Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Istanbul
Istanbul is a city that provides a mixture of history, culture and contemporary life. It also links Europe and Asia, making it unique in the world. People all over the world visit it to see its mosques, palaces, bazaars, and scenery. When you are planning a trip, the list of the best 10 must-visit places in Istanbul will make your visit a memorable one. The city is renowned for its rich history and gorgeous architecture. When you are passing its streets, you can touch the history of the empires that used to reign here.
Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is among the popular sites in Istanbul, Turkey. It was originally a church, and after that it turned into a mosque and now serves as a museum. Moreover, it is more than 1,500 years old and is known as symbolic of the mixed history.
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
One of the finest tourist sites in Istanbul is the Blue Mosque. It was constructed during the 17th century and is currently being used for prayers. Tourists love its six minarets and blue tiles from inside.
Topkapi Palace
The Ottoman sultans had spent centuries at Topkapi Palace. There are treasures and Holy relics as well as imperial rooms that are inside it. The palace has stunning sights of the Bosphorus. It is among the best historical sites in Istanbul.
Grand Bazaar
In case you are a shopping lover, you need to visit the Grand Bazaar. It is also considered as one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. There are more than 4,000 shops where you can purchase jewelry, carpets and spices, and others. It is one of the popular destinations in Istanbul, Turkey, that will never be skipped by tourists.
Basilica Cistern
Basilica Cistern is a 6th Century underground water reservoir. Its rows of marble columns and Medusa heads are intriguing. Its environment is cool and mysterious hence a unique site.
Galata Tower
The Galata tower has the most panoramic Istanbul views. It was constructed in the 14th century and at some time it was tallest structure in the city. Nowadays, it is visited by tourists who hike up the mountain to have a spectacular view. At sunset, the tower is particularly beautiful. It is among the finest tourist destinations for photography in Istanbul.
Dolmabahce Palace
The Dolmabahçe Palace is a reflection of the glory of the Ottoman Empire. It is a mixture of the European and Ottoman styles. The castle is covered with a gold ceiling, and chandeliers as well as marble stairs. The palace demonstrates the wealth of the 19th century. It is among the best attractions for any architect.
Spice Bazaar
Another market worth visiting is the Spice Bazaar. It is also smaller which looks like the Grand Bazaar. People can smell herbs, teas and sweetness in the air. Tourists adore spending their time tasting Turkish delight and shopping.
Bosphorus Cruise
Bosphorus cruise is one of the ways of seeing the city. The cruise is between Asia and Europe. You bypass palaces, mosques and the modern buildings. It is regarded as one of the most popular destinations in Istanbul, Turkey by many visitors. The perspectives of the water are memorable.
Istiklal Street and Taksim Square
Istiklal Street is the modern face of Istanbul. It is a foot street with stores, cafes and galleries. The street ends on Taksim Square, which is always full. The modern culture and nightlife in Istanbul is among the best activities for everyone.
Quick Overview of Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Istanbul
Attraction |
Type |
Best Time to Visit |
Entry Fee (Approx) |
Must-See Feature |
Hagia Sophia |
Historical/Museum |
Morning |
Free |
Dome & mosaics |
Blue Mosque |
Religious Site |
Early Morning |
Free |
Blue interior tiles |
Topkapi Palace |
Palace/Museum |
Morning |
500 TRY |
Harem & relics |
Grand Bazaar |
Market |
Afternoon |
Free |
4,000+ shops |
Basilica Cistern |
Historical Site |
Midday |
450 TRY |
Medusa heads |
Galata Tower |
Tower/Viewpoint |
Sunset |
650 TRY |
Panoramic city views |
Dolmabahce Palace |
Palace/Museum |
Morning |
650 TRY |
Crystal chandelier |
Spice Bazaar |
Market |
Afternoon |
Free |
Turkish delights |
Bosphorus Cruise |
Cruise |
Evening |
300 to 500 TRY |
Bosphorus views |
Istiklal Street/Taksim |
Shopping/Modern |
Evening |
Free |
Red tram & nightlife |
Conclusion
Istanbul is a city of miracles. It is a place of memorable experiences, whether historical landmarks or contemporary streets. By touring the top 10 must-visit attractions in Istanbul, you would have had the full taste of the culture. Visit Hagia Sophia, shop in the Grand Bazaar, or go on a Bosphorus cruise to enjoy more. Not only are these tourist destinations, but they are also historical and beautiful places.