It is the most impressive historical venue in Istanbul that brings together a unique collection of artifacts and sculptures from Turkey and the Middle East. The museum consists of three different sections out of which the main is the Archeology Museum, and the other two are Tiled Pavilion of Mehmed the Conqueror and Museum of the Ancient Orient.

You can find a wealth of treasures on the show over here from Egyptian, Roman, Byzantine, and Hittite civilization.

Location: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey

This is a drop-dead gorgeous fresco-laden and mosaic church that is considered to be one of the best examples of Byzantine monuments. It is supported by columns, surrounded by sixteen distinct long windows, and is illuminated by natural light.

The walls of the church depict the biblical stories and have images of Virgin Mary. It is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul for all those who wish to seek the best of religious bliss and architectural grandeur.

Location: Dervisali, Kariye Camii Sk. No:18, 34087 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey

This is a cluster of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara and is considered to be a popular destination for the tourists as well as the locals alike to escape from the hectic city life. It is dotted with fragrant tangerine, lemon trees, pink magnolias, and impressive wooden mansions.

During the former times, royal empresses and princes were exiled here, and therefore, it came to be known as Prince’s Island. Whether you wish to experience the calm and sunshine or want to swim in the sea, Prince’s Island should be your go-to destination.
 

Location: Sea of Marmara, Istanbul

This ornate and beautiful palace is one of the most glamorous places in Istanbul that has carved a special place in the heart of the tourists. It was formerly the administrative center of the Ottoman empire, and naval ceremonies were organized over here during that time.

But now it has become a popular tourist attraction that gives a reflection of the European style opulence with its grandeur and neverending beauty. It has French style furniture, mammoth crystal chandeliers, and dazzling frescoed ceilings that allure the visitors.

Location: Visnezade, Dolmabahce Cd., 34357 Besiktas/Istanbul, Turkey

This is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul and is packed with hotels, restaurants, and exquisite shops. It also has the main subway station and a local bus terminal for efficient public transportation. Taksim Square is also the meeting point for public concerts, parades, New Year’s Eve, and other important shows.

The most popular attraction in Taksim Square is the Independence Monument that is commemorative of the Soviet Union during the Turkish War.

Location: Beyoglu, Istanbul

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque is located in the Sultanahmet square. The mosque was ordered to be built by Sultan Ahmet I. He wanted the mosque to complement the structure of Hagia Sophia, he wanted the mosque to be as much breathtaking. The Sultan Ahmet mosque draws attention to the handpainted Iznik ceramic tiles used inside. There are 20.000 tiles used on the interior in total. These handpainted tiles are mostly painted with blue and red inks. Due to the blue tiles found inside the mosque, it is also referred to as the Blue Mosque.

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque is also one of the unique mosques because of having six minarets. Traditionally mosques have either two or four minarets. However, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque has six minarets. Even though it is not confirmed, it is said that the mosque has six minarets due to a misunderstanding between one of the architects and the sultan Ahmet. Apparently, Sultan Ahmet I wanted “golden minarets” (“altın minare” in Turkish) however, the architect misunderstood this phrase as “six minarets” (“altı minare” in Turkish) and built six minarets as a result. Yet, this created a major problem. The only mosque with six minarets in the world was the mosque in Kaaba in Mecca. Fearing from being disrespectful, Sultan Ahmet I ordered a seventh minaret to be added to the mosque in Kaaba which solved the problem.

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque is located in the Sultanahmet square. The mosque was ordered to be built by Sultan Ahmet I. He wanted the mosque to complement the structure of Hagia Sophia, he wanted the mosque to be as much breathtaking. The Sultan Ahmet mosque draws attention to the handpainted Iznik ceramic tiles used inside. There are 20.000 tiles used on the interior in total. These handpainted tiles are mostly painted with blue and red inks. Due to the blue tiles found inside the mosque, it is also referred to as the Blue Mosque.

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque is also one of the unique mosques because of having six minarets. Traditionally mosques have either two or four minarets. However, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque has six minarets. Even though it is not confirmed, it is said that the mosque has six minarets due to a misunderstanding between one of the architects and the sultan Ahmet. Apparently, Sultan Ahmet I wanted “golden minarets” (“altın minare” in Turkish) however, the architect misunderstood this phrase as “six minarets” (“altı minare” in Turkish) and built six minarets as a result. Yet, this created a major problem. The only mosque with six minarets in the world was the mosque in Kaaba in Mecca. Fearing from being disrespectful, Sultan Ahmet I ordered a seventh minaret to be added to the mosque in Kaaba which solved the problem.