7 Things to Do in Amazing Istanbul
An active city where culture can be found in abundance, Istanbul is definitely an amazing destination for those backpackers looking for a bit of everything. But they will not be treated with bits rather loads of all they can possibly think of. A perfect mix of Middle Eastern mysticism with a touch of European flair, I was a lucky Londoner to have booked my flight to Istanbul in advance.
I must have visited Istanbul, the most populous city in Turkey, historically known as Constantinople and Byzantium, a couple of times but every time I visited, I found myself at a loss for words for I could not express what I felt. With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, it’s easy to see why travelers from all over compare flights to Istanbul.
There’s a lot you can do in appealing Istanbul, so make sure you’re loaded with time in order to make the most of what you’ve been planning for long.
I really had a great time doing all those things in my ‘to do’ list but I share with you 15 things which you must do for an unforgettable Turkish adventure.
Visit the Spice Bazaar - Being the second largest marker after the Grand Bazaar, it’s time you spoil yourself for choice picking up dried fruits, Turkish coffee, loose leaf tea, spices and not to mention Turkish delight.
Be a part of spinning dervish show - Turkey’s home to the Mevlevi Order of Sufi spinning dervishes. The dervishes spin themselves only to merge with the God. Moreover, it’s a unique sacred ceremony to be an observer of.
Listen to the call of prayer between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia - It’s time you soothe your inner self by lending all ears to the most beautiful call of prayer taking place between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. A muezzin would sing a part of the prayer and the other would charm your soul deep inside responding from the other minaret. Such a magical thing I’d experienced, so I’d suggest you to grab your seat at the park bench and keep listening.
Enjoy a kumpir - While on your holiday in this great Turkish city, you cannot afford to miss a kumpir, a loaded baked potato. Take your taste buds on an exciting food tour as the server mixes the potato with cheese and butter. Choose from a wide choice of toppings such as olives, corn, peas, pickles etc.
Overcome your shyness at a hamam - Willing to shed your inhibitions? Make way to the hamam, and for that amazing experience, you will want to go for the body scrub and massage. Simply refreshing for your body, mind and soul.
Walk across Galata Bridge - You can ride the light rail across, if you so desire but if you want to walk, you would get to witness the locals enjoying fishing from the bridge, the vendors working their ways out in selling sesame covered pretzels and the boats with passengers down the Bosphorus.
Take a boat tour down the Bosphorus - Have only a few days and would not be able to cover every main attraction? Take a cruise down the Bosphorus to take a glance at major points of interest in the city.
The city of Istanbul has been boasting of its unique blend of history and culture, with historic palaces, grand mosques and traditional bazaars. So don’t forget to book your cheap flights to Istanbul in advance.