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Istanbul : the majestic gateway to the East

Istanbul : the majestic gateway to the east to discover

Dr. Levent Acar
March 31, 2025•Last modified on April 3, 2025•Reading time 9 minutes and 1658 words.

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, with a population of over 15 million—nearly three times that of Ankara, the country's capital!

Formerly known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, Istanbul was successively the capital of the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and the Ottoman Empire. Today, it attracts visitors from around the world with its rich historical, architectural, and cultural heritage.

Moreover, Istanbul uniquely straddles both Europe and Asia. It is a one-of-a-kind city, shaped by a blend of Western and Eastern cultures.

Planning to visit the "Sublime Porte" on your trip? From history and religious architecture to gastronomy, there is so much to discover in Istanbul! Follow our guide to the must-see attractions to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Must-see attractions in Istanbul

The Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks. It stands out for its unique architecture, a fusion of a Christian church and a mosque. Built in the 6th century by Christians, the Hagia Sophia was later converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in the 15th century. To uncover the secrets of its construction and history, we recommend taking a one-hour guided tour inside the monument.

Topkapi Palace

Istanbul boasts several palaces, but the Topkapi Palace is the most essential to visit. It served as the seat of power and the primary residence of the sultan from the 15th to the 19th century. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this historical monument is absolutely stunning, with its lavishly decorated pavilions, courtyards, gardens, kiosks, harem, and treasury. Plan at least half a day for your visit. Expect long queues, especially if you wish to see the treasury room, one of the palace’s most popular attractions.

The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul

The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is the largest covered market in the world! It houses numerous stalls where you can buy spices, jewelry, carpets, lamps, and souvenirs. The Grand Bazaar is frequently visited by locals, making it possible to find authentic products. However, some stalls also charge inflated prices due to the market's tourist appeal. We recommend comparing prices and negotiating before making a purchase—bargaining is a very common practice in Istanbul.

