Apex Hotel
The Apex Hotel is a Art Decor, Boutique, Business, Child Friendly, City hotel, Eco Friendly, Family Style, Heritage Building, Honeymoon, Leisure, Pet Friendly, Tourist, Traditional hotel. Located in Old City-Sultanahmet area. The nightlife/restaurants are within walking distance from the hotel.
Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour
4172
Best of Istanbul private tour pick up and drop off included
239
Taste of Two Continents: Istanbul Food Tour
1810
Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht
1194
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show with Private Table
434
All in One Day Istanbul - Historical Tour of Istanbul with Bosphorus Cruise
384
Cappadocia Dream - 2 Days Cappadocia Travel with Balloon Ride from/to Istanbul
145
ISTANBUL BEST Private Guided FullDay City Tour (CRUISEPORT-HOTEL)
357
Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Stopover on the Asian Side - (Morning or Afternoon)
919
2 Day All Inclusive Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Optional Balloon Flight
224
Taste of Two Continents: Istanbul Food Tour
1810
Istanbul Foodie Tour by Night: Traditional Meyhane & Street Foods
163
Traditional Turkish Dinner and Dervish Experience
21
Private and guided Istanbul food tour - Taste of Istanbul
151
Luxury Private and Guided Istanbul Food Tour
17
Guided Street Food tour. Breakfast in Europe Lunch in Asia.
27
PRIVATE Istanbul Food Tour - 10 Tastings including Raki & Padi
66
The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Istanbul: The 10 Tastings
322
Circle Istanbul (Extraordinary Istanbul)
345
Istanbul Fine Dining Afternoon in 3 Historic Venues Private Tour
6
Istanbul, the cultural capital of Turkey, is known for its vibrant festivals and events. The city hosts numerous celebrations throughout the year, such as the Istanbul Music Festival, which showcases classical and contemporary music performances. Other notable events include the Istanbul Biennial, an international contemporary art exhibition, and the Istanbul International Film Festival, featuring a diverse range of films from around the world.
Istanbul is a treasure trove of art and architectural wonders. The city's iconic landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, reflect its rich history and blend of influences from various civilizations. Istanbul is also home to numerous museums and art galleries, including the Istanbul Modern, showcasing contemporary Turkish art, and the Pera Museum, housing a diverse collection of artworks.
Istanbul's cuisine is a fusion of flavors from Turkish, Ottoman, and Mediterranean culinary traditions. From delicious street food like kebabs and dürüm wraps to Ottoman specialties like baklava and Turkish delight, the city offers a wide range of mouthwatering dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in a traditional Turkish breakfast (kahvaltı) or sip a cup of strong Turkish coffee.
When visiting Istanbul, it's helpful to be aware of Turkish etiquette and customs. Turkish people value hospitality and respect. It's common to greet others with a warm handshake and maintain eye contact during conversations. Modest dress is appreciated, particularly when visiting mosques or religious sites. It's customary to remove your shoes before entering homes or certain establishments, and it's polite to accept offers of tea or coffee as a sign of hospitality.
In conclusion, Istanbul offers a captivating cultural experience with its festivals, art and architecture, diverse cuisine, and warm hospitality. By embracing local customs, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage, and exploring the vibrant cityscape, you can fully enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of Istanbul.
Merhaba! (mer-ha-ba) - Hello!
Günaydın! (goo-nahy-dun) - Good morning!
İyi akşamlar! (ee-yee ak-sham-lar) - Good evening!
Hoşça kal! (hosh-cha-kal) - Goodbye!
Evet. (e-vet) - Yes.
Hayır. (ha-yuhr) - No.
Teşekkür ederim! (te-shek-kur e-de-rim) - Thank you!
Lütfen. (loot-fen) - Please.
Affedersiniz. (af-fe-der-si-niz) - Excuse me/sorry.
İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz? (een-gi-leez-je ko-noo-shoo-yor moos-oon-uz) - Do you speak English?
Nasılsınız? (na-suhl-suh-nuhz) - How are you?
İyiyim, teşekkür ederim. (ee-yee-yim, te-shek-kur e-de-rim) - I'm fine, thank you.
...nerede? (ner-e-deh) - Where is...?
...bulabilirim mi? (boo-la-bi-le-rim mee) - Can I find...?
Yardım eder misiniz? (yar-dum e-der mee-see-niz) - Can you help me?
Türkçe konuşuyor musunuz? (toork-je ko-noo-shoo-yor moos-oon-uz) - Do you speak Turkish?
Yardıma ihtiyacım var. (yar-duh-ma eet-ya-jum var) - I need help.
Bu ne kadar? (boo neh kah-dar) - How much is this?
Bir tavsiye verebilir misiniz? (beer tav-shee-ye ve-re-bi-leer mee-see-niz) - Can you give me a recommendation?
Bir masa, lütfen. (beer ma-sa, loot-fen) - A table, please.
