Tag: istanbul

  • Basilica Cistern Kids’ Special Journey

    Visiting the Basilica Cistern with children can be a very different experience when they know what they are looking at and have a story to follow. Instead of simply walking through the dark columns and looking around, they can discover the Cistern step by step, with information presented in a way that is easier and…

  • 1st Day in Istanbul

    After a delicious Turkish breakfast, we recommend visiting Hagia Sophia early in the morning. In fact, we suggest arriving at the ticket office just before 8:30 AM. This is an important tip if you want to avoid waiting in a long line. Once you leave Hagia Sophia, you’ll see the tram tracks. Cross the road…

  • Istanbul’s Asian Side: A Comprehensive Guide to Must-See Places and Things to Do

    First, we recommend starting your breakfast with something light. If you are staying on the European side, getting to the Asian side and exploring it will take some time. There are so many enjoyable things to do, so let’s start the day with a warm, crispy börek and a Turkish tea. Assuming you are staying…

  • How to Visit Hagia Sophia: What to See & What Not to Miss

    First, let’s make one thing clear. The first floor of Hagia Sophia, which is the main prayer area, is closed to visitors. Only Turkish citizens can enter this area. The upper floor, or gallery level, is open to visitors. You can also see the lower floor from the upper level. In our opinion, the view…

  • kidsistanbul: Discover Miniaturk with Your Kids🏰 Turkiye in Miniature

    Are you looking for a unique family adventure in Istanbul? Imagine seeing all of Turkiye’s greatest treasures in a single afternoon. Welcome to Miniaturk, a fascinating miniature park that brings the country’s rich history and architectural wonders to life on a smaller scale. This open-air museum offers a captivating journey through Turkish culture, making it…

  • foodistanbul: Discover Turkiye’s Diverse Kebab Varieties You Must Taste

    Key Highlights Discover the incredible diversity of Turkish kebab varieties beyond the world-famous Döner. Explore how different types of kebabs are shaped by regional traditions and local spices. Learn about the unique preparation methods, from grilling over an open flame to slow-cooking in a clay pot. Uncover the vibrant food scene of Turkiye, where kebabs…

  • historyistanbul: Rumeli Fortress – Essential Self-Guided Tour Guide (2026)

    Rising dramatically above the European shore of the Bosphorus, Rumeli Fortress is one of Istanbul’s most impressive reminders of the city’s Ottoman past. Built by Sultan Mehmed II in 1452, the fortress was designed to control ships passing through the Bosphorus in preparation for the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Construction began in March and was…

  • viewistanbul: Safir Kule (Sapphire Sky Deck)

    Istanbul Sapphire is the 17th tallest building in Europe, after The Shard in London Bridge. It stands out as the best place to view Istanbul from above. The building has a total of 66 floors and a height of 261 meters. Constructed as both a shopping mall and a residence, it is located on Buyukdere…

  • historyistanbul: Kız Kulesi (Maiden’s Tower)

    This elegant structure, the symbol of Üsküdar, stands at the mouth of the Bosphorus, just 200 meters from the shore. According to an old legend, the mythological hero Leandros was in love with Hero, a priestess of Aphrodite (Venus) who lived in the city of Sestos on the European side of the Hellespont (today’s Dardanelles).…

  • From Topkapı to Your Table: Ottoman Royal Cuisine👑

    The sultans of the Ottoman Empire, who succeeded in making their name known to the world, are not only fascinating for their war policies but also for their eating habits. Let’s take a look at the Palace Kitchen together! Make sure you’re not too hungry!😊 Or just get a ticket! Straight to Istanbul!✈️ In the…