ISTANBUL, TURKEY | 7 INCREDIBLE Things To Do In Istanbul!

Summary

Join Zac and Ine as they explore Istanbul, Turkey, sharing the top seven activities to experience in this vibrant city. From the bustling Istiklal Street to the historic Topkapi Palace, each location offers a unique taste of Istanbul's rich culture and history. Discover the city's culinary delights, indulge in an authentic Turkish bath, and marvel at the architectural marvels like the Hagia Sophia. The video also offers practical travel tips to avoid scams and navigate the city's public transport system for an unforgettable Istanbul adventure.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and a hub of culture, history, and commerce, but it's not the capital.
• 🏙️ The city is vast, with a population of 15 million, offering a plethora of activities and sights to explore.
• 🍽️ Istiklal Street is a must-visit, offering a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, and eateries where you can sample local delicacies like Kumpir.
• 🛀 Experiencing an authentic Turkish bath, or Hamam, is a cultural rite that involves sweating, scrubbing, and relaxation.
• 🌉 A walk across the Galata Bridge provides a picturesque view of the Golden Horn and connects modern Istanbul with its historic Old Town.
• 🏰 Topkapi Palace, once the heart of the Ottoman Empire, is a treasure trove of history and architectural beauty.
• 🏰 The Galata Tower offers panoramic views of the city and a museum that delves into its historical significance.
• 🛍️ Shopping at the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar is an immersive experience in local trade and cuisine.
• 🕌 A visit to the Hagia Sophia, with its rich history as a church, mosque, and museum, is a highlight of any Istanbul trip.
• 🚶‍♂️ Walking and using public transport like the metro or tram are recommended over taxis or buses due to traffic congestion.
• ⚠️ Be vigilant against scams, especially in tourist-heavy areas, and avoid being drawn into shops by overly friendly strangers.

Q & A

Who are Zac and Ine, and what are they known for?

Zac and Ine are full-time digital nomads from the United States and Belgium. They met while studying abroad in 2018 and have been traveling the world together ever since, inspiring others for their adventures through their channel which features unfiltered videos of hiking guides and the best things to do in various destinations.

What is the population of Istanbul, and what is its significance?

Istanbul has a population of 15 million people, making it not only the largest city in Turkey but also its economic, cultural, and historical center.

What is the historical name of Istanbul?

Istanbul was formerly known as Constantinople, a city that goes back thousands of years with a rich history.

How long is recommended to stay in Istanbul to enjoy its attractions?

It is recommended to stay at least three to five days in Istanbul to be able to enjoy the many attractions and activities the city has to offer.

What is the significance of Istiklal Street in Istanbul?

Istiklal Street is the busiest street in Istanbul, comparable to Oxford Street in London or Fifth Avenue in New York City, known for its wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants, bars, and movie theaters.

What is a traditional Turkish bath, or Hamam, and its cultural importance?

A traditional Turkish bath, or Hamam, is an important part of Turkish culture, used for purification of the body and mind through sweating, rinsing, and a full body scrub. It was primarily used within the Ottoman Empire starting in the 16th century.

What is unique about the Galata Bridge in Istanbul?

The Galata Bridge spans the Golden Horn, an inlet of the Bosphorus river, and connects modern Istanbul on the north with the Old Town on the south, offering a vibrant atmosphere with fishermen and bustling Eminönü Square.

Why is Topkapi Palace an architectural highlight in Istanbul?

Topkapi Palace is an architectural highlight because it was home to the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years and was the heart of the vast Ottoman Empire. It features hundreds of rooms decorated with beautiful tiles, gold, and other decorations, and some rooms function as museums displaying Ottoman artillery.

What activities are recommended at the Galata Tower?

At the Galata Tower, visitors can enjoy the best views in Istanbul and learn about its historical importance and use over time, with an audio guide available at the entrance.

What are the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar known for?

The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar are known for their extensive markets with over 4,000 shops selling a variety of goods from food to ceramics, gold, leather, and Turkish carpets. They are also places to indulge in local culture and practice bargaining.

Why is the Hagia Sophia considered the best thing to do in Istanbul?

The Hagia Sophia is considered the best thing to do in Istanbul because of its historical and architectural significance. It was once the greatest church in Christendom, later a mosque, and then a museum, and in 2020, it reverted back to a mosque. It offers a deep insight into the city's history, and free walking tours are available for further understanding.

What are some tips for navigating Istanbul and avoiding scams?

To navigate Istanbul, it's best to walk, use the metro or tram, and get a transportation card with help from an official transportation officer. To avoid scams, be cautious around touristic highlights and don't follow strangers into shops if not interested in making a purchase.

What other attractions in Istanbul are worth mentioning?

Other attractions in Istanbul include a boat tour from the European to the Asian side, visiting rooftop bars or restaurants for views, strolling around the colorful Balat, visiting the mosaic museum or archaeological museum, and the Basilica Cistern when it's open.