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Popular Attractions in Istanbul (2025)
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1. Hagia Sophia
9.72.8k Reviews
based on 45.5k reviews2025 Global 100 – Best Things to Do
M43***18Hagia Sophia Scenic Spot Reviews
Historical and Cultural Values Architectural Status : Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, combining Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman elements, with an iconic dome. It was once one of the largest churches in the medieval world 12.
Religious Changes : It was originally an Orthodox cathedral (537), converted into a mosque after 1453, became a museum in 1935, and restored to a mosque again in 2020, but it is still open to the public, symbolizing cultural integration and historical changes 12.
Naming Origin : The Bulgarian capital Sofia is named after this church, which dates back to the 6th century AD. The existing main hall and tower were built in the Byzantine period 3.
Architectural Features and Interior Landscape Appearance : Typical mosque domes and minarets, with ablution pavilions and carved stone columns at the entrance 2.
Central Hall: Multi-colored marble floors and walls, the dome retains Byzantine murals, and a giant Arabic gold plate (with names) is hung 2.
Special Area:
Emperor's Gate: Among the 9 doors in the antechamber, the middle door is only for the emperor 2.
Second Floor Corridor: Reachable through a spiral passage, it was once the worship area for the nobles 2.
Crypt: Additional fee required for visit, including early Christian mosaic decorations and ancient tombs 3.
Tourist Experience and Evaluation Highlights:
The building is magnificent, the dome and murals are shocking, and the lighting effect is excellent at night 12.
The cultural and historical heritage is profound, suitable for visiting after understanding the background in advance 13.
Disadvantages:
It may appear messy during the renovation period, and the ticket price is high 1.
There are dense tourists and heavy commercialization, and some areas require additional charges 13.
Practical Information Location: Istanbul, Turkey, across the street from the Blue Mosque 2. Suggestion: Combined with a historical tour or audio guide, you can have a deeper understanding of its artistic and religious significance13.
As a world heritage site, Hagia Sophia is a cultural landmark that cannot be missed from the perspective of architecture, history and religion, but you need to weigh the visitor experience and personal interests12.Istanbul2.2km from Golden HornFrom £25.44
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 onIstanbul2.2km from Golden HornFree entry
3. Basilica Cistern
9.2737 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.Istanbul2.1km from Golden HornFrom £27.58
4. Topkapi Palace
8.7625 Reviews2025 Asia 100 – Best Things to DoM43***18As an iconic attraction in Istanbul, Topkapi Palace combines the glorious history and artistic essence of the Ottoman Empire. The following comprehensive comments are for reference:
History and Cultural Value
Topkapi Palace was the power center of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 500 years (1465-1853). It was home to 25 sultans. It is now the largest museum in Turkey. It houses countless national treasures, Islamic relics and royal treasures. It can be called the "Forbidden City of the Ottoman Empire"12.
It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Its architectural complex includes four courtyards, a harem, an audience hall, etc., showing the perfect fusion of Islamic and Ottoman styles13.
Core Highlights
Treasures and Exhibitions
Jewelry Exhibition Hall: It displays gem-studded sabres, tableware, scriptures, etc. It is especially famous for a giant diamond and a "bed covered with gems", which is described by tourists as "rich and inhumane"2.
Religious relics: It houses Islamic calligraphy manuscripts, Sultan relics, etc. The Holy Relics Hall is an important sightseeing spot13.
Architectural details: Such as the marble-inlaid colonnade of the Baghdad Palace and the inner palace courtyard of the Gate of Auspicious Omens, which are of great artistic value3.
Scenic advantages
The palace is located on the high ground of the Bosphorus Strait, overlooking the Sea of Marmara, the Golden Horn and the Asian area on the opposite bank. The garden has a wide view and is excellent for taking photos34.
Tourist experience
Tickets and time: Tickets are 1,500 liras (about 345 yuan), and at least 3 hours of visit are required. It is closed on Tuesdays. Free Chinese guides require a passport or $100 to be pledged2.
Tourist evaluation:
Positive: Most tourists think it is "superb", with rich exhibits such as "Alibaba Treasures", and the architecture and strait scenery are shocking24.
Negative: The ticket price is relatively high (compared with the Forbidden City), and some facilities such as the guides have typos2. Practical suggestions
Visiting route: Enter from the Imperial Gate (first courtyard), visit the Gate of Reverence (second courtyard), the Gate of Auspicious Omens (third courtyard) and the Treasure House in turn, and finally go to Baghdad Palace to enjoy the sea view3.
