Istanbul is a city of contrasts, a pulsing, constantly evolving city that will thrill every kind of traveller. Architecture and sites that date back from the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires stand beside modern skyscrapers. Women clad in miniskirts stroll beside those in burkas, emphasizing Istanbul's precarious balance between the old and the new, the religious and the secular, and the east and the west. Even geographically, the city straddles two continents. Divided by the Bosphorus river, it's easily possible to travel from Europe to Asia for dinner!
If you only have a weekend in Istanbul, stay within Sultanahmet or the Old Stamboul area. Most historical sights can be found there, and there is so much to do that you will need at least two days to see it all. You can literally travel through the civilizations, starting off at the Roman hippodrome and the Yerebatan Cistern. Visit the huge, awe-inspiring Ayasofya, which was once the largest church in the world before it became a Mosque, and then a museum. Afterwards head over to the Blue Mosque, a symbolic part of Istanbul's skyline. Finally, spend an afternoon discovering the opulence of Topkapi Palace, home to the Ottoman sultans for centuries. Don't miss visiting the palace's Harem, where the sultan's wives and hundreds of concubines were housed.
One of the most incredible landmarks in Istanbul is the Grand Bazaar, which covers a vast area of over 65 streets and contains approximately 2,600 shops, innumerable teahouses, restaurants, and pesky salespeople. It is said that if you can't find something there, then it doesn't exist. You can spend hours getting lost in the whirlwind of the bazaar, finding unique treasures to bring home and brushing up on your bargaining skills. Then move on to the Egyptian spice bazaar, where your senses will be overwhelmed by the vibrant colours and strong fragrances of spices, dried fruits, nuts, herbs, and oil.
If you have more time in Istanbul, don't miss the Beyoglu area, Istanbul's modern half and the city's centre for art, music, and education. You can explore further by taking a boat trip down the stunningly beautiful Bosphorus strait. Finally, treat yourself to a hamam, or Turkish bath, where your troubles will be steamed and scrubbed away.
If you're loaded: Feel like royalty at the Çiragan Palace Hotel, home to the last Ottoman sultans. Located along the Bosphorus, you couldn't hope to find a more luxurious or decadent place to stay (with prices to match). Shop around the Bebek and Nisantasi areas, where you will find upscale Turkish boutiques as well as internationally renowned designers. Eat at 360, a restaurant with a stunning circular view of the city and a trendy, hip scene.
If you're frugal: If you are looking for a great hotel at a bargain price, look no further than Hotel Empress Zoe. Located in the heart of Sultanmahet, the rooms are charming and clean and the hotel offers an unparalleled view of the city from its rooftop terrace. Eat fresh fish in one of the many tiny restaurants along the Bosphorus, and try cheap Turkish delicacies from the many street vendors around the city. Shop in the Grand Bazaar, and don't forget to bargain for the best price!
2008 Woodie Awards
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askin
posted 10/07/08 @ 12:11 PM EST
Being a Turkish-Canadian author, originally from Istanbul and having lived in Montreal next to Mc Gill, I couldn't hold myself, but make a few additions to the above excellent article:
Another very inexpensive hotel is AS HOTEL, very near the Turkish Airlines City Terminal in Taksim (the last stop for the airport busses) - Just go down Istiklal Caddesi (Beyoglu) pass by the French Consulate, turn right in the second street. (Continued…)
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