Joanna James
Immersed in jewel-toned echoes of Byzantium and Ottoman majesty while elegantly embracing the modern world, this transcontinental Capital envelopes the senses in experiential transcendence. Here’s all you can’t miss in arresting Istanbul.
A whimsically cutting-edge city perfect for chasing hidden gems on foot or by vintage tram, Istanbul answers the call of every wanderlust seeker, with its bejewelled domes, sunset spires, vibrant labyrinths, and richly crumbling relics. While this kaleidoscopic city is adorned with gorgeous timepieces from diverse mighty empires, it’s no secret that the Hagia Sophia reigns as a crown jewel; a UNESCO-listed heritage marvel in which old worlds stunningly collide, with aerial minerals, elaborate chandeliers, ethereal stained-glass niches, and opulent marble parapets. Even if you aren’t an ardent history buff marvelling at one of the last preserved structures of imperial Byzantine, this spellbinding terracotta-hued edifice, set like a futuristic-meets-medieval fortress between lush parkland and azure waters, will beguile you with its breathtaking artistry.
Whether you’re most enticed by the pulsating vibes, eclectic architecture, bespoke boutiques, time-honored brands, antique bookshops, and authentic eateries of Istiklal Street, the quirkily Insta-worthy Perihan Abla Street, with its quaint wooden houses painted in unique hues, or the deliciously cobblestoned Galip Dede Street with its retro-chic ambiance, Istanbul has no shortage of atmospheric indulgences! However, if you like your explorations into living historic tapestries embroidered with thousands of vibrant shops dizzying the senses with vintage glamour, The Grand Bazaar is an intensely shoppable adventure, whether you love rummaging through exquisite Turkish lamps, vividly intricate iznik pottery, luxuriant handwoven carpets, or fragrantly nourishing handmade soaps.
Step into a realm of otherworldly tranquillity in this mesmerising Ottoman masterpiece of soaring minarets and ascending domes, an imperial landmark that instantly ignites inspiration no matter how often you visit it, ornamented with fluted columns, cascading balconies, arcaded galleries, and a dazzling choreography of mosaiced glass and iznik tilework in rich shades of blue, turquoise, and green. If you’re hunting for sophisticated Istanbul serviced apartments offering prime access to its chief allurements, venture no further than the likes of Somerset Maslak Istanbul.
For stomach-dropping 360-degree panoramas of the scintillating city, its lights reflected by the undulating Bosphorus, scale the storybook Galata Tower and spend timeless moments reading Istanbul’s 2500-year-old history as far as your gaze can sweep. After you have feasted your eyes on the tongue-twisting spread of this gracefully ancient city, head to the enchanting square below, where you can indulge in strong coffee or sweet tea and Turkish Delight while losing yourself in the spirited rustic brilliance of your surroundings.
Gracing the dramatically beautiful Istanbul Peninsula and theatrically lavished with a revolving cast of riveting exhibitions, this intriguingly sumptuous relic of the Ottoman Era leaves nothing to be furnished by the wildest imagination, with its intimidating battlements, opulent chambers, spacious courtyards patterned with hand-painted tiles, captivating Islamic artwork, and literal treasure trove that will have you pinching yourself in case you’re dreaming!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
