Istanbul is a metropolitan city in Turkey and is known for its rich culture, immense history, and stunning architecture. This is one of the most famous cities here in turkey not only because of the mentioned things but also because it connects Europe and Asia. This city has a blend of history and modern world where you can get to know about empires and civilizations centuries ago and where at the same time you can enjoy the modern world with parties, clubs, activities, etc. There are so many neighborhoods where you can go back in time and look at the architecture and style of that period, some markets or bazaars where you can get antiques and authentic items.
If you are here in Istanbul then you must visit these places mentioned in the list below.
1: Topkapi Palace
This marvelous palace was once home to the sultans of the ottoman empire. This is one of the must-visit places in Istanbul. The beautiful architecture, Islamic art, stunning courtyards, intricate tilework, and stories around the palace make it one of the famous places travelers visit during their stay in Istanbul. The beautifully made yards and harem are to explore and get a look at the stunning work done by people so many years ago. Visit Topkapi Palace when you are here in Istanbul.
2: Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a mosque and now a museum, Hagia Sophia has been a witness to so many different events in history. This was built some thousands of years ago and is now one of the famous landmarks here in Istanbul. Visitors can get to explore the area and look at the stunning architecture and marvelous decoration of the area. Hagia Sophia has decorated with marble from top to bottom and these colorful marbles came from different parts of the empire. It contains a library consisting of historical objects such as Turkish tiles, artwork, books, etc.
3: Dolmabahçe Palace
This palace was once home to the sultans and it replaced the Topkapi palace after it was constructed. This palace is a blend of different architectural styles and decor. There is a blend of European designs such as neoclassical and rococo and ottoman architecture. This palace is also been compared to the famous and beautiful palace of Versailles. This is a stunning palace and you can get a tour around one. Get here to explore dazzling ceilings with stunning furniture and to look at the grandeur of this palace.
4: Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
If you are interested in Turkish and Islamic art, then this is the place you should visit during your stay in Istanbul. Turkey has amazing carpet makers and this museum house some of the stunning carpets. The carpet collection present here at the Museum of Turkish and Islamic art is known to be the best carpet collection in the world. Not only does this museum has a vast carpet collection, but it also houses ceramics, calligraphies, and wood carvings that are thousand years old.
5: Bosphorus Excursion
You can get to have the best of views of Istanbul by being in the water. Thus you should get yourself a Bosphorus excursion and relax and enjoy the view of the city. There are several tourist sites that you can see when you are on the ferry. You can enjoy the pleasing vies of the Ottoman palaces, Bosphorus bridge, and other fortresses when you are on the ferry. Enjoy a soothing and relaxing time, having a pleasant view, enjoying the ferry route, and getting to see so many different sites.
There is so much to explore and learn when you are here in Istanbul. Every place here has a story to tell. You can visit the museums, mosques, palaces, and bazaars to know more about the rich history of this place and to learn and explore how people lived back then and you can visit the happening clubs and bars to enjoy the party life of this city. Have some amazing Turkish cuisines here in Istanbul in high-end restaurants and also try some street food. Enjoy your time here in the city joining the west and the east. Plan a trip to Istanbul.