Istanbul is the most crowded city in Turkey. It is the country’s economical, cultural and historical center. Turkish Istanbul, formerly Costantinople, was the capital of both the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires. As a result, numerous places in Istanbul are well worth your visit.
Istanbul bridges Asia and Europe both culturally and physically. Moreover, this city links the present to the ancient past in every corner of its streets. Here are the 13 must visit places in Istanbul:
1. Experience The Hagia Sophia Museum
This glorious landmark is more than a thousand year old work of art. The Hagia Sophia, whose name translates to “Holy Wisdom”, was built by the East Roman Empire in the 6th century.
Each religion has left its mark on the stunning building. Once a church, then a mosque and now a museum. It is truly a marvelous piece of art, carved by renowned artists throughout the centuries. Therefore, it is one of the most important places to visit in Istanbul.
2. The Blue Mosque
Also known as The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque’s two most prominent features are its 6 minarets and the blue domed exterior.
Moreover, it includes 20,000 ceramic tiles in various tulip designs and 200 stained glass windows, all with complex patterns. As a result, visiting this place in Istanbul is truly an immense experience.
3. Feel Like A Sultan and Visit Topkapi Palace
Home of Emperors of 3 continents. A must-see! It has amazing views of Istanbul and traces of hundred years of history. Topkapi Palace is the largest royal residence in Istanbul and it served as the main residence for the Ottoman Sultans for almost 400 years.
Some 5,000 people used to call the place home. Topkapi, which dates back to the 15th century, is situated on a hill overlooking the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus and The Golden Horn.
4. Take A Boat Tour Down The Bosphorus
If you only have a few days in the city and you want to discover all of the main attractions, then take this boat cruise, since it is well worth it.
Additionally, you will be able to see the Dolmabahçe Palace, another Sultans’ palace, more on this later in the article. Also, The Rumeli Ruins, the Maiden’s Tower and many mosques are on display during the ride.
5. Go Underground at The Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is the largest ancient underground water cisterns found around Istanbul. It is just a few steps away from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Constructed during the 6th century, it used to provide water for the city’s palace and other important buildings.
6. Test Your Bargaining Skills at The Grand and Spice Bazaar
You can stroll the overcrowded alleys of the covered Grand Bazaar. This Bazaar is a place containing more than 3,000 shops. Therefore, it is a market that allows you to hone your bargaining skills for cheap goods and great deals.
This huge indoor market is comprised of everything your heart desires, from leather, silverware, carpets, jewelry and ornaments. On the other hand, the Spice Bazaar is the second largest covered market after the Grand Bazaar. There, you’ll be able to pick up spices, nuts, dried fruits, Turkish Coffee, Sahlep and most importantly The Turkish Delight.
7. Enjoy The View from The Galata Tower
Located in Beyoğlu, this tower’s construction bears a Romanesque style. The Tower stands at almost 220 feet tall. The top of the tower comprises a café, restaurant and a night club. You can reach all of these through an elevator.
8. Get Mesmerized by the Dolmabahçe Palace
This place was home to 6 different sultans towards the end of the of the Ottoman period, from 1865 to 1924. Built in the 19th century, using 14 tons of gold leaf.
Turkey’s most glamorous palace blends traditional Ottoman architecture with the European styles. Contrastingly, this pretty much differs from Topkapi, which solely resembles the Ottoman style of architecture.
9. Take A Day Trip to The Princes' Islands
This is a very beautiful archipelago in the Sea of Marmara. It is easy to explore the place by foot or bicycle. No cars allowed there.
Catch the ferry across to Büyükada and spend a day visiting the island’s interesting landmarks. It is filled with shops, restaurants, cafes and taverns. Insider’s tip: Have a seafood lunch there.
10. Watch the Dances at Hodjapahsa Cultural Center
For a taste of Turkey’s tradition in performing arts, you can head down to the cultural centre that’s near to Istanbul magnificent landmarks.
Rhythm of The Dance, is one of the shows you can enjoy at Hodjapasha. The cultural centre was once a bathhouse that is now converted into a dance theater. Explore the 1,001 Nights as you watch the traditional dances from Turkish Folklore being performed in Istanbul.
11. Try Different Kebabs
This typical Turkish dish comes in a huge variety of styles and flavors. We have handpicked this article for you just to explore the Iskender Kebap.
12. Pamper yourself with A Turkish Style Hammam
Istanbul has a plethora of Hammams around the city. These offer the traditional Turkish bath which comprises soap massaging and hot water showers. The Hammam is separated into males and females separate areas. It is a must do in the list of places to check in Istanbul.
13. Stroll in Taksim Square
This square is a lively and an energetic part of Istanbul. Often referred to as the heart of modern Istanbul, it is popular with both locals and tourists alike. Additionally, there are many great accommodations as well as a lot of shops, restaurants and bars.
