Famous Places in Istanbul

Gokce Nacar

Oct 21 746 read

Famous Places in Istanbul

Here are our top things to do in Istanbul, in no particular order, as Iamistanbul insiders. We selected them not because they are well-known, but because I believe they are worthwhile to see or experience. As a result, we didn't include the world-famous Blue Mosque, but instead suggested something else. We'd also want to point out a few hidden treasures that are frequently missed while planning a trip. Enjoy!

Hagia Sophia

This magnificent structure has recently been made a mosque again- it was a museum before. Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is one of the most important structures in the world. After years of restoration work, the Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) is now free of scaffolding, allowing you to fully appreciate its beauty.

Standing in the center of the vast nave, 65 meters over your head, beneath the 43-meter-wide dome defies belief – and physics for that matter. Climb the spiral staircase to the gallery, where you may see the magnificent Byzantine mosaics, which include Christ flanked by Emperor Constantine IX and his wife Empress Zoe.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Saray) is unquestionably a must-see attraction in Istanbul. For almost half a century, generations of sultans called this complex of kiosks and pavilions, surrounded by four beautiful green courtyards, home.

The Harem, an ornamented 'cage' of the sultan's ladies, the treasury housing the royal jewels (including the renowned Topkapi dagger), and the weapon's chamber highlighting the Ottoman's excellent workmanship even when it comes to forging swords and bows are all top attractions at The Topkapi Palace. Also, don't miss the magnificent views of the Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus, and Golden Horn if you go all the way to the finish.

Whirling Dervishes

The Whirling Dervishes may seem to be a tourist attraction, but they are really Mevlana's disciples performing a devotional session. Through a prayer-induced trance, the Dervishes become a bridge between God and humanity throughout the ritual.

Despite being high on many visitors' to-do lists in Istanbul, it is often skipped since tickets are sold out. Make sure you don't make the same mistake and book your tickets ahead of time.

Basilica Cistern

Istanbul is interesting not just on the surface, but also below ground, with the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan). This magnificent subterranean cistern, formerly used to transport drinking water from current-day Bulgaria to Istanbul through aqueducts, is a magnificent example of Byzantine engineering. Some find it lovely, but others find it somewhat scary, because of the lowered light and classical music playing in the background together with the sound of trickling water.

Watch the fish move between the 336 columns that support the ceiling as you traverse the pathways. The Medusa head, positioned upside down at the base of one of the columns, may be seen if you go all the way to the end.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Rather than the well-known Blue Mosque, I prefer the Süleymaniye Mosque. I believe it is the finest and most magnificent mosque in Istanbul, and it is not overrun with visitors every day. The Süleymaniye Mosque was built for Süleyman the Magnificent by the renowned architect Sinan, and is a fitting monument to both. It's a lot more than just a place of worship. It's a collection of structures that includes a hospital, a kitchen, a school, and other amenities.

Don't miss the graves of Süleyman and Roxalana behind the cemetery, Sinan's mausoleum outside the complex, and kuru fasulye (haricot beans) in one of the Alley of Addicts' numerous eateries.