Do that Perfect Girls' Trip to Istanbul With These Fab Tips!

Istanbul was recently named the most popular travel destination in the world, and having just returned from a trip there, I can see why. This transcontinental city is a series of contraries that blend together seamlessly: Asia with Europe, Islam with Christianity, and tradition with a cutting-edge, fast-paced contemporary culture.

Its easy accessibility from many cities of the world, fabulous shopping options and unparalleled nightlife made it the obvious choice for our girls trip to Istanbul. Here’s what we learned in our five days in Istanbul:

Where to Stay

If you are visiting Istanbul for the first time and are planning to spend a lot of time sightseeing, you should stay in Sultanehmet, which is walking distance from all the prominent sites in the old city. It may be touristy and slightly more expensive but it will save you time you’d otherwise waste on trams and money you’d spend on taxis.

Those seeking a more local vibe can book hotels in Beyoğlu close to Taksim Square, where you will find many shops, restaurants, and bars. If you are looking for luxury in Turkey, with water views, one of the 5-star hotels in Ortaköy will not disappoint.

My personal favorite, great when visiting Istanbul with girlfriends is Nişantaşi, an upscale shopping and residential district packed with trendy boutiques and stylish bars.

What to Do

1. Sightseeing

Istanbul has some of the most magnificent architectural and historical sights in the world. First-timers will head to its two most well known monuments, the Blue Mosque and Aya Sofya, and will not be disappointed by their grandeur and history. Other worthwhile places to visit are the Topkapi Palace (former residence of the Ottoman sultans) and the Basilica Cistern. You can spend a couple of days just exploring these sites, all located within a few minutes of each other in the old city. In peak season, expect big crowds and long lines.

We paced ourselves over two days, so that we could really enjoy everything. Reward yourself at the end of your sightseeing with a coffee at the Topkapi restaurant, overlooking the Bosphorus, or with a Turkish ice-cream in the main Sultanehmet square.

2. Shop Till You Drop

Istanbul is well-known for its shopping. There is nothing you won’t find in the Grand Bazaar and you can spend days browsing the hundreds of shops selling ceramics, rugs, leather goods, and spices. The Grand Bazaar is larger than any market in India, and a must-see for all visitors, although it can get a little overwhelming. Don’t buy a thing without bargaining. Like Indians, Turks are very hospitable people and are happy to form relationships with those who truly appreciate their wares. We enjoyed many a cup of tea and baklava at the Grand Bazaar.

If you are looking for a more exclusive shopping experience (and fixed prices!), check out the stores in Nişantaşi for a taste of Turkish haute couture mixed with international brands like Christian Louboutin and Prada. Beyoğlu also has some interesting and less budget-busting boutiques.

3. Party Like a Rock Star

Istanbul has earned its reputation as a party destination. Clubs and bars all over the city draw an international crowd and stay open till the wee hours. People here dress to be seen so glam yourself up and prepare for a memorable night.

Many of the large nightclubs mentioned below offer a complete entertainment experience – from varied dining options to multi-level dance floors. It’s no wonder that they are amongst the most famous in the world.

The most popular club in Istanbul is Reina, located on the Bosphorus waterfront. Dance to international and Turkish music while watching boats sail over the sea, drinking stylish cocktails and meeting people from all parts of the globe. Despite the hype, Reina does not disappoint. In fact, we went there two of the four nights in Istanbul!

Owned by the same group is Suada Club, a day and nightclub on its own island in the Bosphorus. You will need to call them to organize a boat to get to Suada. I would recommend spending the afternoon by the pool and then staying on for the nighttime activities. Suada is a favorite with the Turkish glitterati.

Nuteras, 360 and Anjelique are also great options, depending on what’s going on any particular night.

Note: Unlike many destinations in the world, clubs in Istanbul are actually hesitant to let in groups of women without men. It’s best to go early (around 11 pm) if you are not planning on dining there and hope to enter.

4. Harem It Up at a Hammam

No girls’ trip is complete without a trip to the spa and in Istanbul, you get the royal treatment at a traditional hammam. Enjoy the unique experience of a Turkish bath, a practice that goes back many centuries, where you will be exfoliated and bathed like the ladies of the Sultan’s famous harems were. Never has one been scrubbed in such style!

There are several hammams to choose from in Istanbul. We enjoyed an afternoon at the Aya Sofya Hammam, located between the Aya Sofya and Blue Mosque. Reservations required. Basic treatments start at 60 Euro (approximately 4800 INR).

5. Sail in Style on the Bosphorus

You can pick up a boat for about 15 Euro/person (approximately 1,200 INR) from anywhere in the city but do it right by booking a boat (or a yacht!) ahead of time. You can do a full or a half day cruise on your boat of choice and enjoy the spectacular views of both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul. Make sure however, that you ask to see the boat before you pay. We were taken to something completely different from what was in the brochures and refused to get on the boat!

6. Whirl with the Dervishes

Okay, you can’t actually whirl with them but you can be taken on a spiritual whirlwind in their presence. The Whirling Dervishes are part of the Mevlevi order of Sufism, which seeks to establish a close relationship with God through music and chants. They are a uniquely Turkish experience and a must-see in my opinion. Shows run in the evenings throughout Istanbul but the most famous is at the Galata Mevlevihanesi at the end of Istiklal Street.

Staying Safe

A night out at Reina or at a café in Nişantaşi can give you a skewed perspective of Istanbul. While it is one of the most liberal Islamic nations and is proud of its European culture, it’s still fairly male-dominated and traditional on the streets. Not unlike India, it’s best to dress conservatively when walking around Istanbul, and particularly when visiting religious sites like the Blue Mosque, where shoulders and knees must be covered.

Tourists, particularly women, are prey for local vendors. Always ask for the meter to be turned on before you start a ride in a taxi and refuse if the driver says he needs to take the highway to avoid traffic. We fell for this ruse a couple of times before we realized that it was just a way to hike up the fare.

Most cafes and restaurants include a 12.5% service charge so specify that you want your change back or risk never catching your server’s eye again. Similarly, don’t be afraid to speak up if you think you are being overcharged. We had a situation at one of the bigger clubs (which shall remain unnamed) where they charged us for four drinks instead of three and refused to give me a price list or menu to verify. It was only until the manager saw that I was not willing to back down that he succumbed to my request.

Keep your wits about you and Istanbul is indeed, one of the most rewarding cities in the world to visit.