5 Less touristy places to see in Istanbul, Turkey
updated the 7 October 2015 à 00:03
No one should skip Hagia Sophia and The Blue Mosque – but Istanbul also has more surprises which travel brochures might skip. Here’s our guide.
1. The Süleymaniye Mosque
It is amazing how this mosque is mostly quiet and forgotten by the tourists. The fact is, The Süleymaniye Mosque is not only older, but also bigger than The Blue Mosque. Yes, Süleymaniye is less decorated when compared to The Blue Mosque, but visitors who want to pray will find more solemn atmosphere here. Located on top of the Third Hill of Istanbul, Süleymaniye is an iconic part of the city’s skyline, and naturally has a nice view. But perhaps most importantly, it was built by one of the great architects of his time Mimar Sinan (whose tomb is just across the mosque) and it set the prototype for the Blue Mosque which was built later on by one of Sinan’s students.
2. Big Çamlıca Hill
Escape the bustle of the city to the highest point of Istanbul. Big Çamlıca Hill is 267 metres above sea level and gives 360-degrees uninterrupted view of the city. It is a favorite for both locals and travellers alike, yet no big groups of tourists detected. What to do here? From picnic, kicking back, having barbecue, sipping tea, munching Turkish delights, to doing pre-wedding photo shoots. Don’t miss the sunset!
3. The Asian Side
All the big happenings take place in the European side of Istanbul, leaving the Asian side at peace. It is a total juxtaposition when the Asian side is proven to look more European than the other side. Huge pedestrians, fancy boutiques by the street, hip restaurants, and more local youngsters and yuppies looking trendy on the streets. Hit the Bağdat (or Baghdad) Avenue on a Sunday afternoon, and experience the modern daily life with the locals. In fact, stay in the Asian side. Check out cool hotels by the Bosphorus: Sumahan on the Water, and A’Jia.
4. Bebek Bay
The historical neighbourhood of Bebek rests by the sheltered bay of Bosphorus. The typical view includes hundreds of white coloured, classy yachts and speed boats parked on the bright blue water of Bosphorus, and a well-trimmed green parks with wooden benches where people spend time enjoying life. Around the area are fancy cafes, restaurants, and local designer stores. Secure an outdoor table at the old-fashioned bar of Bebek Hotel and sip the legendary Bloody Mary while watching the sun going down.
5. Istanbul Modern
Witness today’s Turkish lifestyle interpreted in the vast collection of Istanbul Modern. Focusing on modern and contemporary art, this museum occupies 8,000 square metre side on the shores of Bosphorus. The cinema plays a wide range of alternative titles – from Oscar nominees for Best Foreign Language, to documentaries, and avantgardes. Save your money from the tourist traps, and spend for souvenirs in the shop inside Istanbul Modern. A visit here also peovides a nice bonus; the quiet and unique Nusretiye Mosque outside is a rare Baroque style, built in early 19th century. And, the narrow alley between Nusretiye Mosque and Istanbul Modern is well stuffed with shisha cafes making the corridor fragrant. Locals kill time here, lounging on beanbags, sipping shishas, and playing Backgammon.
Ve Handojo
