Turkey’s largest city and cultural and economic center, Istanbul, boasts a rich history and unique location. It is the only city in the world to straddle two continents, Europe and Asia, divided by the Bosphorus Strait. Istanbul’s skyline is a creative combination of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. The city is home to many ancient mosques, palaces, museums, and bazaars. Some of the top places to visit in Istanbul include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Maiden’s Tower, Galata Tower, and the Grand Bazaar. 

Top 5 Places to visit in Istanbul

1. The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a 17th-century Ottoman-era mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. Located in the Hippodrome, across from the Hagia Sophia, and near the Grand Bazaar. Features six minarets, a central dome, four semi-domes, and a large courtyard. Decorated with thousands of blue tiles, floral motifs, and calligraphy. Over 200 windows in the central dome, half-domes, and side walls allow natural light to accentuate the tiles. A large, domed prayer hall with four pillars to support the ceiling.

2. The Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is a mosque and architectural wonder in Istanbul, Turkey that’s known for its rich history, religious significance, and innovative architecture. It’s name translates from Greek to “Holy Wisdom”. It is located in the heart of Istanbul’s old city, surrounded by the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus, and the Golden Horn. The Hagia Sophia is a prime example of Byzantine architecture, featuring a massive dome, marble floors, and many Orthodox mosaics and icons. The central dome is over 101 feet in diameter and 160 feet high. 

3. Topkapı Palace

Topkapı Palace is a museum and library in Istanbul, Turkey, that was the administrative and educational center of the Ottoman Empire for almost 400 years.Sultan Mehmed II, the conqueror of Constantinople, commissioned the palace between 1460 and 1478. It was the main residence of the Ottoman sultans and their court until the mid-19th century. The palace was renamed “Topkapı” in the 1800s, which means “cannon gate”. The palace is open daily from 9 AM–5 PM, except on Tuesdays. During the summer, it’s usually open until 7 PM. The palace is closed on the first day of religious holidays and January 1

4. The Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is a medieval tower in Istanbul, Turkey that is a symbol of the city and a popular tourist attraction. The tower’s history dates back to the 5th century when the Byzantines built a wooden tower called Magalos Pyrgos, or Great Tower. The Genoese rebuilt the tower in 1348–49 and named it Christea Turris, or Tower of Christ. The tower is 66.9 meters tall and has a 360-degree viewing platform.From the top of the tower, you can see the Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Golden Horn, and the Bosphorus Strait. Galata Tower entrance fee: The entrance fee to the tower is 650 Lira. 

5. The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey is one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets. It is 30,700 square meters and has over 4,000 shops, 61 covered streets, and many architectural elements. Mehmed II established the Bazaar in the 15th century, conquering Constantinople and renaming it Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar served as a commercial hub of the Ottoman Empire. Shoppers expect to bargain at the Grand Bazaar. Some recommend starting at 50% of the asking price. The Grand Bazaar has traditional restaurants and cafes.