What can I see in Sultanahmet?
Sultanahmet is an ideal area to discover the historical and cultural richness of Istanbul. The Hagia Sophia Mosque brings together the Byzantine and Ottoman periods with its magnificent dome and mosaics. The Sultanahmet Mosque dazzles with its blue Iznik tiles and six minarets. Topkapi Palace, as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, attracts attention with its historical artifacts, sacred relics and Bosphorus view. The Basilica Cistern impresses visitors with its charming atmosphere and columns. In addition, places such as Hippodrome Square and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts are unique places to discover the history and culture of the region.
Which region has historical sites in Istanbul?
Istanbul offers important places to discover in many regions with its historical texture. Hagia Sophia Mosque, Sultanahmet Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern stand out in Sultanahmet. The Spice Bazaar, New Mosque and Sirkeci Train Station can be visited in the Eminönü and Sirkeci regions. Balat and Fener attract attention with their Fener Greek Patriarchate, Iron Church and colorful historical streets. In the Beyoğlu and Galata regions, the Galata Tower and Saint Antoine Church are worth seeing. On the Anatolian side, in Üsküdar, there is the Maiden's Tower, Mihrimah Sultan Mosque and Beylerbeyi Palace. In Eyüp, you can visit the Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Pierre Loti Hill, while around the Bosphorus, Rumeli Hisarı, Anadolu Hisarı and Yoros Castle stand out with their historical beauties.
Where should you visit for a day alone with nature in Istanbul?
There are many options for those who want to spend a day alone with nature in Istanbul. Belgrade Forest is a peaceful escape with its walking trails and picnic areas. Polonezköy Nature Park offers a pleasant experience for nature lovers with its bicycle paths and camping areas. Mihrabat Grove fascinates with its Bosphorus view among pine trees, while Çamlıca Hill is ideal for those looking for tranquility as one of the highest points in Istanbul. Saklıgöl offers a walk and breakfast pleasure around a natural lake in Şile. Emirgan Grove is a favorite among nature lovers with its colorful flowers and Bosphorus view, while Yıldız Park offers a historical atmosphere with its Ottoman mansions and gardens. Baltalimanı Japanese Garden offers a different nature experience with its elegant details specific to Japan. These places are ideal for a peaceful day without leaving the city.
When should I go to Istanbul?
Istanbul can be visited in any season, but the most popular months are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). Tourist density can increase during the hot summer months, so spring and autumn are preferable if you want to avoid the crowds.
What are the most important touristic places to visit in Istanbul?
The most important places to visit in Istanbul can be: Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Grand Bazaar, Dolmabahçe Palace, Bosphorus Bridge, Maiden's Tower, Miniaturk, and many other historical and cultural places.
Where are the best places to shop in Istanbul?
The best places to shop in Istanbul are the Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, Istiklal Street, and Nişantaşı. You can find traditional handicrafts, jewelry, carpets, spices, clothing, and more in these areas.
Where should I stay in Istanbul?
There are a wide range of accommodation options in Istanbul. Sultanahmet is home to many hotels and guesthouses close to historical and touristic sites. Taksim and Beyoğlu are popular for nightlife and shopping. While the neighborhoods along the Bosphorus have luxury hotels, areas like Kadıköy and Moda offer more local experiences.
What are the scenic viewpoints in Istanbul?
There are many viewpoints in Istanbul that offer unique views. You can see the magnificent Bosphorus views from areas such as Galata Tower, Çamlıca Hill, Pierre Loti Hill, and Üsküdar Beach.
Where are the best places to eat seafood in Istanbul?
Istanbul is famous for its seafood. Restaurants in Kumkapı, Balıkçılar Çarşısı, and Beşiktaş Beach offer fresh seafood. There are also delicious fish restaurants in places like Kuzguncuk in Üsküdar.
What are the hidden gems in Istanbul?
Places considered to be hidden gems in Istanbul include the Balat district (colorful houses and streets), Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, and Kariye Museum (an old church), which are lesser-known but fascinating places.
Where are the Historical Places to Visit on the Anatolian Side?
The Anatolian Side of Istanbul offers a rich area for exploration with its historical texture. The Maiden's Tower is fascinating with its legendary structure in the middle of the Bosphorus. The Mihrimah Sultan Mosque is an elegant example of Ottoman architecture. The Beylerbeyi Palace is an impressive structure on the Bosphorus shores that was used as the summer palace of the Ottoman sultans. Çamlıca Hill attracts attention not only with its view but also with its historical atmosphere. Anadolu Hisarı is a fortress built for defense purposes during the Ottoman period, located on the pearls of the Bosphorus.
