Istanbul

26 Dec, 2023

I visited Istanbul for a 4-day layover vacation in December 2023. Here are some brief notes on what you can do (and what to avoid) if you find yourself in Istanbul:

1. It's best to visit the mosques in the morning. You'll avoid the crowd and long lines, and it's much more peaceful.

2. Don't bother with the Bosphorus cruise. Instead, use the Istanbul Municipality Ferry from Eminonu to Kadikoy and Kadikoy to Uskudar. It's much cheaper and you can do it at your own pace.

3. Split Your Stay -- stay in the old city (Sultanahmet) and also in the hippier parts of the city (either Galata/Karakoy or Kadikoy). It gives a balanced experience of Istanbul. I stayed at Hostel Le Banc and Cheers Hostel.

4. You absolutely shouldn't miss the Suleymaniye Mosque and Hagia Sophia. They are both really breathtaking.

5. Try these must-have vegetarian Turkish dishes - Cig Kofta, Pide, Gozleme, Menemen, Baklava, Kunefe with ice cream, and Lentil soup. They're delicious!