The last day in Istanbul was spent on Dolmabahçe Palace and Galata Kulesi.
We first went to Dolmabahçe Palace, the newer palace that has been the residence of the Ottoman Empire from 1857-1887, and from 1909-1922. It is located in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul, still on the European side. The construction was ordered by the former sultan Abdülmecid I, as he felt that Topkapi Sarayi was lacking in both style, facilities, and comfort, and wanted a more modern, westernized palace. Dolmabahçe Palace was then built, in baroque style.
After the visit to Dolmabahçe Palace, we went for a very yummy lunch at Pera Thai, also located near Galata Kulesi. Pera Thai has a very good menu, and the food is very tasty. Also the staff is very kind and friendly. I got jasmine rice with a vegetarian red curry, alongside a red/berry mojito. So good! 😍
After the delicious lunch, we went to Galata Kulesi – an old watchtower, now a museum. It has a beautiful view of Istanbul.
Then, we went for some delicoussssss dessert at Viyana Kavehsi (Galata), where I got one of the yummiest desserts (cake) I’ve ever tried – a Lotus Croissant Strawberry. Damn, it was so good. Especially with a latte 😍♥️
