Places to see

Places to see

There are so many places to see in Istanbul. Touristanbul offers you a great chance to meet with historical monuments, beautiful views and more. Get ready for an amazing experience which fills every moment with joy in Istanbul.

Aga Mosque

Built by Hussein Aga at the end of the 16th century, Aga Mosque is in Beyoglu province and stands out with its location near Istiklal Street. Its garden hosts a very valuable monument, a fountain designed by Architect Sinan.

Ahrida Synagogue

A harmony of brick and stone walls, Ahrida Synagogue was built in the 15th century. As the largest synagogue of Istanbul, Ahrida is likened to Ottoman galleys or Noah’a Ark by various beliefs.

Aqueduct of Valens

Known in Turkish as Bozdogan Aqueduct, the Aqueduct of Valens is built at the 4th century by the Roman Emperor, Valens. Repaired several times during Ottoman Empire era, it is one of the most important historical monuments of Istanbul today.


Aga Mosque

Built by Hussein Aga at the end of the 16th century, Aga Mosque is in Beyoglu province and stands out with its location near Istiklal Street. Its garden hosts a very valuable monument, a fountain designed by Architect Sinan.

Ahrida Synagogue

A harmony of brick and stone walls, Ahrida Synagogue was built in the 15th century. As the largest synagogue of Istanbul, Ahrida is likened to Ottoman galleys or Noah’a Ark by various beliefs.

Aqueduct of Valens

Known in Turkish as Bozdogan Aqueduct, the Aqueduct of Valens is built at the 4th century by the Roman Emperor, Valens. Repaired several times during Ottoman Empire era, it is one of the most important historical monuments of Istanbul today.

Ayvansaray Sahaba Tombs

You should definitely go to Ayvansaray to visit the Tombs of Sahaba (companions of Prophet Muhammad). The tombs of companions of Prophet Muhammad like Hz. Abdussadık Amir Ibn-i Same and Hz. Ebuzerr El Gifari is located at Fatih’s Ayvansaray neighborhood.

Balat

Located at the shores of the Golden Horn and having an enchanting view, Balat attracts the travel lovers from around the world with its narrow streets and historical houses. While walking on the cobbled roads of the district, you can see colorful old buildings and take impressive photos in this unique atmosphere.

Balat
Beyazit Square

Beyazit Square

Beyazit Square was one of the largest squares of the Byzantine Empire, and it rose to prominence as well during the Ottoman Empire era as the palace square. Neighboring Istanbul University today, it is located at the heart of the Historic Peninsula.


Ayvansaray Sahaba Tombs

You should definitely go to Ayvansaray to visit the Tombs of Sahaba (companions of Prophet Muhammad). The tombs of companions of Prophet Muhammad like Hz. Abdussadık Amir Ibn-i Same and Hz. Ebuzerr El Gifari is located at Fatih’s Ayvansaray neighborhood.

Balat

Located at the shores of the Golden Horn and having an enchanting view, Balat attracts the travel lovers from around the world with its narrow streets and historical houses. While walking on the cobbled roads of the district, you can see colorful old buildings and take impressive photos in this unique atmosphere.

Balat
Beyazit Square

Beyazit Square

Beyazit Square was one of the largest squares of the Byzantine Empire, and it rose to prominence as well during the Ottoman Empire era as the palace square. Neighboring Istanbul University today, it is located at the heart of the Historic Peninsula.

Beyazit Tower

Beyazit Tower

The Beyazit Tower, built as a fire lookout tower, is located in the Beyazit district of Istanbul. Constructed in the 18th century with wood, the tower was rebuilt from marble after it suffered from various fires. Having 180 steps, Beyazit Tower has a height of 85 meters.

Blue Mosque

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque, is the most important historical sights of Istanbul. For the blue tiles adorning the walls of its interior, it is called Blue Mosque. The mosque is considered to be the last example of Ottoman classical architecture.

