Istanbul Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
Hagia Sophia Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
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.
Fall in love with Hagia Sophia
#mymymemories
Hagia Sophia- a major cultural & historical site in Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia was built in 537 AD by the Roman Empire. It has gone from an Orthodox Church to a Museum, and now today Mosque.
The scale & history when you step in side is truly amazing.
Getting To the Mosque. You can reach Hagia Sophia by taking the Tran line T1 and getting off at the Sultanahmet Stop. Metro line M2 as well as the Train to Marmaray stop will also drop you off near the monument
#travel
#mymymemories
The beautiful architecture of Hagia Sophia
The historic and iconic architectural masterpiece - Hagia Sophia, also known as Ayasofya in Turkish that known for its magnificent structure and l history that spans over a millennium.
Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul was listed under a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. Now has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to admire its stunning architecture, intricate mosaics, and its complex history.
#history #unescoheritage #unescoworldheritage #turkey #museum #istanbul #mosque #travel
🇹🇷 The Most Fascinating Mosque 🕌
Attraction: Hagia Sofia
Address: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Direction: Walk few minutes from Sultan Ahmet Tram station
Hagia Sofia is probably the most iconic landmark of turkey, visited by millions every year. Hagia Sophia is a great architectural beauty and an important monument both for Byzantine and for Ottoman Empires. Once a church, later a mosque, became a museum and then a mosque again. It was built 1500 years ago. The beauty of the mosque will forever be kept in your mind! It definitely is a MUST visit place to visit in Turkey.
Tip: come early as the queue can get very long!
#timetotravel #Istanbul #turkey #mosque #history
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The Blue Mosque Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
The Blue Mosque - Istanbul
The majestic Blue Mosque was built in the first half of the 17th century. The marble walls are decorated with traditional Islamic blue tiles with floral patterns. Instead of four minarets, the temple is surrounded by six towers with balconies. Inside the prayer hall, in the under-dome spaces, sayings from the Koran are inscribed in a circle. The main dome rests on four massive columns with a diameter of 5 m, completely covered with plant patterns.
The interior, as well as the exterior, is dominated by blue and light blue tones. Daylight enters the hall through 260 windows decorated with stained glass. The courtyard is surrounded on both sides by arcades. Next to the mosque stands the mausoleum of Sultan Ahmed I, by whose decree the shrine was built.
Sultan Ahmet, Atmeydanı Cd. No:7
#i̇stanbultrip
5 most Instagramable spots in Istanbul 🇹🇷
Top 5 most Instagramable spots in Istanbul 🇹🇷
📍 Sultan Ahmed District
1️⃣ Hagia Sophia
Step inside the Hagia Sophia to witness the awe-inspiring blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
2️⃣ Blue Mosque also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque
The iconic Mosque recently restored is an architectural wonder.
3️⃣ Colourful row of houses on the Yerebatan Cad
Just a stone throw away from the Blue Mosque this picturesque colourful street also have some restaurants & shops.
4️⃣ Grand Bazaar
With more than 4000 stores, no wonder this place is call the Grand Bazaar. Always remember to take your time to compare prices & remember which gate you came in.
5️⃣ Seven Hills Restaurant
A popular rooftop restaurant in the district that serves all meals.
#hagiasophia #grandbazaar #Sevenhills #Dotzsoh #Istanbul #Turkey #Sultanahmed
Unmissable Mosque
The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is an iconic marvel in Istanbul, Turkey. Completed in 1616, its nickname comes from the stunning blue tiles adorning its interior walls. Its grandeur reflects classic Ottoman architecture, featuring cascading domes and six elegant minarets. This historical site holds immense cultural and religious significance, functioning as both a mosque and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors are captivated by its vast prayer hall, intricate designs, and peaceful atmosphere. The mosque's courtyard is adorned with beautiful fountains, creating a serene ambiance. It stands adjacent to the Hagia Sophia, creating a picturesque skyline, and continues to be a symbol of Istanbul's rich heritage and architectural brilliance.
#freehotelstay #istanbul#architecture
THE STUNNING BLUE MOSQUE IN ISTANBUL!
THE BLUE MOSQUE IN ISTANBUL TURKEY IS ALSO KNOWN BY ITS OFFICIAL NAME, THE SULTAN AHMED MOSQUE WITH 43 METERS DOME HEIGHT AND 23.50 METERS DOME DIAMETER WHICH WAS CONSTRUCTED BETWEEN 1608 AND 2617 DURING THE RULE OF AHMED I.
THE MAGNIFICENT MOSQUE IS AN OTTOMAN ERA HISTORICAL IMPERIAL MOSQUE AND REMAINS A FUNCTIONING MOSQUE TODAY.
THE MOSQUE ATTRACTS A LARGE NUMBER OF TOURISTS AND IS ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC AND POPULAR MONUMENTS OF OTTOMAN ARCHITECTURE.
#passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport
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Topkapi Palace Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
Topkapi Palace 🏰🇹🇷
#fallingseason
Exploring the Topkapi Palace in autumn is like stepping into a time machine. This historic gem, located in the heart of Istanbul, is even more enchanting amidst the changing leaves and cooler weather.
The palace's location, with stunning views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, is awe-inspiring. The surrounding gardens, adorned with colorful foliage, add a serene touch to the experience. Wandering through its courtyards and rooms, you're transported to a bygone era of opulence and grandeur.
The nearby Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque make it a perfect spot for a historical tour. In autumn, the Topkapi Palace offers a glimpse into the past amidst a picturesque setting, creating an unforgettable journey through history and nature. #turkey #Istanbul
magnificent century drama was filmed here
📍Topkapi Palace, Istanbul Turkiye
The entrance fee of museums in Turkey varies depends on season. Free audio guide included in the ticket fee.
To avoid crowds or long queue to buy ticket;
1. Come as early as 8am
2. Go to the ticket counter behind Hagia Sophia
The palace is huge, allocate at least 3 hour to explore. It is divided into different courtyard, each exhibit different relics and era.
One of the most important for Muslims: there is an exhibition of our Prophet’s relics such as His beard, sword, and other belongings. The Prophet’s companions’ belongings is included too.
The view from Topkapi is amazing! It is facing the Bosphorus straits.
*p/s: the simit (last pic) sold outside of the topkapi exit is one of the best!
#awesomepic #turkiye #istanbul #travel
@ TOPKAPI PALACE MUSEUM IN ISTANBUL!
THIS HUGE, OPULENT 15TH CENTURY PALACE WAS OCCUPIED BY SULTANS FOR 400 YEARS FILLED WITH OTTOMAN TREASURES.
THIS MUSEUM IS ANOTHER TOURIST HOTSPOT IN ISTANBUL, TURKEY. ANOTHER MUST VISIT SPOT AND ADVISABLE TO PURCHASE THE TICKETS IN ADVANCE TO AVOID THE LONG QUEUE.
THE PALACE IS ONE OF THE WORLD'S SURVIVING PALACES AND WAS BUILT BETWEEN 1460 AND 1478 UNDER THE ORDERS OF SULTAN MEHMED II, A FEW YEARS AFTER HE SUCCESSFULLY CONQUERED CONSTANTINOPLE.
#passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport
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Topkapi Palace Istanbul 🏰
#timetotravel
Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is a regal masterpiece that transports you back to the splendors of the Ottoman Empire. As you step through its majestic gates, you'll be awed by the opulence and history that fills every corner.
Wandering through its lush courtyards, opulent halls, and stunning gardens, you'll feel like royalty. The Harem, with its intricate tile work and secluded chambers, whispers tales of intrigue and luxury. The Treasury dazzles with its display of jewels, including the famous Topkapi Dagger.
From the palace terraces, the panoramic view of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn is breathtaking. The Imperial Gate offers a glimpse into Ottoman power, while the serene Iftar Pavilion provides a moment of tranquility amidst grandeur.
Topkapi Palace is a treasure trove of history and culture, where the past comes alive in every exquisite detail. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand Istanbul's rich heritage.
#istanbul #palace #instatravel #trip
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Galata Tower Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
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.
Encounter the romantic city of Istanbul
The red vintage tram, the seagulls over the Galata Tower, the sunset at the Suleymaniye Mosque. These are the romance of Istanbul.
Istanbul, Turkey, has a history as bright as the stars and intoxicating natural scenery. In this place that exudes both classical and modern charm, everything can be romantic to the extreme.
