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Opens at 09:001. Hagia Sophia
9.72.8k Reviews
based on 45.5k reviews2025 Global 100 – Best Things to Do
M43***18Sant Sophia Cathedral Attraction Review Historical and Cultural Value Architectural Status : Sant Sophia Cathedral (Hagia Sophia) is a representative work of Byzantine architecture, combining Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman elements, with an iconic dome, once one of the largest churches in the medieval world 12. Religious Change : Originally an Orthodox Cathedral (537), it was changed to a mosque after 1453, became a museum in 1935, and it was restored to a mosque again in 2020, but it is still open to visit, symbolizing the blend of culture and historical change. Naming origin : Bulgaria's capital Sofia is named for the church, its history dates back to the 6th century AD, and the existing main hall and towers were built during the Byzantine period. Architectural characteristics and interior landscape appearance : Typical mosque domes and minarets, there are clean wash pavilions and carved stone pillars at the entrance 2. Central Hall : Multicolor marble floor and wall, dome retain Byzantine murals, hanging giant Arabic gold disc (written name) 2. Special area : Emperor Gate : The front hall is 9 doors, and the middle door is only for the emperor to use 2. Second Floor Corridor : Spiral passage is accessible, once a noble worship area 2. Cave : Additional fees are required to visit, including early Christian mosaic decoration and ancient tomb 3. Tourist experience and evaluation Highlights : The building is magnificent, the dome and murals are shocking, and the lighting effect at night is excellent 12. The cultural and historical heritage is deep, suitable for visiting 13 after understanding the background in advance. Insufficient : During the repair period, it may appear messy, and the ticket price is high 1. The tourists are dense and the commercialization is heavy. Some areas will be charged an additional fee 13. Practical information location : Istanbul, Turkey, across the street from the Blue Mosque 2. Suggestion : Combining historical guides or audio explanations, you can understand its artistic and religious significance in more depth. As a world heritage site, the Cathedral of Saint Sophia is a cultural landmark that cannot be missed from the perspective of architecture, history and religion, but it is necessary to weigh the experience of tourists and personal interests.Istanbul1.3km from BeyazitFrom £25.64
2. Historic Areas of Istanbul
9.7149 Reviewsbased on 10.7k reviews
NOHA AbdelhadeyIstanbul has many historical places to visit Dolmapahçe, galata Tower, Blue Mosque 🕌 💙, aya Sofia, Sultan ahmet, and so onIstanbul1.3km from BeyazitFree entry
Opens at 09:003. Basilica Cistern
9.2733 Reviews
based on 32.4k reviews2025 Asia 100 – Best Things to DoM43***18Comprehensive review of Istanbul Groundwater Palace attractions History and architectural characteristics scale and function : Groundwater Palace (Yerebatan Sarn c) is a giant underground reservoir built during the Byzantine period (6th century), 140 meters long and 70 meters wide, the area is equivalent to a standard football field, and the water storage volume reaches 80,000-100,000 tons. It has supplied water to the palace and surrounding areas, and has military defense functions. 336 stone pillars with 9 meters high support vaults, and the columns are mostly carried from the temples in Anatolia. The pillars are carved in different styles (such as Corinthian and Doric), showing the wisdom of ancient architecture. Mystery Element : Tear Column : Stone columns with teardrops, it is rumored to commemorate the slaves who died in the construction. Medusa avatar : The head of the snake haired female demon on the bottom of the pool is inverted and placed on the side. The source is a mystery, which may be a symbol of avoiding evil or deterring enemies. 