Istanbul is a city where East meets West, mixing old and new. It's a lively place full of culture and trade, perfect for those who love to travel. Istanbul offers an unforgettable journey with its amazing buildings and busy markets. We will guide you through the top places to visit in Istanbul. Whether you're interested in culture, history, or just love exploring, this city has something for you.
Istanbul City Tour: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar
Take the Istanbul Classic Tour to explore the historical highlights of this lively city. Begin at the Roman Hippodrome, where you can imagine the excitement of ancient chariot races. Then, visit the Blue Mosque, famous for its beautiful domes and stunning blue tiles. Move on to the German Fountain, a monument honoring Emperor Wilhelm II, located close to the impressive Hagia Sophia. Experience the grandeur of this iconic building, built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, and take in its long history. Finish your tour at the Grand Bazaar, a bustling market with a mix of trade and culture. Explore its many pathways, filled with over 4,000 shops offering everything from textiles to ceramics. Let the Istanbul Classic Tour take you through the city's rich history, where the past and present combine for an unforgettable experience.
Topkapi Palace & Harem
One of the most luxurious places to visit in Istanbul is the Topkapi Palace, which was once the center of the Ottoman Empire. This large complex was home to Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years. Today, it lets visitors see how the royals lived with its fancy rooms and many collections.
Start your visit with a tour of the Harem, where the sultan's family stayed. This hidden area has rooms with detailed decorations and shows the private life of the Ottoman elites. Don't miss the Imperial Treasury, where you can find amazing items like the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker's Diamond.
Also, check out the Sacred Relics area, which has important religious items for both Islam and Christianity. Lastly, enjoy the stunning views from the outer terrace, where you can see the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The palace's mix of history, art, and incredible views makes it a must-see for anyone interested in history.
Visiting Galata Tower & Genoese
Explore the rich history and architecture of Istanbul on our Galata & Genoese Afternoon Walking Tour. Visit the famous Galata Tower, a key symbol of the city. Enjoy the amazing views from the top. Learn about the tower, built by the Genoese in the 14th century. Climb up the stairs to see a mix of old and new buildings, and feel the city's atmosphere from the observation deck. This tour offers a fun way to discover the charm of Galata Tower. Meet your guide at Caribou Coffee to start this interesting journey into Istanbul's past and culture.
Having Dinner on Bosphorus Cruise
Join us for a Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show on the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Enjoy a 3-course meal and a captivating Turkish Night Show while cruising on the Bosphorus. As you sail, admire the lit-up Ottoman palaces and grand bridges, and enjoy the magical night views of Istanbul. Unlimited soft drinks are included while you watch traditional music, dance, and entertainment from Turkey. The cruise includes easy roundtrip transport, promising an evening full of lasting memories of Istanbul's beauty. You'll return to your hotel by midnight, having experienced the true charm of Istanbul.
Fener & Balat Districts
Discover the lively and historic areas of Fener and Balat, where a blend of traditional charm and modern creativity awaits. Begin by exploring the narrow, cobblestone streets with their colorful old houses from the Ottoman period. Be sure to visit the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, the main spiritual hub for the Greek Orthodox community. As you walk, check out the unique cafes and small shops offering local crafts and tasty snacks. Also, look out for the eye-catching street art that gives a modern touch to these historic neighborhoods.
Pierre Loti Hill
Head to Pierre Loti Hill for a calm getaway with amazing views of the Golden Horn. Named after the French writer who loved it, this hill is ideal for watching a beautiful sunset. Enjoy a drink at the well-known Pierre Loti Café, where you can have Turkish tea or coffee while looking at the view. You can reach the hill by taking a scenic cable car ride, which also offers great views along the way.
Basilica Cistern
For a unique and slightly spooky experience, visit the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water storage built in the 6th century. It's famous for its beautiful columns and mysterious Medusa heads, showcasing the engineering skills of the Byzantine Empire.
As you walk on the dimly lit paths, you'll see numerous columns reflecting in the shallow water below. The peaceful yet mysterious setting makes it perfect for photography. To avoid crowds, try visiting early in the day when it's quieter.
Be sure to check out the two Medusa head carvings at the base of some columns. Their origins and purpose are unknown, adding to the cistern's mystery. The mix of history and mystery makes the Basilica Cistern an unforgettable part of your visit to Istanbul.
Chora Church (Kariye Museum)
Step away from the main tourist spots to find the Chora Church, also called the Kariye Museum. This lesser-known site features some of Istanbul’s best Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, showing biblical stories with amazing skill. As you walk through the church, admire the detailed art from the 14th century. The quiet setting allows for reflection and a greater understanding of Byzantine art and history.
Istanbul Traditional Turkish Bath
Enjoy total relaxation with our refreshing Turkish Bath in Istanbul. Step into the age-old tradition of hammams, where cleaning rituals and pampering take you to a peaceful state. Start with a gentle exfoliation to cleanse and refresh your skin. Then, unwind with a foam massage that uses warm water and expert hands to create a cloud of bubbles, easing away stress and leaving you completely relaxed. Meet at the specified spot and get ready for a trip to wellness and calmness.
Princes' Islands
Get away from the busy city life in Istanbul by taking a ferry to the Princes' Islands, a group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara. The biggest and most visited island is Büyükada, where no cars are allowed, making it great for bike rides or horse-drawn carriage trips. You can find pretty beaches, green pine woods, and old Victorian-style houses. Have a meal at one of the seafood places by the water and enjoy the peacefulness and beauty of these calm islands.
Istanbul is a city full of life, combining history, culture, and modern times. You can visit amazing places like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace. Each of these spots gives a look into the past and shapes the present.
Whether you love buildings, are interested in history, or want to explore a new culture, Istanbul offers you a rich experience. As you plan your trip, think about visiting these places and enjoy the stories they have to tell. Get ready for an adventure in Istanbul that will give you lasting memories.