Blue Mosque

Bulgarian St. Stephen Church

Also known as the Iron Church, Bulgarian St. Stephen Church is located at the coast of Golden Horn in Fatih Province. Located between Balat and Fener districts, the church opened after an extensive renovation that lasted seven years.


Beyazit Tower

Beyazit Tower

The Beyazit Tower, built as a fire lookout tower, is located in the Beyazit district of Istanbul. Constructed in the 18th century with wood, the tower was rebuilt from marble after it suffered from various fires. Having 180 steps, Beyazit Tower has a height of 85 meters.

Blue Mosque

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque, is the most important historical sights of Istanbul. For the blue tiles adorning the walls of its interior, it is called Blue Mosque. The mosque is considered to be the last example of Ottoman classical architecture.

Blue Mosque

Bulgarian St. Stephen Church

Also known as the Iron Church, Bulgarian St. Stephen Church is located at the coast of Golden Horn in Fatih Province. Located between Balat and Fener districts, the church opened after an extensive renovation that lasted seven years.

Caferaga Medrese

Built by the legendary Architect Sinan, the medrese’s construction was funded by Cafer Aga, one of the prominent supporters of Art during Suleiman the Magnificent’s reign. Today, Caferaga Medrese is an art center in which Turkish art is taught.

Church of St. Mary

Church of St. Mary located at Istanbul’s Tarlabasi district was built in the 17th century.Referred to as one of the best examples of stone masonry, the church includes a school as well. Repaired various times throughout history, the church carries great importance for the Assyrians.

Corlulu Ali Pasha Mosque

Located in the Fatih Province of Istanbul and distinguishing itself with its exquisite stone and brick walls, the mosque was built the 18th century. At the Corlulu Ali Pasha Complex including the mosque, there are also madrasas and a fountain.


Caferaga Medrese

Built by the legendary Architect Sinan, the medrese’s construction was funded by Cafer Aga, one of the prominent supporters of Art during Suleiman the Magnificent’s reign. Today, Caferaga Medrese is an art center in which Turkish art is taught.

Church of St. Mary

Church of St. Mary located at Istanbul’s Tarlabasi district was built in the 17th century.Referred to as one of the best examples of stone masonry, the church includes a school as well. Repaired various times throughout history, the church carries great importance for the Assyrians.

Corlulu Ali Pasha Mosque

Located in the Fatih Province of Istanbul and distinguishing itself with its exquisite stone and brick walls, the mosque was built the 18th century. At the Corlulu Ali Pasha Complex including the mosque, there are also madrasas and a fountain.

Dolmabahce

The Dolmabahçe Palace built in 19th century is one of the most glamorous palaces of the world. It is located at the European side of the Bosphorus, served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1922.

Yenikapı Harbour

One of the gates of historic Istanbul walls, Yenikapı is an important harbour at the coast of Marmara Sea. Located within the boundaries of Fatih province today, it was known that the district had hosted the Theodosius Harbor which was the oldest harbor of Byzantine Empire

Eminonu District

You should definitely visit Eminonu District to closely feel Istanbul’s history. The district, etched to the hearts of both Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, invites you to a very different world with its historical buildings and colorful bazaar. Eminonu is the first stop of visitors coming to Istanbul from all over the World.


Dolmabahce

The Dolmabahçe Palace built in 19th century is one of the most glamorous palaces of the world. It is located at the European side of the Bosphorus, served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1922.

Yenikapı Harbour

One of the gates of historic Istanbul walls, Yenikapı is an important harbour at the coast of Marmara Sea. Located within the boundaries of Fatih province today, it was known that the district had hosted the Theodosius Harbor which was the oldest harbor of Byzantine Empire

Eminonu District

You should definitely visit Eminonu District to closely feel Istanbul’s history. The district, etched to the hearts of both Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, invites you to a very different world with its historical buildings and colorful bazaar. Eminonu is the first stop of visitors coming to Istanbul from all over the World.

