Exploring Istanbul: From Hagia Sophia to the Grand Bazaar

Once the abode of Ottoman Sultans, Topkapi Palace is now one of the most prominent attractions to explore in Istanbul. If you love the idea of marveling at historical architecture, then come here on a half-day tour. Its manicured courtyards, art and fabric collections, porcelain, cutlery, and extensive weaponry will spellbind you in no time.

Topkapi Palace is a huge complex consisting of many courtyards, chambers, and rooms offering you a chance to learn about the extravagant lives that Ottoman rulers lived. Besides that, there are various exhibits comprising the kitchens, the armaments room, and the calligraphy area. What’s more? This sprawling mosque also lets you drool over the picturesque views of the Golden Horn as you stroll through its lush gardens.

 

With a rich history spanning over 1,500 years, Hagia Sophia is known for its historical significance, glorious architecture, and interior views, making thousands of history buffs flock to this masterpiece every year. Once considered the world’s largest cathedral, the Hagia Sophia has been a spectacular example of Byzantine architecture ever. Stop by this dazzling feat of engineering and marvel at its grandeur. The abstract genius with which it has been designed makes it one of the best places to explore on Istanbul, Turkey tours.

Whether you come to the Hagia Sophia Mosque solo or with family, there are a few things you must keep in consideration. Do not forget to remove your shoes before you enter the religious premises. And, try to dress modestly while keeping your shoulders and knees covered. If you are a woman, then do cover your head before you visit the mosque.

 

Decked with plenty of minarets, domes, and semi-domes, the Blue Mosque is truly a sight to behold. And, if you love digging into the history of this attraction cherishing its grandeur, then this mosque beckons you like no other place. Nestled just opposite the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque was built by Sultan Ahmed to compete with the majesty of the former one. And, that’s why it has also been named the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. 

With around 200 stained glass windows and more than 20,000 Iznik tiles, its interior displays numerous patterns and works, making it a stunning piece to marvel at. As it is also a place of worship, you can visit this place and pay your homage. If you are a non-Muslim, you may enter the premises via a side door after removing your shoes there. Also, if you are a woman, then do cover your hair and wear decent clothes. 

 

Want to explore one of the biggest shopping markets in the world? Then, the extensive lanes of the Grand Bazaar are beckoning you. As you stroll through its labyrinth streets and alleys housing around 4,000 shop vendors, you will find a range of items like antiques, handloom carpets, ceramics, artisan jewelry, and traditional textiles for you to choose from. Just hop on a shopping spree while exploring this sprawling area, and voila, you are all set to take a bouquet of souvenirs back home. 

The best part about the Grand Bazaar is that you will not find the vendors here pushy, which makes the whole experience relaxing. However, you are advised to bargain a lot, for vendors can drop their quoted rate to as low as 50%. If you are a budget traveler exploring this city with your list of cheap things to do in Istanbul, then Grand Bazaar is a must-visit. Home to an array of antique wares, this bazaar lets you buy both high-quality and affordable gold and leather items from dedicated areas, thus making your souvenir collection worth admiring.

 

Snuggled along the Bosphorus, Dolmabahce Palace beguiles you with its jaw-dropping beauty and historical significance. Built in 1856, the imperial structure of the palace imbibed the Baroque, and Neoclassical styles. Comprising around 285 rooms and 44 halls, the lavish interiors of this masterpiece are adorned with around 6 tonnes of silver and more than 14 tonnes of gold, making it a must-visit place for every traveler. And, if you are an architecture aficionado, then there’s no way you could miss out on its grandiosity while enjoying an Istanbul, Turkey tour.

As you wander through the premises, you will come across the world’s largest chandelier hanging in the Ceremonial Hall. What's more? Dolmabahce Palace also houses a great collection of oil paintings by Turkish and European artists, thus with a mix of art and architecture, this palace will intrigue a true artist in you in no time. 

 

You might have visited numerous skyscrapers, but what you can experience from the Galata Tower is something phenomenal. Nestled on a steep hill, it is one of the tallest and oldest towers that still does not fail to mesmerize you with its spectacular architecture. Built during the Byzantine era, this iconic landmark offers a stunning bird’s eye view of the Istanbul city’s skyline. Visit the tower at night, and you will be mesmerized by the magical views of the city skyline.

The tower houses a cafe, a restaurant, and a souvenir shop. Thus, here you can indulge in a shopping spree, gorge on a local Turkish dish, and cherish panoramic views of the surroundings.