Top Places To Visit In Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most popular cities in the world and a great place to visit for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience. Located in the country of Turkey, Istanbul is a city steeped in history and culture, with a unique blend of East and West that is sure to leave any visitor mesmerized.

The city was founded by Greek settlers in 667BC, and has since seen a wide variety of rulers and civilisations come and go. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, from the ancient walls of Constantinople to the grandiose mosques of the Ottoman era. It is also home to some of the world’s best museums, including the world-famous Topkapı Palace.

Istanbul is home to around 15 million people, making it the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest cities in Europe. It’s a vibrant city with plenty to do and see; from shopping in the Grand Bazaar to cruising along the Bosphorus, there’s something for everyone here. Here are some of the top places to visit in Istanbul:

Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks and a must-see for any visitor. It was originally built as a Christian church in AD537, but was later converted into an Islamic mosque after the city was conquered by the Ottomans in 1453. Today, it stands as a museum, displaying beautiful mosaics, marble columns and a vast dome that still stands as an impressive testament to its Byzantine past.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for any visitor. Also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, it was built between 1609 and 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I and is renowned for its stunning interior design featuring beautiful blue Iznik tiles. The mosque also houses a magnificent domed ceiling and six minarets, making it one of the most impressive buildings in the city.

Topkapı Palace

Topkapı Palace was once the home of the Ottoman sultans and their court and is one of Istanbul’s most popular attractions. It is also home to some of the world’s finest collections of Islamic art and artefacts, including an impressive armoury and ancient manuscripts. Visitors can also explore the magnificent Harem section with its maze-like corridors, courtyards and lush gardens.

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is one of Istanbul’s most recognisable landmarks and offers some of the best views in the city. Originally built as part of the fortifications of Galata in 1348, it stands at an impressive 66 metres tall and offers stunning views over the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. Visitors can also enjoy a meal or a drink at the viewing terrace at the top of the tower.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of Istanbul’s most famous attractions and a must-visit for any visitor. With over 4,000 shops spread across more than 60 streets, it is one of the largest covered markets in the world. The bazaar is full of life, with vendors selling everything from spices to carpets, souvenirs to jewellery. It’s also a great place to pick up some bargains!

Bosphorus Cruise

A cruise along the Bosphorus is one of the best ways to experience Istanbul. It offers stunning views of both sides of the city, with its mix of Ottoman palaces, modern skyscrapers, bridges, mosques and more. There are plenty of cruises available ranging from short sightseeing trips to full-day excursions with stops at some of Istanbul’s popular attractions.

Turkish Baths

A visit to a Turkish bath is an essential part of any trip to Istanbul. Popularly known as “hamams’, these baths are an integral part of Turkish culture and offer visitors a unique way to relax and unwind after a long day exploring the city. There are plenty of traditional hamams around Istanbul, offering traditional massages as well as steam baths and saunas.

Dolmabahce Palace

The Dolmabahce Palace is one of Istanbul’s most impressive landmarks and a must-see for any visitor. Built in 1856 by Sultan Abdulmecid I, it stands as an impressive testament to the Ottoman Empire’s wealth and power. Visitors can explore the palace’s many grand halls filled with artefacts from the Ottoman era, as well as its lush gardens and impressive views over the Bosphorus.

Popular Tours

If you want to make your visit to Istanbul even more memorable, there are plenty of great tours available that will take you to some of the city’s most popular attractions. Here are two popular tours that you can book in advance:

Historic Istanbul Tour

This 4-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through Istanbul’s history, beginning with a visit to Topkapı Palace before moving on to other important sites such as Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Galata Tower and more. Along the way, visitors will learn about each site’s history and significance in Istanbul’s past. The tour also includes a delicious traditional Turkish lunch at one of Istanbul’s most popular restaurants. Book a Historic Istanbul Tour here.

Bosphorus Cruise Tour

This 3-hour cruise along the Bosphorus offers stunning views of both sides of Istanbul from the comfort of your boat. As you cruise along, you will pass by important sites such as Dolmabahce Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Maiden’s Tower and more while learning about their history from your guide. The tour also includes lunch on board and plenty of time for taking photos. Book a Bosphorus Cruise Tour here.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Istanbul, these are just some of the top places to visit during your stay. From ancient ruins to lovely gardens, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy! With its fascinating history, vibrant culture and stunning architecture, you won’t be disappointed when you visit this incredible city!