In this post I will share the places and monuments that I would like to see again the next time I visit the European part of Istanbul. Which does not mean they are the most beautiful, which is already known to depend on the eyes of the beholder.
This may seem obvious, but recommending what places to visit in a city as impressive and vast as Istanbul is really complicated.
In total I will share 3 post about Istanbul:
- Trip to Turkey # 1 Sutanahmet
- Trip to Turkey # 2 Istanbul (European area)
- Trip to Turkey # 3 Istanbul (Asian area)
Galata Tower
Built in 1348, the Galata Tower, with its 60 meters, is the tallest building in the homonymous neighborhood. Therefore it is an ideal option to enjoy spectacular views of Istanbul.
gif by @jduarte
Near the current tower there was another "Galata tower" that was destroyed during the Sack of Constantinople in 1204. This fact leads to confusion and you may read in some other blog that Galata tower is one of the oldest towers in the world, but it is not like that. Such a pity.
From time to time it's worth traveling with a tripod
Another great idea is to have a coffee/tea in one of the terraces located on the rooftops
Views from the Galata Tower
Tip: If you want the visit to the tower to be totally unforgettable, make it coincide with one of the prayer calls.
Basilica Cistern
Located very close to the Saint Sophia Cathedral , the Cisterna Basilica is a different place, worth visiting and even has a romantic atmosphere. However, we must bear in mind that the most usual thing is that you are not the only one who is going to take advantage of the visit to the **Santa Sophia Cathedral** to see it, so do not be surprised if you end up standing in line. If you want to avoid it, it is advisable to avoid the busiest hours (before 12 or after 16, according to Google). The attraction consists of a huge rectangular structure, surrounded by 336 columns, which hold a ceiling similar to that of a cathedral. This aspect explains why the place is also known as the "Submerged Palace". Built at the beginning of the 6th century to store and provide drinking water to the city, it fell into disuse at the end of the 14th century, when the Ottomans improved the water supply system.
The Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is one of the oldest markets in the world and the best-known attraction in the city. In its interior there are 58 "streets", some 4000 stores and hundreds of sellers ready for the second national sport after the Turkish fight: the bargaining. In summary the Grand Bazaar is both the dream come true of some and a nightmare for others (for example for me). But yes, I think it is a "must see".
Keep in mind that the Grand Bazar is one of the most visited attractions in the world and it is very busy at any time . In fact, if you visit Istanbul traveling on a cruise ship, in the Grand Bazar you'll even meet the boat's cook.
The Egyptian Market or Spice Bazaar
About 10 minutes from the Grand Bazaar, the Egyptian Bazaar it is in my opinion more authentic and a better place to take a walk. It is an ideal market to buy typical products at a good price (after bargaining of course).
In this colorful and aromatic market you will meet more autochthonous buyers than in the Gran Bazar.
Video in ▶ ️ DTube:
Suleymaniye Mosque
It is not known exactly how many mosques there are in Istanbul. There are those who calculate that 3000. Therefore, you will have to spend a little time if you want to see all of them, something that I hope is not your intention. However, many tourists try to visit the most important and spectacular ones. We decided to visit The Blue Mosque and The Mosque of Süleymaniye.
Suleymaniye Mosque
It's worth going to The Suleymaniye Mosque even if it's simply because of its location on a hill that dominates the city.
Suleymaniye Mosque
Other places of interest
Istikla Avenue and Taksim Square.
If you visit Istanbul, you will almost inevitably stroll through Istiklal Avenue, since it is one of the main avenues. At the end of this avenue is Taksim Square. In both places you will find restaurants of all kinds and you will appreciate the "most modern Istanbul".Topkapi Palace. Although many guides propose the Topkapi Palace as one of the city's must-see visits, we decided to leave it for the next trip. In this way we have a good excuse to come back to Istanbul.
This is a post translated from the original post in Spanish with a lot of love. My English is not native, but I try my best and Google algorithms translate better every time. Any correction in this regard is welcome.
Thank you for reading the post, I hope you liked it and you can be useful if you visit Turkey.
If you are preparing the trip and have any questions, do not hesitate to leave a comment.
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