Menüyü alabilir miyim? (me-nu-yu al-a-bi-leer mee-yim) - Can I have the menu?
...sipariş etmek istiyorum. (sip-a-rish et-mek is-tee-yo-rum) - I would like to order...
Bir bira, lütfen. (beer bi-ra, loot-fen) - One beer, please.
Hesap, lütfen. (he-sap, loot-fen) - The bill, please.
Vejetaryen seçenekleriniz var mı? (ve-je-ta-ryen se-che-nek-le-riz var mı) - Do you have vegetarian options?
Kayboldum. (kay-bol-dum) - I am lost.
Nereye gidiyorum? (ne-re-ye gi-di-yo-rum) - Where am I going?
Sağa dönün. (sa-a don-oon) - Turn right.
Sola dönün. (so-la don-oon) - Turn left.
Dümdüz gidin. (dum-dooz gi-din) - Go straight ahead.
Bana haritada gösterebilir misiniz? (ba-na ha-ri-ta-da gos-te-re-bi-leer mee-see-niz) - Can you show me on the map?
Plaja/şehir merkezine nasıl giderim? (pla-ja/she-hir mer-ke-zi-ne na-suhl gi-de-rim) - How do I get to the beach/city center?
Taksi bulabilir miyim? (tak-si boo-la-bi-leer mee-yim) - Can I find a taxi?
Yardım! (yar-dum) - Help!
Yaralandım. (yar-a-lan-dum) - I am injured.
Polisi/ambulansı çağırın. (po-li-si/am-bu-lan-suh cha-geer-in) - Call the police/ambulance.
En yakın hastane nerede? (en ya-kin has-ta-ne ner-e-de) - Where is the nearest hospital?
Çantamı/pasaportumu kaybettim. (chan-ta-mi/pa-sa-por-tu-mu kay-bet-tim) - I lost my bag/passport.
En yakın eczaneyi nerede bulabilirim? (en ya-kin ech-za-ne-yi ner-e-de boo-la-bi-leer-im) - Where can I find the nearest pharmacy?
İyi hissetmiyorum. (ee-yee his-set-mee-yo-rum) - I don't feel well.
Istanbul, the vibrant metropolis bridging Europe and Asia, is a captivating city that boasts a rich blend of cultures, history, and stunning architecture. With its iconic landmarks, bustling markets, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, Istanbul offers a unique and enchanting experience for visitors.
Istanbul, with its rich history, cultural heritage, vibrant markets, and warm hospitality, offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. Whether you're exploring historical landmarks, immersing in local culture, savoring Turkish cuisine, indulging in shopping sprees, or cruising along the Bosphorus, Istanbul will leave you with lasting memories.
Savor slices of succulent marinated meat, usually lamb or chicken, cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in a warm pita bread or dürüm wrap.
Indulge in layers of flaky pastry filled with nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup, creating a rich and delectable Turkish dessert.
Taste tiny dumplings filled with seasoned ground meat, often served with garlic yogurt and drizzled with melted butter and paprika.
Enjoy thin and crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices, creating a flavorful Turkish "pizza."
Delight in layers of thin filo pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat, baked until golden and crispy.
Experience the Turkish tea culture with black tea brewed in a special teapot and served in small tulip-shaped glasses.
Quench your thirst with Ayran, a refreshing yogurt-based drink mixed with water and a pinch of salt, perfect for cooling down during hot days.
Taste Turkey's national alcoholic drink, an anise-flavored spirit, often consumed by diluting it with water and sipping it slowly.
Enjoy a warm and comforting beverage made from orchid tubers, mixed with milk, sugar, and cinnamon, commonly consumed in colder months.
Savor traditional Turkish cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the Golden Horn at this renowned restaurant located in Eminönü.
Experience a modern twist on Turkish meze and comfort food at this popular and trendy restaurant in the Karaköy neighborhood.
Discover the flavors of Anatolian cuisine at this well-known restaurant in Kadıköy, offering a wide variety of regional dishes.
Located on the rooftop of the Marmara Pera Hotel, Mikla offers a fusion of Turkish and Scandinavian flavors, combined with breathtaking views of Istanbul.
Visit this historic restaurant near the Blue Mosque for delicious Turkish köfte (meatballs) and traditional Ottoman-style dishes.
Explore the vibrant and historic Grand Bazaar, where you'll find a wide range of spices, Turkish delights, dried fruits, and other food products.
Visit the lively Kadıköy Market on the Asian side of Istanbul, offering fresh produce, seafood, spices, and a variety of street food options.
Discover the trendy neighborhood of Beyoğlu, home to bustling Istiklal Avenue, where you'll find a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors.
Stroll through the charming streets of Karaköy, known for its vibrant food scene, with a mix of traditional eateries, modern restaurants, and trendy cafes.
Istanbul offers a rich culinary heritage with a fusion of flavors from the Middle East, Mediterranean, and Central Asia. From mouthwatering kebabs to delectable pastries, the city's diverse food scene will captivate your taste buds and leave you craving for more.Synonymous with: Historic landmarks, Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, cultural heritage.
Why visit: Sultanahmet is the historic heart of Istanbul and home to many iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural marvels of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. The district also offers a vibrant bazaar experience in the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar, where visitors can shop for traditional goods, spices, and Turkish delights.
Synonymous with: Modern entertainment, art galleries, lively nightlife.
Why visit: Beyoğlu is a dynamic district known for its modern entertainment and cultural scene. Istiklal Avenue, the district's main thoroughfare, is lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can explore the lively atmosphere, attend live performances at renowned theaters, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Beyoğlu's trendy bars and clubs.
Synonymous with: Bohemian vibe, local markets, culinary delights.
Why visit: Kadıköy is a vibrant and bohemian district located on the Asian side of Istanbul. It offers a lively street market experience in Kadıköy Market, where visitors can find fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. The district is known for its diverse culinary scene, with numerous restaurants and street food stalls offering a variety of Turkish and international cuisines. Kadıköy also has a relaxed atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Synonymous with: Sports, waterfront promenade, lively cafes.
Why visit: Beşiktaş is a vibrant district situated along the Bosphorus, known for its sports culture and lively waterfront area. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Beşiktaş Promenade, take in panoramic views of the Bosphorus, and relax in one of the district's many cafes and restaurants. Beşiktaş is also home to the Vodafone Park Stadium, where fans can experience the excitement of Turkish football matches.
Synonymous with: Asian side charm, historic mosques, serene atmosphere.
Why visit: Üsküdar is a district located on the Asian side of Istanbul, offering a more serene and local experience. The district is known for its historic mosques, such as Mihrimah Sultan Mosque and Yeni Valide Mosque, which showcase beautiful Ottoman architecture. Visitors can explore the local markets, stroll along the waterfront promenade, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from Çamlıca Hill.
Synonymous with: Bosphorus views, Ottoman architecture, vibrant market.
Why visit: Ortaköy is a picturesque district situated along the Bosphorus, known for its stunning views and Ottoman architecture. The district is home to the famous Ortaköy Mosque, which stands as a symbol of Istanbul's skyline. Visitors can explore the vibrant Ortaköy Market, filled with local crafts, artwork, and food stalls. The waterfront area offers a scenic setting to enjoy a meal or relax in one of the many cafes.
Istanbul's diverse districts each offer unique experiences, from historic landmarks and cultural heritage to modern entertainment and local charm. Exploring these districts allows visitors to delve into the vibrant tapestry of Istanbul's history, culture, and contemporary lifestyle.
Istanbul, a vibrant city spanning two continents, offers a diverse transportation system to explore its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods. Here are the main modes of transportation available:
Istanbul's metro system connects different parts of the city, providing a fast and convenient way to travel. The metro operates on several lines, including M1, M2, M3, and M4, covering key areas such as the historic peninsula, Taksim Square, and the Asian side. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines or using Istanbulkart, a rechargeable smart card.
Istanbul has an iconic tram network that operates mainly in the historic Sultanahmet area. The T1 line connects popular attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar. Trams are a convenient mode of transport in this tourist-heavy area, and Istanbulkart can be used for fare payment.
Istanbul's bus network covers the entire city, offering a comprehensive way to reach various neighborhoods and destinations. Buses operate on different routes, and the main bus terminal is located at Esenler. Istanbulkart is widely accepted for bus fares, and tickets can be purchased onboard as well.
Istanbul is surrounded by water, and seabus and ferry services provide scenic transportation options. Seabuses connect European and Asian sides, while ferries offer connections to the Princes' Islands and other parts of the city along the Bosphorus. Istanbulkart is valid for fare payment on these water transport options.
Taxis are readily available in Istanbul. They can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. Taxis operate on meters, and it's advisable to ensure the meter is used or negotiate the fare in advance. Ride-hailing services like Uber are also available in the city.
Walking is a great way to explore the historic areas of Istanbul, particularly Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, and it allows you to immerse yourself in the city's ambiance, discover hidden gems, and experience the local culture.
Here are the main transportation hubs in Istanbul:
Taksim Square: Taksim Square is a major transportation hub in the heart of Istanbul, with connections to the metro, buses, and the nostalgic tram line.
Eminönü: Located on the European side, Eminönü is a transportation hub for ferries and boats, providing access to the historic Sultanahmet area and the Asian side.
Sirkeci Station: Situated near Eminönü, Sirkeci Station is a historic train station and a transportation hub for regional and intercity train services.
When using public transportation in Istanbul, it's advisable to avoid rush hours, as some modes of transport can get crowded. Istanbulkart offers discounted fares and can be easily topped up at vending machines or authorized retailers. Enjoy your time exploring the vibrant blend of cultures and the rich heritage of Istanbul!