A Guide to the Best Places to Go in Istanbul

Istanbul is a vibrant and diverse city that has been enchanting visitors for centuries. Located on the Bosporus Strait between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, Istanbul is a major city in both Turkey and Europe. It is the largest city in Turkey and the third-most populous city in Europe, with an estimated population of nearly 15 million people.

Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities, with a rich history dating back to the 7th century BC. It has been an important center of trade and culture for centuries, with many empires, cultures and religions leaving their mark on the city. The city has a unique mix of East and West, with modern architecture and luxurious shopping areas side-by-side with ancient Roman ruins and traditional bazaars. The city is also known for its beautiful mosques, vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine.

The city is divided into two sides by the Bosporus Strait, with the European side located on the west bank of the river and the Asian side on the east. Each side has its own unique attractions, making it easy to explore both sides of Istanbul in one visit. Whether you’re looking for ancient monuments, modern museums or delicious food, Istanbul has something for everyone.

Exploring Istanbul’s Historic Sites

Istanbul is full of historic sites and monuments that are worth exploring. The most famous of these sites is the Hagia Sophia, which was built in 537 AD as a Christian basilica by the Roman Emperor Justinian I. After many years of use as a church, it was converted into a mosque in 1453 after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Today, it is a museum that is open to the public and showcases both Islamic and Christian artifacts.

The Blue Mosque is another popular site in Istanbul that was built between 1609 and 1616. It is known for its stunning blue-tiled interior walls and six minarets. The Blue Mosque is still an active mosque today and is open to visitors who follow the proper dress code. Other historic sites in Istanbul include Topkapi Palace, formerly the seat of Ottoman power, and the Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir built during the Byzantine period.

Shopping & Food in Istanbul

Istanbul is a great place to shop and explore traditional Turkish markets. The Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, with over 58 streets and 4,000 shops. It offers a variety of goods including carpets, jewelry, spices and leather goods, as well as traditional Turkish souvenirs. The Spice Bazaar is another popular market, located near the waterfront and known for its colorful shops selling spices, nuts, dried fruits and more.

For visitors looking for a more modern shopping experience, Istanbul has plenty of contemporary malls and boutiques to explore. Istinye Park is one of the largest shopping centers in Europe, with over 300 stores including designer labels such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Other popular malls include Cevahir Shopping Center and Kanyon Shopping Mall.

Istanbul also offers a variety of delicious food options for visitors to enjoy. There are traditional Turkish dishes such as kebabs, mezes (appetizers) and baklava (pastry with nuts), as well as international cuisines from around the world. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with stunning views of the Bosporus Strait, making it easy to enjoy dinner with a view.

Tours & Activities to Enjoy in Istanbul

There are many tours and activities available to visitors who want to explore Istanbul’s unique attractions. One popular tour is a full-day Bosphorus Cruise that takes visitors along the Bosporus Strait and stops at sites such as Rumeli Fortress and Ortakoy Mosque. The cruise also passes by famous palaces such as Dolmabahce Palace and Beylerbeyi Palace, as well as numerous villages along the way. It’s a great way to get an overview of Istanbul’s unique sites and attractions in one day.

Visitors can also explore Istanbul on foot with one of the many walking tours available. A great way to explore Istanbul’s old city is on a guided walking tour of Sultanahmet Square, where you can visit sites such as Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Other walking tours include exploring the Spice Bazaar or discovering Istanbul’s hidden gems in its narrow alleyways.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Visitors can learn about traditional Turkish culture by taking a cooking or Turkish delight making class, or enjoy an evening out at one of Istanbul’s many bars or clubs. There are also several cultural tours available such as a tour of Istanbul’s historic hammams (Turkish baths), or a tour of the city’s Islamic art galleries.

Tours & Activities to Book

One popular tour that visitors can book is an Iznik tile-making class at Yucelen Studios located in Sultanahmet Square. This class offers visitors an insight into traditional Ottoman art by teaching them how to make Iznik tiles using traditional methods. Participants will be given all the materials they need to create their own unique tile designs and will be able to take their creations home with them at the end of the lesson. You can book an Iznik tile-making class here.

Another popular tour is a guided walking tour of Sultanahmet Square with a local guide who will provide insights into Istanbul’s history and culture. Guests will be taken around the square’s main attractions such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Blue Mosque, learning about the history behind each site along the way. At the end of the tour guests will be able to enjoy traditional Turkish tea or coffee at one of Sultanahmet’s quaint cafes. You can book a guided walking tour here.

Finally, visitors can book an exciting boat tour along the Bosporus Strait where they can enjoy breathtaking views of Istanbul’s unique skyline while passing by important sites such as Rumeli Fortress and Ortakoy Mosque. Guests can also learn more about Istanbul’s maritime history while enjoying snacks and drinks onboard. You can book a Bosphorus Cruise here.

Conclusion

Istanbul is one of the world’s most fascinating cities with a rich history and vibrant culture that offers something for everyone. From exploring ancient monuments to shopping at modern malls and trying delicious Turkish cuisine, visitors can find plenty to do in this magnificent city. There are also many tours and activities available for visitors to book, from Iznik tile-making classes to guided walking tours and Bosphorus cruises. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Istanbul, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!