The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul with its impressive architecture and intricate details. It is open daily from 9am to 9pm, except during prayer times. Just opposite the Blue Mosque is Hagia Sophia, a former church turned mosque turned museum. It has an impressive dome and beautiful mosaics. It is open daily from 9am to 5pm. These two locations are a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Topkapi Palace was the residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries and is now a museum showcasing the empire's history and artifacts. It has beautiful gardens and amazing views of the Golden Horn. It is open daily from 9am to 6pm. In the afternoon, head over to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. It has over 4,000 shops selling various goods from jewelry to spices. It is open daily from 9am to 7pm. Don't forget to haggle!
Start your day by taking in amazing views of Istanbul from the top of Galata Tower, a medieval tower located in Galata. It is open daily from 9am to 8pm. Next, head to the Basilica Cistern, an underground water source built by Romans in the 6th century. It has impressive columns and is where scenes from the James Bond movie "From Russia With Love" were shot. It is open daily from 9am to 6:30pm.
End your trip with a visit to Dolmabahce Palace, the last residence of Ottoman sultans. It has a stunning exterior and an impressive collection of crystal chandeliers and paintings. It is open daily except Mondays and Thursdays from 9am to 4pm. In the afternoon, relax on a Bosphorus Cruise and take in breathtaking views of Istanbul from the water. It lasts around 2 hours and tickets can be purchased at the docks. The last cruise departs around 6pm.
Travelers can get around Istanbul by using public transportation such as the metro, tram, and bus, or by taking taxis. The Istanbulkart is a reusable card that can be used on all forms of public transportation and is a more cost-effective option. Taxis are widely available but can be expensive, especially during rush hour. It is important to check for traffic updates and plan for extra travel time, as Istanbul is known for its congestion.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Istanbul Archaeology Museum or taking a day trip to the Prince Islands. If you have less time, skip the Grand Bazaar and Bosphorus Cruise. It is also helpful to dress modestly and bring layers as some locations, such as mosques, require covered shoulders and legs. Lastly, try the delicious Turkish food and tea!
Istanbul has two major airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW). IST is located 21 miles northwest of the city center and is the main airport for international flights, while SAW is located 22 miles southeast of the city center and is used for low-cost airlines. Travelers can use the metro, bus, or taxi to get to and from the airports.