Travel Guide
Istanbul Travel Guide
Hagia Sophia Mosque
Hagia Sophia Mosque is an important architectural heritage located in Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula and was built in the 6th century AD. The structure has served as a church, mosque, and museum throughout its historical process; it contains the historical and structural traces of both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. Since 2020, it has been functioning in the status of a mosque.
Sultanahmet Mosque
Sultanahmet Mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 under the patronage of Sultan Ahmed I and is an important example of Ottoman classical architecture. Designed by Sedefkâr Mehmet Ağa, the structure is notable for its central dome arrangement and six minarets. The interior is adorned with approximately 20,000 İznik tiles, and the mosque is known as the “Blue Mosque” due to its blue tones, holding a symbolic place in Istanbul’s historical skyline.
The Maiden's Tower
The Maiden’s Tower is a historic structure located at the entrance of the Bosphorus, off the coast of Üsküdar in Istanbul. Due to its strategic location, it was used for both maritime security and communication purposes. It continued to serve in the Ottoman period as well, functioning in different roles such as fire observation, a lighthouse, and a quarantine station. Today, the tower, which has cultural heritage value, is used as a tourist attraction and an event venue.
Galata Tower
Galata Tower is a historic tower located in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district, built by the Genoese in the 14th century. The structure was used for surveillance, fire monitoring, and defense purposes during the Ottoman period. Over time, it underwent restorations and today serves as a museum and observation deck. It is one of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.
Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace is a palace complex located on Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula, built in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror. It served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire for a long period. The palace, which functioned as the sultan’s residence and the center of state affairs, includes sections such as the Harem, the treasury, and sacred relics. Today, it is open to visitors as a museum.
Dolmabahçe Palace
Dolmabahçe Palace is a magnificent residence renowned for its exceptional location overlooking the Bosphorus. Commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid in the 19th century, the palace became the sultan’s official residence and the administrative center following Topkapı Palace. Today, it is preserved as a museum and is open to the public.
The Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is an important underground structure from Istanbul’s Byzantine period. Built in the 6th century during the reign of Justinian I to meet the city’s water needs, the cistern spans a vast area supported by 336 stone columns. Today, the structure is open to tourists and stands out for its historical and architectural significance.
Balat Iron Church
Balat Iron Church is a church made of iron located in Istanbul’s historic Balat district, built in the 19th century. The structure was constructed for the Bulgarian Orthodox community during the Ottoman period, using prefabricated iron parts brought from Europe. Today, it is preserved as a cultural heritage site.
St. Anthony Church
St. Anthony Church is a historic church located in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district. Built in the 19th century in the Neo-Gothic style by Italian architect Giulio Mongeri, the structure stands out with its elegant stained glass windows, high ceilings, and impressive interior space. The church is open for both worship and visitation, and it is one of the notable stops to see, especially during a walk along İstiklal Avenue.
The Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is a rich shopping center located on Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula, extending from the medieval period to the present day. Famous for its thousands of shops, this historic bazaar offers a wide range of products, from jewelry to handmade carpets.