Istanbul is a lot more fascinating than you might think. Sure, this place is a perfect haven for history buffs and the like, but that doesn't mean that you can't enjoy the city if you're not one. Many people forget that there are a ton of things to do and see in the Turkish capital than just seeing the sites. Yes, the famous mosques, monuments, and the like are all wonderful and all, but they're only one side of what makes Istanbul great. The other? You'll have to spend at least a day in the city to find out!
Start With An Authentic Turkish Breakfast
Why not start your day in Istanbul with a delicious and authentic Turkish breakfast? As far as traditional foods go, there are many Turkish dishes that will really jolt you up so early in the morning. And since you're navigating such a busy city like Istanbul, you're gonna need all the nourishment you can get! Since Turkish cuisine is as much a Mediterranean menu as it is Middle Eastern, yogurt has a huge role to play no matter the meal. You'll also want some eggs, cheese, bread, and the like. For a really heavy breakfast, a nice plate of
pide (Turkish pizza) will work too!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Don't Miss The Hagia Sophia
Whether it's your first time in Istanbul, your second time, your tenth time, or even if you've relocated here, you can't forget the Hagia Sophia! Without a doubt, it's the most famous place of worship in all of Turkey. Arguably in all of the Mediterranean too! It's one of those world-renown sites, like
Paris' Eiffel Tower or London's Big Ben, where you can't really consider that you've 'been to Istanbul' if you haven't visited this place. With so many influences ranging from the Byzantine to the Ottoman empires, as well as its changing functions from church to mosque, 'historic' doesn't even begin to describe it!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Go Mosque-Hopping
Speaking of mosques, Istanbul is a treasure trove of them! And unlike in other Middle Eastern countries where they're stricter when it comes to who gets to go inside, the ones in the Turkish capital are open to all. As long as you remain respectful, of course! Among the many in the city, the Blue Mosque is definitely a must-visit! One of the most famous monuments in Istanbul, you've likely seen it a thousand times online, on social media, in magazines, and the like. Its distinct, almost lilac-like purplish-blue color scheme is one to marvel at!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Relax in The Turkish Baths
Rome and
Budapest aren't the only capital cities famous for their baths! Istanbul also has its famous Turkish baths, also referred to as the 'hammam.' And if you just want to spend your day relaxing, letting go, and freeing yourself from your troubles, there's nothing more suited for you to do! Although, unlike in the aforementioned cities, there aren't actually specific places to go to if you want to experience a Turkish bath. The city has a ton of spas, resorts, and the like throughout the
many districts of Istanbul that offer you this unique, Islamic bathing experience.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Shop At Kapalı Çarşı
The famous '
Kapalı Çarşı,' also known as the Grand Bazaar, is Istanbul's most famous open market! With over 4,000 shops on offer, it will take you more than a day to explore even half of what's in store here! It's such a unique place in that the fact that it's covered almost makes you feel like it's one big mall, but the way it's structured will remind you of the exotic souks in other Middle Eastern countries. And, of course, it offers up a ton of goodies you'll want to check out. From antiques and jewelry to traditional treats and more, get your wallets ready for the Grand Bazaar!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Stroll Along Istiklal Street
While
Paris has the Champs-Élysées and London as Barnaby street. Istanbul has Istiklal Street! A mostly pedestrian avenue—although public transport like the historic tramways also passes by here—it's one of the busiest parts of Istanbul. The street is lined with shops and boutiques, all full of great finds that you won't see anywhere else! And at night, it becomes the central nightlife hub in all of Beyoğlu. Since it is easy to get to via public transport and it's so busy no matter what time of day it is, Istiklal Street is undoubtedly one of the most popular areas in the European side of Istanbul!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Finally, when you have some extra time no matter what part of the day it is, you might want to stop for some Turkish coffee. You probably can't comprehend just how important this drink is for the Turkish people. It's not just some relaxing beverage to help wake them up in the morning to drink as a pastime. It's considered a national drink that's an important part of their culture. In fact, according to
the country's social customs, serving Turkish coffee is always part of any meal, be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
There's a lot more to Istanbul than you probably realize. From the outside, it looks like the Turkish capital is easy to understand and you'll already know what to expect. But in reality? You can spend an entire day here and still find something new!
After doing or all of these incredible things to do in Istanbul, ending your day in your
luxury home here would feel like heaven!
