Visiting Istanbul is a memorable experience. In reality, the fact that the historic capital of Turkey is situated in both Asia and Europe at the same time is a feature unique to it. Due to this feature’s uniqueness, it is sometimes referred to as the “meeting place” between East and West.
Packed with a glorious past, heart-warming cuisine, historical buildings, architecture, art, culture, food, and people. If you are planning to visit anytime soon. Without any doubt, start planning, make qatar airways bookings in any class and save up to 60% off on round trips on every flight. To make it easy for you, the following is a list of must-do activities that will ensure you make the most of your time in Istanbul to help you organize your vacation.
Referred to as the Hagia Sophia
This place became famous throughout the world due to its turbulent and eventful past. It was built as a church in the sixth century, but after the Ottomans took control of the city in the 15th century, it was turned into a mosque.
A cruise ship excursion along the Bosphorus
A tour to Istanbul that does not involve a Bosphorus cruise is missing something essential. In addition to Maiden’s Tower, both the European and Asian sides of the famed waterway have a wealth of historic palaces and mansions to offer. Not only does this offer a magnificent perspective of the city, but it also enables you to see both sides of the famed channel.
Topkapı Palace
When you visit Istanbul, it will be nearly impossible to avoid viewing some of the city’s numerous palaces. Every single one of them is undoubtedly deserving of the diversion, but one must be avoided at all costs: Topkapi Palace.
Galata Tower
And if you’re looking for things to do in Istanbul, why not try ascending? In any case, this is the service that the Galata Tower provides! From its rooftop, you will be able to take in beautiful views of the city. Please rotate it a full 360 degrees!
The splendid Grand Bazaar
Without a visit to the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, a journey to Turkey’s first metropolis would be insufficient. In addition to being a prominent municipal icon, this covered market is the largest of its kind anywhere in the world.
The Blue Mosque
The Sultanahmet Camii Mosque is not as well-known as the city’s other two must-sees. However, the blue mosaics (the basis for the city’s name) are what attract travelers from all over the world. Let’s not overlook the building’s impressive entrance, which is dominated by a towering façade.
Consequently, a trip to the Blue Mosque is something that should be strongly considered. However, you are not the only individual interested in entering it. We encourage you to arrive as early in the morning as possible for this reason.
The Basilica’s Cistern
Not only is Istanbul’s surface fascinating, but the city’s underground structure is also rather fascinating. The Basilica Cistern is a beautiful example of the Byzantines’ inventiveness. This spectacular underground cistern was constructed for the purpose of storing potable water transported by aqueducts. Occasionally, water was transported all the way from what is now Bulgaria.
Balat
This is the location to visit if you like a more authentic Istanbul experience. Balat is a lovely neighborhood distinguished by the colourful facades of its buildings, which are inspired by the Mediterranean. Balat is also and most importantly the city’s old Jewish neighborhood, which is today occupied by members of a number of various ethnic groups, such as Armenians and Greeks.
The food and marketplaces of Istanbul
Turkish cuisine is one of the most diversified cuisines in the world since its flavors are a mix of those from many different continents and cultures. Each of these dishes is prepared with fresh ingredients, some of which you may obtain yourself. To accomplish this, head toward the city’s marketplaces (called Pazar).
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How to reach Istanbul?
By Air
Both Istanbul New Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport are located close to Istanbul (Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen, IATA code-SAW). In addition to domestic flights, both airports routinely receive international flights to Istanbul from Russia and other countries.
By Train
Unquestionably, the Metro is the quickest way to go around Istanbul; nonetheless, many people are anxious about how to use it, despite the fact that it’s quite straightforward. After putting it to use, you’ll likely wonder why you were concerned in the first place!
By road
There are two types of buses in Istanbul: regular metro buses and fast metro buses. Additionally, if you choose, you can take this bus from the European side to the Asian side. However, you won’t find metro buses in the city center; you’ll find them more in the suburbs or on the city’s outskirts, in places such as Yenibosna or Zeytinburnu.
Conclusion
Due to its ideal location, the city has been the subject of desire. Consequently, numerous diverse peoples have ruled over what is today known as Istanbul but was previously known as Byzantium and Constantinople. So what do you thinking about? Plan your getaway with AirlinesMap and enjoy the best trip ever to Istanbul..!!
