cutest cafes that the neighborhood offers.
Maison Balat and café Naftalin are some of the places where you want to stop and enjoy your time. You can't say no to a cup of tea with cat-shaped cookies.
Fener-Balat market
WATCH THE SUNSET FROM A CRUISE ON THE BOSPHORUS
After spending a full day wandering through the vibrant streets of Fener-Balat, relax. What is better than a cruise during sunset time?
The Bosphorus cruise seems to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. If you don't want to waste your time and money opt for a two-hour day/sunset cruise only.
GetYourGuide can be a good option. it is about 2 hours cruise and there are couples of times to choose from.
Must try food in Istanbul
Food is a must-experience when comes to traveling.
The variety and plenty of restaurants in Istanbul can make food choices overwhelming.
Avoid restaurants that don't display menu prices if you don't want to pay extra.
Make sure not to miss out on tasting Meze, Lahmacun, Tan Tunic, Cig Kofte, Kazandibi, Baklava, Balik Ekmek, Stuffed Mussels, Borek, and Pide.
Sait Efendi Kebap and Pide mit käse
Is Istanbul a safe city?
Istanbul is pretty much a safe city, it may occur that someone will try to overcharge you. Mind your business and nothing is going to happen.
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Respect different cultures by avoiding entering a mosque inappropriately dressed.
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Be polite to market merchants who approach you.
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Don't use a taxi if you can use public transport.
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Opt for local, simple cafes and restaurants with displayed prices. They tend to offer a more friendly experience.
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Avoid fancy and over-decorated places. They can often lead to disappointment ruining your day.
What to wear in Istanbul?
There is no specific dress code rule.
Keep in mind that a big part of the country is religious. If you don't want other people's eyes on you, don't wear clothes that show too much of your body.
Istanbul is an amazing place to visit, a good contrast between Middle Eastern and Western cultures. An aesthetic city that is hard to forget.
I can't wait to go there again!!! And you? Are you going to Istanbul anytime soon?​ Drop me a message and let me know your thoughts
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