The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a magnificent Ottoman-era mosque located in Istanbul's historic center. The beautiful blue tiles used in the interior give it its nickname. Admission is free, but visitors are asked to cover up and remove their shoes before entering.
Once a Christian cathedral and then a mosque, Hagia Sophia is a stunning architectural masterpiece in Istanbul's old city. It is now a museum, and visitors can admire its towering dome, beautiful mosaics, and significant history. Entrance fee is 100 TRY (12 USD).
The Topkapi Palace is a grand Ottoman palace that was once the residence of the Turkish sultan. Visitors can explore its various rooms, courtyards, and exhibits. Entrance fee is 300 TRY (35 USD), and additional fees apply for some exhibitions.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With over 4000 shops selling everything from jewelry to textiles to spices, it's a shopper's paradise. Take your time exploring the winding alleys and haggling with vendors for the best deals.
A dinner cruise on the Bosphorus Strait offers a unique and beautiful perspective of Istanbul illuminated at night. Enjoy delicious local cuisine and live music while you sail past some of Istanbul's most famous landmarks. Prices start at 80 USD per person.
Getting around Istanbul can be done on foot, but for longer distances or in warmer months, it may be more comfortable to take a taxi or use public transportation such as the metro or tram. Taxis start at 5 TRY (0.60 USD) and a single metro ride costs 2.60 TRY (0.30 USD).
If you have more time, consider visiting the Basilica Cistern or taking a boat tour of the Bosphorus. If you have less time, you can skip the dinner cruise or Grand Bazaar. Also, remember to bring a scarf or shawl to cover up before entering religious sites.
Istanbul has two main airports: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST) and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). IST is located on the European side of the city, approximately 20 km from the city center. SAW is located on the Asian side and is approximately 45 km from the city center. Both airports offer various transportation options to get to the city, such as taxis, airport shuttles, and public transportation.