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Istanbul Destinations

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Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque or “Ayasofya” in Turkish, is a cultural, historical, and architectural masterpiece, that was formerly Istanbul's largest Eastern Roman Church. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a 1500-year-old rich history which easily makes it the symbol of not only Istanbul but Turkey.

  • Suggested Tour Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon
  • Entry Fee: $27 per person

Note: It's important to note that visiting Hagia Sophia may require tourists to follow certain dress codes and rules such as wearing covering clothes, as it is a religious site.

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Topkapi Palace Museum

Turkey's Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul is a spectacular historical wonder that provides an enthralling look into the lavish lives of the Ottoman sultans and their court. The historical palace itself was built in the 15th century after Istanbul was conquered. After Sultan Mehmed's passing, the palace underwent renovations and expansion and now displays a distinctive fusion of Islamic, European, and Ottoman architectural designs.

Things to Know Before Visiting

  • Suggested Tour Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit:  9 AM to 6 PM, every day except Tuesday
  • Entry Fee: $60 per person

Note: The palace is closed for visits during religious events and holidays. 

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Blue Mosque

Also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque is a historical and architectural wonder in Istanbul, Turkey. It was constructed in the early 17th century under Sultan Ahmed I and is a magnificent example of Ottoman design and architectural influence. It is known as the "Blue Mosque" because of the gorgeous blue tiles that decorate the interior of the structure and leaves a mesmerizing visual impression upon first sight. 

Things to Know Before Visiting

  • Suggested Tour Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Entry Fee: Free To Visit
  • Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM (Closed during Prayer)

Note: Visitors are required to follow the modicum of visiting a religious landmark by dressing appropriately. 

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Grand Bazaar

Located in the historic Fatih district, the Grand Bazaar has been Istanbul's most well-known bazaar and prime shopping destination since the 15th century. The bazaar is a piece of the Historical Peninsula and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. With its bustling culture and vibrant daily life, it resembles a secret city of its own, full of wonder and treasures. 

Things to Know Before Visiting

  • Suggested Tour Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer
  • Opening Hours:  8:30 AM to 7 PM, (Closed on Sundays)
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German Fountain

Also referred to as the Kaiser Wilhelm Fountain, the German Fountain is a stunning historical monument in Istanbul, Turkey. The fountain was gifted from Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany to the Ottoman Empire in 1900 to honor his trip to Istanbul in 1898. The design of the fountain is strongly influenced by German Neo-Renaissance and also holds a resemblance to traditional Ottoman fountains. 

Things to Know Before Visiting 

  • Suggested Tour Duration: 1 Hour
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer
  • Entry Fee: Free To Visit 
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Serpent Column

The Serpent Column, one of the most fascinating monuments made by the Greeks, is located in the capital of Turkey, Istanbul. It was made in the 5th century BC to commemorate Greece’s victory over the Persians in the historical battle of Plataea in 496 BC. It was originally designed with a larger monument known as the Tripod of Plataea, and with its historical and cultural value serves as a testament to the glory and might of the Greeks. The column is now situated in the historic Hippodrome Square of the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul for all travelers to marvel at its magnificence.

Things To Know Before Visiting

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Obelisk Of Theodosius

Standing imposingly in the Hippodrome Square, the Obelisk of Theodosius serves as evidence of the victories and the might of the Roman Empire. The Obelisk was originally built in Ancient Egypt dating back to 1450 BC during the reign of Thutmose III, It was brought to Constantinople by Emperor Theodosius to symbolize the Roman Empire’s conquest of Egypt. Now it stands in the square in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, inviting thousands of tourists a day to witness its majesty in person. 

Things To Note Before Visiting

 

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Fatih

A natural attraction that draws tourists and travelers towards itself, Fatih serves as the most sought-after and heavily visited municipality of Istanbul, containing much of the old city of Constantinople. Fatih District houses one of the most significant attractions of Istanbul, the Hagia Sophia. Other famous attractions, such as the Topkapi Palace (residence of the old Ottoman Sultans), the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Bazaar, are also located in it and showcase Istanbul’s history. The district borders the Golden Horn to its north and the Sea of Marmara to its south.

Things To Note Before Visiting

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Balat

Balat is a word derived from the Greek word Palation. It’s a historic neighborhood in the Fatih District of Istanbul. Because of its colorful and bright homes, and being littered with all kinds of cafes, restaurants, and hotels, it serves as a natural attraction and a hotbed for tourists visiting the city. Balat stands out as a unique and beautiful neighborhood to visit because of its proximity to the Golden Horn as well as having a diverse and interesting culture that makes it a must-visit on anyone’s bucket list.

Things To Note Before Visiting

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Taksim Square

Located in the European part of Istanbul, Taksim Square offers a true travel experience brimming with the local Istanbul culture. You can find the Republic Monument here, a monument of the Turkish War of Independence when it became a republic. Taksim Square is also known for its assortment of different kinds of restaurants, hotels, and shops, which makes it a necessary stop for any tourists visiting Istanbul.

Things To Note Before Visiting