Are you visiting Istanbul for the first time? This bustling city has a lot to offer, with a rich heritage of history and culture, but also a hint of modernity. For travelers, it can be a difficult task to choose exactly where to go and what to visit.
Today, Nomadicabroad, will share the 10 best things to do in the City of Desire in the World, including the main tourist attractions, as well as some lesser-known secrets off the beaten track!
10 Best Things to Do in Istanbul
1. Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque
2. Discover the city’s nightlife
3. Relax your body and mind
4. Grand Bazaar
5. Topkapi Palace
6. Try local cuisine
7. Visit nearby islands and cities
8. Hippodrome of Constantinople
9. Explore the city’s museums
10. Bosphorus Strait Cruise
10 Best Things to Do in Istanbul
1. Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque
Certainly, the tourist attraction that cannot be missed on any travel itinerary in Istanbul is the Blue Mosque, officially called the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Built in 1617, its architecture and interior design made it one of the most iconic Ottoman buildings. And, regarding its interior, the blue tiles that decorate it gave rise to its nickname, Blue Mosque.
Hagia Sophia is another historical heritage that is absolutely unmissable. Initially built as an Orthodox basilica between 532 and 537 AD, Hagia Sophia was later repurposed as a Catholic cathedral and then transformed into a mosque in 1453. This monumental construction impresses its visitors both by its exterior, its overlapping domes, and by its its interior, due to the mosaics and luxurious decorations. With admission to the Hagia Sophia History Museum , located just 200 meters from the mosque itself, you’ll get a more in-depth look at this iconic structure.
On the other hand, if you are interested in delving into centuries of history, art and cultural exchange, we recommend booking this Istanbul mosques tour . In addition to visiting the two main ones, you will visit the Suleymaniye Mosque , the largest mosque in the city for over 450 years.
2. Discover the city’s nightlife
For those wondering what to do in Istanbul at night, the Turkish city offers a wide range of nightlife experiences. The areas of Taksim, Kadikoy and Beşiktaş are the most popular, each famous for its bars, nightclubs and other entertainment options. Furthermore, you will be able to walk the streets at ease, as it is safe to walk around Istanbul at night as there are many police officers circulating.
For partygoers, the best way to enjoy Istanbul’s nightlife is with this Pub Crawl , which will take you to Taksim Square and includes VIP access to the city’s three best nightclubs!
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