We always plan to arrive one day before a group tour begins in case anything goes wrong and this trip was no exception. Istanbul’s Ataturk International Airport (IST) is located 23 km/14 miles west of Sultanahmet Square. A taxi from the airport cost about $20 to the Hotel Ottoman where the Explore group was staying.

The Hotel Ottoman is a small 3*** hotel in the Kadirga District (Kumkapi), located at the bottom of a steep hill below Sultanahmet. (See map below.) A typical Turkish breakfast is served buffet-style with: tomatoes, eggs, olives, cucumbers, cheese, juice, tomatoes, bread, tea and coffee, etc. Not fancy but the location was wonderful. There were small grocers and eateries in close proximity, and an easy tram ride to the famous attraction of Sultanahmet. Or, you could walk it.

Sultanahmet area map, Istanbul
The Kumkapi area (or district) stretches along the sea within a maze of narrow streets and was a principal port during Byzantine times. It is also famous for its fisherman and tavernas. Fishing nets are strung out for repair along the streets, displays of fresh fish for sale, and the tavernas go gangbusters every evening with raki (strong, anise-flavored apertif and unofficial “national” drink), mezes (cold appetizers), borek (filled pastries), calamari, grilled shrimp and the catch of the day, served to eager diners. FYI: Turkey has some of the best navel oranges and cherries we’ve ever eaten.

Blue Mosque, Istanbul, TurkeyHagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey 

A full Explore group of 16 people, 13 from the U.K. and three Americans (including us). A meet and greet with all the necessary information. Tomorrow night, the group would take an overnight sleeper train to Denizli to begin the journey. Tour leader, Simon, suggested an individual walk around Istanbul before departure with ample time to visit the main sights. For example, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Sulemaniye Mosque, Covered Bazaar and Hagia Sophia (first a Basilica, then Mosque and now a Museum).

Dolmabahce Palace, Istanbul
I have one other suggestion if you will be in Istanbul for several days or on a return visit. Take a ferry across to the Dolmabahce Palace located on the Beygolu side. This fantabulous Palace was built between 1843-1856, cost the equivalent of 35 tons of gold and was home to six sultans. Incredible and definitely worth touring.

Beyoglu side of Istanbul, Turkey