Travel Guide to Istanbul
Istanbul is simply breathtaking. It's a must-visit destination hosting beautiful religious sites, colorful streets, historical bazaars, heavenly cuisine, and an endless number of cats. IMO, it's not a city you can cover in 1 or 2 or even 3 days. The architecture alone is mind-blowing and can be easily gazed at for hours. In fact, I feel like I barely even scratched the surface. Come and wander in its narrow streets, sip on endless cups of Turkish tea, and discover an Istanbul that's extraordinarily unique. Here's my guide to visiting this ancient city.
Flying to Istanbul
Depending on your nationality, a visa may be required to enter Turkey. E-visas can be obtained upon application online, and visas on arrival are also available for certain nationalities.
Within the last 72 hours prior to travel, all passengers must complete a required form for 'Entry to Turkey' online. Upon submission of the form, an HES code will be created automatically based on the given information. Save the form and print a hard copy as you may have to show it at the borders upon entry, and later. It was required by my airline, hotel, and a few attractions and museums to enter.
COVID Requirements
For vaccinated passengers, you can present a vaccination certificate if you've completed both doses at least 14 days before arrival. A PCR test is not required for vaccinated passengers. Rules may change, so always check official government websites.
Transport from & to the Airport
Taxi: Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There are 3 types: Orange C type taxis (most affordable), Blue D type taxis (more expensive), and Black Luxury E type taxis (most expensive).
Hotel Transfers: You can arrange to book private transfer services where you are greeted by an agent at the exit gate and escorted to the vehicle. The price I was quoted by my hotel was 49 Euros for one way up to 4 guests.
Istanbul Airport Taxis (my pick): A private transport company that I booked after reading about on TripAdvisor forums. The cost was 29 Euros for one way, which is equivalent to 300 Turkish Liras.
How to Get Around
Walking: Istanbul is a very walkable city in most parts. Highly recommend wandering about by foot to explore its streets and narrow alleys. I can't stress enough the importance of wearing comfortable shoes.
Bus, tram, metro, and ferry: The entire time I spent in Istanbul, I didn't use any taxis. The public transport system is pretty impressive, easy to navigate, clean, and safe. I bought an Istanbulkart which I reloaded with credit at the many top-up stations located near tram stations or metro.
Taxis: All taxis should have running meters. If the driver doesn't start the meter, ask them to. Some might say there's a flat rate which shouldn't be the case. If they refuse, simple. Get out.
Where to Stay
My recommendation would be to stay in the European side of Istanbul. Based on my thorough research, the 2 best districts to stay in are Beyoğlu and Sultanahmet, the latter being closer to the bazaars and mosques; therefore, very touristy.
Hotel DeCamondo: Was a fantastic choice with glowing reviews, located just a few minutes walk to the Galata Tower and about a 7 min walk to the tram line. It's a former home turned boutique hotel, and is beautifully designed with woodwork everywhere. One of many highlights of this place is the rooftop lounge where you also have breakfast.
What to See & Do
Hagia Sophia: The architecturally stunning Hagia Sophia that stands today was built in the 6th century by the Roman Emperor Justinian as a cathedral, believed to be the world's largest church at the time. It became a mosque in 1453 with the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople and was later converted into a museum in 1934. In 2020, it was turned back into a mosque, and is still open for all visitors. Absolutely beautiful.
Süleymaniye Mosque: Built between 1550 and 1557 by architect Mimar Sinan for Sultan Suleyman 'The Magnificent' on 1 of the 7 beautiful hills of Istanbul. It is just stunning, and relatively visitor-free compared to the Hagia Sophia. Every corner of the interior is decorated with stained-glass windows, Iznik tiles, calligraphy, and an orange-red carpet.
Topkapi Palace: Mehmet the Conqueror ordered the building of the palace shortly after he had conquered Constantinople in 1453. It became the home of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. A visit is a fantastic glimpse into the lives of the sultans.
Grand Bazaar: A labyrinth of narrow covered lanes filled with thousands of shops selling jewelry, antiques, clothing, and souvenirs. Originally built in the 15th century for merchants to sell their goods.
Spice Bazaar: Built in the 1660s, this market is the 2nd most famous after the Grand Bazaar. The second you enter, you'll be distracted by the scent of its exotic spices and the rich blend of its colors.
Galata Tower: Considered among the oldest towers in the world, first built in the 6th century. It's now a museum with an observation balcony offering jaw-dropping views of the city.
Istiklal Caddesi and Taksim Square: Probably the busiest 2 areas in all of Istanbul. Istiklal Street is lined with 19th century buildings housing retail shops, restaurants, and museums. At night, the city is buzzing with people, musicians, and performers.
Asian side: While I absolutely loved the European side of the city, I was far more enthralled by the Asian side. Getting there involves a scenic 20 min ferry ride. The Kadikoy Produce Market is an incredibly colorful bazaar selling everything from fish to pickle juice.
Tips for Visiting Religious Sites
1) Ladies, bring a scarf to cover your hair & avoid shorts (same for gents).
2) Carry a small bag to store your shoes as no shoes are allowed inside.
3) Lines to enter Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace can be super long midday onwards. Arrive early.
4) Certain mosques only open for tourists outside of prayer times.
Where to Eat
Istanbul on Food Tours: I booked 2 tours which were fantastic, particularly the 'Taste of 2 Continents' tour. We covered SO much ground, not just keeping our mouths full, but also exploring favorite parts of the city and learning about the city's history.
Karadeniz Doner Asim Usta: Rumored to be the best doner spot in the city. First thing you'll see is a ginormous kebap rotating around the spit. I opted for the kebap in pide bread which arrived packed with tomato slices, green capsicum, and pickles.
Dürümzade: Hailed by Anthony Bourdain as 'absolutely delicious'. The masterchefs add red chili oil to the bread and let it soak up all the meat juices while grilling. Out of this world.
Kumpir: A baked potato cut open, mashed with butter and grated cheese, and a party of fillings inside. Best one I've had was at Granny's Waffles & Kumpir in Moda.
Kızılkayalar Hamburger: Istanbul's famous 'wet burger'. A special sauce is poured on the bread & meat, soaking it. The burgers are piled high & stocked into a steam chamber. Surprisingly delicious.
Midye Dolma: Stuffed mussels found practically everywhere in Istanbul. They're stuffed with rice, spices, and raisins. A magical combination.
Where to Shop
Grand Bazaar: For souvenirs, coasters, lamps, and home decor items.
Turkish Modern: Beautiful rafik leather shoes, made based on an ancient Turkish shoemaking tradition.
Yargici: Loved the sandals and shoes here.
Clandestino: Loved the bohemian style clothing and jewelry.
Istanbul, simply breathtaking.