The July 15 Martyrs Bridge is one of the most important symbols of Istanbul. This engineering marvel connecting the Asian and European continents was completed in 1973 and connects the two sides of the Bosphorus with a length of 1,560 meters. An inseparable part of Istanbul's daily life, the bridge is not only a transportation route, but also a platform offering panoramic views of the city. It offers a special experience by opening to pedestrians during the Istanbul Eurasia Marathon held every October.
Galata Bridge
The Galata Bridge is one of the oldest bridges built over the Golden Horn in Istanbul. Built as a simple structure during the Turkish siege of the city in 1453, the bridge was developed over time. Although Leonardo da Vinci's design was on the agenda in the 16th century, it could not be built due to technical difficulties. Built on pontoons between Azapkapı and Unkapanı during the reign of Mahmud II in the 19th century, the bridge was 500 meters long. Today's Galata Bridge continues to be one of the symbols of Istanbul with its historical texture.
Belgrade Forest
Belgrade Forest is one of the most popular spots in Istanbul for those who want to meet nature. Covering an area of approximately 5,300 hectares, the forest has a rich vegetation with oak, beech and chestnut trees. It is an ideal escape for nature lovers with its picnic areas, walking and running tracks. There is a small fee to enter the forest, which hosts many visitors especially on weekends. Offering a peaceful environment with its natural beauties, Belgrade Forest is one of the must-see places in Istanbul.
Cihangir Taksim
Cihangir is one of the popular neighborhoods of Istanbul with its historical texture and cultural riches. This district, famous for its antique shops, cafes and art galleries, also hosts historical and cultural venues such as the Museum of Innocence, Orhan Kemal Museum and Ağa Hamam. Cihangir, which is frequently preferred by artists and intellectuals, offers its visitors a pleasant experience with its nostalgic atmosphere. While exploring antiques on the streets of Çukurcuma, you can see the modern and traditional faces of Istanbul together.
Galata Tower
Galata Tower is a monumental tower built in the 14th century and is one of the most important historical structures of Istanbul. Used as a fire watch and prison during the Ottoman period, the tower is today a popular spot to observe the Bosphorus view of Istanbul. The tower, which stands out with its height of 66.90 meters, also went down in history as the host of Hezarfen Ahmet Çelebi's flight. Galata Tower is an indispensable stop for those who want to discover the history and view of Istanbul.
Çamlıca Hill
Çamlıca Hill, Peace at the Top of Istanbul. Located on the Anatolian side of Istanbul, within the borders of Üsküdar, it is a spot that offers the most impressive views of the city. Divided into two hills, Büyük Çamlıca and Küçük Çamlıca, this area provides a panoramic view of the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara. One of the highest points in Istanbul, Çamlıca Hill is a must-see place for visitors with its natural beauty and calm atmosphere.
Saklıgöl Şile
Saklıgöl is the Hidden Paradise of Şile. It is an ideal destination for those looking for a nature getaway close to Istanbul. Located within the borders of Karamandere Village, this artificial lake offers a peaceful atmosphere with its natural appearance. Saklıgöl, which provides a perfect environment for nature walks, picnics and breakfasts, is especially popular with visitors looking for silence and nature. You can also do enjoyable activities such as feeding ducks and geese in this lake, which is almost hidden in Şile.
Polonezköy Nature Park
Polonezköy Nature Park is a Breath Away from the Chaos of the City. With its location close to Istanbul, it is a preferred escape point for those who want to spend time alone with nature. It attracts attention with its walking and cycling trails, picnic areas and natural plant diversity. Accommodation opportunities are offered in small boutique hotels, guesthouses or tent areas in the park. Polonezköy offers a unique experience for those who want to get away from the stress of the city with its peaceful atmosphere.
Anadolu Kavağı
Anadolu Kavağı, the Meeting Point of Nature and History. It is a fishing village in the Beykoz district of Istanbul, which stands out with its natural and historical beauties. This area, famous for its mussel vendors and fish restaurants, is ideal for those who want to find peace by walking in the greenery. This village, where the sea and nature meet, offers a unique experience to its visitors with its historical atmosphere. Anadolu Kavağı is a perfect stop to discover the mystical beauties of both nature and Istanbul.
Yoros Castle
Yoros Castle, the Historical Guardian of the Bosphorus. It is a historical structure that is one of the symbols of Anadolu Kavağı and extends from the past to the present. This castle, dating from the Byzantine period, is one of the sacred places in Istanbul since ancient times. The location of the castle offers history and nature together with a view of the Bosphorus. The nearby Hz. Yuşa Hill is another important stop for visitors. Yoros Castle is a historically rich structure of Istanbul
Mihrabat Grove
Mihrabat Grove is a natural wonder located on the Anatolian Side, on the Kanlıca ridge, offering one of the most impressive Bosphorus views in Istanbul. The approximately 3-kilometer walking track provides an experience in touch with nature with the peaceful scent of pine trees. The cafes and restaurants in the grove allow you to take a pleasant break while enjoying the view. Mihrabat Grove is an ideal escape for those looking for tranquility.
