What are the Best Tourist Spots in Istanbul?

Istanbul is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is a city around the Golden Horn, connecting the continents of Europe and Asia. Istanbul is packed with amazing historical sites, stunning architecture, and a rich culture. If you are planning a visit to Istanbul, here is a list of some of the best spots to see while you are there.

Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is a beautiful structure that was converted into a Muslim mosque after the fall of Constantinople in 1453. It is one of the most visited sites in Turkey and often considered as Istanbul’s crown jewel. You can admire its breathtaking architecture and marvel at its iconic dome, which has stood for over 1,400 years.

Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern, otherwise known as Yerebatan Saray, is an underground reservoir that lies beneath Istanbul’s Sultanahmet Square. It was built by Emperor Justinian in 532 AD and contains 336 columns in 12 rows. The acoustics within the cistern are incredible and there are regular concerts held at night with classical music echoing through the underground chamber.

The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar has been a busy marketplace since 1461 and is one of the oldest, most attractive, and largest covered markets in the world. It contains over 4000 shops covering an area of over 30,000 square meters and is one of the busiest places in Istanbul. Whether you’re in search of intricate items of jewelry, authentic carpets or traditional spices, you’re sure to find it all in here.

Dolmabahçe Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace is an Ottoman Imperial residence that lies on the European shore of the Bosporus Strait in Istanbul. It was designed by Armenian-Ottoman architect Garabet Balyan and took 14 years to complete. The palace features 285 rooms, 43 salons, 6 baths, and 4 hamams and is considered to be one of the world’s most opulent royal residences.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was built between 1460-1478 and served as the political and administrative center of the Ottoman Empire for over 400 years. This beautiful palace complex contains numerous courtyards and halls filled with over 400,000 pieces of art and jewelry. Visitors can explore harems, treasure museums, and some remarkable mosques such as the rustic Suleymaniye Mosque.

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower was originally built by the Genoese traders in 1348 and stands at an impressive height of 66 meters tall. You can experience breathtaking views while atop the tower and enjoy watching minarets that stretch towards the horizon illuminated by brilliant lights at night. The tower contains a cafe, steakhouse restaurant, and night club and is one of Istanbul’s must-see attractions.

Chora Church

The Chora Church was formerly known as the Kariye Museum or Church of the Holy Savior and has existed from even before Constantinople became Istanbul in 1453. It contains amazing preserved mosaics and frescoes from the Byzantine era which have provided valuable insight into Christian iconography during that period.

Süleymaniye Mosque

Süleymaniye Mosque is an awe-inspiring religious monument built by Suleiman the Magnificent in 1557 and named after him. This iconic building contains four minarets, soaring domes, and exquisite marble pillars that make it one of the city’s most impressive sights. Tourists flock here to admire its beauty both on the inside and outside.

These are some of the best tourist spots you must visit while in Istanbul. Depending on the length of your stay, you can also combine sightseeing with a delightful Turkish cruise around the Bosporus Strait. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or architecture, Istanbul has something for everyone! To learn more about other fascinating attractions to visit during your stay, check out this excellent guide from Acdfatresi.

An Insider’s Guide to Hidden Gems in Istanbul

Istanbul, the city of two continents, has a rich and energetic culture with a history that dates back thousands of years. Located where the Black Sea meets the Sea of Marmara, this cosmopolitan city has charmed travelers for millennia. While tourists flock to the obvious attractions like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, or Topkapi Palace, there are plenty of hidden gems that only locals would know. Here is an insider’s guide to some of the best-kept secrets of Istanbul.

Local Attractions

For breathtaking views of the city, visit the Galata Tower. This medieval stone tower has an observation deck that offers panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline. You can also catch a glimpse of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus from here.

If you’re interested in contemporary art, head to Istanbul Modern, located on the edge of the Bosphorus. This sleek museum showcases the works of some of Turkey’s leading contemporary artists and also has a fantastic restaurant on the top floor, offering breathtaking views of the city.

Another lesser-known gem is the Chora Church. Unlike the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, this Byzantine church is smaller but still remarkable, with stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. A visit here offers a unique perspective on Istanbul’s rich history.

Dining Spots

Istanbul’s cuisine has been shaped by its multicultural history, and the result is an incredible array of flavors. For a taste of traditional Turkish food, head to Balikci Sabahattin. This family-run seafood restaurant is tucked away in the side streets of Kumkapi and serves up some of the freshest fish in the city.

If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, try Mikla. Chef Mehmet Gürs serves up an inventive and modern take on Turkish cuisine, with unforgettable dishes like stuffed lamb’s neck and quince leather.

To get a taste of Istanbul’s street food culture, grab a simit from one of the street vendors selling these sesame-covered bagels. They’re a perfect snack while strolling through the city.

Cultural Experiences

Istanbul is a city rich in culture and history, and it’s reflected in its art, music, and customs. Catch a performance of the Whirling Dervishes, a Sufi ceremony that involves ritual dancing and spinning. Journeys to Antiquity highly recommends this as a must-see cultural experience when visiting Istanbul.

If you’re interested in Istanbul’s music scene, check out a concert at Babylon. This music venue in the vibrant neighborhood of Beyoglu has hosted international and local artists across a range of genres, from jazz to indie rock.

Visit the Grand Bazaar for a deep dive into one of Istanbul’s customs- bargaining. This massive covered market is a labyrinth of shops selling everything from spices to jewelry to Turkish rugs. It’s the perfect place to practice your haggling skills.

Local History

The history of Istanbul is vast and fascinating, stretching back centuries. One of the most captivating stories regards the Basilica Cistern. This underground water reservoir is said to have been built during the reign of Emperor Justinian and was forgotten for centuries until it was rediscovered in the 16th century. Take a tour of the Cistern, and you’ll see the giant Medusa heads at the base of two columns, an eerie reminder of its ancient origins.

Another spot that reveals Istanbul’s layered history is the Ottoman Bank Museum. This stately neoclassical structure once served as the headquarters of the Ottoman Bank and now houses a museum detailing not only the history of the building but also that of Istanbul itself.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

For a unique experience, head to the Princes’ Islands. These nine islands in the Sea of Marmara are free of cars and offer a quiet respite from the bustle of Istanbul. Rent a bike and explore the pine forests, beaches, and charming Ottoman-era mansions.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a ferry to Kadikoy. This neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul is brimming with life. Wander through the colorful market stalls, relax in a tea garden, and explore the many cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Finally, why not take a Turkish bath? The Galatasaray Hammam is a stunning example of Ottoman-era architecture and offers a traditional Turkish bath experience with massages and tea to follow. Journeys to Antiquity highly recommends it to end your visit to Istanbul on the perfect cultural note.

From hidden gems to popular attractions, Istanbul has something to offer every traveler. This insider’s guide reveals just a handful of the many fascinating and varied things to do in this incredible city.