The bustling Istanbul, now Europe's largest city, straddles the Bosphorus and has long been known as the place where East meets West. Istanbul is a city that blends its culture and history, blending them perfectly into one exciting city with a lot to offer travelers from all over the world. Founded in the Neolithic Age, Istanbul is today a modern city that preserves its historical heritage through Byzantine monuments and ancient bazaars.
In addition to Istanbul's standout tourist attractions such as Topkapi Palace Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, there are lively bazaars, atmospheric old quarters, and a thriving dining and nightlife scene.
10. Spice Bazaar
A true treat for the senses Istanbul's colourful and chaotic spice markets are a fun and fragrant place to explore. One of the most famous and popular covered shopping malls in the city with its spice-filled stalls and shops located in the Fatih district, a short walk from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Built in the 1660s, the bazaar showcases fine architecture and now has more than 85 shops on its elegant interior streets. Besides buying a variety of colorful spices, you can also buy souvenirs and sweets here. From dried fruits and nuts to handcrafted jewelry and Textiles for sale.
9. Kiz Kulesi
The ancient watchtower of Kız Kulesi stands out on a small island at the southern entrance to the Bosphorus. Meaning "Maiden's Tower" in Turkish, it has an observation deck and restaurant with great views of Istanbul.
It is worth noting that a tower has been standing on the island for almost 2,500 years, and everyone from the Athenians and Romans to the Byzantines and Ottomans has erected one. It has served as a watchtower beacon and quarantine station for centuries, and has even been featured in many movies Like Hitman and The World Is Not Enough.
8. Gulhane Park
One of the largest and most beautiful parks in Istanbul Gülhane is right next to Topkapi Palace, a top tourist attraction. Once only accessible to the Royal Court with its opulent grounds and gardens, the park delights with its breathtaking scenery and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
Popular with locals and tourists alike, its tree-lined trails take you past beautiful flower beds and fountains with lush greenery and interspersed woods. In addition, it includes the Istanbul Museum of Islamic Technological History; Sublime Porte is a remarkable Rococo gate It used to lead to the outermost courtyard of the palace.
7. Galata Bridge
The breadth of the Galata Bridge across the Golden Horn is one of Istanbul's most popular landmarks, featured in countless plays, poems, paintings and novels over the years. A fifth bridge on the same site, which connects the city center with the Royal Palace and beyond Important institutions such as Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.
Set off by fishermen, the bridge offers great views of the surrounding waters, with shops, restaurants and small cafes under the bridge. Seagulls screamed overhead boats passed below, the spires of mosques were spied on the surrounding hills, the Galata Bridge really was Atmospheric place to visit, very lively at almost all times of the day.
6. Hippodrome
Now, the arena is a popular meeting place and promenade that used to host dramatic chariot races, gladiator fights and even political debates. While not many are left, there are some amazing ancient monuments and statues still on display in the square, which is delightful.
The arena has been the center of city life for centuries, decorated with statues of emperors, gods, animals and heroes. Although it was sacked in Constantinople in 1204 and most of its stones were transported away, it never really recovered. Highlights now include it's almost The 3,500-year-old Theodore Western Obelisk and ornate German Fountain, alongside the Blue Mosque.
5. Taksim Square
The heart of modern Istanbul, the large and lively Taksim Square is located in the heart of the city, surrounded by countless shops, restaurants, hotels and historical sites. Not only is it a popular tourist attraction and major transportation hub, it also hosts many public events, including parades to the protests that took place.
Besides being one of the last remaining green spaces in the area, it also includes the impressive Republic Monument, behind which stands the magnificent and modern Taksim Mosque. In addition to countless facilities, Taksim is also adjacent to the multifunctional Ataturk Cultural Center Operas and concerts are held here, while charming traditional tram lines meander through the square.
4. Fener & Balat
There are beautiful old buildings bustling with commerce, grand churches and synagogues; the winding cobblestone streets of Fener & Balat are a treat to explore. These two historic districts, located next to the Golden Horn on the European side of Istanbul, are becoming more and more popular with tourists because Their scenic streets and lovely atmosphere.
Formerly home to large numbers of Greeks and Jews, these areas now host many interesting historical sites, such as the striking Phanar Greek Orthodox college, the Ahrida Synagogue, and the Bulgarian Iron Church. Besides admiring all its fascinating architecture, you can also visit its outstanding architecture Local restaurants and cafes, countless antique shops and fairs.
3. Galata Tower
The Galata Tower is 67 meters (219 feet) high and overlooks the Istanbul skyline, offering great views of the Old City and its surroundings. The medieval stone tower known as Christ's Tower was built in 1348 and is the tallest building in Istanbul. It still towers over Istanbul today.
Over the centuries, the tower has been modified and was once used as an observation tower to observe fires. Today, its upper reaches include a café restaurant and a nightclub, both accessible by elevator to nine floors, where one can enjoy breathtaking views.
2. Istanbul Archaeological Museum
The Istanbul Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Turkey and is actually three museums: the Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Oriental Museum and the Tile Pavilion Museum.
Together, the three museums house more than one million objects from civilizations around the world. It was established in 1891 as the first Turkish museum and is located in Topkapi Palace. The history of Tiled Kiosk dates back to 1472. The museum houses thousands of valuable artifacts, including Sarcophagus of Alexander the Great.
1. Chora Church
Chora Church may be a bit off the beaten track, but tourists say the beautiful Byzantine art is well worth the trip there. Magnificent mosaics and frescoes depict the lives of Jesus and his mother Mary. Known as the Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora, it is described as One of the most beautiful surviving works of Byzantine architecture.
Back in Constantine's time, Chora was a monastery. Centuries later, it was turned into a mosque and converted into a museum in 1948.