Istanbul: It’s impossible to fully experience this amazing and enormous city, or even touch on a part of its rich history in just two days. But let’s show you what you can see on a weekend trip, a weekend you’ll always remember.
The Galata Bridge is where the two sides of Istanbul come together. It’s always busy with people, full of different smells and colors. You’ll see women with shopping bags, kids running around, and tourists snapping photos of the stunning views. Minarets and mosques are visible everywhere. Fishermen and locals often respond to the camera clicks with quiet contemplation. Below the bridge, you can enjoy a fish sandwich (balik ekmek) while relaxing and watching the Galata Tower. It’s a moment where you truly realize that this bridge connects the old and new parts of the city.
Getting from Ataturk Airport to Taksim Square is an adventure in itself, offering nearly all forms of transportation – all of which are top-notch. Through the subway windows, the first images appear: antennas, monuments, blocks of buildings, and charming slums built with steps and vibrant colors. As the tunnel curves to the western shore of the Golden Horn, you’ll enter the central districts of Sultanahmet, Eminönü, and Fatih. After checking into your hotel, hop on the tram for a downtown tour where you’ll get your first captivating glimpse of the city.
Wander through the streets lined with dairies, shop windows, and sweet shops, and let yourself be led to the famous Spice Market (Misir Carsi). From there, effortlessly continue to the Covered Market (Kapali Carsi), full of thousands of shops and small cafes inviting you in for Turkish coffee or tea. Nearby, you’ll see the Blue Mosque where you can watch locals preparing to pray. The call to prayer from the Imam is a captivating experience that affects the entire area.
For nightlife, head to the vertical streets of Istiklal, filled with bars and stylish cafes. Here, you can enjoy a Yeni Raki with friendly locals who will gladly invite you to join them. Outdoor tables are busy regardless of the weather. Many places offer stand-up comedy, live concerts, or shows on the second floors. If you hear music coming from Mojo, don’t hesitate to go in.
At the end of the main street is Tünel Beyoğlu, a funky and traditional meeting point with charming bistros and alcohol-free cocktails. The Gallery of Flowers (Çiçek Pasajı) is nearby, featuring delicious pastries with a touch of Parisian Art Nouveau that hark back to the city’s past. Walk a bit further to reach Cihangir Beyoğlu, where the smell of Turkish cuisine fills the air and your senses guide you to Ara Café. With black and white patterned walls, Ara offers sultac (a type of rice pudding), but don’t leave without trying a Sigara Boregi (a pastry filled with cheese and potato). Finally, treat yourself one last time at Savoy pastry shop, just a few steps away.
Enjoy your unforgettable weekend in Istanbul!