The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are two of the most iconic landmarks in Turkey. The impressive blue-tiled mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, while the ancient basilica-turned-mosque boasts intricate mosaics and a fascinating history. Don't forget to explore the surrounding gardens and cafes!
Topkapi Palace is a huge complex of stunning gardens, museums, and mosques. Once the residence of the Ottoman sultans, it also houses mesmerizing exhibitions such as the Islamic Art section. The Grand Bazaar is a large marketplace full of spices, textiles, and souvenirs. Get ready to haggle!
The Spice Bazaar is a bustling marketplace filled with the scent of exotic spices. Try some Turkish Delight, nuts, and other traditional sweets. Later, take a Bosphorus Cruise to admire the stunning landscape of Istanbul that separates Europe and Asia, and be guaranteed to see the grand palaces and spectacular views of the Bosporus.
Dolmabahce Palace, built-in 1856, is one of Turkey's most important historical landmarks. Its stunning Baroque architecture and ornate decorations will leave you speechless. Istiklal Street is the place to be for shopping, dining, and nightlife. The street is a mile-long pedestrianized promenade and is the beating heart of Istanbul's cultural events and activities.
For transportation in Istanbul, you can use their reliable public transport system. You can use the Istanbulkart which is a smart card used for bus, metro, tram, ferry, and cable car transportation. It costs ₺6 for the card plus the cost of your trip. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available but are a little bit more expensive.
If you have less time, you can consider taking a day tour to nearby cities such as Bursa or Edirne. For more time, consider adding a visit to the Chora Church and the Galata Tower
Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport (IST) is the main airport of Istanbul, located 23 miles (37 km) northwest of the city. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is the secondary airport, located 30 miles (48 km) southeast of the city.