The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii in Turkish) is an architectural masterpiece built in the early 17th century. The mosque is famous for its blue-colored ceramic tiles that adorn its walls, domes, and columns. It is still an active mosque, but visitors can enter free of charge outside of prayer times. However, appropriate dress and behavior are expected while inside.
Originally built as a church in the 6th century, Hagia Sophia has served as a mosque and then a museum over the centuries. In 2023, the building will reopen as a mosque. It is renowned for its massive dome and its Byzantine mosaics, including the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus. Audio guides are available for a fee, but visitors can also appreciate its beauty without one.
With more than 3,000 shops, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Visitors can haggle for jewelry, spices, textiles, and souvenirs while getting lost in its labyrinthine streets. While it can be overwhelming, it’s an Istanbul experience not to be missed.
Topkapi Palace served as the residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Visitors can explore the palace’s sprawling courtyards, royal halls and chambers. Don’t miss the Harem section, which was home to the sultan’s wives and concubines. Audio guides are available but not mandatory. However, the palace can be very crowded, so it’s best to arrive early.
A Bosphorus cruise offers a unique perspective of Istanbul from its iconic waterway. It’s the perfect way to relax while admiring the city’s stunning skyline and picturesque neighborhoods. Be sure to bring a camera to take memorable shots of both Europe and Asia, as the river divides the city. There are many companies selling tickets for cruises, so choose one that fits your budget and schedule best.
Getting around Istanbul is relatively easy and inexpensive. Walking is a fantastic way to explore the city, but it can be tiring as there are hills and cobbled streets in some areas. Istanbul's metro system can take visitors to most tourist attractions. Taxis are also a great option, but be sure to negotiate and agree on prices with the driver beforehand.
The Istanbulkart, a reloadable transportation card, can be used on all modes of transportation and is the most economical option for visitors who plan to use public transportations frequently.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Spice Bazaar or Dolmabahce Palace. Subtract the Hagia Sophia if you are interested only in museums and have already visited former church-mosques. Keep in mind that Istanbul is a hot and humid city in the summer, so bring comfortable clothes and plenty of drinking water.
Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Atatürk airport is located on the European side and is closer to the city center (23 kilometers) while Sabiha Gökçen airport is on the Asian side (41 kilometers) and has less frequent transportation options at night.