What interesting things are there to do in Istanbul?

Denmark
March 5, 2011 2:30pm CST
I am going to Istanbul in april this year, and was wondering if anyone has some good ideas for what to experience there? I am especially thinking about some local traditions or places, that the ordinary tourist would not think of? Other than that I have been looking into going to see Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque. Can this be recommended?
2 responses
@maximax8 (31053)
• United Kingdom
6 Mar 11
I went to Istanbul six years ago and had a fantastic time. I liked seeing all the mosques that I came across walking around. It was lovely to have a Turkish bath with hot water. Wow! I loved going on a ferry over the water to the Asian side. The markets were amazing places to get souvenirs. I think take a map and just wander around. If you get lost take a taxi back to where you are staying.
• Denmark
6 Mar 11
Thank you for the tips. I will definately consider that :)
@Bellapop (1279)
5 Mar 11
I've never been there myself, but I'm sure there are so many books and also tourist websites tha would make good recommendations.
• Denmark
6 Mar 11
Yeah I know, but I hoped to get some insight from some locals. I have travelled quite a bit, and I've learned that the truly amazing experiences, you don't get from using lonely planet and so on. Meeting some locals on the other hand, and just do what they do is usually a much greater experience, and often gives you another "feel" of what this new country you're visiting is all about.