Istanbul is the largest city in Türkiye. It is located in the northwest of the country, on the shores of the Bosphorus, which separates Europe and Asia, which gives it the privilege of being the only city in the world that straddles two continents. Although the capital is Ankara, Istanbul plays a major role in the country’s industry, trade, culture and tourism. Istanbul is one of the most charming places on the planet. A city full of contrasts, cultures, sounds, colors, scents, smells. Churches, mosques, and synagogues coexist in perfect harmony, giving the city a unique and characteristic beauty. Innumerable tourist attractions make Istanbul one of the most visited cities in the world.
THE RHYTHM OF THE DANCE SHOW
This unique show takes place in Hodjapasha Cultural Center, a former sixteenth century hammam which has been transformed into an arts center. The performance is completely authentic and different to a restaurant dinner and show. The show includes countless acts, combining regional dances from the Balkans, Anatolia, Azerbaijan.
Official website: http: //www.hodjapasha.com
WHIRLING DERVISH SHOW
The Sufi whirling, also known as Sama, is one of the best-known and most inspiring ceremonies in Türkiye. Established by the followers of the thirteenth century Persian poet, Rumi, the Mevlevi Order (Whirling Dervish) are a Muslim order who dance as a form of prayer. The ceremony begins with 15 minutes of traditional Turkish music played by some of the best local orchestras in the city, followed by the Mevlevi Order performing the dance ritual of the whirling Dervishes for 45 minutes. This act is listed as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. During the show, the Dervishes spin on their left foot with their arms stretched out and embark on a spiritual journey to find the truth through love until they reach perfection.
HAGIA SOPHIA MOSQUE
(AYASOFYA CAMİİ)
TOPKAPI PALACE
BLUE MOSQUE OR SULTANAHMET MOSQUE IN ISTANBUL
GRAND BAZAAR
GRAND BAZAAR IS AN OLD AND LARGE COVERED MARKET IN ISTANBUL.
GALATA TOWER
There is an observation platform on the upper level, from which you can take great photos or just admire the panoramas of the city and the sea. At the foot of the building there are several restaurants, including those serving national cuisine of the country.
SULEYMANIYE MOSQUE
MAIDEN’S TOWER
YOROS CASTLE
( YOROS KALESI)
BAYEZID II MOSQUE
RUMEL FORTRESS
( RUMELI HISARI )
EMIRGAN PARK
MOSQUE OF SULTAN WALID IN ISTANBUL
ISTANBUL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
Official website: http://www.muze.gen.tr
MINIATURK
On Miniature Square there are models of famous European and Turkish sights, created in a 1 to 25 format. The number of objects is more than a hundred: there is a seaport, a railway road, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Blue Mosque, etc.
GOLDEN HORN BAY
This blissful place of Istanbul is one of the most famous bays in the world, is located in Istanbul. The poets of antiquity praised this bay for its ethereal beauty, characterised by fragrant tulip gardens and mild surroundings. Golden Horn Bay is home to many historical monuments, restaurants, cafes, hotels. The best way to explore them today is to take a ferry cruise on the waters of the bay, from where you will have a breathtaking view of the majestic palaces, mosques and cathedral.
BOSPHORUS STRAIT
Bosphorus Bridge – the first suspension bridge across the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul.
DOLMABAHCE PALACE
South view of the North Gate of Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul.
Luxurious park of the Dolmabahçe Palace complex on the European side of the Bosphorus in Istanbul.
BEYLERBEY PALACE
Facade of the Beylerbey Palace on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul
Official website: http://www.millisaraylar.gov.tr
YILDIZ PALACE
Yıldız Palace, the last example of Turkish Ottoman palace architecture, is located on Yıldız Hill of Beşiktaş district.
http:// kulturportali.gov.tr
HIPPODROME SQUARE
The Sultanahmet Square, also known as Hippodrome and surrounded by the famous Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Museum and Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, one of the most famous tourist areas in Istanbul.
TAKSIM SQUARE
Taksim Square View with Statues
Awesome view of the Taksim Mosque and the Republic Monument at the Taksim Square on sunny day. The public square is a popular tourist destination.
Taksim is not just a square, but an entire entertainment and tourist area, which is famous for its shops, restaurants, hotels, and it is from here that the legendary lively Istiklal street originates, with its many bars, nightclubs, cinemas. The Square itself is just as lively, because it is the epicenter of many important events – various social events are held here, concerts, parades, and on December 31, the urban population flocks here to celebrate the New Year. A number of historical buildings of the 19th century is occupied on the Square, and a 12 – meter monument “Republic”, dedicated to many heroes – liberators.
ISTIKLAL AVENUE
This pic shows aerial view of red tram on crowded Istiklal Avenue in Taksim, Istanbul.
Istiklal – a street of amazing contrasts, where chic restaurants and eateries, temples of different faiths and trendy nightclubs coexist in the neighborhood, Arabic and European motifs are intertwined in architecture. Located in the Beyoglu district on the European side of Istanbul.
