Turkey Istanbul Places To Visit

Turkey Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities, with a history stretching back thousands of years. Located at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a city of diverse cultures, vibrant nightlife, and stunning historic sites. Istanbul has something to offer everyone, from the ancient landmarks of the old city to the modern shopping malls and trendy restaurants of the new. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s history or experience its dynamic culture, there are plenty of places in Istanbul worth visiting.

History of Istanbul

Istanbul is home to a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The city was first founded by Greek settlers in 667 BCE and was known as Byzantium. In 324 CE, it was renamed Constantinople after Roman Emperor Constantine I. In 1453, Constantinople was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and transformed into the capital of a vast Islamic state. The city was renamed Istanbul and remained its capital until 1923, when the Turkish Republic was founded and the capital moved to Ankara.

Today, Istanbul is a sprawling metropolis with a population of over 15 million people. It’s one of the most important cities in Europe, with a rich culture and vast economic opportunities. It’s also a major center for art, music, and nightlife, with countless bars and clubs open until the early hours of the morning. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s something in Istanbul for everyone.

What to Do in Istanbul

With its vibrant culture and stunning historic sites, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy while visiting Istanbul. Here are some of the most popular attractions in the city:

Visit the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest bazaars in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from jewelry and carpets to spices and souvenirs. It’s a great place to browse and bargain for unique items or just soak in the atmosphere of this bustling marketplace.

Explore the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul and a symbol of its rich history. Originally built as a church in 537 CE, it was then transformed into a mosque in 1453 and is now a museum. Inside, you can explore its ornate architecture and view its majestic mosaics, which have been carefully preserved over the centuries.

Take a Cruise on the Bosphorus Strait

The Bosphorus Strait divides Europe from Asia, and taking a cruise on it is one of the best ways to experience Istanbul’s unique location. You can take a boat tour from Eminonu Pier or rent a private yacht to explore the city from the water. Along the way, you can admire stunning views of both continents and get an up-close look at some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks.

Visit Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul and was once home to Ottoman sultans. Today, it’s a museum that houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including jewelry, art, and historical documents, as well as stunning gardens and courtyards.

Explore Istanbul’s Historic Neighborhoods

Istanbul is home to many different neighborhoods that each have their own unique character. Here are some of the most popular ones to explore:

• Taksim – This lively neighborhood is one of Istanbul’s most popular areas for nightlife, shopping, and restaurants.
• Kadikoy – Located on the Asian side of the city, Kadikoy is known for its hip cafes, independent shops, and trendy restaurants.
• Beyoglu – This area is home to many different attractions, including Istiklal Avenue for shopping and Tünel Square for nightlife.
• Sultanahmet – This historic neighborhood is home to many famous landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.

Popular Tours

Visiting Istanbul can be an overwhelming experience due to its sheer size and overwhelming number of attractions. To help visitors explore more easily and make the most of their time in the city, there are many popular tours available. Here are two that you should consider when planning your trip:

Istanbul Sightseeing Tour

Take a comprehensive tour of all of Istanbul’s top attractions with this popular sightseeing tour. The tour includes stops at all of the major landmarks such as Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and many more. You’ll also get to explore some lesser-known attractions such as the Turkish baths and Karakoy neighborhood. The tour also includes plenty of information about each site’s history so you can appreciate them even more deeply.Book a sightseeing tour here.

Bosphorus Cruise

Experience Istanbul from a unique perspective with this popular Bosphorus Cruise. You’ll get to sail down the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia, admiring stunning views of both sides along the way. You’ll also get to view some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks from the water including Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, and Ortakoy Mosque. The cruise includes live commentary in English so you can learn more about each site as you go.Book a Bosphorus cruise here.

Conclusion

Turkey Istanbul is an incredible city with something for everyone to enjoy. From its bustling bazaars and vibrant neighborhoods to its many historic sites and cultural activities, there’s no shortage of things to do while visiting this amazing city. With its long history and diverse culture, Istanbul is sure to be an unforgettable experience that you’ll never forget!