As a person who likes solo traveling a lot, Istanbul is one of the places I wish to visit. You might wonder why Istanbul, right? That is because you don’t know about the beauty of this place’s rich culture, heritage, history, and culinary experience is something you might never see anywhere else.
In a case study, it was mentioned that “Local communities of Istanbul are developed with tourism, utilizing their resources. These resources may include cultural and natural assets and tangible and intangible heritage”(Sustainable tourism community : A case study of Istanbul, 2020).
So here I am today. I’ll talk to you about how you can explore Istanbul like a pro and why you should consider taking the help of the Istanbul Travel Agency. If you wish to travel to Istanbul, then make sure you don’t miss out on any of the details.
Top tips and insider information to explore Istanbul like a pro
Here are some of the practical and tested strategies to captivate the true essence of Istanbul:
- Istanbul’s geography
To start with, Istanbul’s geography is divided into the European side, the Asian side, and the Bosphorus Strait. The European side houses the top areas like Karakoy, Taksim, and Sultanahment. The Asiam side covers the top neighborhoods like Uskudur and Kadikoy.
The Bosphorus Strait offers stunning views and the best chance to experience life on the water. When it comes to selecting the different places according to your itinerary, Kadikoy is perfect for a local vibe, Taksim advocates for amazing nightlife, and Sultanahmet is ideal for historical attractions.
- Must-to-visit places
Secondly, the must-visit places in Istanbul are Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, The Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern, and Galata Tower.
A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia was earlier a cathedral, then converted to a mosque, and is currently a museum
The Topkapi Palace offers a right glimpse into the royal life of Ottoman sultans with its Harem, lavish rooms, and stunning courtyards. The Blue Mosque is ideal for its blue tiles, and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is an architectural marvel. Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered market, which helps lose yourself among the different shops selling textiles and spices.
Basilica Cistern is an ancient water reservoir supported by different columns, offering the right underground world. It offers a mystical experience with its atmospheric lighting and serene reflections. Galata Tower offers a panoramic view of the city and is best during the sunset.
- Navigating Istanbul
The public transportation system of Istanbul is highly budget-friendly and effective. It is easy for you to move between the European and Asian sides using the ferries, metro, and trams.
You can go for a rechargeable transit card, offering different discounts on public transport. Called an Istanbulkart, it can be used for ferries, metro, and trams. Taking a breathtaking view of the skyline and offering the right means of transportation.
Take a look at this statistic below that shows how people are missing out on Istanbul even though it is one of the most beautiful cities in Turkey.
- Enjoying the local cuisine
A culinary paradise, Istanbul offers a range of flavors covering street food and fine dining options. You can enjoy the famous fish sandwich called balik ekmek, doner kebab, or the sesame-covered bread called simit near the Galata Bridge.
It is easy to order the local meze appetizers, and anise-flavored spirit called raki, and enjoy your meal at a tavern or meyhame. Indulging in Baklava helps complete your visit to Istanbul. It is a sweet and flaky dessert soaked in syrup.
- Understanding the local customs
It is easy to enhance your experience in Istanbul by understanding the local customs like greetings and dress codes. You must greet in Istanbul with a firm handshake and say Merhaba or hello. You must remove your shoes while entering mosques or homes.
All the religious sites require modest dresses, even if Istanbul is cosmopolitan. Women need to cover their knees and shoulders, while the men must avoid wearing shorts.
- Considering day trips
Last but not least, you must consider day trips to the nearby attractions in Istanbul. It refers to Princes Islands, Catalhoyuk, Ephesus, and Pamukkale.
Princes Islands are ideal for your day of relaxation with a short ferry ride, horse-drawn carriage tour, and bike rides.
Catalhoyuk is an ancient site in Istanbul that offers the right insights into the world’s oldest urban settlements. Ephesus and Pamukkale are worth considering on your trip to Istanbul. Ephesus has a range of ancient cities, while Pamukkale offers amazing travertine terraces.
FUN FACT
Istanbul was the most crowded city in the world in 1502
Summing words
To sum up, Istanbul offers the right combination of experience, engagement, and entertainment to its visitors. It is easy to follow the above guide and enjoy our trip to the city rich in culture and history. Not to miss is selecting the right Istanbul travel agency for creating unforgettable memories in Istanbul.
