Intoxicating Istanbul

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There are few cities that are as intoxicating as Istanbul. It’s quite simply a breathtaking city, with so much to offer that even the longest holiday would struggle to fit it all in.

The flight is around 4 hours, and transfers are short – depending on traffic. If you fly into the huge Ataturk airport, you’ll find a bigger range of flights, however I flew into Sabiha Gokcen airport, and found it great value.

To really make your break a little more relaxing make sure you get all those extras covered. I find this a godsend when I have early flights, and I’m feeling not quite with it! Check out, Heathrow Parking or Gatwick Parkingwhen heading out of the capital. Both offer fantastic rates and great facilities, meaning your holiday starts with a bang.

So you’ve landed and found your hotel. Now what?

Get your walking boots on, this is one huge city.

Istanbul is the only city in the world to straddle two continents, and that in my book is something pretty special. To one side you have Asia, and to the other is Europe, all linked by the imposing Bosphorus bridge. You will land in one continent and cross to the other, literally in seconds.

I stayed on the European side, in Sultanahmet, but visited the Asian side, and found both to be very different. Whilst Europe is predictably high-rise and bustling, the Asian side is a little more chilled-out, yet both have a special vibe that is quite different from the other. I’d recommend visiting both sides.

Sultanahmet is where most of the sightseeing places are, and I found it a great base. The city is easy to get around, with a metro system linking all major areas and attractions. Alternatively there are taxis available, however be sure to set your price before getting in.

The Blue Mosque is a must visit. It was utterly spectacular and so beautiful; I couldn’t quite believe my eyes. Ladies, remember to cover your head and wear respectable clothes. Everyone must remove their shoes. Once inside, enjoy the peace and tranquillity. The exterior lit up at night is a stunning sight.

Another major recommendation is Hagia Sofia. This is the only attraction I came across where I had to pay to get in, but it was 20TL well spent. This is where Christian and Muslims religions come together and the result is something quite special. Golden, lit chandeliers hang from the ceiling, almost floating in mid-air, with huge ovals on the walls with Arabic writing, together with a mural of Jesus and Mary. Really special indeed.

When you’re ready for a break from culture, head to the Grand Bazaar and practice your haggling skills. This place is huge, and you’ll get lost, but I found that half the fun!

There’s simply so much to see in Istanbul that it’s impossible to put it all down, but those few attractions are just the tip of the iceberg.

One place I would highly recommend you visit, especially at night, is Taksim. This is the district where all the major restaurants, bars and clubs are, with music and dancing all night. I liked how it felt very Turkish, but at the same time not so foreign that I felt out of sorts, it was quite simply the perfect blend.

And that’s what Istanbul is really – quite perfect.

Make your break even more perfect buy saving some money, book Luton Airport Parking and it will be a holiday to remember.