Turkey

Istanbul

Galata Tower

Starting the day with Galata Tower gives you a perfect frame of the city. It is a high point with a grand view of Istanbul. Make sure you make it to the top of the tower.

Rustem Pasha Mosque

Rustum Mosque is a smaller Mosque to visit. However, it has exceptionally ornate tiles that are worth looking at in detail. Unfortunately, today, many experts say tiles cannot be recreated.

Grand Bazaar

Grand bazaar is quite big and has a lot to offer. It is good to scope out and get a good idea of what is there.

Ferries

İstanbul

You can catch a boat for a sunset cruise down the Bosphorous in this local vicinity.

The first day is dedicated to exploring the central areas of Istanbul and ending with a sunset cruise along the Bosphorous.

Neighborhoods of Istanbul and sunset cruise

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is a legendary temple. The church started from Byzantine and was rebuilt several times over many generations. Today it stands tall and grander than ever.

Topkapi Palace Museum

Topkapi is right next to the Hagia Sophia and is well worth hiring a guide to help understand the rich and intricate history. However, the palace is large and can take several hours to explore, so make sure you leave yourself enough time!

The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is newer and slightly more grand than Hagia Sophia. It sits right next to it, which makes for quite the sightseeing of the two next to each other. Unfortunately, Hagia Sophia has been under restoration, so depending on your timing, you may not be able to see the exquisite tiles inside the building.

The Old City District is one of the highlights of Istanbul. You could spend several days exploring the area, but we went with a one-day power through.

A visit to the Sultan Old City District

Great view point of the Golden Horn

Start the day off with a Turkish Coffee and a great view of the Golden Horn.

Roman Wall

Visit the historic Roman government center along the wall, still standing and in decent condition today. There is a small museum inside that helps give context too. From there, you can explore the local neighborhood to get an idea of some of the area and culture of the area.

Mesnevihane

Mesnevihane unique looking mosque next to the Red School. It sits on top of a steep hill but is worth the hike up to enjoy the view and see the stunning red architecture of the buildings.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Another beautiful mosque is a must-see while you are in the Asian district of Istanbul.

The Asian side of Istanbul is less touristy and more centered around where most of the residents of Istanbul live today. It is a large area with a lot of history to explore.

Tour through the Asian side of Istanbul

Taksim Square

Taksim Square is a beautiful area. Two visible mosques sit right along the square with a stunning statue of Attaturk.

Istanbul University

Istanbul University has some history and sits next to another grand mosque. Worth taking some time in the area. The Grand Bazaar is nearby as well.

Kadıköy

To reach Kadikoy, you must take one of the ferries. It is a lovely area to visit, though. It is less touristy and more centered around where locals go to relax. There are lovely shops and parks there that you can take your time to enjoy.

The last day focuses on exploring Istanbul a bit more freestyle. Ensure you have adequate time to explore the Taksim Square area and Kadikoy.

Exploring Istanbul on your own

Istanbul is a city that has shared several cultures and people over time, and it shows. Today it is rich in history, architecture, and culture. We spent time in Istanbul in the Fall when the season was beginning to cool and enjoyed every minute.

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Neighborhoods of Istanbul and sunset cruise

OPTIONAL

A visit to the Sultan Old City District

Tour through the Asian side of Istanbul

Exploring Istanbul on your own

Exploring Istanbul, Turkey

4

Title:

Owner:

Areas of Travel:

Seasons:

Updated:

Budget Range:

Neighborhoods of Istanbul and sunset cruise

OPTIONAL

A visit to the Sultan Old City District

Tour through the Asian side of Istanbul

Exploring Istanbul on your own