Top sights
Hagia Sophia
The city's icon across eras — Byzantine, then Ottoman. Go early to beat the queues.
The Blue Mosque
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque with its cascading domes and six minarets — right opposite Hagia Sophia.
Topkapi Palace
Home of the Ottoman sultans for centuries, with views over the Bosphorus and Golden Horn.
Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar
Thousands of shops under one roof — haggle politely and soak in the atmosphere.
Bosphorus cruise
See the city from the water between two continents — prettiest just before sunset.
Galata Tower & Istiklal Street
A panoramic view, then a stroll down the city's most famous street and its cafés.
Experiences worth your time
Turkish breakfast in Kadikoy
Ferry over to the Asian side and try a full Turkish breakfast spread.
Turkish coffee & sweets
Baklava, kunefe, and coffee the Turkish way in historic cafés.
Turkish hammam
A traditional relaxation ritual in centuries-old bathhouses.
Practical tips
- Pre-book major sights (Hagia Sophia, Topkapi) to skip queues in high season.
- The T1 tram links most old-city sights — far easier than driving.
- Modest dress is required in mosques; coverings are available at entrances.
- Plan by area: a day for Sultanahmet, one for Beyoglu and the Bosphorus, one for the Asian side.
Arrange the rest of your trip
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