Excursions in Istanbul

Several places worth visiting in Istanbul:

Hagia Sophia: a unique building, holding traces of Byzantine and Ottoman history.

Blue Mosque: One of the symbols of the city with its architecture and atmosphere.

Topkapi Palace: the residential palace of the Ottoman sultans and imperial treasures.

Basilica Cistern: a historic reservoir with a mysterious atmosphere.

Grand Bazaar: the oldest and largest shopping center in the world.

Spice Bazaar: a paradise for lovers of spices, Turkish delicacies, and souvenirs.

Galata Tower: a viewpoint for a panoramic view of Istanbul.

Taksim Square and Istiklal Street: the center of modern Istanbul, places for shopping and dining.

Dolmabahçe Palace: a palace reflecting the splendor of the last period of the Ottoman Empire.

Bosporus Cruise: a journey across the unique Bosporus of Istanbul, connecting two continents.

Ortaköy: a popular neighborhood with cafes and restaurants overlooking the Bosporus.

Süleymaniye Mosque: one of the most significant creations of Mimar Sinan, an impressive building.

Rumeli Fortress: a historical fortress located at the narrowest point of the Bosporus.

This list features key points where you can get acquainted with the rich history, culture, and modern life of Istanbul. Each of them offers visitors unforgettable moments due to their unique characteristics.

The best panoramic views of Istanbul can be seen in the following places:

Galata Tower: Here you can see the historic peninsula and the Bosphorus from a bird's eye view.

Pierre Loti Café: Located in Eyüp, it offers a magnificent view of the Golden Horn and old Istanbul.

Çamlıca Hill: A vast panorama of Istanbul, encompassing both Europe and Asia.

Rumeli Hisari: In a unique intersection point of the Bosphorus, enjoy the view accompanied by a historical atmosphere.

Sapphire Observation Deck: You can observe the city and the sea of Istanbul from the height of a modern structure.

Üsküdar (Around the Maiden's Tower): The view of the Maiden's Tower and the surrounding Bosphorus offers unforgettable impressions.

Istanbul, with its historical features and modern production capabilities, is the filming location for many popular historical series. Here are some Turkish historical series shot in Istanbul:

Magnificent Century: A big-budget production about Suleiman the Magnificent and his court life.

Payitaht: Abdülhamid: A series about the life of Sultan Abdulhamid II and the last periods of the Ottoman Empire.

Diriliş: Ertuğrul: A TV series shedding light on the founding period of the Ottoman Empire, mainly shot in studios in Istanbul.

Kuruluş Osman: Resurrection: A continuation of the series "Ertuğrul," telling the story of the foundation of the Ottoman Empire.

Fatih: A historiographical series about the conquest of Istanbul by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror.

These series are examples that reflect the unique atmosphere and historical places of Istanbul on screen.

We present to you the Michelin-starred restaurants in Istanbul, along with their brief descriptions:

⭐⭐⭐ 2 Michelin stars
Turk Fatih Tutak - A prestigious restaurant where chef Fatih Tutak showcases modern Turkish cuisine. He utilizes traditional flavors with innovative techniques.

⭐ 1 Michelin star
Neolokal - The eco-friendly cuisine of chef Maksut Aşkar adds modern touches to traditional Anatolian dishes.

Mikla - A stylish restaurant where you can try innovative and modern dishes of Turkish cuisine under the guidance of chef Mehmet Gürs.

Nicole - A special place in a historic building, combining Mediterranean cuisine with modern presentations.

Araka - A restaurant with light and creative flavors and a menu inspired by nature, led by chef Zeynep Pınar Taşdemir.

Recommended restaurants in the Michelin guide

Cuma - A restaurant offering modern Turkish cuisine in an intimate and cozy atmosphere.

Karaköy Lokantası - A restaurant serving traditional Ottoman and Turkish dishes in an elegant setting.

Aheste - An elegant restaurant known for its appetizers and creative cuisine.

Tershane Restaurant - A Michelin-recommended place where seafood meets traditional Turkish cuisine.

Pandeli - A well-known restaurant located at the Spice Bazaar, famous for its historical ambiance and serving classic Turkish dishes.

These restaurants with rich cuisine in Istanbul offer high-class gastronomic experiences.

Popular yacht excursion routes on the Bosphorus in Istanbul:

1. Short Bosphorus Cruise (average route - 2-3 hours)
📍 Departure: Kabatas, Besiktas, or Eminonu.
📍 Route: Dolmabahçe Palace → Ortaköy Mosque → Rumeli Hisarı → Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge → Anadolu Hisarı → Kuleli Military School → Üsküdar
📍 Return: Return to the departure point

Highlights: Iconic structures of the Bosphorus, historical mansions, passing under bridges

2. Long Bosphorus Tour (full route - 5-6 hours)
📍 Departure: Eminonu, Kabatas, or Besiktas
📍 Route: Ortaköy → Bebek → Rumeli Hisarı → Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge → Anadolu Kavağı (short break) → Yoros Castle → Exit to the Black Sea
📍 Return: Return via the same route

Highlights: A blend of natural and historical experiences towards the northern points of the Bosphorus

3. Sunset and Evening Cruise (romantic route - 2-3 hours)
📍 Departure: Bebek, Kabatas, or Ortaköy
📍 Route: Ortaköy → Maiden's Tower → light show on the Bosphorus Bridge → Kandilli → Çengelköy → Beylerbeyi Palace
📍 Return: Return to the departure point

Highlights: Delightful views of Istanbul at sunset and illuminated historical buildings

4. Special Route to the Islands (Princes' Islands - 6 hours)
📍 Departure: Kabatas or Besiktas
📍 Route: Maiden's Tower → Moda Beach → Büyükada → Heybeliada → Burgazada → Kınalıada
📍 Return: Return via the same route

Highlights: Historical mansions of the islands, nature views, and swimming

Each route offers different experiences, so you can choose according to your preferences!