TOURISM AND TRIPS
Adventure Awaits in the City
TOPKAPI PALACE
Literally "Cannon-Gate Palace", Topkapı was home to many Ottoman Sultans and their political affiliates as the center from which they directed an empire spanning three continents and 5 seas. Gaze at historic artefacts and imperial treasures, such as the 86 carat "Spoonmaker's Diamond", one of the largest in the world.
GRAND BAZAAR
Wander what is said to be the world's oldest closed mall, discovering authentic souvenirs, luxurious jewelery and exotic sweets to take back home. From the world's most valued carpets that change colour under light to spices you can't find in regular supermarkets, the Grand Bazaar is a "can't miss" trip.
PRINCES' ISLANDS
Three islands off the coast of Istanbul, all accessible by ferry or tender are home to beauty, history, and many a story of this seagoing country. With diverse culture and plenty of natural sights including pristine swimming spots, the islands are a favorite spot for locals to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and go sailing.
SULTANAHMET AREA
Home to the glittering domes of Ayasofya and the Blue Mosque, take a walk through history in the peninsula that was capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Go underground into the Basilica Cistern, the ancient Roman water supply that has been mostly drained overtime. Or stroll the same ground where Byzantine race horses rode through the ruins of the ancient Hippodrome. Within Sultanahmet square, everything is within walking distance with plenty of food nearby for when you'd like a break.
IMPERIAL NAVAL MUSEUM
Few countries have a richer history in seafaring than Turkey. In fact - the Turks were one of the first to depict the existence of the American continent on a map. The Naval Museum located centrally in Besiktas is the foremost naval museum in Turkey, home to naval artefacts reaching centuries into the past and up to the modern day.
SÜLEYMANIYE MOSQUE
The ottoman empire had a single appointed chief-architect by the name of Sinan. Known for using techniques of geometry, architecture, and construction centuries ahead of his time, Suleymaniye Mosque is one of his greatest works of grandeur. Completed in 1557.
ORTAKÖY
Ortaköy is somehow often overlooked by many tourists, but remains a hotspot for enjoying the seaside of central Istanbul. Don't forget to pick up some Kumpir, the baked potato fast food that the district is famous for!
TAKSIM SQUARE / ISTIKLAL STREET
If you really want to experience urban life in Istanbul, head down to the historic shopping street of Istiklal where high-end stores are flanked by baroque style residential buildings.
BAGDAT AVENUE
A long shopping avenue with a mixture of mid and high-end stores, cafés and restaurants open from breakfast to nightlife.
ISTINYE DISTRICT
This fashionable and high-end district is home to winding roads lined by trees, eateries and refined luxurious stores.
MINIATURK
Wish you could tour the whole country but don't have time? Miniaturk is your place! Home to scale models of nation-wide landmarks, it's one of the world's largest miniature parks with a 15,000 m² model area and total area of 60,000 square metres.
ŞİLE/AĞVA
To the northeast of Istanbul on the outskirts of the city lie Shile and Agva, small villages on the black sea. Offering expansive beaches, stunning open sea views, camping and local restaraunts/cafes, high caution is advised for swimming as the tides can get strong!
