Founded in 1000 BC, Istanbul has always been the representative of long and illustrious history. A traveler who loves monuments will have the best time here. This metropolis has been adored by the emperors across the centuries. Officially, it got its current name after the foundation of the Turkish republic. Given the city’s magnificence in mind, a traveler may feel confused about finding the best tourist attractions in Istanbul. Various sights with historical significance demand the attention of the visitors.
Getting Ideas about the Places to Visit in Istanbul
Covid has changed the tourism scenario of the city to a great extent. So, a traveler needs to be aware of the safety measures before planning a city trip. Besides, getting a clear idea about the government directive is recommended to avoid any hassle. The hotel and hospitality centers, however, are ready to welcome the guests with open arms.
Why is Aya Sofya one of the Best Tourist Attractions in Istanbul?
The Aya Sofya was formerly known as the Hagia Sophia. This stood for emperor Justinian’s wealth and the technical ability of his empire. History suggests that the area around the emperor’s throne inside the church was deemed the world’s official center. Later, the Ottoman armies conquered Constantinople and converted it to a mosque. One of the main tourist attractions in Istanbul further was transformed into a museum in the 20th century.
Topkapi Palace or Topkapi Sarayi:
Mehmet the Conqueror built this palace in the 15th century beside the Bosporus. It was the place where the Ottoman Empire’s sultans continued to rule until the 19th century. The vast complex offers an exhilarating display of Islamic art. The opulent courtyards lined with intricate hand-painted tile-work further add to its appeal. Mentioned below are some other features which make it one of the best tourist attractions in Istanbul.
- Harem
- The Second Court
- Palace Kitchens
- Imperial Council Chamber
- The Third Court with Sultan’s Private Rooms
The Third Court further demands a special mention for an impressive collection of relics of the Prophet Muhammad in the Sacred Safekeeping Room. Besides, it houses the Imperial Treasury. A tourist needs to spend long hours at Topkapi palace to get lost in the world of glittering gold objects and precious gems.
Blue Mosque:
Blue Mosque or Sultan Ahmet Camii is one of the popular places in Istanbul. This architectural excellence was built between 1609 and 1616. It had 6 minarets like the Great Mosque of Mecca. Its 7th minaret was a gift to Mecca to stem the dissent. Its extraordinary interior decoration boasts of 10,000 Iznik tiles.
Besides, it is one of the best examples of Ottoman architecture thanks to the full spatial and color effect. Moreover, a visit to the mosque at dusk and the echoing prayers offer a religious experience.
A traveler can also find aesthetic souvenirs to collect at the Arasta Bazaar behind the Blue Mosque. One can end the day by paying a visit to the Great Palace Mosaic Museum. The 250 square meter fragment of mosaic pavement makes it one of the best tourist attractions in Istanbul.
Anyone interested in Istanbul’s best tourist attractions can further include Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern, Istanbul Archaeology Museum, Grand Bazaar, or Suleymaniye Mosque in the itinerary. Honestly, the mosques and monuments are in-numerous in Istanbul, and that’s why everyone can stumble upon a gem in every corner of the city.