Istanbul, Turkey is one of those cities that easily overwhelms first-time visitors. The city is loud, crowded, energetic, and moves at a dizzying, nonstop pace. Thanks to thousands and thousands of years of rich history, Istanbul offers travelers a look into one of the world’s most dynamic urban spaces, one that has seen Roman, Ottoman, and now secular rule. Churches and mosques peacefully coexist in a city where Europe meets the Middle East, and I’ve compiled a list of eight incredible experiences designed to introduce visitors to Istanbul’s thriving present and tangible past.
1. Marvel at Istanbul’s royal past during a visit to Topkapi Palace and the Harem
Even though Topkapi Palace predates France’s Versailles Palace, visitors can’t help but draw comparisons between the two luxurious, over-the-top opulent royal abodes. There is no doubt that Topkapi Palace is one of Eurasia’s great palaces, and no visit to Istanbul is complete without a step inside the fabled Harem, where the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire kept his enslaved girls and women. Nearly every inch of the palace, which on the outside appears austere and cold, is covered in brightly colored tiles bearing gorgeous patterns inspired by nature, making the interior a work of art in of itself. Learn more about my experiences at Topkapi Palace here.
2. Enjoy fresh air at the scenic Rumeli Fortress
Need a break from downtown? Hop in a cab and, within minutes, travelers will find themselves at the stunning Rumeli Fortress, constructed in the fifteenth century by Mehmet II in order to successfully conquer the strategic city of Constantinople. While the rich history of this well-preserved fortress is reason enough to visit, the views of the Bosphorus are equally as incredible.
3. Shop for souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar
Chances are, you’ll find anything your heart desires at the Grand Bazaar, an indoor labyrinth of shops and stalls that sell everything from cashmere scarves to knockoff designer purses to hand-painted dishware. Gentle bartering is expected, and be sure to bring Turkish lira, as the merchants do not accept credit or debit cards. Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, the bazaar is a great place to watch day-to-day life in Istanbul, as many locals head to the Bazaar to pick up their own spices and soaps.
4. Understand Istanbul’s varied religious history at the Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia (also spelled Aya Sophia) started as a Christian church before being converted into a mosque, a transition that left the structures’ many detailed mosaics covered by plaster. Centuries later, the famous mosaics were uncovered and the mosque turned into the popular museum visitors can now tour today. With an alter pointed towards Mecca in Saudi Arabia and mosaics featuring Jesus and Mary, travelers can enjoy a vivid insight into Istanbul’s diverse religious history. After all, the city has the reputation as the bridge between the East and West for a reason.
5. Enjoy well-preserved art and religious history at Chora Church
In my opinion, art buffs will find Istanbul’s most impressive collection of mosaics and murals at the Chora Church, an underrated museum easily accessed via public transit. While Chora Church lacks the complex history and architectural grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, this artistic gem is not to be overlooked. The intricate mosaics span entire domes; brilliantly colored tiles grace nearly every inch of the church’s ceiling. A visit is certainly worth the craned neck.
6. Climb Galata Tower for the best view of Istanbul’s impressive cityscape
To say Istanbul is immense is a gross understatement; when walking its winding, ancient streets, visitors feel as though the city is endless. Climbing to the top of Galata Tower helps give travelers a perspective of the immense cityscape; from up high, it’s easy to see why Istanbul has been called the city of a thousand minarets. The viewing platform for the tower can get crowded, so I recommend arriving in the morning with paper liras, as credit and debit are not accepted. The stunning vistas, however, make a wait in line completely worthwhile. Read more here.
7. Connect with our shared human history at the Istanbul Archaeology Museum
Istanbul’s world-renowned archaeology museum features artifacts from all over the world, not just present-day Turkey, making each exhibit a story of humanity’s collective past. By far the collections’ most impressive displays are those of ancient Egypt (featuring an awe-inspiring, intact sarcophagus) and Babylon, where visitors can stand face to face with pieces of the fabled Ishtar Gate.
8. Keep cool and head underground to the massive Basilica Cistern
Hundreds of ancient cisterns (or water sources) lie beneath the hectic streets of Istanbul. However, Basilica Cistern, built in the sixth century, is the city’s largest and most popular. Two Medusa heads, one sideways and the other upside down, are the cistern’s defining features, but visitors will enjoy strolling through the aisles of dimly lit, ornate columns surrounded by trickling water. Keep an eye out for fishes swimming below. Read more about my journey into Istanbul’s underground here.
Trying to decide where to stay in Istanbul, Turkey? Need some help figuring out public transit? Check out my Istanbul Travel Guide here.
