| 7 mins read
"Istanbul is a magical seal which unites Europe and Asia since the ancient times. Without a doubt, Istanbul is certainly the most beautiful place of the world."
~ Gerard De Nerval
Connecting the two continents- Europe and Asia, Istanbul offers visitors the chance to experience the best of both worlds in a single city, displaying a great mix of Eastern and Western cultures. While the European side is home to the city's most iconic landmarks, such as the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia and the vibrant neighbourhood of Sultanahmet, the Asian side is the perfect haven to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Read the blog to know tourHQ's top picks to ensure you do not miss out on the best experiences on both sides of Istanbul.
THE MAGICAL CHARMS ON THE EUROPEAN SIDE
Hagia Sophia- Trace the Dramatic Trajectory
Also known as Ayasofya, Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, art, or architecture. Originally built as a church in the 6th century, the building has had the most dramatic journey! It was converted from a church into a mosque before being transformed into a museum in 1935. And in between, it was used as a weapons depot during the Ottoman period and a military hospital during World War I.
Do you know?
When the Ottoman Empire converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque, many Christian mosaics were covered with plaster or painted over to conform to Islamic law as it prohibits the depiction of human figures. However, when the mosque was transformed into a museum in 1935, many mosaics were uncovered and restored, revealing their stunning beauty again. These mosaics today stand as a testament to the building's rich history as a center of Christian and Islamic worship.
Galata Tower- Capture the Istanbul Skyline
Built in 1348 as part of the Genoese fortifications surrounding the Galata district, the Galata Tower is the perfect spot to have the best pictures with stunning views of Istanbul's skyline and the Bosphorus Strait.
Over the centuries, the tower has had many uses - it was used as an observation point for spotting fires in the city, a prison, a lighthouse, and even a science observatory. Today, visitors can climb to the tower's top and enjoy the city's panoramic views from the observation deck. The tower's interior also houses a restaurant and a museum that showcases the tower's history and the history of Istanbul.
What more? In addition to the tower itself, the Galata neighbourhood is also worth exploring with a local Istanbul guide. The area has trendy cafes, bars, restaurants, historic buildings, and landmarks.
Hodjapasha Cultural Center- Immerse in a Traditional Sufi Experience
Located in the historic Sirkeci neighbourhood, this cultural center offers a variety of shows that showcase traditional Turkish music, dance, and other performing arts. The center is housed in a beautifully restored 550-year-old Turkish bath, and it offers an intimate and authentic setting where visitors can even see a "Whirling Dervish Ceremony," a Sufi ritual that involves spinning to achieve spiritual enlightenment.
Do you know? Recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Whirling Dervish ceremony is considered a symbol of tolerance, love, and harmony performed for centuries to promote world peace. Watching it is generally viewed as a positive and respected experience.
Grand Bazaar- A Market Like None Other
One of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar is located at the heart of the old walled city on the western side of Istanbul. This historic marketplace is a maze of over 4,000 shops selling everything from Turkish rugs to aromatic spices, from bespoke jewellery to handmade ceramics. There is so much to explore that you can spend an entire day strolling through the market's colourful alleyways and haggling with vendors!
Something to remember!
While in Grand Bazaar, do not forget to try the historical street food of the stuffed mussels, called "midye dolma" in Turkish. For centuries, it's been enjoyed as a light lunch or a pre-dinner appetiser. You can try it at the historic 150-year-old stand called Hacı Dayı Midyeci, tucked away in the corner of the bazaar. To top it off, you can even take a classic food tour in the Grand Bazaar with a local Istanbul guide.
THE MAGICAL CHARMS ON THE ASIAN SIDE
Anatolian Fortress- A Beautiful Hidden Gem
One of the amazing highlights at the narrowest point of the Bosphorus Strait, the Anatolian Fortress, also known as the Anadolu Hisarı in Turkish, was built by the Ottoman Sultan Beyazıt I in 1395.
One fascinating fact about the fortress is that it was built in just four months by a team of over 1,000 workers. Sultan Beyazıt I had ordered the construction of the fortress in response to the threat of a Crusader invasion, and the fortress was completed in record time!
Want to make the most of it? Then visit the Anatolian Fortress via Bosphorus on a cruise. Many local cruise providers operate on the Bosphorus and stop at the fortress for a brief guided visit. This way, you will travel to history while taking in the most scenic view to exist in the world!
Sauadiye Beach- Relax. Refresh. Rejuvenate.
A hidden gem located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Suadiye is a picturesque beach that offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The water is calm and perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and for those interested in more active pursuits, there are also opportunities for paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.
The best part is, although secluded, the beach is conveniently located near other popular attractions, such as Kadikoy Market, Bagdat Avenue, and Fenerbahce Park. So you can even relax at the beach and then spend your evening exploring the local markets, strolling along the trendy shopping street of Bagdat Avenue, or taking a peaceful walk in Fenerbahce Park.
Kuzguncuk Neighbourhood- Live A Typical Turkish Experience
Whether you're interested in exploring the local cuisine, admiring the stunning architecture, or simply strolling through the picturesque streets, the neighbourhood of Kuzguncuk is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Istanbul.
One of the best ways to explore Kuzguncuk is on foot, and remember to visit the Kuzguncuk Synagogue, which dates back to the late 1800s and is one of the few remaining synagogues in Istanbul.
Interesting Fact! Home to a mix of Muslims, Christians, and Jews, Kuzguncuk has a long history of tolerance and coexistence. This is reflected in the diverse architecture of the neighbourhood, which features both Ottoman and European-style buildings.
Istanbul Toy Museum- A Wholesome Family-Friendly Attraction
If you seek an utterly off-beat experience, the Istanbul Toy Museum is your go-to place. The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 4,000 toys from around the world, ranging from antique dolls and tin soldiers to classic board games and modern action figures.
It is the brainchild of Turkish author and poet Sunay Akin, whose passion for collecting toys led him to create this museum! Now it is considered one of the world's most impressive collections of toys.
Best part! This toy museum is a great place for both adults and children. Adults can enjoy a nostalgic trip down memory lane, and for children, there are workshops and interactive exhibits, making it a fantastic family-friendly attraction.
In conclusion, Istanbul truly offers a unique and magical experience with its blend of Eastern and Western cultures spread across two continents. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for an adventure, Istanbul has it all!
“If the Earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital."
- Napoleon Bonaparte