Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city and the location of many historical and cultural sites, is a fascinating place for visitors looking for a destination that features elements of both European and Asian cultures. Although there is really no bad time to travel to Istanbul, visitors who want to avoid extreme temperatures find that the best times to visit are during the spring and fall months. Winters in the area can be very cold and summers can be extremely hot, but the fall and spring months offer a moderate, agreeable climate. If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul sometime soon, here are some tips on where to stay, where to eat, and what to see while you’re there.
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Where to Stay: If money is no object, the Bosphorus Palace comes highly recommended. The hotel is a historical site and dates back about 200 years. Previous visitors have described it as an excellent place for a honeymoon or romantic stay. If you’re on a budget, you might try the Orient Hostel, which is located near some important cultural sites and provides clean, comfortable, and basic accommodations for a reasonable price. Another option is the Empress Zoe, also located near popular tourist locations. This hotel is notable for the excellent service provided by the staff, as well as for it’s competitive pricing.
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Where to Eat: Istanbul is well known for its historic seafood restaurants. Try the snapper, sea bass, or levrek at the Balikci Sabahattin, and order some candied pumpkin for dessert before you leave. Or try the Sultanahmet Fish House. You may want to make reservations for this place, because they tend to be very busy at dinner time, but even if you have to wait a little, the food is worth it. Try the saffron sea bass or the shrimp casserole, and finish off the meal with a dessert of baked sesame paste and ice cream. During your stay in Istanbul,you should also be sure to taste some of the other regional specialties such as Turkish Delight, baklava, and Turkish marzipan.
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What to See: You will definitely want to visit the Hagia Sophia. This museum began as an Orthodox patriarchal basilica in the year 360 and was later converted to a mosque in 1453. The domed building is a classic example of Byzantine architecture and contains interesting examples of both Christian and Islamic art. Another popular site to visit is the the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque due to the blue tiling on the interior walls. Be sure to also stop by the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest covered markets. With more than 3,000 shops to explore, you could easily lose yourself in this fascinating shopping experience.
The people of Istanbul are known for being friendly and welcoming to visitors, and a stay in the city will end up being an unforgettable experience. When traveling around the city, it pays to familiarize yourself with the local bus system; the drivers are usually helpful, the fares are reasonable, and with a little effort, you should be able to navigate your way around the city with a minimum of hassle.
