Istanbul’s Top Attractions
East Meets West: Istanbul’s Top Attractions
With both a European and Asian side, Istanbul really is where East and West meet. Here are some of the city’s top tourist attractions.
Sultanahmet
Many of Istanbul’s most famous buildings are in Sultanahmet on the European side. Tourists can enjoy the beautiful Blue Mosque, built by Sultan Ahmet I in the 17th century. Or they can take a trip to the city’s past in the Hagia Sophia – which has been both a Christian church and a mosque before being made into a museum.
Spice Bazaar
While the Grand Bazaar is the most famous Istanbul market, the Spice Bazaar offers a more fun and colorful shopping experience. Almost any spice can be found in the Spice Bazaar, as well as Turkish candies – and the shops will let you try a little bit of everything!
Kadiköy
The Kadiköy neighborhood on Istanbul’s Asian side is popular with young people for its pubs, cafes and music venues. Chat with artists and writers in the tea garden of the Nâzım Hikmet Cultural Center, which celebrates the life of one of Turkey’s most famous poets. After that, shop for antiques on Tellalzade Street.
The Bosporusis
The Bosporus is between Istanbul’s two sides. There are many Bosporus boat tours to choose from, including ones with meals and entertainment. For the best price, take one of the city’s public boats – tickets cost less than $1, and they offer the same sights.
Food
Istanbul is famous for its food. Enjoy some meze – many small plates of food – with fish and the local spirit, raki. Or buy a simit – a round bread covered in seeds – from the street sellers. Don’t forget to try a cup of Turkish coffee or a glass of black tea with lots of sugar.
Local Friendly Tour Guide
To get the best experience out of Istanbul you need to book one of our local friendly tour guides. He will be able to show you around, make you feel like a local. Whether you want to see the tourist sites or visit places off the beaten track and discover the new experiences, then our Guides4me guide is there to make it happen.
