Things to do in Istanbul

A city with a vibrant culture and a long and fascinating history and heritage, Istanbul offers attractions reflecting these characteristics, making it an ideal destination for those who take an interest in how the city developed into what it is today. Ancient markets, mosques and palaces come top of the list of must-sees for Istanbul visitors.

Haghia Sophia

Translating as Church of Divine Wisdom', Haghia Sophia is hailed as the finest example of Byzantine architecture in the world and dates back to the 6th century AD. Its impressive structure caught the eye of Mehmet the Conqueror who, following his capture of the city in 1453, converted it into a mosque. It remained a mosque until the founding of the Turkish Republic, when it was declared a museum. Among the articles of interest inside are the giant circular Ottoman shields with their religious inscribings and the magnificent Byzantine mosaics.

Sultanahmet Camii (Blue Mosque)

Sultanahmet Camii, also known as the Blue Mosque, was built in the early 17th century during the reign of Sultan Ahmet and was an Islamic response to the construction of Haghia Sophia. The mosque is a focal point of Istanbuls Islamic activity and is the only construction of its kind in the city to feature six minarets. A stunning ornate interior features blue Iznik tiles and a spectacular dome which draws visitors eyes to Imperial Loge with its intricate latticework covering. During the summer, as the sun sets, a sound and light show is held in the mosque grounds.

Kapali Carsisi (Grand Bazaar)

The Kapali Carsisi, also known as the Grand Bazaar, is the citys most famous market and has been a part of the citys scenery since the late 15th century. The market still retains many of the same characteristics it did in centuries past and features its original incarnation including its labyrinth of interconnected aisles and its ornately decorated ceiling. These days however, it mainly sells souvenirs and products aimed at tourists, with leather, gold and ceramic goods among the most popular items. Within the market complex, there is also a police station, bureaux de change, mosques and cafs.

Misir Carsisi

Misir Carsisi is the citys traditional spice market which dates back to the 17th century when it was built as an extension to Yeni Camii. While the market originally sold a variety of exotic oils and spices, these days it has added to its collection with stalls vending Turkish delight, dried fruits and other local delicacies. The market is located in a busy commercial area where a variety of shops dealing in local crafts can be found.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was originally constructed to serve both as a seat of government and as a summer residence for state members. In its heyday in the 16th century, it was home to members of the military, the state and various VIPs and their harems. It was abandoned in favour of Dolmabahe Palace in 1855, although many of its interior decorations were left behind and are still evident today. Chinese ceramics, jewels, silk robes and items from the armoury give visitors an insight into the decadence enjoyed by the Ottomans at the height of their reign.

Museums

Visiting Istanbul is a highly cultural experience in itself; however, those looking for specific and focused approaches to aspects of culture, history and heritage will find a variety of museums on hand covering a selection of relevant topics. Among the highlights is the Archaeological Museum featuring around 15,000 objects hailing from Ancient Mesopotamia, pre-Greek Anatolia, Assyrian, Acadian, Sumerian, Ancient Egyptian, Babylonian and pre-Islamic Arabic culture.

Also worthy of mention is the Fine Arts Museum with its impressive collection of works by Turkish and international artists in media such as painting and sculpture. The City Museum, Divan Literature Museum, Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art and the Ottoman Bank Museum are among the many other museum facilities on offer in Istanbul.