European Side of Istanbul
European Side of Istanbul
Istanbul is a bridge between the Asian and the European continents. It is Turkey’s trade, industry, transportation, tourism, education, culture, and art center. Istanbul is the capital of cultures that has been home to a lot of civilizations. In the city whose history dates back to 8 thousand years ago, it is possible to encounter the cultures of Rome, Ottoman, and Byzantium. Therefore the city is full of history. There lies a story on every corner of this fascinating city. Move along to find out the must-visit places on the European side of Istanbul!
Belgrad Forest
If you want to run away from city and being in touch with nature, you have come to the right place! Belgrad Forest is located on Sariyer. The forest, which called the city’s heart, took its name from the Belgrad People that were settled there by Suleiman the Magnificent. There are historical dikes off the one side of the forest, and Neset Suyu Walking Park on the other side. You should visit this forest, especially in summer and on weekends. Also, there are restaurants inside the forest that you can enjoy your meal!
You can have a wonderful picnic as well. There are picnic areas waiting for you!
Rahmi Koc Museum
Rahmi Koc Museum is on the top of the must-visit places in Istanbul. There are different collections that are exhibited in the museum; Ataturk Section where Ataturk’s personal belongings are displayed, Railway Access and Highway Haulage, Machines, Toys and Patterns, Scientific Devices, The Living Past, Aviation and Navigate, Means of Communications, etc. As you can see, there is something for every visitor!
The museum is located on Haskoy. It is open every day except Monday. Museum card is valid!
Miniaturk
Miniaturk which is located on Beyoglu is a must-see place if you visit Istanbul. Miniaturk enables its visitors to learn Turkish cultural heritage through visiting one place.
You can see many historical places from Selimiye Mosque, Anıtkabir to Mardin’s stone houses. You can also see famous architectural constructions such as Topkapı Palace, Taksim Republic Monument.
You can visit Miniaturk anytime you wish! It is open all year long between the hours 09.00 and 19.00.
Hagia Sophia Mosque
Hagia Sophia Museum is one of the most visited places in Turkey. It got built by Emperor Justinian. After the Conquest of Istanbul, it was turned into a mosque from a church. In 1935, with the decision of Ataturk and the council of ministers, it went public as a museum. And has been opened for worship since 2020.
It is open every weekday, you can discover this gorgeous structure anytime!
Topkapı Palace
The palace got built by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in 1460. It had been home for Sultans and court until the 19th century. After the abolition of the sultanate, with Mustafa Kemal Ataturk’s assertion, it was museumized in the year 1924.
Topkapı Palace where priceless collections are exhibited has a big importance in terms of history. Do not miss the opportunity to explore this beautiful structure!
The palace is open for its visitors every day but Tuesdays. The visiting hours are 09.00-18.45 in summer, 09.00-16.45 in the winter season.
Discover Istanbul’s historical and natural beauty thanks to iamistanbul.com!
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