Eyup Square

Eyup Square

Eyup Square, is the holiest site in Istanbul as well as one of the most sacred places in the Islamic world, the Eyup Sultan Mosque was erected by Mehmet the Conqueror over the tomb of Halid bin Zeyd Ebu Eyyûb (known as Eyup Sultan).

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

Built after Mehmed the Conquerer’s conquest of Istanbul, the mosque was designed as a grand complex to include madrasa, mausoleum, bathhouse and public kitchen. With the Eyüp Sultan Mosque visit, you will experience the magnificent days of Ottomans.

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower in the Galata just to the north of the Golden Horn. Built in 1348 as the Tower of Christ by Genoese colonists at the highest point of the citadel of Galata which was then a Genoese colony independent from Constantinople.


Eyup Square

Eyup Square

Eyup Square, is the holiest site in Istanbul as well as one of the most sacred places in the Islamic world, the Eyup Sultan Mosque was erected by Mehmet the Conqueror over the tomb of Halid bin Zeyd Ebu Eyyûb (known as Eyup Sultan).

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

Built after Mehmed the Conquerer’s conquest of Istanbul, the mosque was designed as a grand complex to include madrasa, mausoleum, bathhouse and public kitchen. With the Eyüp Sultan Mosque visit, you will experience the magnificent days of Ottomans.

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower in the Galata just to the north of the Golden Horn. Built in 1348 as the Tower of Christ by Genoese colonists at the highest point of the citadel of Galata which was then a Genoese colony independent from Constantinople.

Golden Horn

Golden Horn

The Golden Horn formed by the collapse of land and consequent filling with sea water, is the natural harbor believed to nurture Istanbul throughout history. Being one of the oldest settlements of the World, its name was based on Greek Mythology.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar has İstanbul's most attractive sites with more than 58 covered streets and over 1,200 shops. The Grand Bazaar is famous for its jewelry, pottery, spice, and carpet shops. The bazaar is famous for leather coats, copper stills, prayer beads, silver and gold jewelry.

Grand Bazaar
Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia

Considered one of the eight wonders of the world, the Great Hagia Sophia Mosque was built in the sixth century as a Christian cathedral. Now serving as a mosque, the structure is an iconic symbol of Byzantine architecture.


Golden Horn

Golden Horn

The Golden Horn formed by the collapse of land and consequent filling with sea water, is the natural harbor believed to nurture Istanbul throughout history. Being one of the oldest settlements of the World, its name was based on Greek Mythology.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar has İstanbul's most attractive sites with more than 58 covered streets and over 1,200 shops. The Grand Bazaar is famous for its jewelry, pottery, spice, and carpet shops. The bazaar is famous for leather coats, copper stills, prayer beads, silver and gold jewelry.

Grand Bazaar
Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia

Considered one of the eight wonders of the world, the Great Hagia Sophia Mosque was built in the sixth century as a Christian cathedral. Now serving as a mosque, the structure is an iconic symbol of Byzantine architecture.

Hippodrome Square

The Hippodrome of Constantinople was built as a horse-racing track in about 200 AD. by the Romans. It was originally used for chariot racing and other public events, and the stadium surrounding the track held over 100,000 people.

Islamic History of Science Museum

Located in Gülhane Park, the museum building was used as the Imperial Stables Building during Ottoman Empire era. Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam displays replicas of works and scientific instruments of Muslim scholars.

Istanbul University

Established in 1933 being Türkiye’s first university, Istanbul University is located at Fatih province. The foundations of this deep-rooted university goes back to the Sahn-ı Seman Madrasa established following the conquest of Istanbul.


Hippodrome Square

The Hippodrome of Constantinople was built as a horse-racing track in about 200 AD. by the Romans. It was originally used for chariot racing and other public events, and the stadium surrounding the track held over 100,000 people.

Islamic History of Science Museum

Located in Gülhane Park, the museum building was used as the Imperial Stables Building during Ottoman Empire era. Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam displays replicas of works and scientific instruments of Muslim scholars.

