13 Things to Do in Istanbul Turkey
Exploring
Istanbul is more about exploring Islamic laws and rules. The beauty of the
place is really admirable, though the days are hotter than the nights you will
spend the unforgettable night view as a tourist. The places that I visited were
worth experiencing, the world-famous sites of Turkey, those mosques and museums
gave me an immense satisfaction. You will everything about this place and even
the local markets. So, here are some of the places that you should definitely
enjoy if you want to make it worthier.
1. The Blue Mosque
The
Blue Mosque is a historical mosque situated in Istanbul. The mosque is known as
the Blue Mosque because of the blue tiles which are designed in the interiors
of the mosque. It is one of the centers of attraction in Istanbul; its beauty
is astounding and is a reason for the attraction. The greenery and the blue
water around this mosque add beauty to this place. If you want to take the
pleasure of its great architecture then you should move towards its entrance
from the west side of the mosque. You should visit this place if you are
searching for good vibes.
2. Museums Of Art
The
museum of Turkish and Islamic arts briefs about the ancient tradition and
Islamic foundation. It is housed in the palace of Ibrahim Pasa. There is a collection
of more than 40,000 items on the display. There are several rooms which divide
the whole palace and each room tells a different story of the Islamic world. It
explains the Turkish life from the 8th century till 19th century; you will get
to know about the gigantic carpets which are hanging and the nomadic Turkic
tent.
3. Archaeology Museum
If
you want to know about some of the best and richest collections of classical
antiques and tradition then Archaeology museum is the correct place to visit. It
consists of the huge ancient collection which also includes Sarcophagus of
Alexander and which explains about the great and important phases of his life.
The beauty of tiled pavilion and Treaty of Kadesh which is the earliest
surviving peace treaty is just mesmerizing.
4. Chora Church & Kariye
Museum
You
must feel the peace of The Chora Church; it is the church of St. Savior which
is located in Chora/Edirnekapi. You will love to see the old walls of the
church and it is the most alluring religious site to visit in Istanbul. As you
will move through the church you will notice the ceilings and the walls which
are bloomed amazingly and those stunning carvings and marvelous patchwork. You
will get to know about Lord Christ and the Christian world. In addition, make
some time to visit Fifth-century city walls and wooden Ottoman houses.
5. Bebek And Ortakoy
Well,
they are lesser known place by the tourists but they are worth visiting. The
best thing I loved about this place is the small streets with restaurants and
small cafes. These two are the village near Bosphorus where you can see the
greenery and shore sites. Local people visit these places on weekends to enjoy
the nightlife. You can stroll in the street and can take pleasure of enjoying
the view. We were attracted by the Sunday crafts market where all the handmade
stuff was for sale.
6. Galata Tower
You
will be astounded by seeing the beauty of the place from 60 meters high tower.
The Galata tower is one of the most attractive tourist places in Istanbul. We
enjoyed the view from the terrace and spent the peaceful evening there. You can
stroll in the streets of Galata between the Towers and can have food and famous
beverages.
It
is quite amazing to see the underground beauty in Istanbul; the architecture of
the cistern is so fascinating. It was used to fetch water from Bulgaria to
Istanbul. The dimmed lights and that classical music add beauty to the place.
You will notice the fish swim in those 336 columns and the Medusa head which is
upside down.
8. Topkapi Palace
Topkapi
Palace is one of the beautiful places in Istanbul, where you will see four
courtyards and greenery. The specialty about this place is its history; it is
the place where the generations of sultans had their residence for a half
century. The Harem, the Weapons which include the swords and bows made under
the ottoman's craftsmanship are the center of attraction for this place.
9. Great Bazaar
Istanbul
carries an oldest and largest covered market in the whole world which is known
as "Bazaar". There are about 500-year-old shops in the market; while
we were walking towards it our guide told us many things about this Bazaar. We
were stunned after knowing that this bazaar covers 60 streets and it contains
near about more than 5000 shops, 60 restaurants approximately 18 fountains, 12
mosques and a school as well. The bazaar is filled with the different variety
of stuff; it is famous for its accessories like carpets, leather, jewelry and
other stuff like ceramics. You may forget the entrance of the bazar so be with
someone, who can guide you.
10. Bosphorus Cruise
If
you want to have the best view of the city then, Bosphorus Cruise is quite a
good place for it. The best thing about this place is that you will enjoy the
sunset view. There is a lot to explore from the waterway of The European and
the Asian shores. The old palaces and the mansion add beauty to this place, you
will love the sunset tour of the cruise towards the second suspension bridge
and back but the black sea is no less. Overall, these cruises are must to enjoy
your Istanbul trip.
11. The Local Market
Even
the local market of Istanbul is worth visiting, where you will see ample of
vendors and different shops who will serve you the best food. These crowded
markets are filled with special dishes and other fresh things. The town markets
are known as Pazar, where there are different stallholders and vendors. You can
explore some food if you are in these markets.
12. Hagia Sophia
As
you go through the museums there is something special about this museum. This
was a church which was later turned to the mosque and then declared to the
museum it holds a different history. It is among the great architectural
achievements. After too much of restoration works, this place is free, which
allows you to absorb its glory and magnificence.
13. Nightlife of Istanbul
The
nightlife of Istanbul holds the astounding beauty of stars and this city
altogether. The lightings and the whole city is just spell bounding. You can
enjoy the night of this area by sipping your favorite beverage on the rooftop
of a hotel or from a balcony. You can also opt for going to a concert or enjoy
the open-air rooftop restaurants. You will surely love the blackness and the
twinkling city lights.
