We always say that Turkey sits on the divide between Europe and Asia, but where is the line? To answer this question, you will have to take a cruise tour down the Bosphorus. The Bosphorus Strait connects the Black Sea and the Marmara Sea, which is connected to the Mediterranean. This waterway connects Russia and Ukraine with Egypt, Morocco, and beyond. Bosphorus’ importance, thus, is not to be neglected.
Because of this importance, you will find many forts built alongside both shores of the Bosphorus for defense and taxation purposes.
Since the time of the Ottoman Sultans, the Bosphorus Strait has become a place for luxurious hideouts. You will find some of those along the shores as well.
I recommend taking the public ferry on a daylight tour to the Northernmost fishing village on the straight called Anadolu Kavagi(sorry for the lack of accent here). Anadolu Kavagi is an excellent place to try out some cheap local seafood. You can also do a bit of short hiking to the top of the hill near the fort Yoros Kalesi to enjoy a good view of the Bosphorus, the cross-continent bridge, and the Black Sea. Just don’t forget to get back to your ferry on time! You will find that there are many cruise and ferry service that travels up and down the Bosphorus. I found the public one sufficient enough for my purpose. Plus, it was cheap (2 USD) and efficient. If my memory serves me correctly, you can only buy the tickets there, so don’t forget to arrive half an hour early before you desire departure time!
On the last day of my stay in Istanbul, I decided to visit something newer, the Taksim. Taksim is located on a hill north of the Golden Horn north of the Sultanahmet district. Taking the public tram will take you to the foot of the hill. Walking up to Taksim involves a bit of stairs-climbing that you can opt for public transport. If you decide to take the hike, you will find yourself richly rewarded by the array of handicraft shops and people lined up on the street that will make you soon forget the fatigue of ascending the hill.
Once you reach the Beyoglu, you will see an old fashion tram running around with people hanging outside of the carriage. That is the famous tram up to Taksim Square. If you can catch up and hang on, you don’t have to pay for the tickets. But, be careful, one of the girls hanging outside my ride fell. Do it at your own risk.
Now, this little tram adventure might sound appealing, but you might find the sweet, coffee, and souvenir shops even more tempting. The streets from Beyoglu to Taksim is the prime shopping district for locals and tourists alike. Take your time to try some local sweets; you won’t be disappointed. Well, I suppose that could be said about my entire trip to Istanbul and beyond.