Category: Istanbul
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Basilica Cistern – A Quick Guide Before Visiting (2024 Updated)
Immerse yourself in the mysterious allure of Istanbul’s Basilica Cistern, an ancient marvel hidden beneath the city’s bustling streets. Our guide introduces you to this awe-inspiring underground reservoir, its historical significance, and the fascinating sights you can expect to encounter. Brief History of Basilica Cistern The Basilica Cistern, known as “Yerebatan Sarnıcı” in Turkish, was…
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How to get Around in Istanbul
Getting around in Istanbul, the captivating city straddling Europe and Asia, can be an exciting part of your travel experience. The city boasts a vast and efficient public transportation system, a variety of taxi services, and diverse options for adventurous travelers. This article will guide you through your journey around Istanbul, exploring the best methods…
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Spice Bazaar – A Quick Guide Before You Visit
The Spice Bazaar, also known as Mısır Çarşısı or the Egyptian Bazaar, was named so because spices were historically imported from Egypt to the Ottomans. Upon entering the bazaar, you will immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of the East, characterized by its exquisite Oriental architecture and an array of spice aromas, colors, and fragrances.…
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Istiklal Street – From Breakfast to Nightlife!
Istiklal Avenue (aka Istiklal Street) with its old name ‘Pera’ is the most crowded shopping street in Istanbul with daily 3 million shoppers and tourists. In this straight and long street, starting from Taksim metro station, towards Galata Tower and Şişhane metro, there are hundreds of shops, cafes, restaurants, churches, mosques, synagogues, embassies, culture centers,…
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Is Istanbul Safe to Travel in 2024?
Planning a trip to Istanbul? Learn about safety precautions to ensure a smooth and worry-free vacation. From avoiding scams to emergency numbers, we’ve got you covered.
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Balat Istanbul – How to Spend a Day in 2024
Balat Istanbul, offers a unique blend of old and new, making it a must-visit destination for everyone’s Istanbul itinerary. This charming and vibrant area is known for its colorful streets, rich cultural heritage, lively art and food scene, and picturesque alleys In this article, we will explore the best things to do in Balat, focusing on…
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Besiktas – What You Need to Know
A high-spirited ancient neighborhood, located on the shore of “Bosphorus” and surrounded by a hazy maze of small streets. It’s the center of fish markets, local shops, laid-back bars, and restaurants. Home to sumptuous 19th-century “Dolmabahçe Palace” and the Maritime Museum (Deniz Müzesi) overlook the “Bosphorus”. Besides the Ottoman-era architecture, parks, and galleries, this area…
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10 Awesome Reasons to Visit Istanbul (From a Local)
The reasons to visit Istanbul are manifold. It’s a vibrant city where history and modernity coexist, marked by iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The city’s rich cultural heritage, the allure of its bustling bazaars, and the hospitality of its people are truly captivating, making Istanbul an unforgettable destination. A couple…
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Topkapi Palace – A Quick Guide + 10 Things to See (Updated 2024)
Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, spanning over 700,000 square meters, is a distinctive imperial palace in Istanbul that grew organically with each new Sultan adding new buildings over a span of 400 years. Like a small city within a city, it housed more than 6000 residents and served as the seat of power for 25 Sultans.…
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The Blue Mosque: Istanbul’s Jewel of Ottoman Architecture
A striking symbol of Istanbul’s rich cultural history, the Blue Mosque, formally known as Sultanahmet Camii, stands as one of the world’s most impressive architectural masterpieces. This guide provides you with a comprehensive overview of the Blue Mosque, revealing its historical background, architectural grandeur, visiting details, and insider tips. It also points you to nearby…