Some days, you look out your office window and reminisce on your days as a carefree traveller. Back then, you spent your mornings not in meetings but exploring the world’s historical sites. These days, you toil away on reports all afternoon. A few short years ago, you were working on your tan.

If only you could recapture the spirit of those carefree days.

Well, you can. Yes, it’s true – you do have a career. However, that doesn’t mean you have to compress your travels into a precious few weeks of annual holidays. Within several hours of Saudi Arabia lie the world’s most beautiful cities. With a defined itinerary and a حجز فنادق, It’s possible to explore them on your weekends off. Share tips on how to enjoy the weekend while staying in Istanbul and get the chance to draw more attention to your social platform, with the help of Socialwick.

Of them, Istanbul is among the most exotic. In today’s blog, we’ll show you how to make the most of 48 hours in this exciting travel destination.     

Friday evening

After getting settled (Georges Hotel Galata is a smart choice), go for a stroll through Karakoy. During the Byzantine Empire, this neighborhood was a Genoese enclave. Starting from the 13th century, merchants from this Italian nation plied their trade here.

As such, you’ll spot hints of Italian influence as you pass through its narrow cobblestone streets. Eventually, smells wafting from kebap restaurants will stimulate your hunger. Give in and take a seat at street-side eateries like Ali Ocakbasi.

Once you’ve had your fill, feel free to catch up on sleep back at the hotel. Check out this website for some of the best فنادق اسطنبول. 

Or, if you feel like letting loose, party with Istanbul’s hippest youth at joints like Finn Karaköy. This establishment frequently hosts up-and-coming DJs – they won’t disappoint!

Saturday morning

Saturday will be your only full day in Istanbul. As such, start it properly by grabbing breakfast at Gakkı Karaköy. Try their sigara böreği (Turkish cheese rolls), or opt for their french toast – local diners rave about both.

After slaying your hunger, it’ll be time to take in the sights. Jump on the T1 tram south until you reach Sultanahmet station. From here, you’ll be a short three-minute walk from the Hagia Sophia. Dating from the 4th century AD, this religious icon served as an Orthodox cathedral and a mosque. Today, it is a museum. It showcases frescoes from its Christian period, and calligraphy, as well as Islamic elements, like its impressive marble mihrab.  

Saturday afternoon

After grabbing lunch and, eventually, a Turkish ice cream, check out the Blue Mosque. Authorities strictly control entry – however, the spectacular blue tiles that lie within will prove to be worth the wait. While you wait to get inside, though, feel free to scope out the massive courtyard.

If you’re up to see one more attraction, descend into the Basilica Cistern. Romans built this public work in the 3rd century AD to store water for the city of Constantinople. Today, it contains a fraction of the water it once did, but it is incredibly atmospheric.   

Saturday evening

Reserve a dinner cruise on the Bosporus soon after arriving in Istanbul. The views of this ancient city are incredible from the water. As such, you won’t regret splurging on this experience!

Sunday morning

After another leisurely breakfast in Karakoy, saunter over to Galata Tower. Standing more than 60 metres above Karakoy, this 570-year-old tower offers sweeping views over Istanbul. At the top, you’ll find a cafe – grab a quick bite before leaving for the airport.

Experience the best of Istanbul on a weekend break

With planning, you can take in the finest cities in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia on the weekend. For us, Istanbul is a tantalizingly close city – don’t miss it!

By Manali