Istanbul is best known for its outstanding centuries-old architecture, yet this bustling city has launched itself into the modern age with a host of classy restaurants, chic bars and top-notch hotels to make it an appealing alternative to Europe’s less lively cities. Beyond Istanbul’s ageing mosques is an up-and-coming cosmopolitan cultural vibe that is hard to ignore.
History: having been inhabited since Neolithic times, Istanbul experienced its golden age in the Byzantine period, whose beginning is marked by Constantine’s designation of the city as capital of the Roman Empire in 330 AD. This also marked the Christianisation of the empire, with Byzantine period constructions such as Hagia Sofia still standing today as a reminder. The Ottomans rejuvenated the city in the 15th century with the Grand Bazaar and the conversion of the Hagia Sofia into a mosque, ruling from their splendid Topkapi Palace, a major attraction even today.
Sightseeing: Istanbul keeps sightseers on its toes with its many ancient monuments. The most dominating features of the cityscape are the Topkapi Palace, the house of Ottoman rulers for almost four centuries; the magnificent Hagia Sofia, a church that was converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in the 15th century; and the six-minaret Sultanahmet Mosque, otherwise known as the Blue Mosque for its pretty tiles. Roman remains like Basilica Cistern and the Hippodrome can also be explored.
Shopping: the Grand Bazaar helped rejuvenate a dying city back in the city’s early Ottoman days and today this veritable market hosts nearly 4,000 stores. Everything from Turkish carpets to brassware and textiles to leather goods can be found here, but don’t forget to bargain hard. If you haven’t had your fill, the Egyptian Spice Market is another colourful shopping spot worth your time. Modern malls and boutiques are found in Nisantasi and Beyoglu.
Eating and drinking: the city has a number of bustling areas where visitors can enjoy wining and dining, with Beyoglu, Ortakoy, Istiklal, Nisantasi and Aksaray being the most popular dining and entertainment districts. Istiklal Street is where you’ll find a cosmopolitan scene while Aksaray focuses on traditional Turkish nightlife. Tourists tend to congregate in Taksim but its worth checking out other parts of the city. If you just want a quick bite, don’t forget to try an authentic doner kebab, served 24 hours on street corners across the city.
Where to stay: the main accommodation centre on the European side of the city is Harbiye, with a number of quality hotels, apartments and hostels to choose from here. Taksim is nearby and has better entertainment and shopping as well as plenty of upscale as well as mid-range hotels. The city’s most luxurious options are congregated in Sultanahmet, close to the city’s most significant monuments. Hotels here often boast lovely Golden Horn views.
Getting there: Atatürk International Airport is the main gateway to Istanbul and rests 15 miles west of the city centre. The city’s metro system links the airport with the city centre. Alternatively, trains connect Istanbul with other European cities such as Athens.
Related posts: