So, you’re hoping for an unforgettable vacation, correct? Look no further than Turkey! I’ve been dreaming about this place for years, and honestly, it baffles me that it’s not a top contender for everyone’s travel lists! I deem it an enchanting wonderland of sorts – straight out of a movie. I’ve done the homework; I’ve scoured through TikToks, and now, I’m excited to get you on board, too!
Whether you’re a heritage buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or someone who just wants to feast your eyes on breathtaking landscapes, Turkey will pamper your senses. This country is a treasure chest waiting to be opened, and planning your trip is easier than you think! By the end of this, I hope you’ll be as pumped about it as I am. Feel free to mix and match ideas to tailor your itinerary to your preferences and the length of your stay. Without further ado, get ready to add this to your bucket list!
Iconic Attractions
Ah, Istanbul – the city that oozes history and character at every turn. We can’t talk about Turkey without starting here, right? One moment, you’re walking through palaces centuries-old; the next, you’re sipping an afternoon tea in a modern café. Here are some iconic attractions that truly capture Istanbul’s essence!
Hagia Sophia
Start your morning in the Sultanahmet district, where you’ll find the Hagia Sophia – one of Turkey’s most prominent landmarks! There is an entrance fee, but the experience is priceless! Missing out on this serious historical beauty would be a crime. I mean, seeing it online had me rendered speechless already! Just be mindful of prayer times since it’s still functioning as a place of worship.
The interior of the Hagia Sophia is, simply put, mesmerising – adorned with calligraphy and its soaring dome floating above. Be careful not to get caught in a trance! The soft light filtering through the large stained-glass windows, too, gives the place an ethereal feel. And you can’t help but stop and admire the grandeur of the massive columns that create the mosque’s famous architectural silhouette! If you love taking photos, this is a dream.
Ticketing queues can get brutal, so I recommend getting in line as close to opening hours as possible! Better yet, secure skip-the-line tickets prior to your trip – you’ll save time and enjoy more time in the Hagia Sophia. Plus, if you’re keen on exploring other must-see spots, you’ll be able to find plenty of combo packages with audio guides and guided tours to choose from!
📍Location: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
💲Price: Starting at S$46+ (for skip-the-line tickets online)
⏰ Opening Hours: 9am to 7.30pm
Topkapi Palace
And if you’re willing to dent your wallet a little, you can walk over to the nearby Topkapi Palace with a skip-the-line ticket and an audio guide. If you love getting a glimpse of royal life (and maybe pretending you’re a part of it), this one’s worth every penny. This former Ottoman palace offers stunning views of the Bosphorus (a well-known strait in Turkey) and a fascinating glimpse into the lives of sultans. If you’ve got little ones with you, bonus points – kids under six get the same package for free!
Picture yourself walking through the open courtyard and onto the hypnotising tilework in the palace. You’ll find beautifully crafted ceramics and learn about some of the most exquisite artefacts! The Topkapi palace is home to the Holy Relics, some of the most sacred religious items, including the Staff of Moses and Prophet Muhammad’s bow. I can’t even begin to imagine being in the presence of that!
📍Location: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
💲Price: Starting at S$77.10 (for skip-the-line tickets online)
⏰ Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm
Bosphorus Strait
For something a little extra to wrap up your day, how about a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus? It’s a spectacular way to see the city skyline painted in gold as the sun sets and illuminates the minarets and bridges. You might hear distant calls to prayer with the soft sounds of water as the city transitions from day to night.
Kick back and let serenity wash over you as you glide between Europe and Asia!
💲Price: Starting at S$16+ (dependent on ticket/package type)
Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar
You’ve checked off some of the main tourist-y spots! It’s time for the vibrant Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar – the real heart of Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest markets in the world – a playground for those who love to haggle and discover hidden gems. Meanwhile, the Spice Bazaar (also known as the Egyptian Bazaar) is a treat for the senses, selling dried fruits and nuts, sweets, and more – in addition to fresh, fragrant spices, of course. The scent and colourful mounds of saffron, teas, and Turkish delights will tempt you, even if you’re just window shopping!
The buzzing atmosphere is already something to take in and makes the bazaars worth the visit! I recommend grabbing at least some jewellery or a little souvenir (but I bet you’ll leave with more), so set aside some money for your purchases.
But stay alert! As enticing as the bazaars may be, tourists are often targeted with scams. You may encounter vendors selling counterfeit items and passing them off as luxury goods. Overly friendly sellers may also be red flags, offering deals that might seem too good to be true – because they probably are!
Have a clear sense of your budget before entering negotiations, and trust your instincts if something feels off – always. Once you have that in mind, go ahead and get lost in the winding alleys of these bustling bazaars!
📍Locations:
⏰Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 8.30am to 7pm (Grand Bazaar)
- 8am to 7.30pm daily (Spice Bazaar)
Balat
Oh, speaking of places to get lost – I have to shout out Balat, one of Istanbul’s most colourful neighbourhoods. This district is known for its rainbow houses and quirky cafés, and makes for a leisurely afternoon stroll. This is where you bring out your cameras because you’ll want to snap some pics during this magical getaway. Be sure to take your time here for a sensory experience! Listen to the laughter and chatter spilling out from the roadside cafés, and smell their freshly brewed coffee and sweet pastries.
Beyond its colourful streets, Balat is also a historic melting pot of cultures! Fun fact – it was once home to Jewish, Greek and Armenian communities. So don’t be surprised if you stumble upon synagogues, churches, and other landmarks that hold traces of Balat’s past. And while you’re at it, stick your head into the vintage shops and art galleries in the alleyways! What a whimsical little world, indeed.
📍Location: 34087 Fatih/İstanbul
Chora Church/Kariye Mosque
Here’s another living canvas you can step into – the Chora Church, now turned into a mosque! It’s a bit off the beaten path but home to wondrous mosaics and frescoes. If you’re into more traditional, ancient art, you’ll want to snag a ticket for this one.
Initially a Byzantine church, every inch of the place is filled with captivating details, imagery, and vivid colours. Biblical scenes from the Old Testament are also depicted, and they seem to dance on the walls! It’s also a quieter, more intimate experience compared to other sites, so you can have a conversation with the past as the sounds of the outside world fade away. If you’re looking for a pocket to slow down away from the hustle-bustle during your trip, this is the place – and you’ll leave feeling incredibly humbled.
📍Location: Derviş Ali, Kariye Cami Sk. No:18, 34087 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
💲Price: S$32.85+ (for skip-the-line ticket online)
⏰ Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm
Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
Want a change from the Ottoman splendour? If you adore museums like me, pop into the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art. With your ticket, you’ll get a dose of Turkey’s contemporary art scene. It’s a pretty cool contrast to the historical sights and houses a vast collection of photography, designs, architecture, new media, and cinema.
Walking in will have you immediately struck by the sleek, modern design of this space – a refreshing break for your eyes! The TikTok above is just a sneak peek of the cutting-edge installations that push the boundaries of art. They’re no joke! There’s also a restaurant and a cafe, so you can satisfy your hungry tummy after ogling at the works and walk out feeling both inspired and energised.
📍Location: Kılıçali Paşa, Tophane İskele Cd. No:1/1, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
💲Price: S$25 (Regular), S$15+ (Students + Elderly aged 65 and above)
⏰Opening Hours:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: 10am to 6pm
- Friday: 10am to 8pm
Day Trips
I know some of you are the type who like to explore beyond the obvious, so if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, may I interest you in some unforgettable day trip ideas? Here are some gems just begging to be explored!
Bursa
Take Bursa, for instance – a charming city once the Ottoman Empire’s very first capital. It’s just a breezy ferry ride (a treat in itself) from Istanbul’s Yenikapı port, costing less than S$20! Once you arrive, you can hop on a bus to get around.
While you’re in Bursa, be sure to visit the quaint neighbourhood of Cumalıkızık, a UNESCO World Heritage village tucked at the foot of the Uludağ mountain. One step into this village, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time – with its rustic countryside charm and cobblestone streets. Every corner is a photo op! It’s quite the fairytale escape if you’re looking for something picturesque and peaceful.
The Uludağ mountain is also home to nature’s own spa – mineral-rich thermal baths – courtesy of its past life as an extinct volcano. If you’re looking to warm up, unwind, and recharge with a therapeutic experience, soak in these blissful natural hot springs and let your stress melt away. And if you’re up for some action after, the Uludağ, standing at 2,543 metres, is dubbed the “Snow Paradise” for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding!
Şile
If you’re looking for a completely different feel altogether, I reckon you might fancy a short bus ride from Istanbul to the seaside town of Şile – known for its rugged cliffs and cinematic coastal views. And you can’t miss out on the lighthouse here. It’s perched in the best place to feast your eyes on the phenomenal scenery! As the sea stretches out endlessly before your eyes, you’ll feel both alive and at peace. I can almost hear the seagulls calling!
If it gets too chilly, you can cosy up in one of the seaside restaurants and get some hot drinks (a Turkish tea, perhaps?) with a hearty meal. Oh, and did I mention? For the not-so-faint of hearts, there’s a 450-metre-long zipline that will have you soaring over the Black Sea for a dose of thrill!
Food
With all that wandering, you’ll need to refuel, won’t you? Lucky for you, Turkey’s food scene is nothing short of a gastronomic paradise – with everything from traditional Turkish street food to scenic rooftop dining experiences. Here are some of my favourite recommendations in the areas we’ve discussed; they’ll have your taste buds singing!
Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop
Feeling peckish near the Hagia Sophia or the Topkapi Palace? This rooftop restaurant, Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop, is a stone’s throw away, and you won’t have to compromise on the sights and sounds! Situated near The Blue Mosque, you’ll enjoy your meal with a backdrop straight out of a postcard. And the way it lights up at night is almost heavy. Their menu is as impressive as their views – packed with dishes that will tickle your taste buds.
Need some suggestions? What’s a trip to Turkey without trying the kebab? You can’t go wrong with that! Or maybe the Şakşuka? It’s a savoury vegetable medley with various spices, typically made with ingredients like eggplant, zucchini, potatoes and tomatoes, and sautéed in olive oil before simmering in a tangy tomato sauce. And if you’re in the mood for something lighter, their Greek salad is a great choice! They’ve got seafood and vegetarian options too. Whatever you decide, save room for dessert; their baklava is the cherry on top you need!
📍Location: Sultan Ahmet, Torun Sk. no : 3 D:101, 34400 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
⏰ Opening Hours: 11am to 11.30pm (Opens at 6pm on Wednesdays)
Visorante Kitchen & Bar Ortaköy
Remember the sunset cruise I mentioned? How about pre-gaming at the Visorante Kitchen & Bar Ortaköy overlooking the Bosphorus? In a place with such intricate, fanciful decor serving fantastic cocktails, the ambience sure is a romantic way to start the night.
And their food doesn’t disappoint either! Visorante’s menu features an impeccable array of Italian dishes, from pasta to risotto to pizzas full of flavour and freshness. As always, don’t skip dessert – their creamy tiramisu is a must! You’ll feel like royalty as you dine on these finger-licking good dishes. This restaurant does require reservations, however, so keep that in mind if you’re coordinating your dinner plans with your cruise booking!
📍Location: Ortaköy, Dereboyu Cd. No:10, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
⏰ Opening Hours: 12pm to 1am (Opens at 10am on weekends)
Hocapaşa Pidecisi (Eminönü District)
You’re in luck if you find yourself hungry after your time in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar! They’re located in the Eminönü District – a hotspot for popular street foods that are inexpensive, filling, and delicious!
For something traditional, how about some mouth-watering pide (Turkish pizza) for lunch at Hocapaşa Pidecisi? The pide typically has a crispy crust topped with flavourful minced meat, fresh veggies, and melted cheese to make your palate happy. You’ll be craving this stuff after you try it!
