Whether you want a relaxing weekend getaway or a fun-filled vacation, the captivating country has something for everyone. Turkey has beautiful landscapes, two heritage sites, magnificent mosques, and one of the seven wonders of the world.

Istanbul, known as the bridge between Europe and Asia, is a magnificent blend of ancient and modern life. These worlds collide with the city's rich history, vibrant, bustling streets, and the seemingly endless array of hidden gems around every corner.

Prepare to be wowed by the breathtaking views of ancient architecture and the glistening Bosphorus; fly through the skies of Cappadocia; pick up a few one-of-a-kind souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar; and so much more. There are always exciting things to do in Istanbul, from boat tours to museums, peaceful parks, and busy local streets.

1. Admire the Beauty of Hagia Sophia Museum

If you only have time to see one thing in Istanbul, make it the Hagia Sophia.

This cathedral was built in 537 AD. For over 900 years, it served as the residence of the Orthodox Patriarch of Constantinople. The Hagia Sophia was the Byzantine Empire's single greatest architectural achievement. When the Ottomans conquered Constantinople in 1453, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. Until July 2020, it served as a museum. It is now a mosque. Enter this amazing wonder. The Hagia Sophia has elements of both Christian and Islamic religions.

The massive, transcendent dome is breathtaking, and it is easy to lose track of time staring at it. Byzantine mosaics of emperors and Christ adorn the walls of this architectural marvel. Hagia Sophia is a museum that was once an imperial mosque and a Greek Orthodox Christian patriarchal basilica. Hagia Sophia, another historic building, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The structure features a massive dome that is regarded as a watershed moment in architecture at the time. Complete your Istanbul tour by availing of booking.com's best deals on hotels and flights!

2. Explore Topkapi Palace

Make sure to include the Topkapi Palace on your list of palaces to visit. It is located on the city's most visible hill and provides a closer look into the lives of the Sultan during the Ottoman Empire. The museum in the building, which was built in 1461, is the most visited in Istanbul. It can get crowded, so go early in the morning. The Spoonmaker's diamond, the world's fifth largest at 86 carats, and the best handmade Iznik tiles are worth seeing in the palace.

The Harem, where Sultan's mother, wives, and concubines lived, is one of the best places to visit in Topkapi Palace. Topkapi Palace is a stunning landmark in Istanbul. Every room is adorned with exquisite tile work. If you visit in the spring, the gardens are brimming with tulips and hyacinths. In addition, the views of Istanbul from here are spectacular.

Topkapi Palace, once the main residence as well as the administrative headquarters of the Ottoman Empire's powerful sultans, is a top attraction in every Istanbul guidebook.

3. Go underground at the Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern, or Yerebatan Sarnc as it is known in Turkish, was built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I to store up to 80,000 cubic meters of water and channel it to nearby palaces. The cistern, which contains hundreds of ancient Ionic and Corinthian columns, is a relic of the Byzantine Empire's water system that visitors can explore firsthand. The dark underground complex is also a great place to cool off in the summer. Take a tour to learn more about the history, especially about the iconic Medusa heads at the base of one of the 336 marble columns that support the structure.

The Basilica Cistern, also known as the "underground palace," has 336 columns that support small domes above them. Seeing the magnificent structure will undoubtedly be a special treat for architecture and art enthusiasts. Plan out your holiday in Istanbul and book the best-priced hotels and flights at booking.com.

4. Be Mesmerized by Blue Mosque

Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, attracts a large number of tourists who visit Turkey because of its bluish interiors. Visiting this place of worship is undoubtedly one of the things that locals recommend when asked what to do in Turkey. This mosque was built by an Ottoman sultan and stands next to another famous landmark, Hagia Sophia. This mosque has an outer and inner courtyard, six minarets, and various balconies. The inner courtyard is marble-paved and surrounded by a small domed portico.

The city's most famous landmark, the Blue Mosque, has over 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles on its interior walls, which are illuminated by natural light from over 200 windows. It should be noted that the Blue Mosque is still a functioning mosque, and visitors are not permitted during prayer times. The iron chain over the courtyard's central entrance was supposed to remind the sultan to bow when he rode in.

5. Gaze from Galata Bridge and Tower

Galata Tower was built 1500 years ago as a lighthouse to guide ships and keep an eye on the surrounding area. This tower also has the distinction of hosting the first flight of Hezarfen Ahmet Elebi, a legendary Ottoman aviator. Galata Tower is now a cafe and restaurant where you can enjoy a drink or some food while admiring the stunning view of Haliç. An interesting (myth) about the Tower that you probably haven't heard is that you get married to the person with whom you go up the Tower. Bring your lover to the Tower to show him/her your love once more while enjoying this breathtaking view.

The Galata Bridge spanning over the Golden Horn is a great choice for the "it" place in Istanbul with all of the action. The bridge itself has an interesting backstory. Did you know it's been rebuilt five times?! It was historically used to connect two different civilizations. It was, in fact, the route from Constantinople to the Old City. Nowadays, both tourists and locals enjoy the area around Galata Bridge. This is the place to go if you want to get a true sense of the city. Try some cheap and delicious street food, gaze at the passing ferryboats, and simply learn more about the Turkish way of life.

6. Shop Around Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, with thousands of shops spread across dozens of streets. With food, antiques, fabrics, carpets, traditional Ottoman and Islamic arts, and everything in between, you'll undoubtedly be able to find something to remind you of your visit.

The Grand Bazaar spans 60 streets and houses over 4,000 shops, so you may not be able to see it all in a single day. It's worth visiting even if you don't intend to buy anything because the complex's historic atmosphere is its true draw. In Istanbul, you can find anything. Try Istiklal Street, which runs from Taksim Square to Sisli, or the Cevahir shopping mall in Sisli. It's one of Europe's largest shopping malls, and it's conveniently located just two metro stops from Taksim. If you prefer something more traditional, visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest covered markets.

7. Take Bosphorus Cruise

Istanbul is the only city that spans both Europe and Asia. These two continents are separated by the Bosphorus River. A cruise on the Bosphorus Strait is a great way to see more of this city if you have the time.

A cruise on the Bosphorus may be Istanbul's most overlooked tourist attraction, but it is also one of its best. Exploring the beautiful city by boat will add a new dimension to the popular vacation destination. A private Bosphorus cruise will provide you with an unforgettable experience at a reasonable price.

The most beautiful view of the cityscape at the Bosphorus is at the point where the Black Sea meets the Mediterranean Sea, guarded by the tall Rumeli fortress and with a distant view of the Galata Bridge. Take a ferry to the world's most important and beautiful geographical location. The views are breathtaking.

8. Spectate the Architecture of Dolmabahce Palace

When visiting Istanbul, the Dolmabahçe Palace is a must-see, but you need a ticket to enter. This opulent building was used as an administrative headquarters during the Ottoman Empire and is lavishly decorated with gold, crystals, and handmade silk carpets. Its distinctive design is a crowd-pleaser!

This palace's baroque, ottoman, and neoclassical architecture was once the Ottoman Empire's administrative center. There are approximately 46 halls and 285 rooms in the palace. This palace's interiors are as magnificent as its architecture. Visitors to this palace can see gold-adorned ceilings, Iznik tiles, the world's largest crystal chandelier in the Bohemian style, and many other elements.

Conclusion

Although Ankara is the country's capital, Istanbul is the true beating heart of Turkey. It is Turkey's most populous city and the country's most popular tourist destination. Istanbul is often referred to as a bridge between the two continents due to its location on both the European and Asian sides of the Bosphorus.

Travelers from around the world return to Istanbul to rediscover and discover new things to do due to its long history of diverse influences on its future.