10 Best Attractions in Istanbul

Let The City of Seven Hills Take Your Breath Away—Istanbul!

Istanbul is a unique city that offers innumerable places to visit for everyone who craves breathtaking historical architecture representing a blend of the West and the East.  Attractions in Istanbul feature beautifully architect mosques such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Mosque, and the Suleyman Mosque, which are famous for their dome styles, delicate calligraphies, and elegant interior installations such as fountains and chandeliers, the vibrant bazaar offers visitors a range of items from bags, jewelry, spices to books, souvenirs, and dry fruits, amazing cruise adventures is yet another most demanded trip that travels to various historical sites and bridges making trip unforgettable. The following are the best 10 attractions in Istanbul that make every visitor’s visit to Istanbul unforgettable.

Hagia Sophia Mosque is considered to be the iconic symbol of Istanbul, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the most visited place by tourists, and an attraction for people who have an interest in the cultural heritage and historical sites. This mosque features a central dome, supported by pendentives, —giving an illusion as if it is floating above the construction—Islamic calligraphy that includes names of the four Islamic Caliphs, the name of Allah and the Prophet PBUH, interior mosaics that depict the Christ and the saints that stun visitors, delving them into rich past. The mosque features Islamic and Christian influences.

One of the best things to do in Istanbul is to enjoy the beautiful architectural brilliance of the Topkapı Palace, famous for its historical architectural designs that include huge courtyards, halls, and the popular Topkapı Daggers which remain the visitor's favorite attraction. The Harem section of the palace, which is believed to have been home to the Sultan's family, is well decorated with intricate tile work. The highlights of this palace include the grand entrance gate that leads to the palace’s courtyards, terraces, and beautiful gardens. This palace offers many exhibits to visitors and guided tours are also arranged.

Famous as a secret and mysterious underground world, Basilica Cistern is located a short distance from Hagia Sophia. This unique attraction is built as an underground reservoir and is believed to have supplied water to other regions. This cool underground trench is supported by almost 336 columns, with gloomy lightning and the echo of dripping water that adds mysterious charm to the place. Popular installations include the Medusa head carvings, making it an ideal spot for visitors who want a break from the city's scorching heat and need to spend leisure time inside this cool architecture.

One of the oldest yet largest bazaars that is famous among food lovers is Grand Bazaar, the best place and heaven for shoppers, culture enthusiasts, and history lovers in Istanbul. Having been established in the 17th century, this place offers a variety of exotic spices such as saffron, traditional spices, nuts, dry fruits, Turkish sweets, gold jewelry and silver shops, beautiful Turkish ceramics including potteries and other handcrafted items, high-quality handbags and jackets, and Ottoman-era souvenirs and artifacts. The vendors offer free food samples to visitors, allowing them to ensure the authenticity of the product before purchasing. The simple location of this bazaar makes it an ideal destination for those who want to purchase a variety of items.  

For visitors crazy about viewing Istanbul's skyline and stunning sunset views, the Bosphorus Journey is a must-try – taking visitors through historical places, crossing famous bridges, giving visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural history of this place. Famous attractions include the Fortress of Rumeli and the Great Tower of Maiden. Many tour packages offer both short trips of an hour or full excursion trips to these attractions with lunch, dinner, and other entertainments.

The street of Istiklal Caddesi is a bustling place that offers a huge variety of shopping options for visitors ranging from local and international clothing brands, souvenir shops, bookstores, antique shops, and other shopping preferences. The well-lit streets offer delightful Turkish cuisines such as patisseries and other dishes. Other cultural attractions include arts and theatres, art galleries, cinemas, and cultural hubs.

eymaniye Mosque is a magnificent spot that stuns visitors with its architectural elegance and classical Ottoman-style domes and minarets. The interior of this mosque consists of well-lit halls for offering prayers with fine, decent decorations. This mosque provides a calm spot from the city's hustle.

One of the best places to visit in Istanbul is Dolmabahce Palace, famous for its blended tradition of Ottomans and Europeans, featuring the Westernized royal lifestyles of the late emperors. This palace consists of spacious halls, many rooms, and a grand entrance made with marble columns and elegant crystal chandeliers. What makes it famous is its extravagant style, featuring a huge crystal chandelier, private living rooms, beautiful gardens, a splendid staircase, and amazing decorations.

The Galata Tower is another famous Istanbul attraction, offering visitors the perfect panoramic views. This tower is believed to have served for surveillance back in the colony period. Today, this spot features a great conical roof, standing high about 67 meters. Visitors can take escalators to reach the observation deck where an unparalleled cityscape view is offered. Popular scenery observed from the top of the tower includes the harbor, Taksim Square, Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus Straits.  

One of the famous Istanbul attractions is the Blue Mosque, popular for its marvelous architecture blended with Ottoman elements. Featuring a huge dome supported by pillars, a spacious courtyard equipped with a fountain, magnificent interiors, and a well-lit area. The interior is designed with floral motifs, Islamic calligraphy, and Quranic verses.