YES, it is! The city of Istanbul is one of the most exciting places in the world where you can sit by the sea and enjoy the fantastic view of the blue ocean while an oyster vendor sells delicious oysters to you. You can walk through the streets and see people smile! There are many beautiful places to visit in the city, such as museums and historical sites. Turkey’s people are very friendly and welcoming to tourists from all over the world who come to visit the country and are eager to show them the beauty of their country. Their hospitality has earned them many awards over time which shows how much they appreciate visitors from abroad coming into their homes each year!
But it’s not that easy to describe it in just one or two paragraphs, so keep reading, and we travel to the great Istanbul through this article together.
Shall we begin?
Taking a stroll down Istiklal wonder street!
Have you ever had the experience of walking between tens of people of different nationalities? In ten steps, someone is playing the guitar, and a group of people are dancing and singing together, although they don’t even know each other!
In the next twenty steps, a boy is shouting with a smile on his face: “Hot oaks! Hot delicious oaks!”
And you can’t resist the smell, yet you are full from the ice cream you had eaten. That you took it really difficult from the Ice cream vendor who was making the scoops dance.
This is Istiklal street!
Istiklal Street (Independence Avenue) is a pedestrian street in Istanbul, Turkey. Located on the European side of the city between Taksim Square and Tünel Square. It was opened in 1871 and originally named Boulevard de Strasbourg (French). The street was renamed Istiklal Avenue after the Turkish War of Independence by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey on November 1, 1928.
Istanbul’s main shopping area includes stores selling traditional handicrafts as well as modern consumer goods. There are also a number of hotels located along this strip, including Cihangir Hotel which houses an art gallery that exhibits contemporary Turkish artists’ work. Pera Palace Hotel, which serves Ottoman cuisine at its restaurant Kuru Fes Cafe.
Istanbul nights are a chance to live another life
You may think it’s almost midnight and there is no store open in the streets, so let’s go to sleep.
Oh no! Wait!
There is another life at night here in Istanbul.
The city known for its vibrant nightlife, and the locals are very friendly. You can find many clubs, bars and pubs in Istanbul which organize different kinds of parties at different times during the week. If you like dancing, then this is your place! There are also many places where you can eat after your visit to one of these venues, as well as enjoy some traditional Turkish food.
It will amaze you, the beauty of the lightened city during the dark night when you are on a cruise boat, the smell of the sea and the sound of the boat floating on water mixed with the view of the Galata Bridge.
This is where you leave your heart in Istanbul!
Hagia Sophia, the masterpiece
The masterpiece painting of the great Istanbul is Hagia Sophia, a mosque that steals artists’, historians’, and travelers’ hearts.
Hagia Sophia is a former Orthodox patriarchal cathedral, later a mosque, and now a museum in Istanbul, Turkey. In Istanbul, you will discover more than just fun and beautiful nature when you visit Hagia Sophia. It is a treasure trove of old culture and originality.
It is one of the most admired buildings in the world and has been for centuries. Hagia Sophia originally built as a Christian church in 537 by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It was designed with a large central dome surrounded by four smaller domes and four minarets. It was the largest church in the world for centuries and was considered a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. After the fall of Constantinople in 1453, Hagia Sophia converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Empire. It was used as a mosque for almost 500 years until 1934 when it was officially secularized by the Republic of Turkey. Hagia Sophia was turned into a museum in 1935, and it remains a museum to this day.
In 1985, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, and in 2020. It was converted into a mosque once again. Hagia Sophia is one of the most iconic and well-known monuments in the world and has been a site of pilgrimage for Christians, Muslims and tourists alike for centuries. It is a symbol of the rich history and diverse culture of Turkey.
Grand Bazaar Istanbul
The Grand Bazaar Istanbul is a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops spread out over several acres. The bazaar has been in continuous operation since 1455 and was once home to more than 3,000 merchants. Today it remains one of the largest and oldest covered markets in Istanbul.
The Grand Bazaar is open to visitors from 9am until 7pm daily except for Mondays when it closes at noon instead of 5 pm. You can find anything from jewelry to spices at this market. However, it’s best known for its leather goods like shoes, bags and jackets made by local artisans who have been working there for decades! The Grand Bazaar offers an incredible array of goods and services. You can find anything from traditional Turkish carpets and hand-crafted jewelry to clothing and souvenirs. You can also find international brand names products such as Nike and Adidas, as well as local crafts and food. The shopping experience at the Grand Bazaar is a unique one, as you can bargain with the vendors and haggle for the best prices.
