Experience Istanbul like a local
Insider’s Guide to Istanbul
Experience Istanbul like a local
Istanbul is an immense and booming global city with some 15 million people spread over seven hills and two continents. Vast and varied, Türkiye’s throbbing heart offers a parade of big sensations, from gazing up at the lofty gold dome at Hagia Sophia, to sampling baklava from a family-owned bakery, or sailing gently up the Bosporus with Europe on one side and Asia on the other.
Istanbul is not a one-and-done destination, but a nonstop labyrinth of delightful discovery. Repeat visitors are common, coming back for the outstanding food scene, world class shopping, and for the relaxing (and affordable) wellness traditions. From my first glance, I fell in love with Istanbul’s balconied streets and glittering skyline of minarets. Filming a travel documentary allowed me the chance to pound the streets (and ride the ferries) and come to appreciate the intimate individuality of each neighborhood.
Every stone tells a story in Istanbul, so consider taking a full or half-day tour for an introduction to some of the city’s grander highlights.
What to See and Do
Istanbul is excellent for merely wandering and watching and enjoying daily life on your own terms. Istanbul is the perfect place to simply soak up the magic and vibrancy of a foreign destination which only comes from roaming its streets. A great way to do this is either on your own, or through a guided walking tour, which will ground you in the vast history of this ancient city, such as Europe Express’s full day mosaics tour.
Take a Sunset Stroll Across the Golden Horn
As the dusk rolls in, the Galata Bridge comes to life with fisherman taking up post all along the walkway. Step across the mirrored waterway that served so many ancient empires, enjoy the busy twilight scenery, and drop into any of the bridge-side restaurants that specialize in local seafood.
Gasp at the View From Galata Tower
Istanbul is all about the views, and nothing lets you appreciate its vastness like the panorama at the top of this tall stone landmark. Built by Genoese traders back in 1348, the “Tower of Christ” highlights this spot where humans have lived for over 8,000 years.
Barter for Goods at the Grand Bazaar
Get the full experience of the quintessential Turkish bazaar. Lose yourself in the miles and miles of shops with great finds in leather-craft, textiles, carpets, thick towels and quality linens, metalware and ceramics, as well as one-of-a-kind jewelry, art, and of course—spices. Bartering is a cherished tradition and part of the experience. Remember, this is a city built on global enterprise. For antique treasures, go up the hill to the narrow shop-filled lanes of Çukurcuma.
Step back in time at Saint Sophia
Built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, the Hagia Sophia was the spiritual center for both Eastern Christianity as well as Muslims. The mighty domed cathedral was the largest building on earth for more than a millennium. Today, it’s an active mosque where thousands come daily to pray.
Take in the Splendors of Topkapı Hill
Sultanahmet City Square (with its pink granite obelisk) was once the Hippodrome where ancient Romans cheered at mass sporting events—some of the original structure still remains. Across the broad green park stands the recently renovated Blue Mosque, with a gigantic Ottoman dome held up by six minarets that dates back to the early 17th century. The unforgettable color comes from the blue İznik tiles, similar to the amazing tile-work at the Topkapi Palace, once the royal residence to Ottomans. Take time to see the sizable collection, including over 10,000 pieces of Chinese porcelain.
Experience Istanbul by Night
Istanbul’s playful energy takes over after dark when people disperse in a melee of ferries and yachts, subway trains, and zooming traffic. From live jazz to clubbing to Michelin-star dining to belly dancing, it’s always an adventure. If heading out on your own seems daunting, try a tour of Istanbul by night.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Istanbul is a maritime city so make a point of getting out on the water. Public ferries crisscross the strait all day and late into the night. For a change of pace, float over to the ‘Asian Side’ and explore the funky streets of Kadiköy, or take a morning cruise on the Bosphorus.
What to Taste
Istanbul is a food paradise in every category, so come hungry. Turks love all things fresh and aromatic, including spiced vegetables, savory grilled meats, and sharp cheese, served with steamy tear-apart breads, delicate sweets, and thick, potent coffee. A typical meal involves a lot of sharing of meze (appetizers), followed by a fish or meat course. Try a little of everything and see what you like on a food tour.
Pide
A long boat-shaped baked flatbread filled with tomato sauce, cheese, veggies, or meat. Lahmacun is a rounder version with a thinner, crispier crust. Both are popular in the evening as a meal in street cafés.
Simit
A circular ring of baked bread sprinkled with toasted sesame seed. Hawkers sell them fresh and chewy all around Sultanahmet. A common snack for commuters, you can always grab a Simit outside a subway station or ferry stop.
Manti
Delicate hand-rolled dumplings, stuffed with steaming hot melted butter, garlic yogurt and red pepper and tangy sumac.
Torshi
Salted pickles (torshi) can include everything from cauliflower to carrots. Sharp and crunchy, they make a terrific meze served with an aperitif like raki.
