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On January 20Mickey Ashmore answered the question:
What are the best things to see and do in Istanbul?
From historical sites and boat tours to dining on world-class cuisine, here are Forbes Travel Guide editors’ five favorite things to do in Istanbul, a city straddling the borders of Europe and Asia that has a population of nearly 20 million people:
1. Visit Old City. You’ll find some of Istanbul’s most-visited attractions in Old City, including the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace (don’t miss the Harem and view from the rear courtyards at the latter). You could easily devote at least half a day to visiting these sites — and more if you’re a serious history buff. Don’t forget to finish your day with a visit to a Turkish bath to refresh, relax and rejuvenate yourself before a night out on the town — Cağaloğlu and Çemberlitaş Hamamı are two good options.
2. A night out in Beyoğlu. Istanbul’s nightlife does not disappoint, particularly in the Beyoğlu district, where you’ll find the city’s best concentration of bars, restaurants and clubs. For a great pre-dinner aperitif, check out Mikla, which has an outdoor terrace with some of the best views in Istanbul. You can also check out the bar scene at Münferit or the rooftop dance floor at NuTeras. During the winter, stroll the Asmalı Mescit area, where you can sample a range of bars and clubs.
3. Eat the local fish. It would be a shame to leave Istanbul without enjoying some of its fresh fish. Go to one of the restaurants along the Bosphorus strait and start with cold meze (shared appetizers), then move to ara sıcak (hot appetizers) like fish köfte or grilled calamari while saving room for a nice piece of levrek (sea bass) or kalkan (turbot).
4. Boat rides on the Bosphorus Strait. You should definitely plan on spending some time on the Bosphorus, especially if you come during the summer. Options on the strait range from a private tour with wine and cheese — you can arrange this through your hotel — to simply catching a ferry from Eminönü, in Europe, to Kadıköy, in Asia. The many tourist-friendly Boğaz Turs that depart from multiple ferry docks throughout the city are another option.
5. Brunch and a Walk from Rumeli to Arnavutköy. Brunch is serious business in Istanbul. Locals like to have it late in the day, and one of their favorite places to enjoy it is in Rumelihisarı, a quiet neighborhood along the upper Bosphorus set beneath the historic Rumeli fortress. After brunch, burn off a few calories by joining the locals on a seaside walk from Rumeli along the Bosphorus, back toward Bebek and onto Arnavutköy. -
On September 5Mickey Ashmore answered the question:
Where can you get the best view in Istanbul?
Comprised of seven hills and two bodies of water, Istanbul is a city where you’ll have no trouble finding spots with remarkable panoramic views. Here are our Forbes Travel Guide editors’ four favorite ones:
1. Mangerie in Bebek. This gourmet café offers upscale fare on a terrace overlooking the Bosphorus. Enjoy the views while you dine on either classic Turkish breakfast dishes or international classics like eggs Benedict.
2. Mikla. Mikla is arguably one of the best restaurants in Istanbul — and some would say it has one of the best views, too. From this elegant space you can see nearly every piece of the city, including the large number of ships waiting in the Marmara Sea.
3. Galata Tower. Few would argue that there are significantly better views than those you’ll enjoy from the wraparound balcony of Galata Tower. Yes, it’s touristy, but even locals admit to being mesmerized by the tower’s dominating presence in the middle of such an urban environment.
4. Boat tour. A private or group tour on the Bosphorus, heading towards the Black Sea, will yield fantastic views of Istanbul. From the historic Bosphorus palaces to the modern skyscrapers in Istanbul’s central business district, you’ll be amazed by all the history you can see in just one ride. -
On September 5Mickey Ashmore answered the question:
What is the best thing to bring home from Istanbul?
Istanbul is full of great things to bring home, including antiques — some of questionable authenticity — locally produced crafts and modern pieces inspired by Ottoman times. Stroll through the local markets or go to design stores like Paşabahçe to find classic souvenirs specific to the city such as tea glasses and ceramic evil eyes; the latter promises to bring you protection and prosperity.
Of course, there’s always food, too. Our Forbes Travel Guide editors think dried figs and fruits from any number of vendors are a good buy — and that Malatya Pazarı is an especially good brand to look for. Almond paste sweets from Meshur Bebek Badem Ezmesi in Bebek are also recommended, and standard Turkish delights always make great gifts for friends as well. For a more modern gift, head to Atölye 11 in Karaköy, where you can find fantastic Ottoman-inspired jewelry, pillows and clothing.
Correspondent
Istanbul, Turkey, Europe
Mickey Ashmore is a Forbes Travel Guide correspondent who lives in Istanbul and covers the city for Startle. Ashmore was born and raised in Texas, but he didn’t stay there for long. Over the past seven years, he has traveled to more than 40 countries seeking authentic experiences and adventures. Along the way, he carried his camera and a pen, documenting as he explored. From jungles to city clubs, strangers’ homes to mountain tents, he’s created a vast collection of photography and written work. Today he works for an international company in Turkey and still finds time to travel and write.
