Best Places To Visit In Istanbul

Istanbul, the city of empires and a place where two continents meet, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Located on the Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul spans Europe and Asia, making it an exciting destination for any traveler. From its vibrant nightlife and amazing restaurants, to its rich history and culture, Istanbul is a city that has something for everyone. With its stunning architecture and vibrant culture, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in Istanbul. Whether you’re interested in learning about the city’s past or experiencing the modern-day hustle and bustle, there are plenty of great places to visit in Istanbul.

History of Istanbul

Istanbul has a long and fascinating history that dates back centuries. Founded by the Greeks in the 7th century BC, Istanbul was once known as Byzantium. The city quickly grew in size and importance, becoming the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire in 330 AD and renamed Constantinople. It wasn’t until 1453 that Constantinople became part of the Ottoman Empire, when it was conquered by Sultan Mehmet II. The city was then renamed Istanbul and served as the capital of the Ottoman Empire until its fall in 1923.

Today, Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, with a population of over 15 million people. It is a bustling metropolis, with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant nightlife. From ancient ruins and opulent palaces to bustling markets and modern skyscrapers, Istanbul has something for everyone.

Must-See Places

Istanbul is home to a number of historic sites, beautiful parks, and modern attractions. Here are some of the must-see places to visit in Istanbul:

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is one of the most important monuments in Istanbul and a symbol of the city. The massive domed structure was originally built as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral in 537 AD, but was later converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Empire in 1453. Today, Hagia Sophia is a museum and one of the most visited attractions in Istanbul. It is home to stunning artwork, including mosaics and frescoes, as well as marble pillars and intricately carved stone decorations.

The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. The beautiful mosque was built in 1609 by Sultan Ahmet I and is renowned for its stunning blue tiles that adorn its walls and ceilings. The mosque features six minarets and can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers at once. The Blue Mosque is one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul and a must-see for any visitor.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is an Ottoman imperial palace located in the heart of Istanbul. Built between 1459 and 1465, it served as the royal residence of sultans for almost 400 years. Today, it is one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to stunning architecture and artifacts that provide insight into the Ottoman Empire’s history.

Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant attractions. Located in the Eminonu district, the bazaar has been selling spices since 1664. Today, it is home to over 80 shops selling everything from exotic spices to nuts and dried fruit. The Spice Bazaar is a great place to explore and experience the sights, sounds and smells of Istanbul.

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is a historic structure located in the Galata neighborhood of Istanbul. Built in 1348, it was once used as an observation tower to monitor sea traffic in the Bosphorus Strait. Today, it is one of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.

Popular Activities

Istanbul is home to a number of popular activities that visitors can enjoy during their stay. Here are some of the most popular activities for visitors to enjoy in Istanbul:

Bosphorus Cruise

A Bosphorus cruise is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Istanbul. The cruise takes passengers on a journey through the Bosphorus Strait, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. During the cruise, passengers can admire stunning views of both Europe and Asia while enjoying traditional Turkish music and food onboard.

Turkish Baths

Visiting a Turkish bath (or hammam) is a great way to relax and experience local culture while in Istanbul. These traditional baths offer a range of treatments such as cleansing rituals, massage therapies, body scrubs, and more. Visitors can experience these hammams during their stay to soak up some local culture while enjoying some much-needed relaxation.

Walking Tours

Taking a walking tour is one of the best ways to explore all that Istanbul has to offer. Visitors can join guided walking tours that take them through some of Istanbul’s most famous neighborhoods such as Sultanahmet (the old city), Beyoglu (the modern city), and Taksim Square. On these tours, visitors can learn about the city’s history and culture while admiring its stunning architecture and monuments.

Shopping

Istanbul is a great destination for shopping enthusiasts. From bustling markets to modern malls, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Visitors can enjoy everything from bargaining for souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar to window shopping at designer stores on Istiklal Avenue. Whatever your style or budget, you’re sure to find something you love when shopping in Istanbul.

Popular Tours

In addition to exploring the city independently on foot or via public transportation, visitors can also book guided tours that offer an insight into Istanbul’s past and present. Here are two popular tours that visitors can book while visiting Istanbul:

Full Day Historical Tour

This full-day historical tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. The tour also includes stops at some lesser-known attractions such as Basilica Cistern and Suleymaniye Mosque to give visitors an insight into Istanbul’s long history and vibrant culture. The tour also includes visits to other attractions such as Spice Bazaar and Galata Tower as well as a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Book a Full Day Historical Tour here.

Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour

This popular sightseeing tour takes visitors on a leisurely cruise through the waters of the Bosphorus Strait for about two hours. During the cruise, passengers can admire stunning views of both Europe and Asia while enjoying onboard entertainment such as traditional music performances and delicious Turkish food. This tour also includes stops at some iconic landmarks such as Maiden Tower and Dolmabahce Palace as well as an onboard visit to an Ottoman-style mansion called Beylerbeyi Palace. Book a Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour here.

At the end of your visit, you will have experienced all that Istanbul has to offer – beautiful sights, interesting stories, delicious food, and memorable experiences! Whether you are looking for a cultural experience or just want to relax on a sightseeing cruise, Istanbul has something for everyone! With its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, rich history, and amazing food scene, there’s no doubt why it’s one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations!