Quick View | Istanbul
City Overview
Istanbul is a city where east truly meets west, spanning across both Europe and Asia. While not the capital, Istanbul is a hub city where history and culture collide with an active economy and booming tourism. The city is home to a wealth of roads that lead to centuries past, loads of restaurants, colorful shops filled with local treasures and the most ideal situation for coffee and tea lovers alike. 3-4 days gets you a feel for the city but we can easily imagine weeks getting lost in the grand bazaar, sipping on coffee and taking it all in.
The Basics
Language: Turkish (English widely spoken)
Currency: Turkish Lira ($1USD - 5.75TRY)
When to Visit: High season April-Sept, Low season Oct-Mar
Travel: Istanbul Airport
Getting Around: Public transit is amazing in Istanbul. Get your self an Istanbul Kart to load up for trams, metro and busses and you are set!
Top 7 Things to Do
1. Visit the Hagia Sophia Museum and Blue Mosque
2. Get lost in the grand bazaar
3. Take a bosphorus night cruise
4. Get a sales pitch in a rug shop
5. Stroll through the colorful Balat neighborhood
6. Watch sunset from a rooftop lounge
7. Stock up at the Egyptian spice bazaar
Where to Stay (neighborhoods)
Sultanahmet: close range to the major sites on your bucket list. Bustling with local businesses and restaurants, there is no shortage of activity in this area!
Galata: area overlooking the entire city, surrounded by tons of cute cafes for breakfast to start your day.
Balat: easily one of the most colorful and vibrant areas to wake up. Cat lovers rejoice! Accommodation is limited.
Don’t Miss
Green Corner Cafe for Hookah
Kubbe Rooftop for tea and a view
Galata Tower from the top (opens at 9am with line forming around 8:30am. cash only!!)
Topkapi Palace Museum
Mezes at Kasa Rooftop at the House Hotel
