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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.Istanbul1.8km from KarakoyFrom £24.42
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 onIstanbul1.9km from KarakoyFree 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 Basilica Cistern
History and architectural features
Scale and function:
The Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı) is a giant underground reservoir built in the Byzantine period (6th century). It is 140 meters long and 70 meters wide, with an area equivalent to a standard football field. It has a water storage capacity of 80,000-100,000 tons. It once supplied water to the palace and surrounding areas and had military defense functions12.
336 9-meter-high stone columns support the vault. Most of the columns were transported from temples in Anatolia. The capitals are carved in different styles (such as Corinthian and Doric), showing the wisdom of ancient architecture23.
Mysterious elements:
Tear column: A stone column engraved with teardrop patterns, which is said to commemorate the slaves who died during the construction23.
Medusa head: The head of the Gorgon inverted and sideways at the bottom of the pool, the origin of which is a mystery, may be a symbol of warding off evil or deterring the enemy23. Cultural influence:
Many movies (such as "Skyfall", "The Spy Who Came to the City", and "The Dante Code") were filmed here, adding to its mysterious color12.
Visiting experience
Highlights:
The underground space is magnificent and shocking, and the lights and water reflections create a dreamy atmosphere, suitable for photography and history enthusiasts23.
It is adjacent to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, and can be visited in series12.
Controversial points:
Ticket price: The ticket price for foreign tourists is about 130 yuan, which is much higher than that for local residents (about 1/5 of the price), and the cost-effectiveness is questioned4.
Visiting time: The whole journey takes about 15 minutes. Some tourists think that the content is thin and only supported by lighting effects and a small number of relics4.
Hidden entrance: The entrance sign is not obvious, and you need to be patient to find it24.
Suggestions
Recommended crowd: Tourists who are interested in history, architecture or movie locations; if there is plenty of time and the budget allows, you can plan it in combination with surrounding attractions12. Tips for avoiding pitfalls: Check the ticket price policy in advance to lower your psychological expectations; choose non-peak hours to avoid crowds4.
Summary: The Basilica Cistern is Istanbul's unique "underground miracle". Its historical value and mystery are worth exploring, but you need to weigh the ticket cost against your personal interests12.Istanbul1.8km from KarakoyFrom £27.73
Opens at 09:004. 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.Istanbul1.5km from KarakoyFrom £48.72
5. The Blue Mosque
8.61.9k Reviewsbased on 35.5k reviews2025 Global 100 – Night AttractionsM43***18Blue Mosque Attractions Comprehensive Review Building and Historical Value Majestic Appearance : The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is famous for six 43-meter-high minarets and giant domes with diameters of 27.5 meters. It is a masterpiece of Islamic classical architecture. Known as "one of the ten wonders of the world" 12. Internal decoration : The walls of the temple are covered with blue and white Iznik tiles, with Arabic calligraphy and geometric patterns, and the sun forms dreamy light and shadow through stained glass, which is very artistic and religious atmosphere 12. Tour Experience Advantages : Cultural Symbol: As a landmark in Istanbul, it integrates Byzantine and Islamic culture, suitable for in-depth experience of Turkish history. Staggered peak suggestion: avoid five worship times a day (such as afternoon), fewer tourists 3. Disadvantages: Large flow of people : Hot periods need to queue for a long time, and internal congestion affects taking pictures 13. Health problems : You need to take off your shoes to enter. The carpet may have a smell when it is rainy or wet. It is recommended to bring your own disposable socks 13. Notes Dressing requirements : Women need to pack a headscarf, blue robes are provided in the temple (more popular than pink mosques) 34. Photo suggestion : Fountain Square can take a panoramic view, the interior is limited by light and crowds, you need to patiently find the angle 34. Compared with other mosques and the Blue Mosque of Putrajaya : The Turkish version is larger and has a longer history, but Putrajaya has fewer tourists and is more suitable for taking pictures 4. Tourist evaluation differentiation : Some people think that its commercialization is serious (such as dense tourist groups), but others praise its faith and the beauty of architecture. Recommended Index : ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) Suitable for crowds : History lovers, photography players, it is recommended to avoid the rainy season and peak hours 12.Istanbul2.2km from KarakoyFree 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!)Istanbul123m from KarakoyFrom £29.67
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.Istanbul2.7km from KarakoyFrom £34.81
Opens at 08:308. 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 visitIstanbul1.7km from KarakoyFree 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 KarakoyFrom £17.23
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.Istanbul1km from KarakoyFree entry
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