ISTANBUL

It’s weird how one destination is very cliché for a market while super interesting for another market. However, I see Istanbul as a destination that has many faces. You can choose what you want to see and experience. If you want history then it is the place, if you want shopping and lifestyle then it is also the place, if you’re a family you have a lot of options. Istanbul is diverse and has been evolving rapidly.

If this is your first time there then you can follow my suggested program below. You would be seeing the basics and major sights. However, if this is like your 100 times as me then I generally go for chillaxing.

I usually stay in Nisantasi area as it has many shopping outlets as well as street cafes and restaurants. During the day, I spend my days over there. On sunny days, I love walking by the Bosphorus in Bebek area.

One time I stayed in one of the Marriott hotels by the Bosphorus which is close to Eminonu and I walked by the bridge to the Spice Bazaar.

I consider doing a Turkish Bath as a ritual because it is an experience like no other. It is better than a massage in a modern spa and I prefer doing it in an old authentic Turkish Bath rather than a five star hotel. My favorite is Cagaoglu Hamami.

Another ritual that I do every time I visit Istanbul is a real Turkish Breakfast with all of the small assortments of cheeses and jams. There are many options to try, you can choose to stay in a hotel without breakfast and try each one daily. My favorite is Lokma is Rumeli Hisari.

what to do?

day 1

Most of the times I fly MEA to Istanbul for two reasons. First and obvious reason is collecting miles and getting free trips later. Second and more importantly is the price of excess baggage is cheaper with MEA than Turkish Airlines. Once I arrive to the airport, I always take a cab myself. However, if I’m flying with other than my husband then I prebook a 7 seater. This is a must. My stay in 99% in Nisantasi and on my first day of arrival I stay there. I love walking the area and discovering its boutiques and cafes. You will see more locals than any other areas of the city. It’s the crowd that I like.

day 2

Although I have done the basic of the city but from time to time I love visiting again the historical sights. By the way, you can either book this tour with us or discover it on your own by walking the Sultanahmet area. Make sure to see its mosque known as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace.

day 3

Nothing beats the hustle of the real souks of the city. I really enjoying doing the bazaar, the tasting of free food and the bargaining for no reason. It is a fun activity on its own. More importantly, I like walking the Eminunu bridge to continue to the Spice and Grand Bazaar. Don’t miss all what is in between and the local cafes at the bazaar for a quick Turkish tea break.

day 4

Another authentic area that is always interesting is the area of Galata and Pera. Here you will discover another face of the city. You will walk some small up and down hills but it is worth it. You will walk through the small streets of the city and see many local brands and many artistic ones. I always fancy restaurants that offer daily local dishes and you can find a lot in Karakoy with a view over the Bosphorus. After lunch, keep walking toward Istiklal street that never sleeps and take a photo of the traditional red tram.