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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.Istanbul639m from SirkeciFrom £25.31
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 onIstanbul644m from SirkeciFree entry
3. Basilica Cistern
9.2737 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.Istanbul625m from SirkeciFrom £27.52
4. 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.Istanbul442m from SirkeciFrom £48.11
5. The Blue Mosque
8.51.9k Reviewsbased on 35.5k reviews2025 Global 100 – Night Attractions
Lina.D🕌 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.Istanbul958m from SirkeciFree entry
6. Galata Tower
8.3393 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!)Istanbul1.3km from SirkeciFrom £29.46
Closes at 17:007. 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.Istanbul3.4km from SirkeciFrom £34.56
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 visitIstanbul885m from SirkeciFree entry
9. Istanbul Archaeological Museums
7.1159 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 museumsIstanbul402m from SirkeciFrom £17.01
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.Istanbul2.2km from SirkeciFree entry
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