The Topkapi Palace is a former residence of Ottoman sultans and located in the heart of Sultanahmet district. The palace now serves as a museum featuring magnificent Ottoman architecture, treasures of the sultans and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
The Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the old city of Istanbul. Once a church, then a mosque and now a museum, it is a perfect representation of the city's rich history and culture. The interior is a masterpiece of Byzantine art and architecture that will leave you amazed.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4000 shops selling traditional crafts, textiles, spices, and jewelry, it's a perfect place to shop for souvenirs and experience the Turkish culture, bargaining skills and hospitality.
Istanbul Modern Art Museum is a perfect place for art lovers. Located in a former warehouse on the shores of the Bosphorus, it showcases contemporary Turkish and International art in a creative and innovative way. The building itself is a masterpiece of modern architecture, and you can also enjoy the stunning views of the Bosphorus from the museum's cafe.
Taksim Square is the heart of modern Istanbul. It's a busy tourist hub that never sleeps and has everything from shops, hotels to restaurants and cafes. You can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city, take a stroll along Istiklal Avenue, or visit the nearby Galata Tower for panoramic views of the city.
A Bosphorus cruise is a must-do experience when you visit Istanbul. It's a perfect way to admire the beautiful city landscapes and historical buildings from the water. You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery and take some excellent photos while learning about the city's history and culture.
The Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul. Built-in the 17th century, it features an impressive dome, six minarets and a beautiful interior decorated with blue tiles. It's an active mosque, so it's best to plan your visit early in the day before prayer times.
Transportation options in Istanbul include the metro system, buses, trams, taxis and ride-sharing services. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable smart card that is widely used for public transportation and can be purchased at metro stations, bus stops and kiosks. Taxis are also readily available, but always make sure to agree on a price before getting into the taxi.
The estimated cost for transportation during the trip is around 100-150 TL per person, depending on the mode of transportation used.
If you have more time, you can plan a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace, the Spice Bazaar, or the Basilica Cistern. If you have less time, plan your trip based on your interest and priorities. Also, keep in mind that many attractions in Istanbul are closed on Mondays.
There are two airports in Istanbul: Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST), which is located on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), which is located on the Asian side of the city. Istanbul Atatürk Airport is the larger of the two airports and is located approximately 30 minutes from the city center by car or metro.
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