In 2010, I embarked on a journey from Mumbai, India, to Istanbul, Turkey, which turned out to be an extraordinary adventure. Istanbul, with its captivating history, vibrant culture, and magnificent architecture, has always been on my bucket list. Join me as I share the complete details of my travel, stay, sightseeing, tourist spots, the best time to travel, cuisine, and more from this remarkable trip.
Istanbul, is one of the most populous cities in the world and serves as the cultural, economic, and historic center of Turkey. Istanbul is situated on the Bosporus Strait, which separates Europe from Asia, making it a transcontinental city spanning two continents.
The city has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It was founded as Byzantium in the 7th century BC and later became Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire. In 1453, the Ottoman Empire conquered the city and renamed it Istanbul. As a result, Istanbul has a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western influences, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and culture.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul is the Hagia Sophia, a magnificent Byzantine cathedral turned mosque and now a museum. Other notable landmarks include the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Bazaar. The city is also famous for its stunning views of the Bosporus and its many bridges connecting the European and Asian sides.
Istanbul has a diverse and lively atmosphere with a thriving arts and entertainment scene. It offers a wide range of cultural activities, including museums, art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The city is also known for its bustling street markets, where you can find a variety of goods, from spices and textiles to antiques and souvenirs.
Traveling from Mumbai to Istanbul: I chose to fly from Mumbai to Istanbul, opting for Turkish Airlines, a renowned airline that offers direct flights between the two cities. The flight took approximately seven hours, during which I enjoyed the comfortable amenities and excellent service provided by the airline. May was the month I chose for my visit, as it offered pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to explore Istanbul.
Accommodation: Upon arriving in Istanbul, I settled into the Sultanahmet Palace Hotel, a charming establishment situated in the heart of the city’s historic district. This hotel offered mesmerizing views of the Sea of Marmara and was conveniently located within walking distance of major attractions such as the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. The hotel staff were friendly and accommodating, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
Sightseeing and Tourist Spots: Istanbul is a treasure trove of historical landmarks and iconic sights. My first stop was the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a magnificent structure that once served as a cathedral, later transforming into a mosque and eventually becoming a museum. Its breathtaking Byzantine architecture and intricate mosaics left me in awe.
Next, I visited the iconic Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue Iznik tiles. The mosque’s grandeur and architectural beauty were truly remarkable, and I had the opportunity to witness the call to prayer, which added to the spiritual ambiance.
Exploring the bustling Grand Bazaar was an adventure in itself. This vibrant marketplace, with its labyrinthine streets and over 4,000 shops, offered a fascinating glimpse into Istanbul’s rich trading history. I delighted in browsing through a plethora of shops selling everything from exquisite textiles and jewelry to spices and traditional crafts. Please do note that you would get the best first copy of all the major brands in the world from Gucci to Rolex and so on. Use your bargaining power as they are mostly fake in this market. One of the movies of James Bond series – Skyfall was shot on the rooftop of this market wherein you could see Daniel Craig doing what he does best.
Another highlight of my trip was the visit to Topkapi Palace, once the opulent residence of the Ottoman sultans. This vast palace complex, now a museum, showcased stunning artifacts, including exquisite jewelry, imperial costumes, and sacred relics. Exploring the intricately designed courtyards, lush gardens, and beautiful panoramic views of the Bosphorus was a truly captivating experience.
To witness the mesmerizing beauty of Istanbul from a different perspective, I embarked on a Bosphorus cruise. Sailing along the strait that separates Europe and Asia, I marveled at the stunning skyline adorned with a blend of modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks. The cruise offered a unique vantage point to appreciate the city’s architectural marvels, including the iconic Maiden’s Tower and the picturesque waterfront mansions.
Cuisine: Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse culinary traditions. During my stay, I indulged in a myriad of delectable dishes. I started my days with a traditional Turkish breakfast, a feast comprising fresh bread, olives, cheeses, honey, and aromatic Turkish tea. The experience of savoring these flavors while enjoying the view from my hotel’s terrace was an absolute delight.
For lunch, I often found myself exploring local eateries and trying a variety of kebabs, including the famous Adana kebab and lamb shish. The succulent meat, perfectly seasoned and grilled, served with fresh salads and warm pita bread, was a culinary revelation. I also had a taste of the renowned street food, Simit, a circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds, perfect for a quick snack while strolling through the city.
No trip to Turkey is complete without sampling their famous desserts. I had the pleasure of tasting various types of baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and held together with syrup or honey. The richness of the flavors was simply divine. I also enjoyed Turkish delight, a sweet confectionery treat that comes in a variety of flavors and is often served with Turkish tea.
During my stay, I also took a traditional Turkish tea and coffee tasting tour. The brewing method and the ritual of serving and enjoying these beverages were fascinating to learn about. The strong, aromatic Turkish coffee, served in small, stylish cups, was a daily indulgence I thoroughly enjoyed.
Best Time to Travel: The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer mild and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the city and its numerous outdoor attractions. However, the city’s beauty shines throughout the year. The summer months can be quite warm, while winter brings a cooler climate and sometimes even snow, which adds a magical touch to the city’s historic landmarks.
Cultural Insights: Istanbul is much more than its historic sites and culinary offerings. The city is a melting pot of cultures, and its people are a testament to that. The locals were warm, welcoming, and always ready to help, making my journey even more enjoyable. I also had the opportunity to witness a traditional Turkish music and dance performance, which was a vibrant display of the country’s rich cultural heritage.
My trip to Istanbul was indeed an unforgettable journey. The city’s captivating blend of east and west, its rich history, vibrant culture, and the warmth of its people left an indelible impression on me. Istanbul truly is a city where the past and the present coexist harmoniously, offering experiences that are unique and memorable. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or an adventurer, Istanbul has something to offer for every traveler. I hope my journey inspires you to pack your bags and experience the enchanting city of Istanbul for yourself.
Mindful Musings 