Istanbul
Istanbul Turkey straddles two continents, Europe and Asia, offering travellers a unique fusion of East and West. Perched along the shimmering Bosphorus Strait, the city has been at the centre of empires from Byzantium to Constantinople to modern Turkey. Its ancient streets, teeming neighbourhoods and panoramic vistas make Istanbul one of the world’s most magnetic destinations.
Historic Heart: Sultanahmet
In the Sultanahmet district, history comes alive. The soaring dome of the Hagia Sophia, once a cathedral and mosque, now stands as a testament to Byzantine and Ottoman grandeur. Across the square, the Blue Mosque stands out with its six minarets and intricate İznik tilework. Nearby, the ruined columns of the Hippodrome recall chariot races and imperial ceremonies.
Imperial Palaces & Hidden Chambers
Just a short walk from Sultanahmet, the opulent Topkapı Palace unveils the sultan’s treasures: jeweled thrones, holy relics and secluded courtyards. On the European shore, the Baroque splendor of Dolmabahçe Palace reflects 19th-century ambition. Don’t miss the subterranean Basilica Cistern, whose softly lit Medusa heads and cavernous columns create an otherworldly atmosphere.
Markets, Spices & Flavors
Istanbul’s bazaars are sensory feasts. The Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets globally, houses over 4,000 shops selling carpets, ceramics and jewelry. A stroll to the Spice Market fills the air with saffron, sumac and rose petals. Sample simit (sesame-crusted bread rings), smoky çay (tea) and fresh lokum (Turkish delight) from neighborhood stalls.
Bosphorus & Beyond
A scenic ferry cruise along the Bosphorus reveals waterfront palaces, fishing villages and the mighty Rumeli and Anatolian Fortresses. Cross to the Asian side—explore the bustling neighborhoods of Kadıköy and Üsküdar, or unwind on the tranquil Princes’ Islands with their horse-drawn carriages and pine-lined paths.
Recommended Hotels & Accommodation in Istanbul
Transport in Istanbul
Avoid driving in Istanbul if possible. Traffic can be very slow due to congestion. If you must drive, read this article for advice.
- Buses: There are 400 bus lines in Istanbul, the majority work until midnight every night. Buses go all over most of the city.
- Tram: There is an extensive reamway visiting most of the tourist areas in the city. The tramway is very clean and has air-conditioning.
- Funiculars: Good for avoiding some of the steep slopes in the city.
- Boats: The public ferry is the best way to get from the European side to the Asian side of the city, avoiding congestion on the bridge.
- Subways: The Metro serves most of the city on both sides of the bosphorus and id a popular mode of transport
- Taxis: Bright yellow taxis are everywhere in Istanbul. Use an app like Use an app like BiTaksi or Uber.
How to avoid taxi scams
The Istanbulkart card can be used on all means of public transport in Istanbul
Top Visitor attractions in Istanbul
- Hagia Sophia – A 6th-century architectural masterpiece that served as both a Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque, now a stunning museum showcasing its vast dome and mosaics. Pre-book Skip the Queue Tickets
- Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) – An active Ottoman-era mosque famous for its six minarets and interior lined with thousands of blue İznik tiles.
Get Tickets for Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophi and Basilica Cistern Tour - Topkapı Palace – The sprawling former residence of Ottoman sultans, housing imperial treasures, ornate courtyards, and the intriguing Harem.
Get Tickets for Palace and Harem with Audio Guide. - Grand Bazaar – One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, offering over 4,000 shops of jewelry, carpets, spices, and souvenirs.
- Basilica Cistern – A vast subterranean water chamber supported by 336 marble columns, famed for its atmospheric lighting and Medusa head bases.
- Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) – A vibrant market brimming with exotic spices, Turkish delights, dried fruits, and artisanal teas under a historic halal trade roof.
- Galata Tower – A 14th-century Genoese stone tower that rewards climbers with sweeping 360° views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus.
- Dolmabahçe Palace – A 19th-century European-style waterfront palace where glittering crystal chandeliers and ornate salons reflect Ottoman opulence.
- Süleymaniye Mosque – Perched majestically on the Third Hill, this mosque complex combines monumental Ottoman architecture with peaceful courtyard gardens.
- Chora Church (Kariye Museum) – A former Byzantine church renowned for its extraordinarily well-preserved mosaics and frescoes depicting biblical scenes.
Evening Leisure
By night, Istanbul is alive with energy at Taksim Square and along İstiklal Avenue, where cafés, galleries and live music are a constant feature. If you want a great view of the city, climb Galata Tower .
In Istanbul, every street, laneway and square tells a story from imperial majesty to urban vibrancy making it an unforgettable tapestry of history, culture and discovery.