Advice

We'd like to take a moment to briefly introduce you to other parts of Istanbul that we weren't able to squeeze into our itinerary. With a population of over ten million, Istanbul is one of the world's great megalopolises. It covers an area of almost 5,000 square meters. So, as you can imagine, there's a lot to do, see and experience! This tour solely focused on the historic center, but there are many other neighborhoods that are well worth a visit! Starting with Taksim. This lively, modern district is best known for its namesake square and Istiklal Avenue, the busiest pedestrian street in Turkey! Here, you'll find cafés, restaurants and boutiques by the hundreds – it's a feast for the senses! Next, there's Galata. This artsy district, overlooked by the Galata Tower, is another of the city's must-sees. Here, you'll find the city's signature narrow streets, lined with art galleries and artists' boutiques. It's also the expat quarter, ideal for a stroll and an evening drink. But beware, prices are higher than elsewhere. Right next to Galata is the trendy port district of Karakoy, perfect for an evening out. You can also visit the popular and cosmopolitan Balat district. Istanbul's former Jewish quarter has been home to Greeks, Armenians and Muslims. Its pretty cobbled streets and colorful wooden houses, nestled along the Golden Horn, offer a glimpse into Istanbul's architectural heritage. Having been recently restored, it may well be Istanbul's most beautiful neighborhood. To get a taste of the city's youthful spirit, head for Beşiktaş, right on the banks of the Bosporus on the European side. Here, you can stroll through the open-air market, eat delicious fresh fish or enjoy an evening beer. This is also where you'll find the Beşiktaş football stadium and the mythical Dolmabahçe Palace overlooking the water. Right after Beşiktaş is the Ortaköy district. Here, you'll find the famous Buyuk Mecidiye mosque and lots of cozy cafés and restaurants. You can also explore Bomonti. Many young working people have settled here to enjoy the calm, convivial neighborhood life. Here, the bars are very laid-back. You'll also come across Bomontiada, the arts and culture center housed in a former beer factory. Every evening, hundreds of people flock here to have a drink, grab a bite to eat or listen to their favorite artist perform at Babylon, the legendary music venue. A little further afield, you'll find the Princes' Islands. They're definitely worth the detour for their enchanting natural beauty. Nestled at the heart of the Marmara Sea, along the pier on the Asian side, they can be reached by boat. Don't miss the much renowned seafood restaurants while you're there. Last but not least, you can climb to the top of Çamlıca Hill for a panoramic view of Istanbul. It's Istanbul's highest hill, rising to 268 meters on the Asian side of the city. As you can see, there's more to Istanbul than meets the eye – it's a city that begs to be explored. Two final tips before you set off to explore it for yourself! Don't miss out on the city's rooftop terraces, each more beautiful than the last! Here, you can sip a cup of tea with a breathtaking view of the domes and minarets, and hundreds of birds soaring above. It's an unforgettable experience, and the photos won't disappoint. You can also unwind all while enjoying the sights from the water on a Bosporus cruise. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see the city in a new light, and admire the Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi palaces, and even the Maiden's Tower. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a few dolphins. Well, with all this, you've got plenty of things to do, if you feel like staying in the area for a while.