Explore Istanbul During Christmas!
Editor Istanbul
Explore Istanbul During Christmas!
Santa Claus has his origins in Turkey, namely in Patara near Myra. St Nicholas poured money down chimneys to assist people as early as the fourth century A.D.E. But now, in a nation where 98 percent of the population is Muslim, Christmas is just another day. Spending Christmas in Istanbul, though, is not such a strange notion – here's why. Beginning in mid-December, streets and shops are adorned in a manner similar to that seen in Western nations during the Christmas season in Istanbul. There are many Christmas trees, (street) lights, and even an occasional Santa Claus to be found. Not that Turks celebrate Christ's birth; they're simply getting ready for the New Year. However, the mood building up to that day is quite similar to what we're accustomed to in the West during Christmas.Â
What To Do in Istanbul During Christmas
It's not an issue if you want to go to a special Christmas liturgy. Simply visit Anthony of Padua, Istanbul's biggest Catholic church. It's on the left side of Istiklal Caddesi as you travel from Taksim to Tünel. It will take approximately 20-25 minutes to walk there. Please double-check mass hours at least a day ahead of time to be safe. The New Year's festivities in Istanbul are well-known. Istanbul is bustling on New Year's Eve, with restaurants, cafés, pubs, and nightclubs all sold out. If you want to party outside, go to NiÅŸantas' massive street celebration. So, while you're here, why not combine both year-end celebrations?Â
Why Should You Spend the Holidays in Istanbul?Â
You may enjoy the holiday spirit without all of the commercial trappings. Personally, I don't mind hearing Jingle Bells or White Christmas 30 times a day, to name a few. Except for masses conducted at certain churches, there are no particular festivities. Also, in Istanbul, the 25th of December is a regular working day. In other words, Istanbul celebrates the holidays in the same manner it usually does: hustling and ready to serve. Not only are all of the historic sites open, but they are also very peaceful and have minimal lines, which is a godsend. However, for the typical visitor, Istanbul's winter is not the most appealing vacation weather. However, hotel rates tend to increase somewhat in the last week of the year. Keep an eye out for early bird specials. Also, if you don't enjoy the heat of summer, the holiday season is a wonderful alternative. Winters in Istanbul, on the other hand, may be rainy and chilly. Pack something waterproof and dress in layers to ensure that you have a great day.Â
Christmas in Kadikoy
The most well-known Istanbul hotels, restaurants, pubs, and clubs, in general, provide fixed-price entertainment. The cost of a New Year's Eve package varies greatly based on what is included. If you like crowds and are willing to take a chance on good weather, the NiÅŸantas or Kadikoy street parties may be for you. Avoid the one at Taksim Square at all costs. The ideal way to enjoy this kind of New Year's celebration is to have supper in Nisantasi or Kadikoy and then join the street party about 23:00. From then on, you'll celebrate with tens of thousands of people on the street, buying your beverages from the nearby businesses. You need to arrange dinner reservations as soon as possible. The disadvantage of street parties is that, especially in the latter phases, you may see inappropriate conduct.
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