Istanbul is a city straddling between two continents, it's surreal beauty makes it stand out from any other city in Turkey. There are many fascinating places in Istanbul that are worth exploring, for a vacation that would never wane out. While you are frolicking through the city, delve into its enriched history with myriads of civilizations coming together to bless the country with a colorful history and heritage. The sprawling city has magnificent buildings, museums, shopping spots, food outlets and much more along with plenty of gorgeous places to visit in Istanbul.
Top Places to Visit in Istanbul
Planning a trip to Istanbul, well it can be quite tricky because the city is wide with places scattered in all directions. Here is a list of the most happening and best places to visit in Istanbul, so that you can live a holiday more Conveniently.
1. Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) Mosque
Hagia Sophia, officially known as the Holy Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, was built in Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 537 C. It is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul worth . Earlier a church, later a mosque, and now a museum at the Turkish Republic, Hagia Sophia has a hypnotic architecture known as the best of its time. It is an undeterred fact that Istanbul has been a mystical country hosting multiple civilization. Byzantine and Ottoman are the two most famous of them and Hagia Sophia is a perfect synthesis where one can observe both Ottoman and Byzantium effects
Location: Aya Sofya Meydanı, Sultanahmet
Timing: 24x7
2. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Cami)
Blue Mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 is said to be Sultan Ahmet I's architectural gift that he offered to his capital. The construction was completed in1617 right before the end of Sultan Ahmet’s 27-year-old eponymous patronage. This mosque is one of the most beautiful Istanbul places to visit, that must be explored by everyone stepping into the city. The Mosque magnanimously dominates the majestic skyline. The architecture of the mosque is considered the last classical Ottoman structure. Adore the beautiful design of cypress trees, tulips, roses, and fruits evoking visions of a bountiful paradise.
Location: Sultan Ahmet, Atmeydanı Cd. No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
Timing: Monday to Sunday 9AM to 7PM
3. Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı)
If you are on a vacation there are various things that will captivate your attention and apart from the tourist attractions, shopping in Istanbul is what you would crave. Grand Bazaar is popularly known as Kapalı Çarşı that entices all the tourists and localities. If you are someone who loves shopping then you must know that this covered market is the world’s first shopping mall. It is the largest covered market with around 60 streets and 5000 shops. Yet another most interesting fact about this stunning shopping spot in Istanbul is that it caters to almost 250,000 to 400,000 visitors daily. While you are there you can get your hands on jewellery, ceramics, carpets spices, antiques and what not!
Location: Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. No:22, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
Timing: Monday to Sunday 10AM to 6PM
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4. Dolmabahçe Palace
Visiting Dolmabahçe Palace is among the most exciting thing to do in Turkey, as it represents the influence of Europe on the Ottoman Empire during the 19thcentury. The palace was built by Sultan Abdülmecid I in 1854 and the Sultans made it into their residence from Topkapı Palace. It is a tremendous place with beautiful mountains, flower gardens on the outside and interiors are consist of elements from Rococo, Baroque and Ottoman. These elements include crystal chandeliers, French-style furnishings and frescoed ceilings. If you are on a vacation to Turkey, you should definitely visit this palace, its beauty will immediately sweep you off your feet.
Location: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey
Timing: Tuesday to Saturday 9AM to 4PM
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5. Miniaturk
Imagine yourself going back to your childhood days? No, it's not a time machine but it is no lesser. Miniaturk is that place in Istanbul that must be visited at least once by all travelers. It is one of the best things to do in Istanbul, with 114 miniature models of famous structures. It is located in the golden horn regions of Istanbul and is known as the largest miniature park in Istanbul. There are multiple restaurants onsite where you can relish mouthwatering food and relax, apart from that you can find several shops to get your hands on souvenirs.
Location: Örnektepe, İmrahor Cd. No:7, 34445 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey
Timing: Monday to Sunday 9AM to 6PM
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6. Uzunya Beach
Uzunya beach is amongst the best sights in Istanbul, known for its picturesque views. Plan a trip to this, one of the most happening beaches in Istanbul with family at Uzunya Beach and take a perfect escape from the daily chaos. The beach is located in Demircikoy region of Kilyos and can be accessed through public transport. You can also enjoy exciting caravans camping, trekking and other fun activities. Discover the serenity of the atmosphere and while relishing the mouth watering cuisines located at Uzunya Beach restaurants that is known to serve fresh and delectable seafood.
