Must-Visit Places in Istanbul for First-Timers!

Straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, Istanbul is truly a city with a rich history, brimming with beautiful and fun places to explore! Even after a week of fun, it still wasn't enough! / For first-timers in Istanbul, here are some must-visit spots: ✔️Hagia Sophia: One of the top ten most desirable churches in the world, this majestic Byzantine structure is a fusion of a church and a mosque. ✔️Blue Mosque: Adjacent to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is Istanbul's largest domed structure, surrounded by six minarets, making it the only mosque in the world with six tall towers, and one of the top ten wonders of the world. ✔️Basilica Cistern: A mysterious world hidden underground, well worth a visit. ✔️Bosphorus Strait: This strait divides Istanbul into European and Asian sections, with beautiful scenery on both sides. Be sure to take a boat tour here, especially at dusk for a stunning sunset! ✔️Galata Tower: A medieval stone tower, one of the city's scenic viewpoints. Even if you don't enter the tower, taking photos below it is also great. If you want to climb the tower, it's recommended to come in the evening to catch the city sunset. ✔️Galata Bridge Located near the Galata Tower, spanning the Golden Horn, this bridge connects the new and old parts of the city. With many locals fishing on both sides, and pedestrian paths above and below, it's also a great spot for sightseeing. ✔️Grand Bazaar: If you want to buy local products and souvenirs, the Grand Bazaar is a must-visit. Covering 60 streets and housing 5000 shops, it's bustling and vibrant. ✔️Istiklal Avenue: Istanbul's version of the Champs-Élysées, with its must-ride nostalgic tram, truly romantic. The surrounding area also has many quiet, artistic alleys, perfect for a stroll. ✔️Balat District A favorite area among Istanbul's youth, home to many unique coffee shops and restaurants, with colorful buildings that are great for photos. ✔️Topkapi Palace: An old royal palace, once the Ottoman Empire's palace, now Turkey's largest museum, incredibly luxurious inside! ✔️Suleymaniye Mosque: The second-largest mosque in Istanbul, situated on higher ground, visible from the Bosphorus boat tour, and offering a truly great view. / ⭕️ 'Recommended Route': 𝘿𝙖𝙮1: Hagia Sophia—Basilica Cistern—Blue Mosque—Topkapi Palace—Explore the Old City 𝘿𝙖𝙮2: Grand Bazaar—Galata Bridge—Istiklal Avenue—Galata Tower—Watch the sunset from the tower 𝘿𝙖𝙮3: Balat District—Suleymaniye Mosque—Bosphorus Strait—Boat tour at sunset / ⭕️ 'Transport Tips': The Old City can be explored on foot with citywalk. For other trips, you can take buses and boat tours, all accessible with a single transit card. / ⭕️ 'Accommodation Recommendations': For accommodation, it's recommended to stay near the Galata Tower, close to the Old City, with concentrated attractions and convenient access to food, fun, and transportation.