Only got Limited Time in Istanbul? Then Don’t Miss These! Everything that Istanbul has to offer cannot be seen or done in a week; or even a year for that matter. The sheer size of the city and the amount of historical and contemporary culture available makes it daunting even to plan an itinerary. However there are certain ‘have to do’ activities that will let you feel you have absorbed some of the atmosphere of Istanbul. Palaces, Istanbul has many, small ones, big ones, summer and winter ones, all with their own character and stories but the main two are a must. Topkapi and Dolmabahçe Palaces (or Saray); Topkapi is the largest royal residence, the home for Ottoman Sultans and their families for over 400 years. The jewellery alone makes the Visit worthwhile. The Harem has to be high on any list to visit. Allow plenty of time so you can absorb all that Topkapi has to offer and then plan to visit again and again to see it all! Dolmabahçe, is within walking distance of Taksim Square; built towards the end of the Ottoman era the palace is opulent and atmospheric and the Chandelier from Queen Victoria is magnificent but whilst both are Ottoman palaces you will see a difference reflecting the different times they were built and used. Now obviously you will have to eat while visiting Istanbul and a whole blog can be written on the variety of food available but for food on the go that should not be missed look for; a simit from a street vender, Turkish pizza, a fish sandwich from the waterfront, preferable hamsi (Black Sea anchovy) in season and of course a döner! Mosques, there are a number of celebrated mosques but really most are worth a visit, remember it is best not to visit a mosque on a Friday. The iconic Blue Mosque can be very busy so allow yourself time for the visit. Take the time to drink the Turkish tea (çay) when it is offered. This is very much part of the culture and a lovely way to get know people. If its winter try a drink of salep you will not be disappointed, try with some ice cream for a little taste of heaven. If you want to try the Turkish Raki, with its aniseed flavor, do take care. Eat as you drink, not only is that custom and practice with the Turks but a very sensible idea. Raki and fish seem to complement each other very nicely. Plan to party? Then Takism might be the place for you in the evening. Take any of side streets of Istiklal Caddesi (not forgetting to take a ride on the red tram there) and you will find a variety of taverns from the ground floor up to the roof top, lots of live music to suit all tastes A visit to Istanbul needs a little forethought so you can get the most from your visit. Look out for more whistle-stop blogs with suggestions for your itinerary that will fit into a business or vacation visit.