📍Location: Hoca Paşa, Ankara Caddesi & Hoca Paşa Sokak No:11, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
⏰ Opening Hours: 12pm to 7pm
İSKENDER Tarihi Ahşap Dükkan
If you venture into Bursa, you’ll want to feast on one of Turkey’s most beloved dishes – the İskender kebab, also known as the Bursa kebab or the Uludağ kebab. İSKENDER Tarihi Ahşap Dükkan is a popular place to have this, with great ratings to back it up! One bite, and you’ll understand why this comfort food has such a cult following.
The rich İskender kebab typically consists of tender slices of lamb charred to perfection and generously smothered in a luscious tomato purée and yoghurt, all resting on a bed of buttery pita. So try it – it’s like fireworks of flavour in your mouth!
📍Location: Kayhan, Ünlü Cd. No:7, 16010 Osmangazi̇/Bursa, Türkiye
⏰ Opening Hours: 11am to 9pm
Fusha Şile
If seafood’s more your jam, you won’t find any shortage in Şile! But I’m particularly loving Fusha Şile, nestled on the beach with spectacular vistas of the sparkling waters. Dig into various Mediterranean dishes as you listen to the waves crash and feel the gentle winds in your hair without a care in the world!
What caught my eye was Fusha Şile’s menu itself – just look at it; it’s got me drooling! The bright colours and tastefully arranged assortment have me yearning to sink my teeth in! From a classic Turkish Breakfast to fresh seafood, there’s a diverse range of options. Personally, I’m eyeing the super-juicy burgers!
📍Location: Balibey, Fener Cd. No:3, 34980 Şile/İstanbul, Türkiye
⏰ Opening Hours: 9.30am to 1am (closes at midnight on Sundays)
Happie Balat Coffee
While in the rainbow neighbourhood of Balat, you’ll find plenty of food! It’s the quaint cafés, especially, that have my heart. But my special mention today will have to be Happie Balat Coffee. It’s just as Instagram-worthy as the rest of Balat, with its colourful crêpes! Sweet and savoury options are available, and the colouring is all natural – with ingredients like beet, cocoa, and spinach. How fun is that?
I know I’ll be going for the pink savoury crêpe with fluffy scrambled egg, smoked turkey, and cream cheese for a velvety touch. Not too heavy, but filling; these crêpes aren’t just pretty to look at!
📍Location: Balat, Hızır Çavuş Köprübaşı Sk. no:43/A, 34087 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
⏰ Opening Hours:
- Monday: 11am to 5 pm
- Tuesday to Thursday: 9am to 7.30pm
- Friday to Sunday: 9am to 8pm
Tips to Save Money
Travelling in Turkey doesn’t have to break the bank! With a few smart moves, you can easily cut down on expenses while still enjoying all the sights and experiences this country has to offer. Here are some money-saving tips that’ll help you make the most of your time in Istanbul and spend on what really matters!
1. Get an Istanbulkart
The Istanbulkart is a handy little transportation card that covers all your public transport needs – buses, ferries, and more – for a couple of bucks. It’ll save you tons when getting around!
2. Take the Ferries
Not only does taking the ferries in Istanbul offer amazing views of the city, it’s hands-down one of the best (and cheapest) ways to travel. Keep in mind that they can get crowded during rush hour, as they’re frequently used by locals as well.
3. Travel Off-Season
Winter, from December to February, is a great time to visit Turkey for lower rates and great deals. Hotels will be discounted, and you won’t have to deal with the typical tourist crowds. And the season’s around the corner, too!
4. Carry a YouTrip Card and Some Cash
A YouTrip card will help you make efficient payments in Turkish Lira every day. Still, it’s also wise to carry some cash in Euros since many places in Turkey also accept the currency – especially in tourist areas!
And there you have it! Now you’re equipped with some knowledge and essentials to best experience Turkey this winter. Feel free to customise your activities, explore new ones, or play by ear, depending on your mood and the weather. Rest assured, this trip will leave you with memories you’ll hold onto for life. The more I think about it, the more I’m itching to hop on a plane tomorrow!
So, are you feeling it? Have I convinced you to go on your next adventure? Turkey’s calling – pack your bags, grab your camera, and book your tickets now!
Visuals Courtesy of Gizem B, Musa Ortac, and Andrew Schwark via Pexels.