Istanbul University

Established in 1933 being Türkiye’s first university, Istanbul University is located at Fatih province. The foundations of this deep-rooted university goes back to the Sahn-ı Seman Madrasa established following the conquest of Istanbul.

Istiklal Avenue

Located in the historic Beyoglu district, it is an gallant pedestrian street, approximately three kilometers long, that houses tens of boutiques, music stores, bookstores, coffeehouses, cinemas, theaters, art galleries, libraries, pubs, night clubs, historical patisseries and more.

Monument of Liberty

Monument of Liberty located at Sisli province was built to commemorate the one who died during 31 March Incident. Shaped as a cannon pointing skywards, it honors the independence movement in Ottoman Empire.

New Mosque

as one of the most important figures in Istanbul’s skyline, the New Mosque is a magnificent building at the coast of Eminonu. The mosque’s construction began in the 16th century, and it is regarded as one of the most beautiful examples of Ottoman Turkish architecture.


Istiklal Avenue

Located in the historic Beyoglu district, it is an gallant pedestrian street, approximately three kilometers long, that houses tens of boutiques, music stores, bookstores, coffeehouses, cinemas, theaters, art galleries, libraries, pubs, night clubs, historical patisseries and more.

Monument of Liberty

Monument of Liberty located at Sisli province was built to commemorate the one who died during 31 March Incident. Shaped as a cannon pointing skywards, it honors the independence movement in Ottoman Empire.

New Mosque

as one of the most important figures in Istanbul’s skyline, the New Mosque is a magnificent building at the coast of Eminonu. The mosque’s construction began in the 16th century, and it is regarded as one of the most beautiful examples of Ottoman Turkish architecture.

Old Book Market

Old Book Market

From the the Ottoman period up to today, Türkiye's oldest book market is located in the Beyazid Square. You should visit Old Book Market including many bookstores to get lost among the smell of old books defying centuries.

Old Samatya Armenian District

Used as a natural set for famous TV series and movies with its colorful houses and narrow authentic streets, Samatya welcomes its visitors with a refreshing breath of sea. Distinguishing itself with its historical churches and friendly shopkeepers, you will feel happy at every step you take on Samatya’s streets.

Ortaköy Seaside

Ortaköy Seaside

Located at the seaside, Ortaköy is an attractive spot for tourists with its art galleries, night clubs, cafés, bars, and restaurants. In the history, Ortaköy has an important place in both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.


Old Book Market

Old Book Market

From the the Ottoman period up to today, Türkiye's oldest book market is located in the Beyazid Square. You should visit Old Book Market including many bookstores to get lost among the smell of old books defying centuries.

Old Samatya Armenian District

Used as a natural set for famous TV series and movies with its colorful houses and narrow authentic streets, Samatya welcomes its visitors with a refreshing breath of sea. Distinguishing itself with its historical churches and friendly shopkeepers, you will feel happy at every step you take on Samatya’s streets.

Ortaköy Seaside

Ortaköy Seaside

Located at the seaside, Ortaköy is an attractive spot for tourists with its art galleries, night clubs, cafés, bars, and restaurants. In the history, Ortaköy has an important place in both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.

Pierre Loti

At the top of Eyup Sultan Cemetery you can find one of the best places to look at the famous Golden Horn of Istanbul. Whether you are searching for someplace to get a little sustenance for your own explorations Pierre Loti provides the ideal backdrop to do so.

Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is one of the best known historic bazaars of Istanbul. In the Bazaar where spices in a thousand varieties, seeds and herbal products are sold, you can also find charcuterie and dried nuts and fruits.

Spice Bazaar

St. Antoine Church

The first St. Antoine Church was wooden and built in 1230, but it was destroyed by fire in the 17th century, moved and rebuilt with red bricks in 1724. The church located on Istiklal Street welcomes people from every belief, and lets them make wishes by lighting candles.


