48 hours in Istanbul – Weekend Edition
Istanbul In Less Than 48 Words
Known as Constantinople a few centuries back, Istanbul is described as the “Crossroads of Europe and Asia.” Though its history is as old as time—made evident by its museums, mosques and historic buildings—the city is a full-fledged metropolis with a swinging nightlife to boot.
The Sultanahment Camii or Blue Mosque, Turkey's national mosque. (Photo by brewbooks)
First 24 Hours
Touch down on the affable city of Istanbul via the Atatürk International Airport (www.ataturkairport.com; +90 212 465 5555), the city’s main hub for international arrivals. It is located in the city’s European side, some 24 kilometers west of the city center. From there, you can hop on a Havas bus which will shuttle you to Aksaray, near the city center. The journey takes around 20 minutes, after which you will have to switch to a tram to the old city. The ride will cost you around YTL8 (Turkey’s European Union status is still yet to be approved). Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi straight to the city center, which will set you back upwards of YTL25.
Istanbul is a city that has been built over time, hence it can be fairly difficult to navigate. The old city or Sultanahmet is where most of the historical sites and landmarks are located. Across the Galata Bridge is the new city, or Beyoglu, which is a place for happening activities. The third and final major district is Bosphorus, the Asian side of the city and perhaps the least touristic. There are generally two ways of travel to spell you on your trip, and that is walking and the trams (flat rate of YTL1.10).
CHECK IN: Restore your bearings
The interior of the White House Hotel's double room. (Photo from the White House Hotel website)
Once in the heart of the city, you can rest your tired mind and body at Istanbul’s excellent hotel and accommodations. White House Hotel Istanbul (Alemdar mahallesi Catalcesme sokak no:21|Sultanahmet ; www.istanbulwhitehouse.com; +90 212 526 00 19) is conveniently located at the city center’s clean area and has an attentive staff. Another hotel that boasts of excellent service is TomTom Suites (Bogazkesen Cad. Tomtom Kaptan Sok.|No.18 Beyoglu; www.tomtomsuites.com; +90 212 292 4949) which lives up to its five-star reputation.
For hotels that feature well-decorated interiors, Sirkeci Konak Hotel (Taya Hatun Sokak #5|Sirkeci, Istanbul 34120; www.sirkecikonak.com; +90 212 528 43 44) and Witt Istanbul Suites (Defterdar Yokusu No. 26|Cihanger, Beyoglu; www.wittistanbul.com; +90 21239379000) fit the bill, having spacious and complete amenities as well. Osmanhan Hotel (Akbiyik Caddesi Cetinkaya Sokak No 1|Sultanhamet; www.osmanhanhotel.com; +90 2124587702), on the other hand, affords a picturesque view of the city.
GALATA TOWER: Let’s take a view
Kick off your first day by heading to the Galata Tower (Büyük Hendek Sokak, Tüne)—one of the historic landmarks of the city. It dominates the Istanbul skyline, standing at a height of 250 feet. Its cone-capped cylinder structure is a sight to behold by its lonesome, but its highlight is the 360-degree view of the cityscape that it affords tourists who have climbed up its spiral staircase or taken a lift up to its viewing platform. The site is open daily between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. and admission will set you back YTL5.
The Galata Tower amidst Istanbul's city skyline. (Photo by galpay)
SULTAN AHMED MOSQUE: Go on a historical hike
Tourists usually head off to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Hippodrome, Sultanahmet) on the first day. Its charm lies on its six minaret and the blue tiles in its interior reflects blue light into its 250 windows – leading people to dub it as the “Blue Mosque.” It is a popular tourist attraction, and you would have a hard time not taking pictures of this impressive piece of architecture. Inside, you will find the lavish tomb of its builder, as well as a madrasah (school) and a hospice.
The nearby Spice Bazaar, one of the oldest of its kind in the city, is an L-shaped structure, where you can find 88 vaulted rooms, containing stalls selling anything from novelty items to market stuff, and of course, spices. The walkway leads to the Yeni Mosque (Eminönü district), also known as the New Mosque. Its 66 domes are arranged in a pyramidal fashion, while its interior boasts of İznik tile decorations.
Exterior of the Topkapi Palace, which once housed a harem and 3000 military personnel in the 16th century. (Photo by xiquinhosilva)
Not to be left out is the Topkapi Palace (Babihümayun Caddesi, Sultanahmet), which served as the official residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. It was once the home of around 3,000 military personnel, as well as the sultans’ harem during the 16th century. Inside, you will still be able to see its historical wealth of silk robes, Chinese ceramics, and jewels.
