Formerly a church and then a mosque, Hagia Sophia is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of Istanbul. Admire the impressive architecture of this iconic landmark and learn about its rich heritage.
The Topkapi Palace is one of the most impressive cultural attractions in Istanbul. It is home to many museums, exhibits, and collections that showcase the rich history and culture of the city. Explore the stunning architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and fascinating exhibits of this landmark.
The Blue Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul. It is a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture and is known for its intricate decorations and blue tiles. Take a guided tour of this mosque and learn about its history and significance.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. This bustling marketplace is full of history and culture, and offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local way of life. Shop for traditional souvenirs, sample Turkish food, and bargain with local merchants.
The Istanbul Archaeology Museums are a fascinating attraction for history and culture lovers. The museum complex includes three separate museums with various exhibits ranging from prehistoric artifacts to Ottoman-era artifacts. Get a glimpse into Istanbul's rich and eventful past through the displays.
The Basilica Cistern is an ancient water supply system that once served the city of Istanbul. This underground structure is famous for its stunning architecture, featuring 12 rows of columns, each with unique carvings. Tour the cistern and behold the sheer magnitude of this impressive structure.
The Chora Church, also known as the Church of the Holy Saviour, is a beautifully preserved example of Byzantine art and architecture. The church is famous for its exquisitely detailed mosaics that depict various scenes from the Bible. Admire the stunning beauty of this church and let it transport you to another time and place.
The Princes' Islands are a group of nine islands located in the Sea of Marmara, and offer visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. Explore the scenic beauty of the islands, indulge in local cuisine, and take a relaxing stroll through the colorful streets of the island's villages.
Traveling by public transportation is the best way to explore Istanbul. İstanbulkart is a rechargeable contactless card that can be used on buses, trams, and ferries. Buying this card will save you time and money. A ride on public transportation costs approximately 3TRY and takes 10-20 minutes. Taxis are also plentiful, and they charge a starting fee of 4TRY and then an additional 3 TRY per kilometer.
If you have more time, visit the Istanbul Modern Art Museum to experience the contemporary side of Istanbul's art scene. For those with less time, consider skipping the Princes' Islands and instead take a bike ride through the neighborhoods of Istanbul's Asian side.
Istanbul has two main airports: Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). IST is located on the European side of Istanbul and is approximately 24km from the city center, while SAW is located on the Asian side and is approximately 45km from the city center. Both airports offer various transportation options to get to the city, including buses, metros and taxis.