Two Continents, One Soul: The Essential Guide to Istanbul

The Blue Mosque—Officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, this is one of Istanbul’s most breathtaking landmarks. Seeing it in person feels a bit like stepping inside a living work of art. The ottoman architecture is remarkable and you can feel such a peaceful presence when you step inside. This mosque is also free to visit.

Hagia Sophia: Hagia Sophia has been a central landmark in Istanbul, serving as a cathedral, a mosque, and a museum, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a symbol of world history, art, and culture.

The Egyptian Bazaar: If you like to shop and bargain, the Egyptian Bazaar is for you! Also known as the Spice Bazaar—is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant and intoxicating places, a marketplace where color, scent, and sound swirl together in the most delightful chaos. You can taste your way from stall to stall—pistachio-filled Turkish delights, sweet-salty roasted nuts, apple tea—while admiring rows of hand-painted ceramics, fragrant soaps, dried flower garlands, and colorful lamps. Many vendors have been there for generations, happy to tell you the story behind a spice blend or the right way to brew Turkish tea.

Take a ferry to the Asian side of Istanbul. The ride itself is only about 15–20 minutes, but it captures the magic of Istanbul: two continents, one city, endless charm. The Asian side isn’t about flashy landmarks—it’s about the atmosphere. It’s cozy, colorful, and wonderfully authentic. Here, Istanbul feels more local, more relaxed, and endlessly welcoming. It’s the side of the city where you come to breathe & explore at your own pace.

Pera Antakya: South East Turkish cuisine. Make sure to order the lamb kabobs! Wonderful selection of wines as well.

Arada Blue City: This is located on the Asian side of Istanbul. They serve Turkish breakfast, but Lebanese style. Everything was absolutely delicious and they serve enough food for at least four people (it was just my husband and I). Expect to try at least 10 different types of breads, dips, pastries, and salads! They also have an excellent selection of fresh-squeezed juices. I ordered their strawberry juice and it was so refreshing.

Sa Va Anatolian Breakfast House: Located on the European side of Istanbul. It also has over 8k five-star reviews on Google! You can expect fresh hot breads, cucumber tomato salads, several different kinds of olives, several different kinds of hummus, jams and honey, sucuk (spicy Turkish sausage), menemen, (a comforting scramble of tomatoes, peppers, and eggs cooked in olive oil or butter); and last but not least, endless amounts of Turkish tea!

Grace Rooftop: This restaurant offers stunning views of the Blue Mosque as well as the Hagia Sophia. There truly is not a bad seat in the entire restaurant. We really enjoyed the baked goat cheese appetizer, as well as the mixed grill meat platter. Make sure to try a shot of Raki (a traditional Turkish liquor) Strong and aromatic but smooth when diluted with cold water.

Shamese Restaurant: Traditional Iranian cuisine. Delicious stews, kebabs, and saffron rice with pomegranate.

Galaktion: A Georgian restaurant that is a true hidden gem located around some of the busiest bars in Istanbul! This was one of our favorite spots during our trip here. I would highly recommend the Megruli Khachapuri (Georgian cheese pie), Phali (Georgian appetizer dish), and Khinkali -Georgian Dumplings (with minced meat).