I wrote recently that as my departure from the fabulous city of Istanbul loomed, I would be writing blogs about my favourite places and activities under the heading #AdiosIstanbul.
One of my favourite activities in Istanbul is walking. I have wandered all over the European side, taking in places from Zeytinburnu and Kumkapı to Okmeydanı and Eskişehir.
I have also done two sections of Serkan Taycan’s intriguing “Between Two Seas” walk, thanks to the indomitable team at Hiking Istanbul – some unforgettable days.
On the Asian side, I have strolled around Üsküdar, Moda, Kartal, Poyrazköy, Polonezköy and the radio mast-festooned heights of Çamlıca, as well as the splendid countryside around Şile and Anadolufeneri.
All deserve exploring: finding your way on your own two feet allows you to see the city better than any other means of transport.
It also makes you aware how Istanbul is changing as it grows and new development takes place. This poses important challenges to balance between improving living standards and preserving the environment.
It is impossible to chose a favourite walk. But I thought I’d share pictures from one I do often. This goes from the British Consulate General in Beyoğlu down the hill to the new metro bridge which crosses the Golden Horn; left to Eminönü to return over the Galata bridge; then up from Karaköy through Galata to İstiklal to return home.
I did this walk in January in the course of a splendid sunset and shared pictures on my @leighturnerFCO account on Twitter. The results are in the gallery. Enjoy, and wonder at the richness that is Istanbul.