23. Cultural influence : Many movies (such as "007 Big Breaking Crisis" "Secret Service Micheng" "Dante Password") are filmed here, adding its mysterious color 12. Tour experience Highlights : The underground space is magnificent and shocking, and the lighting and water reflection create a dreamy atmosphere, suitable for photography and history lovers 23. Adjacent to the Hagia Sophia Cathedral and the Blue Mosque, you can visit 12 in series. Dispute Point : Ticket price : The fare for foreign tourists is about 130 yuan, far higher than the price of local residents (about 1/5), and the price/performance ratio is questioned 4. Tour duration : The whole journey is about 15 minutes. Some tourists think the content is thin, and only the lighting effect and a small number of relics support 4. Entrance hidden : Entrance logo is not obvious, you need to patiently find 24. Suggest Recommended crowd : Tourists interested in historical, architectural or movie shooting locations; if time is sufficient and budget allows, you can plan in combination with surrounding attractions 12. Avoid pit prompt : Inquire about fare policy in advance to reduce psychological expectations; choose to avoid crowds during off-peak hours 4. Summary : The underground palace is a unique "underground miracle" in Istanbul. Its historical value and mystery are worth exploring, but it is necessary to weigh the cost of tickets and personal interests.Istanbul1.1km from BeyazitFrom £27.69
Opens at 09:004. Topkapi Palace
8.7625 Reviews2025 Asia 100 – Best Things to DoM43***18Topkapa Palace (Topkapi Palace) as an iconic attraction in Istanbul, it combines the glorious history and art essence of the Ottoman Empire. The following comprehensive reviews are for reference: Historical and Cultural Value Topkapa Palace is the power center of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 500 years (1465-1853 years), I have lived in 25 Sudan, and now it is the largest museum in Turkey. It has a collection of countless national treasures, Islamic relics and royal treasures. It is called the "Forbidden City of the Ottoman Empire". It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Its complex contains four courtyards, a harem, See the Great Hall, etc., showing the perfect integration of Islam and Ottoman style 13. Core highlights Treasures and exhibitions Jewelry Exhibition Hall : displaying gem-encrusted knife, tableware, scriptures, etc., especially famous for a giant diamond and "beds full of gems", Described by tourists as "unmanned" 2. religious holy things : Collect the original Islamic calligraphy manuscripts, Sudanese relics, etc. The shrine is an important visitation point 13. architectural details : such as the marble-inlaid colonnade of the Baghdad Palace, the inner palace courtyard of the Gate of the Auspicious Gate, Very artistic value 3. landscape advantage Palace is located in the Bosphorus Strait Highland, overlooking the Marmara Sea, Golden Cape Bay and the Asian region on the other side. The garden has a wide view and excellent photos 34. Tourist experience Tickets and time : Tickets 1,500 lira (about 345 yuan), need to be reserved for at least 3 hours to visit, closed on Tuesday. Free Chinese interpreters need to mortgage passport or $100 2. Tourist Evaluation : Positive: Most tourists think it is "superb", the exhibits are rich such as "Alibaba Treasure", and the architecture and strait scenery are shocking 24. Negative: The ticket price is high (compared to the Forbidden City), and some facilities such as the interpreter have typos 2. Practical Suggestion Tour route : Enter from the Emperor's Gate (first courtyard), visit the Chongjing Gate (second courtyard), the Gate of Jizhao (third courtyard) and the Treasure Hall in turn, and finally go to the Baghdad Palace to enjoy the sea view 3. Surrounding facilities : There are Western restaurants (such as net red NUSR-ET steakhouse) and shopping points nearby, but you need to pay attention to the long straight line distance 4. Summarize Topkapa Palace is a paradise for history lovers and photographers. Despite the expensive tickets, its unparalleled treasures and strait landscape are still worth a special visit. It is recommended to avoid Tuesday and reserve half a day for a deep tour 12.Istanbul1.6km from BeyazitFrom £48.74
5. The Blue Mosque
8.61.9k Reviewsbased on 35.5k reviews2025 Global 100 – Night AttractionsM43***18Comprehensive review of Blue Mosque attractions
Architectural and historical value
Magnificent appearance: The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is famous for its six 43-meter-high minarets and a giant dome with a diameter of 27.5 meters. It is a masterpiece of Islamic classical architecture and is known as "one of the ten wonders of the world"12.
