Indeed,
Istanbul is filled with cultural and historical sites like the Blue
Mosque, Hagia Sophia and much more but there are other fun things to do
as well! One needs to try out everything that the beautiful Istanbul
offers! Let’s find out what Istanbul has beyond the cultural heritages!
An
underground cistern locally known as Yerebatan Sarayi (Sunken Palace)
also as Yerebatan Sarnici (Sunken Cistern) was once the main water
reservoir of Constantinople built in the sixth century. It is filled
with centuries old columns. The ambience inside is dimmed orange shades
where you need to walk over the wooden planks to get around. You can see
Koi fish swimming in the standing water, and there are two mysterious
statues with the head of Medusa and you can also hear the drips echoing
creating a scary movie atmosphere. Isn’t it a mysteriously fun place to
make a visit!
- Real Hammam:
Taking
a bath in any of the real hammams (Turkish Baths) in Istanbul is a
must! As the ones at the hotels are made for westerners that are not a
real deal! Real hammams are a part of the Turkish tradition since
thousands of years and served as a place to cleanse as well as to
socialize. Most hammams are separated gender wise. Traditionally, the
Turkish baths followed a three step process i.e. a sauna and steam
followed with a full body wash and finished off with a massage. Kilic
Ali Pasa Hamam, Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami, Cemberlitas Hamami are
few of the currently used hammams.
Other
fun activities include exploring the Asian side, taking a ferry passing
Topkapi Palace, the Bosphorus Bridge, other castles and palaces, and
more.
Conclusion:
Istanbul
is a place full of cultural as well as fun activities but to enjoy and
explore the city to the fullest hiring a knowledgeable and reliable Istanbul tour guide is
mandatory who can make you acquainted with the culture and tradition of
the place really well and hence making your trip an exciting one.
Turkey Tours by Local Guides aim to provide you the best touring
experience in Istanbul. Please feel free to stay connected with us on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ social networks!