/></figure> <h3 >Galata Tower and the Beyoglu District</h3> <p>The <strong>Galata Tower</strong> is the best place to enjoy a <strong>panoramic view of Istanbul</strong>. It’s best to visit on a clear and sunny day if possible. The Galata Tower is located in the charming <strong>Beyoglu district</strong>, the most European part of Istanbul. Here, you will find a variety of trendy cafés, vintage boutiques, and art galleries. It is considered Istanbul’s bohemian quarter.</p> <h3 >The Balat District</h3> <p>A must-visit for photographers and Instagrammers, <strong>the Balat district</strong> stands out with its colorful facades. It also has an interesting history, as it was once the city’s Jewish quarter.</p> <h3 >The Blue Mosque</h3> <p>Though not as famous as the Hagia Sophia, the <strong>Blue Mosque</strong> is just as impressive! This Muslim place of worship was built in the 17th century and is located right across from the Hagia Sophia. As its name suggests, its most distinctive feature is the blue mosaics that cover the inside of its dome. The visit is free, except during prayer times. It’s an absolute must-see during a trip to Istanbul!</p> <h3 >The Süleymaniye Mosque</h3> <p>Less touristy but well worth a visit, the <strong>Süleymaniye Mosque</strong> is an enormous complex that houses not only a place of worship but also a hospital and a school. Built on a hill overlooking Istanbul’s old town, the Süleymaniye Mosque dates back to the 16th century. It was designed by the most renowned Ottoman architect, Mimar Sinan, in honor of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The highlights of the visit include the prayer hall, which is illuminated by 138 windows, and the dome, which rises to a height of 47 meters.</p> <h3 >Dolmabahçe Palace</h3> <p>The <strong>Dolmabahçe Palace</strong> was built in 1856, at a time when the Ottoman Empire was in decline. Sultan Abdülmecid I wanted to project the image of a still-prosperous empire, even though that was far from the reality. To achieve this, he commissioned the construction of this ambitious palace, which cost nearly 35 tons of gold. The visit is well worth it, if only to admire the world's largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, located in the ceremonial hall. It has 750 lamps and weighs nearly 4.5 tons!</p> <h3 >The Bosphorus Strait</h3> <p>The <strong>Bosphorus Strait</strong> divides Istanbul into two parts and also serves as a natural border between the European and Asian continents. To discover Istanbul from a different perspective, we recommend booking a <strong>cruise on the Bosphorus</strong>! This experience not only offers stunning views of Istanbul but also allows you to admire the palaces, towers, and other magnificent buildings lining both sides of the strait. If you want to take a sunset cruise, it is best to book in advance, as it is a very popular activity, especially in summer.</p> <h3 >The Istanbul Archaeology Museum</h3> <p>If you want to learn more about Istanbul’s history, visit the Archaeology Museum. It houses numerous artifacts that are key testimonies to the city’s long, rich, and eventful past. For example, you can admire many richly decorated sarcophagi, including that of Alexander the Great, as well as a model of the Trojan Horse. The building itself is magnificent, featuring neoclassical architecture.</p> <h3 >The Chora Church</h3> <p>The <strong>Chora Church</strong> is not frequently visited by tourists, but it is well worth a stop. Inside, you will find impressive frescoes and mosaics depicting the history of Christianity in Istanbul (formerly Byzantium). These mosaics are considered among the most significant Christian artworks in the world!</p> <h3 >The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts</h3> <p>Located in a former palace, the <strong>Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts</strong> may not impress with its architecture, but its collection is definitely worth a visit! It holds over 40,000 works that trace the history of the Islamic world and provide insight into the daily life of Turks in the 19th century. If you have time in Istanbul, don’t hesitate to explore this museum.</p> <h3 >The Kadiköy District</h3> <p>On the Asian side, the <strong>Kadiköy district</strong> is both colorful and lively. It is home to numerous cafés and markets, offering an authentic atmosphere that blends tradition with modernity. Less frequented by tourists, this district is the perfect place to experience the city’s local vibe, wander among residents, and feel the cosmopolitan nature of Istanbul.</p> <p>This is also the ideal spot to sample local culinary specialties, as the area is full of great food spots. Try the local street food, such as köfte or pide, or sit down at a restaurant to taste specialties like manti, güveç, ezogelin, or pirzola. If you have a sweet tooth, enjoy a cup of tea with a Turkish dessert like baklava or katmer.</p> <h3 >Turkish Baths</h3> <p>During your stay, don’t miss the opportunity to book <strong>a hammam session in a Turkish bath</strong>! It’s a must-do experience in Istanbul and an excellent way to relax at the end of the day after exploring the city on foot.</p> <h3 >The Whirling Dervishes Ceremony</h3> <p>If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, attend a <strong>whirling dervishes ceremony</strong>. This is a Sufi religious ritual that, to an outsider, appears as a mesmerizing dance. This breathtaking experience is something you absolutely must witness during your stay in Istanbul!</p> <h2 >Exploring Istanbul : FAQ</h2> <h3 >How many days do you need to visit Istanbul ?</h3> <p><strong>You need 3 to 4 days to visit Istanbul</strong> and see all the must-see attractions without rushing.</p> <h3 >When is the best time to visit Istanbul ?</h3> <p>Istanbul has good weather year-round. <strong>The best time to enjoy the city is in summer, between May and September</strong>. The weather is dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. However, this is also peak tourist season.</p> <p>If you prefer to travel off-season to avoid crowds and get better prices, opt for spring (March and April) or autumn (October and November). In April, you can also attend the International Tulip Festival!</p> <h3 >Do you need a visa to visit Istanbul ?</h3> <p>For a tourist stay of less than 90 days, <strong>no visa is required to visit Istanbul</strong> with a French passport.</p> <h3 >What is the official language in Istanbul ?</h3> <p><strong>The official language in Istanbul is Turkish</strong>. However, you can also use English or Spanish to communicate.</p> <h3 >What is the official currency in Istanbul ?</h3> <p><strong>The official currency in Istanbul is the Turkish lira</strong>. Most businesses accept credit cards, but we recommend withdrawing cash or exchanging money to avoid issues. You can do this at the airport or at exchange offices in the city. However, withdrawing cash usually offers better exchange rates—check your bank fees beforehand.</p> <h3 >Where to stay in Istanbul ?</h3> <p><strong>The Sultanahmet district is the best place to stay</strong>. It is close to the main attractions and very safe.</p> <h3 >How to get to Istanbul from the airport ?</h3> <p><strong>The best way to get to Istanbul from the airport is to book your transfer in advance</strong>. Be aware that there are two airports in Istanbul. Make sure to check your arrival and departure locations carefully.</p> <p>Good to know: If you purchase the Istanbul Tourist Pass, airport transfers are included. This pass is valid for 1 to 10 days, depending on the package you choose, and costs from €200.</p> <h3 >How to get around Istanbul ?</h3> <p>To get around Istanbul, you can use <strong>the tram, metro, bus, or ferry</strong>. Public transport fares are quite affordable.</p> <h3 >What are the best culinary specialties in Istanbul ?</h3> <p>Here are the must-try dishes during a trip to Istanbul:</p> <ul ><li>Kebab;</li> <li>Meze;</li> <li>Lahmacun;</li> <li>Honey and spice chicken;</li> <li>Stuffed vine leaves;</li> <li>Menemen;</li> </ul> <ul ><li>Turkish coffee;</li> <li>Turkish desserts like baklava…</li> </ul> <h3 >Where to Go Shopping in Istanbul ?</h3> <p><strong>The best place to shop in Istanbul is the Grand Bazaar</strong>. Here are other must-visit shopping spots:</p> <ul ><li>The Spice Bazaar;</li> <li>The Kadıköy Food Market;</li> <li>The Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir Confectionery;</li> <li>The Çukurcuma Antique District;</li> <li>The Sahaflar Carsisi Book Market.</li> </ul> <p>For more

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Dr. Levent Acar

Dr. Levent Acar - Docteur

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