Istanbul Things To See

Istanbul is an amazing city that has long been a popular tourist destination. It is a city of distinction, a major commercial center, and a place of culture and history, a city of breathtaking beauty and spectacular sights. Istanbul is the unique city that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia, and it has been a major center of trade, education, and culture since the time of the Ottoman Empire.

As one of the oldest cities in the world, Istanbul has been a home to many different cultures and civilizations over the centuries, from the Greeks and Romans to the Ottomans and Byzantines. It is also home to some of the most famous monuments in the world, like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Galata Tower. Each of these sights offers visitors a unique insight into Istanbul’s incredible history.

Istanbul has an incredibly diverse population and is one of the most populated cities in the world. With its people come different cultures and religions which makes it an incredibly vibrant place to visit. As well as the sights, there’s a wide variety of restaurants and bars to explore, as well as plenty of interesting markets to visit. Istanbul is well known for its nightlife too, with plenty of bars and clubs offering music, dancing, and great food.

Things To See In Istanbul

Istanbul is full of spectacular sights to explore. Here are some of the most iconic things to see in this vibrant city:

The Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. It was originally built as a Christian church in 532 by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I, but was later converted into an Islamic mosque by the Ottoman sultans. Today it serves as a museum and is one of the most visited attractions in Istanbul. Inside the Hagia Sophia you’ll find beautiful Byzantine mosaics, marble floors, and stunning Islamic art.

The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic sights in Istanbul and one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. Built in 1609 by Sultan Ahmed I, it is renowned for its stunning interior which is decorated with vibrant blue tiles. Inside the mosque you’ll find beautiful mosaics, marble columns, and ornate chandeliers. The Blue Mosque is also known for its six minarets which are visible from across the city.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is a sprawling complex that was built in 1459 by Sultan Mehmed II. It served as one of the primary residences for Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Today it serves as a museum, where visitors can explore its ornate rooms and courtyards, as well as its beautiful gardens and pavilions. Inside you’ll find stunning artwork, furniture, jewelry, and much more.

The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of Istanbul’s most iconic attractions. It is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world with more than 4,000 shops located within its walls. Whether you’re looking for a souvenir or some traditional Turkish food or clothing, the Grand Bazaar has it all. The bazaar is often crowded but it’s a great place to haggle with shopkeepers and explore Istanbul’s vibrant culture.

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1348 by Genoese traders, it served as a defense tower until it was converted into an observatory in 1717. Today it is one of the best places to get views of Istanbul’s skyline. The tower also has a restaurant located on its upper floors, offering stunning views of Istanbul at night.

Istanbul Modern

Istanbul Modern is a contemporary art museum located on the Bosporus Strait. It was opened in 2004 and showcases some of the best Turkish and international contemporary art. The museum also hosts regular exhibitions, events, and educational programs throughout the year. It’s the perfect place to experience some of Istanbul’s vibrant modern culture.

Popular Tours

In addition to exploring Istanbul’s many sights on your own, there are several popular tours that you can take to make your visit even more memorable. Here are two popular tours that you should consider when planning your trip to Istanbul:

Full Day Sightseeing Tour

This full-day sightseeing tour takes you around some of Istanbul’s top attractions, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, and more. During the tour you’ll get to explore these sights with an experienced guide who will provide insights into the history and culture of Istanbul. You’ll also have time to explore each sight on your own and take photos along the way. Book a sightseeing tour here for an unforgettable experience in Istanbul!

Bosphorus Cruise

The Bosphorus Cruise is one of the most popular activities in Istanbul. During this two-hour cruise you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of both sides of the Bosporus Strait from your boat as you sail past historic sights like Topkapi Palace and Dolmabahce Palace. The cruise also includes onboard entertainment such as traditional Turkish music and belly dancing performances. Book a Bosphorus Cruise here for a unique experience in Istanbul!

