Things to Do in Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a unique city as it is spread across two continents-Asia and Europe. Bosphorus which is a narrow waterbody divides the city. You can experience the best of both Asian and European cultures in Istanbul. The city portrays the traditional values and culture of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. At the same time, the youth are embracing a more modern and contemporary culture. Istanbul is a city where the old and new meet. The following should be on your best things to do in Istanbul while visiting the city:
Hagia Sophia
The Hagia Sophia is a stunningly beautiful monument. It used to be a church and mosque previously. Currently, it is a popular and sought-after museum by most tourists who visit Istanbul. In the middle of this building, the domes are 43 meters wide and 65 meters high. It was subject to intensive restoration for many years. It is free from all scaffolding now which allows you to experience this architectural marvel in its full splendour. You can experience the exquisite mosaics from the gallery after climbing the spiral ramp. The building was converted to a museum in the year 1935.
Galata Tower
If you want a complete panoramic view of Istanbul, then you must visit the Galata Tower. It has 9 floors and on a clear day, you can see the Princes’ Islands which is a popular attraction in Istanbul. There is a restaurant and nightclub in the Galata Tower as well. You can enjoy some of the best Turkish coffee at the base of this tower.
Grand Bazaar
Grand Bazaar is another popular tourist destination in Istanbul. If you want to indulge in local shopping, you cannot afford to miss visiting the Grand Bazaar. It has more than 5,000 shops that span across 60 streets. This place is more than 600 years old and has a place in Turkish history. It was an important trading hub in the 15th century. You can buy souvenirs like carpets, leather, ceramic, jewellery, etc. from here. However, you should be open to bargaining to get a good deal.
Blue Mosque
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque or the Blue Mosque as it is commonly known is perhaps the most popular and iconic monument in Istanbul. No trip to the city is complete without visiting this world-famous Blue Mosque. It gets its name due to the blue tiles that surround its interior walls. You need to follow certain rules before entering inside. You should wear long pants and women should cover their shoulders and head.
Nightlife
When the sun sets, you’ve got some options. From the devout whirling dervishes to the seductive belly dancers, or bar-hopping around Taksim Square in Galata with Istanbul’s young, hip crowd. So those are our tips on Istanbul. What are your’s? Share your advice in the comment box below.
These were some of the best things you can do and the best places you can visit in Istanbul. Tourism in Turkey is better than ever and you can experience safety, peace and excitement on every step you take during your tour to this beautiful country.
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Hotels In Istanbul
| Hotel | Stars | Discount | Price per night, from | Choose dates |
| Vogue Hotel Supreme Istanbul | ★★★★★ | -17% |
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| Hilton Istanbul Bomonti | ★★★★★ | -10% |
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| ISG Sabiha Gökçen Airport Hotel | ★★★★ | -19% |
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| Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamış Marina Hotel | ★★★★★ | -17% |
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| Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel | ★★★★★ | -29% |
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| CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul | ★★★★★ | -49% |
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| Dosso Dossi Hotels Old City | ★★★★ | -21% |
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| Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus | ★★★★★ | -22% |
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| Fraser Place Anthill Istanbul | ★★★★★ | -7% |
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| Wyndham Grand Istanbul Levent | ★★★★★ | -33% |
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| Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus | ★★★★★ | -23% |
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| Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah | ★★★★★ | -6% |
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| Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul | ★★★★★ | -18% |
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| Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Istanbul Tuzla | ★★★★★ | -10% |
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| Hotel Sapphire | ★★★★ | -24% |
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| Basileus Hotel | ★★★★ | -55% |
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| Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul | ★★★★★ | -17% |
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| Radisson President Beyazit Istanbul | ★★★★ | -26% |
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