Once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia is a remarkable architectural feat filled with history and culture. Marvel at its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and ancient treasures from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras.
Experience Istanbul's religious and royal heritage with visits to the towering Blue Mosque and the magnificent Topkapi Palace. Admire the intricate tilework and delicate calligraphy of the Blue Mosque, and explore the sprawling palace complex that was home to the sultans for centuries.
See the city from a different angle with a scenic boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait, which divides Europe and Asia. Marvel at the picturesque shoreline dotted with palaces and mansions, and disembark at Dolmabahce Palace, a lavish hilltop residence of Ottoman sultans and a stunning example of European Baroque style.
Get lost in the vibrant and chaotic Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, with over 4,000 shops and stalls selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and antiques. Walk a few blocks to the Spice Market, where you can sample exotic spices and teas and buy Turkish delights and other sweets.
Discover the lesser-known gems of Istanbul with a visit to the Chora Church, a medieval marvel with stunning frescoes and mosaics, and explore the trendy and lively Istiklal Street, a pedestrian thoroughfare lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul with a ferry ride to the charming and peaceful Prince Islands, a group of nine car-free islands in the Sea of Marmara. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride or bike tour of the island and visit the iconic Maiden's Tower, a tiny islet with a romantic legend and breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Admire the magnificent dome and sweeping views of the Golden Horn from the Suleymaniye Mosque, one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture and a major pilgrimage site for Muslims. Return to the Grand Bazaar for more shopping and bargaining, and soak up the lively atmosphere and delicious street food.
Relax and rejuvenate with a Turkish bath experience, also known as hammam, which involves a series of steam, scrub, and massage rituals. Treat yourself to a luxurious spa session at Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam or Cağaloğlu Hamamı. End the day with a climb up the iconic Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower with panoramic views of Istanbul and the Bosporus.
Cross the Bosporus Bridge to explore the Asian side of Istanbul, which offers a more laid-back and residential vibe. Visit the trendy and bohemian neighborhood of Moda, with its lively cafes, boutiques, and seaside park. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast or brunch at a local eatery and relax by the waterfront.
Wrap up your Istanbul adventure with a visit to the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, one of the richest collections of ancient artifacts in the world, including priceless sarcophagi, mosaics, and statues from ancient Greece, Rome, and Anatolia. Head back to the bustling Taksim Square for some last-minute shopping and people-watching, and bid farewell to this enchanting city.
To get around Istanbul, there are several options: public transportation (buses, metro, tram), taxis, private transfers, and ferries. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable electronic card that can be used on all public transportation modes, and offers discounts and convenience. Taxis and private transfers are more expensive, but provide more comfort and flexibility. Ferries are a great way to enjoy the scenic views of the Bosporus and visit the Prince Islands. The average cost of transportation per day is TRY 35 (USD 4). Travel time varies depending on traffic and distance.
If you have more time, consider visiting other attractions such as the Basilica Cistern, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, or the Miniaturk park. If you have less time, prioritize the must-see sites such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace, and skip the ones that don't interest you. To avoid the crowds and the heat, visit the popular sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. To experience the local culture, try the street food, attend a Turkish music or dance show, or join a cooking class.
Istanbul has two major airports: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). IST is the older and larger airport, located on the European side, and served by many international airlines. SAW is the newer and smaller airport, located on the Asian side, and mostly served by low-cost carriers. The distance from IST to the city center is about 15 km, and from SAW is about 35 km. There are several transportation options from the airports to the city, including metro, bus, shuttle, and taxi. The travel time varies depending on the traffic and the mode of transportation.