Istanbul is a booming city is a megacity and the capital of Turkey, situated on the both the european and Asiatic continent. It is an ancient and inspiring metropolis full of culture and history. With its magical atmosphere, Istanbul has something for everyone, so it’s no wonder the city is so popular with tourists. But how much time should you allow for a visit there?
Well, the answer depends on what you like doing and how much you want to see. A two-day visit will give you enough time to cover a lot of the city’s highlights. Firstly, you can take a stroll through Sultanahmet Square where you will have easy access to the iconic Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace. Secondly, you could take a Bosphorus Cruise to get a different perspective of the city. This journey along the Strait of Istanbul will give you the chance to admire the beautiful scenery and experience a world of two continents. Thirdly, a day can also be spent in the Grand Bazaar, where you could bargain for souvenirs and decorations or just walk around and discover the trading centres’ many small shops. To experience the vibrant nightlife, staying for two or three nights might be necessary.
When actually visiting Istanbul, it is recommended to break your day up into parts. For instance, an ideal itinerary would be to start early in the morning and explore either the historical sites or museum. This would also enable you to take some breaks as you please and avoid the heat of the day. After lunch, you could do less strenuous activities such as visit a mosque, have some Turkish Delight, or take a walk down one of Istanbul’s picturesque neighbourhoods. And, if you plan to shop, make sure to set aside some time before or after dinner time to visit one of the local bazaars before returning to your hotel.
Apart from being the largest city in Turkey, Istanbul is home to some of the most renowned cultural sites in the world. The unique culture, the bustling and vibrant atmosphere, and the unforgettable views of various buildings and monuments make Istanbul a great choice for visiting. In addition to its wealth of cultural attractions, it is full of delicious Turkish cuisine and nightlife that can add to the experience. So, depending on what type of traveller you are, you should plan your time accordingly and tailor it to fit your needs.
Public Transport
Public transport in Istanbul is convenient and relatively affordable for visitors. Most of the popular tourist attractions can be easily accessed by using the metro, tram, buses or ferries. This is especially true in the Old City and along the Bosphorus ferry line, where most of the popular attractions are located. In addition to these options, taxis are available but they may be more expensive depending on where you are travelling. From the airport, you can take the Express Metro, which takes you to the city centre in less than an hour.
Weather
Istanbul is unique compared to other cities, as it enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate and can be visited year-round. It is generally warmer than in other regions of Europe, and particularly in summer (June- August) with high temperatures often reaching the mid-30s. During winter time (November-February) the temperatures can drop low so it is best to check the weather forecast before packing for your trip.
Accomodation
Istanbul has plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets, catering to different tastes and needs. For those who are looking for typical hotels in the city centre, there are plenty of options, ranging from 5-star luxury to budget-friendly places. For those looking for a more unique experience, there are many boutique hotels and guest houses scattered around various neighbourhoods. Travelers looking to save more money can also opt for couchsurfing or self-catering apartments.
Food
Turkish cuisine is probably the most well-known in the world, so eating out should definitely feature in your itinerary. From the renowned kebabs and pita to the local sweet delight Baklava, Turkish food is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The city also boasts an interesting and varied range of international restaurants, most of which can be found in Beyoğlu district, an area that still retains much of its historical charm. Do not forget to visit a traditional Turkish tea house and sample some Turkish tea or its famous coffee.
