31/10/2025

LYFE FRIDAY | OCT 31, 2025

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Malaysian Paper

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Experience wonders of Istanbul I STANBUL tops many travel bucket lists for its rich heritage, vibrant cultural scene, unique experiences, delicious cuisine, o Guide for 48-hour adventure in city

lively nightlife and diverse shopping. Bridging East and West, the city is also a major global transit hub. In 2024, Istanbul’s two international airports – Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport – served around 40.5 million transfer passengers. If you are among them and have a layover to spare, here is how to experience the best of Istanbul in just 48 hours. Day 1: Experience deep in historical marvels 0 Morning: Journey to heart of history Begin your day the Turkish way with a hearty breakfast before exploring the Historic Peninsula, the city’s heritage heart. Start at the Hippodrome, now Sultanahmet Square, for a glimpse into Istanbul’s storied past. Admire Hagia Sophia’s architectural grandeur, then visit the iconic Blue Mosque, renowned for its blue Iznik tiles and serene atmosphere. Nearby, descend into the mysterious Basilica Cistern, where echoes of history ripple beneath your feet. After a morning of exploration, enjoy sultanahmet koftesi , the city’s famed grilled meatballs. 0 Afternoon: Palaces and empires Visit Topkapi Palace, once the administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire. Be sure to see the Holy Relics Room, imperial kitchens and the harem, where sultans lived in lavish seclusion. Alternatively, explore the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, Turkiye’s first museum complex, showcasing remarkable artefacts such as the Treaty of Kadesh, the Alexander Sarcophagus and the Ishtar Gate. During summer, the museums stay open until 10pm under the Night Museums Project, offering a cooler and quieter evening experience. 0 Evening: Markets, flavours and sunset views A trip to Istanbul would not be complete without getting lost in the magic of the city’s legendary bazaars. With over 4,000 shops, the Grand Bazaar is a labyrinth of handcrafted

A bird’s eye view of Œ stanbul.

Blue Mosque.

Hagia Sophia.

lokanta or sample local favourites such as stuffed mussels, bal  k ekmek (fish sandwiches) and pickle juice at the bustling Beyoglu Fish Market. Then, head to Besiktas for a short Bosphorus cruise – a great way to admire the city’s grandeur while gliding past Ottoman mansions and iconic landmarks along the waterfront. 0 Evening: Dine across city views End your day with a sumptuous dinner at one of Istanbul’s Michelin-starred restaurants. The city’s dining scene is as diverse as its culture, offering creative takes on Anatolian cuisine, seasonal dishes featuring local ingredients, and exceptional global or vegetarian menus. As night falls, begin dreaming of your next Istanbul adventure.

shops. Enjoy a walk along the Bosphorus promenade and a coffee at a stylish cafe, then explore the Tophane Clock Tower and visit the award-winning Istanbul Museum of Modern Art and the distinguished Museum of Painting and Sculpture nearby. 0 Afternoon: Soulful locales, Bosphorus tours Next, take the historic Tunnel – Turkiye’s first underground rail system and the world’s second oldest – from Karakoy to Istiklal Street. Climb the Galata Tower for stunning panoramic views – it stays open until 11pm in summer if you want to see the city illuminated. Stroll along lively Istiklal Street, where the red tram passes historic passages, boutiques, galleries and restaurants. Savour homely Turkish dishes at a

treasures, textiles and timeless souvenirs. If you are not tired, then walk down to the Spice Bazaar, where colourful spices, Turkish delights and dried fruits offer a fragrant finale to your shopping spree. As the sun begins to set, choose one of the city’s fantastic terraces or rooftops and toast the city’s vibrant spirit with a glass of Turkish wine. Day 2: Where Bosphorus meets lively neighbourhoods 0 Morning: Fantastic views and chic port Begin your second day with a crispy simit and Turkish tea in Karakoy before strolling across to Galataport, the city’s vibrant waterfront. More than a cruise terminal, it is a lively cultural hub filled with galleries, restaurants, cafes and boutique

Interior of Topkapi Palace.