Budget Friendly

Description:

Cordial House Hotel Istanbul offers an unbeatable combination of economically priced rooms and a perfect location for quality seeking budget travellers. We provide comfortable accommodation in a clean, safe and friendly atmosphere with a superb location in the heart of the old town. No need to look further for a good location, close to major historical sites such as Grand Bazaar,Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Museum.

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Description:

A warm and comfortable environment, ethnic Istanbul atmosphere and views of the famous Blue Mosque, gardens and the sea - what more could you ask for as a tourist? The rooms are clean and elegantly done up in hues of wood brown, red and yellows. You can visit important Byzantine and Ottoman monuments that are easily accessible from here. The room prices change according to the time of the year. So, check in soon ... your stay at this hotel is guaranteed to be a memorable one.

Description:

Istanbul Hostel has a great atmosphere and good service with very low prices. They have dorm rooms that can sleep four or more guests on comfortable single, extra long mattresses. The double rooms are neat and clean with extra large king-sized mattresses. The bathrooms are located directly outside the rooms and are continuously maintained. All rooms are non-smoking and have central heating.

Description:

Hippodrome was built by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus in 203 A.D. The hippodrome was a stadium which served as a meeting place for the politicians, for chariot races, wrestling, boxing, and other athletic activities that took place. The arena was over 400 meters long and 120 meters wide, In the fourth century the spectator capacity was increased to 100,000. Hippodrome square is home to the Egyptian Obelisk, the Constantine Column, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountian.

Description:

Yerebatan Sarayi translates into English as the 'Sinking Palace'. It's Istanbul's largest underground cistern and the only one renovated and opened for public viewing. Today Yerebatan Sarayi is a major tourist attraction and offers cool respite from Istanbul's searing summer heat. Pulsing lights, water dripping from the ceiling and eerie music played over strategically placed speakers add an air of mystery to the place. Note the two large Medusa heads supporting columns on the north side of the cistern. Wooden walkways allow visitors to view the whole cistern.

Our Local Expert Says:

Typical eatery / diner in the Sultanahmet with tradition and history

Description:

Sultanahmet is painfully short of high-quality eateries, but Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi has a constant stream of locals and tourists queuing out the door and down the street. It's strictly a fast food-style köfte restaurant. The tasty walnut sized meatballs are grilled to perfection over a great open-flame ocak (grill). Waiters literally run from table to table serving huge helpings of köfte accompanied by crusty bread, crispy green salad, fluffy rice and excellent white-bean salad ( piyaz). The restaurant has been around 80 years, hence its name which means, "Historical Sultan Ahmet Köfte Restaurant."

Description:

Although mistakenly immortalized as a dark 60s hippie drug den in '24:00 Express', it's now hard to comprehend that the Pudding Shop fed an entire generation of long-haired flower power babies traveling the overland hippie trail to India over 30 years ago. Idris Çölpan opened the shop in 1954 as a bakery and pudding shop and soon found himself dispensing food, loving care and the occasional bed to out-of-luck hippies. He was also the first man in Turkey to import Nescafé. These days, you push your tray along a stainless steel counter choosing cheap, unexceptional Turkish fare. It's only really memorable as an historical footnote.

Our Local Expert Says:

The piece de resistance of Istanbul - a breathtaking building both on the outside and inside. Steeped in history, this building is the building to see in Istanbul.

Description:

The magnificent Hagia Sophia was originally built by Justinian and used as a church for 916 years. It then became a mosque for 481 years and Ataturk declared it a museum in 1935. Considered the first and last unique application in terms of its architecture, magnificence and functionality, it has been the inspiration for Ottoman mosques for countless centuries. The incredible frescoes and mosaics in the upper gallery, despite being damaged, are among the most visited sites in the city. The Hagia Sophia is the number one must-see.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of the most beautiful buildings in the world. An absolute must while in Istanbul.

Description:

Dubbed the "Blue Mosque" by Europeans because of its beautiful interior tiles with flower and tree motifs manufactured at the end of the high period of the great Iznik workshops, this is the only mosque in the world with six minarets. Built by Ahmet I between 1609 and 1616, the architect was Sedefkar Mehmet Aga, one of Mimar Sinan's most prominent students. The dome is 23.5 meters wide and 43 meters high. The shrine near the mosque houses the tombs of Ahmet I and his wife Kosem Sultan. On the east side of the mosque is the Arasta, a bazaar filled with souvenir shops. The Hunkar Mansion at the north side is today's Carpet and Kilim Museum.