Galata Tower
The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower in the Galata neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. It stands on a hill that forms the natural boundary between the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara. Byzantine Emperor Anastasius I Dicorus built the tower as part of his palace complex, Blachernae Palace. The original height of this circular tower was 65 meters (213 ft), but following later repairs and modifications. It now stands at 52 meters (170 ft) high. As with many other towers in Istanbul, it has been used for various purposes over time, from being used as a watchtower during Ottoman times to multiple housing families in the present day.
In the 16th century, the tower renovated by Sinan, the Ottoman architect, who added a conical roof and a crenelated upper section. The tower also served as an observatory and used to observe the stars and other celestial bodies.
During the 19th century, the tower fell into disrepair and used as a prison for political prisoners. In the late 19th century, the tower renovated and opened to visitors. Since then, it has become one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks and is a popular tourist destination.
The tower is a popular spot for sightseeing, and often crowded with tourists. It is also the site of various cultural events, such as concerts and art exhibitions. The tower is one of the most recognizable symbols of Istanbul, and is a testament to its rich history and culture.
A fantasy land called Balat
Balat is like a fantasy land. This colorful neighborhood, located on the city’s European side, is one of Istanbul’s best-hidden gems.
You might not know it was there unless you looked for it. But once you do find it, you’ll never forget it. It feels very far away from anything else you’ve seen. You have to take an old tram or bus and walk through a maze of narrow alleys to get there.
The winding cobblestone streets of Balat lined with traditional buildings, many of which painted in bright colors. These buildings, constructed in a variety of styles, range from Ottoman, Greek, and Armenian to Byzantine. The streets also filled with art galleries, cafes, and antique stores, making it a great place to explore and find unique items. Balat is home to many historical sites, including the former Palace of the Grand Vizier, which built in the 16th century and is now home to a museum. Other notable buildings include the Church of St. George, the Church of St. Mary, and the Church of St. Stephen, all of which date back to Byzantine times.
In addition to its rich history, Balat also offers a variety of attractions. One of the most popular is the Pierre Loti Hill, which offers stunning views of the neighborhood and the Golden Horn. In addition to the hill, there are also several parks and gardens, including the popular Gülhane Park, which is home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife. Balat is an amazing place to visit, as it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interesting in exploring its history or its modern attractions, Balat is sure to have something to offer.
Travel in past times in Buyukada
Once you’re done exploring the city, head to Buyuk Ada. This small island in the Bosphorus is home to Dolmabahce Palace and a great place for relaxing and enjoying the view of Istanbul from afar. Büyükada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands in the Sea of Marmara, is an ideal place for family swimming on the beaches. With no cars on this idyllic and relaxed isle, horse-drawn carriages and bicycles remain the main modes of transportation. This city, alongside historical and cultural wealth, is a great destination for all travelers to visit.
The ferry ride and the wind in your hair will be pleasant before you reach your destination. You can feed the birds while they fly along with you on your journey!
There are many restaurants and cafes on Buyuk Adasi, so if you want a meal before heading back into town, this is an excellent place to stop! It’s also great for walking around. You can walk along the water or climb up some stairs onto higher ground overlooking everything below you.
Buyukada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands, is located off the coast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara. The island known for its serene atmosphere, lush vegetation, and stunning views of the city. Buyukada has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the Byzantine Empire. In the 4th century BC, the island used as a place of exile for criminals and political prisoners. During the Byzantine era, it used as a monastery and retreat spot for emperors and high-ranking officials. In the 11th century, Buyukada conquered by the Ottomans.
The island then used as a prison for Christian prisoners during the Ottoman Empire’s conquest of Constantinople in 1453. In the 19th century, Buyukada became a popular destination for wealthy families from Istanbul. They used the island as a summer retreat, and many of them built luxurious mansions and villas. The island also became a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and horseback riding. Today, Buyukada is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the beautiful villas and mansions, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the island’s lush forests, and enjoy a day at the beach. The island is also home to many restaurants and cafes that offer delicious Turkish cuisine and breathtaking views of the city. The Princes’ Islands are a group of nine islands located southeast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara.
