Best places to visit in Istanbul
Turkey is one of the major countries in the World and is known for its great empire. The Ottoman Empire was started in 1299 by the first ruler, Osman Gazi. Turkey is famous for its conquests and its strong empire. Around 50 million people visit Turkey each year. Moreover, Istanbul is famous for its tourist attractions. You have booked your ticket to Istanbul and you don’t know what to do in Istanbul. Here is a great list of things you can do in Istanbul.
Alright, let’s get straight to the point. Places to visit in Istanbul, on top of my list, are:
- Hagia Sophia:
Byzantine Emperor Justinian I constructed Hagia Sophia. Thereby it took almost 6 years to completely construct the Masjid. The building’s unique blend of Islamic and Byzantine architectural elements is a reflection of its cultural value and extensive history.
Theme and design:
In 1935 Hagia Sophia was converted into a Museum by the Republic of Turkey, reflecting its significance as a cultural and historical landmark. Moreover, it is famous for its massive dome. It has windows with red, green, and blue color themes. The interior of the Masjid is lit by giant hanging chandeliers. Moreover, there is a backyard in the boundary of Hagia Sophia which is beautifully decorated with plants, trees, and colorful flowers.
2. Galata Tower:
The Galata Tower is a historic stone tower in Taksim Square, Istanbul. Certainly, It is one of the oldest monuments in the World. It’s a great spot, it’s right around a colorful structure of Istanbul. Moreover, The Galata Tower’s cone-shaped roof makes it a recognizable symbol of Istanbul.
The tower has multiple floors with observation docks offering esthetic views of the city including the Bosporus Sea. Galata Tower’s stairs theme is like a rock wall, and hidden lights on the sides of the walls light the stairs. So far the Galata Tower has become an iconic symbol of Istanbul’s rich history. Additionally, you can get a bird’s eye view of the city at the top of the tower. Furthermore, the Galata Tower is surrounded by cobbled streets, and a wise selection of charming cafes, eateries, and art galleries. Certainly, The Galata Tower’s surroundings are perfect for visitors.
And If you want to stay in a hotel around Galata Tower hit the link below, you’ll find your hotel according to your choice and expense.
Grand Bazaar:
Grand Bazaar is one of the major markets in the World with over 4000 shops and 4000 sq meters (about half the area of a Manhattan city block) of area. You can find almost everything in it, from art to antiques, jewelry and traditional clothes, carpets, spices, and Turkish ornaments.
The architecture of the Grand Bazaar is a testament to Ottoman design and craftsmanship. Moreover, The Grand Bazaar isn’t just a marketplace, it represents Istanbul’s heritage and centuries-old trading legacy. Hundreds of thousands of visitors come to The Grand Bazaar daily. Above all Grand Bazaar is the biggest and the most busiest market in Istanbul.
Saving money:
In a place like the Grand Bazaar, you must be patient and cautious. Moreover, you must bargain with shopkeepers to save money to return home, and you must save something to get back home.
However, If you are a master at bargaining, you don’t have to worry; you can buy things easily. Moreover, Grand Bazaar has a huge variety of carpets and jewelry, as we know Turks are the masters of carpets. As you can see in the following image.
Indeed There are many jewelry shops in the Grand Bazaar but they are often expensive. The Grand Bazar is always on the list of street photographers. Moreover, photographers from all over the World come to the Grand Bazaar to take stunning shots.
4. Blue Mosque:
Sultan Mehmet III built this Masjid. The construction of the Masjid started in 1609 and completed in 1619. The architects of the masjid beautifully converted the Byzantine style into an Islamic structure.
Is Blue Mosque worth visiting?
Well, there might be a question arising in the minds of some people, is Blue Mosque worth it? Blue Mosque is one of the most visited places in Istanbul it’s worth you should visit it.
Theme and design:
It is famous for its blue theme and exterior paint, tiles, and dome are blue. The exterior of the masjid is mostly round. Its interior is famous for its multi-color-themed windows. Firstly, there are various decorations and works of art throughout the mosque. It is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul.
Lighting:
In addition, natural light from the windows illuminates the Masjid’s interior, and at night, the chandelier provides additional lighting. Ceramic tiles on the walls add to the interior’s exquisite appearance. The interior design and color scheme of the mosque catch your attention. Certainly, Blue Mosque is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul. Blue Mosque is comparatively more beautiful than Hagia Sophia.
5. Taksim Square:
Taksim Square is called “The Heart of Istanbul,” and features a monument at its center. At the heart of Istanbul and the central hub of Istanbul Metro. Taksim Square is the busiest place in Istanbul. It attracts the architects and photographers the most. Secondly, there are many street artists in Taksim Square which creates a completely different vibe. For instance, while wandering through the square, you’ll see different restaurants, which increases your appetite, and at Taksim Square, try hopping on a tram enjoy the ride, and gaze at the magnificent streets of Istanbul. And when you get tired of exploring, go to the local Cultural Centre and revel in the local performing arts, music, and theater sculptures of Hakkı Şinasi Pasha” and his companions.
Conclusion:
Although, Istanbul’s weather remains pleasant the whole year, and thousands of tourists come to visit Istanbul every day. Turkey is at the top of the list of most travelers. I hope you will have a great visit to Turkey and enjoy it there. Also, I forgot to mention you should also try Turkish Ice cream which is mostly available near Taksim Square. Certainly, it’s one of the best ice cream. That’s it for today. If you want to read more hit the link below and learn about Toronto, Canada.
