Ortakoy is a vibrant neighborhood located in the Besiktas district on the European side of Istanbul. It's known for its charming streets, lively atmosphere, and stunning views of the Bosphorus. Spend some time exploring the streets, trying some local street food, and taking in the views. In the evening, head to Reina for a night of dancing and partying with the locals.
Istanbul is famous for its traditional Turkish bathhouses, or hammams. Head to the historic Cagaloglu Hamam for a relaxing and authentic experience followed by some shopping at the Grand Bazaar. The bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices to jewelry. Don't forget to haggle for the best prices!
Start your day off with a visit to the stunning Hagia Sophia, an iconic landmark of Istanbul that has served as both a church and a mosque over the centuries. Next, head to the nearby Topkapi Palace, once the residence of the Ottoman sultans, to learn more about the city's history and take in some amazing views of the Bosphorus.
Take a leisurely boat tour on the Bosphorus to take in the beautiful sights along the water. After the cruise, head to the bustling Taksim Square to experience Istanbul's vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, nightclubs and live music venues to choose from. Try some local raki (an aniseed-flavored liquor) and dance the night away!
Escape the city and head to the picturesque Princes' Islands, a small archipelago in the Sea of Marmara. There are nine islands to choose from, with Buyukada being the most popular. Rent a bike or a horse-drawn carriage to explore the island, take a dip in the sea, and enjoy some fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
Getting around Istanbul is easy with a variety of transportation options available, including taxis, public transportation, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem. The most convenient and cost-effective way to get around is by using the Istanbulkart, a rechargeable smart card that can be used on buses, subways, trams, and ferries. Taxis are also widely available, but make sure to agree on a price before starting your journey. Local transportation can add up to approximately 200-300 TRY.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to the historic city of Edirne or the charming town of Sile. If you have less time, consider skipping the Princes' Islands and spending an extra day exploring Istanbul. Don't forget to dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites, and bring comfortable shoes for walking on the city's steep and uneven streets.
Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is located on the European side of the city, approximately 40 km from the city center, and has direct flights to over 300 destinations worldwide. Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is located on the Asian side of the city, approximately 50 km from the city center, and serves mostly low-cost carriers and charter flights.