The 10 best places to visit in Istanbul
Istanbul offers its visitors wonderful sights and interesting places to visit. Of course, it is impossible to list all the best attractions in Istanbul, but here you will find a list of the most interesting ones.
1. Hagia Sophia Cathedral
Hagia Sophia is a former church and mosque, declared one of the greatest architectural works in the world and recognized as the 8th wonder of the world. Hagia Sophia Cathedral is also one of the most visited landmarks and museums in Istanbul and in the world.
Since 2020, Aya Sofia has been converted to the status of a mosque, but this has in no way diminished the historical value of the place among tourists.
2. Topkapi Palace Museum
Topkapı Palace Museum is one of the world’s richest museums and greatest architectural works. The palace used to be the residence of the Ottoman emperors.
3. Istanbul Archaeological Museum
It consists of three museums (Archaeological Museum, Ancient Oriental Museum and Tile Pavilion) located in one place.
The Istanbul Arch aeological Museum is one of the richest archaeological museums in the world. Its vast collection dates back to the earliest civilizations and shows visitors how far humans have come in their development.
4. Galata Tower
This is an old Genoese tower overlooking beautiful Istanbul and a luxurious restaurant at the top. Travelers can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Istanbul, the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.
5. Sultanahmet Square and the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, located in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, is an excellent example of Turkish and Islamic architecture and one of the most visited sights and mosques in Istanbul. It can also be considered a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance.
6. Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı).
The Grand Bazaar, located in the Beyazit neighborhood, is hard to miss. More than 4,000 vendors sell their wares here. Everything from boots and slippers to gold and silver jewelry can be found here.
7. Prince Islands
The Princes’ Islands are one of the best preserved natural areas and attractions in Istanbul.
In summer, the tourist islands boast stunning scenery and pine forests. You can tour the island on horse-drawn carriages and dine at a local seaside fish restaurant.
8. Istiklal Street
Located in the Taksim neighborhood, Istiklal Street is probably the most famous street and entertainment district in Istanbul.
It is a long, colorful pedestrian street with all kinds of stores, restaurants, cafes, street shows and more.
9. Istanbul Amusement Park
Isfanbul Amusement Park is often compared to Disneyland. It is one of the best and largest amusement parks in Turkey. It offers great entertainment for both children and adults.
The uniqueness of the park is that it is a huge complex that combines a theme park, shopping, entertainment and exhibition centers in one place.
10. Sea Life Aquarium
Sea Life Istanbul is an aquarium and entertainment center located in Forum Shopping Center in Bayrampaşa district. It is the 5th largest aquarium in the world.