A quick trip to Istanbul on the way back from spending a winter season in Erzerum Ejder 3200 Palandöken ski area near Erzerum in the east of Turkey. I’d agreed to spend time with a friend and his family on the way back out of Turkey amounting to 36 hours in Istanbul.
I’d visited Istanbul many years previous in happier times while my Mother was still alive so was keen to go back and rekindle long lost memories. A word to the wise btw – Istanbul is massive – as is are its airports and, in particular, its bus station.
I could only spare an afternoon in the city centre as an onward bus to Sofia in Bulgaria awaited. Nonetheless, I took in most of the major sights – albeit on a very wet afternoon. Still, Istanbul did not disappoint. Definitely recommended for a visit to see the melting pot of two cultures where East meets West. Like all the greatest cities, this one’s made for walking to see the best areas.
You can find more about visiting attractions in Turkey in our summer guides and winter guides including the Antalya Museum, Fethiye and the world’s cheapest ski resort, Palandöken.
Book accommodation in Istanbul
Images of Istanbul
A Brief History of Istanbul
Istanbul, formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, boasts a history that spans over two millennia. Founded by the Greeks in the 7th century BC, the city grew into a flourishing center of trade, culture, and religion under the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Istanbul served as the capital of the Byzantine Empire for over a thousand years before becoming the seat of the Ottoman Sultanate in 1453, following the conquest led by Mehmed the Conqueror. Today, Istanbul stands as Turkey’s largest city and cultural capital, blending its rich heritage with modern influences.
The Importance of Istanbul Militarily and Ataturk’s Capital Change
Istanbul’s strategic location has made it a crucial military and economic hub throughout history. Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul has served as a gateway between the East and the West, facilitating trade and cultural exchange. The city’s prominent position along the Bosphorus Strait also made it a prized possession for empires seeking to control maritime trade routes.
Following the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of Turkey, initiated a series of reforms aimed at modernizing the country. As part of these reforms, Atatürk sought to shift the capital from Istanbul to Ankara, a central location within Anatolia. The move was intended to decentralize power and promote national unity, as Ankara was more easily accessible from different regions of Turkey. Read more about Atatürk’s Anitkabir.
Discovering Istanbul: Must-See Attractions
As mentioned above, Istanbul is a great city to stroll around – even in bad weather – and walking will let you see much more than taking pub transport. Below are just a few of the main sights, most of which are very close to each other.
- Hagia Sophia: Marvel at the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former Byzantine church turned Ottoman mosque turned museum. Explore its stunning architecture, intricate mosaics, and centuries of history. Admission costs 100 Turkish Lira (approximately €10).
- Topkapi Palace: Step into the opulent world of the Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace, a sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens, and royal chambers. Visit the Imperial Harem, the Treasury, and the Sacred Relics Collection. Entrance fees start at 100 Turkish Lira (approximately €10).
- Blue Mosque: Admire the iconic Blue Mosque, known for its distinctive blue tiles and six minarets that punctuate Istanbul’s skyline. Take off your shoes and step inside to marvel at the intricate calligraphy and stained glass windows. Entrance is free, but donations are welcome.
- Grand Bazaar: Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Browse through thousands of shops selling carpets, ceramics, jewellery, spices, and more. Prices vary depending on the item and your bargaining skills.
- Bosphorus Cruise: Take a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait and admire Istanbul’s skyline from the water. Choose from a variety of boat tours, ranging from short cruises to full-day excursions. Prices start at around 20 Turkish Lira (approximately €2) for a one-hour ferry ride.
- Galata Tower: Enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul from the top of the historic Galata Tower, which dates back to the 14th century. Climb the narrow spiral staircase to the observation deck and capture stunning photos of the cityscape below. Admission costs 25 Turkish Lira (approximately €2.50).
- Kisirkaya Koyu Plaji: Relax and unwind on the picturesque shores of Kisirkaya Koyu Plaji, a hidden gem located on the Asian side of Istanbul. Soak up the sun, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy a picnic with friends and family. Entrance to the beach is free.
Travelling to Istanbul
Travelling to Istanbul is easy as the city is served by two major airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. Both airports offer domestic and international flights, with various airlines operating routes to Istanbul from major cities around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi, airport shuttle, or public transport to reach your accommodation in the city center.
Additionally, Istanbul is well-connected by train, bus, and ferry services, providing easy access to neighbouring cities and regions. Whether you arrive by air, land, or sea, Istanbul welcomes visitors with its warm hospitality and endless possibilities for exploration.
