East meets West in Istanbul, Europe‘s most criminally underrated city
Six great reasons to go Caferaga Medresesi Spice Market Büyük Çamlica Fly to Istanbul • London Luton from £50.99 daily • All fares are single and include tax Win and escape!
Haghia Sophia
The peninsula of Sultanahmet is the Istanbul of postcard perfection, and has seen more history than most countries have. If you visit only one building, make it the Haghia Sophia (‘Holy Wisdom’). After nearly 1,000 years as a church, and then 500 years as chief mosque of the Ottoman Empire, it’s revered by Christians and Muslims alike.
Sultanahmet Square +90 212 522 1750.
Located in a tranquil courtyard very close to the Haghia Sophia, the Caferaga Medresesi is a showcase for traditional Turkish crafts, including calligraphy, ceramics, jewellery and stained glass. There are snacks but this is the ideal place to take time out and have a strong, slow coffee.
Caferiye Sokak, Sogukkuyu Cikmazi No 1, + 90 212 513 3601.
The best place to shop is in and around the Spice Market near the Galata Bridge, where there are quirky local products and fair prices. Health and beauty products abound. Take in the aromas of cinnamon, cumin, saffron, mint and thyme, while picking up some fine henna, natural sponges, a range of oils and rose water.
Reina
The vast Reina – the city’s most famous nightclub – can seat and stool more than 2,500 people. Packed with local celebs, millionaires and media folk, the main floor spins European and Eastern club music, while the waiters turn their hands to conjuring creative cocktails.
Muallim Naci Caddesi 44, Ortaköy +90 212 259 5919, www.reina.com.tr.
Take a hike (or a cab) to the top of Büyük Çamlica, a lofty hill on the Asian side of the city. It’s green and airy up here and it’s a great place to see the sunset drape the city in warm saffron hues, as prayer calls come drifting up from below.
Answer the question 'What was Istanbul known as before it was renamed in 1930?' and you could win a pair of
flights plus two nights’
accommodation in Istanbul.
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1 comment
istanbul is the best city i ever seen in my life, i prefer it