Istanbul Travel Guide

Built on the ruins of a former Byzantine palace, the Topkapi Palace was originally a residency for members of the Ottoman Empire. Numerous sultans resided in the palace rooms, but the palace was finally abandoned by Sultan Abdülmecid, when it fell into disuse. It later became a military museum, and today the palace is home to a breathtaking museum, concert hall, hospital, armory, restaurant, bakery, and mint! The museum features items from sultans throughout the ages and other artifacts of cultural significance to the city.  « hide

What used to be a major trading post and residential area hundreds of years ago is now a major attraction known as the Golden Horn. This shoreline area is just as beautiful as the name implies, with architecture ranging from Armenian to Greek. Located here is the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, a famous mosque which has seen countless Muslim pilgrimages throughout the ages, as well as several Greek Orthodox churches. A vibrant and refreshing area not too far from Istanbul proper.  « hide

Although this is really more of a district than anything else, there is simply too much in Sultanahmet to cover each in detail. That said, this is yet another area that you simply cannot miss on any trip to Istanbul, no matter the duration. This is the section with the most important buildings of the Old City, kept intact from the after the Roman period, though even back then the area was designated for palaces and imperial structures. Among the highlights of Sultahnamet are the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace (outlined in the next section of this guide), along with the Hippodrome, where an arena hosted many a chariot race, the Built Pillar, a historical column covered in bronze made from coins melted down during the Latin invasion, and the Obelisk, brought from Egypt in 390 A.D.  « hide

Another famous aspect of Turkish culture is the Turkish bath. Adorned with marble floors, warm saunas, and beautiful decorations that come standard with a Turkish bath, these relaxing attractions come in many shapes and sizes. One such bath is the Classic Turkish Bath, where one can experience all the varieties of the bath: skin massages, sweat rooms, and hot tubs, all heated to different temperatures. Let the trained staff massage your skin using a roul silk cloth, known as a kese in Turkish. Email: rusen@cemberlitashamami.com.tr.  « hide

The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul: one of the most famous marketplaces on the planet. A series of both indoor and outdoor streets, the bazaar is full of exotic foods, trinkets, and spices from different vendors around the region. No other place will you find sheep’s brains (still in their skulls!) and ornamental rugs lined up right next to each other! At about 31,000 square meters, this giant shopping mall has everything, and is not Westernized like most places in the world. Destroyed and rebuilt multiple times through its long existence, the Grand Bazaar has a rich and significant history.  « hide

Built to hold over six-hundred partiers, Indigo is always packed with an eclectic music-loving crowd, but with a twist: the plasma screens and projections, along with different forms of visual and auditory artwork and technology-based music, creates a wonderful symphony to indulge the eyes and ears. And the best part is, the technology used in the music is not ridiculously loud! Email: info@livingindigo.com .  « hide

As with most pubs in this neck of the woods, Konak is small and cozy, with almost constant live music to add life to the ambiance while serving up great domestic and imported beverages. Not open terribly late, Konak is a chilled-out place for a start of a crazy night or a quiet evening for some social drinking. Emails: konak@hotelkonak.com.  « hide

A great place appropriately named for its quaint setting, Cozy Pub offers great nighttime views of attractions like the Blue Mosque and Sultan’s Palace. Close to several hot spots of town like the Grand Bazaar and Hippodrome, this is a popular spot which serves drinks as well as food. A classy joint at reasonable prices! Email: cozypub@superonline.com.  « hide

Riddim is the epitome of diversity. With three floors, this club has everything, and if you’re not sure just what kind of night you plan on having, you can take your pick without ever having to walk outside! On the top floor, unique musical performances are lined up every day and night, with a great view of the river from the terrace. On the middle floor there are concert halls with all kinds of events, and the bottom floor is home to the standard R&B and hip-hop music, so put your dancing shoes on! Email: info@riddim.com.tr.  « hide

Looking more like the deck of a fancy ship than a club, Reina hosts fabulous restaurants, with samples of cuisines from Japan, China, Greece, and Turkey, among others. Often graced by foreign and local celebrities from the sports, publishing, political, artistic, and entertainment industries, this Istanbul hot spot provides an elegant yet wild night of drinking and fun!  « hide