With a population of 13 million people, Istanbul is Europe’s biggest city and one of the largest in the world. You could be forgiven for thinking Turkey’s cultural and financial hub was the countries capital city, when in fact it is actually Ankara – with a population less than half.
Istanbul is however the countries heart and is the only city in the world to span across two continents.
Home to more than 20 beaches and pulsing European nightlife it’s no wonder it’s been labelled one of the world’s ‘hippest cities’.
Istanbul Information
Population: Approx. 12,782,960
Time Zone: UTC +3
Languages: Turkish (official), Kurdish, Arabic
Currency: Turkish Lira
Currency Exchange: Purchase your Turkish Lira cash and travellers cheques before you leave Australia
Istanbul Climate
A typical Mediterranean climate, Istanbul experiences long hot summers and cold wet winters. Summer temperatures range between 17°C (63° F) and 27°C (81° F), although the humidity can make it feel much warmer. Winter temperatures drop to around 4°C (39°F) overnight and 10°C (50°F) during the day. The heaviest rainfall usually occurs in December with averages recorded around 124mm. June is traditionally the driest with 34mm.
Istanbul Airport
Name: Istanbul Ulasim
Website: http://www.istanbul-ulasim.com.tr/default.asp
Partner Airline: Etihad Airways
Car Rental:Mates rates on all car hire with our preferred partners
Around Istanbul
The Sultanahmed or Blue Mosque is one of the world’s most recognisable structures. Built between 1609 and 1616 it attracts thousands of people each day but closes to tourists during the five daily prayers. There are no entrance fees but donations towards it’s preservation are greatly appreciated.
Turkish bath houses or hamam are designed as centres of relaxation. Traditionally set in stone buildings, temperatures inside are warm thanks to the hedonistic blend of steam rooms, pools and massage areas. As well as a number of traditional bath houses to explore in the city, many luxury hotels now built their own version of the traditional hammam – just with a modern twist.
Istanbul is home to the golden mile of super clubs. Couture-clad internationals and well heeled locals flock to the open air restaurants and rooftop bars, eager to be seen on Friday and Saturday nights. Talented mixologists combine with the breathtaking views make for a hazy celebration to the days end. Visit Reina and toast to the beautiful city with champagne mojitos and basil margaritas. Once the sun goes down, expect some of the world’s most renowned djs to be spinning the wheel until the early hours - a justified one-off expense. Find them at Muallim Naci Caddesi 44.
Surrounding Area
Visit Gallipoli and you can walk historical battlefields, see tunnels and trenches and honour the memory of those who lost their lives in World War I. The memorial and museum offers a sobering but incredibly interesting look at the regions historical events. A long day trip or more manageable overnight stay can be arranged through one of the local tour providers. If you have the time, it’s an absolute must.
Hotel Ipek Palas
4 Star Property
The hotel Ipek Palas is located in the area of Sirkeci, within walking distance from the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and many historical monuments. It offers comfortable rooms beautifully decorated and air-conditioned with continental breakfast included, free Wireless Internet access in the lobby and a personalised service.
Pierre Loti Hotel
4 Star Property
Pierre Loti Hotel is located in Sultanahmet area, within walking distance of such historical and major city sights as St. Sophia, The Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and The Grand Bazaar. The rooms are well designed and arranged with comfortable furnishings. Decoration is in keeping with modern Turkish styles and provides a warm atmosphere to retreat to at the end of a busy day in a very vibrant city.
The Home Suites & Spa
5 Star Property
The Home Suites & Spa-Istanbul is a renovated old town house, furnished like a comfortable stylish home, facing the Marmara Sea and Little Hagia Sophia.
Barcelo Eresin Topkapi
4 Star Property
Located in the in the old city of Istanbul, this elegant hotel overlooks the city walls. The most important landmarks and the Grand Bazaar are only 10 minutes away by the modern tram which stops next to the hotel. It offers a wide selection of modern and comfortable guestrooms. One of the main attractions of the hotel is its health club with heated indoor pool.
Antis Hotel
4 Star Property
Situated in the heart of Istanbul's historic district, just steps from the Blue Mosque, Antis Hotel offers elegant accommodation and beautiful views of the Marmara Sea from its rooftop terrace. The guest rooms at Antis Hotel are tastefully decorated and appointed with quality linens. Benefit from modern amenities, including LCD TV and free wireless internet access. After a day of sightseeing or meetings, relax on the rooftop terrace and enjoy a drink.
Eresin Crown Hotel
5 Star Property
This luxury 5-star hotel is located in Sultanahmet, the centre of Istanbul's historic area, close to many tourist, business, entertainment and shopping areas. The hotel is situated near the coast and close to the famous Hagia Sophia. The elegant rooms and suites provide a relaxing and comfortable base for your stay in this historic city.
Dining
More than 30 seafood restaurants line the streets of the pedestrian only area of Kumkapi. With the fish market just footsteps away you can guarantee the food is fresh and with so many vendors competing for your business, the prices under control. Yengec restaurant (rumoured to be the areas best) prides itself on its attentive service, lively atmosphere and of course, quality seafood. The menu consists of traditionally themed hot and cold meze (starters) and mains of whole baked fish, lobster, shrimp and crab. Capacity increases over summer as restaurants in the area open up their outdoor dining areas but it’s still a good idea to book.
If opulent surrounds and traditional Turkish cuisine is high on your list of gastronomic priorities then you simply cannot go past the slow cooked lamb with aubergine at the Kohyali Kanyon restaurant. The interior of this fourth generation family restaurant is a well balanced fusion of traditional Turkish and modern design.
A second restaurant Konyali at the Topkapi Palace was created by the family in the 1960s to showcase the regions cuisine, with presidents and British royals dining inside the palatial interior. There’s also a deck with magnificent views which is a memorable spot to dine from during the warmer months. Located at Buyukdere Cad. No:185 K:1 Levent and Topkapi Palace Museum Sultanahmet respectively.
Tucked behind the Blue Mosque, the right of passage Mesale cafe has been drawing tourists for years and is simply too kitsch to miss. Find a spot along one of its cushioned wooden benches and savour Turkey’s national drink, tea. Sample the apple, lemon or sour cherry as you try your hand at the hookah, a large floor based pipe filled with nargileh, a type of tobacco. Be on the lookout for an impromptu Turkish music performance which only adds to the experience.
Shopping
The Grand Bazaar is the oldest covered market in the world and a must see cultural experience. With more than 4000 stores selling everything from hand painted ceramics, leather and suede to gold, silver, copper and brass you’re sure to find something special. There’s also a great selection of silk and cotton slippers, clothes, cushions and fabric, making it the perfect spot to pick up some light-weight gifts for friends and family at home.
While in the market area, pay a visit to the Spice Bazaar. Walk past hundreds of stalls with baskets filled with earthy colours and fragrances of cooking spice, dried herbs, medicinals and dried fruit – a sensory overload and photographers dream.
For retail therapy of a more serious nature, Istanbul is home to numerous modern shopping centres, including Europe’s largest, Cevahir Mall. With more than 340 stores spanning across four levels it’s a great place to access global brands like Topshop, Zara and Nine West. If you’re a dedicated luxury-brand fan, then Istinye Park is for you.
For those looking to bag a bargain Istanbul is home to almost a dozen outlet shopping malls offering every brand imaginable at up to 70 per cent off.
