Things To See In Istanbul

Istanbul has been a hub of culture and commerce since the days of the Ottoman Empire. It’s the largest city in Turkey and home to a diverse population of nearly 15 million people. It’s a city that has grown and changed through the centuries, but still retains its rich heritage and culture. From ancient mosques and palaces to bustling markets and vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Istanbul. Here is a guide to help you explore the city and make the most of your trip.

General Information About Istanbul

Istanbul is located on the Bosporus strait, which connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. It is the only city in the world that lies on two continents, Europe and Asia. The city is divided by the strait into two districts, European Istanbul and Asian Istanbul. Istanbul is one of the oldest cities in the world and has served as a capital for various empires throughout its long history. The city is renowned for its rich culture, which dates back thousands of years. It is known for its beautiful architecture, varied cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and rich history.

The History Of Istanbul

The area that is now Istanbul has been occupied since at least 1000 BC, when it was known as Byzantium. It was later conquered by the Romans, who made it their capital in 330 AD, renaming it Constantinople. The city fell to the Ottomans in 1453 and was renamed Istanbul. The city served as the capital of the Ottoman Empire for over 500 years and was home to an incredible variety of cultures and influences. After World War I, the Ottoman Empire was dissolved and Istanbul became part of the Republic of Turkey, which declared its independence in 1923.

What To See In Istanbul

Istanbul is a city of immense beauty, with something to offer everyone. From stunning architecture to bustling markets, there are plenty of things to see and do in Istanbul. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Istanbul:

The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. Built in 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I, the mosque is renowned for its six soaring minarets and exquisite blue İznik tiles. Every day thousands of visitors come to admire this beautiful building, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul.

The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It dates back to the 15th century and is home to over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets and jewelry to spices and souvenirs. It’s a great place to find unique gifts or just explore and experience Turkish culture.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was once home to the Ottoman Sultans and is now a museum complex. It consists of four courtyards filled with lush gardens, magnificent buildings, and stunning views of the Bosporus strait. The palace also houses an impressive collection of artifacts from throughout the Ottoman Empire, including jewelry, clothing, and weapons.

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is an awe-inspiring building that has served as a church, mosque, and museum throughout its long history. Built in 537 AD as a Christian basilica, it was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman period and eventually became a museum in 1935. The building is renowned for its stunning mosaics, which date back hundreds of years.

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower that stands tall over Istanbul’s historic Galata district. The tower was built in 1348 by Genoese merchants and offers stunning views over the city. At the base of the tower is a bustling marketplace where visitors can find traditional foods, souvenirs, and handmade crafts.

Istanbul Aquarium

The Istanbul Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. It houses over 15,000 sea creatures in more than 70 tanks. Visitors can explore a variety of fascinating habitats from tropical jungles to deep-sea trenches as they observe sharks, jellyfish, sea turtles, and other sea life up close.

Popular Tours In Istanbul

Istanbul offers an array of tours for visitors to explore its unique attractions. From food tours to boat trips on the Bosporus strait, there’s something for everyone in Istanbul. Here are two popular tours that you can book on Viator or GetYourGuide:

Old City Istanbul Tour

Discover the history of Istanbul on this comprehensive tour of its ancient monuments and neighborhoods. You’ll explore some of the city’s oldest sights such as Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia as well as bustling bazaars like Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar. You’ll also get a chance to take in spectacular views of Istanbul from Galata Tower. Book an Old City Istanbul Tour here.

Evening Bosphorus Cruise Tour

Experience the beauty of Istanbul from a different perspective with an evening cruise along the Bosporus strait. You’ll sail past iconic attractions such as Dolmabahce Palace and Galata Bridge as you take in stunning views of both European and Asian sides of Istanbul from the deck of your boat. Book an Evening Bosphorus Cruise Tour here.

Conclusion

Istanbul is a vibrant city with something for everyone. From ancient monuments to modern attractions, there’s something new to experience every day in this beautiful city. Whether you’re looking to explore historic sites or just soak up the unique atmosphere of this bustling metropolis, there’s no shortage of things to do in Istanbul. So start planning your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!