At the beginning of our journey and as part of a travel series through which we tour the world, our first destination was Istanbul, one of the most beautiful and largest cities in the world, and the largest in Turkey.
We will make it easier for you to visit and explore all its landmarks, as it is recommended to divide the city into areas so that you can see it completely.
Sultanahmet
We begin our tour in the historical heart of Istanbul, the Sultanahmet area, where the greatness of the Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations is manifested.
Here, you can visit Hagia Sophia, which dates back to the 6th century AD, with its magnificent domes and stunning mosaic icons, making you feel as if you are traveling through time to an era filled with splendor and beauty. You can also enjoy the beauty of the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), famous for its blue tiles and unique design. In addition, you can explore Topkapi Palace, where the Ottoman sultans lived for more than four centuries.
Grand Bazaar
And in the Sultanahmet area, you can visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, housing more than 4,000 shops.It is called the “Grand Bazaar” or the “Covered Bazaar” in the Fatih district of Istanbul, where you can buy souvenirs, jewelry, and traditional handmade products in a lively atmosphere full of vibrant colors. After that, visit the Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the “Spice Market,” and enjoy its fragrant atmosphere while buying unique spices that add a special flavor to your experience in Istanbul.
Taksim
After exploring the Sultanahmet area, you can head to Taksim, the center of life and the most famous tourist area in Istanbul.And then to Istiklal Street, the vibrant avenue bustling with shops, restaurants, and cafes.It is very easy to reach Taksim by using the metro or public buses, and enjoy shopping and tasting traditional Turkish foods in this lively street, day and night.
Sultan Eyüp
The Sultan Eyüp area in Istanbul, also known as “Eyüp Sultan,” is one of the most prominent historical and tourist areas in the city.It is located on the European side of Istanbul and overlooks the Golden Horn, giving it stunning views and a strategic location close to famous tourist attractions.The area includes the shrine of the great companion Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari, which is considered one of the most important religious landmarks in Turkey.The area has a well-developed infrastructure that includes various public transportation options such as buses and the cable car, making it easy to reach different parts of Istanbul.Sultan Eyüp is famous for its rich cultural atmosphere and is distinguished by the presence of many restaurants and cafes offering traditional Turkish dishes, giving the area a unique character that blends authenticity and modernity.Sultan Eyüp is an ideal destination for tourists, offering a unique combination of history, culture, and integrated services.
The Bosphorus Strait
No visit to Istanbul is complete without a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, where you can depart from one of the ports near Taksim, such as Kabataş Port, and enjoy a trip on traditional boats.You will see magnificent palaces and stunning bridges that connect the European and Asian sides of the city.And after the boat trip, head to Galataport, a port and commercial complex on the Bosphorus shore, which opened in 2020.
Kadıköy
To explore the Asian side of Istanbul, you can take the ferry from Eminönü Port to Kadıköy, a vibrant area filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets.Enjoy shopping at the traditional Kadıköy Market and tasting the fresh local foods, where you can savor fresh fruits, vegetables, and delicious cheeses. Visit the famous Bahariye Street and enjoy the lively and colorful atmosphere of the streets.And don’t miss visiting the famous Fish Market and tasting the fresh seafood.
Princes’ Islands
To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you can take a day trip to the Princes’ Islands, which can be reached by ferry from Kabataş Port.There, enjoy the tranquility and stunning nature, and explore the islands by bicycle or horse-drawn carriages.
Safari Trips
Among the available options for visitors to Istanbul is exploring the dense forests and stunning natural areas, seeing the diverse wildlife, and enjoying the breathtaking landscapes.The Belgrad Forest is one of the top destinations for enjoyable safari trips in Istanbul. These forests are located in the northwest of the city and cover a vast area of greenery.Visitors can embark on safari trips to explore these dense forests, where they can enjoy breathtaking landscapes and discover the local wildlife, including various species of wild animals.The forest also offers walking and cycling trails, making it an ideal destination for sports and adventure lovers.
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