Old & New Istanbul

Get to know both the old and new in Modern Istanbul. Begin with a stroll through exciting Taksim, the heart of modern Istanbul. Here you will see the young and hip, artists and businessmen all rubbing shoulders. Next stop is Beyoglu. It is said if you haven’t seen Beyoglu you haven’t seen the true Istanbul.
This area is enjoying a cultural and architectural revival thriving with fashion, art, restaurants and night clubs. Zig-zag across the Istiklal Caddesi (the Grande Rue) a popular pedestrian boulevard affectionately known as Paris of the east.
This was the final destination for passengers on the Orient Express and the architecture is reminiscent of the 1800s Europe. Explore the back streets and see a variety of funky cafes before stopping to enjoy a traditional Turkish coffee and have your fortune told.
The coffee beans are double roasted and the actual coffee is brewed three times before being served. A local fortune teller will turn your cup over on to the saucer and tell your fortune from the murky remains. With a caffeine boost under your belt, keep exploring on foot.
Take in the European architecture, see 19th century cinemas, still in use, and peek in the many pasajis which lead to secret courtyards. Due to the European influence and presence there are many churches of various faiths to drop by as we explore. Visit Galatasaray Square, site of the first European inspired High School and Cicek Pasaji (Flower Passage), a shrine to the Turks love of leisurely dining. Stop by Balik Bazaar - a local market specializing in seafood and perhaps try some fresh battered and fried mussels. Finish with a ride on the Tunel funicular, enjoy a stroll through Karakoy and catch a tram back to Sultanahmet.