Istanbul is a must visit destination in Turkey. While the city has abundanceof places to visit and things to do, here is a list of the top 5 things to do in Turkey’s Istanbul to make sure that you get the taste of the city during your visit.
1- Take a Turkish bath.
Make sure not to miss the experience of the Turkish bath. Baths in Istanbul range from the ones for touristy expensive ones and the regular ones, but the experience is quite the same.
Note that men and women are separated and you shouldn’t mind being undressed in front of others and having someone else scrubbing your body.
2- Enjoy a ferry across the Bosphorus to Istanbul’s Asian part.
Istanbul is both in Europe and Asia and contains the only two intercontinental bridges in the world. Ferries are cheap and will allow you to see Istanbul from the water. Ferries are available at the main bridge in Eminönü.
3- Stop by the Blue Mosque.
It is the most famous landmark in Istanbul, you can see it dominating the skyline from the Bosphorus. It got its name due to the blue tiles all over the inside ceiling. Note that visitors should take off their shoes, they will give you a bag to put them in it. Women should wear modest clothes and cover their hair.
4- The Underground Cistern.
It is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath Istanbul. It was built in the 6th century and water was transported here from the Belgrade Forest, 19km away. Entry is 10 lira. You must have seen it in some movies.
5- Visit Istanbul’s Bazaars.
There are several bazaars in Istanbul including the Spice Bazaar and the grand bazaar. You will see a great range of products and food. Make sure to drop by some of them.
