The cosmopolitan city of Istanbul is located on the continents of both Europe and Asia and has plenty to offer on both sides.
If you’re planning on visiting, there are several major attractions, which are must-dos, but there are also plenty of great experiences and sites to see that are under the radar.
Aga Hamami
Address: Kuloglu Mh., Turnacibasi Cd. No:48
An integral part of Turkish culture is the hammam. Turks visit the hammam regularly to relax, socialize, and get scrubbed from top to toe. During a visit to Istanbul, don’t miss your chance to visit an authentic Turkish hammam, which is an experience unique to Turkey. Most hammams are open to either men or women, but there are some coed exceptions, including the fantastic Aga Hamami, which also happens to be the oldest Turkish bath in Istanbul.
There are hammams for every budget, and as such the hammams themselves range from bare bones to extremely luxurious. Whatever your travel style, make sure to include a hammam on your to do list.
Olden 1772
Adress: Mimar Vedat Sk. No:3 Sirkeci
While visiting Istanbul, you’ll notice two ubiquitous foods – the kebab and the simit. The Turkish version of a kebab is probably not what you’re envisioning. In Turkey, those are called “brochettes” and the preparation and presentation of Turkish kebabs vary according to where you’re eating.
Simit is the Turkish equivalent of a bagel and is sold by more street vendors than there are hot dog vendors in New York City.
Both foods are worth a try, however there are also some top-notch restaurants in Istanbul that are worthy of a reservation and a night out. One of the most beautiful is Olden 1772. Located in a 250-year-old historic building, the restaurant features brick walls, soaring ceilings, and a show stopping chandelier.
Serving innovative takes on traditional Turkish cuisine using local products, dinner here makes for a very special night out.
Dolmabahce Palace
Address: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357
Topkapi Palace may get the lion’s share of the glory due to its religious artefacts, but it’s Dolmabahce Palace that’s truly breathtaking. Although Dolmabahce is certainly not short on visitors, it hasn’t achieved the notoriety of Topkapi and therefore isn’t on the traditional tour group circuit, which makes it more peaceful to visit.
But peacefulness aside, this spectacular and sprawling palace was home to six sultans, their wives, children, and mothers, and you can visit both the public and private halls, bedrooms, and more, which have been well-preserved to this day.
Balat Neighborhood and Café Dora
Address: Balat, Vodina Cd. No: 55/A
Get away from it all with a visit to the colorful Balat neighborhood, where grandmothers gossip across balconies, and two rottweilers rule the roost at Café Dora. Christianity, Judaism, and Islam are all represented here, through its churches, mosques, and synagogues. The neighborhood is incredibly quirky and picturesque, featuring antique shops, laid-back coffeehouses, and more.
A visit to Istanbul wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Taksim Square. This lively district features everything from freestanding big brand stores such as Adidas to small independent Turkish retailers. The energy is electric, and you can shop ‘til you drop.
