22hrs in Istanbul

December 2019-January 2020

If you've been wanting to visit or have visited Istanbul, it is safe to say that even a week is not enough to experience the buzzing Turkish capital's rich history, culture, and beauty. The "City of Two Continents," straddling Europe and Asia is divided by the Bosphorus channel, stretching approximately 31km. Istanbul is a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, as the city reflects influences from the past around every corner.

Turkish Airlines often schedules long layovers in the capital city. During my voyage to and from Bangladesh, I encountered two long layovers, for which I decided to spend some time outside of the airport (hence the title of this post). I seek to share some pivotal spots worth visiting during short stays including insta-worthy locations, entertainment, and shopping, as well as some alternative destinations to squeeze in. Unfortunately, as much as I love history and was surrounded by open-air ancient influences from the Ottoman, Roman, Byzantine, and Egyptian empires, I found it unjust to pursue a full city tour in such a short time. Nevertheless, Turkey requires multiple visits due to its infinite attractions. I hope to return to a remarkable city again soon.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.

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Before You Go:

1. Transfer. It is first important to note that there are several airports in Istanbul (most international flights located in New Airport (IST)). New Airport, Istanbul, is located approximately 42km (50 min) from the heart of Old Town or the Bosphorus strait. The cost of a taxi, thus, is hefty. Although local transport is significantly cheaper, the travel time by bus is two hours, thus not recommended especially if traveling for a short period. I booked my transfer from GetTransfer. This company works internationally and is safe and reliable. The company is essentially like an Uber, however, must be booked at least 24hrs prior to travel to connect with nearby drivers. I have used the company in other places in Europe such as Dubrovnik and Brno. A private Mercedes limo in Istanbul cost me, 30 CAD, from IST to Old Town.

2. Baggage Storage. If you're traveling to and from IST (New Airport), there are two baggage storage locations in Arrivals (one near Exit 14, and one near Exit 8), just a floor below International Departures. The mapping is very convenient, however, the walks are long. I suggest leaving ample time to retrieve baggage before your flight. I was nervous about the storage as I had valuables (laptop, camera, LSAT books (*insert rolling eyes emoji), etc.) unlocked, however, everything was returned intact to me. It cost about 12 CAD per 24 hours.

3. Check the Weather. The weather in Turkey fluctuates extremely. My first ever visit to Istanbul was during the scorching heat of summer. This time around, I visited late December (12-14 degrees; pleasant, light coat required), and early January (-3; storms; almost colder than Toronto with windchills). Tours must be planned accordingly.

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23 December, 2019

16:00-3:30

1. Grand Bazaar

I arrived in Istanbul around 4 pm and booked my transport to my first stop at the Grand Bazaar located on the European side of Istanbul. I pre-mapped and estimated walking/driving distances between all the locations I wished to visit accordingly and made 7Hills Hotel (just around the corner of Blue Mosque or Sultan Ahmet) my landmark for pick-ups and drop-offs.

I recommend a visit to the Grand Bazaar during any or every trip to Istanbul as a tourist favourite. It is the largest bazaar in the world and covers approximately 60 streets, occupied by over 4,000 shops. The buzzing site resides in the historical centre and sells a variety of goods (best to master bargaining skills)!

During my visits, I normally end up adding to my household treasury collections. For instance, Turkish lamps, tea sets, ceramic mats, etc. The Grand Bazaar allows one to explore Turkish culture through art and architecture, whilst being able to take a token of what you see home.

I left the Grand Bazaar and headed to 7Hills Hotel around 6:30 pm. The walk was about 20min and very pleasant as it led through the Blue Mosque park! Traveling solo in Istanbul was very safe, especially given that it was dark. The Turkish people were very kind. If a stranger tells you it is custom to take you home to serve you tea, it's probs best to decline, but completely safe to trust directions and have them take your photos!

2. Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

The Bosphorus Dinner Cruise driver picked me up from 7 Hills Hotel around 7:30 pm. The dinner cruise was a highlight of my time in Istanbul. It offered a guide through the Bosphorus strait, followed by live cultural entertainment including folk and belly dancing. A must-do during your visit. The Cruise also served an exquisite three-course meal (traditional Turkish dishes), and unlimited drinks. I was blessed to have my cousins who reside in Istanbul join me for the cruise. Everyone on the cruise was very friendly, I'd recommend for solo and group travellers!

Above are some sublime architecture we sailed passed and the boat that sailed us. Below are are my cousins, Sania, Safia, and I. Note: We got an exceptional table (close to the centre of the performances and near window) upon request prior to Cruise date!

The Cruise was three hours and ended around 11 pm. I headed to the airport around 12 am and got there with an hour to spare. Although road traffic and airport crowd at this time was low, I recommend leaving enough time given the airport is large and requires strenuous walking from Arrivals up to International Departures.

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7 January, 2020

5:00-15:30

3. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet)

Upon my return to Toronto, my flight in Istanbul landed around 5 am. I decided to head to Blue Mosque for "Fajr" (morning prayer at dawn). During prayer times, Sultan Ahmet or Blue Mosque is closed for tourism and open to all for "jammat" (assembly for payer). The Blue Mosque was built during the 15th Century by Sultan Ahmet I, complimented by Hagia Sofia residing right across. The architecture is one of the most phenomenal Ottoman buildings in Turkey and is a must-see attraction when in Istanbul.

Unfortunately, the month of January is occupied by a monstrous tempest. I had much planned for the day including pursuit to squeeze in two tours (Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern); as well as making two hidden insta-worthy spots (7 Hills and Kubbe). However, I had gotten completely drenched from the raging storm and only made it to Blue Mosque and 7 Hills thankfully for the proximity. Nevertheless, it was an incredible experience!

Why Blue? There are two rationales: first, the interior of Sultan Ahmet is decorated with impressive blue Iznik tiles. Second, long ago, sailors saw the sparkling of the Marmara sea reflecting on the Mosque, hence its reference.

4. 7 Hills Restaurant Breakfast

I walked into 7 Hills Hotel drenched with a broken umbrella around 9 am. The hotel/rooftop restaurant is located just around the corner of the Blue Mosque Park (<3min walk). The restaurant offers three levels, all with exceptional views. I wished to sit on the roof, however, the wind would have surely blown me away during the storm. I still managed to have the waiter take a few photos swiftly.

"Breakfast for one, please...."

The restaurant is less crowded and offers incredible service. Due to the storm, they served me unlimited complimentary tea with my breakfast, and served me hot chocolate on the house as well.

My airport transfer picked me up from 7 Hills around 11:30 am. Despite there not being any road traffic, it took about 45min to arrive at the airport due to weather conditions, and another hour through immigration and security due to peak flight time and season.

For more highlights including videos, please follow my Instagram account dedicated to my travels @tmozammel.