Article Side

Online Article Directory!

Hello Guest! Login or Register to submit articles!

Home

Travel

Outdoors

Istanbul City Centre Things to Do

By Lek Boonlert

| December 6th 2011 | Views:

loading

When visitors stay at hotels in Istanbul city centre they will have a wealth of opportunities for fun and exciting things to do practically on their doorstep. This is a great, sprawling city packed not only with cultural and historic attractions but also with numerous activities to enjoy.

Ferry Trip

One of the best and most relaxing ways of being introduced to Istanbul in all its diversity is to take a trip by ferry up the Bosphorus as far as the Black Sea. These comfortable vessels leave Eminonu every half hour and stop off at various points along the way. Passengers can hop off at interesting ports of call such as Besiktas, Bebek and Ortakoy. These formerly separate settlements that became absorbed into the city as it spread, still retain their distinctive characters. Waterside palaces, parks and elegant mansions are some of the things to look out for.

Under the Bridge

The new Galata Bridge has numerous fish restaurants, teahouses and bars on its lower level. A pleasant afternoon or evening can be spent strolling along and stopping off for a bite.

City Walls

The walls of Istanbul constitute the greatest Byzantine structure in the city and are well preserved in many places despite being built in the early fifth century. They stretch for four miles in an arc around the old city, between the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn. Taking a stroll along their length is a great way of getting to know the city.

Climb the Galata Tower

The tower was built in 1348 by the Genoese to protect their trading interests. It has been completely restored with a fine restaurant in the upper level, with a viewing gallery that takes in the whole city.

Turkish Bath

Having your naked flesh kneaded and pummelled on a marble slab in a Hamam is something not to miss. There are several of these specifically designed to give tourists a taste of this old Islamic ritual cleaning and bathing experience.

Lek Boonlert - About Author:
Lek Boonlert is an editor and content reviewer at DirectRooms and is responsible for all Hotels in Istanbul City Centre content.