Few places compare to the vibrant, cosmopolitan city of Istanbul, whose enormous size straddles both Europe and Asia, forming a bridge between western and eastern cultures. Resting upon the natural harbor of the Golden Horn, the skyline of the once-Constantinople is pierced with minarets and ancient monuments that embody centuries of history. While it is brimming with historical landmarks and colorful markets, modern Istanbul is also well represented through its contemporary art scene, European-style café culture, world-class dining venues.
Things to do and places to visit in Istanbul
Istanbul is teeming with attractions and landmarks from historic sights and unique cuisine to lively markets and unmistakable culture. It is a thriving city, with a myriad of things to do that skillfully manage to blend every aspect of both the contemporary and the historical world.
On a city break in Istanbul be sure to:
Visit a hammam, a traditional Turkish bath, whose origins date back to Roman times.
Marvel at the Hagia Sophia, Süleymaniye Mosque and Blue Mosque, Istanbul's most spectacular monuments that dominate the skyline.
Explore the Topkapi Palace Museum, one of Istanbul's most visited museums, home to over 80,000 artifacts.
Walk through the Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel built in the 4th century.
Be dazzled by the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets.
Go shopping for exotic products and Turkish delights in the Spice Bazaar.
Cross the bridge connecting Europe and Asia against the backdrop of the Bosphorus, or take a Bosphorus cruise.
Taste the diversity and flavor of Turkish cuisine.
Admire panoramas of the city from the Galata Tower.
Walk through Taksim Square, the city's dynamic square that never sleeps.
