Topkapi Palace is a historical and architectural marvel that served as the residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries. From the harem and treasury to the courtyard and gardens, the palace has a lot to offer. Don't miss the famous Spoonmaker's Diamond, one of the largest in the world!
Start your day at the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Built in 1616, the mosque boasts six minarets and stunning blue tiles. Next door is the Hagia Sophia, once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, with fascinating Byzantine and Ottoman influences.
Shopaholics rejoice! The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. From carpets and ceramics to jewelry and textiles, you'll find everything here. Afterwards, head to the Spice Bazaar for exotic spices, dried fruits, and sweets.
Get your culture fix at the Istanbul Modern, Turkey's first museum of modern and contemporary art. Then, head to the Galata Tower for stunning views of the city. Built in 1348, the tower was once the tallest building in Istanbul.
Experience local life in the bustling district of Besiktas. Stroll along the Bosphorus and grab a simit (Turkish bagel) from a street vendor. Then, head to Ortakoy, a charming waterfront neighborhood known for its mosque and street food. Don't miss the kumpir, a loaded baked potato!
See Istanbul from a different perspective on a boat tour along the Bosphorus. Admire the city's skyline and spot landmarks like the Dolmabahce Palace and Bosphorus Bridge. End your day at the Maiden's Tower, a small islet with a fascinating history and stunning views.
End your trip with a bang at Taksim Square, a vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Take a stroll down Istiklal Avenue, Istanbul's busiest and most famous pedestrian street. Don't forget to try a balik ekmek (fish sandwich) from one of the many vendors.
Getting around Istanbul is relatively easy with various transportation options like buses, trams, boats, and taxis available. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable contactless smart card that can be used on all public transport and offers discounted fares. Taxis are also widely available but can be expensive in touristy areas. Expect to pay around 100 TL for a taxi from the airport to the city center, and factor in traffic during peak hours.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Basilica Cistern or the Dolmabahce Palace. If you have less time, skip the Istanbul Modern and Taksim Square. Be prepared to haggle at the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, and don't forget to try Turkish coffee and baklava. Avoid visiting mosques during prayer times and dress modestly.
Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is the newer and larger airport, located about 40 km from the city center, with direct flights to major cities around the world. Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, around 60 km from the city center, and mostly serves low-cost carriers.