Our Local Expert Says:

Without doubt one of the most historical sights in Istanbul and Turkey at large. Consisting of hundreds of rooms, including the scandalous harem, Topkapi doesn't dissapoint. Plan atleast 4 hours for this - yes, it's THAT big.

Description:

Topkapi Palace, on the Seraglio Peninsula, became a museum in 1924. The Harem, Baghdat Pavilion, Revan Pavilion, Sofa Pavilion, and the Audience Chamber distinguish themselves with their architectural assets, while other artifacts reflect palace life. Gülhane Park is located on the slopes below Topkapi Palace extending to the seashore, and is popular among Istanbul residents for picnicking and open-air concerts. In the park is the Gothic Column, known to have been one of the main obelisks of the Byzantines, and an as yet unclassified, and therefore unofficial, Byzantine ruin.

Our Local Expert Says:

One could spend a day here, and only see a quarter of what it has to offer. From leather goods to books, and clothes to dishware, the covered bazaar doesn't disappoint. Be sure to try the restaurant up top - this writer hears good things!

Description:

The Kapalıçarsı is Turkey's largest covered market, housing approximately 4000 shops of luxurious Turkish carpets, delicate pottery, shiny brass-ware, handmade nargiles, precious stones, leather goods, lamps and a lot more than one could count or remember. A place as big as this has multiple entrances, though most people enter through the Nuruosmaniye Gate. As is "custom," never settle on the price a dealer quotes. He expects you to haggle with him and you should. Do it amiably and be reasonable (don't ask for more than 50% off), and you're sure to walk away with the article of your choice at a price you can live with. All payments are in cash, and those that take credit cards accept only the major ones. The bazaar also houses restaurants, which are frequented by tourists and locals alike.

Description:

Mimar Sinan is a name synonymous with Turkish architecture, and some would argue he reached his peak upon completion of the Süleymaniye Mosque, considered by many to be the most beautiful mosque in Istanbul. It's also one of the most structurally sound, not having incurred any recognizable damage from earthquakes in 450 years of sitting proudly in the heart of seismically-prone Istanbul. The mosque's most unique characteristics are its bright red and white striped archways, which, rather than lending a candy-cane feel to the place, actually add an aire of elegance to the mosque's interior with their subtlety and symmetry.

Our Local Expert Says:

Best variety of spices

Description:

The Spice Market is one of the oldest covered markets / bazaars of Istanbul. It is an exotic food market selling all sorts of food items from exotic spices, nuts and dried fruits to cheese varieties, Iranian caviar, fruits and vegetables. There are also "well-being" shops and herbalists, which sell body moisturizers, natural anti-cellulite treatment lotions, ant-egg creams for unwanted body hair, scrubbing pads out of fiber for natural peeling and a variety of herbal teas for any other functional or biological problems. Out of the covered market, there is also an animal market, where cutest puppies and new born rabbits mingle together with fish and birds. These markets also sell pet-care items and pet-toys. Spice Market is the second largest covered market after the Grand Bazaar, yet it usually takes shorter to go through its "L" shaped inner structure. Spare nevertheless half a day to sample a variety of food items and shop for souvenirs. Lunch is recommended at Pandeli Restaurant, which is located on the second floor of the market.
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Description:

Pandeli is one of those neighborhood traditions that lives on more for its location and longevity than for anything particularly outstanding about the food. Pandeli was opened in 1901 by a Greek of Turkish descent and has become a local institution ever since its arrival on the upper level of the Egyptian Spice Bazaar. It's a popular place among businessmen on expense accounts as well as for bazaar shoppers looking for a place to eat. If you nab a table in the main room facing the ancient blue Iznik tiles and windows overlooking the bazaar, you can watch the human traffic come and go.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of the most famous avenues of Istanbul and one of the most lively

Description:

This 2-mile pedestrian boulevard is a must-stroll for any visitor to Istanbul. Formerly known as the Grande Rue de Péra, the street's name was changed to İstiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue) after Turkish independence was declared in 1923. The grand boulevard's turn-of-the-century European-style façades are well cared for, and the shops and restaurants that line the promenade are not extremely touristy or expensive. If you start at Taksim Square, İstiklal Caddesi will lead you all the way to the neighborhood home to the famous Galata Tower. Before you reach Galata, you'll pass through Karaköy, where you can see (and ride, for all of two stops) the world's second-oldest subway, the Tünel. One of İstiklal's side streets is the old Çiçek Pasajı (Flower Passage). Along another offshoot you'll find a slew of independent shops selling handcrafted musical instruments. İstiklal Caddesi is also your point of entry to the famous Balık Pazarı (Fish Market). Obviously, the huge boulevard is full of history and mystery, so leave no cobblestone unturned!

Description:

From Tünel at one end to the Galata Tower at the other, the entire street is full of music and musical instruments. Dozens of stores all stock guitars, pianos, traditional instruments like the Cümbüş and Oud, and Turkish cymbals. The street is full of dervishes on weekdays, and the biggest demonstrations of their whirling happen at the Galata Mevlevihanesi, located at the end of the road. This side street is a great place to immerse yourself in the musical culture of Istanbul.

Description:

Galata Mevlevihanesi is a whirling dervish hall in the Tünel Music Quarter at the end of Gallip Dede street. A whirling dervish is the fervent dancing and whirling to traditional Islamic chants and is a worship service unlike any other. The Galata Mevlevihanesi is used by several dervish groups. The octagonal hall is the best place to witness the sema, but tickets cannot be bought on the spot. To avoid disappointment make sure you get your bookings done in advance, or if not in town, get someone from your hotel to get them for you. The performances happen every Sunday and some Saturdays.

Description:

Located on five floors in the heart of Old Pera, the Pera Museum houses a small but solid collection of Kütahya ceramics, Ottoman weights and measures, and Ottoman portraiture from the 18th to the 20th centuries rarely seen outside of Turkey. The portraits alone are worth the price of admission, and a quick lap around the museum can be accomplished in an hour, if you really try hard.

Description:

The Anglican church which was used by Sri Lankan Anglikan community, is located on Serdarı Ekrem Street, extending to the Galip Dede Street in Beyoglu, Istanbul. Lord Stratford Canning laid the foundation in 1856. It was built in memory of English soldiers who attended to Crimean war on the site of the Greek cemetery. Christmas celebrations are a rare kind attended by a cheerful priest and a choir.

Description:

The Saint Antoine Church is located on Istiklal Street in Beyoglu, Istanbul. The construction began on August 23rd, 1906 and it was completed and opened to service in 1912. Its architect is Giulio Mongeri, who was born in Istanbul. The church which was governed by Italian priests is the greatest Catholic Church in Istanbul with the biggest number of congregation. It was openned to service on February 15th, 1912.

Description:

This small Italian joint is famous for its mojitos and for its late night scene. Apparently, the motto is to eat well and dance better at this joint. The DJ gives everyone a reason to groove and sway till they are thirsty or famished. Rock and electro music are played here till late night.

Description:

The Galatasary Hamam was built in 1715 as a public bath, yet it was actually exclusively for men. In 1965 the hamam underwent renovation and a new separate quarter for women was added to the establishment. During the renovation process, much has been kept intact and the main structure has not been altered radically, but architectural details were added. Galatasaray Hamam diverges from the mainstream public baths due to some of these architectural details and its more elitist atmosphere. One major feature here are the marble slabs where bathers can be massaged in semi-privacy rather than on the heated central navel stone. As such, the admission price tends to soar higher above regular bath prices as well. In Euros: 26 for a bath, 35 with a kese (scrubbing the body), 38 with foam massage, 44 for both kese and massage, and 57 for the 'Pasha' treatment - oil massage. Beverages are free and further tips to the keseci (massager) will guarantee further services and better treatment. Visitors to Galatasaray Hamam often complain that they are being ripped off inside by the increasing number of services and additional fees asked for each. But, if you discuss your options and prices before going... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

Summer-time day trip

Description:

In Turkish, "adalar" simply means "islands" - though adalar are very familiar territory for Istanbulites, which island you are referring to is still quite important since many Istanbullites use the islands as their summer residence and have a genuine circle of relatives and friends there. Probably the most popular day trip option from Istanbul, at least in the summer, the Princes' Islands are comprised of seven small islands, four of which (Büyükada, Kınalıada, Burgazada and Heybeliada) have constant summertime service by ferry from Kabataş and Bostanci. The islands offer treasures of history (Byzantine churches and Greek and Turkish ruins), green parks, and various upscale restaurants and hotels. As no cars are allowed onto the islands, you would be better off renting a horse-backed carriage to go from one part to another; or to arrive on the islands dressed casually and renting a bike. The islands are a wonderful retreat from bustling Istanbul, each with its own unique character and pace of life.

Description:

The best seats are around the brass and copper Ocak, an open glowing coal grill where chunks of tender marinated lamb are grilled on skewers. Served on huge metal skewers, the idea is to wrap the thin freshly baked Lavash bread around the meat with your fingers, grip firmly and withdraw the skewer, leaving you with the Türkish equivalent of a lamb sandwich. There's not a lot of elbow room as all three floors are crammed full most nights. The atmosphere here gets pretty boisterous, and alcohol is served. It's also one of the best places in town to watch a frantic live football match on satellite TV.

Description:

The first of Istanbul's mushrooming crop of wine bars, Pano is the modern equivalent of the traditional Greek taverna. Despite increasing competition, it's still the most popular, although one wonders whether it's due to the superior range of reasonably priced house wines and tasty nosh or because it's not possible to get a mobile phone signal once you're in the door! The waist-high tables are crammed with rowdy punters jostling for their fill. Try the most popular item on the menu: the cheese platter.

Description:

Basement spaces have become a popular setting for Istanbul's slowly deteriorating rock scene. This poorly illuminated hole-in-the-wall is decorated with huge posters of the rock 'n' roll pantheon. The place hosts conservative traditional rock groups performing the back catalogs of the Doobie Brothers, Supertramp, The Eagles and much more. It's an excellent spot to experience a chilling 70s time warp sensation. The occasional blues act that turns up is usually a little better. The live music starts at midnight.

Our Local Expert Says:

A great place for those craving for a hands on R&B night.

Description:

Istanbul's most popular Latin, reggae and world music bar is run by local Sudanese Rastafarian celebrity DJ Osman (wCities). Primarily a R&B, hip hop music hall / disco; Riddim is the only place that features R&B music in a stylish way. There are theme parties every now and then, as well as visiting R&B artists who take the ground with dances and music. A pulsating young crowd of hip swinging youngsters dance the night away. When space runs out, dancers climb on the chairs and between the tables. Good vibes and cheap beer.

Description:

Roxy is a well-established live music venue, located just a short walk from the rest of Beyoglu's bustling nightlife scene. There are always long queues snaking their way around the corner, waiting to get in at weekends. Once inside, you will find industrial décor and an innovative music program. The place often features live concerts by excellent local musicians and popular international rock and pop bands. The likes of Ben Harper, John Zorn, TransGlobal Underground, and Zydeco Twisters have all performed here in the past. It's also one of the venues for the city's Jazz Festival. The highlight of the week is Wednesday night, when thr resident DJ rocks the house.

Description:

One of the most enjoyable ways to travel in Istanbul! Traditional ferry boats travel convenient routes up, down, and across the Bosphorous, connecting Karakoy, Eminonu, and Besiktas on the European shore with Uskudar, Haydarpasa, and Kadikoy on the Asian side. A lovely parade of great, ancient mansions which line up both sides of the coast, a romantic escapade under crimson moonlight, no better way to seize the sea-water-canal of this city which divides it apart.

