İstanbul

Destinations

The Istanbul Airport Museum, located at Istanbul Airport, is a museum that aims to introduce Turkey's rich cultural heritage to international passengers. Opened on 17.07.2020, the museum is the largest airport museum in the world with an area of 1000 m². The museum welcomes its visitors with a new temporary exhibition every year. It offers a wide collection from archaeological artifacts to Ottoman art with periodically changing exhibitions. A unique stop for those who want to meet with history and art during their journey, the museum offers a short but impressive experience to discover Turkish culture.

One of the most impressive historical structures in Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern was built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinianus I in the 6th century. It fascinates its visitors with its giant columns underground, dim lighting and mystical atmosphere reflected in the water. One of the most striking points of the cistern is the Medusa head statues placed upside down. It is also possible to take magnificent photos with the light and sound shows performed inside. Both an engineering marvel and a historical symbol, the Basilica Cistern is a must-see for those who want to discover the mysterious and fascinating side of Istanbul.

One of the most iconic structures in Istanbul, Hagia Sophia was built as a church by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537. The building, which was the center of the Eastern Orthodox Church for centuries, was converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in 1453 and served as a museum in 1935. Hagia Sophia, which has been reopened as a mosque since 2020, is an impressive combination of both Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. In 2024, the upper floor of the mosque began to serve as a paid museum. Thus, the lower floor of Hagia Sophia became a mosque and the upper floor became a museum. With its magnificent dome, giant mosaics and historical texture, Hagia Sophia is one of the most important cultural heritages of Istanbul.

One of the most magnificent structures in Istanbul, the Sultanahmet Mosque was built in the 17th century by the Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I. It is also known as the "Blue Mosque" due to the thousands of blue Iznik tiles that decorate its interior walls. In fact, the Sultanahmet Mosque complex, together with its complex, is one of the largest works in Istanbul. This complex consists of a mosque, madrasahs, a sultan's mansion, a bazaar, shops, a bathhouse, a fountain, fountains, a tomb, a hospital, a primary school, a soup kitchen and rental rooms. Some of these structures have not survived to the present day. The mosque's 6 minarets, wide courtyard and dome design reflect the peak of Ottoman architecture. Located right across from Hagia Sophia, this unique structure is one of the most important places to visit in Istanbul in terms of both history and architecture.

Chora Church, located in the Edirnekapı district of Istanbul, is one of the most important examples of Byzantine art. Built in the 6th century, this structure is especially famous for its detailed frescoes and mosaics added in the 14th century. The mosaics depicting the lives of Jesus and the Virgin Mary represent the pinnacle of Byzantine art. Previously, the church also contained a monastery complex, but these structures could not withstand the passing of time. The structure, which was converted into a mosque after the conquest of Istanbul in 1453, served as a museum in the 20th century. Today, it is used as a mosque. Chora is a cultural treasure that must be seen in Istanbul for both history and art enthusiasts.

One of the most iconic structures in Istanbul, Galata Tower was built by the Genoese in the 14th century. It has been used for various purposes throughout history, including a watchtower, fire observation point, and prison. Today, the tower serves as a museum and offers interactive exhibitions about the fascinating history of Istanbul. The panoramic terrace on the top floor offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors with its views of the Golden Horn, Bosphorus, and the historical peninsula. Galata Tower offers a wonderful view from the inside as well as from the outside, with its majestic structure that can be seen from almost every side of the city and the light show projected at night. There is also a belief that you will marry the person you climb the Galata Tower with, which makes Galata Tower a more romantic structure. Galata Tower is an indispensable stop for those who want to explore both history and the unique silhouette of Istanbul.