Raki
This twice-distilled grape liqueur is flavored with sharp anis and served diluted with water, turning the shot a milky white. The drink is usually paired with salty mezze, before or after a meal. At around 50% alcohol, two shots of raki is usually enough. Anymore and you might miss out on the next morning’s tour.
Olives
As a culinary stable, salted olives and quality olive oil are served with most meals. Taste endless different varieties at the open food markets or the corner groceries.
Dondurma
Turkish ice cream (Maraş) is thick and chewy. Traditional Maraş is made from goat milk and wild orchid root and served sliced. More common flavors include pistachio and Bal Badem (honey almond) or kavun (melon). Ice cream vendors tease customers with a playful display while dishing up a cone. Leave a tip!
Baklava
This light dessert pastry sometimes has more than 20 layers of delicate pastry with pistachio or walnut filling and dripping with sweet syrup. Cut the sweetness with hot tea, or a thick Turkish coffee.
Turkish Coffee
Typically sipped after a good meal, the thick, almost pudding-like, hot drink is brewed to bubbling inside a Cezve placed in a pile of hot sand. For unsweetened, order your coffe sadé. Often served with lukum.
Lukum
The original Turkish Delight is a small and gooey sweet flavored with rose, pistachio, lemon, or mint—dusted in light sugar. Try a whole variety in any of the Willy Wonka-like confectionary shops in Beyoglu.
Turkish Bath Like a Local
A popular pastime for relaxing and unwinding, the Turkish Bath (or hammam) dates back to the Roman period. Wrapped in a lightweight cotton peshtemal, expect a long slow steam, vigorous scrubbing, and having your back massaged into jelly. The ritual ends in a thick bathrobe with a towel around the head, sipping Çay (tea) and nibbling lukum and baklava. For historic ambience, visit Cagaloglu or the very fancy and newly-restored Hurrem Sultan Hammam.
Insider’s Tips
Be Strategic
Even with the lightest traffic, a drive across Istanbul can take more than two hours. Plan your visit strategically, focusing on one area at a time.
Take the Ferry
Public transit is so easy and wide-reaching, it’s a shame not to give it a go. Rub shoulders with thousands of commuters that pass from one continent to another every day.
Leave Time for the Airport
Istanbul Airport (IST) is the largest private airport in the world—and a destination in its own right. For travelers flying Turkish Airlines, the journey begins before boarding. The award-winning Business Class experience includes lie-flat seats, direct aisle access, personal amenities, and gourmet dining designed by Turkish DO&CO chefs. Travelers can enjoy flexible meal service, inflight entertainment, and thoughtful touches like Lanvin amenity kits and sleep sets on long-haul flights. On the ground, the Turkish Airlines International Lounge offers a calm retreat with shower facilities, relaxation rooms, children’s areas, and a variety of hot dishes and chef-prepared specialties. Whether freshening up, savoring Turkish and international cuisine, or simply relaxing with a coffee, the lounge transforms the layover into part of the journey.
Build in extra time to explore this world-class airport, shop for last-minute souvenirs, and enjoy a seamless transition into (or out of) your Istanbul adventure.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and Fall offer the most optimal weather and outside exploring. March to May is beautiful, while September and October are still warm and less crowded. Summer can be sweltering and winters more overcast and wet. The city takes on a new life during Ramadan, with outdoor family feasting after sunset.
Common Misconception
Istanbul is a great place to kill any stereotypes about the Islamic world. Yes, Türkiye is a proud Muslim country with a strong religious tradition. Istanbul is also a future-facing metropolis with a nonstop energy that flows from its huge and diverse population. Keep an open mind and make new friends. The Turks are famously hospitable.
Culture & Etiquette Tip
Though anything goes in Istanbul, women may engage different reactions based on their dress. Women must cover their heads inside any mosques, so bring along a big scarf of light loose material—otherwise one will be provided on entry. Above all, show respect. These are sacred places where believers come to pray.
Non-Muslims are welcome at some mosques but must only visit outside prayer times. Remove your shoes and leave them at the doorway. Remember that this is a sacred place of worship, and that there are separate areas for men and women and those should be respected.
The adhan, or call to prayer, is chanted five to six times a day.
Be aware that during Ramadan, many people will be abstaining from any food or drink during daylight hours. A courteous greeting is Ramazan Mübarek or Ramazan kerim.
Beyond Istanbul
If you want to break free from the big city, then a day tour to Ephesus lands you in the ancient forum where St. Paul introduced Christianity to the Roman Empire. Explore other early Christian sites on a trip to Cappadoccia with its sandcastle-like fairy chimneys and cave churches where monks survived outside invasions by hiding out underground.
How Europe Express Can Help
Europe Express makes it easy to experience the best of Istanbul with:
- Custom itineraries designed for every travel style
- Exclusive hotel options, from boutique stays to historic landmarks
- Self-drive packages and car rental assistance
- Expert-led tours, tastings, and cultural experiences
- 24/7 support for a stress-free journey
With the logistics handled, travelers are free to sip, stroll, and savor everything Istanbul—and Türkiye—has to offer.
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