Istanbul is an incredible city full of unique sights, activities, and experiences that are sure to make your visit unforgettable. From exploring ancient monuments to cruising down the Bosporus Strait, there is something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for culture, history, or just some fun in the sun, you’re sure to find it in Istanbul!

Istanbul Things To See: Frequently Asked Questions

Istanbul is a unique city that bridges two continents and offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. With so much to offer, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors to Istanbul to know where to start exploring. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul things to see to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this fascinating city.

What are the top historical attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is famous for its rich history, and there are many historical attractions that you won’t want to miss. Some of the top historical attractions in Istanbul include:

1. Hagia Sophia

A former Orthodox patriarchal basilica, later a mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia is one of the most impressive historical attractions in Istanbul. Built in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian, Hagia Sophia has played an important role in the history of Istanbul and is a must-see attraction for any visitor to the city.

2. Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was the home of the Ottoman Sultans for over 400 years and is a magnificent example of Ottoman architecture. Today, the palace is a museum that houses many important artifacts from Ottoman history, including the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Topkapi Diamond.

3. Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul. Completed in the early 17th century, the mosque is famous for its beautiful blue tiles, which adorn the interior walls.

What are some natural attractions to visit in Istanbul?

In addition to its historical attractions, Istanbul also boasts some beautiful natural areas that visitors will enjoy. Some of the top natural attractions in Istanbul include:

1. The Bosphorus

The Bosphorus is a strait that separates the European and Asian sides of Istanbul and is a beautiful natural attraction. Visitors can take a boat tour on the Bosphorus to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy the natural beauty of the strait.

2. Belgrade Forest

Belgrade Forest is a large forested area on the European side of Istanbul and is a popular destination for hiking and picnicking. The forest is home to many different species of plants and animals and is a peaceful retreat from the chaos of the city.

3. Prince Islands

The Prince Islands are a group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara that are popular with visitors looking to escape the city for a day. Visitors can take a ferry to the islands and enjoy the beautiful beaches, forests, and historic buildings on the islands.

What are some cultural attractions to visit in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a melting pot of different cultures and has a rich cultural heritage that visitors can explore. Some of the top cultural attractions in Istanbul include:

1. Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is a massive indoor market that dates back to the 15th century and is one of the largest indoor markets in the world. Visitors can shop for everything from carpets to spices to jewelry in the bazaar, which is home to over 3,000 shops.

2. Turkish Baths

Turkish baths, also known as hammams, are a traditional part of Turkish culture and are a popular attraction for visitors. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing spa experience at one of Istanbul’s many historic hammams, which offer a range of treatments and services.

3. Whirling Dervishes

The Whirling Dervishes are a Sufi religious order that originated in Turkey and are known for their unique style of dance. Visitors can watch a performance of the Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul, which is a mesmerizing experience.

What are some lesser-known attractions to visit in Istanbul?

While there are many popular attractions in Istanbul, there are also some lesser-known attractions that are worth visiting. Some of these include:

1. Chora Church

Chora Church, also known as the Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora, is a Byzantine church that is famous for its beautiful mosaics and frescoes. The church dates back to the 4th century and is a hidden gem that is not as well-known as some of Istanbul’s other historical attractions.

2. Istanbul Modern

Istanbul Modern is a contemporary art museum that showcases the work of Turkish and international artists. The museum is located on the waterfront in a converted warehouse and is a great place to explore modern Turkish art.

3. Miniaturk

Miniaturk is a miniature park that features over 100 models of Turkish landmarks, including mosques, palaces, and bridges. Visitors can explore the park and get a unique perspective on some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks.

Conclusion

Istanbul is a city of many attractions, both historical and natural, that offer visitors a unique travel experience. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to Istanbul, but by focusing on the top historical, natural, and cultural attractions, visitors can make the most of their time in this fascinating city. Additionally, by exploring some of the lesser-known attractions in Istanbul, visitors can discover hidden gems that will make their trip even more memorable.