Description:

A walk from Besiktas until Sariyer is just too long. But, if you were to do it, you would be passing by Ciragan Palace, Ortakoy, Kurucesme, Arnavutkoy, Bebek, Rumeli Fortress, Baltalimani / Boyacikoy, Emirgan, Sabanci House / Museum, Istinye, Yenikoy, Tarabya and Sariyer successively. This entire walk would last for at least 4 hours, maybe 5. However, a smaller version from Kurucesme until Rumeli Fortress is just enough to see the beautiful old houses, the fishermen, the sidewalk groceries and the Anatolian coast across. The same walk is doable on the Anatolian coast as well. There the line starts from Uskudar (across from Besiktas) and continues along Beylerbeyi, Kuleli Military School, Vanikoy (the elite residential place of mansions), Kandilli, Goksu, Anadolu Fortress, Kanlica, Pasabahce, Beykoz. Again this entire trail would be too long and tiresome. The better parts of this are from the Kuleli Military School until Kanlica. Yet, another trail along the coast on the Anatolian side is the parallel of the famous shopping street the Bagdat Street. The parallel of this street runs by the Marmara Sea and the best trail starts from Bostanci and continues along Suadiye, Caddebostan and... read more

Description:

Ali Baba has been serving simple Turkish fast food to discerning locals for many years. Köfte can be found on the menu - and not much else. These tasty little grilled meatballs are served with white bean salad (known as piyaz and fresh hot pide bread. To spice it up, you can add as much crushed hot chili as you like. The place has an impeccable reputation - way out of proportion with its tiny size. Eager patrons wait in long queues or share tables with the rest of the weekend crowd. Devotees maintain these are the best köfte in town.

Description:

Adem Baba is a little, cosy fish restaurant in Arnavutköy. If the metaphor suits itself right, it is infact the Le Relais de l'Entrecôte of Istanbul -taking no reservations in advance and making people wait in line to eat its fresh and daily products. Its fish soup, which is only available on Sundays is one of its fineprints.

Description:

Essentially a rocking boat making fish & bread to the passers by, Takanik has expanded its business and opened two restaurants: one in the Yenikoy region of the Bosphorus, and the other in Arnavutkoy. Nevertheless, Takanik did also manage to keep its "rocking boat" - "fisherman" spirit, and has thus kept the restaurants pretty basic and simple -much like a diner. The high point of Takanik, like much of the other fish diners in Istanbul is the freshness of the food, delightful tastes and low prices. Bringing fresh food and organic salads from the garden, Takanik is one of the local's choice for take-out as well.

Description:

A manti house open 24 hours, serving breakfast in the morning and traditional Turkish food all day long -including the delicious Turkish dumplings, the manti…

Description:

Claiming to be the oldest restaurant in Istanbul, its bright walls give the three rooms a contemporary atmosphere. By far the most pleasant room is the one at the back; you'll find pink tones, a skylight and a glittering old world chandelier. The English menu lists a vast selection of Turkish and Ottoman delights. It's an excellent place for lunch. A colorful display of preserved pickles and fruits brightens up the entrance. Try the Kunefe for dessert; it's to die for.

Description:

Set in a lush, pretty garden filled with towering laurel, linden and horse chestnut trees, Garden at hotel Yesil Ev offers a quiet refuge from the tourist-ridden city streets. You can rub shoulders with the prestigious likes of Gorbachev, Sophia, the Queen of Spain and other assorted bigwigs in sumptuous surroundings. It's a beautiful setting, unique for Istanbul, and easily the finest place in town for an early evening drink. A large glasshouse with luxurious hanging gardens accommodates customers in winter. Warning: the prices are definitely not for the faint-hearted!

Description:

If it is a party atmosphere you want - accompanied by fine beers, great food and wicked bar staff - then you will have found your Utopia at Baykus. If it's a crazy night of raucous singing and wild dancing you're after then make sure you find yourself in the bar at around 11p - the guys or gals of your dreams may already be here! Push aside red velvet drapes and step onto varnished plank floors surrounded by turquoise banquettes, ochre walls and original artwork. The light jazz on the CD player creates a sophisticated atmosphere which pleases the fussy theatre/publishing/performing arts crowd that gathers here. The menu features gastronomic delights such as carpaccio and fancy pasta dışhes.

Description:

This restaurant is named after the Türkish impressionist, Uluer Rami, whose works grace the walls. It's located in a renovated Ottoman house on three levels. The glorious interior is done out with antique furniture and old yellowing prints - gentle sepia tones and nostalgia are big here. If you book in advance, it's possible to have front row seats on the top floor for the spectacular sound and light show at the Blue Mosque in the summer. Traditional Türkish cuisine is on the menu.