Visitors to Istanbul can see traces of history, culture, art and entertainment in every corner of the city. Here are some of the most popular activities to do in Istanbul:
Historical Places
Topkapi Palace is the former palace of the Ottoman Empire and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The palace mesmerises visitors with its majestic buildings and gardens.
Hagia Sophia is one of the most important buildings of the Byzantine Empire and was one of the largest churches in the world. Hagia Sophia was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1453 and began to be used as a mosque. The marvellous architecture and unique atmosphere of Hagia Sophia fascinate visitors.
The Blue Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul and one of the most important symbols of the city. The mosque was built by Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century and is one of the most beautiful examples of Ottoman architecture.
The Basilica Cistern is a water reservoir built during the Byzantine Empire. The cistern was converted into a mosque by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in the 14th century. The fascinating atmosphere of the Basilica Cistern mesmerises its visitors.
Bosphorus Tour
The Bosphorus is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. A Bosphorus tour is a great way to see the historical and natural beauties of Istanbul.
During the Bosphorus tour, you can watch the historical buildings, lush forests and unique scenery on both sides of the Bosphorus. Tours usually last for a minimum of 2 hours and a maximum of 5 hours.
Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered bazaars in the world. There are also modern shopping centres and boutiques all over the city.
The Grand Bazaar has been one of the most important trade centres in the world for over 600 years. In the bazaar, you can find all kinds of products.
Nature
Istanbul is surrounded by forests, parks and gardens. Belgrade Forest is one of the largest and most popular parks in the city.
Belgrade Forest is a lush green area located in the centre of Istanbul. You can hike, cycle or have a picnic in the forest.
There are many more things to do in Istanbul. The city offers numerous options for art, culture, gastronomy and more.
Museums
Istanbul is home to some of the most important museums in the world. Topkapi Palace Museum, Hagia Sophia Museum, Kariye Museum and Pera Museum are some of the most popular museums in the city.
Topkapi Palace Museum: Topkapi Palace is the former palace of the Ottoman Empire and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The palace mesmerises visitors with its magnificent buildings and gardens. The museum contains numerous artefacts relating to the history and culture of the Ottoman Empire.
Hagia Sophia Museum: Hagia Sophia is one of the most important buildings of the Byzantine Empire and was one of the largest churches in the world. Hagia Sophia was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1453 and began to be used as a mosque. The museum contains many artefacts from the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
Kariye Museum Kariye Museum was built as a church during the Byzantine Empire. In the 15th century, it was converted into a mosque. There are many frescoes and mosaics from the Byzantine period in the museum.
Pera Museum: Pera Museum is a museum focusing on modern and contemporary art. The museum exhibits the works of artists from Turkey and around the world.
Other popular museums in Istanbul include the Rahmi M. Koç Museum, Istanbul Modern, Sakıp Sabancı Museum and Istanbul Archaeological Museum.
Visitors to Istanbul should definitely visit the museums to discover the rich culture and history of the city.
Local Dishes
Istanbul is a city famous for its rich history and culture as well as its delicious food. The city is home to a wide variety of local dishes to suit all tastes.
Sultanahmet meatballs: One of the most famous dishes of Istanbul. It is made with meatballs, rice, onions and spices and served with piyaz.
Fish bread: It is one of the most popular street flavours of Istanbul. Fish is served between bread and fresh fish such as anchovies, horse mackerel or sardines are usually used.
Dried beans: It is one of the most favourite dishes of Turkish cuisine. It is made with dried beans, rice, onions and spices and is usually served with pilaf and salad.
Kumpir: It is one of the most popular street flavours in Istanbul. Potatoes are cooked in the oven and various ingredients are added on top. Kumpir is usually filled with ingredients such as ketchup, mayonnaise, cheese, salami, sausage, sausage, corn and onion.
Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city where history, culture, art and entertainment coexist, welcoming millions of visitors every year.
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