Welcome to Istanbul! Travel tips +
Our Experience

In this blog you can read more about our time in Istanbul, Turkey. I also share some useful tips for Istanbul and I select the best hotels and hostels when you go backpacking and get through Istanbul!

We have arrived in Turkey! Following two delightful weeks in the Netherlands, where we could have happily extended our stay by another week, we are now on the move again after spending four months traveling through Africa. Our backpacks are exceptionally heavy this time as they contain party clothes for a wedding and warm attire for our upcoming trek in Nepal's Annapurna region. But first, we explore Istanbul!

Walking through the streets of Istanbul, you quickly find yourself immersed in a vibrant blend of cultures. The cobblestones beneath your feet carry the history of ancient empires, while the air is filled with the inviting scents of street food and the melodic calls to prayer. Every corner you turn reveals something new, from the bustling alleys of the Grand Bazaar with its array of colors and aromas to the serene courtyards of the Hagia Sophia adorned with beautiful mosaics. Exploring neighborhoods like the artistic Karaköy and the historic Sultanahmet, you get a true sense of the city's rich heritage. A stroll along the Bosphorus offers stunning views of the water and the city's illuminated skyline, making every moment in Istanbul a captivating experience.

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Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia

Visiting the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is an awe-inspiring experience that encapsulates the city rich history and architectural grandeur. The Blue Mosque, with its cascading domes and six minarets, stands as a testament to Ottoman craftsmanship, its interior adorned with over 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles that create a serene and ethereal atmosphere. Just a short walk away, the Hagia Sophia boasts a remarkable history, having served as both a cathedral and a mosque. Its massive dome, supported by intricate Byzantine architecture, seems to float above the spacious nave, casting a sense of wonder on all who enter. The mosaics, some shimmering with gold, narrate centuries of religious and cultural transitions. Outside, the courtyards and gardens provide a tranquil retreat from the bustling city. As you stand between these two monumental structures, you feel a profound connection to the past, where empires rose and fell, and different faiths found expression under these majestic roofs. The experience is both humbling and uplifting, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Istanbul's unique place at the crossroads of history and culture.

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Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is a majestic symbol of Ottoman grandeur and history. Located in the heart of the city, it served as the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace complex, which includes lavish courtyards, ornate rooms, and beautiful gardens, is a reflection of the empire's wealth and sophistication. Visitors can explore the Imperial Harem, where the sultan's family lived, and view the stunning collection of imperial treasures, including jewel-encrusted weapons, delicate porcelain, and the famous Topkapi Dagger. The palace also houses religious relics, such as the Prophet Muhammad's cloak and sword, adding to its historical and cultural significance. The views from the palace grounds are breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. A visit to Topkapi Palace is a journey through the opulence and power of the Ottoman Empire, and it provides a deep insight into the rich history and heritage of Istanbul.