Istanbul is a city that carries its culture and history well. As a result, there are a lot of things to do in Istanbul. You can absorb that to its fullest because you can book Turkish Airlines flights anytime you want. Istanbul is an exciting city that has a lot to offer for travelers from all over the world.
Founded during the Neolithic Age, Istanbul is today a modern city that remains true to its historical heritage with mosques, basilicas cathedrals, and ancient bazaars.
Istanbul Turkey’s largest city, is situated between the east and west. It offers an aura of intrigue and charm that will appeal to all visitors. We have come up with a list of the places that explain the beauty of Istanbul.
Besides the things to do in Istanbul, The Turkish Riviera is another destination you should visit.
The Things To Do In Istanbul With Turkish Airlines Flights:
1. Hagia Sophia:
This magnificent church has been recently converted into a mosque and is one of the most exquisite architectural achievements in the world. After years of restoration work, Hagia Sophia is finally free of scaffolding, so you can absorb its splendor as it should.
To stand in the center of the stunning spacious aisle beneath a dome 43 meters wide and 65 meters above your head goes against belief and physics. Climb the spiral ramp to reach the gallery and gaze at the stunning Byzantine mosaics, including Christ surrounded by Emperor Constantine IX and his wife, Empress Zoe.
2. Bosphorus Cruise:
Your trip to Istanbul is incomplete if you don’t visit the Bosphorus cruise. It should be on your top list of things to do in Istanbul because it not only provides a nice view of the city, but both the European and Asian shores of the famous waterway also have a lot to offer.
It is full of hundred-year-old palaces and mansions. Several cruises can be made and a sunset excursion in the summer. You are recommended to go on the Bosphorus full-day tour or the shorter version if you don’t have time.
Pro Tip: We recommend you plan your trip a little ahead of your traveling time to get cheap online flight booking.
3. Galata Tower:
If you want to view the natural beauty of Istanbul city, Galata Tower is the best place. It is located north of the Golden Horn in the Galata district. We stayed in an apartment overlooking this tower, and it was breathtaking. It is about nine floors high with a café and restaurant. You can take tours to the top to see the city.
There is an exquisite square at the base of the Galata Tower, where you can enjoy Turkish coffee and Turkish delicacies while watching people on the terrace. Glatata Tower proudly makes up the list of the top things to do in Istanbul.
4. Archaeology Museum:
People often skip the Archaeological Museum, which is a pity. It is a true hidden gem of Istanbul, displaying one of the world’s richest collections of classic antiques.
The Archaeology museum includes the magnificent sarcophagus of Alexander the Great, showing crucial phases of his life, the blue-tiled Karaman Mihrab, the beautiful Tiled Pavilion, and the Treaty of Kadesh – the world’s earliest peace treaty. No options for kids? Wait until they see the Trojan horse model in the kids’ section.
You can reach the Archaeological Museum by taking a left turn down the hill in the first courtyard of Topkapi Palace or through Gülhane Park.
5. Belgrad Forest:
It is a mixed deciduous forest that is situated in the vicinity of Istanbul. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty preserved in this forest.
Tourists can come to the forest from Enterprise offices and enjoy activities such as trekking and hiking on numerous trails, nature walks, and even picnics or barbecues at some designated spots. They are even locals’ favorite pastime on weekends and are one of the more beautiful places near Istanbul. You should add to your list of the top places to visit in Istanbul. It is worth the visit.
6- Edirne (Turkey):
This city, which is in the East Thrace region and was the capital of the Ottoman Empire before the conquest of Istanbul, is one of the neighboring cities of Istanbul. It is rich in culture and history. Travelers visit to see amazing architecture, many icons, mosques, cathedrals, and palaces. Visiting Edirne is an exquisite experience and an opportunity to learn about its history and culture.
It is one of the most beautiful cities in and around Istanbul. You should add it to your list of the top things to do in Istanbul because of the Selimiye Mosque and many other attractions.
7- Dolmabahce Palace:
Dolmabahçe Palace is simply fascinating. The palace is vast – 600 meters long – with no less than 285 rooms and 43 lounges. It was built in 1856 by Sultan Abdüi Mecit to prove that the declining Ottoman Empire was doing well.
Nevertheless, no expense, as evidenced by the excessive use of gold leaf, crystal, and marble. Key elements are the Baccarat crystal staircase, the main bathroom, and the ceremonial hall with a 4.5-ton chandelier. Just seeing the latter is impressive.
Conclusion:
Now, you know how to have an equally exquisite vacation in Istanbul. The list of the top things to do in Istanbul has got you covered. We’ve tried to give you the best information, but this beautiful city offers even more. So, don’t think much and plan your trip to Turkey. Make room for other things to do in Istanbul. You can book Turkish Airlines flights now for an exquisite vacation.
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