Ready for your trip to Istanbul? With a city so rich in history and culture, you may not be quite as ready as you think. If you’re looking to truly make the most of your stay, you will need to narrow down a list of sights and set a schedule before you set foot in our city as it’s easy to side tracked. Struggling to pick from our never ending list? We’ve got you.
Blue Mosque
With 20, 000 striking blue tiles lining its high ceilings, two hundred and sixty windows, six minarets and a main dome with eight secondary domes, Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultanahmet Mosque is Islamic architecture at its best.
Hagia Sophia
Dubbed by many as the eighth wonder of the world, Hagia Sophia is one of the finest examples of Byzantine architecture still around. The building once functioned as a cathedral and mosque, and today it is one of the most visited museums worldwide.
Basilica Cistern
The largest of cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul, the Basilica has 336 marble columns and two Medusa heads – one upside down and the other sideways. Out of sight, out of mind for centuries, the building has been renovated and is the perfect attraction for the quirky at heart.
Topkapi Palace
For approximately 400 years, Topkapi Palace was the seat of the Ottoman Empire and the home of generations of sultans. With beautiful views of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Marmara Sea, this palace is definitely worth a visit.
Grand Bazaar
Ready to shop till you drop? One of the largest and oldest undercover markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar has 60 covered streets and 4,000 plus shops. Find anything and everything from jewelry, clothing and handbags to antiques, ceramics and modern items.
Süleymaniye Mosque
The largest and most extraordinary of Istanbul mosques, Süleymaniye was designed by Ottoman Empire’s top architect Mirmar Sinan for Suleiman the Magnificent. The mosque was recently restored and overlooks the Golden Horn and Bosphorus.
Galata Tower
The tower was first built in the year 507 by Byzantium Emperor Anastasius and later rebuilt by Genoese colonizers in the 14th century. With a breathtaking panorama of the city, tourists can kick back and enjoy the restaurant and café at the very top.
Chora Church
Perhaps the least “touristy” of the lot, Chora Church hides behind the walls of Constantinople and is a fine example of Byzantine architecture. From its walls and ceilings featuring mosaics and frescoes, the Church turned Ottoman mosque turned modern museum is a top pick.
Archaeological Museum
Are you a bit of a history buff? Three archeological museums – Archaeological Museum, Museum of the Ancient Orient and Museum of Islamic art: all in one! Can’t beat that. Don’t miss the Alexander Sarcophagus!
Kumkapi Fish Market
Or maybe you’re a seafood lover? The biggest fishing port in Istanbul, this place is the go to for fresh and seasonal fish caught from the Bosphorus, the Black Sea and the Marmara Sea. Whatever you do, don’t leave here before trying the fish sandwiches.
Contact Us
Stay just a few kilometers away from attractions listed above! We’re located right in the heart of Old City Istanbul and offer our customers affordable rates even throughout the peak season. Contact us and book your stay with Hotel Büyük Keban today.
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