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Istanbul, Turkey - Things to See and Do

What to see and do in Istanbul, Turkey

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Istanbul is a vibrant and bustling city located in Turkey, straddling both Europe and Asia

It is one of the largest and most populous cities in the world, with a population of over 15 million people. Istanbul has a rich and diverse history, with a mix of cultures and traditions that are reflected in its architecture, food, and art.

We visited Istanbul on the 7th and 8th of October, 2022. While there, we went to the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

Istanbul was founded as Byzantium in the 7th century BC by Greek settlers from Megara. In 330 AD, the Roman emperor Constantine the Great made it his imperial capital, renaming it Constantinople. In 1930, the city's name was officially changed to Istanbul.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul is the Hagia Sophia, a former Orthodox basilica turned mosque turned museum. This architectural marvel is a symbol of the city's diverse cultural and religious heritage, and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Istanbul.

Another popular destination is the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, which is an impressive example of Ottoman-era architecture. The mosque is known for its intricate tile work, six minarets, and stunning interior.

The Grand Bazaar is a popular shopping destination in Istanbul, featuring over 4,000 shops selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and pottery. It is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, and is a great place to experience the energy and vibrancy of the city.

The Bosphorus Strait, which divides Europe and Asia, is a must-see attraction in Istanbul. Visitors can take a boat tour of the strait to enjoy the stunning views of the city and its famous bridges.

Istanbul is also known for its delicious cuisine, which features a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Some popular dishes include kebabs, mezze, and baklava.

Overall, Istanbul is a city with a rich history and a unique blend of cultures, making it a fascinating and unforgettable destination for travelers.

Looking for a place to stay? Click here for options.

Looking for things to do? Viator offers numerous tours in Istanbul. Click here for details.

Pictures from Istanbul

The 15th of July Martyrs Bridge was built in 1973 connects Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. 
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is an Ottoman-era historical imperial mosque.  It was constructed in 1616 during the rule of Ahmed I. The mosque is currently undergoing restoration and it is difficult to see much inside due to construction.
The Hagia Sophia features a soaring 6th-century dome and rare Christian mosaics. Originally a church, later a mosque, the 6th-century Hagia Sophia was built by the emperor Justinian the Great. It was the largest cathedral in the world for nearly a thousand years.
In 1267 a Genoese colony was established in the Galata part of Constantinople. It was surrounded by walls and the Galata Tower was first built at their highest point as the Christea Turris (Tower of Christ).
In the Sultanahmet district, the open-air, Roman-era Hippodrome was for centuries the site of chariot races. It contains several Egyptian obelisks. 
Obelisk of Thutmose III (Obelisk of Theodosius), built of red granite, is 100 ft high.  It came from the Temple of Karnak in Luxor, where it was originally erected there by Pharaoh Thutmose III in 1425 BC.
The Galata Bridge crosses the Golden Horn to the old city. It is crowded with fishermen, street vendors and with cafes under the bridge.
Visiting the shops in the newer part of the city.
Street vendor serving fresh squeezed orange juice and pomegranate juice.