Istanbul has a long history as a bustling city at the centre of the world. Its unique location means that Istanbul actually straddles two continents, nestled on either side of the Bosphorus Strait that separates Asia and Europe. This duality is a theme we can see repeated throughout the metropolis, which is comprised of both ancient oriental-style architecture and soaring modern skyscrapers. Once called Constantinople and also Byzantium, Istanbul has been a city known across the world almost since the dawn of civilisation. An ancient city packed full of contemporary design, Istanbul is like no other place on Earth. Cleon Papadopoulos, a wealth manager for high net worth individuals and a lover of global travel, cites Istanbul as one of his favourite destinations. Having travelled extensively throughout his life, Cleon Papadopoulos is able to compare the delights of Istanbul with many other exotic and exciting locations, yet still comes back to the fascinating city time and time again.
Others thinking of travelling to Istanbul in the near future will find a list of useful contacts in the attached infographic, whilst the accompanying PDF gives a brief overview of some of the must-see sights in the region. This post will look at a few of the most popular tourist attractions, as well as ideas for activities off the beaten track recommended directly by Istanbul locals.
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Top Must-See Tourist Sights
Top Tips Endorsed by Locals
Topkapi Palace
Home to generations of Sultans and their harems of wives, the Topkapi Palace is a sight that no trip to Istanbul would be complete without. The oriental domes and soaring minarets enclose verdant courtyards and lushly tiled rooms and houses a Turkish bath as the centrepiece of the harem quarters. With a treasury that can easily rival our own Crown Jewels and spectacular views across the waters, Topkapi Palace is not a sight to be missed.
Aya Sofya and the Blue Mosque
A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the Aya Sofya was built in the sixth century for the Emperor Justinian. Initially a church, the structure would later become a mosque. Today the building essentially acts as a museum and boasts exhibitions including the tombs of ancient sultans and their sons, as well as extravagant glittering mosaic displays. Across the park is the famous Blue Mosque, one of only a handful in the world to feature six minarets. The name ‘Blue’ comes from the delicate blue tinge of the Iznik tiles.
Galata Tower
The Galata Tower was built in 1348 in what was then a sub-city under the control of the Genoese. Situated in what today is known as Beyoğlu in the modern quarters of old Istanbul, the Galata Tower boasts stunning views of the city which are accessible from the top peaks.
Bohemian Kadıköy
The Bohemian district of Kadıköy is relatively quiet and has a number of art studios to explore. The residents are mainly elderly Turkish folk who have lived in the area all their lives, offering a real sense of community amongst the attractive surroundings.
Ortaköy Square
Ortaköy Square is popular with both locals and tourists. Young Turkish locals gather to play card games and backgammon whilst smoking ‘nargile’ water pipes. The many elaborate waterfront restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs attract people from all over, many of whom come to sample the famous ‘kumpir’ or stuffed baked potatoes.
Istanbul Private Foodie Tour
For those who love nothing more than to sample the delights of the local cuisine when travelling, a private foodie tour is the ideal day out. You can indulge in the six-hour tasting tour which provides some of the best culinary specialities in Turkey from some of the better quality but lesser-known restaurants, food stalls, niche food stores, markets and cafes. Sample some unique and interesting cuisine off the beaten tourist track and discover where the locals eat.
Galatasaray Islet (Suada)
Galatasaray Islet, referred to by the locals as ‘Suada’, is a faction of the Galatasaray Sports Club. The unique selling point of the venue, which boasts an Olympic-sized sea-water swimming pool, is that visitors can swim between two continents. Suada is also famous for the fantastic views, great restaurants and lively evening parties.
These are just a few of the many attractions awaiting any Istanbul traveller. Whether you prefer exploring local architecture, museums, restaurants, the arts, parks or anything more, Istanbul is packed full of places and activities to see and do. Like Cleon Papadopoulos, once you have experienced the city, you may well find yourself returning again and again.
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