Hagia Sophia

Originally a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, the Hagia Sophia stands as one of the world's most iconic architectural marvels. With recent restoration completed, visitors can now experience its beauty in full. Standing beneath its breathtaking 43-meter-wide dome, soaring 65 meters above, is a mesmerizing experience that challenges one’s sense of scale. A climb to the gallery reveals intricate Byzantine mosaics, including depictions of Christ alongside Emperor Constantine IX and Empress Zoe.

The Blue Mosque / Sultan Ahmed Mosque

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque, is a historic imperial mosque in Istanbul, Türkiye. Constructed between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Sultan Ahmed I, it remains a functional place of worship while also welcoming countless visitors each year.

Taksim Square

Anchored by the Republic Monument, Taksim Square is a vibrant hub of nightlife, shopping, and dining. Along Istiklal Avenue, vintage trams glide past 19th-century facades filled with international shops, theaters, and cafes. Side streets offer bars, antique shops, and rooftop eateries with views of the Bosphorus.

Galata Tower

Built in 1348 as the "Tower of Christ," Galata Tower once held the title of Istanbul’s tallest building. This Romanesque structure, towering at 66.9 meters, offers one of the city’s best panoramic views. The surrounding Galata neighborhood, with its cozy streets and terrace cafes, provides an ideal spot for relaxation and great deals on local fare.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, spans 61 streets with over 4,000 shops. Attracting up to 400,000 visitors daily, it’s a paradise for those seeking Turkish ceramics, lamps, spices, jewelry, and more.

Süleymaniye Mosque

Designed by the renowned architect Sinan for Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, the Süleymaniye Mosque is a beautiful, quieter alternative to the Blue Mosque. It’s more than a place of worship—it's a complex with a hospital, kitchen, and school. The tombs of Süleyman and his wife, Roxelana, and Sinan’s own tomb nearby, are must-see sites.

Dolmabahçe Palace

Situated along the Bosphorus, Dolmabahçe Palace served as the Ottoman Empire’s main administrative center. Built in 1856 by Sultan Abdülmecid, its lavish design features crystal, marble, and gold. Highlights include the Baccarat crystal staircase and the 4.5-ton chandelier in the ceremonial hall. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk later used the palace as his residence.

Beşiktaş Naval Museum

Located in Beşiktaş, Istanbul’s Naval Museum holds a valuable collection of Ottoman naval artifacts. Established in 1897, it showcases the rich maritime history of Türkiye.

Ortaköy and Beşiktaş

Beşiktaş, known for its bustling fish market and narrow streets, offers a blend of neighborhood shops, cafes, and waterfront views. The lively Ortaköy area features a waterfront square with street performers, quaint cafes, and the ornate Ortaköy Mosque beside the Bosphorus Bridge.

Bosphorus Cruise

A cruise on the Bosphorus is a must-do in Istanbul, offering unique views of both the European and Asian sides. Options range from short round-trips to full-day tours reaching the Black Sea. Sunset cruises provide a stunning experience during the summer months.

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

The revered Eyüp Sultan Mosque, located near the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a companion of Prophet Muhammad, dates back to the 15th century. Rebuilt in the 1800s with elegant Baroque architecture, its 17.5-meter dome is supported by two half-domes.

Topkapı Palace

Topkapı Palace, a large museum in Istanbul’s Fatih district, served as the residence and headquarters for Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries. Each sultan added unique sections, showcasing diverse architectural styles. Today, it displays imperial artifacts, books, and manuscripts.

Walls of Constantinople

The formidable Walls of Constantinople, constructed by Constantine the Great and expanded under Theodosius II, encircled the city for centuries. These defensive structures protected Constantinople from both land and sea attacks and remain one of the city’s most significant monuments.