This summer my family and I planned a trip to Istanbul, the historical, cultural city of Turkey that sits in the middle of Europe and Asia divided by the Bosporus Strait. The city has been a popular holiday destination for a lot of people this year and I don’t see why it wouldn’t be.
Istanbul, is a cultural hub that has a lot of appeal from people of all nationalities. The reason why it’s such a popular choice for a holiday destination for us Pakistanis is the fact that it is only a direct flight away for most people, boasts the features of both a European destination holiday and the perks of being an Islamic country (halal food, yay). Istanbul offers a diverse tourist experience as it has a deep history of serving as a capital for three empires; Eastern Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. From scenic sights, to historical palaces and museums, incredible cuisine to religious sites, Istanbul seems to have it all, which gives all the more reason to make it your next holiday destination. Since I fell in love with Istanbul this summer, I feel compelled to share with you my experiences of the beautiful city and some of the must-visit places and experiences I would recommend.
- Sultan Ahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque)
One of the most famous historical sites of Istanbul, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque is a prime example of classical Ottoman architecture. It sits in the Fatih district in its architectural glory with six minarets towering from it’s five main domes. The grandeur of its exterior is complimented by the lavish interior of the mosque which is still functional as visitors visit to offer prayers on the red carpeted floor under the chandelier lit domes.
- Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya in Turkish) is a magnificent building that has a very interesting history behind it.
Located opposite to the Sultan Ahmet Mosque, the Hagia Sophia is visited by many. Built initially as the largest church by the Eastern Roman Empire in Istanbul, it has been constructed three times in the same location as it underwent many destructions on the hands of fires, riots, demolitions or other natural disasters. With the fall of Constantinople, this Greek Orthodox Church and cathedral then turned into an imperial mosque under the Ottoman Empire. It was then under Mustafa Kemal Ataturk that it was converted into the museum which functions till this day.
- Golden Horn
The Golden Horn is an inlet of the Bosphorus that separates the old and new parts of Istanbul. Easily accessible by the metro, the Golden
Horn offers a unique experience for tourists. Evenings at the Golden Horn are beautiful as people come out towards the shores to fish, enjoy the sun setting and the beautiful views of the mosques, buildings including the Galata Tower. The restaurants under the bridges offer a wide variety of fresh seafood while there are many small snack bars and stalls around that area selling corn, sweet potatoes and fresh juices.
- Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace, that once housed the Ottoman royals in the fifteenth century is now a museum home to many historical artifacts. It is infact one of the largest and oldest palace in the world that has survived to this day. The Palace also offers a beautiful view of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.
- Dolmabahce Palace
The Dolmabace is a slighter more modern palace which has a European charm to it. It is located on the European coast of the Bosphorus. The palace is a grand sight, from the intricate detailing in the interior with its furniture, tapestries and paintings to the magnificent exterior. This palace is a must visit for all art and history enthusiasts.
- Grand Bazaar
One of the oldest and largest covered markets of the world, a trip to Istanbul would be incomplete without shopping at the great Grand
Bazaar. The place is so historical that upon entering, one cannot help imagining the glory of it back in the 15th century when it was
- built. The marketplace is still functional to this day and is a hub for trade and consumers, businessmen and tourists alike flock to buy jewellery, lamps, clothes and shoes for reasonable prices.
7. The Spice Bazaar
The Spice Bazaar or the Egyptian Bazaar is similar to the Grand Bazaar but is famous for its Egyptian history links. The Bazaar is located in Eminonu, Fatih and is famous for selling spices, tea, Turkish delight, jewellery, souvenirs and lamps.
Although these are just a few of the highlights of Istanbul, there are countless more experiences that one can enjoy in their stay in this beautiful city.