Istanbul is a vibrant and fascinating city with something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or shopping. In this article we have collected the must-do experiences for 1 week in this beautiful city of Turkey. After Day 1, we continue now with the second day and sharing even more landmarks to visit in Istanbul.
Things to do in Istanbul – Day 2.
Topkapi Palace
The Topkapi Palace is a historic palace located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed II, the conqueror of Constantinople, and served as the primary residence and administrative center for the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. The palace complex covers an area of approximately 700,000 square meters and features a wide variety of buildings, including royal residences, courtyards, gardens, mosques, and administrative offices.
Some of the most notable buildings within the complex include the Imperial Harem, the Palace Kitchens, the Treasury, and the Palace Museum. Today, the Topkapi Palace is a major tourist attraction and one of Istanbul’s most important cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore the various buildings and courtyards of the complex, view the stunning collections of art, artifacts, and precious objects housed within the palace museum, and learn about the history and culture of the Ottoman Empire.
The Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic center, it covers an area of 61 streets and over 4,000 shops, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The Grand Bazaar dates back to the 15th century, when it was first built as a small market for traders selling textiles and spices. Over time, it expanded to become a hub for various types of goods, including jewelry, carpets, ceramics, leather goods, and more. Today, visitors to the Grand Bazaar can expect to find a bustling atmosphere filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of traditional Turkish market culture.
The Yeni Mosque
The Yeni Mosque (New Mosque) is a historic mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the 17th century during the Ottoman Empire and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Istanbul. The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I and completed in 1663. It is known for its impressive architecture, including its grand dome and minarets, as well as its beautiful interior, which is adorned with intricate tile work and calligraphy.
The Yeni Mosque is located in the Eminönü district of Istanbul, near the Galata Bridge and the Spice Bazaar. It is open to visitors and is a popular tourist attraction, as well as an active place of worship for the local Muslim community.
The Süleymaniye Mosque
The Süleymaniye Mosque is a historic mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and built in the 16th century during the Ottoman Empire. The mosque is one of the largest and most impressive in Istanbul and is considered a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.
The Süleymaniye Mosque features a large central dome and four minarets, as well as several smaller domes and a spacious courtyard. The interior is decorated with intricate tile work, calligraphy, and stained glass windows. The mosque also houses the tombs of Sultan Suleiman and his wife, Hürrem Sultan (also known as Roxelana).
Enjoy our discounts in Istanbul
Useful information about Istanbul
What are the top experiences in Istanbul?
Here are some of the top experiences to add to your Istanbul bucket list:
- Visit the iconic Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) and marvel at its stunning architecture.
- Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans.
- Take a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait and enjoy the beautiful views of Istanbul’s skyline.
- Visit the Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s greatest architectural marvels.
- Shop for spices, textiles, and other souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.
- Visit the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir that once supplied water to the city.
- Watch the sunset from the Galata Tower and enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul.
- Explore the historic neighborhood of Sultanahmet and its many landmarks.
- Take a day trip to the Princes’ Islands and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
- Sample delicious Turkish cuisine, including kebabs, meze, and baklava.
Is Istanbul safe?
Istanbul is generally a safe city for tourists, but as with any city, there are certain precautions that travelers should take to ensure their safety. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded areas, so it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. However, each season has its own unique charms, so it really depends on what you’re looking for in a trip to Istanbul.
Best experiences in Istanbul
Istanbul has everything a visitor needs to have a great experience. Its natural beauty draws visitors from around the world- along with its numerous important sites and cultural heritage. As far as things to do in the place go, there are plenty of activities available for visitors.
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