When on the hunt for the next vacation in your itinerary, there is always somewhere in the Far East that should be explored. If you’re a westerner, travelling further East to get an overall appreciation of the different cultures and way of life is something we should all take time to make the most of. Istanbul, in Turkey, is one of those places that offer so many different attractions, not just for the experienced traveller, but obviously, the novice will benefit too. So, for the novice traveller, where are the best places to go in Istanbul?
Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam
If you’re looking for the best Turkish bath in Istanbul, you have many to choose from. But this one is finally open for visitors. As far as Turkish baths are concerned, it’s such a unique experience- this isn’t your typical spa package! While you gaze around the marble, close your eyes, and only hear the soothing stream of running water, you will slip into a state of relaxation that you’ve never felt before.
Süleymaniye Mosque
Of all the mosques in Istanbul, this one located on the Galata Bridge is a sight to truly behold. This is thought of as the finest of the 42 remaining mosques that the architect Sinan designed for Suleiman the Magnificent. Take the opportunity to marvel at the mosque taking up the majority of the beautiful Istanbul skyline from the Galata Bridge, but also take the time to eat some of the traditional Turkish delicacies such as kuru fasuliye. It’s a beautiful summing up of what Istanbul really looks like.
Topkapi Palace
To get a true idea of the rich and interesting history of Istanbul, the palace, that was home to generations of sultans their significant others, has to be seen. Arguably, it is the biggest priority when visiting Istanbul’s key tourist sights, because you can see the kiosks, the courtyards, as well as views of the sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn and truly get a grasp of the views in one picturesque place.
Aya Sofya
Once a mosque, this museum has to be experienced. You can visit the tombs of the early Ottoman sultans or you can just soak in the grandiosity of this Byzantine building. But “building” really isn’t the best word to associate with this masterpiece of architecture. Just go there, and you’ll find the right word.
Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum
If you are looking for some experience of the culture, this museum has so many different aspects to explore. From the sports to the carpets, you can find everything you want to learn about Turkey under one roof. And you can’t not try a traditional Turkish coffee in the museum’s cafe before leaving. One of the undisputed delicacies of Turkey, its coffee is flavoursome, but will also give you the caffeine hit you need to truly soak up the culture during your museum
visit.
For any novice traveller, Turkey can be overwhelming, but if you get yourself to Istanbul, there is enough for you to keep your foot in the past, but also enjoy the present pleasantries.