Istanbul is a breathtaking city but the month of April is much more interesting. The reason is, it is springtime when trees, flowers, and most importantly the culture of the city are in full swing. In this guide, all that you need to consider for your trip to Istanbul in April including the sections on major attractions and seasonal highlights, will be outlined.
Why Travel To Istanbul In April?
April is also the month declaring the beginning of peak tourist season in Istanbul. Where many people come to this city to understand its history, and sights and to taste the food. Here are some reasons April is unique:
Mild Temperatures:
Because average April temperatures vary between 11 degrees and 18 degrees Celsius (52 and 64 degrees F), it is preferable to travel in the summer with its sizzling heat and tourists.
Tulip Festival:
The Istanbul Tulip Festival or the ‘Istanbul Lale Festivali’ is celebrated during the entire month of April when parks of the city are filled with beautiful blooming tulips, which recognizes that tulips originated in Turkey.
Experience the Contemporary Aspect of Istanbul in Beyoğlu
The assets of Beyoglu, Taksim Square, and Istiklal Street are the two major hot spots that have an avenue lined with lots of restaurants, shops, and galleries for the promenade.
Go to Galata Tower for the best view of the city of Istanbul. This visually stunning tower, which was built centuries ago, offers a breathtaking vista that includes the Golden Horn as well as the Bosphorus.
Savor a Meal Along the Bosphorus
One of the most remarkable aspects of visiting Istanbul is the variety of cuisines available and how they are blended into traditional Turkish foods, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern successfully.
- The Bosphorus is a great place to eat, thanks to the many waterfront restaurants that are located on the shores of the Bosphorus in places such as Ortaköy, Bebek, and Arnavutköy.
- Have some meze and, of course, a traditional Turkish meal of kebab or grilled fish or even seafood with a traditional drink, raki.
Experience the Arts and Culture of Istanbul
The month of April in Istanbul is characterized by a lot of art exhibitions, cultural performances, and other activities.
- For art lovers, whether contemporary or classical, Istanbul Modern and the Pera Museum are both highly recommended places to visit.
Events and festivals for the month of April: Apart from the aforementioned arts, the audiences must also be aware of the various local festivals that will be held, concerning Turkish cinema, music, and so on.
Best Places to Visit in April for Food
Also, winter has melted and given way to spring, the season of growth and development which coincidentally happens to be a perfect period to visit the Culinary Secrets of Istanbul. This is because the city is a food haven with plenty of fresh supple and seasonal food and endless alternatives to eateries.
Kebabs at the Eminonü Waterfront
To get the most out of Istanbul, one has to sample the street food, and for the best fish and chips, try buying them at a stall by the water. The Balik ekmek, one of the local staples that literally translates to fish in a loaf of bread, is made by rolling grilled fish with salad in a bun for an inexpensive yet delightful meal. This is because, in this month, people can sit by the waters without the fear of getting too cold.
Karaköy Lokantası
If you want to be sophisticated, there is Karaköy Lokantası, which focuses on serving classic dishes with a twist of contemporary cuisine. This exceptionally gorgeous restaurant is located in Karaköy which is a fashionable and beautiful district. There are served a range of sweet and savory spring seasonal dishes including vegetable and meat mezes, lamb, and seafood.
Street Vendors for The Dondurma
The month of April ushers in brighter and warmer days and hence the right time for indulging in some dondurma. In fact, in every part of Istanbul on top of the many desserts, you will come across these specific ethnic ice creams while in tourist spots. They often have a show that involves entertaining the customers who usually buy the ice cream with some tricks.
In Beyoglu, Lades Menemen
If you want to eat a heavy breakfast, go to Lades Menemen in Beyoglu. It is a tiny but very popular restaurant that offers Menemen - a Turkish egg dish made up of scrambled eggs with tomatoes, green peppers, and spices. To complete the picture, some fresh bread and tea would be served for consistency and the tradition of a true Turkish breakfast.
April Events to Stay Updated With
International Tulip Festival
Young, rapid, lively, and admired, the International Tulip Festival takes place every year in April, with the major activities hosted in Emirgan Park. Tens of millions of tulips are planted and displayed in a number of them as per the themes and exhibitions of the festival. It is also an excellent way to appreciate spring flowers and how tulips in particular are appreciated in Istanbul.
Istanbul Film Festival
The Istanbul Film Festival is a yearly event that takes place in April which aims at bringing together film producers and admirers of cinema. It is an inspiring festival highlighting the chronological panorama of foreign films as well as films produced in the country. A chance for these film fans is when most of them can watch matinée films only and conversate with actresses or directors after the show.
Conclusion:
The weather in Istanbul during April is warm and sunny as the city is coming alive from the harsh winter safaris. It is no wonder that this month is associated with the blooming season of the city’s famous tulips. Everything from the historical sites, to local cuisine, and landscape views; will be a cultural experience for every individual visiting Istanbul in April. Whether alone, with friends, or with family, spring in Istanbul is a season that will inscribe memories in your brain that will last a lifetime. So how about this? Get set to pack your bags because an adventure awaits in Istanbul this April.
