If you missed it {Istanbul Day 1} and {Istanbul Day 2}
On our third day in Istanbul, we had about a half a day to explore as we were slated to catch a plane to Cappadocia later in the afternoon. So, we set out to conquer the walking tour of Istiklal Street, or Istiklal Caddesi as they say in Turkish:)
The major sites in Istanbul are divided between the "old city", called Sultanahmet {where the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace are} and the "new city" of Beyoglu {where you will find Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, and the Galata Tower}.
Our walk started at the top of Taksim Square, where a tribute to the national hero Ataturk Kemal was situated. The bright red trolly rattled it's wheels, and we followed it down the hill past old buildings, churches, and rows of Turkish delight shops. Rick Steve's walking tour included a little stop off at the "best turkish delight shop" in all of Istanbul. So of course we bought a few pieces, and sampled them as we meandered down the street. Most of you probably have only heard of turkish delight from Edmund's obsession in Narnia books. I must say i'm not a huge fan, as it was really sweet and sugary, but I think maybe it's an acquired taste?
What I loved about this walk was how genuinely local it felt. We were surrounded by local Itanbulites, just making the rounds and doing their grocery shopping. I fell in love with their colorful scarves and dresses:)
At the bottom of the walk is the Galata Tower. Surrounding the tower is a pretty courtyard, and some lovely places to eat and drink. One of my favorite parts of turkey was their fresh juice stands! You could pick any combination of fruits, and they juiced and pressed it right there in front of your eyes {my kind of snack!!}. My favorite was apple, carrot, and pomegranate!
If you are going to Turkey, don't you dare miss Istiklal street. It was such a highlight:) Enjoy the pictures!
If you are going to Turkey, don't you dare miss Istiklal street. It was such a highlight:) Enjoy the pictures!