Pierre Loti

At the top of Eyup Sultan Cemetery you can find one of the best places to look at the famous Golden Horn of Istanbul. Whether you are searching for someplace to get a little sustenance for your own explorations Pierre Loti provides the ideal backdrop to do so.

Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is one of the best known historic bazaars of Istanbul. In the Bazaar where spices in a thousand varieties, seeds and herbal products are sold, you can also find charcuterie and dried nuts and fruits.

Spice Bazaar

St. Antoine Church

The first St. Antoine Church was wooden and built in 1230, but it was destroyed by fire in the 17th century, moved and rebuilt with red bricks in 1724. The church located on Istiklal Street welcomes people from every belief, and lets them make wishes by lighting candles.

The Galata Mevlevi Lodge

Bringing together music and enlightenment, the Galata Mevlevi Lodge was the first Mevlevi house in Istanbul. By visiting this authentic place, you can take a close look at various works including musical instruments alongside works and hand writings of the Mevlevi culture.

Tomb of Mahmud the 2nd

A prominent monument with octagonal marble architecture, Tomb of Mahmud the 2nd was built by the son of Mahmud, Sultan Abdulmecit. In the following years, the tomb became the resting place of other sultans like Abdulaziz and Abdulhamid the 2nd.

Topkapı Palace

Topkapı Palace was commissioned by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, the Conqueror. Built between 1460-1478, Topkapı Palace served as the official residence for the Ottoman sultans till the middle of the 19th century. The Palace was a setting for state occasions and royal entertainment.


The Galata Mevlevi Lodge

Bringing together music and enlightenment, the Galata Mevlevi Lodge was the first Mevlevi house in Istanbul. By visiting this authentic place, you can take a close look at various works including musical instruments alongside works and hand writings of the Mevlevi culture.

Tomb of Mahmud the 2nd

A prominent monument with octagonal marble architecture, Tomb of Mahmud the 2nd was built by the son of Mahmud, Sultan Abdulmecit. In the following years, the tomb became the resting place of other sultans like Abdulaziz and Abdulhamid the 2nd.

Topkapı Palace

Topkapı Palace was commissioned by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, the Conqueror. Built between 1460-1478, Topkapı Palace served as the official residence for the Ottoman sultans till the middle of the 19th century. The Palace was a setting for state occasions and royal entertainment.

Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is located near the Sultanahmet Square in Fatih. In order to take a close look at the rich heritage of the Islamic World, you can view calligraphy works, earthenware, glass and tiles.

Walls of Constantine

These historic city walls known as Walls of Constantine began to be built in the 5th century. Constructed by Byzantine Emperor Theodosius the 2nd, they got damaged over time. Wrecked more during the conquest of Istanbul, Mehmed the Conqueror repaired them afterwards.

Yedikule Fortress

Yedikule Fortress

Designed as Triumphal Arch during the Byzantine era, the structure was merged with a fortress with four towers afterwards. Three more towers were added to the Fortress following the conquest of Istanbul, and in time it was named as Yedikule Dungeons. Being one of the oldest open-air museums of Türkiye, you should definitely visit this impressive site.


Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is located near the Sultanahmet Square in Fatih. In order to take a close look at the rich heritage of the Islamic World, you can view calligraphy works, earthenware, glass and tiles.

Walls of Constantine

These historic city walls known as Walls of Constantine began to be built in the 5th century. Constructed by Byzantine Emperor Theodosius the 2nd, they got damaged over time. Wrecked more during the conquest of Istanbul, Mehmed the Conqueror repaired them afterwards.

Yedikule Fortress

Yedikule Fortress

Designed as Triumphal Arch during the Byzantine era, the structure was merged with a fortress with four towers afterwards. Three more towers were added to the Fortress following the conquest of Istanbul, and in time it was named as Yedikule Dungeons. Being one of the oldest open-air museums of Türkiye, you should definitely visit this impressive site.