Location: Kilyos road, Dalyan region, Demirciköy – Kilyos – Sarıyer
Timing: 24x7
7. Istinye Park
The very thought of visiting best mall in Istanbul would drag your attentions toward Istinye park, located in the Sarıyer district. Giving a boost to the shopping experience of people in the city, this shopping complex is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul for a shopping spree. Stretching over to an area of 242.000 sqm, this centre offers a variety of outdoor and indoor sections that cater to the daily and luxury needs of people coming over for shopping. There is a kids’ entertainment centre where you can leave your kids while you purchase your essentials, besides that Istinye park has Hillside Sports and Leisure Club, and The Bazaar which is an area inspired by historical Turkish architecture comprising 12 movie halls, one of which being IMAX 3D.
Address: İstinye Bayırı Cad. No: 73, Sarıyer – Istanbul
Timing: Sunday to Saturday 10Am to 10 PM
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8. Forestanbul
If you are a wild soul who loves taking it raw, and adventurous, then Forestanbul is a perfect place for you offering various fun activities that you are going to love. Stretched to an area of over 65000 sqm, this adventure park in Turkey is the biggest in the entire country. Due to the size and rides offered here, Forestanbul is among the best places to visit in Turkey, with family and friends. So, unleash the inner child in you and fasten your belt to slide and ride on the rope. Enjoy the most amazing adventures like archery, cart biking and many other physical activities. This place is perfect for taking the family on a perfect getaway. Plan a weekend in the lap of nature then Forestanbul is calling you.
Location: Taşdelen, Taşdelen cad, Mesire Alanı, Çekmeköy/İstanbul, Turkey
Timing: Monday to Saturday 10AM to 7 PM
With a mixture of popular tourist spots and hidden gems, along with a few of the best places to visit in Istanbul is amongst the greatest cities in the world that excite almost all the globetrotters out there. If you are planning a vacation soon then you must consider Turkey as your next holiday spot. The best thing about the destination is that it caters to everyone who sets their feet on its land. You think of something and Turkey would never disappoint you, from Geek to shopaholic whoever you are you are going to fall in love with Istanbul.
As you frolic through the city, discover the rich history and heritage seen in some of the majestic buildings and museums. The Istanbul holiday package will take people to the best shopping places, food outlets and a few other stunning places.
FAQs
Planning a trip to Istanbul, well it can be quite tricky because the city is wide with places scattered in all directions. Here is a list of the most happening and best places to visit in Istanbul, so that you can live a holiday more Conveniently. The sprawling city has magnificent buildings, museums, shopping spots, food outlets and much more along with plenty of gorgeous places to visit in Istanbul.
- Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) Mosque
- Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Cami)
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Miniaturk
- Uzunya Beach
- Istinye Park
- Forestanbul
Hagia Sophia, officially known as the Holy Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, was built in Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 537 C. It is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul. Earlier a church, later a mosque, and now a museum at the Turkish Republic, Hagia Sophia has a hypnotic architecture known as the best of its time. It is an undeterred fact that Istanbul has been a mystical country hosting multiple civilization.
Uzunya beach is amongst the most visited places in Istanbul, known for its picturesque views. Plan a beach trip in Istanbul with family at Uzunya Beach and take a perfect escape from the daily chaos. The beach is located in Demircikoy region of Kilyos and can be accessed through public transport. You can also enjoy exciting caravans camping, trekking and other fun activities. Discover the serenity of the atmosphere and while relishing the mouthwatering cuisine.
Blue Mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 is said to be Sultan Ahmet I's architectural gift that he offered to his capital. The construction was completed in1617 right before the end of Sultan Ahmet’s 27-year-old eponymous patronage. This mosque is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Istanbul, that must be explored by everyone stepping into the city.
There are many theme parks in Istanbul that will bring out the kid in you. While you are Istanbul you can visit the following theme parks
- Forestanbul
- Miniaturk
- Jurassic Land
- Vialand
Grand Bazaar is popularly known as Kapalı Çarşı that entices all the tourists and localities. If you are someone who loves shopping then you must know that this covered market is the world’s first shopping mall.
Giving a boost to the shopping experience of people in the city, this shopping complex is one of the best places in Istanbul for a shopping spree. Stretching over to an area of 242.000 sqm, this center offers a variety of outdoor and indoor sections that cater to the daily and luxury needs of people coming over for shopping. There is a kids’ entertainment center where you can leave your kids while you purchase your essentials, besides that Istinye park has Hillside Sports and Leisure Club, and The Bazaar.
The best times to visit Istanbul are from the months of March to May and between September and November. The temperature it is quite favorable to the visitors.
