Istanbul's vibrant neighborhoods reward exploration, each one offering its own charms. Follow Instagram influencers and film crews through shabby-chic Balat's historic lanes; sip black tea while admiring Golden Horn views at Pierre Loti Cafe; or explore Arnavutkoy's ornate timber mansions for an experience unlike any other!
Strolling through the Grand Bazaar can be an eye-opening experience, from Turkish carpets to intricate gold jewelry available for purchase.
1. Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most revered landmarks, boasting its striking dome and monumental pillars that combine to form an architectural marvel while serving both as church and mosque (along with being designated a museum since 1934).
Mehmet II the Conqueror converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque upon conquering Constantinople (now Istanbul) in 1453, solidifying Islam's ascendancy over Christianity and preserving many Byzantine features such as marble revetments on floors and lower sections of walls, spoliated columns, intricate carvings and more.
Hagia Sophia was renovated during Turkey's 20th-century transition into a secular republic rethinking its role within Europe and wider Muslim world, marking Hagia Sophia as an exhibit space which witnesses Rome, Byzantium, medieval Christian and Ottoman civilizations all coming together as one in this remarkable building.
2. Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque of Istanbul is one of its most beloved attractions with its elegant curves, large courtyard, and six graceful minarets soaring upward into the air. UNESCO has recognized this magnificent mosque as part of Istanbul's Historic Areas as part of their Historic Areas Project which also includes Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace Museum.
Sedefhar Mehmet Agha was inspired to design it by Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan's signature style; Agha was asked by Sultans and their courtiers to build structures which reflected their grandeur; Agha made this mosque his crowning achievement in his career.
The mosque remains an active place of worship and closes to tourists for 90 minutes during prayer times, when prayers take place. Visitors should dress respectfully; women are required to wear head coverings (shawls are available at the entrance). Pope Benedict XVI visited in 2006 - only the second pope ever to visit any Muslim place of worship!
3. Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace provides an interesting window into Ottoman history and one of Istanbul's main tourist draws. Once used as the ceremonial and private residence for Sultans, today it houses priceless religious relics that make the visit worth your while.
The palace is organized around four courtyards, each boasting leisure pavilions and tiered gardens. The first courtyard can be reached through Bab-e-Humayun (Imperial Gate), featuring an enormous fountain that served as the palace bakery, mint, quarters and quarters - as well as housing Hagia Irene museum, which dates back to 6th century church construction! Find out here Turkey Travel Planner
The second courtyard features a grand Audience Hall and the Great Palace Kitchens, once housing over 12,000 porcelain pieces such as an alleged celadon bowl that changed color if poisoned. In the third courtyard stood the Harem where Sultans kept their concubines and wives; in the fourth courtyard stood an Iftar Kameriyesi pergola where Sultans broke their Ramzan fasts.
4. Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar (Carsi-yi Kebir in Turkish) is an unforgettable place that transports one back in time with its 22 gates leading to 61 streets with over 3000 shops.
The market is an intersection between East and West where trade and commerce take place. You'll find everything here from exotic oriental rugs and silver jewelry, to souvenirs such as fridge magnets or key chains with Turkey flags or nazar boncuk (glass evil-eye protector amulets).
Grand Bazaar boasts an incredible variety of food. There are multiple cafes and restaurants where visitors can stop for refreshments or meals.
5. Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet Square is an expansive complex that houses numerous attractions, including Hagia Sophia, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque - which gave this square its name - the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, Arasta Bazaar and Binbirdirek Cistern.
Alongside mosques, there are also several majestic obelisks and columns which add an imposing look to the square, such as Walled Obelisk, Thutmose Obelisk and Serpent Column - each marking an important event from history.
One of the hallmarks of Sultanahmet Square is its annual Tulip Festival held each April. Tulips planted near Topkapi Palace make for a wonderful sight and provide a pleasant respite from city life; furthermore, its peaceful atmosphere invites relaxation and reflection.
6. Taksim Square
Taksim Square in Istanbul is an exciting intersection of history, culture and modernity. As the primary hub for metro and tram services as well as being a popular place for locals to gather, celebrate New Year's Eve or watch parades, it provides a vibrant focal point.
One of the main attractions in the square is the Monument to the Republic, which stands as a tribute to Ataturk and other leaders of Turkish nationalism. Visitors often come here at sunset, often paying their respects or taking photographs here.
Istiklal Caddesi, an expansive pedestrian shopping street, features restaurants, bars, shops, galleries, and museums lining its perimeter. At its center lies Istiklal Caddesi; with plenty of eateries, bars, shops and galleries. Weekends tend to be especially packed and it may be easier for visitors to navigate their way around easily while taking in all its sights. To make the experience easier and better experience all its sights; consider going during the week instead or avoid them entirely; that way it will be much simpler to get all its delights.