Istanbul is known as the tourism capital of Turkey, boasting over 40 different tourist sites and landmarks. The city’s historical landmarks, vast green spaces, unique climate, and strategic geographic location make it an exceptional and attractive destination for tourists from around the world.
Key Tourist Attractions in Istanbul:
- Sultanahmet Famous Area in Istanbul:
The Sultanahmet area represents the historical and archaeological face of beautiful Istanbul, with its ancient and diverse treasures. The area is home to various sites, churches, restaurants, gardens, and archaeological museums. Among the famous places in Sultanahmet are:
1- Sultan Ahmed Mosque:
With its six minarets, one of which is made of pure gold, the mosque was completed in 1616 by the architect Mehmed Agha. Standing at 47 meters, the mosque’s walls are adorned with exquisite Islamic decorations and lines bearing Quranic verses, attracting visitors from all around the world.
2 – Eminonu Harbor:
Located on the shores of Eminonu, the area features numerous ferries and a car bridge connecting it to the Beyoglu region. Alongside the bridge, there are seafront seafood grills, and nearby, you’ll find the Suleymaniye Mosque and the famous Egyptian Bazaar, where various nuts, spices, honey, and halva are sold.
3- Topkapi Palace and Museum:
One of the largest palaces in Istanbul, it served as the main residence for Ottoman sultans for over four centuries since 1465.
4- Gulhane Park:
Adjacent to Topkapi Palace, it is one of the largest parks in Istanbul, dating back centuries as an imperial park and considered a significant historical landmark in the Sultanahmet area.
- Ortakoy Area in Istanbul:
Named after the Sultan’s resort, Ortakoy is one of the most beautiful areas in Istanbul, located in the Besiktas district, directly overlooking the enchanting Bosphorus Strait. This area has historically brought together Turks, Greeks, Armenians, and Muslims. Key attractions in Ortakoy include:
1- Ciragan Palace.
2- Ortakoy Mosque.
- Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul:
The magnificent Bosphorus Bridge is one of the most beautiful spots in Istanbul. The Bosphorus Strait connects the Black Sea to the north with the Sea of Marmara to the south, separating the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. The bridge spans 1,510 meters, and visitors can take a ferry ride for a 3-hour journey to see Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and the lush green landscapes.
- Maiden’s Tower in Istanbul:
Located on an island, Maiden’s Tower is one of the most beautiful places in Istanbul, situated 200 meters off the coast of Uskudar in the Bosphorus Strait. With a rich history dating back to the Greek era, the tower stands at about 23 meters, consisting of six floors accessible by circular stairs. Visitors can reach it by boat through the Bosphorus Strait.
- Princes’ Islands in Istanbul:
The Princes’ Islands are located in the Sea of Marmara and consist of a group of small islands with beautiful natural scenery. Comprising four main islands and five smaller ones, the history of these islands dates back to the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. The journey from Istanbul to the islands takes about an hour and a half. There are a group of islands close to the ancient Princes’ islands which are :
- Heybeliada
- Buyukada
- Burgazada
- Kinaliada
- Sedef Island
- Kaşık Island
- Tafşan Island
- Istanbul Aquarium:
Situated in the Florya area near the seaside, the Istanbul Aquarium tops the list of beautiful places in Istanbul. As one of the largest aquatic gardens in Turkey and the Middle East, it features various types of fish and unique marine creatures such as sharks, octopuses, and dolphins. Tourists can visit the aquarium and enjoy dolphin shows through underwater corridors.
- Hagia Sophia Mosque in Istanbul:
Hagia Sophia Mosque is a symbol of the conquest of Constantinople (Istanbul) by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror. After resisting Islamic conquests for several centuries, the conversion of Hagia Sophia into a mosque is a significant event in Turkish Islamic history, attracting millions of tourists annually.
- Camlica Hill in Istanbul:
Camlica Hill, one of Istanbul’s seven hills, is the most famous and highest, also known as Chamlidja. Overlooking most of Istanbul, the hill is adorned with cafes, restaurants, and relaxation spots for tourists and locals alike. Today, it stands as an important tourist landmark and popular retreat for enjoying the breathtaking natural landscapes and panoramic views of Istanbul.
