A city that straddles Asia and Europe across the beautiful Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul is an interesting destination for many. Formerly known as Constantinople and Byzantium, and conquered by three ancient empires, Istanbul boasts rich history and culture, impressive landscapes, ancient structures and delicious Turkish cuisine. There's a multitude of things to do in Istanbul that will have every tourist looking for more.
Hagia Sophia is one of the city’s prominent landmarks and a major attraction in Istanbul. Recognized for its massive dome, this magnificent, centuries-old structure has an incredible history behind it. Constructed in 537AD, Hagia Sophia used to be a church for 916 years, then was later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman empire. Today, it’s an outstanding historical museum where visitors from all over the world come to see. Take an audio-guided tour inside and admire the exquisite Byzantine architecture, the impressive interiors, and well-preserved mosaics.
Adored with blue tiles, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, or well-known as the Blue Mosque, is another attraction you should see while in Istanbul. Constructed during the reign of Ahmed I of the Ottoman Empire, tourists flock to this magnificent mosque to see its impressive architecture which has been well preserved throughout the centuries. Located beside Hagia Sophia, opt to visit the mosque at dusk when blue lights illuminate the domes, as well as to catch the call of prayer that echoes throughout the halls.
Formerly the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans for more than 350 years, the Topkapi Palace is one of the most impressive palaces and museums in the world. The complex covers 700,000sqm and consists of four beautiful courtyards and a lavish Harem. The museum houses the finest porcelains, imperial treasures, and a collection of holy relics such as the Holy Mantle of the Prophet Mohammad, the staff of Moses, the sword of David, the robe of Joseph, and more.
When it comes to shopping, Istanbul never disappoints. The Grand Bazaar is a huge covered shopping complex located inside the Walled City of Istanbul. This historical market, built between 1455-1456, comprises a network of souks selling jewelry, souvenirs and gifts, leather, spices and other Turkish specialties to name a few. If you’re great with your bargaining skills, you will definitely come home to some bags full of wonderful and unique items.
Istanbul is one of the few cities in the world that straddles between Asia and Europe. The city is divided by the Bosphorus Strait, or İstanbul Boğazı, which links the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. You can travel over the suspension bridge to cross the borders between two continents, or a more exhilarating experience is to take a cruise down the strait and see Istanbul’s top tourist attractions such as Topkapi Palace, the Maiden’s Tower, the Basilica Cistern, and more.
Constructed during the reign of the Byzantine emperor Justinian I in the 6th century as a water filtration system, the Basilica Cistern is an attraction that has been well preserved over the years. It is the largest of many ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city. Located just near Hagia Sophia, the cistern continues to attract tourists with its impressive 9-meter-long columns, one of which features an intricate carving of Medusa’s head, as well as stunning arched ceilings.
Towering high and dominating Istanbul’s skyline is the striking Galata Tower. This medieval stone tower is 9 stories high and is frequented by visitors for a panoramic view of Istanbul, including a clear view of the Bosphorus Strait. You can take the elevator up to the observatory where there is also a cafe and restaurant available on the top.
Situated along the banks of Bosphorus in Besiktas is the one of the grandest palaces of Istanbul, the Dolmabahçe Palace. Home to the last six Ottoman Sultans and the founder of the Turkish Republic, Ataruk, this palace exudes beauty and extravagance with its European Baroque architecture, as well as being adorned with marble staircases, crystal chandeliers and candelabras, and lush carpets. Make sure to purchase a ticket in advance and take an audio guided tour to visit the rooms and halls of this grand complex.
Also known as Hippodrome, Sultanahmet Square is considered a historical place and the tourist center of Istanbul. It is surrounded by the city’s popular attractions such as Hagia Sophia Museum, the Blue Mosque, and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and other historical sights nearby. Restaurants, cafes, and quaint shops are also lined up in the area so you are sure to enjoy an afternoon stroll here.
Colored tiles, stained glass windows, grand antique columns, and a massive dome, there is no question that the Suleymaniye Mosque is one of the most impressive mosques in Istanbul. Designed between 1549 and 1575 by famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, in honor of Suleiman the Magnificent, the mosque dominates the skyline of Istanbul as it sits on the highest hilltop in the city. From the top, you can see a panoramic view of the city, as well as a view of the Bosphorus Strait.
Istanbul is known for its perfect blend of both European and Islamic cultures and experiences. You can see these mixtures of historical cultures as you visit the Ottoman and Baroque architectural styles of their mosques and museums like the Hagia Sophia Museum, and the Blue Mosque. Go and try their delicious Turkish cuisines, or shop for souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar.
The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring season between April to May, and during autumn season in September to November. These are the times when weather is generally tolerable and the city’s attractions are not overwhelmingly crowded.
Stay in Sultanahmet, on the European side, where you’ll be near all of the city’s main attractions like the museums, mosques, restaurants, and shops. If you’re looking for a more laid-back, inexpensive, but equally beautiful location, you look for accommodations on the Asian side of the city in Üsküdar.