SHOPS IN ISTIKLAL STREET
This pedestrianized street is ideal for Shopping lovers; with a large number of luxurious and valuable stores that include the most prestigious international brands shops, as well as smaller shops that you can find in on both sides of Istiklal Street selling various goods. Musical instruments, simple jewelry, books, sweets, and many shops line the street.
RESTAURANTS IN ISTIKLAL AVENUE
Istanbul is a city that never sleeps. If you’re looking for the perfect place to have dinner, Istanbul offers many options. Beyoglu district and Taksim Square have some of the best restaurants in Istanbul, and it’s worth exploring!
GALATA TOWER
There is no transport here – the street is completely reserved for walking, so you can walk slowly, breathing in the spirit of history, and admire the ancient buildings, among which are the Galata Tower (http://www.muze.gov.tr.), Huseyn Aga Mosque, the Flower Passage (http://tarihicicekpasaji.com). You can look into the shops. The highlight of Istanbul’s Istiklal street is Madam Tussauds Istanbul (http://www.madametussauds.com),which is a must-see wax museum that has over 60 wax models of various famous local and foreign people.
Another must-see place on Istiklal Avenue is the Pera Museum (http://www.peramuzesi.org.tr), which is one of the most famous contemporary art museums in Türkiye.
FLOWER PASSAGE (ÇIÇEK PASAJI)
PERA MUSEUM
MADAM TUSSAUDS MUSEUM, MUSTAFA KEMAL ATATÜRK
MADAM TUSSAUDS MUSEUM, RUMI
MADAM TUSSAUDS MUSEUM, ALBERT EINSTEIN
CHURCH OF ST. IRENE
The ancient church of Hagia Irene in the historical center of Istanbul in the Sultanahmet district.
KARIYE MUSEUM
Kariye Museum in the Byzantine Church of Christ the Savior on the territory of Chora Monastery in Istanbul.
MUSEUM OF MODERN ART
Museum of Contemporary Art in a two-story building of the former Port warehouse in Istanbul
Official website:http://www.istanbulmodern.com
GALATA MEVLEVI HOUSE MUSEUM
http://www.muze.gov.tr
VALENS AQUEDUCT
Motorway under the Valens Aqueduct on Atatürk Boulevard in the old part of Istanbul.
ISTANBUL CITY WALLS
HAYDARPASHA STATION
GULHANE PARK
ALLEY OF GULHANE CITY PARK IN EMINONU DISTRICT OF ISTANBUL
SHOPPING MALLS IN ISTANBUL
ISTANBUL CEVAHIR MALL
Cevahir shopping mall a huge shopping place which boasts as Europe’s second and the World’s eighth biggest shopping center. It is located in the European part of the city, in the fashionable Shishli district. A shopping mall designed for shoppers. One of the amazing malls in Istanbul. It has huge variety of restaurants and fast food.
ISTINYE PARK
This is one of the best shopping centers in Istanbul. It is built with taste and well organized. All designer brands are available and there is a selection of great cafes and restaurants.
ZORLU CENTER
Zorlu Shopping Center offers an exclusive shopping experience in the only Bulgari and Tiffany and CO. Stores in Türkiye, as well as in stores of world – famous brands such as Louis Vuitton, Prada, etc.
FORUM SHOPPING CENTER
Forum Istanbul is a large shopping and entertainment center in the Bayrampasha district of Istanbul. Here more than 280 shops, an aquarium, a Legoland amusement park, a cinema, a bowling alley, cafes and restaurants.
KANYON SHOPPING CENTER
Kanyon Istanbul combines a unique approach to shopping, entertainment in an unusual architectural shell. Kanyon has 160 shops, a cinema, a fitness center. The best local and global brands, restaurants, cafes and open-air performances are filled with a lively atmosphere. The prestigious fashion brands of the world famous fashion retailer Harvey Nichols and Vakko are represented in Kanyon.
AQUA FLORYA SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Shopping Center opened its doors to their customers on October 04, 2012 with a completely new concept aimed at changing the perception of ordinary shopping centers. The most desirable point of Aqua Florya combining entertainment and shopping under one roof, is the world’s largest themed aquarium, called Istanbul Aquarium. He also specializes in fine tastes of diverse cuisine, cafes and restaurants with sea views and a large amphitheater for various events.
THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN ISTANBUL WORTH VISITING
Istanbul is not only a fragrant kebab, not roasted chestnuts, and sour pomegranate juice. In the city where Europe and Asia connect, you can taste dishes from many cuisine of the world. The hallmark of Istanbul restaurants is the view of the Bosphorus. To contemplate the magnificent panorama, enjoying a delicious dinner in a cozy atmosphere, in a city with a centuries-old history – is a real pleasure.
GÜNAYDIN
Official website:http://www.gunaydinet.com
NUSR – ET STEAKHOUSE
Official website:http://www.nusr-et.com.tr
MÜRVER RESTAURANT KARAKÖY
Official website:http://www.murverrestaurant.com
ZUMA ISTINYE
The Zuma Japanese restaurant is located on the famous square of the Istinye Park shopping center, between the Michael Kors and Moncler Stores. Guests are offered a meat and vegetarian menu, the most delicate seafood and rolls.
