By Aurelija Simkaityte

Hello, my name is Aurelija. I am Lithuanian but live in England. Four years ago, in August, my sister Asta and I spent a week in Istanbul. Before that, we had a week in Antalya.

Arrival We flew from Antalya with Turkish Airlines. Based on my experience, I can confidently say it’s one of the best airlines globally. The one-hour flight from Antalya to Istanbul cost only £20. The plane was comfortable with installed screens offering games, music, and movies. The flight attendants provided complimentary meals and drinks. Flying with Turkish Airlines made the journey feel pampered and enjoyable. Bravo, Turkish Airlines!

Upon landing at Istanbul Airport, we felt the temperature difference compared to Antalya – much cooler, around 25 degrees Celsius, and a light breeze. It was a refreshing change after the scorching heat of Antalya.

Accommodation We stayed on the Asian side, in the historic district, at the boutique Safir Hotel, which included a free transfer from the airport. The hotel staff welcomed us with drinks, and after a week’s stay, we received a gift of Turkish tea and a Turkish set. The hotel had a genuine Turkish interior, luxurious colours, and a fantastic location within walking distance of historical sites like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and the Spice Bazaar. I highly recommend staying here to experience true Eastern spirit.

Later, we wanted to dine authentically, so we visited a traditional restaurant. Even in Istanbul, locals are sometimes surprised when foreigners visit their restaurants. We ordered authentic chicken, bread, and salads. The bread was traditionally baked on stone and could sometimes be slightly burnt, but it added to the natural charm. It was hilarious when my sister Asta tried to remove the burnt parts from the bread, and the chef thought she didn’t like the food. He even came over to ask if everything was okay. We apologized for the confusion.

In the following days, our plans included visiting major museums and landmarks. I highly recommend getting a museum card if you plan to stay longer in Istanbul, allowing you to visit five museums for 360 lira (approximately £13.50).

Hagia Sophia Our first stop was Hagia Sophia, initially built as a Byzantine church in 916 AD. Later, during the Ottoman Empire, it served as a mosque for 482 years and then as a museum. Inside, the sacred atmosphere, spaciousness, columns, reliefs, and paintings on the walls and ceilings impressed us. There’s even a column called the “weeping column,” where you make a wish by placing your thumb in a hole and turning your hand. It was a fun and spiritual experience.

Blue Mosque Next, we visited the famous Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. It was commissioned when the Sultan was only 19 years old and took seven years to complete. With its six minarets and 20,000 blue tiles covering the interior, it’s a breath-taking sight. Visitors are still allowed to pray five times a day, and women are required to cover their heads.

Topkapi Palace Another day was dedicated to the Topkapi Palace Museum, the former residence of sultans and rulers. It houses numerous buildings, gardens, and the harem, displaying glass, ceramics, porcelain, precious stones, and jewellery from that era. It was fascinating to explore the culture and art of the time.

Spice Bazaar We couldn’t miss the Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar – essential places to visit in Istanbul. There, you can find everything from spices, teas, and coffees to antiques, jewellery, and both fake and authentic Turkish goods. I indulged in buying various spices, especially saffron, Turkish coffee, and jewellery, as well as a beautiful leather jacket of excellent quality.

Bosphorus Tour We also embarked on a mesmerizing Bosphorus Tour, sailing through the strait that separates the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. The scenic views of palaces, fortresses, and vibrant neighbourhoods along the waterfront were truly breath-taking. It provided a unique perspective of Istanbul’s charm and its seamless blend of East and West.

Whirling Dervishes In the evening, we attended a mesmerizing performance by the Whirling Dervishes, located near our hotel. We didn’t know what to expect when we entered the hall with chairs arranged in a circle. Men dressed in black with tall hats entered, and the enchanting dance began. It was a unique and sacred experience, resembling a dance of concentration and trance. Later, we learned that the dervishes are Muslim ascetics aiming to unite with God by letting go of their egos. It was a beautiful spectacle.

Taksim How could we not visit Taksim Square, known as the heart of Istanbul? The place is filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, where people stroll, meet, and enjoy themselves. You can also take a ride on small cable cars. It’s a delightful experience.

Conclusion In conclusion, Istanbul offers not only a vast cultural heritage, fascinating history, and delicious food but, most importantly, its people. With a population of around 16 million, the majority are helpful, ready to share, and eager to connect. We, two sisters, felt incredibly safe while exploring this city. I encourage everyone to visit Istanbul – it’s a must-have experience.