THE MAIA CITY GUIDE TO

ISTANBUL, TURKEY

THE MAIA CITY GUIDE TO

ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Istanbul is a city that sets your senses on fire. Streets lined with colorful houses and umbrella-covered walkways, aromas of street food fill the air, while the call to prayer lingers in the distance. For a city that is home to 20 million people (and hundreds of thousands of cats), it feels cozier than one would expect.

It’s fitting that most of the neighborhoods are referred to as Köy, which means village in Turkish. Shop owners greet their neighbors with a warm smile and kiss on each cheek. Early morning locals head to the markets to see what’s fresh— fish caught from the Bosporus just hours before is an especially hot ticket. 

Istanbul is a city that sets your senses on fire. Streets lined with colorful houses and umbrella-covered walkways, aromas of street food fill the air, while the call to prayer lingers in the distance. For a city that is home to 20 million people (and hundreds of thousands of cats), it feels cozier than one would expect.

It’s fitting that most of the neighborhoods are referred to as Köy, which means village in Turkish. Shop owners greet their neighbors with a warm smile and kiss on each cheek. Early morning locals head to the markets to see what’s fresh— fish caught from the Bosporus just hours before is an especially hot ticket. 

DO & SEE

The iconic skyline dotted with silhouettes of Mosques often leads to the common misconception that the city is rooted in Arabic culture. However, you’ll quickly realize that this city that was once the Ottoman empire’s capital, is now truly the melting pot of east and west. It’s European and Middle Eastern, yet neither at the same time. It’s something entirely of its own. 

Contrasts live in unison in Istanbul. Where you can find burkas and sheesha bars next to crop tops and rooftop techno parties. Istanbul is a place where traditions are held close to the heart, but everyday life is met with modernity.

The iconic skyline dotted with silhouettes of Mosques often leads to the common misconception that the city is rooted in Arabic culture. However, you’ll quickly realize that this city that was once the Ottoman empire’s capital, is now truly the melting pot of east and west. It’s European and Middle Eastern, yet neither at the same time. It’s something entirely of its own. 

Contrasts live in unison in Istanbul. Where you can find burkas and sheesha bars next to crop tops and rooftop techno parties. Istanbul is a place where traditions are held close to the heart, but everyday life is met with modernity.

EAT & DRINK

It’s a city that needs to be experienced to fully understand its magic. Where else in the world can you catch a ferry from Asia to Europe? This conscious travel guide will help you discover the many sides of Istanbul. From a local Barista’s guide to the best coffee in the city to the top places to get plant-based meals. This guide has everything you need to be prepared for the best experience in the wild metropolis of Istanbul.

It’s a city that needs to be experienced to fully understand its magic. Where else in the world can you catch a ferry from Asia to Europe? This conscious travel guide will help you discover the many sides of Istanbul. From a local Barista’s guide to the best coffee in the city to the top places to get plant-based meals. This guide has everything you need to be prepared for the best experience in the wild metropolis of Istanbul.

SHOP

SHOP

STAY