Hagia Sophia is a former Eastern Orthodox Church and Imperial Mosque that is now a museum located in the heart of Istanbul. As one of the most significant surviving examples of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia features magnificent frescoes, mosaics, and intricate tilework. Additionally, visitors can climb to the top of the structure to see a panoramic view of Istanbul.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It has over 4,000 shops selling everything from clothes to spices, ceramics to jewelry. The labyrinthine bazaar can be overwhelming, but it’s a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Istanbul's old commercial center. Visitors should expect to haggle, and come prepared with cash.
The Topkapi Palace is a former residence of Ottoman sultans and now a museum showcasing the opulence and history of the Ottoman dynasty. The vast palace complex features sprawling courtyards, gardens, and ornate architectural details. Visitors can view the lavish treasures of the Ottoman Empire, explore the palace kitchens, and take in breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn.
The Blue Mosque is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul, known for its stunning blue tiles, intricate calligraphy, and six minarets. The mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, was built in the early 17th century and remains an active place of worship. Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering.
A Bosphorus Cruise is the perfect way to end a trip to Istanbul. The cruise takes you along the winding strait that separates Europe and Asia while offering stunning views of the city's most famous landmarks, including the Galata Tower, Dolmabahce Palace, and Rumeli Fortress. Along the way, visitors can enjoy traditional Turkish tea and snacks while learning about the history and culture of Istanbul.
While traveling around Istanbul, visitors can make use of the public transportation system, which includes trams, buses, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a pre-paid card that can be used on all public transportation systems and can be conveniently reloaded at various kiosks throughout the city. Taxis are also available, but it's important to ensure that the driver is using the meter.
From the airport, travelers can take a taxi, shuttle service, or the metro to get into the city center. A taxi will cost approximately 100-150TL, while the shuttle service and metro cost around 18-25TL.
If you have more time, consider visiting other notable sights like the Basilica Cistern, Suleymaniye Mosque, or the Chora Church. Additionally, make sure to indulge in the delicious Turkish cuisine that Istanbul has to offer, including kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight. If you have less time, consider cutting out one of the sights, but make sure to prioritize the ones that interest you the most.
Istanbul is served by two airports, Ataturk International Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). From IST, it's approximately a 30-minute drive to the city center, while SAW is situated on the Asian side of Istanbul and is about a 45-minute drive from the city center. Both airports offer convenient public transportation options, including buses and metro lines.