Best Places to Visit in Istanbul
Most Visited Sites in Istanbul: The first place on your list of places to visit is Topkapi Palace, because of its historical value and architectural splendor.
Topkapi Palace
Built between 1465 and 1478, the palace consists of 4 intertwined courtyards. In 1924, it was turned into a museum and opened to Kubbealti in the courtyard, II. In the courtyard, Babüsseda forms the most remarkable sections.
- After visiting The Has Room and the Holy Relics apartment in the courtyard, I suggest you go to the harem section to get detailed information about Ottoman palace life.
Address: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih / Istanbul
Visiting hours: 09.00-18.00
Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, one of the most important places to visit on the historical peninsula, was built between 532-537
Thanks to architect Sinan’s work, the ancient building, which managed to carry its glory to the present day, has been kept open to visitors as a museum since 1935.
The most important parts are the shrines of the Sultan and I. Mahmud library. Don’t also forget to devote time to the wishing column while visiting the museum.
Address: Sultan Ahmet, Hagia Sophia Square No: 1, 34122 Fatih / Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 09.00-19.00
Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque Istanbul Travel Guide
The Blue Mosque construction, which is called “Blue Mosque” abroad due to the tiles adorning its inner walls, was carried out by Sultan I. they carried it out between 1609-1616 following Ahmed’s order.
After converting Hagia Sophia into a museum, they produced 22,000 tiles in Iznik and Kütahya, which turned the interior of the religious building, which was honored with the title of Istanbul’s main mosque, into a visual feast. Many of the buildings in the complex, unfortunately, have not managed to survive to this day.
Address: Sultan Ahmet, Atmeydanı Caddesi No: 7, 34122 Fatih / Istanbul
Suleymaniye Mosque
Suleymaniye Mosque Istanbul Travel Guide
Suleymaniye Mosque, which architect Sinan calls “my journeyman work,” is one of the most important Ottoman classical architecture examples, was built between 1551-1557.
Simplicity on the exterior of the religious building, which offers its visitors wonderful views of Istanbul thanks to its location, leaves its place inside extremely stylish architectural details.
In the garden of the mosque, shrines belonging to Suleiman The Magnificent and Hürrem Sultan. Architect Sinan’s tomb is waiting for you at the beginning of fatwa Hill.
Address: Suleymaniye Mah, Prof. Siddik Sami Onar Caddesi No: 1, 34116 Fatih / Istanbul
Basilica Cistern
Basilica Cistern where to see in Istanbul
Thanks to its mysterious atmosphere, the Basilica Cistern, which ranks first in the lists of Istanbul attractions prepared by travelers, was built in 532.
The building met the water needs of the Great Palace during the Byzantine period. He even continued the same function for Topkapi Palace until the differences in opinion on religious issues began.
The cistern, which contains interesting details such as Medusa’s heads, is now the scene of cultural events.
Address: Alemdar, Yerebatan Caddesi 1/3, 34110 Fatih / Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 09.00-17.30
Dolmabahçe Palace
Dolmabahce palace places to visit in Istanbul
Dolmabahçe Palace, which adds beauty to the Bosphorus, is an exquisite architectural wonder that sheds light on the Ottoman Empire’s last periods. Built between 1843-1856, every detail that makes the palace unique has the signature of Garabet Balyan and his son Nikogos.
Salamlik, Ceremonial Hall, and Harem in the main building stand out as the parts of the palace that are worth seeing, where the traditional Turkish house-building style is enriched with European-style touches. You can also visit Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s bedroom while visiting the structure.
Address: Vishnezade, Dolmabahçe Caddesi, 34357 Besiktas / Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 09.00-16.30
Galata Tower
Galata Tower places visit in Istanbul.
Galata Tower, which has been taking wing in Istanbul for 15 centuries, first appeared on the historical scene as a lighthouse in 528.
The magnificent tower, which was used for different purposes during the Ottoman period, which the Genoese dominated for a period, attracts travelers who want to watch the landscape today.
The building also has a restaurant with a rich menu. If you go to the second floor of the tower, which is the subject of love stories, you can experience a four-dimensional fly ride.
