Also known as the city of seven hills, Istanbul has a long list of experiences to offer everyone from luxury travelers to those on a budget. If you are part of the last group. Read on to find out more about the best places to see in Istanbul .
The best places to see in Istanbul during your holidays
Playing a pivotal role in connecting East and West , the city of Istanbul is a treasure trove of history, culture, art, and more. From the towering minarets of mosques to the busy streets of the local bazaar, it is a beautiful confluence of European imperialism and Asian heritage, which is why thousands of tourists flock here every year.
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet)
More than five centuries old, the Sultanahmet Camii, or the Blue Mosque , is a local place of worship, which is also open to tourists. With more than 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles and 200 stained glass windows , the Blue Mosque is a true viewing pleasure that has been pulled from a page in history. Something that sets the Blue Mosque apart from all other mosques in the country is its six distinctive minarets, compared to the usual two or four in the others. This mosque continues to attract tourists from all over the world who come to admire its magnificent architecture and structure.
The construction of this large structure began in the early 17th century , under the rule of Ahmed. Today, the mosque is both a place of worship and a popular tourist attraction, which means that specific visiting hours and rules apply.
The mosque is open from 9 am to 6 pm and is closed during the five prayer call hours. It’s best to visit her mid-morning after the second sentence is finished if you want to avoid the crowd.
Grand bazaar
One of the must see places in Istanbul is one of the largest, oldest and most popular markets in the city ; visiting the Grand Bazaar seems as if you entered 19th century Turkey, with all its colors and fragrances.
From affordable pashmina fabrics to eye-catching lamps and antiques, this market has more than 40,000 shops and 66 streets . You can easily spend a few hours exploring the Bazaar, going from one store to another. Be careful with your belongings and check the map before entering, as it can be overwhelming to find your way out.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace is the largest palace in Turkey and was the main residence of the Ottoman sultans . During the empire, more than 4,000 sultans and military dignitaries resided here with their families. Within the walls are many sacred Islamic relics on display, extensive exhibits, and a museum.
Santa Sofia Cathedral
Built in 532-7AD, Hagia Sophia was the largest Orthodox cathedral in the world until 1520 . It has served as a church for over 900 years and as an imperial mosque for over 400 years.
In 1935, Ataturk, the first president of Turkey, turned it into a museum and it remains an important symbol for both Muslims and Christians. Magnificent mosaics decorate the ceiling and walls , including the famous seraphim, a six-winged angel, and the Deesis mosaic.
This is another must-see tourist attraction in Turkey where you will find a Viking runic image, a column of wishes, five tombs belonging to Ottoman sultans and the tomb of Queen Sofia .
Galata Tower
Considered one of the oldest in Istanbul, the medieval Galata Tower is one of the dominant buildings on the Galata skyline . It is believed that in the 17th century one of the first aviators, Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi, made a flight with artificial wings from here over the Bosphorus, an impressive journey of almost six kilometers. Climb up to the 51-meter observation deck for 360⁰ panoramic views and imagine what that flight would have been like.
Basilica Cistern
Enter the Basilica Cistern, also known as the Sunken Palace, and be mesmerized by the scale of this subterranean world below Istanbul.
Located near Hagia Sophia, the entrance is very narrow. Once inside, the chambers open up to high ceilings and more than 300 ornate pillars . Visitors are drawn to two Medusa heads and the mystery surrounding their meaning in the cistern. You’ll also find pools of wishes and fish.
Fener and Balat neighborhoods
The streets of Fener and Balat are lined with colorful old-style houses and hidden churches , making for a great walk around town. These unusual neighborhoods offer an idea of the daily life of the inhabitants of Istanbul who live in a city rich in history and culture.
These are other places you have to see in Istanbul to admire architectural structures such as the old Greek Orthodox College, the Yavuz Selim Mosque , and to have a Turkish coffee in one of the many authentic cafes in the area.
Bomonti flea market
Although most of Istanbul’s tourist attractions are closed on Sundays, the Bomonti flea market, a favorite with locals, remains open on this day. Here you will find almost everything, from old cameras to watches, vinyls, among other antiques . You can even try some delicious local sweets for free in stores before buying some to take home with you.
Elgiz Museum of Contemporary Art
Formerly known as Proje4L , this museum was founded more than a decade ago to promote contemporary art in the city. Although this museum exhibits some classics by Gilbert & George, Cindy Sherman and Barbara Kruger , it also regularly exhibits works by young emerging and local artists . Located in one of the city’s skyscrapers, on its outdoor terrace you can also admire experimental works of art made with mixed techniques.
