A Guide to Visiting Istanbul: Top Attractions, Tours, and Activities

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Located on the Bosphorus Strait, between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, the city cradles two continents: Europe and Asia. It is a city full of history and culture, where you can find amazing places to visit and explore. From bustling bazaars to stunning mosques and churches, Istanbul has something for everyone.

The History of Istanbul

The history of Istanbul is one of the longest in the world. It has been described as the “capital of capitals”, and has been home to different empires and civilizations over the centuries. It was known as Byzantium in ancient times, and was the capital of the Byzantine Empire until 1453 when it fell to the Ottoman Turks. The city was then renamed Istanbul and became the capital of the Ottoman Empire. After the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Istanbul was declared the country’s new capital.

Today, Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city and economic hub. It is a global city and a major financial, cultural, and tourist destination. With a population of over 15 million people, it is one of the most populous cities in Europe and the world. The city is divided into two parts: the European side and the Asian side. It is known for its historic sites, stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.

The Most Popular Attractions in Istanbul

Istanbul is full of attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Istanbul:

The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) is one of Istanbul’s top tourist attractions. Located in Fatih district on the European side it is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It was built in 1461 and was originally used by merchants to trade their goods. Today, the bazaar is still used as a shopping center with thousands of shops and stalls spread over 61 covered streets. You can find anything from jewelry to carpets, spices, traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and more.

The Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) is an iconic landmark in Istanbul and a must-see for any visitor. Built in 537 AD by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was originally a Greek Orthodox basilica but later served as an imperial mosque during Ottoman rule. Today, it is a museum that houses some of the world’s greatest artworks from different eras including Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman frescoes.

The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1616 by Sultan Ahmet I, it is famous for its stunning interior decorated with blue Iznik tiles that give it its name. The mosque is still used as a place of worship today and still offers stunning views of Hagia Sophia from its large courtyard.

The Bosphorus

The Bosphorus is a strait that separates Europe from Asia and connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. It is one of Istanbul’s most popular attractions and offers stunning views from both sides of the waterway. You can take boat rides to admire its beauty or visit nearby sites such as the Galata Bridge or Beylerbeyi Palace.

The Topkapı Palace

The Topkapı Palace (Topkapı Sarayı) is a must-see for any visitor to Istanbul. Built in 1459 by Sultan Mehmet II, it was once home to Ottoman Sultans and their court. Today, it is a museum that houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Ottoman rule such as jewelry, weapons, armor, ceramics, manuscripts, and more.

Istiklal Avenue

Istiklal Avenue (İstiklal Caddesi) is one of Istanbul’s most famous streets. Located in Beyoglu district on the European side, it is a pedestrian-only street lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, galleries and more. The avenue also hosts many cultural events such as concerts and festivals throughout the year.

Recommended Tours

Visiting Istanbul can be overwhelming for first-time visitors due to its size and diversity. To help you make the most out of your stay in this amazing city, here are some recommended tours that will allow you to explore its top sights:

Full-Day Grand Bazaar Tour

Explore one of Istanbul’s oldest attractions on this full-day grand tour of the Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı). This tour will take you through the labyrinth of streets filled with thousands of stalls selling everything from jewelry to carpets, spices, souvenirs and more. Learn about the history of this iconic market as you explore its hidden corners and uncover its mysteries with your knowledgeable guide. You will also have time to browse through some of its unique shops while your guide gives you tips on bargaining. At the end of this tour you will have a better understanding of this vast market and why it has been an important part of Istanbul’s history for centuries.Book a Grand Bazaar Tour here.

Half-Day Hagia Sophia Tour

Discover Istanbul’s most iconic landmark on this half-day Hagia Sophia Tour (Ayasofya). This tour will take you on a journey through time as your knowledgeable guide tells you about this historic building’s past, from its days as an imperial mosque to its current incarnation as a museum housing some of the world’s greatest artworks from different eras. Explore its stunning interior decorated with Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman frescoes while admiring its grand architecture from outside. At the end of this tour you will leave with a better understanding of why this building has been an important part of Istanbul’s history for centuries.Book a Hagia Sophia Tour here.

Half-Day Bosphorus Cruise

Explore Istanbul’s stunning waterways on this half-day Bosphorus Cruise (Boğaz Turu). This tour will take you on a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus Strait where you can admire its beauty from both sides while taking in some of its most famous sights such as Galata Bridge or Beylerbeyi Palace. Your knowledgeable guide will tell you about these sights as well as other points of interest along the way such as mosques or palaces. At the end of this tour you will have a better understanding of why this strait has been an important part of Istanbul’s history for centuries.Book a Bosphorus Cruise here.

Conclusion

Istanbul is one of the world’s most beautiful cities with an incredibly rich history and culture. From bustling bazaars to stunning mosques and churches, it has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for historic sites or modern attractions, there is something for everyone in this amazing city. To make sure you don’t miss out on its best sights, consider booking one of the recommended tours above or just explore on your own at your own pace. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!