Things to keep in mind before planning a trip to Istanbul
If you're going to visit the largest city in Turkey we recommend five experiences you should not miss to make your trip unforgettable.
From Europe to Asia in 20 minutes
The first thing to know about Istanbul is that it is located between two seas (the Black and Aegean) and divided by the Bosphorus Strait. The Strait also defines the two continents: Europe and Asia. The main tourist attractions are located in the European part, however you can catch a ferry and reach the Asian side in about 20 minutes. Cross from one continent to another poses no impediment and you can take a walk on the Asian continent.
Istanbul's Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is one of the largest in the world. It has more than 4,000 shops: jewelry stores, handicrafts, spices, housewares, rugs, clothing, antiques,… There you can buy the best souvenirs to take home. Remember that you can haggle but dont be cheap, always think to look for a fair price.
Mosques
The main mosques of Istanbul are St. Sophia and the Blue Mosque. You should not miss them. But there are many other smaller and less touristy mosques you'll love such as Eyüp, Tesvikiye, or Beyazit Laleli Mosque. Remember you are in a Muslim country and to respect their traditions is important whenever you travel. Follow their rules and you'll fit right in.
Eating kebab and more
Clearly, the kebab is Turkish food of excellence. Almost anywhere in the world you can find an establishment where you can taste this tasty dish. But the Turkish dont just live off Kebabs (although if you try a Kebab there it has nothing to do with fast-food Kebab that you can find here). In Istanbul you can taste the jewels of the Turkish cuisine: meze (hummus, falafel, dolma, olives or Tulum cheese among others), roast meats such as Kuzu Düğün Kizartmasi (roast lamb) or grilled fish such as Lüfer (Bosphorus fish). Also worth mentioning is the many varieties of tea and sweets manufactured from nuts like the Baklava (puff pastry with pistachios and syrup).
Take a Turkish bath
The Turkish baths are also known as Arabs or Hammam baths. Its a bathroom that serves to wash and to relax at the same time and it consists of four phases: the relaxation in a warm room, then you pass in to the a hot room. After, a swim in a cold pool and then relaxation in the cooling room. It can also be combined with therapeutic massages for different purposes. A spa day that will relax you after long days of touring the city.
One last tip
Remember that the legal currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira. If you are planning your trip, dont wait any longer and buy now your Turkish Liras that you´ll need at the best price on our website. This way you can prevent paying high prices at airports and not having to worry about looking for an exchange during your holiday. Relax and enjoy the city.
Can you think of any other essential experience?
