The Varied UNESCO sites
Istanbul is a highly diverse city, where Western and Eastern cultures mix to create a unique atmosphere. Together, these different cultures have created an incredible range of UNESCO sites and landmarks, all of which are among the most impressive places to visit in Asia part of Istanbul. Among the places that attract most of the attention are the Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar. The Topkapi Palace is the former residence of the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire and it is now a museum with a wealth of historical artifacts from the palace’s days as a royal residence. Further, the Grand Bazaar is the oldest shopping center in the world and it has more than 3,000 shops, which make up a great part of the Istanbul shopping scene.
Also, another place that is worth a visit on the Asia part of Istanbul is the Dolmabahce Palace. It was built in the mid-19th century and it was designed to be a lavish home for the Sultans. The palace is renowned for its architecture and it’s a great place to get an insight into the Ottoman Empire. Furthermore, in the Asia part of Istanbul, visitors can also find the Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church and mosque that is now a museum, where people can learn about the history of the city.
Apart from the UNESCO sites, there are various other attractions and activities that make the city of Istanbul even more interesting to visit. The city has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, which attract a lot of tourists during the summer months. Some of the best beaches can be found at Haylaz, Goynuk and the Golden Horn. Among other places that should not be missed are the Yerebatan Cistern, Sultanahmet Square, and the Basilica Cistern.
Seaside attractions
Besides the cultural and historical attractions, the Asia part of Istanbul has some of the best seaside attractions. One of them is the Bosphorus cruise. This cruise runs along the Straits of the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara and it offers a unique way to explore the city and its stunning coastline. Besides this, visitors can also find a range of other attractions, such as the Asian side beaches or the coastal bus tour, which offers a great way to discover the city and its culture.
Moreover, the city also has numerous shopping malls and good places to dine. Shopping is a big deal in Istanbul, as there are an abundance of shops to purchase clothes, jewelry, homeware, and souvenirs. Additionally, some of the best places to dine in Asia part of Istanbul include Akbik Restaurant, which offers traditional Ottoman cuisine, and Medicana Camlica, which offers a range of international dishes.
The following attractions are also popular among tourists in the Asia part of Istanbul: Maiden’s Tower, Rumeli Fortress, Moda Club, and Rahmi Koc Museum. The Maiden’s Tower is a tiny island located just off the coast of the city and it houses an amazing story. The Rumeli Fortress was built by the Ottomans in the 15th century. Moda Club, located in the Kadikoy district, is a popular nightlife spot with music, dancing, and entertainment. Last but not least, the Rahmi Koc Museum is a warehouse of interesting artifacts and curiosities, showing visitors different aspects of the city’s history.
Enjoy a Turk Coffee Experience
The city of Istanbul has many attractions, but one of the most characteristic activities in the area is to enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee. This coffee has been an important part of the local culture for centuries and it is a great way to learn more about the Turkish way of life. Besides that, the city is full of cafes where you can enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee and some snacks.
Despite the fact that it is possible to find cafes with international menus, the best experience is to try the authentic Turkish coffee. This coffee is ground finely and it is boiled in a special pot called a cezve. Additionally, it can be also served with a variety of flavors like cardamom, which gives it a special flavor and aroma.
If visitors want to have an even more authentic experience with the traditional Turkish coffee, it is possible to find small kiosks called mangalhan which offer this kind of experience. These kiosks are usually found in parks and other romantic places.
Cultural Events and Festivals
Istanbul is home to a vast array of cultural events and festivals, from traditional ones to modern-day events. One of the most important and traditional festivals is the Istanbul International Film Festival, where movies from all over the world are screened. This festival offers an opportunity to explore a variety of different cultures and to get an insight into the history and present of the city.
Besides the Istanbul International Film Festival, the city hosts other major cultural events throughout the year. The Janissary Music Festival celebrates the music of the Ottoman Empire and it brings together musicians from all over the world. Another important event in Istanbul is the Istanbul Jazz Festival, which attracts some of the world’s best jazz musicians.
There are also many smaller festivals, such as the Surname Acrobatic Ballet Festival, where acrobatic dancers showcase their skills. Additionally, during the summer months, the city hosts a range of musical concerts and performances. One of the most popular events is the Acrobatic Ballet Festival, which takes place in the Istanbul Arena and it offers an unforgettable experience to visitors.
A Culinary Paradise
When it comes to food, Istanbul offers a wide variety of options. On the Asia part of the city, visitors can find a range of traditional Turkish dishes, as well as some international food. The most typical Turkish dishes are kofte, kebab, baklava, and lahmacun. Kofte is a dish of meatballs, which is served with yoghurt and rice. Similarly, kebab is a type of grilled meat, which is usually served with salad and rice. Baklava is a type of pastry, filled with nuts and syrup, which is a must-try dessert. Lahmacun is a type of Turkish thin pizza, filled with minced meat, vegetables, and spices.
Moreover, Istanbul also has a wide range of international restaurants. From Italian to Mexican, visitors can find just about any cuisine they like. Some of the most popular ones are Italian Restaurant Adriani, Mekaniski Turkish-Mexican Fusion, and Asian Restaurant Fusion Garden. These restaurants offer delicious dishes, made with local and fresh ingredients, served in a great atmosphere.
Apart from restaurants, visitors can also find a range of street food stalls. These stalls can be found almost everywhere and they offer a range of different snacks, such as gözleme (a kind of Turkish wrap) and ice cream. Also, street food is a great way to try some interesting and cheap dishes.
Experience the Local Lifestyle
One of the most exciting things to do while visiting Asia part of Istanbul is to experience the local lifestyle. The marketplaces in this part of the city are full of life and they offer visitors a great opportunity to explore the local culture. Here one can find an array of items, from traditional clothing, spices, and antiques to modern goods. Additionally, these markets are also a great place to find souvenirs for friends and family.
The Asia part of Istanbul also offers a great opportunity to try some traditional activities. One of them is to visit an Ottoman bath, which is perfect for those who want to relax after a day of sightseeing. Additionally, visitors can also learn about the culture and customs of the local people. This can be done by attending local festivities, like the Who is going to Tell What Festival and the Festival of Folklore. Last but not least, visitors can also attend some workshops and learn more about the arts, crafts, and culinary skills of this part of Turkey.