Address: Bereketzade, Galata Tower, 34421 Beyoğlu / Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 09.00-20.30
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
archaeological museums Istanbul attractions
The Istanbul Archaeological Museums, whose origins date back to the Fatih period, transmit important information to their visitors about important civilizations established on three continents throughout history through the wonderful collections they contain. In total, there are more than one million historical monuments in the inventory of the cultural property.
The museum complex consists of three main parts: archaeology, ancient Oriental artifacts, and a tiled Pavilion. The Archaeological Museum is the most detailed among these sections, while the Tile pavilion focuses on Seljuk and Ottoman artifacts.
Address: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih / Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 09.00-20.00
Grand Bazaar
Grand Bazaar Istanbul attractions
Besides offering valuable opportunities to shopping enthusiasts, the Grand Bazaar, which also gives different clues about the city’s history, has been in existence since Byzantine times.
During the Ottoman period, the part named Cevahir Bedesteni forms the center of the bazaar. The Sandal Bedesten was added during the expansion works carried out following the Order of my Conqueror.
I suggest you go to inner Bedesten to find authentic products. If you feel hungry while visiting the bazaar, you can choose a restaurant with a pool.
Address: Beyazit, Kalpakçılar Caddesi, No: 22, 34126 Fatih / Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 09.00-19.00
Taksim Square & Istiklal Street
taksim istiklal caddesi Istanbul Travel Guide
If you are curious about the ancient city’s daily life, you can reserve a place for Taksim Square and Istiklal Street in your list of places to visit in Istanbul.
Although the Square has moved away from its old charm, thanks to the Republic Monument’s presence, I think it deserves a visit. Also, Istiklal Street is still leading the city’s cultural life thanks to its venues such as Salt Beyoğlu and Borusan Culture and Art Center.
Architecturally spectacular buildings such as the Egyptian apartment building, the Alhambra passage, and Galatasaray High School are lined up one after another along the street.
Kariye Museum
Kariye Museum Istanbul trip
Kariye, which was used as a monastery and church during the Byzantine period and was converted into a mosque after Istanbul came under Ottoman rule, can be visited as a museum since 1948.
The historic building, whose real name is “Chora,” takes a straightforward stance from the outside. In the interior, you are greeted by flamboyant mosaics and frescoes. These works are the most important examples of the period of the reawakening of Byzantine art.
Address: Dervishali, Kariye Mosque Street, No: 18, 34087 Fatih / Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 09.00-19.00
Museum of Turkish and Islamic works
Museum of Turkish and Islamic artifacts in Istanbul attractions
The Museum of Turkish and Islamic works, hosted by Ibrahim Pasha Palace, focuses on the Abbasid, Mamluk, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods.
While visiting the exhibition areas of the museum, which was founded in 1914 and had been operating in the Imaret building in the Suleymaniye Mosque Complex for a long time, you can have the opportunity to examine the Seljuk carpets and various glass, Earth and ceramic objects that draw attention with skill in their construction.
Address: Binbirdirek, Atmeydanı Caddesi, No: 44, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 09.00-19.00
Maiden’s Tower
maiden’s Tower Istanbul trip
The maiden’s Tower, which with its elegance makes it much more enjoyable to watch the view from the coast of Üsküdar, was designed by Alkibiades of Athens to ensure control of the ship Bosphorus. It was built in 410.
The building, which was strengthened during the Roman period to support the city’s defense, has been the subject of many stories throughout its history. Currently, the tower allows its visitors to have a pleasant time through its restaurant.
Visiting Hours: 09.00-19.00
Egyptian Bazaar
Egyptian Bazaar Istanbul attractions
If you want to take advantage of authentic shopping opportunities, you can turn your route to the historic Egyptian Bazaar. Bazaar, IV. It was built by Mehmed’s mother, Hatice Turhan Sultan, in 1661. But its origins are actually believed to date back to the Byzantine period.
In the historical place where transfers and thrushers operated in the early periods, products from different categories are sold today, from spices to confectionery, from textiles to various essences.
