Istanbul trips and vacations

On your vacation to Istanbul, you can step foot on two continents, Europe and Asia. Intersecting the city is the Bosphorus Strait, a massive waterway separating the two. The European side is busier and a historic center of trade, while the Asian side is greener and more residential. To hit both on one ride, take a bus or taxi over the Bosphorus Bridge. 

Originating in the Ottoman Empire, Turkish coffee is thick, strong and an important daily ritual for locals. Why not make it part of your vacation in Istanbul too? All Turks have their favorite coffee spots. One Istanbul stalwart is Fazil Bey’s Turkish Coffee in Kadikoy Bazaar.

Watching whirling dervishes perform the mystical Sufi ceremony of Sema is a special sight every traveler should witness. You can catch their rhythmic, spinning dances—which date back to the 13th century—at different locations across the city. But look out for regular performances at the Hodjapasha Dance Theatre, housed in a converted 15th-century Turkish bath.  

Istanbul’s historical center, Fatih is home to an abundance of world-famous attractions, including Sultanahmet (the former throne of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires) and the Grand Bazaar. There are lesser known points of interest worth exploring, such as the locally loved Wednesday market in Carsamba. And the neighborhood is packed with traditional eateries serving kebabs, ‘lahmacun’ (mincemeat-topped flatbread) and other local staples.

Good for: History, shopping, traditional food

Lively and cosmopolitan, Beyoglu brings together cultural attractions, innovative restaurants and an artsy vibe. As well as the Galata Tower, Taksim Square and the shop-filled Istiklal Street, Beyoglu is also home to a spirited nightlife scene in Cukurcuma. If you’re a foodie wondering where to stay in Istanbul, the restaurants here serve Turkish favorites and splurge-worthy haute cuisine, such as at the Scandi-Turkish eatery, Mikla.

Good for: Shopping, restaurants, nightlife

A classy neighborhood defined by cocktail bars, inviting shopping malls and a scattering of lesser known museums, Sisli has a sophisticated urban buzz. It’s considered one of the best areas to stay in Istanbul as it’s also home to Ihlamur Kasri, a stately palace with tranquil gardens. A choice of fine dining restaurants and cafes offer foodie experiences, while art galleries add a touch of culture.

Good for: Restaurants, shopping, culture

Families visiting Istanbul have endless options for excitement and relaxation. Miniaturk open-air museum captures sights from across Turkey, and a walk across the thrumming Galata Bridge is an adventure for everyone. There are many child-friendly museums in Istanbul, but the Rahmi M. Koc Museum stands out, with real aeroplanes, buses and even a submarine to explore.

A city where traders have converged for centuries, the shopping in Istanbul brings together influences from across the world. The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest covered markets on the globe – it’s absolutely huge and sells anything and everything. Elsewhere in the city, there are one-off boutiques and artisans selling original creative pieces. Head to the arty Cukurcuma neighborhood for antiques and vintage clothes.

Culture and history define Istanbul. Sultanahmet is home to some of the best attractions like Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque. However, every neighborhood has cultural sites like these on a smaller scale. Take your pick of museums in Istanbul too. For an offbeat option, The Museum of Innocence is a real-life companion to the book by Orhan Pamuk.

The nightlife in Istanbul goes from low-key drinks accompanied by a ‘shisha’ (hookah), to party houses that carry on until morning. For clubs in Istanbul, Taksim is one of the liveliest parts of the city. For a quiet drink, find a cafe or bar by the Bosphorus. Remember that in the more traditional localities, alcohol is not served.

The city’s food scene runs the gamut from the latest and greatest trends to time-honored traditional fare. One of the best restaurants in Istanbul is Ulus 29, which comes complete with stunning views of the Bosphorus. For a tasty kebab, get in line behind the locals at Sehzade Cag Kebap, and for delectable baklava, Karakoy Gulluoglu is your place.

When it’s time to hit the beach in Istanbul, Florya Gunes Plaji is the city’s biggest, with golden sand and plenty of loungers. There are other beaches in the city, and many excellent ones nearby – make your way to Kilyos for a few other options.