The islands were named after the Byzantine princes who were exiled to them by the Ottoman Empire. The islands used as a place of exile for criminals and political prisoners from the 14th century until the 19th century. Today, the islands are a popular tourist destination for their serene atmosphere, lush vegetation, stunning views of the city, and historic sites. Visitors can explore the beautiful villas and mansions, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the island’s lush forests, and enjoy a day at the beach.
The dreamy Taksim Square
Taksim Square is one of the most famous squares in Istanbul, Turkey, located in the heart of the city. It is a lively and vibrant area full of shops, restaurants, and cafes and is a popular spot for tourists and locals. Taksim Square is a great place for people of all ages to explore and enjoy. The square surrounded by many historical sites, such as the Topkapi Palace and the Dolmabahce Palace, as well as the Galata Tower, which offers amazing views of the city. It is a great place to see performances of traditional Turkish music and dance. The square is also home to the Taksim Republic Monument, which commemorates the birth of the Turkish Republic in 1923. The area is home to some of the best shopping in Istanbul, with many designer stores, boutiques, and souvenir shops.
The square is also a great place to enjoy a variety of cuisines from all around the world, from Turkish and Mediterranean to Chinese and Indian. The attraction of Taksim Square lies in its vibrant atmosphere, its range of activities, and its historical and cultural importance. It is a great place to explore, shop, eat, and enjoy great views of the city.
Istanbul trams
Trams are the perfect way to get around Istanbul. They’re cheap and easy, but most importantly, they allow you to see all of Istanbul’s beautiful neighborhoods while enjoying the city’s unique architecture and history. Trams run through every neighborhood in Istanbul, so you’ll never have to worry about getting lost or not being able to get home again!
The best part about these trams is that tickets can be bought from either the driver or at kiosks located near stops along each line (just look for signs). There are two types of tickets. One-way tickets, which cost 2 lira per person, and round-trip tickets, which cost 4 lira per person (round trip, meaning both ways). You can pay with cash or credit card, but only certain machines take coins, so make sure you have enough small bills on hand if necessary!
“If the Earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital.” Napoleon Bonaparte
If you love history and culture, Istanbul is the place for you! You can visit historical places such as Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace or enjoy Turkish coffee in one of its many cafes.
Do not forget that Istanbul also know for its delicious cuisine! From traditional Turkish dishes to international fast food chains like McDonald’s or Burger King (which we call “Papa John” here), there are plenty of options if you want to taste something new while visiting our beautiful city. Istanbul is one of the most magical cities in the world. It has a rich history and amazing culture that makes it stand out from other cities. You can find everything here, from beautiful mosques to delicious food! There are also plenty of nightlife options no matter what kind of person you are!
And this was only with the reading; imagine if you feel all of it there!
People were right when they said there is no other place on earth as beautiful looking as Istanbul!
To make it memorable with health tourism
Besides all these amazing experiences, there is one thing that you can make your travel the most by it.
Istanbul is quickly becoming a premier destination for health tourism and is a hotspot for people seeking beauty procedures. With its vibrant culture, world-renowned hospitals, and abundance of talented surgeons. Istanbul has become an increasingly popular choice for individuals looking to improve their appearance and overall health. The city’s medical infrastructure is highly advance and is home to many of the world’s leading hospitals and clinics. Istanbul’s hospitals offer a variety of cosmetic treatments, such as Botox, dermal fillers, laser skin resurfacing, and hair transplantation.
These procedures perform by experienced and qualified surgeons and doctors, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality of care. In addition to health tourism, Istanbul is also popular for its beauty procedures. From manicures and pedicures to facials and waxing, there are endless possibilities for those looking to enhance their appearance. The city is home to some of the most renowned beauty salons and spas, offering a variety of treatments and services. With its world-class medical infrastructure and abundance of talented surgeons, Istanbul is an ideal destination for those seeking beauty procedures.
Dr. Abedini is one of the most experienced and talented aesthetic doctors here in Istanbul, providing the most professional beauty services. She understands women’s needs, and she is here to improve health and beauty as a mission.
If you want to be one of the people who, besides having fun and traveling, enhance your beauty, do not hesitate to contact us.