Uncovering Istanbul in 3 Days: From Historic Mosques to Turkish Pide

Embarking on a surf trip to Indonesia from the United States can be exhausting due to the long haul flight. But here’s an idea: break up the journey by spending a few days in the mesmerizing city of Istanbul, Turkey. In this post, I'll share my personal experience of spending 3 nights in Istanbul, where I indulged in cultural explorations, dove into bustling markets, and savored the delicious pide, also known as Turkish pizza.

Seamless Arrival: Airport to the Heart of Istanbul

Upon arriving at Istanbul Airport, one of the things that caught my attention was how effortless it was to get transportation into the city. Even with my big surfboard bag in tow, there were ample options for hassle-free transport. I hopped on the Havaist shuttle bus, which offers a direct connection to the city center at a reasonable price.

Rich Culture: Exploring Mosques in Istanbul

Istanbul’s rich history and culture is encapsulated in its stunning mosques. The majestic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are a testimony to the city’s historical opulence. Standing in the Hagia Sophia, I felt transported through centuries of empires and cultures. The intricate mosaics and grandiose architecture left me in awe.

Not too far from the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque welcomed me with its cascade of domes and six slender minarets. Inside, the blue tiles that give the mosque its name created a serene and reverential atmosphere.

Dive into the Markets: A Shopping Extravaganza

Photo by @gennamasters

Next, I set my sights on the vibrant markets of Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are not just markets but an experience in themselves. Walking through the maze of stalls, the aroma of spices, and the sheer variety of goods is nothing short of exhilarating. I found myself haggling over souvenirs, sipping tea with friendly vendors, and marveling at the colors and sounds around me.

Istanbul’s Culinary Scene: Indulge Your Taste Buds

Pide: A Must-Try Delicacy

My gastronomic adventure in Istanbul would have been incomplete without trying pide, or Turkish pizza. With an assortment of toppings on a thin crust, this dish was both rustic and sophisticated in flavor. The gooey cheese, fresh tomatoes, and savory meats on top of the perfectly baked crust were divine. It quickly became a favorite!

The Diverse Turkish Cuisine

Beyond pide, I also indulged in a variety of kebabs, mezes (appetizers), and traditional Turkish sweets like baklava. The blend of spices and textures in Turkish cuisine kept my palate excited throughout my stay.

Strolling through The Umbrella District

Photo by @gennamasters

Just a ferry ride away from the European side, Istanbul’s Asian side is a treasure trove of culture, vibrant neighborhoods, and unique spots to explore. One such place that stole my heart was the Umbrella District. With streets adorned with hundreds of colorful umbrellas floating overhead, this quaint neighborhood is picture-perfect.

Sailing Down The Bosphorus

Taking a Bosphorus cruise was the perfect way to wind down my visit. The calm waters and the view of the city’s skyline from the river gave me a different perspective of Istanbul’s beauty. The European and Asian sides, bridged by the Bosphorus, showed a blend of modernity and history.

Wrapping Up: A Memorable Layover

Spending a few days in Istanbul was a fantastic way to break up the long flight to Indonesia. The city’s rich history, bustling markets, delectable cuisine,