One of the oldest and largest covered bazaars in the world, the Grand Bazaar was built by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in the 15th century. With more than 60 streets and more than 4,000 shops, it is a paradise for shoppers. In 2014, it was ranked 1st among the most visited tourist attractions in the world with 91,250,000 visitors. The Grand Bazaar is often referred to as the world's first shopping mall. In the Grand Bazaar, you can find the most beautiful examples of traditional Turkish arts such as gold, jewelry, antiques, carpets, leather goods and handmade tiles. Getting lost in this fascinating atmosphere, where the heart of trade has beaten from the Ottoman period to the present day, is one of the best ways to feel the spirit of Istanbul.

One of the oldest and most colorful markets in Istanbul, the Spice Bazaar was built in 1664 during the Ottoman period. Located in the historical Eminönü district, the bazaar houses many local products, from spices to Turkish delight, from nuts to rare herbs. This bazaar, filled with wonderful spice scents, was a trade center where products from Egypt were sold during the Ottoman period. Today, the Spice Bazaar is a popular destination for both local and foreign visitors and is an ideal destination for those who want to discover traditional Turkish flavors.

Located on the historical peninsula of Istanbul, the Hippodrome was a large square where horse races and ceremonies were held during the Roman and Byzantine periods. This area, known today as Sultanahmet Square, is one of the most important historical points of Istanbul. Ancient monuments such as the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column and the Obelisk of Constantine still stand in the middle of the square. During the Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire, the Hippodrome maintained its importance as the city's meeting, entertainment, excitement and sports center until the 10th century. In addition to chariot races, musician groups, dancers, acrobats, wild animal fight shows and meetings were held. There were plenty of holidays for all these activities during the Roman period. The Hippodrome was also the center of rebellions against the state during the Byzantine period. The Nika Revolt during the reign of Justinian is one of these, and it was suppressed when Commander Belisarios killed around 30,000 of the rebels he cornered here. Later, Emperor Andronikos I was lynched here in 1185. Although the importance of the square decreased during the Ottoman period, today it continues to be one of the most touristic spots in Istanbul with its historical atmosphere and surrounding structures such as Hagia Sophia and the Sultanahmet Mosque.

One of the greatest masterpieces of the Ottoman Empire, the Süleymaniye Mosque is also one of the most important examples of Classical Ottoman Architecture. Despite over a hundred earthquakes in Istanbul since its construction, not a single crack has formed in the walls of the mosque. Built in 1557, the Süleymaniye Mosque represents the magnificence of Ottoman architecture with both its magnificent dome and elegant details. Located on a high hill overlooking the Golden Horn, the mosque offers a magnificent view of Istanbul. The simple yet impressive design of the interior reflects the finer points of Ottoman art. The mosque complex also includes a madrasah, library, bathhouse, and the tombs of Sultan Süleyman and Hürrem Sultan.

Located on Çamlıca Hill in Istanbul, Çamlıca Islamic Civilizations Museum has a rich collection of Ottoman and Islamic art. The museum is located in the Çamlıca Mosque complex and exhibits works from different periods of Islamic culture. Many historical artifacts such as manuscripts, calligraphy examples, personal belongings of Ottoman sultans and religious objects offer visitors the opportunity to get to know the art and culture of Islamic civilization. The museum is open every day of the week except Mondays from 09:00 to 17:30

One of the most fascinating experiences of Istanbul, a private Bosphorus tour offers the opportunity to explore the European and Asian sides of the city from a panoramic perspective. By determining your own route, you can embark on an unforgettable journey accompanied by Ottoman palaces, historical mansions, bridges and natural beauties. These tours organized on private boats become even more impressive with sunrise and sunset views. There are also many organization options for marriage proposals, birthday dinners and wedding anniversaries. For those who want to have a luxurious and romantic experience, private Bosphorus tours are a unique way to feel the magnificence of Istanbul in the best way.

