The Hagia Sophia, once an Orthodox church, later a mosque, and now a museum, showcases a stunning fusion of Ottoman and Byzantine architecture. With its impressive dome, mosaics, and calligraphy, the Hagia Sophia is a must-visit.
The Topkapi Palace served as the residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses a museum filled with treasures, like the Spoonmaker Diamond and the Topkapi Dagger.
These two bustling markets are a paradise for shoppers in search of spices, textiles, ceramics, and other souvenirs. The Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world, has more than 4,000 shops. The Spice Bazaar tantalizes visitors with its aromas of exotic spices.
The Dolmabahce Palace, another example of Ottoman architecture, was the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in the late 19th century. The palace, with its opulent chandeliers and gold-plated ceilings, blends European and Islamic styles.
Istiklal Avenue is a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. The historic Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower built in 1348, offers breathtaking views of the city from the top.
From the Bosphorus Strait, a scenic boat tour showcases Istanbul's stunning skyline and landmarks, like the Dolmabahce Palace and Rumeli Fortress. The Maiden's Tower, located on a small island in the middle of the Bosphorus, is a romantic spot for lunch or dinner with unspoiled views of Istanbul.
The Blue Mosque is renowned for its six minarets, intricate tilework, and domes. The nearby Basilica Cistern, an underground chamber, was built in 532 to store water. The impressive columns and eerie lighting make it a unique experience.
To conclude the journey, a traditional Turkish Bath, or hammam, offers a relaxing experience. The beautiful white marble interiors and steamy saunas allow travelers to relax and unwind. Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul, offers trendy shopping, nightlife, and restaurants.
Istanbul has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, metro, and ferries, all of which are interconnected. A single ticket costs 3.50 TL and is valid for two hours. A daily Istanbulkart pass costs 30 TL and can be used on all public transportation. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
If you have more time, consider a day trip to the Princes' Islands or the ruins of Ephesus. For foodies, a food tour of the city is highly recommended. If you have less time, consider skipping the Turkish Bath and Taksim Square or spending less time in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar.
Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is the largest and closest to the city center (30 km). Turkish Airlines and most international carriers operate here. Sabiha Gokcen Airport (35 km) mainly serves low-cost airlines, including Pegasus and Turkish Airlines' AnadoluJet.