Visiting Hours: 08.00-19.00
Rumeli Fortress
Rumeli fortress Istanbul attractions
Fatih Sultan Mehmet wanted to control the Bosphorus before the conquest through the Rumeli Fortress, built-in 1452.
The mighty monarch achieved this goal and left travelers a wonderful legacy that they can add to their list of places to visit in Istanbul. Hisar, whose three large towers are still standing, has long been identified with cultural organizations.
Address: Yahya Kemal Caddesi, 34470 Sariyer / Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 09.00-19.00
Sultanahmet Square (Obelisk, Serpent Column, Hippodrome)
Sultanahmet Square Istanbul Travel Guide
Sultanahmet Square, described as the heart of the historical peninsula, is one of the most beautiful places to spend time in Istanbul due to its intense historical atmosphere.
In Byzantine times, there was a giant-sized Hippodrome in the area where the current Square was located. Besides, a section of the Great Palace extended towards the square. But of these mighty structures, only The Obelisk and part of the Serpent Column remain.
Eyüp Sultan Mosque & Mausoleum
Eyup Sultan Mosque Tomb Istanbul attractions
Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Mausoleum, which attracts people from all age groups with its centuries-old plane trees adorning its courtyard, peaceful atmosphere, was first built in 1458 following the Order of the Conqueror. But when this structure received heavy damage due to the earthquake, III. It was completely renovated during the reign of Selim.
The religious building, which hosts the Sultans’ sword-wearing ceremonies, is notable for its tile embroideries. Tomb of Eyup Sultan and Hazrat Mahdi (as). The Sanjak, dating from the Muhammad era, is the most visited part of the structure.
Address: Central District, Mosque Kebir Street, No: 1, 34050 Eyup / Istanbul
Fatih Mosque
Fatih Mosque Istanbul attractions
The Fatih Mosque construction process, which is the work of Ziauddin Yusuf bin Abdullah or better known as Atik Sinan, was carried out between 1462 and 1469.
In the garden of the structure, which turned into one of the most important religious centers of the period with its 16 madrasas and library when completed, there are many tombs, mainly those of the Conqueror and his wife.
The mosque, which has received more than its share of earthquakes throughout history, was chosen as the place where the Turkish Azan will be read for the first time in 1932.
Address: Calligrapher Nafiz Caddesi, No: 6, 34083, 34083 Fatih / Istanbul
Ortaköy Mosque (Büyük Mecidiye Mosque)
Ortakoy mosque Istanbul attractions
Ortaköy Mosque, also known as Büyük Mecidiye among the people, has been adding beauty to the Bosphorus’s beauty since 1853. The religious building, whose construction was carried out following Sultan Abdulmecid, gains the appreciation of its visitors with its skill in the stonework.
Travelers who devote time to the neo-Baroque-style mosque’s interior get the privilege of closely examining the “Cheharyar-ı Güzin” signs prepared by the sultan himself.
Address: Mecidiye Bridge Street, No: 1 D: 1, 34347 Besiktas / Istanbul
Istanbul Museum Of Modern Art
Istanbul Museum of Modern Art places to visit in Istanbul.
Founded in 2004 under the leadership of Oya Eczacıbaşı, the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art is preparing to move to its new location after welcoming its visitors to its old location, which was once used as a dry cargo warehouse within the maritime enterprises.
The museum, which is on the Istanbul attractions list of art lovers, continues its activities in its temporary building in Beyoğlu.
At the museum, 20. you can understand the artistic change in our country in the century with all its nudity. In this context, sculpture, painting, and video works of various artists are featured in the cultural facility’s exhibition areas.
Address: Asmalı Masjid, Meşrutiyet Caddesi, No: 99, 34430 Beyoğlu / Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 10.00-18.0
Miniaturk
Miniaturk Istanbul attractions
Miniaturk, which has been in operation since 2003, contains 1/25 scaled-down copies of 134 architectural wonders in Anatolian and Ottoman geography.
