Whether you’re looking for a traditional Turkish vacation, or you’re interested in learning about Istanbul’s rich history, there are several places to visit in Istanbul. One of the most popular places to visit in Istanbul is the ancient district of Sultanahmet. The district’s Hippodrome was a chariot race track for centuries. Today, the obelisks that once surrounded the Hippodrome still stand.
Basilica Cistern
Located near the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern is a must-see on any Istanbul tour. It is an underground tourist attraction, and offers a subterranean view of Istanbul’s history. You’ll find yourself a few hundred feet below the city. You can also see a dripping water feature in the middle of the cistern, and hundreds of carved marble columns.
Basilica Cistern is an impressive feat of engineering. Its walls are four and a half meters thick, and the masonry is reinforced with a thick layer of Horasan mortar. Its columns are made from marble, and are arranged in twelve rows. They are primarily Ionic or Corinthian styles.
Grand Bazaar
Located in the Fatih district of Istanbul, Grand Bazaar is one of the most famous attractions in Istanbul. It is considered to be one of the oldest covered shopping markets in the world. Originally founded in the year 1461, Grand Bazaar is now an irreplaceable part of Istanbul.
The Grand Bazaar is known for its unique architecture. Its buildings and alleys are designed to look like labyrinths. It has more than four thousand shops. Each shop has a unique design and product.
In the Grand Bazaar, you can find ceramics in various styles and colors. The ceramics are inspired by the Blue Mosque and are available in traditional and contemporary designs. You can also find vases, hanging ornaments, and pots.
Dolmabahce Palace
Located in Istanbul, Turkey, Dolmabahce Palace is one of the most famous and important historical monuments in Istanbul. The building was built between 1843 and 1856. It was commissioned by the 31st Sultan Abdulmecid I, who wanted to live in a palace that was equal to the European residences.
Dolmabahce Palace is divided into four parts. The first part is the main building of the palace. It is a neoclassical structure. It was modeled by Garabet Balyan. The second part is the Selamlik. It is also called the garden of sultans. It is located at the front of the Dolmabahce Palace.
The garden complex is a complex of various buildings including a clock tower, central palace, and several barracks and other constructions. The gardens offer stunning views of the Bosphorus.
Harem
Among the many places to visit in Istanbul, the Topkapi Palace Harem is a must-see for tourists. It is located on Seraglio Point, overlooking the Marmarmara Sea. It is one of Istanbul’s most beautiful palaces.
The Imperial Harem in Istanbul is an example of Ottoman architecture. The rooms reflect the lavish lifestyle of the sultans. The women of the harem exerted extraordinary political influence.
The Harem is divided into four courtyards. The First Courtyard is dominated by the apartments of the Valide Sultan, one of the largest sections of the Harem. The apartments are decorated with murals from the 19th century. The apartments are divided into 40 separate rooms.
Kadikoy Fish Market
Located in Istanbul, Kadikoy is a vibrant district that offers visitors a wide variety of sights and activities. In addition to its vibrant nightlife, Kadikoy is home to many historical sites and art and culture activities.
One of the best places to visit in Istanbul is the Kadikoy Fish Market. In this market, you will find all kinds of food, beverages, and groceries. The market sells fresh fish from the Marmara Sea, as well as charcuteries, bakeries, cafes, and restaurants. You can also find antiques, herbs, and a variety of other goods.
If you’re interested in trying some of the best Turkish dishes, you should head to the Kadikoy Fish Market. You can enjoy traditional balik ekmek, a fish sandwich, or you can try Pastirma, which is cured beef. You can also buy fresh cheese and Turkish candies.
Blue Mosque
Located in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. This impressive structure was constructed in the early 17th century. It is built on a hill overlooking the Bosphorus.
The Blue Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. The building is adorned with more than 20,000 handmade ceramic Iznik tiles. It also boasts a magnificent maine dome.
The Blue Mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was constructed to rival the Hagia Sophia. The maine dome is 72 meters high.
The Blue Mosque has a tomb containing the remains of Sultan Ahmed I. It is a must see for anyone interested in Turkish history.
