Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city, and undoubtedly one of the most mesmerising destinations in the world. Its rich history dates back to by-gone dynasties of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and its culture is an eclectic product of European, Asian, and Middle Eastern influences. Unsurprisingly, people from around the world come to Istanbul to unravel the colourful tales contained in the city’s ancient architecture and traditions.
From opulent opera houses to bustling bazaars and beautiful green sanctuaries hidden in the heart of the city; we look at the attractions in Istanbul that everyone must visit.
Hagia Sofia
This magnificent monument is one of Istanbul’s most cherished landmarks.
It has undergone a series of transformations since it was first constructed as an Orthodox Christian cathedral in the 6th century under the reign of Byzantine Emperor, Justinian I.
The Hagia Sofia took the title of the world’s largest cathedral for an incredible one-thousand years, until it was repurposed as a mosque following the Turkish conquest of Constantinople in 1453. A museum from 1935 to 2022, the building was recently reclassified as a mosque and opened to Muslim worship.
Its soaring 100-foot dome shapes Istanbul’s skyline and is easily spotted in most portraits of the city. Frequenters of Istanbul will be familiar with the Muslim call to prayer which now once again resounds from the mosque’s minarets. Step inside to find images of saints enshrined in expansive gold mosaics, and walk amongst low-hanging chandeliers which add to the building’s awe-inspiring ambience. Visitors are quick to see why the Hagia Sofia is one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul.
Today, the landmark is a component of the UNESCO World Heritage site and falls under the Sultanahmet Archaeological Park alongside other historic treasures, such as Topkapi Palace.
Topkapi Palace
Built by Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century, Topkapi Palace was the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman Sultans. It remained so for more than four centuries, before the Sultans’ primary residence became newly built palaces of a more European style, situated on the shores of the Bosporus.
This magnificent feat of architecture has long been a symbol of royal opulence. Marvel at the palace’s historic weaponry, jewel-filled treasury, and religious artefacts, which tell tales of the reigns of famous sultans, as well as the ambitious courtiers that dominated the courts, and the concubines of extraordinary beauty who spent their lives in the palace’s Harem.
Not far from Topkapi is one of the city’s largest and most beautiful parks. Enclosed in the very heart of Istanbul, Gülhane Park is a breath of fresh air in the centre of a dense, bustling metropolis. It is best known for the mass of tulips that blooms there, transforming this gorgeous green space into a canvas of colours.
Karaköy Lokantası
This elegant local restaurant serves traditional dishes that will transport you to the Ottoman era. Distinct blue tiles and white tablecloths characterise the interior, and guests can gaze out of ceiling-to-floor windows onto the beautiful Bosporus strait that separates Europe from Asia.
Famous on the Istanbul food scene, this high-end eatery is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike and is an especially popular lunch spot for Turkish businesspeople.
The heavenly Hünkar beğendi (Sultan’s delight) is a favourite on the menu. And don’t forget to complete the experience with some classic Turkish wines.
The famous Bazaars of Istanbul
Get lost in the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s most long-standing covered marketplaces. The market’s maze-like passageways are lined with over four thousand shops and stalls, selling everything from Turkish delicacies to exquisite ceramics and hand-crafted oriental fabrics. Colourful glass lanterns cast a dim light on the Bazaar’s hidden treasures. Perfect your technique, and you’re bound to come back with some excellent bargains.
Nearby is the smaller Spice Bazaar, situated next to the New Mosque in Eminönü. One of the most colourful bazaars in Istanbul, this vibrant covered market is perfused with the fragrant and sweet-smelling aromas of Turkey. Browse heaped mounds of authentic spices, tea, sweets and dried fruits—which might inspire you to cook up a local Turkish dish of your own.
Süreyya Opera House
A centre of culture and entertainment, the Süreyya Opera House is the place to experience the outstanding opera and ballet performances of Istanbul.
Constructed in 1927, the building is an outstanding work of architecture, inspired by the Champs-Elysées Theatre in Paris. Its plush red velvet seating, exclusive viewing boxes and painted ceilings exude comfort and 20th-century grandeur. The hall can sit just shy of 600 people and performances are incredibly popular, so remember to secure your tickets for this exclusive venue in plenty of time.
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