18 de July de 2025

Expan Experience: Stopover in Istanbul, ideal before traveling to India

Some journeys begin long before reaching their final destination . For those who understand that the journey is also part of the experience, the idea of a stopover becomes a unique opportunity. And when it comes to stopovers that add value to any itinerary, few places can compete with Istanbul , a distinct city with its own history , culture , and charm .

Alfonso Hartard , Partner and General Manager of Expan Tours , who traveled to India to attend a trade fair in Jaipur , decided to make a stopover of several days in Turkey's cultural capital . In this edition of Expan Experience , he recounts how he discovered a destination that breathes history, vibrates with energy, and surprises with its unique blend of East and West .

Turkish Airlines offers Stopover in Istanbul

What makes this experience possible is Turkish Airlines ' Stopover in Istanbul program, from one of the world's best airlines . This benefit transforms a simple layover into an adventure : if you have a layover of at least 20 hours, you can stay for free in specially selected hotels .

Traveling to India from Latin America can take more than 30 hours, which can be exhausting for any traveler . But there is a better option.

" I thought: Should I do it via Europe , with Iberia? Via England ? Or with Emirates through the Gulf ? But then I remembered Turkish Airlines and it seemed like the most attractive alternative with its stopover in Istanbul ."

With this stopover , economy class passengers receive one night in a 4-star hotel with breakfast included , while those traveling in business class enjoy two nights in 5-star or boutique hotels.

The process is simple: just send some details —name, booking code (PNR) , ticket number, desired dates, room type and contact information— at least 72 hours before the flight.

Connections between Santiago and Istanbul to plan your stopover

The flight from Santiago to Istanbul, with a layover in São Paulo , takes approximately 18 hours , departing at 11:40 AM and arriving in Istanbul at 11:45 AM the following day . It operates every day of the week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), offering great flexibility in choosing the most convenient date .

Thus, the traveler wakes up already in Turkey , with a whole day ahead: “ The result is arriving in Istanbul early in the morning, settling in comfortably and starting to explore a city that has it all .”

" It's ideal. It allows you to stay for one or two nights and resume your trip to India the next day. Even on the way back, the return flight to Chile also leaves at night ."

For the return trip, the flight departs from Istanbul at 8:30 p.m. and arrives in Santiago at 9:55 a.m. the following day , also operating six times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday).

Istanbul: Living history between two continents

Few cities in the world convey as much intensity as Istanbul . Its location on the Bosphorus Strait , which separates Europe from Asia , defines not only its geography but also its spirit.

"Istanbul is impressive. It combines the development of a European country with the heritage of a Muslim country. It has thousands of mosques , the history of the Ottoman Empire , and a fascinating cultural mix ."

The classic Istanbul tour includes architectural gems like Hagia Sophia , the Blue Mosque , Topkapi Palace , the Grand Bazaar , and the Spice Bazaar . But Istanbul offers much more than just monuments, especially when it comes to taking a boat trip on the Bosphorus Strait , admiring the breathtaking views of the Golden Horn , or simply immersing yourself in the many neighborhoods and streets that perfectly complement the experience.

“ The most beautiful thing is how vibrant the city is. You walk through streets full of life, artisan shops , restaurants, and cafes with live music. It's like being in Europe , but at the same time completely immersed in Turkish culture , with a very strong Arab presence that gives it character and personality. It's something you can feel everywhere and that makes Istanbul unique .”

Istanbul also captivates the palate : " The gastronomic richness is tremendous. There are flavors, smells, and colors that you won't find anywhere else. You can sit and eat on the street , try the local food from the carts , or go to more elegant restaurants with Michelin recognition . Everything is very lively and has a touch that gives this city a unique personality ."

Being by the sea , the city enjoys fresh produce that adds to its repertoire of spices , meats , doughs and traditional sweets such as baklava or lokum .

Balat: Beyond the classic tourist circuit

Alfonso Hartard recommends going beyond the classic tourist route. For example, the Balat neighborhood, historically Jewish but also inhabited by Muslims, which stands out for its colorful houses , bohemian cafes , and artistic atmosphere .

“ It’s a very entertaining place, perfect for walking around, having coffee, and observing daily life . Watching the women prepare Jewish bread right there on the street is typical of this neighborhood, part of its identity and culture. We were also lucky enough to see them serving a dish cooked in a kind of clay pot .”

One of the most fascinating experiences in Balat is hearing the call to prayer (adhan) , which sounds five times a day, reminding visitors that they are in a place where faith is part of the soundscape. And although they speak almost no Spanish and only a little English, the Turks are kind, hospitable, and deeply proud of their identity .

Nightlife and shopping in Istanbul

Another advantage of Istanbul is its nightlife : " There are endless aisles for eating until almost midnight. Everything is very clean, tidy, and safe. At night, the monuments are illuminated and it's an incredible spectacle ."

From the central Taksim Square, you can walk along the famous Istiklal Avenue , where the iconic red tram runs, until you reach the Galata Tower . From there, you cross over to the side where the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are located, completing an itinerary that fills two days of discovery.

It's also worth venturing to the Asian side , less touristy but full of life, thanks to the amount of young people seen in the streets, especially because of the varied offer of restaurants, bars and clubs to eat and enjoy.

For fashion lovers, Istanbul is a true shopper's paradise . You can spend hours getting lost in the aisles of the Grand Bazaar , choosing excellent quality leather goods or luxury products at the price of good imitations.

“ The experience goes far beyond what you buy: here, haggling is part of everyday life , a tradition that connects you with the essence of local commerce. While you discuss prices with the vendors , you immerse yourself in Turkish culture , share smiles and stories, and discover the most authentic side of the city .”

Stopover in Istanbul: A trip within a trip

With just two or three nights, a stopover in Istanbul can feel like a vacation within the main trip: " It was three days that felt like a week. Istanbul is so worthwhile. It has so many different neighborhoods that you'll always find something new. Even if you've already visited the most famous monuments, you'll always want to come back ."

The city is very well connected by metro, trams, buses, taxis, and ferries . However, keep in mind that Istanbul has considerable traffic congestion , especially if you plan to cross to the Asian side, so it's best to use public transport , avoid rush hour, or stay in central areas close to the main attractions to make the most of your time.

For Alfonso Hartard, the decision to travel to India via Istanbul was key to enriching the trip: " Turkish Airlines has good fares, frequent flights, and excellent service. I highly recommend the stopover experience ."

“ Istanbul has it all: culture, history, nightlife, gastronomy, safety, and cleanliness . Although not everyone speaks English, this isn't a barrier: the warmth of the Turkish people means you'll always find a way to communicate . It's a destination worth visiting at least once in a lifetime .”

Even if Turkey is not the destination, a stopover allows you to see the essentials and, if you wish, stay longer to explore wonders like Cappadocia or Pamukkale .

Few stops are as rich in memories , aromas , landscapes , and smiles as a stopover in Istanbul . A city that, even if only for a few days, transforms the experience and remains forever etched in the traveler's memory .