Holidays are something people look forward to whether they are a stay-cation or a chance to visit an exotic destination. But when that destination is new to you, there is more than just excitement involved. You want to be sure you plan your holiday wisely, travelling at the ideal time of year and seeing all the top sights and attractions. For those planning their first visit to Istanbul, the big question is how to see and do it all. It’s all about prioritising. Here are five things first–time visitors need to see and do in Istanbul.
Make Sure All Your Travel Documents are Complete
Before you can get too excited about your upcoming trip to Istanbul, you need to be sure your travel documents are complete. You can read more about the Turkish eVisa, which you can apply for online, along with other pertinent information. It’s all part of being an informed tourist who is well-prepared for international travel.
Visit Turkey’s Most Famous Market – The Grand Bazaar
A visit to Istanbul simply isn’t complete without a visit to the country’s most famous market – the Grand Bazaar. It’s the oldest bazaar in the world and one of the biggest, covering 30,700 square meters.
The market itself is covered and made up of 64 streets and tiny alleyways. Along with the 4,000 shops, there are also cafes, a post office, a police station, banks and a mosque. It’s truly a spectacular sight to take in. It is particularly known for its authentic jewellery and textiles.
The Blue Mosque Will Leave You in Awe
The Blue Mosque simply can’t be missed, as this building is not just massive and impressive from the outside but expect the interior to leave you in awe too. It gets its name thanks to the blue tile that is used in the interior, making it unique and beautiful.
Its proper name is the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and it is part of the Ottoman era. Construction was completed in 1616 with standout features such as a large dome and eight smaller ones, 260 stained glass windows, six minarets, and more than 20,000 handmade tiles. It is alsonamed a UNESCO Historic Area of Istanbul.
Enjoy the Nightlife in Taksim
If you still have energy after a busy day of sightseeing, be sure to head to Taksim which is a high-end neighbourhood in Istanbul. You’ll find a wide array of cocktail bars popular with locals so you can bet it will be lively and entertaining. It’s a great way to feel like you’re part of the city.
Visit Authentic Turkish Restaurants
While not exactly sightseeing, you’ll want to be sure you get away from the typical tourist traps when it comes to dining and visiting some authentic Turkish restaurants.
No Regrets Booking Advice
You can speak to your hotel’s front desk or concierge and ask for a recommendation of restaurants that are popular with locals. This will give you a true taste of the cuisine and the ambience.
Adding all of these sights and activities to your must-see list will ensure your first trip to Istanbul is a memorable one.