Istanbul is located in the northwest of Turkey along the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe from Asia and is the only city in the world that lies on two continents, but nevertheless remains primarily European.
A walk through the city is much more than just seeing the Blue Mosque of Sultan Ahmed, the Topkapi Palace of the Ottoman Sultans, the Basilica of Saint Sophia, the Kapali Bazaar, ..., because before you know it, the walk turns into unpredictable wanderings through side streets that reveal an authentic image of Istanbul. Mysterious atriums, intimate cafes, local markets, small galleries, salons, streets of strong aromas of spices and tea, the glitter of minarets, mosques, stone and wooden houses. Istanbul is a mysterious treasure of the "old" world, which elegantly intertwines with the modern.
HEART OF THE OLD REGION
Hostels, especially in the area of Sultanahmet, where travelers from all over the world meet, are also suitable for those with a shallower wallet. When you walk around Sultanahmet, the heart of the old part of Istanbul, where the streets take us to the world of Turkish carpets, colorful spices, all the way to the Grand Bazaar, charmed and already tired of all the beauty of the city, you must stop by the Antique Gallery restaurant and cafe. As the name itself suggests, the restaurant offers not only good food, but also a romantic atmosphere, and the comfortable ambience has a very relaxing effect on the traveler. The menu is dominated by delicious seafood dishes, curries and Turkish kebabs. In the evenings, indulge yourself in traditional Turkish music and enjoy belly dancers.
WHEN WE TALK ABOUT THE CITY
Istanbul is the capital of the three largest empires with a rich cultural and historical heritage. It is the meeting point of Europe and Asia, two continents through which knowledge and ideas, inventions and trade flowed. When we get to know Istanbul, at every step we hear the name, if not the entire biography of the father of modern Turkey, Atatürk. He was its first president, who transformed Turkey into a modern and pro-European republic through a series of reforms. To the Turks, he still represents the pillar of 20th century Turkey, and few leaders have achieved so much in such a short time. He was also a lover of art and culture, especially theatre. The only way to get a peek into this part of his personality as well is to walk up to Pera Palas Oteli and see room 101 on the second floor. Today his room is a museum. His paintings should definitely be part of your trip.
ISTANBUL YOUNG
Istiklal Caddesi is the main street in the Beyoglu area, starting at Taksim Square and ending at the Tunnel, on the way to all the main tourist attractions. The street, closed to traffic, is full of city charms - a special attraction is the red tram, there are a wide variety of shops with fashion accessories, clothes and music, bookstores, restaurants, cafes. Nightlife is more than taken care of, but it may not be superfluous to hint that the special feast for the eyes and ears is the dance of belly dancers, not female dancers. And don't forget to take a stroll along the renovated French street Cezayir Sokak. It is known for its elegance – the Parisian style of cafes and restaurants.
FLIGHT OVER THE CITY
Istanbul from a bird's eye view. If you are looking for a place with a panoramic view of the city, the best choice is Besinci Kat in the modern part of Istanbul, in the Taksim area. While you are still sitting in Europe, your view from the terrace is already escaping to the streets of Turkish Asia. An open terrace and a flight over the city - the silhouette of Istanbul in magical colors. The colorful ambiance that you have been searching for unknowingly. Authentic. Go for breakfast or indulge in the magic of the view from the fifth floor in the evening. Enjoy the healthy food of Turkish cuisine, which is offered to you by the restaurant, where the friendly smile of the waiter conjures up a good day.
TEA GARDENS
Cay Bahcesi or the tea garden is a place to socialize and have a pleasant chat over tea with apple, black Turkish tea or maybe just Turkish coffee. And if you're lucky, your coffee will open the world to your future. Ortokay, once a fishing village, is now a center for young people, so you must visit it on Saturday and Sunday. It boasts a waterfront dotted with traditional gardens where you will be served tea and other traditional drinks. If you want a slightly different view of the city, then Ali Camlica on the Asian side is for you, where mainly believers gather. Here you will slow down the pace of life and find the inner peace that comes from the serenity of women with headscarves drinking tea and the spontaneous play of children. From here you can see the Bosphorus, the Sea of Marmara and the natural harbor of the Golden Horn. More than wonderful.
A DIFFERENT WORLD
Turkish bath or hammam. This is a space dedicated exclusively to relaxation, cleaning and socializing. In the flood of tourist baths, it is better to find one of the local hammams in one of the districts, as these are more authentic and much cheaper.
