Istanbul, Turkey

Uniquely positioned at the junction of Europe and Asia, Turkey is a country that shares land borders with eight countries. It is also surrounded by the Aegean Sea to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Black Sea to the north. With over 85 million people, the official language is Turkish, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas (COPENHAGEN DENMARK SITES). 

Most travelers enter Turkey through Istanbul Airport, though there are also airports in Ankara and Izmir. Mention Istanbul, and the words mentioned are stunning, historic, and aplenty things to do in Istanbul. Truly a must-visit city for Turkey travel. No surprise, countless attractions in Istanbul have stood the test of time, drawing travelers from throughout the world (VENICE ITALY THINGS TO DO). 

The city’s classic sites are its well-known, world-famous landmarks. Istanbul also sits on the Bosporus Strait, where East meets West in a way few cities can. Istanbul’s location is as remarkable as its landmarks, making it a must-visit in Istanbul travel guides.

The Blue Mosque
Come whatever season in Istanbul, there is never a moment when the Blue Mosque is quiet. Crowds gather both outside and at a distance, viewing the mosque from near and far. The most common way to admire the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s top attractions. Simply looking at the Blue Mosque in its entirety can feel satisfied, and it can hold one’s gaze for a long time.

 

From a distance, the Blue Mosque stands majestically, its beautiful blue glow capturing attention. Its legendary architecture is breathtaking. The façade is striking, with a large central dome surrounded by smaller domes that step down gracefully. Six tall, slender minarets rise around it, giving the mosque an elegant profile. The stone walls feature pointed arches and tall windows, while the open courtyard with domed walkways adds balance and grandeur.

Also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque is without a doubt a must-visit in Istanbul. To enter, shoes must be removed and placed in provided plastic bags. Modest attire is required as a sign of respect in this active Muslim Mosque. Built in the early 17th century during the Ottoman Empire, prayers are still held here daily.

 

Inside, approximately 20,000 blue tiles decorate the high ceiling. Cascading domes flow gracefully from the central dome, creating a breathtaking effect. Originally featuring 17th-century-stained glass, the interior is now illuminated by 260 windows.

 

Truth be told, visiting the Blue Mosque leaves a lasting impression. It feels like witnessing a true world wonder, giving a quiet sense of achievement.

Hagia Sophia (The Church of Holy Wisdom)
Across from the Blue Mosque stands another legendary landmark in Istanbul: the Hagia Sophia. Originally a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, it is recognized as one of the greatest landmarks in the world, blending Byzantine and Ottoman history under one roof.

 

Captivating from the outside, Hagia Sophia features a huge central dome surrounded by smaller domes. Tall minarets rise on both sides, giving it a grand appearance. Its stone walls, arches, and windows showcase unique, centuries-old architecture. From the courtyard, the structure looks balanced and striking under the sunlight.

 

Stepping inside Hagia Sophia feels inexplicably peaceful. Even with visitors around, silence lingers, and the space never feels crowded. The floors gleam with cleanliness, almost as if reflecting the light streaming through the many small windows of the central dome.

 

Inside, tall columns demonstrate the building’s strength and preservation. Golden mosaics, Islamic calligraphy panels, and subtle details reflect both Christian and Muslim history. Standing here feels like entering a place where time has paused.

Hippodrome
Just a two-minute walk from Hagia Sophia brings you to the Hippodrome Istanbul in Sultanahmet Square. Though it may not be the most striking attraction in Istanbul, this historic site holds significant meaning.

 

Set in an open garden, the Hippodrome features the Egyptian Obelisk, mounted on a marble base carved with scenes of Emperor Theodosius and his family. At the center stands a spiral column marking the Greek victory over the Persians in 480 BC.

 

Originally, the Hippodrome was a horse-racing track surrounded by a road. Without knowing its history, the tall stone monuments might appear simple, yet they hold stories from Istanbul’s ancient past, when the site hosted chariot races and public gatherings.

Topkapi Palace
Visiting Topkapi Palace can easily take around three hours, or for those with more time, even half a day. Reaching Topkapi Palace Istanbul is effortless, as it’s just a short walk northeast from Hagia Sophia.

 

The palace is the largest and one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. Built between 1466 and 1478 by Sultan Mehmet II, it stands atop a hill overlooking the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus Strait, with a view of the Asian side of Istanbul. For nearly 400 years, it was home to the Ottoman sultans until 1924, when it was converted into a museum.

 

Topkapi Palace consists of four courtyards surrounded by various buildings and rooms. Inside are displays of porcelain, robes, weapons, Islamic art, and murals. One of the main highlights is the Imperial Harem, with over 400 rooms where the sultan’s family once lived.

 

Rules on photo-taking must be followed, as not all areas allow photography. Staff give polite reminders when needed.

 

The open gardens offer a nice break from the crowd, where visitors can sit back and rest. There are also cafes near the entrance for a short stop in between. 

Bosphorus Cruise
A Bosphorus Cruise may be rather expensive, yet it remains one of the must-see experiences in Turkey. It brings together the European and Asian sides in a single journey, making it an essential part of discovering Istanbul.

 

Most cruises begin near the Spice Bazaar or the Eminönü ferry docks. Passengers settle in as the boat glides beneath the Bosphorus Bridge, linking two continents. Along the way are sights such as the New Mosque, Galata Tower, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, historic Ottoman houses, and waterfront mansions.

When the cruise turns back along the same route, the thrill may slowly fade as the same scenery comes into view again. Still, a Bosphorus Cruise remains one of the most memorable highlights of Istanbul.

Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar)
Whether for shopping or simply walking around, the Spice Market, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is one attraction that shouldn’t be missed. It is called the Spice Market because spices are among the main highlights of Turkish products, though there is much more to discover.

 

Along with world-famous Turkish sweets, teas, leather goods, and local foods found throughout Istanbul, the market brings them all together in one place. It is also where locals shop, which is why it can be rather crowded.

 

An open-air market with narrow lanes, stone walls, domed roofs, and small arches, its architecture is truly admirable. Shops line both sides, and from the moment visitors step inside, it becomes a pleasant walk for as far as one wishes to go.

 

Bargaining is part of the tradition, and vendors are known for their friendly approach. The local Turkish food sold Spice Market is equally tempting. From the many types of Turkish kebab to dürüm kebab - a rolled thin flatbread filled with meat, fresh vegetables, herbs, and sauces.

 

Grand Bazaar
Another well-known bazaar is the Grand Bazaar, regarded as the most famous marketplace in Istanbul. Similar to the Spice Market, it offers spices, Turkish teas, sweets, and leather products. However, the Grand Bazaar has a much larger selection and a wider variety of goods, including jewelry, textiles, ceramics, carpets, and more.