Discover Istanbul: Why a Stopover with Turkish Airlines is a Must

As Turkish Airlines popularity is soaring, so do the number of travellers to Istanbul. Many merely transiting. However, after this little snippet we hope to inspire a few to not only take advantage of Turkish Airlines incredible airfares, but also take the opportunity to visit their ever so vibrant hub-city, Istanbul.

When to Travel

Like any city, different seasons in Istanbul will attract different travellers. In the peak of summer, you can expect Istanbul to be jiving and thriving with beautiful outdoor dining along the Bosphorus, many music festivals showcasing a variety of genres, and cooling off in one of the several pools dotted across town or a beach near the Black Sea. In the cooler months, although less lively, you may find yourself appreciating the indoors at venues like the local Museums and Mosques. There is also more opportunity to delve into local life with reduced amounts of tourists, increased visibility of the local people (many leave town during peak season), and reduced pricing in local markets and attractions.

Whichever season appeals to you most, there are a few must-do’s regardless of the season.

Topkapi Palace

Once the home and office of the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire, now a museum offering a glimpse into their lives. Topkapi Palace, unlike any other Palace, is made of many buildings, with differing purposes, that surround the main house. It could be said that the highlight of the Palace would be the Harem, and the many Treasuries scattered across the grounds.

The Harem, meaning “private”, was the families living quarters. Although 6 floors, only 1 is open to the public. Enough to ignite the imagination on what life was like behind closed doors for Turkish Royalty. The Harem has roughly 300 rooms, used mainly as housing for the many concubines that were being educated and trained in hopes to become a lady-in-waiting.

As mentioned, there are a few Treasuries in Topkapi palace, all displaying their own collections. Some, just a holding place of financial records, others however, showcasing antiques such as weaponry and armour from the Ottoman Empire, andjewels and objects made with gold, silver, rubies, emeralds, jade, pearls, and diamonds.

The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and The Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)

Located directly opposite each other, these two grandiose structures are a must see! Aside from the sheer size, and majestical architecture, both Mosques hold significant cultural and historical value to Turkey, it’s people, and World history!

The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, built in the 6th century and was completed in 5 years, was intended to be a Christian place of worship. Over the centuries, its purpose has shifted from being a Christian church to a Mosque to a museum, and now currently a Mosque again. Consisting of a large dome roof, incredible mosaics made from gold, silver, glass, terra cotta and colourful stones, and marble flooring, ceiling, and slabs – this piece of history is unlike anything you’ve seen before.

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, built to complement the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, was built in the 17th Century during the Ottoman Empire as a show of power and wealth. Unlike other Mosques in the region, this Mosque consists of 6 minarets (instead of the usual 2-4) and rumoured to be due to a miscommunication between the Sultan and the architect. Rumour or not, it upheld its purpose of portraying strength and wealth. Home of up to 20,000 blue, hand-crafted tiles that sprawl across the interior, all of which featuring different images and designs, causing the invention of a very fitting nickname – the Blue Mosque.

The Grand Bazaar

A shopping centre even the kids are sure to appreciate. Covered in colour, containing a labyrinth of domed hallways, and the never-ending choice of goods, you could explore the Bazaar for hours. Home to roughly 4,000 different stalls, selling things from Turkish rugs and vibrant lanterns to clothing and jewellery. There is something for everyone!

BONUS TIP: After negotiations and a sale is complete, it is very common for a shop keeper to offer you tea and a seat for a chat. A way to celebrate the happy transaction. An amazing opportunity to connect and learn from the very people that know Turkey best.

Bosphorus

The Bosphorus Strait runs through the west side of Turkey, cutting the country in two. One side of the Bosphorus, belonging to Europe, and the other side belonging to Asia. Everything you think of when you think Istanbul is located on the European side of Turkey – but let me entice you to get away from the hustle and bustle.

A 1.5 hour ferry ride along the Bosphorus and you come to a cluster of small Islands named the Princes Islands, geographically located in Asia. Historically purposed as a place of banishment, these Islands have now become a peaceful retreat. As recent as 2020, the main form of transport was horse and carriage. However, since then, electric buses and taxis have been authorised to replace the latter. Unkept forests, small town cottages, and beautiful Monasteries are all things you can expect to see during your visit. Hire a bicycle, travel down the small-town lanes, and lap up the serenity. You will not be disappointed.

There is so much more to do and see in Istanbul than what is written here, so I encourage you to do your own research and enlighten yourself about the magic of Istanbul. However, if you find yourself considering Turkish Airlines for your next holiday, why not consider a stopover in this alluring city? Remember, flexibility is key to finding a great airfare! A few nights in Istanbul, could not only save you money but also provide you with an experience of a lifetime. Well worth it.

Contact a Geek today on 1300 086 895 and let us build you an amazing Turkish Airlines itinerary – where you can experience the luxury!

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