Official website:http://zumarestaurant.com
BEYTI FLORYA
Official website:http://www.beyti.com
NEOLOKAL BEYOĜLU
This is a Turkish cuisine restaurant with an unusual serving of dishes.
Official website:http://www.neolokal.com
MEOS BALIK
Official website:http://www.meosbalik.com
This is a fish restaurant located right by the sea, on the waterfront of the Florya district in Istanbul.
Official website:http://www.meosbalik.com
VILLA BOSPHORUS
Villa Bosphorus is a fish restaurant with a good selection of seafood, decent service and a wonderful view of the bridge over the Bosphorus, which is illuminated by colored lights at night.
Official website:http://www.villabosphorus.com. tr
ELEOS RESTAURANT
Official website:http://www.eleosrestaurant.com
360 ISTANBUL
Official website:http://www.360istanbul.com
WHERE TO STAY IN ISTANBUL?
Going to such a huge metropolis as Istanbul, it is very important to choose the right place to stay in Istanbul. Before you start searching for a suitable hotel in Istanbul, you need to choose the area where you want to stay. Istanbul a huge city, there are a lot of hotels in it, city transport is expensive, distances are long, so in order not to waste time and money on moving around the city, you need to choose the optimal area for living based on the purpose of the trip. Istanbul is located on two continents: Europe and Asia. The European and Asian parts of Istanbul are separated by the Bosphorus.
There are two tourist districts of Istanbul on the Asian side: Kadıköy and Üsküdar. The Asian part is suitable for those who are not in Istanbul for the first time, who have already visited the main sights of Istanbul.
KHEDIVE (CUBUKLU) PALACE , HIDIV KASRI, ASIAN SIDE OF ISTANBUL
TERRACE OF TABASUMA, ASIAN SIDE OF ISTANBUL
BEYLERBEYI PALACE, ASIAN SIDE OF ISTANBUL
BÜYÜK CAMLICA , THE HIGHEST POINT OF ISTANBUL
The European part of Istanbul is divided into two parts by the Golden Horn Bay and the Galata Bridge connects them. Usually tourists distinguish two areas: Fatih (Sultanahmet) and Taksim. Because all the main attractions are concentrated here (GalataTower, Rumeli Fortress, Ayasofya, The Blue Mosque, Dolmabahçe Palace, Egyptian Bazaar, Grand Bazar, Topkapı Palace and etc).
Fatih is the most popular and densely populated area of Istanbul. The most famous tourist quarters of the Fatih district are Aksaray, Laleli, Bayazit, Sirkeji, Sultanahmet. There are many famous mosques in Fatih.
EGYPTIAN BAZAAR (MISIR ÇARŞISI)
The market building is a historical building that began to be built in the 17th century and took 73 years to built. It was repeatedly subjected to fires, restored, lost some details, but did not lose its authenticity.
Here you will find different varieties of high quality Turkish tea and coffee, Turkish cheese and other dairy products. The air of the market is saturated with the aromas of fresh and dried fruits. All kinds of oriental sweets deserve special attention, especially Turkish baklava and Turkish delights with various fillings.
A little aside, you will see shops with gold and silver. You can find everything in this magnificent market.
WHY IS IT CALLED EGYPTIAN BAZAAR?
Formerly known as the Valid Bazaar, it later earned a reputation under the name Egyptian Bazaar, as the spices that were sold at the bazaar came from Egypt.
Official website:http://www.misircarsisi.org.tr
GRAND BAZAAR
A city within a city, a giant maze or a wonderland with precious, colorful, unique handmade products from all over the country. Here you will get lost in historical covered markets, streets covered with vaulted domes, small squares, centuries-old hotels and countless shops overflowing with goods. The Grand Bazaar has been the heart of Istanbul’s commercial life since the 15th century and offers an endless variety of goods from fabrics, antiques to carpets for all tastes.
WHAT TO BUY IN THE GRAND BAZAAR?
Jewelry, leather products, carpets, all sorts of delicious delights, sweets, spices, nuts (hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts, pistachios), dried colorful, healthy fruits, lokum (Turkish delight), Turkish tea, coffee.
Istanbul is a city of historical monuments and delicious sweets. Istanbul is a city where you want to breathe deeply. Istanbul is a very beautiful, cozy, harmonious, hospitable city. Best time to visit Istanbul is an April-May, as well as September and early October are considered ideal for walking and exploring the sights. At this time, there is almost no rain in Istanbul, and the air temperature is kept at + 20-25 ° C.
Finding a place to eat in Istanbul is not a problem. There are many facilities for every taste and budget. Popular traditional dishes: various types of kofte and kebabs, beyran (spicy soup), iskender (grilled meat), fish and vegetable dishes, lahmacun – (thin dough with spicy minced meat), roasted chestnuts and boiled corn, simits – (bagels with sesame seeds), baklava, halva and other Turkish sweets.