At the Sea in the Old City: Colorful Districts of Istanbul and Maritime Museum
About this experience
Istanbul is as diverse as it is immense: almost 40 districts within the city limits! I won't describe each one, but I will show you the most interesting ones: authentic Balat, colorful Eminönü, and bustling Taksim. Here, history and picturesque views of the Bosphorus intertwine. And they are all located by the sea - so the program will include a visit to the Maritime Museum.
What to Expect
The most interesting things in Istanbul are to be found in the old part of the city, between the Bosphorus Strait, the Golden Horn bay, and the Sea of Marmara. You can endlessly wander around this area. Numerous side streets and alleys, antiquities dating back to the times of Constantinople, and hundreds of attractions for every taste. I have selected those that are definitely worth seeing:
- Maritime Museum - here you will learn about the yachts the sultans crossed the Bosphorus on and get acquainted with local artifacts. Among the paintings adorning the museum walls are even works by I. K. Aivazovsky.
- Taksim District - the "touristic heart of Istanbul." We will discuss the history of its name, visit the park, and the ancient cemetery.
- Nostalgic Tram - a retro tramcar will take us through the old streets past the Russian consulate and the Galata Tower.
- Karaköy District - at the mouth of the Golden Horn bay, we will cross the Galata Bridge, try "balık ekmek" (fish in bread) and other local delicacies.
- Balat District - a bright mosaic of buildings from past eras and conceptual modern structures. I will tell you how hipster cafes and colorful houses appeared in the former Jewish quarter. Here we will also have Turkish coffee.
Organizational Details
This is a pedestrian walk accompanied by a professional guide
Additional Expenses
- retro tram - 3.5 TL
- entrance to the Maritime Museum - from 12 TL per person
- food/drinks at cafes and street kiosks (optional)