One of the most important museums in the world, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is the first museum established during the Ottoman period. The interest in collecting historical artifacts during the Ottoman period can be seen since the reign of Fatih Sultan Mehmed, but the official institutionalization of museums coincided with the establishment of the Istanbul Archaeological Museums as the 'Hümayun Museum' in 1869. Located close to Topkapı Palace, the museum has a rich collection of ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilizations. The most striking works of the museum include the Alexander Sarcophagus, the Sarcophagus of the Weeping Women, the Kadesh Treaty and ancient tablets. It is one of the cultural treasures of Istanbul that must be visited by archaeology, art and history enthusiasts. The museum is open every day of the week between 09:00 and 17:30.

The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, located in Sultanahmet Square, has one of the most important art and culture collections from the Ottoman period to the present day. Founded in the 16th century in the Pargalı İbrahim Pasha Palace, the museum exhibits works from different periods of Islamic art. Manuscripts, examples of calligraphy, Ottoman carpets, ceramics and ethnographic collections are among the most striking pieces of the museum. This museum, which displays the development of Turkish and Islamic art with its rich collection, is one of the most valuable museums in Istanbul for culture and history enthusiasts.

The administrative center of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years, Topkapi Palace is one of the most magnificent structures in Istanbul. Today, the palace attracts large crowds of tourists and is one of the most important historical monuments in the Istanbul Historical Peninsula, which was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985. Built in the 15th century by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, the palace is an important structure where the sultans lived, state affairs were conducted and the Ottoman treasury was kept. Inside the palace, there is the Harem, the Chamber of Sacred Relics, the Sultan's Throne Room, the Treasury Section and terraces with a magnificent view of the Bosphorus. Among the most important works are the swords and jewelry belonging to the Ottoman sultans and the sacred relics of the Prophet Muhammad. For those who want to feel Ottoman history up close and travel back in time in the fascinating atmosphere of the palace, Topkapi Palace is a must-see.

Located on the shores of the Bosphorus, Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the most magnificent and magnificent structures of the Ottoman Empire. Built by Sultan Abdulmecid in the 19th century, the palace offers a perfect combination of Western architecture and Ottoman ornaments. The palace, which draws attention with its magnificent architecture reminiscent of European palaces, gold-embroidered ceilings, giant crystal chandeliers and elegant furniture, was used as the administrative center in the last period of the Ottoman Empire. The room where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, spent his last days is also located here. Visitors can have an unforgettable experience intertwined with history in the palace's Muayede Hall, Harem Section, Crystal Stairs and gardens with a magnificent Bosphorus view. Dolmabahçe, one of the most impressive palaces in Istanbul, is a structure that must be seen with both its architecture and historical atmosphere.

Located in the Hasköy district of Istanbul, the Rahmi M. Koç Museum is one of the most important museums displaying Turkey's industrial, transportation and engineering history. Opened in 1994, the museum showcases industrial development from the Ottoman period to the present day. The museum displays a wide range of classic cars, steam locomotives, airplanes, submarines, ship models, old scientific instruments and machine parts. The Turgut Reis Submarine and nostalgic train wagons, which visitors can tour, are among the most interesting sections of the museum. A unique discovery point for industry and technology enthusiasts, the Koç Industrial Museum offers an interactive and entertaining experience for both adults and children. The museum is open every day of the week except Mondays from 09:30 to 17:00.

Hotels in İstanbul

Swissotel Bosphorus
Swissotel Bosphorus
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Istanbul, 1.5 km from the city center Located on the Bosphorus shoreline The 5-s...
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Hilton hotel bosphorus
Hilton hotel bosphorus
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Istanbul, 1.5 km from the city center Located on the Bosphorus shoreline The 5-s...
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Conrad Hotel Bosphorus
Conrad Hotel Bosphorus
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Istanbul, 1.5 km from the city center Located on the Bosphorus shoreline The 5-...
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Radisson President Old Twon Istanbul
Radisson President Old Twon Istanbul
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Istanbul, 0.6 km from the city center Located in the heart of the Old Town The ...
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Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
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Istanbul, 0.1 km from the city center Located in the heart of the Old Town The ...
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Tours from Istanbul

Tours from Istanbul

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