Historical Haydarpaşa Train Station
Haydarpaşa Train Station is a historical structure located in the Kadıköy district of Istanbul and is one of the symbols of the city. The station, which is the starting point of famous trains such as the Eastern Express and the Kurtalan Express, was built by German architects during the Ottoman period. It attracts attention with its magnificent U-shaped design and handcrafted details. Hosting millions of passengers for years, Haydarpaşa has been of great importance throughout history as Istanbul's gateway to Anatolia.
Istanbul Aquarium
Istanbul Aquarium, the Unique Address of the Underwater World. It is a modern complex that offers sea and entertainment together, integrated with the Aqua Florya Shopping Center in Florya. Covering an area of approximately 100 acres, this aquarium hosts more than 15,000 creatures of 1,500 different species. Designed with modern technology and one of the largest aquariums in the world, Istanbul Aquarium offers visitors a fascinating underwater experience.
Istanbul Dolphinarium
Istanbul Dolphinarium, An Unforgettable Experience with Dolphins. It was opened in 2008 as the largest indoor dolphin aquarium in Europe. In a total area of 8,695 square meters, there is a 950-person amphitheater designed for dolphin shows. This center, which has 7 different pools filled with sea water and an impressive main show pool, offers an entertaining and educational experience with sea creatures.
Rumeli Hisarı
Rumeli Hisarı, the Legendary Castle of the Conquest. On the European side of the Bosphorus, it was built by Ottoman Sultan II. It was built by Mehmet in 1452. Built to control the Bosphorus before the conquest of Istanbul, the castle offers a fascinating view with its historical walls and towers. Rumeli Hisarı, which also draws attention with the concerts and events held in its inner courtyard, is an indispensable stop for history and culture enthusiasts.
Yedikule Walls
Yedikule Walls, Istanbul's Defense Walls. It is a historical structure built during the Byzantine Empire and repaired during the Ottoman period. These walls, which take their name from the seven towers on them, form an important part of Istanbul's defense line. Yedikule Walls, which still stand today, are a must-see place for visitors who want to discover Istanbul's historical heritage and cultural riches.
Atatürk Arboretum
Atatürk Arboretum is a special place located within the borders of Belgrade Forest in the Sarıyer district of Istanbul and attracts the attention of nature enthusiasts with its plant diversity. Founded in 1927 under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, this arboretum houses both plants native to Turkey and rare species from all over the world. With its ponds, walking paths and peaceful atmosphere, it is an ideal escape for visitors. It is also an important center for plant science research.
Ortaköy Square
Ortaköy is a unique neighborhood located on the edge of the Bosphorus, just below the July 15 Martyrs Bridge. With its seaside location, square and bazaar, it is a center of attraction for both locals and tourists. Ortaköy, which started as a historical fishing village, turned into a holiday resort during the Ottoman period. Today, it offers a lively experience to its visitors with its handicraft shops, baked potato sellers and weekend market atmosphere.
Yıldız Park Grove
Yıldız Park Grove is both a historical and natural shelter for those who want to escape from the chaos of the city in the center of Istanbul. Known as Kazancıoğlu Garden in the 15th century, the grove was used as an entertainment and recreation area during the Ottoman period. After the construction of Yıldız Palace, it was enriched with structures such as Malta Pavilion, Çadır Pavilion and Şale Pavilion. With its historical texture and lush nature, Yıldız Park is a destination that both bears traces of the past and offers peace.
There are so many places to visit in Istanbul that Istanbul, which has been the capital of three great empires throughout history, fascinates its visitors with its historical structures, natural beauties and unique location that connects two continents. Among the places to visit in this city that shares the Asian and European sides, historical structures such as Hagia Sophia Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Sultanahmet Square, Grand Bazaar, Dolmabahçe Palace and Galata Tower stand out. Emirgan Grove, Belgrade Forest, Çamlıca Hill and Islands are ideal places for those who want to spend time in touch with nature. Boat tours organized on the Bosphorus are a great opportunity to discover fascinating landscapes.
Those who want to discover the traces of modern life can have unforgettable experiences in places like Istiklal Street, Galataport Istanbul, Kadıköy Moda Beach and Balat. Istanbul, which has a different beauty in every season, impresses every visitor with both its historical and modern face. When you visit the city, do not return without discovering these fascinating places that tell the story of Istanbul. Istanbul is an adventure full of memories that those who go there once always want to return.
You can get to know this fascinating city better with words such as places to visit in Istanbul, Bosphorus view, historical buildings and natural beauties.
After looking at our list of places to visit, you can get a car rental service with a driver that suits your program. If you only want to go to and from a destination, the Private transfer service may be for you.