In addition to the original miniature copies of landmarks such as Dolmabahçe and Hagia Sophia, the cultural property, which is spread over an area of 60 thousand square meters, has details that will allow you to spend pleasant hours such as a mini stadium, ferry, sightseeing train. Just as in Galata Tower, you can participate in a simulation helicopter tour here.
Addess: Örnektepe Mahallesi, Imrahor Caddesi, No: 7/1 Beyoğlu / IstanbulVisiting Hours: 09.00-18.00
Rahmi M. Aries Museum
Rahmi M. Koç Museum Istanbul attractions
Like me, you are interested in branches such as industry, transport, and communication, part of the holiday period you will spend in Istanbul Rahmi M. You can have fun moments by dedicating it to the coach Museum.
Rahmi M. The cultural facility, which continues its work within the Koç Museum and Culture Foundation framework, opened its doors to its visitors in 1994. The museum, which has an area of 27 thousand square meters, consists of three main parts: Lengerhane, the historical Hasköy Shipyard, and an open-air exhibition area.
Address: Piri Paşa, Hasköy Caddesi, No: 5 D: No: 5, 34445 Beyoğlu / Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 09.30-19.00
Emirgan Grove
Emirgan Grove where to visit in Istanbul
When you feel overwhelmed by the chaotic atmosphere of Istanbul, you can immediately head to Emirgan Grove. Koru, located between Emirgan and Istinye districts, was first established in the 17th century. Century IV. Murad gave it to the Emir of Iran, Günay Khan. And then it changed hands often.
The Yesil area, which was nationalized in 1940 as a result of Lütfi Kırdar, has become one of the most important escape areas of Istanbulites with its picnic areas, pavilions, and calm atmosphere.
Belgrade Forest
Belgrade Forest Istanbul attractions
The Belgrade Forest, which covers the eastern part of the Çatalca Peninsula, was the most important water source for Istanbul during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
After his Belgrade expedition, the forest, named after the community that Kanuni brought with him, attracts those who want to walk, run and ride a bike thanks to its long trails. It is also home to various wildlife that, although not as rich as it used to be, is still not considered worse.
Büyük Çamlıca Hill
Where to visit Çamlıca Hill in Istanbul
Once the most important meeting point for lovers who want to stay out of sight, The Great Çamlıca Hill offers exquisite views to its guests, making room for itself in the list of places to visit Istanbul with its 265-meter altitude.
Another feature of the hill is that it is an important stop on the migration routes of birds. September and October are unique opportunities for those who want to observe in this way.
Pierre Loti Hill
Pierre Loti Hill Istanbul sightseeing notes
Pierre Loti Hill, which is mentioned as the best place to watch the Golden Horn landscape with its own beauty, gets its name from the French writer, a lover of Istanbul. More precisely, the pen name of Julien Valud, who enjoyed spending time here, has become the name of the hill over the years.
Before sitting at a table for tea, you can visit the historical structures of Kashgari and Çolak Hasan tekkes and make a wish for something that Alexander Dede wants to happen through the famous well located close to the Tomb.
Ataturk Arboretum
Ataturk Arboretum Istanbul attractions
It is as calm as the Belgrade Forest, of which it is a part. Still, the process of founding the Ataturk Arboretum, which is one step ahead of it in terms of plant diversity, began in 1949 under Hayrettin Kayacık. However, this process was extended until 1982 for various reasons.
In the arboretum, you can go on long walks, except to observe plant and tree species. Of course, by the way, don’t forget to keep your camera with you.
Address: Istanbul University, Kemer, Faculty Of Forestry, 34450 Sariyer/Istanbul
Visiting Hours: 08.30-17.00
Gulhane Park
Gulhane Park place to see in Istanbul.
Gulhane Park, which was used as the outer garden of Topkapi Palace for a long time during the Ottoman period, was opened to the public in 1912. Covering 163 acres, the park contains intriguing historical details, such as the Goths column from the Roman era.
Have stables building, located in the Yesil area where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk introduced Latin letters to the public, has been hosting the Istanbul Islamic Science and Technology History Museum since 2008.
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