Istanbul has always intrigued me with its rich history and vibrant culture. Recently, I visited the city. I spent one day exploring both the European and Asian sides by ferry and foot. It was a trip that I will remember for a long time.

Starting the Day in the Old District

My day started in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Old District, Sultanahmet. I was staying at the cozy Aristocrat Hotel, which is next to the mosques. The hotel is a perfect blend of comfort and traditional Turkish hospitality.

I woke up at 5.30am to the beautiful sound of the morning call to prayer, echoing from the nearby mosques. It was such a peaceful way to start the day. I had a shower and packed my bag for my adventure.

For breakfast, I headed up to the rooftop terrace of the Aristocrat Hotel. I enjoyed a traditional Turkish breakfast spread—fresh cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, and the most Turkish sweets. The view from the top was amazing. Hagia Sophia on one space and the blue mosque on the other.

Exploring Sultanahmet

After breakfast I set out to explore Sultanahmet. The streets were buzzing with people, I loved watching them pose for photos outside the water fountain.

I wandered through the cobblestone streets, taking photos of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. They are so beautiful it’s hard not to be completely captivated by them. I continued down and followed the tram line. The shop fronts are really close to the tram. Be careful not to step out in front of one.

Crossing to the Asian Side

After wandering around, I decided to venture to the Asian side of Istanbul. I made my way to the Eminönü ferry terminal, which was really busy. I saw that there was a ferry ride across the Bosphorus. I used my Istanbulkart and hopped on board.

The journey over was a serene experience, offering magnificent views of the cityscape. It took about 35 minutes to get from the European side to the Asian side.

I arrived on the Asian side. I then headed to the vibrant streets of Kadıköy. Kadıköy is known for its lively atmosphere and culinary delights. I decided to have lunch at Çiya Sofrası a restaurant that offers an array of traditional Turkish dishes. I opted for a delicious kebab and a Cay.

Exploring Kadıköy

After lunch, I spent the afternoon exploring Kadıköy. The area is a delightful mix of old and new, with trendy cafes, bustling markets, and historic landmarks. I wandered through the local markets, discovering hidden gems like antique shops and arty boutiques. The locals were friendly. They were always ready to share a smile or a helpful direction. This made me feel safe and welcomed. There were heaps of cats around. I loved taking photos of them. They often sat in strange places, like on books or in the middle of an intersection. I found them very entertaining.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way back to the European side. The ferry ride back was just as enchanting. The sun was setting over the old district as I enjoyed my ride. Once back in Eminönü, I decided to explore the area around the Galata Bridge and the Yeni Cami (New Mosque). The evening lights reflecting off the water and the whole was bustling activity. I enjoyed watching people fish. Little kids were teased by the man selling ice cream. He put on a special show with each new customer.

Walking Back to Sultanahmet

I ended my day with a walk along the tramway, heading back up to the Old District of Sultanahmet. I found a street that had colorful steps leading up to an area where beautiful lanterns hung across the alley. I felt so relaxed. It was the perfect way to wind down after a day full of exploration and adventure.

Is solo travel safe?

Traveling solo in Istanbul was an incredibly rewarding experience. The city is rich in history and culture, and there’s always something new to discover around every corner. I felt completely safe throughout my journey. There are people everywhere so I think it would be hard to get into trouble. Always make sure though that you watch your surroundings and belongings.

Comment below and ask me any questions you want about my time in Istanbul. I spent 6 days exploring this great city and can help you explore too!