Surrounding facilities: There are Western restaurants (such as the popular NUSR-ET steak house) and shopping spots nearby, but please note that the straight-line distance is far4.
Summary
Topkapi Palace is a paradise for history lovers and photographers. Although the ticket price is expensive, its unparalleled treasures and strait views are still worth a special visit. It is recommended to avoid Tuesday and reserve half a day for an in-depth tour12.Istanbul2km from Golden HornFrom £48.36
5. The Blue Mosque
8.51.9k Reviewsbased on 35.5k reviews2025 Global 100 – Night Attractions
DILINA🕌 Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), Istanbul📍 Address: Sultan Ahmet Mah., Atmeydanı Cd. No:7, Fatih, Istanbul🕰 Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – one hour before sunset (Closed to tourists during prayer times)📝 Review:A must-visit landmark in Istanbul! Famous for its six minarets and beautiful blue İznik tiles inside, the Blue Mosque offers stunning Ottoman architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. Entry is free, but respectful clothing is required.✅ Tips: • Avoid prayer times (especially Friday noon) • Women should bring a scarf to cover hair • Plastic bags are provided for shoes⭐ Why Go?Historic, spiritual, and visually breathtaking — it’s right across from Hagia Sophia and perfect for photos and cultural insight.Istanbul2.3km from Golden HornFree entry
6. Galata Tower
8.3392 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!)Istanbul795m from Golden HornFrom £29.52
7. Dolmabahce Palace
8.2392 Reviewsbased on 8.3k reviewsNo.7 of Best Things to Do in Istanbul
320***24This ticket is very convenient. You can enter by showing your mobile phone and scanning the code. You can enter by scanning the code when you change the palace. The experience is very good. You don't worry about losing the paper ticket, and you don't have to follow who. It is very free.Istanbul3.4km from Golden HornFrom £34.63
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 visitIstanbul1.5km from Golden HornFree entry
9. Istanbul Archaeological Museums
7.0159 Reviewsbased on 4.6k reviewsNo.9 of Best Things to Do in Istanbul
_We***60The Istanbul Archaeological Museum is one of Turkey’s most important and outstanding archaeological museums in the world. It is located in the exterior courtyard of the Topkapa Palace, and has a collection of more than 1 million cultural relics, covering many civilizations from Mesopotamia, Egypt, Anatolia, Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome to Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations, and almost zero distance from the relics of ancient civilizations. A time container. # one of my favorite museumsIstanbul2km from Golden HornFrom £17.10
10. Istiklal Avenue
7.0387 Reviewsbased on 6.0k reviewsNo.10 of Best Things to Do in Istanbul
携Cheng携ChengIstanbul Riverside Road previously said that the Grand Bazaar is the big alley of Istanbul, and the Independence Street is the Istanbul Riverside Road. On the first day, I came to Taksim Square with a group tour and left us only an hour to stroll around. Of course we didn't go shopping enough, so we all set the time here the next day. We took the bus from the hotel to this neighborhood (it is said that Istanbul taxis are expensive and blocked, because the blockage will be more expensive, so we chose to take the bus) We went to the rainbow ladder first, and then walked through a residential area to the nearby Carrefour. In the middle, I also went into a drug store. The boss was very talkative. He said that he had been to many places in China, and he had even been to Tianjin and Hohhot. It was a mistake to go to Carrefour first. I bought a lot of things, which caused us to carry these things behind us. After buying snacks and souvenirs, I came to Independence Street. This street 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 go shopping. There are large and small shopping malls, restaurants, jewelry stores, souvenir shops, clothing stores, and the types of shops are very, very complete. We went to Pandora, mado, St. Anthony Church, baked potatoes, regular restaurant barbecue, street stall barbecue shop, candy shop, many clothing stores, Watsons, two shopping malls... I don’t know if I didn’t say it all, I went shopping for a whole day, it was dark before I went back, I bought a bunch of things, Also ate local specialty barbecue. Although I arranged on this street for a whole day and didn't go to other places, the various eating, drinking and shopping on this street was really rich. Although I was a little tired, I had a good time. Free travel was much better than eating with the group.Istanbul1.5km from Golden HornFree entry
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