To encounter romance, you must come to the Galata Bridge in Istanbul. The bridge spans the two continents of Asia and Europe. There are many famous ancient sites on both sides of the bridge. The bridge connects the old city and the new city, and the fishing rods on the bridge form a new landscape, especially at sunset, the scene is spectacular. Looking from one side, various fishing rods are arranged at a 45-degree angle, as if they are lining up to welcome guests from afar.
On the Galata Bridge, you can enjoy the scenery on both sides. When the weather is clear, the Bosphorus Strait is cloudless, the sea is blue, and the cruise ship passes under the Galata Bridge. The seagulls follow the cruise ship, high and low, becoming the most agile embellishment of the beautiful bay.
Walking on the Galata Bridge at sunset, looking at the Galata Tower, the seagulls flying around the Galata Tower in the twilight, and the mosque on the top of the mountain against the soft and dreamy sky.
The Galata Tower is a landmark of the new city of Istanbul. Today, it still dominates the skyline north of the Golden Horn. Climbing to the top of the tower, you can have a 360-degree view of Istanbul.
@ GALATA TOWER IN ISTANBUL!
BUILT AS A WATCHTOWER AT THE HIGHEST POINT OF THE LOST WALLS OF GALATA, THE TOWER IS NOW AN EXHIBITION SPACE AND MUSEUM..
THE TOWER IS A SYMBOL OF BEYOGU AND ISTANBUL. THE ENTRANCE TICKET HAS BEEN INCREASED BUT THE TOWER IS WORTH A VISIT. ONCE YOU ENTER, THERE IS NOTHING MUCH INSIDE BUT THE VIEW FROM THE TOWER IS AMAZING
#passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport
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🇹🇷 The magnificent Galata Tower 🏰
Attraction: Galata Tower
Address: Bereketzade, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 10pm
Galata Tower is a stone tower located in the Galata district of Istanbul, Turkey. It is 67 meters tall and has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Istanbul. The tower was constructed in 1348 and over the centuries, it has served various purposes, including as a watchtower, a lighthouse, and even a prison. One of the main attractions of Galata Tower is its observation deck, which offers amazing panoramic views of Istanbul.
Tip: Arrive early during weekends as the queue can be very long.
#timetotravel
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Istanbul Airport Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
STOPOVER @ ISTANBUL AIRPORT.
ISTANBUL AIRPORT IS THE LARGEST OF 2 INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS SERVING ISTANBUL TURKEY. THE DISTANCE FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE CITY IS ABOUT 54 KILOMETERS. THE AIRPORT IS LOCATED NORTHWEST OFF THE CITY IN THE ARNAVUTKOY DISTRICT. THE AIRPORT HAS 1 TERMINAL IN SERVICE FOR DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS.
#2023travelwish #mytripvlog #foodie #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #mytripvlog #awesomepic #cafe #summervacation #celebratewithtrip #passionpassport #2023travelwish #couplestrip
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Traveler’s Favorite DutyFree@Istanbul Airport
Ever wander around Istanbul Airport(IST)? Well for first timer, I’m glad to have the chance to do so in the world’s biggest airport. IST is in fact spread across departures and arrivals with lot of duty free shops, restaurants, cafes, currency exchange and other facilities you can find for an airport. Passengers may find wide variety of local and international brand stores around the airport too😁.
#shopandtrip #travelwithgeo #summervacation #internationalairport #istanbul #travelphotography
shopandtrip
travelwithgeo
A Big Nice Airport
Istanbul Airport is the main international airport serving Istanbul, Turkey. It is located in the Arnavitkoy district on the European side of the city. It is around 40 kilometers away from Taksim. You can reach here either by taxi, the cheapest is by havabus at 87 TL per person and it takes around 45 minutes.
Once you pass the security control, there are plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes to serve you while you are waiting for your flight.
The Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles lounge located on the 2nd floor overlooking the shopping area, add pleasure to your precious time with gourmet delicacies, rest, work areas and other special facilities.
Istanbul
Istanbul the gateway to Asia and Europe. Istanbul is consider Asia but in fact it is just beside Europe .. .the capital of Turkey 🇹🇷. 3 days stop over at Istanbul.. nice country friendly people . and english is fairly spoken here totally no issue for free and easy transport is cheap and will get you to major part of the city .. from old town to new town , one could walk across the bridge 🌉 to get from old to new . #istanbul
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Recommended Attractions at Popular Destinations
Popular Restaurants in Istanbul