Interior decoration: The walls of the mosque are covered with blue and white Iznik tiles, matched with Arabic calligraphy and geometric patterns. The sun shines through the colored glass to form a dreamy light and shadow, which is full of artistic and religious atmosphere12.
Visiting experience
Advantages: Cultural symbol: As a landmark of Istanbul, it combines Byzantine and Islamic culture and is suitable for in-depth experience of Turkish history2.
Off-peak suggestion: Avoid the five daily prayer times (such as afternoon), when there are fewer tourists3.
Disadvantages: Large flow of people: Long queues are required during popular hours, and the crowds inside affect taking pictures13.
Hygiene issues: You need to take off your shoes to enter. The carpet may have a peculiar smell on rainy or humid days. It is recommended to bring your own disposable socks13. Notes
Dress requirements: Women need to wear headscarves, and blue robes are provided in the mosque (more popular than the pink mosque)34.
Photography suggestions: The fountain square can take panoramic photos, but the interior is limited by light and crowds, so you need to be patient to find the angle34.
Comparison with other mosques
Comparison with the Blue Mosque in Putrajaya: The Turkish version is larger and has a longer history, but there are fewer tourists in Putrajaya and it is more suitable for taking pictures4.
Tourist evaluation is divided: Some people think it is seriously commercialized (such as dense tour groups), but some people praise its faith and architectural beauty12.
Recommendation index: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Suitable for people: History enthusiasts, photography players, it is recommended to avoid the rainy season and peak hours12.Istanbul1.1km from BeyazitFree entry
Opens at 08:306. Galata Tower
8.3391 Reviewsbased on 10.2k reviewsNo.6 of Best Things to Do in Istanbul
飞入银河Galada Stone Tower Review ｜ Istanbul must punch in the romantic landmark, worth crying! 💫 Is it worth going? Yu Chong is over! Recommended index: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sisters, promise me! When you come to Istanbul, you must rush to the Galada Stone Tower! This is not only a fairy seat overlooking the city, but also a great landmark with history and romance! Whether it is a 360° panoramic view of the day, or the Golden Horn Bay under the sunset, or even the magical night view after the night lights are on, you can brush the circle of friends in minutes! Key points: although there are too many people in line (especially during sunset time!), the shock after the summit is definitely worth it! The highlight is the big reveal - why must you go? 1. God's perspective of the intersection of Eurasia 🌍 Standing on the top of the 9-story tower, Bosphorus Strait, Golden Horn Bay, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Cathedral... Istanbul's "Old European City" and "New Asian City" have a panoramic view! Especially at dusk, the sunset dyes the sea into the orange sea, and every shot is a movie! (Remember to bring a wide-angle lens!) 2. The millennium-old time and space shuttle 🏰 This tower has gone through thousands of years from the Byzantine lighthouse to the Genoa fortress, and then to the Ottoman prison! There is also a small exhibition inside the tower, telling how it changed from a wooden tower to a stone tower, and even witnessing the "first flight" of humans - someone glided 6 kilometers from the tower to the Asian area in the 17th century, super cool! 3. Nightlife ceiling 🍸 Do you think it's just a view? The restaurant and nightclub at the top of the tower are hidden games! While eating Turkish barbecue, watching belly dance performances, with the night view of the Strait, the atmosphere is full! It is recommended to climb the tower in the evening, a get sunset + night view double experience ～ 4. The perfect end of Independence Street 🛍️ The tower is located at the end of Independence Street, which is super fire. After visiting the Chao brand store and the retro tram, you can punch in on the way! The surrounding alleys are full of literary cafes and treasure shops. Take pictures and Taoshouxin! - Wear a suggestion: wear a light-colored skirt! The skirt is flying when the wind is strong, and the quaint background of the stone tower is super-matched ～👗 - Photo seat: The tower top terrace is clockwise around, and there are surprises at every angle! The Blue Mosque and the Strait Bridge must be photographed! 