Things To Do In Istanbul In The Winter On A Solo Trip
Know how to apply for Istanbul visitor visa and republic of Turkey e visa to enjoy different winter cuisines, celebrate winter festivals and visit iconic landmarks of Istanbul. Going on a solo trip is very exciting for travelers around the world. And if the trip is organized during winters, then it becomes more thrilling and fun-loving, especially for those that love the cold.
The majority of solo travelers are aged between 22 years and 30 years. Also, reports suggest that the total number Google searches for “solo travel” has increased around 74%, in the past 2 years, proving the increasing popularity of this ‘me-time’ activity.
Out of different places suitable for visiting in winters, Istanbul is one. You just need to apply for a Republic of Turkey e visa, pack your bags and commence an exciting international trip.
Travelling to Istanbul in winters offers many advantages to the solo traveler. Famous places usually become less crowded. This helps the traveler to visit these places in a more relaxing environment.There are also a lot of adventurous things to do in winters in Istanbul.
Tripping in Istanbul in winters also means that there will be more discounts and offers on flight and hotel bookings, since this is not peak tourist season. This will be an efficient way of experiencing the local cultural heritage of Istanbul.
The Historical Landmarks/Places to Visit in Istanbul
There are many iconic/historical landmarks in Istanbul that must be visited during a winter solo trip, such as:
The Glory of Hagia Sophia
Earlier this building was a church, then it transformed into a mosque and now it has become a museum, completely. It is one of the greatest glories of Istanbul that was built between 532 and 537 AD.
It represents many holy scenes and elements from the Bible, along with some prominent figures of the Byzantine Empire.
Topkapi Palace: The Home Of Sultans
This is a highly popular historical place in Istanbul. It is a fully functioning city consisting of over 50,000 residents. The palace was once a ruling center of the Ottoman Empire and included many historical elements such as kitchens and rooms.
The layout within the walls of the palace reflects the lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans, through different clothes, arms/weapons and jewelries.
The Galata Tower
You will enjoy the breathtaking panorama of Istanbul from the top of this tower. It was originally constructed as a watch tower, in the year 1348. The topmost floor of the building is remodeled to an event space, by the local authority. It is now a popular space for organizing Turkish night shows.
Mouth-Watering Winter Cuisines to Try Out In Istanbul during a Winter Solo Trip
There are many attractive and tasty winter cuisines in Istanbul that must be tried out while on a winter solo trip.
Iskender Kebabs
The dish is made with thin slices of meat. The meat is covered with hot squares of pide, a rich tomato sauce and a dollop of yoghurt. It has a serious satisfying taste that provides a welcoming sense and feel to the consumer.
Turkish Casserole
In winters, many top-ranking restaurants and dining areas will serve this Turkish casserole. It is mainly a slow cooked stew made with a tomato sauce and seasonings. The base material of this dish could be either vegetables and meats or the combination of both.
Kuru Fasulye
This is a slow-cooked stew made with tomatoes and white beans. This is known to be very comfortable food, all over Turkey. Many local residents consume it with a scoop of fresh yoghurt. This dish is also made with meats sometimes, according to the preferences of the consumer(s).
Salep
It is a Turkish beverage consumed only in the winter season. It tastes amazing and helps in warming up the body. It is made with wild Orchid tubers and sometimes Cinnamon for a more soothing experience.
The Bustling Markets and Bazaars To Visit In Istanbul
Got an Istanbul visitor visa and are now visiting the country for a winter solo trip? Don’t forget to visit these very popular marketplaces, while travelling.
The Grand Bazaar
This place is situated away from the cultural district of Sultanahmet and offers a unique shopping experience. One of the oldest continuously functioning marketplaces in Turkey, the Grand Bazaar consists of more than 61 covered streets and over 3000 shops, selling almost all kinds of items. The grand bazaar consists of more than 61 covered streets and over 3000 shops, selling almost all kinds of items.
The Spice Bazaar
This is the most colorful and visually appealing spice market of Istanbul. It is a daily operating market and is famous for its unique, flavorful and rich spices. From Iranian saffron to Aleppo peppers, and from floral teas to dried fruit and nuts, every type of spice is available in this market, that too in the highest quality.
Arasta Bazaar
This Turkish marketplace was constructed by builders in the 17th century. The market is adjacent to the iconic Blue mosque and is now running in the heart of the Sultanahmet. The market deals with the diverse Turkish items such as beautiful carpets, hand-woven rugs, ceramics and local food items and beverages. It is also a daily operating market.
Ferikoy Antique Markets
This is the biggest market of antique valuables in Istanbul. The market opens once a week, i.e. on Sunday. You can find vintage collectibles such as coins, gramophones, telescopes and jewelries.
You can also buy paintings, ceramics, and unique sculptures in this marketplace. You can buy these and carry them back with you as souvenirs with your Istanbul visitor visa.
Exciting Winter Festivals to Celebrate While Solo Travelling In Istanbul
A solo traveler must indulge in and celebrate common winter festivals in Istanbul, such as:
Istanbul Winter Festival
This is a very energetic festival that is celebrated throughout the city, in the month of December every year. The festival includes different concerts, theater acts and art exhibitions.
Attendees get to enjoy tasty hot chocolate and local delicacies, while enjoying the live performances.
Sultanahmet Winter Festivals
The Sultanahmet square is transformed into an energetic space, during the winter season. This is an annual festival and is majorly attended by the enthusiasts of history and architecture.
The festival includes several exhibitions, street plays and performances. Visitors can enjoy mouth-watering Turkish dishes and can purchase different handmade items.
Istanbul Theater Festival
This is one of the most cultural winter events in Istanbul. The festival begins in November and carries on till mid-December.
The festival features electrifying performances from reputed local as well as overseas theater artists and groups. This is an ideal event for theatre lovers, who desire to witness acting performances on different themes and identify new talents.
Istanbul Film Festival
This is another very important winter festival in Istanbul. It commences in the month of October and continues with various film screenings, throughout the winter season.
Many top-ranking films from all over the world are shown at this festival. It is a very suitable festival for cinema enthusiasts. It helps them to receive world-class movie experiences, during the winter seasons.
Noel Events
It is a Christmas festival. The event is organized on Istiklal Avenue which is lit up with soothing musical performances. Various cafes and restaurants serve festive specific dishes such as hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts.
Ready To Go On A Solo Winter Trip To Istanbul?
After knowing what and where to enjoy the winters in Istanbul, you must be ready to go on an exciting journey. Just apply for a Republic of Turkey e visa, make other necessary preparations and start witnessing the best Turkish winters, on a solo trip. In case you need any guidance with the visa application process, we are here to help you.
Check your eligibility for Turkey Visa and apply for Turkey e-Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight. Bahamas citizens, Vanuatuan citizens, Sri Lankan citizens and Mexican citizens can apply online for Electronic Turkey Visa.