10 Top Things To Do in Istanbul
Istanbul, a city of traditions, culture, mouthwatering food, incredible architecture, and some of the most welcoming and hospitable people. Istanbul, with its 15 million people, is the biggest city in Europe and the bridge between two continents: Europe and Asia, as the city is located on both continents. The city in Turkey is often seen as cosmopolitan, where everyone can be who they want to be. Plan to spend 2 or 3 days with the following things to do in Istanbul.
1. Umbrella Street Istanbul
Karaköy, a charming neighborhood filled with places to eat, have a coffee and enjoy the great atmosphere. The streets are filled with art, and one of those arty spots is the umbrella street of Istanbul. During the weekends and midday, this area is quite famous for a couple of photos and a drink. This is the exact location of the umbrella street.
2. Grand Bazaar
A visit to the Grand Bazaar must be on your list of things to do in Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar is a large indoor shopping area with lots of traditional products like lanterns, rugs, jewelry and so much more. It is easy and fun to get lost here but be sure to follow the signs. If you are planning to buy something, get ready for a long and intense bargain. The bazaar is open from 9 AM to 8 PM and closed every Sunday.
3. Colored Houses (Yerebatan Street)
Time for lunch! It’s a 4-min walk from Topkapi to Yerebatan Street, with houses painted in the most vibrant colors. Different from Balat, this street is busy and filled with hotels and restaurants. Search for Kybele Hotel & Restaurant and have a good lunch is a wildly decorated environment.
4. Topkapi Palace
Topkapi, an enormous former palace (now a museum) for sultans and their families. It hosts four large courtyards with gardens, smaller buildings, a view over the river and a stunning harem (where the female family members lived). The beautifully decorated Topkapi Palace Harem has 300 rooms, 9 Turkish Baths, 2 Mosques, and even a hospital. The harem is located in the second courtyard on the left side.
5. Hagia Sophia
From the Blue Mosque, we already see our next stop; Hagia Sophia. This UNESCO museum belongs to the world’s greatest archaeological achievements. Famous for its grandness and incredible interior. Hagia Sophia is now a mosque and visitors can visit it anytime.
