How to make the most of your trip to Istanbul at Interclean 2019

Interclean Istanbul 2019 is set to be one of our most dynamic shows yet – offering delegates the chance to meet new people, forge connections and catch up with all the latest innovations in the industry. However, it also provides an ideal opportunity to explore the glorious city of Istanbul. With so much culture and history to absorb all around you, there’s no excuse not to make the most of your time in the city and do a bit of sightseeing when you’re not enjoying the exhibition.

Check out the amazing historical landmarks

The world-famous Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a clear highlight if you want to indulge in some of the best panoramic views of the city – and there are a whole host of other architectural landmarks worth visiting too.

Take the Hagia Sophia, for instance. Considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, it used to be a church and a mosque, but has become one of the most-visited museums in the world. Drink in the history of the conquest of Sultan Mehmed by exploring the mosaics, calligraphy and tiles on display – and be sure to check out Sultan’s lodge to get the full experience.

Other worthwhile cultural hotspots include the Basilica Cistern, an exquisite piece of Byzantine engineering; the Topkapi Palace, which used to be the residence of generations of sultans; and the Dolmabahçe Palace, a beautifully designed and stunningly decadent palace built by Sultan Abdüi Mecit around the fall of the Ottoman Empire.

Strike up a bargain at the Grand Bazaar

If you’ve never experienced the supercharged energy of a traditional Turkish bazaar, this is one you can’t afford to miss. At 500 years old, it’s one of the largest covered bazaars in the world and spans 60 streets. It boasts an impressive 5,000 shops, 60 restaurants, 18 fountains, 12 mosques and even a school. It’s famous all over the world for its carpets, leather, ceramics, souvenirs and jewellery. Though a little chaotic to newcomers, it’s well-known for haggling, so you can be sure you’ll get a good deal – if you can convince the shopkeepers, that is!

Try some of the best in Turkish cuisine

Istanbul may be packed with historical sights, but it’s also the hub of Turkish culture, boasting treats from all over the country. For discerning foodies, it’s worth trying a balık ekmek – a classic fish sandwich that’s one of Istanbul’s most iconic street foods. Or, for those looking for a bit more of an authentic flavour, you can always check out the Karaköy Lokantası – Istanbul’s premier eatery best known for its hünkar beğend (slow-cooked beef on a creamy bed of mashed eggplant).

Take a trip on the Tünel

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get about, but also fancy taking in some of the city’s culture as you go, the Tünel is a great shout. The second-oldest underground train in the world behind London’s underground, it operates between Karaköy and Tünel Square and opened in 1875 to provide traders and merchants with a faster way of commuting up and down the steep hill. The commute takes approximately 90 seconds and the trains run every five minutes, so it’s worth checking out if only to see a beautifully persevered example of 19th Century engineering.

Indulge in a full-body scrub at a traditional Turkish hamam

You really can’t visit Istanbul without experiencing a Turkish hamam. Although potentially slightly uncomfortable for some, the ritual is a traditional piece of Turkish culture and certainly is something everyone should give a go once. Check out the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı to get the full experience – not only is the building a stunning piece of Ottoman architecture, but it’s likely to be a more accessible way to experience Turkish customs than some of the more traditional hamams.

Find the best of Istanbul at Interclean 2019

As one of Turkey’s cultural hubs, Istanbul serves as the perfect backdrop to Interclean 2019. Its rich history and heritage, coupled with the range of exciting innovations our exhibitors will be showing off in the exhibition halls, creates a truly unique experience where past meets future.

Attending Interclean Istanbul not only gives you the chance to connect with like-minded professionals who share your passion, but it also provides a vision of what’s to come in our industry – while giving you the opportunity to explore one of Europe’s most historic cities.

Learn, grow and develop both on the showroom floor and out in the city itself – we promise you, you’ll get so much more out of it than you could’ve possibly imagined. Looking forward to seeing you all there.