Where do you go when you want to experience a menagerie of senses? Or awaken to the aroma of Turkish espresso while viewing splendid architecture outside your hotel window? Do you desire to walk lively streets and bazaars of exotic spices, huge figs and roasted chestnuts? Or turn a corner to enter the Grand Bazaar, where thousands of shops shimmer and shine with their baubles and bags? Perhaps it’s massive monuments, mosques and minarets you seek … or simple kebabs, kokorec and pomegranate juices. Maybe it’s “Turkish Delight on a moonlit night”?
From sparkling lanterns and glamorous garb to locals in subdued dress and head covers, the contrasting visuals are part of Istanbul’s intrigue. Like the song says, “Istanbul was Constantinople. Now it’s Istanbul, not Constantinople,” but for many, it still is Constantinople, the city of Byzantium.
Remnants of Greek essence and origins exist from corners of Hagia Sophia, where original iconography peeks out of the plaster to mythological features found elsewhere in the city. The name “Constantinas” is a reference to people who have roots dating back to Constantinople’s era. Constantinople translates to “the city of Constantine” (the emperor) and Istanbul means “to the city.” Whichever way it’s referenced, it’s a spectacle that spans two continents, Europe and Asia. Even the Bosphorus is also spelled Bosporus! Being located on the coast of the picturesque Bosporus Strait absolutely enhances Istanbul’s mesmerizing vistas.
Day One: Stay in the heartbeat of the city-center with packed streets, usually safe with undercover security. Stroll avenues of enticing restaurants and rotisseries. Attend a Whirling Dervishes show and learn about their ritualistic journey to enlightenment. Savor an elaborate Turkish dinner.
Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar dazzles visitors with thousands of shops filled with spices, textiles and treasures. Photo by Gina Michalopulos Kingsley
Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar dazzles visitors with thousands of shops filled with spices, textiles and treasures.
Day Two: Accomplish your sightseeing all on foot! The walkability of the city-center is a perk. Descend into the Basilica Cistern, the ancient underground water storage system. The once functional system resembles an elegant ballroom. The glow of lights creates an intimate atmosphere as you follow the maze-like paths. The height prevents it from feeling claustrophobic or underground. Ornate details decorate the structure as Medusa statue heads seem to “hold court” as well as a shadowy visage of the mythological creature projected onto a wall. Ascend into the street to wander shops or taverns where rich textiles and comfy cushions invite you to sit and recharge with refreshments. Next, get in line for the astounding Hagia Sophia, the pinnacle of Byzantine architecture later converted into a mosque. Skip long lines by hiring a private guide with immediate access. The nearby Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace are crowded, so plan for a guide.
Day Three: Bazaar Day! The Grand Bazaar is overwhelming but worth it. There are thousands of stores, and if mini-showrooms don’t have the exact product you want, vendors may usher you to larger showrooms in back alleys for the hard sell. The Spice Bazaar, this travel writer’s favorite, is more laid back and charming. Take a sunset cruise on the Bosporus Strait which outdoes many famous European rivers. The illuminated boats and buildings along the shores give a magical touch to the night’s dark sky. Performances range from spiritual Whirling Dervish solos to sensual belly dancers and lively folk dancers.
Day Four: A unique adventure to accomplish today involves long walks; one to Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate where the Patriarch resides and where holy relics are displayed. Walking back to the city-center, cross the Bosphorus Bridge for the experience of connecting Europe to Asia over the Bosporus Strait. End each night atop a rooftop bar overlooking an incandescent city.
Days 5 and on: Explore the other regions of Turkey now that you’ve experienced the delights strait ‘outta Istanbul!
