Only 15 min. away
The Galata Bridge (Galata Köprüsü) is a 490 metre long drawbridge found in the Golden Horn estuary, which unites the old Istanbul with its more modern area.
2 min.
Istiklal Avenue is a popular street located between Tünel Square and Taksim Square in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul. The street, which has held the title of being the most popular street in Türkiye from the late 19th century to the present day, is 1.4 km long.
15 min.
Galata Tower, or Galata Tower Museum as it was called after it started being used as a museum, is a tower located in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul. It takes its name from the Galata district where it is located. Built as a watchtower within the Galata Walls, the tower has been used for different purposes in different periods and has been serving as an exhibition space and museum since 2020. It is one of the symbolic structures of both Beyoğlu and Istanbul.
10 min.
Istanbul’s most famous street, Istiklal Street, is a vibrant spot that pulses day and night, offering magnificent architectural sights, shops, and beauty, and brimming with people. At the north-east end of the street, the vast Taksim Square, which many refer to as the heart of the city, is home to many of Turkey’s most famous restaurants, while nearby is one of Europe’s most vibrant nightlife venues.
30 min.
The Grand Bazaar, or Kapalıçarşı, is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, a vibrant hub of commerce and culture located in the heart of Istanbul. Established in the 15th century, shortly after the conquest of Constantinople, the bazaar has evolved into a sprawling maze of over 4,000 shops, offering everything from traditional textiles and jewelry to spices, ceramics, and handcrafted goods. As you wander through its labyrinthine alleys, you'll be captivated by the rich colors, enticing aromas, and the lively atmosphere filled with the sounds of merchants calling out to customers.
30 min.
Topkapi Palace, perched on a prominent hill overlooking the Bosphorus, is a stunning symbol of the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Constructed in the 15th century under Sultan Mehmed II, the palace served as the imperial residence and administrative center for over 400 years, housing sultans, their families, and a vast court.
35 min.
Originally constructed as a cathedral in 537 AD under Emperor Justinian I, it was the largest cathedral in the world for nearly a thousand years. Its innovative design features a massive dome that appears to float above the central nave, supported by a series of semi-domes and arches, showcasing the ingenuity of Byzantine engineering.
30 min.
Designed as an imperial show of strength to complement the imposing Hagia Sophia Mosque, which faces it across Sultanahmet Square, it is a symbol of architectural brilliance. Unlike the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is supported by four "elephant foot" pillars, and its central dome (23.5m in diameter and 43m high) is flanked by four semi-domes, giving it a nearly square shape. It is dubbed the Blue Mosque because of over 20,000 handmade ceramic Iznik tiles that decorate the interior, featuring intricate designs of tulips, roses, carnations, and lilies, all beautifully lit by 260 windows.
20 min.
Süleymaniye Camii, or the Süleymaniye Mosque, is one of Istanbul's most iconic architectural masterpieces, representing the zenith of Ottoman mosque design. Commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century and designed by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan, the mosque is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the empire's power and cultural richness.
30 min.
The Basilica Cistern, or Yerebatan Sarnıcı, is an extraordinary feat of engineering and a hidden gem beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul. Built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, this ancient underground reservoir was designed to supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople, showcasing the ingenuity of Byzantine architecture. As you descend into the cool, dimly lit chamber, you'll be greeted by a stunning expanse of over 336 columns, many adorned with intricate carvings and beautiful capitals.
30 min.
Located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey, Gülhane Park is a lush green oasis—a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. This large public park offers something for everyone, from picnics and concerts to beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Marmara Sea. Let’s explore why this urban park should be on your list of must-see destinations when visiting Istanbul. Gülhane Park has been around since 1806, but it wasn’t opened to the public until 1912. The park was once part of Topkapi Palace grounds; however, it has since been transformed into a sprawling park that spreads across more than 200 acres (80 hectares). Gülhane Park is located within walking distance of many of Istanbul’s major attractions, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia Museum and Sultanahmet Square. It is easily accessible by public transportation or car.