🌉 - Avoid the pit guide: Don't wear high heels! The sloped stone road in front of the tower is super difficult to walk, and there is a small fan when queuing (squeezing people in summer) - Ticket guide: It is more cost-effective to buy a joint ticket in advance (Istanbul Museum Pass), buy about 39 euros in a single, and the official website can be booked ～ Summary: Galada Stone Tower is the soul landmark of Istanbul, historical control, Photography parties and romantic stars can't resist! Promise me, put it on the must-go list, feel the wonder of "left-hand Europe, right-hand Asia"! 💙 📍 Address: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi, Beyo ğlu 🕒 Time: 8:30-22:00 (peak season may be extended) 🚇 Transportation: light rail T1 to Karakoy Station, walk uphill for 10 minutes (just practice hips!)Istanbul2.1km from BeyazitFrom £29.63
Opens at 09:007. Dolmabahce Palace
8.2392 Reviewsbased on 8.3k reviewsNo.7 of Best Things to Do in Istanbul
320***24The ticket booking system is very convenient. You can enter by simply showing your mobile phone and scanning the QR code. You can also enter another palace by scanning the QR code. The experience is very good. You don’t have to worry about losing the paper ticket, and you don’t have to follow anyone. It’s very free.Istanbul4.6km from BeyazitFrom £34.76
8. Grand Bazaar
8.0518 Reviews
based on 12.6k reviewsNo.8 of Best Things to Do in Istanbul
LisliskaOne of the most beautiful and attractive East bazaars. There are many confectionary, spices, teas and things. Must visitIstanbul390m from BeyazitFree entry
Opens at 09:009. Istanbul Archaeological Museums
7.1159 Reviewsbased on 4.6k reviewsNo.9 of Best Things to Do in Istanbul
_We***60Istanbul Archaeology Museum is the most important archaeological museum in Turkey and one of the most outstanding in the world. It is located in the outer courtyard of Topkapi Palace and houses more than 1 million artifacts, covering civilizations from Mesopotamia, Egypt, Anatolia, Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome to Byzantium and Ottoman Empire. It is almost zero distance from the remains of ancient civilizations and can be called a "time container". #One of my favorite museumsIstanbul1.5km from BeyazitFrom £17.24
10. Istiklal Avenue
7.0387 Reviewsbased on 6.0k reviewsNo.10 of Best Things to Do in Istanbul
携Cheng携ChengIstanbul Riverside
I said before that the Grand Bazaar is the big alley in Istanbul, and Istiklal Street is the Istanbul Riverside.
On the first day, we went to Taksim Square with a group tour, and only had one hour to go shopping. Of course, we didn't go shopping enough, so we arranged our time here for the second day's free travel.
We took the bus from the hotel to this area (it is said that the taxi price in Istanbul is expensive and there is traffic jam, because the traffic jam will be more expensive, so we chose to take the bus). We first went to the Rainbow Stairs, and then walked through a residential area to the nearby Carrefour. In the middle, we also went into a drugstore. The owner was very talkative and said that he had been to many places in China, and even to Tianjin and Hohhot. He was very kind. It was a mistake to go to Carrefour first. I bought a lot of things, which caused us to carry these things behind me.
After buying snacks and souvenirs, we came to Istiklal Street, which may be the busiest pedestrian street in Istanbul. There were a lot of people on the day we went. It can be seen that not only foreign tourists came to visit, but also locals came to shop. There are large and small shopping malls, restaurants, jewelry stores, souvenir shops, and clothing stores on the street. The types of shops are very complete. We went to Pandora, Mado, St. Anthony's Church, a baked potato shop, a regular restaurant barbecue shop, a street stall barbecue shop, a candy store, many clothing stores, Watsons, two shopping malls... I don't know if I have said it all. I walked around for a whole day and went back when it was dark. I bought a lot of things and ate local special barbecue. Although I spent the whole day on this street and didn't go anywhere else, there are really a lot of food, drinks and shopping on this street. Although it's a bit tiring, I had a great time. The food is much better when traveling independently than when traveling with a group.Istanbul3km from BeyazitFree entry
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