Things to do in Istanbul
- Visit the Hagia Sophia: A stunning masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, originally a church, then a mosque, and now a museum. Admire the blend of Christian mosaics and Islamic calligraphy inside this iconic building.
- Explore the Topkapi Palace: Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, this grand palace is filled with lush gardens, impressive courtyards, and the Imperial Treasury where you can see priceless artifacts like the Topkapi Dagger.
- Walk through the Grand Bazaar: One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops offering everything from spices and jewelry to carpets and ceramics. It’s a shopper’s paradise and a cultural experience.
- Take a Bosphorus Cruise: Sail between two continents, Asia and Europe, while enjoying panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline, Ottoman palaces, and historic landmarks. Sunset cruises are especially beautiful.
- Visit the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): A majestic mosque famous for its blue İznik tiles that decorate the interior. Still an active place of worship, visitors can experience both the beauty and spirituality of this iconic structure.