Built between Europe and Asia on the hills of the Bosphorus Strait, the magnificent as it is nicknamed, has marked our history. The Greeks named it Byzantium, the Romans Constantinople and the Ottomans Istanbul, a name it has kept to this day. Pacified since 1923, she intends to shine again. It only takes one trip to see the city's rich heritage in Istanbul. Riches 10 years old, which will be offered to you, symbolized by the Hippodrome of Constantine, the Tower of Leander or even the Blue Mosque, all listed as World Heritage by Unesco!
Admire the Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is one of the iconic landmarks of Istanbul. This Byzantine church was built in 532, well before the construction of Saint Peter in Rome. Today, Hagia Sophia is a mosque that proudly raises its four minarets and its dome to the sky. Visiting this religious building is one of the must-see places in Istanbul! This will allow you to see all the past riches of the Eastern Roman Empire as well as of the current Muslim community.
The Hagia Sophia
Discover the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is the largest of Istanbul's mosques, and the second in the world by the number of its minarets (no less than six). Located right next to Hagia Sophia, she is in many ways her little sister. It is extremely successful in Istanbul, in particular because of the ubiquitous earthenware which clearly differentiates it from other mosques.
The blue mosque
Stroll through the Dolmabahce Palace
This huge palace, whose facade overlooks the seafront, was built between 1843 and 1856. The traditional Ottoman style is complemented by baroque, rococo and neoclassical notes which form the largest monument in the country and which is a must-see in Istanbul. You will not be able to visit its 285 rooms, but la visite du Selamlik, which is the most impressive part, as well as the sumptuous harem. This visit will undoubtedly be a highlight of your stay!
Dolmabahce Palace
Take a walk on the Hippodrome square
The Place de l'Hippodrome brings together vestiges of the Byzantine period: the obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine column and the column of Constantine Murée. Nearby, there are many gardens where you can take a walk in the countryside and enjoy some peace and quiet in the big Turkish city.
Hippodrome Square
Explore the Sunken Palace (the Cistern)
The Sunken Palace (otherwise known as the Cistern) is a large underground room (143 mx 70 m) which supplied water to the palace of Constantine. You can visit this magnificent place whose ceiling is supported by very many finely carved columns. A place to see in Istanbul absolutely!
The submerged palace
See the Süleymaniye Mosque
Built for the famous Suleiman the Magnificent, its construction began in 1550 and lasted 7 years. It is one of the most beautiful mosques to see in Istanbul, although it is a bit out of the way. Domes, fountains, rich ornaments, gardens… the whole is a feast for the eyes! You can visit it for free every day, outside of prayer times.
Suleymaniye Mosque
Visit the Topkapi Palace
If you visit Topkapi Palace, don't expect to see a classical palace. Indeed, this one is made up of small pavilions scattered in a park… Guarded by high walls and watchtowers. The seraglio dominates the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, superb to see!
Topkapi Palace
Take a cruise on the Bosphorus
A must-see in Istanbul: the Bosphorus! This strait separates the shores (and continents) of Europe and Asia and connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. To get a different perspective on the city, nothing beats a cruise. You can then admire many monuments that are visible only by boat: rich Ottoman mansions, palaces, etc. The classic tour usually lasts two hours, but you can also choose a more intimate tour with a guide.
Take a cruise on the Bosphorus
Stroll through the Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world. It is one of the mythical places of Istanbul with its caravanserais. You access it by one of the 18 doors and stroll through the alleys. You will quickly notice that each sector is specialized in a large type of production (tannery, clothing, hookahs, etc.). It is a real bargaining institution and a huge junkyard of objects and souvenirs to come and shop. A must see in Istanbul!
Lanterns in the Istanbul Bazaar
Going out in Istanbul
But Istanbul is not just about its past. Renowned as one of the most frenetic cities in the world, it is carried by a youth who seizes the city after dark! You will be able to go out in ever more trendy places, when Istanbul shines with a thousand lights ... and the lights are reflected in the sea like the stars in the sky.
Istanbul by night
Useful information :
To help you prepare for your trip to Istanbul, discover our practical information:
- To get to Istanbul, from many flights are direct from France. Allow 3h30 for the journey from Paris.
- To see all there is to see in Istanbul, it is best to get the Istanbul Museum Pass. It will give you access to many monuments and museums for a lower price. You can buy it in any site and it is valid for 5 days from the date of purchase.
- To get around Istanbul and if you are staying there for several days, it is best to get a Istanbul Kart : you can then use buses, subways and boats for a price almost half the price.
One evening in Istanbul
The must-sees of Istanbul… and after?
If there was a place to symbolize the City of One Thousand and One Nights, it would be Istanbul. Its rich heritage, its thousand-year-old culture ... everything contributes to making Istanbul a thousand-year-old city, one of those cities that keep their scent of authenticity and tradition. Guardian of the Bosphorus, it is a place of passage and commerce, a joyful living environment! But do not hesitate to visit other essential cities of Turkey: Antalya or Izmir.
