Istanbul manages to attract visitors from all over the world throughout the year. As an extraordinary city blending history and culture, it offers hundreds of unique experiences to its visitors. This magical metropolis, which brings together the traces of the past with the dynamic atmosphere of the modern world, is full of surprises waiting to be discovered in every corner. In this city, featured in many films, you can see cultures and places you won’t find anywhere else in the world. With our blog content highlighting 10 key destinations among the “best places to visit in Istanbul,” you’ll have the opportunity to get to know Istanbul better. Before your trip, you can check out our list for comprehensive suggestions, ranging from religious and spiritual sites to historical palaces. If you’re ready, let’s embark on a journey to top places in Istanbul.
Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)
When thinking about the best places to visit in Istanbul, one of the first places that comes to mind is undoubtedly the Grand Bazaar. Known as one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, it boasts around 4,000 shops. The vibrant harmony of sounds, scents, and sights in the market will provide you with an unforgettable experience. Inside the Grand Bazaar, you can find everything from traditional Turkish handicrafts and valuable jewelry to colorful carpets and spices. Handmade ceramics, textile products, and souvenirs from Istanbul are particularly popular.
In 2014, the Grand Bazaar was ranked as the most visited tourist destination in the world. The Bazaar’s fame extends beyond shopping; its colorful and bustling atmosphere was featured in the famous James Bond film “Skyfall,” which helped increase its global recognition.
Princes’ Islands (Adalar)
For those looking to escape Istanbul’s hustle and bustle and enjoy a peaceful, nature-filled experience, the Princes’ Islands are a must-visit. They offer unique dining, swimming, and accommodation options for both locals and tourists. Located in the Sea of Marmara, this archipelago consists of five islands: Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, Kınalıada, and Sedef Island. Each island has its own distinctive features and beauty, waiting to be explored. You can swim at the beaches, savor all kinds of delicacies at fish restaurants, and bike through the quiet island streets.
Reaching the Princes’ Islands is quite easy; you can get to the islands quickly via sea taxis and ferries that depart from various points in Istanbul at regular intervals throughout the week.
Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)
In the heart of Istanbul, just below Sultanahmet Square, lies the Basilica Cistern, a captivating relic from the Byzantine era. Built in the 6th century, this impressive water reservoir resembles an underground palace with its colossal columns and mystical ambiance. The 336 columns within the cistern create a magnificent visual and structural impact; particularly, the two columns with Medusa’s head capitals attract visitors’ attention. The Basilica Cistern is a must-see for anyone who loves to explore historical and mysterious places in Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
One of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, the magnificent Hagia Sophia, stands with grandeur in the historic Sultanahmet Square. Originally built as a church by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537, this monumental structure was converted into a mosque following the Ottoman Empire’s conquest in 1453 and was used as a mosque again starting in 2020. The colossal structure reflects both Byzantine and Ottoman architectural and artistic features.
Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)
One of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, Galata Tower creates a striking silhouette in the historic Galata district. Built in the 14th century, this stone tower stands 67 meters tall, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul‘s magnificent cityscape. The tower provides visitors with a chance to see the historical city walls, the Bosphorus, and Istanbul’s modern skyline all at once. Additionally, the various restaurants and cafes surrounding the tower offer a pleasant opportunity to take a break while enjoying this unique view.
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque, is one of the most impressive examples of Ottoman architecture in Istanbul. Constructed in the 17th century, this grand structure is renowned for its elegant minarets and striking blue tiles. The handmade tiles in the interior create a blue-toned atmosphere that gives the mosque its name, while its large chandelier and towering dome provide a stunning visual impact. The Blue Mosque stands as one of Istanbul’s symbols, welcoming both local and international visitors with its architectural beauty and historical significance.
Dolmabahçe Palace (Dolmabahçe Sarayı)
Another must-visit site in Istanbul is the Dolmabahçe Palace, one of the most striking buildings along the Bosphorus. Located in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul, Dolmabahçe Palace occupies a commanding position overlooking the Bosphorus’s magnificent views. This palace, constructed in the 19th century, showcases the grandeur of the late Ottoman Empire. It presents an elegant mix of European and Ottoman architecture. With 285 rooms and 44 halls, Dolmabahçe Palace resembles an art gallery with its use of gold leaf and crystal chandeliers. The palace’s expansive gardens and ornate courtyards offer visitors a chance to explore Istanbul’s refined past. While strolling through the palace’s captivating gardens, you can enjoy the Bosphorus’s unique scenery and embark on a journey intertwined with history and art.
Istiklal Street (İstiklal Caddesi)
Istiklal Street, one of Istanbul’s busiest and most vibrant thoroughfares, reflects the city’s energetic and dynamic character. This famous 1.4-kilometer-long street offers a blend of history and modernity with every step. Surrounded by historical Ottoman-era buildings, impressive shop windows, and colorful cafes, Istiklal Street provides a range of experiences from shopping and art to gastronomy and nightlife. As you walk along, you’ll encounter the famous red tram, street performers, charming shops, and renowned stores.
Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi)
Located in the middle of the Bosphorus in Üsküdar, Maiden’s Tower has been one of the district’s and city’s symbols throughout history. Its deep-rooted past, extending back to the Byzantine era, has made the tower not just an observation point but also the center of a legend. Standing 23 meters tall, the structure bears many traces of both Ottoman and modern periods. After a lengthy restoration, Maiden’s Tower reopened to visitors in 2024. With its restaurant and observation terrace, it offers an unforgettable experience accompanied by the historical silhouette of Istanbul and the breathtaking view of the Bosphorus. Additionally, special events and guided tours at the tower provide a rich exploration opportunity for history and culture enthusiasts.
Turkish Bath (Hamam)
An integral part of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage, Turkish baths offer visitors both a historical and relaxing experience. These historical sites, inherited from the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, captivate with their architectural elegance and traditional service. Serving as social and cultural centers for centuries, Turkish baths feature wide marble stones, elegant mosaics, and steam-filled rooms, providing a delightful cleansing service that connects you to the past. In addition to classic exfoliation and foam massages, some baths are equipped with modern spa services, blending the traditional hamam experience with contemporary touches. You can find suitable Turkish baths in terms of location and price with a quick online search.
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