15 Best Tourist Attractions in Istanbul -

In the very soul of Turkey there is Istanbul, a city full of various historical past, culture and character. From its landmarks thousands years old to its markets crowded and lively neighborhoods, Istanbul is a harmonious blend of experiences that reflect all the traveler’s curiosities. Be a part of the complete exploration of the captivating 15 of Istanbul’s exceptional sites which reveals very much about Istanbul’s deep history and classical life.

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya):

Being the crown of Istanbul’s architectural skyline, Hagia Sophia symbolizes in architecture the city’s multiple pasts. The church was actually built in the 6th century in the Byzantine style; later on it became a mosque and now its is a museum. You will be simply thrilled inside the dome, mosaics, and architecture that resembles both the Byzantine and the Ottoman cultures

Topkapi Palace:

Precisely where the peninsula, having a historic background, finds itself on its tip one can find Topkapi Palace- the abode of Ottoman sultans. You may forget our several hundred-years-old history, but its 400-year-old buildings, gardens, and chambers are above you if you long for dazzling treasures like the Topkapi Dagger or the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. Don’t forget about the breathtaking vistas of Bosphorus strait and Golden Horn river from the palace’s terraces.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque):

The mosque takes its name from the blue tiles, which decorate its interior, as it is an architectural marvel that is still able to mesmerize anyone who sees it. Constructed in the 17th century, it combines the six towering minarets with immense central dome and sophisticated calligraphy which decorates its walls. The mosque is opened to visitors for them to enjoy the serenity and exquisiteness of it and also to feel the spirituality that fills the place.

Grand Bazaar :

Visiting Istanbul in not complete without a trip to the congested streets of the Grand Bazaar. Set in a labyrinth of shops, stalls, and dealers, this market offers a visual, auditory, and olfactory adventure. Turkey carpets, ceramics, and spices are part of the bazaar’s collection of souvenirs and sweets. There is something for you to find and enjoy.

Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar):

Right next to the Spice Bazaar, which lies across the street from the Grand Bazaar, you will be hit by the strong, intoxicating smells of diverse spices and herbs. Stroll around the stalls, which are full of vibrant colors like spices, teas, dried fruits, and Turkish sweets, and experience one of the long-lasting traditions, bargaining with vendors to get the best prices. Never miss Turkish coffee though as it is freshly brewed.

Galata Tower:

Galata Tower stands higher complete with attracting horizons of Istanbul and its landmarks. Constructed as a medieval watchtower in the 14th century, in the past its functions were as a prison, observatory and currently it is a popular tourist attraction. Strive to the top to have the best sight of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and Sultanahmet neighborhood.

Bosphorus Cruise:

Adventure the Bosphorus Strait from an entirely different angle by joining a leisurely cruise in Istanbul. Be mesmerized by some of the city’s most prominent landmarks including the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Çırağan Palace and the Bosphorus Bridge as you drift along magnificently-designed mansions, lush hillsides, and busy waterfront neighborhoods. A sunset cruise is particularly spellbinding, seeing the city as an aura of gold in the setting sun.

Basilica Cistern:

Underneath İstanbul, there is the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir that has been there for centuries, which also used to serve as a water supply for the city. This subterranean gem is hidden deep underground, although you may want to check out its green marble columns topped off with mystical lines of light and the soothing sound of water. The legendary Medusa heads can’t be missed either for they are claimed to scare away evil spirits.

Dolmabahçe Palace:

Walk the extravagance of Ottoman Empire at Dolmabahçe Palace, a fine example of nineteenth century opulence and European grandeur. Treat yourself to a walk around its magnificent halls, rich chambers, and grand gardens where past sultans, dignitaries, and heads of states were guests. Admire the sparkling crystal chandeliers gleaning off the ceilings which are as shining as any royal palace in Europe.

Chora Church (Kariye Museum):

Go back to the ages in Chora Church, a Byzantine masterpiece of mosaics and frescoes carried in Istanbul. Located in the 4th century as a monastery, after that it was transformed into a mosque and it became a museum in the present. Walk through its magnificent interior wall paintings illustrating scenes from the life of Christ.

Süleymaniye Mosque:

Standing at the summit of Istanbul’s third hill, the majestic domes, the slender minarets of Süleymaniye Mosque, and the breathtaking vistas can be seen below. Designed by the famous architect Sinan, it is a piece of architecture that embodies the good of Ottoman architecture and an ottava of spiritual devotion. Venture in to view its beautiful yarden, majestic Mosque, and unique calligraphy.

Istiklal Avenue:

Feel the buzz of ultra-contemporary Istanbul on Istiklal Avenue, a lively road filled with shop, cafes and cultural sites. Spend leisure time walking the pedestrian streets and marveling at the landmarks like the Galatasaray High School and St. Anthony of Padua Church. Don’t miss the chance to taste the local dishes and Turkish sweets if you travel to that vibrant area.

Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi):

With the romantic legend around its history, Maiden’s Tower looks like a connecting ship to Istanbul’s maritime culture. Sitting on the small islet in Bosphorus, it had some roles as a lighthouse, customs office, and a quarantine hospital. Globally, offering patrons both a panoramic view of the city and dining in its restaurant is available nowadays.

Princes’ Islands (Adalar):

Leave behind the noise and stress in Istanbul by going on a day trip to The Princes’ Islands, this tranquil archipelago found in the Sea of Marmara fjord Discover cobblestone streets without cars, covered with wood-paneled houses, pine forests, and a magnificent coastline, where instead of cars, horse carriages provide a slow method of transportation. Do not forget to taste the ocean fresh seafood and salt-tinged mezes of local flavors at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Miniaturk:

Experience the Turkey in the little scale at Miniaturk, an open-air museum which compiles the scale models of their country’s most iconic landmarks and architectural masterpieces. In the course of history, there have been ancient ruins that were never remembered of and modern skyscrapers we call a century old. Wander through miniatures of a village, intensely crowded city, and history, and be amazed by the fine sophistication that makes them come alive.

Conclusion:

Each of the 15 snapshots we have taken, as chapters of Istanbul’s story, provide a unique piece, adding to the luster that makes the city a classic. Both the grandiose domes of the Hagia Sophia and the lively lanes of the Grand Bazaar, the tranquil shores of the Princes Islands and the panoramic views from the Galata Tower provide an insight into the city through the ages, every step unveiling a new phase of its fascinating past.

With every step of their journey along the streets of the city, visitors become contributors and co-creators of the city’s ever-evolving narrative, linking traditions of the past with new realities of the present. The chanting of the emperors, merchants and artists still echoes through the streets which confirm that the city is the point of the civilizations interface.

Not only because of its historical value but also because of its enchantment in giving the soul warmth, hospitality, and life it leads, Istanbul becomes irresistible. It is a city where strangers become friends over a cup of Turkish tea, where old traditions live side by side with modern technology and where every corner of this town becomes a new adventure or discovery.

Leaving Istanbul behind, it’s the imagines of the everlasting beauty of the city and the never fading spirit of its people which we take with us. Whether we revisit the city’s streets one day or dedicate a space for its soul in our hearts, Istanbul surely has a special place in our memories as a mysterious call to see, to marvel, and to be inspired.