If you’ve been thinking of traveling to Istanbul, you may be surprised at all that the city has to offer. There are historic sites to view, fantastic restaurants to visit, and shopping that can please even the most discerning traveler. Whether you’re dreaming of spending some time in the Hagia Sophia or want to see the Egyptian Spice Market, you can catch all of the most interesting sights during a one-week visit to the city, and here are a few tips you might use to help you reach that lofty goal.
Get Prepared
Before you start packing, take the time to familiarize yourself with the streets using maps. Take note of where the sites you’re most interested in are located. Most of them will likely be in the Old City, but there are historic buildings and architectural treasures scattered throughout the city and the nearby area. Istanbul has a healthy public transportation system, so you can use the local trams and buses to get from one area to the next. Take the Tour
One option is to leave your visit in the hands of professionals and take a tour. You’ll have a clear itinerary to follow, and a professional will work closely with you to ensure that you don’t miss any important sites. This is the top choice if you want to see the hottest areas and don’t want to miss anything. However, it may not be the right choice if you like to linger and take in the finer details of any given site.
Work Your Way Back
Once you make a list of the areas you’d like to visit, start each day by traveling to the site that’s furthest out and then working your way back toward your hotel. You’ll spend less time dealing with transportation and more time enjoying your visit. The next day, you can start over by heading out in a different direction when you start sightseeing.
Make Meals Part of the Experience
You can stop and get a bite to eat at open air markets, and this is certainly part of the experience. However, there are also countless restaurants, bars and clubs that feature local performers and can give you a glimpse into the city’s true culture. You can make the most of your available time by dining at restaurants that offer local foods and entertainment. It will take a little longer, but you’ll enjoy each meal and get more out of your overall visit.
One of the key decisions to make is choosing your hotel. While the luxury resorts may be tempting, a boutique hotel that’s located near the Old City can help you save time and give you a convenient home base for your adventures by keeping you closer to the sites you want to visit. Hotel Büyük Keban is recently remodeled in order to provide you with the top amenities you want without losing our welcoming atmosphere. We’re located near public transportation lines, and our staff members are happy to help you find the way to the different areas you’re ready to visit.
If you’re ready to book your trip, be sure to make your reservations at Hotel Büyük Keban today!
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