If this is your first time to Istanbul, you’ll be spending most of your time in this area of the city. Simply because it is home to most of the unmissable and famous sights. The historical peninsula of Istanbul is the area south of the Golden Horn and consists of boroughs such as Beyazıt, Eminönü, Fatih, Kumkapı, Sirkeci, Süleymaniye, Sultanahmet, and Tahtakale. Below you find … [Read more...]
The Golden Horn of Istanbul
The Golden Horn (Haliç) is an inlet of the Bosphorus with two rivers draining into it at the far end. It is considered to be the world’s largest natural harbor and separates the European shore of Istanbul into two. The best places to observe the Golden Horn’s activity and grace are the Galata Bridge if you want ringside seats, and the Topkapi Palace or Pierre Loti Café if you … [Read more...]
Entrance Fees of Istanbul’s Main Tourist Attractions
The entrance fees of Istanbul's main tourist attractions range from free to almost 100 TL per person. Often children can go in for free, but different sightseeing spots have difference age limits. The overview below also allows for an easy comparison to find out whether an Istanbul Museum pass is worth the investment or not based on your personal itinerary. Also, avoid standing … [Read more...]
Turkish Customs and Etiquette
Istanbul is a modern world city, like so many others. What makes it unique (except the vast amount of historical sightseeing spots) is the mix of Oriental and Western influences. Add a predominantly Muslim population to the mix, and you're all set to experience a variety of cultural differences. So, to make most of your stay -- and to prevent being rude or a fool -- familiarize … [Read more...]
Mosque Structure and What to Look for Inside the Mosque
When you visit Istanbul it is inevitable that you will hear the call for prayer five times a day. The minarets of the mosques all around the city are equipped with loudspeakers to invite and remind the community that it's time for prayer. During your stay you are also most likely to visit one or more mosques such as the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) or my personal favorite, … [Read more...]