Istanbul is a destination like none other

Istanbul, the Turkish capital is a multifaceted city with great history, impressive architecture, great food and a culture which is mix of European sophistication and Asian sensibilities. The Bosophorus Bridge not only connects two continents but also two cultures. As a destination it offers such a diversity that you will find it hard to categorise. Not every destination in the world offers such a fascinating blend of history, culture and location. With a present as glorious as it’s past, it inspires globetrotters to take Istanbul city break where surprises are so common place. Here we pick some of the gem of tourist attractions that every tourist should visit.

Topkapi Palace

The nerve centre of the then Ottoman Empire, Topkapi Palace has served as the home to Sultans and their harems - the prison housing wives and concubines of Sultans. On your visit you will see the royal jewels in the Treasury and kitchens that once cooked for 5,000 people every day.

Hagia Sophia

One of the fine specimens of Byzantine architecture Hagia Sophia was built by Emperor Justinian in 537.The cathedral that ruled the for more than nine centuries for being the world’s greatest cathedral later served as a mosque when Constantinople fell to the Turks in 1453. Now Hagia Sophia has been converted in to a museum.

Blue Mosque

Situated close to Hagia Sophia, the 17th-century Blue Mosque also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque looks stunning with six minarets. Interestingly the city has acquired its nickname Blue Mosque from the blue tiles covering the walls. The mosque is also open for non-Muslims but they need to cover their head while entering.

Istanbul Archaeology Museum

The museum may not be receiving crowd like Topkapi Palace or Hagia Sophia but it is the destinations you shouldn’t miss. Divided in three blocks namely the Archaeology Museum (Arkeoloji Müzesi), the Museum of the Ancient Orient (EskiSark Eserler Müzesi) and the Tiled Kiosk (Çinili Kösk), the museum showcases collections from the palaces.

The Bosphorus

Your Istanbul trip will remain incomplete without crossing the renowned Bosphorus which is one of the major reasons to visit Istanbul. So take a Bosophorus Cruise and visit the Maiden’s Tower.

Grand Bazaar

If you are someone who wants to buy souvenirs to make your trip memorable then visiting Grand Bazaar could be an ideal option. While visiting this market you should remember that haggling is the order of the day here.

Galata Bridge

Tourists often visit Galata Bridge to see the sun setting over Istanbul’s spectacular skyline. You can also get atop Galata Tower and sit in a rooftop bar that offers a spectacular view of the surrounding.