HAMMAM: Relax in a Turkish spa
After a grueling historical hike, what else to tired sore muscles that the world famous Turkish bath. Numerous hammams that are scattered all over the city; one of the best is Cemberlitas Hamam (Vezirhan Caddesi 8, 00 90 212 522 7974), which offers a four-century old Turkish bath. Treat your senses to a relaxing steam bath and massage, which cost around YTL25.
DINNER TIME: Feast for the senses
Conclude your first 24 hours in Istanbul by recharging at the superb restaurants all over the city. Amedros Café & Restaurants (Divanyolu Cad Hoce Rustem Sok No / 7|Sultanahmet; www.amedroscafe.com;+90 212 522 83 56) offers value-for-money dishes and a and a cozy ambience. Another reasonably priced affair is Kathisma Café Restaurant (AkbIyIk Street, No:26|Sultanahmet; www.alburakathisma.com;+90 212-5179031) which serves Turkish and international cuisine. For a beautiful view of the city and delicious Mediterranean dishes, head to Imbat Restaurant (Sirkeci Hudavendigar; www.imbatrestaurant.com; +90 212 520 71 61).
Excellent Turkish food is offered by Adonin Café & Restaurant (Divanyolu Caddesi Ticarethane sokak no:27/31|Sultanahmet; www.adonincafe.com;+90 212 51400290) and Istanbul Enjoyer (Incili Cavus Sok N 25 Sultanahmet; +94(212)5128759).
Next 24 Hours
Start off the next 24 hours with a ferry ride at the Asian side of the city, which is one of the few noteworthy touristy activities available in that part of Istanbul. Travel from the Bosphorus to the Haydarpasa stations, and enjoy the scenic views and magical ambience. For a mere YTL1, you will have the chance to travel from one continent to another (technically) in just a 20-minute journey.
KARACA AHMET: Take a stroll in the park
The Haghia Sophia's outstanding display of Byzantine architecture. (Photo by Alexandre Moreau)
After the ferry ride, you may choose to proceed to the Karaca Ahmet Cemetery, which you can reach after a short walk from the ferry station in Bosphorus. Covering a 750-acre area, it is the oldest cemetery in the city, with high-reaching cypress trees and extravagant monuments that make this part of Instanbul another worthy site to behold.
HAGIA SOPHIA: Learn more about the Istanbul history
After your lovely stroll in the park, it is high time to head to your next destination, the Hagia Sophia (Sultanahmet, in front of Topkapi Palace). Also known as Aya Sofya or the Church of Divine Wisdom, the site showcases an internationally-renowned example of Byzantine architecture. Once the largest cathedral in the world, it is particularly noted for its massive dome. Today, it also functions as a museum, where you can see a large collection of holy relics, especially a 15-meter silver iconostasis.
GRAND BAZAAR: Market like no other
For souvenirs, the Grand Bazaar (42 Sultanahmet 34010 Istanbul; www.grand-bazaar.com) offers plenty of choices. As one of the largest and oldest covered markets on the planet, it is visited by almost half a million shoppers daily. Take a pick among the more than 1,200 shops scattered throughout its 58 covered streets, where you can buy anything from leather coats to gold and jewelry. It is definitely one of the most exciting experiences in the city, with an opportunity to interact with locals and fellow tourists alike. Remember to haggle with the prices, and hold on to your valuables. The market opens daily between 8:30 am and 7 pm, except on Sundays.
Shoppers passing through the Grand Bazaar. (Photo by Allie Caulfield)
NIGHTLIFE: Time to go wild
Wrap up your second day with a bang by indulging in the many pleasures afforded by Istanbul’s bars and clubs. One of the most popular is Babylon (Seyhbender Sokak 3; www.babylon.com.tr; +90 212 292 7368) which plays music ranging from techno, world, to hip hop and and is known for its whiskey and beer selection. Reina (Muallim Naci Caddesi 10 Ortaköy; www.reina.com.tr; +30 212 259 5919), on the other hand, houses several dance floors, restaurants, and bars that can fit 2,500 people.
For an international flavor, party-goers head to 360Istanbul (311 Beyoğlu, Beyoğlu; www.360istanbul.com; +90 212 251 1042) which serves fusion food (Turkish with international cuisine) and offers fantastic city views at a sophisticated 19th century building location. Angelique (Muallim Naci Caddesi Salhane Sokak No:5 Ortaköy; www.istanbuldoors.com; 0090 212 3272844) is also at the top of the list with its great view of Bosphorus and its multi-level structure whose main area is for partying while its upper floors cater to relaxed dining activity.
Students and 30-something yuppies are drawn to Jazz Café (14 Hasnun Galip Sokak, Istiklal Caddesi; www.jazzcafeistanbul.com; +90 212 245 0516) which plays music ranging from funk/acid to jazz/blues.
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