Things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul is a place not many people think of traveling to these days, but it is a city that has a lot of vibe. The people have a character which is lacking in the Western society. When one thinks of Istanbul you may be thinking of mosques and museums, but it is so much more than that. There is a lot happening in the city and new advancements are always taking place.

At the time of writing a tunnel is in the process of being built from the European side of Turkey to the Asian side, the first in the world. Turkey is the only country in the world that contains two continents, connected by a bridge. This is a city that is not too expensive, but Istanbul travel packages can also be arranged.

Shopping in Istanbul

There is serious shopping to be done in this place. Things like carpets, cushions, beautiful Turkish tiles are available at the shops on the streets. You might also want to take some Turkish coffee or apple tea which is popular in Turkey home with you.

You can’t come to Instanbul and not visit the Spice Bazaar or the Grand Bazaar. You will find the Spice Bazaar a lot cheaper and a little less touristy so this might be more up your alley. You can even take one of the Istanbul travel tours, which will show you most of the shopping bazaars and markets.

Dining in Istanbul

Walk down the streets of Istanbul and find a spot to rest your weary legs. Once you have found a place, which is not difficult don’t go and sit at a table like you would at home, but experience the Turkish culture and relax on the comfortable cushions on the floor eating Turkish kebabs and sampling a Turkish coffee to finish off with. The food in Turkey is really good so don’t miss out on this. This is one of the best Istanbul Travel tips I would give. Just experience the atmosphere. Backpackers travel Istanbul in a different style and will enjoy lounging out on sofas in the streets of Istanbul over Turkish coffees.

Bosphorus cruise

Take a trip over the Bosphorus Strait into Asia, just a few minutes and you are into another continent, experiencing a whole new way of life. The scenery of this trip is also incredible, going past a lot of Turkish culture so just soak it all in. You can opt for a much cheaper ferry or take a tour with an Istanbul travel guide.

Travel Istanbul and Cappadocia

I don’t think it’s possible to come to Turkey without going on a trip to Ephesus. After Jerusalem this is the place with the most history and has to be seen to be believed. You can get an overnight bus tour from Istanbul which will include Cappadocia, another mind blowing experience. However most people fly to Ephesus and take a tour when they get there because it is a 9 hour trip from Istanbul to Ephesus. This can be arranged through an Istanbul travel agent as well.

Travel Istanbul Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque

The palace is beautiful with typically decorated Turkish tiles dating back hundreds of years ago. Gold structures are everywhere. You will get a map so you won’t get lost and it is definitely worth your while getting an audio guide so you will know what is what.  At the Blue Mosque, another famous landmark make sure you are dressed appropriately otherwise you will not be allowed in.