Top 19 Things to Do in Istanbul – Capital of 3 Empires

In 2019 I binge watched the popular Turkish TV series Resurrection: Ertugrul on Netflix. I became so obsessed with Turkey and the Ottoman Empire I booked a 2-week tour.

In my opinion, guided tours never spend enough times in major cities. So I went a few days early to explore Istanbul on my own.

The former capital of 3 empires – Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman – Istanbul is a history lover’s dream. I call it “History Disneyland”, because there is an incredible historical site literally everywhere you look. Most are within walking distance of each other.

The top things to do in Istanbul include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, Istanbul Archaeological Museum, and the Grand Bazaar.

In this post I will tell you all about the Top 19 Things to Do in Istanbul and how to visit!

Located on 2 Continents

Istanbul is the only city in the world that is located on two continents. Amazingly, half of the city is located in Europe, and the other half is located in Asia!!!

As Napoleon famously stated, “If the world was only one country, Istanbul would be its capital.”

Key Takeaways

* Istanbul is located in both Europe and Asia. Most of the tourist destinations are on the Europe side, so I recommend you stay there.

* Istanbul has 2 airports. I recommend flying into Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side. (Not Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW), which is smaller and on the Asian side).

* I recommend flying Turkish Airlines. They are cheap and comfortable. And they serve good food.

Istanbul History

To appreciate the sites in Istanbul, you first need to learn a little about its history.

Founded in 600 B.C., Istanbul was originally a Greek city state called Byzantium. Then in 330 A.D. Roman Emperor Constantine moved the capital of the Roman Empire from Rome to Byzantium. He renamed the city Constantinople, which means “Constantine’s city” in Greek.

Constantine chose Byzantium as his new capital for 3 reasons: 1) It was located at the center of the Roman Empire 2) It was strategically located on a peninsula and 3) It had an excellent harbor.

The Ottoman Empire conquered the Byzantine Empire

Istanbul is located on a peninsula at the intersection of the Black Sea, the Bosporus and the Marmara Sea. As a result, it has been one of the hardest cities to conquer from Roman times to the Ottoman Empire.

Constantinople was the capital of the Roman Empire for more than 1,000 years. In fact, the latter part of the Eastern Roman Empire is now called the Byzantine Empire.

Then in 1453 the Muslim Ottoman Empire conquered Constantinople; thus ending the 1,800-year-old Roman Empire. The Roman palace and most churches were converted into mosques.

Read on to learn the Top 20 Things to Do in Istanbul!

1) Visit The Blue Mosque

The most well-known destination in Istanbul is the Sultanahmet or “Blue Mosque.”

Built in 1609, it is named after Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I, the conqueror of Constantinople. (As a sidenote, 35 of the 1,400 mosques in Istanbul are named after a sultan).

The Blue Mosque is easily recognizable because of its 6 minarets; most mosques only have 4. (A minaret is a tall tower used in Islam for the call to prayer 5 times a day).

Located across from the Hagia Sophia

The Muslim Ottomans conquered Constantinople – the capital of the Roman Empire – in 1453. As has been the custom throughout history, the conquerors built on top of the conquered.

This included converting the Great Palace of Constantinople – which was built by Roman Emperor Constantine in 324 A.D. – into the Sultanahmet “Blue” Mosque.

Note that the Blue Mosque (which was once a palace) is located across from the Hagia Sophia (which was once a cathedral).

Why is it called the Blue Mosque?

The Sultanahmet Mosque is called the Blue Mosque because of the 21,000 blue Iznik tiles on the walls of its interior.

However, I have been to the Blue Mosque twice and did not see any blue tiles either time. Maybe because it was under construction? I downloaded the below picture – which shows blue tile – on Shutterstock.

Blue Mosque Specs

Like most mosques, the Blue Mosque has the tomb of its founder, a madrasa (religious school), and a hospice onsite. The tomb of Sultan Ahmed I is located adjacent to the mosque garden.

I don’t know why the Blue Mosque is so famous. I don’t think most westerners know it was built on top of a Roman palace. Personally, I think the Suleymanie Mosque (also located in Istanbul) is much more beautiful.

How to Visit the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is a “working mosque”, so the congregation gathers to pray 5 times a day. Visitors (even non-Muslims) are welcome to join the prayer. However, they are not allowed to take pictures during prayer time.

The mosque is closed to non-worshippers for 30 minutes during the 5 daily prayers.

Non-worshipping visitors are allowed to enter the Blue Mosque on Saturday-Thursday from 8:30am-4:45pm during non-prayer times.

Friday is the holy day in Islam. Men are expected to attend the communal Friday midday prayers and sermon. On Fridays, non-worshipping visitors are only allowed to enter the Blue Mosque from 2:30pm – 4:45pm during non-prayer times.

Prayer times fluctuate depending on sunrise and sunset. Therefore, you should check the Blue Mosque Visiting Hours in advance.

Dress Code at the Blue Mosque

As with every mosque, visitors have to remove their shoes to enter the Blue Mosque. And women have to wear a head scarf. (When I travel in Muslim countries, I carry a black head scarf in my backpack).

Visitors wearing short shorts or short skirts have to put on a turquoise skirt provided by the mosque. (Even men).

Check out Istanbul: Blue Mosque Guided Tour

2) Explore the Tomb of Sultan Ahmed I

Next door to the Blue Mosque are the tombs of several Ottoman Sultans. This includes Sultan Ahmed I, who the mosque is named after. You can enter for free – no ticket is required. All you have to do is take off your shoes.

3) Take Pictures of the Hagia Sophia

Directly across from the Blue Mosque is the world-famous Hagia Sophia (pronounced “Aya” not “Hag-i-a”). Built in 532 A.D. by the Byzantines (Romans), it is best known for being the largest cathedral in the world for 1,000 years.

When the Ottomans conquered Constantinople in 1453, the Hagia Sophia became a mosque. After Turkey became a republic in 1932, President Ataturk converted it into a museum.

Then on July 10, 2020, hearts around the world (including mine!) broke when Turkish dictator Recep Erdoğan converted the Hagia Sophia back to a mosque. The beautiful Christian mosaics were covered in curtains, and the ancient marble floors were covered in green carpet.

Check out my blog Visiting Hagia Sophia in 2024: Ticket Price + Opening Hours!

Largest Cathedral for 1,000 Years

The Hagia Sophia is considered both an engineering marvel and the epitome of Byzantine architecture.

At the time it was built, the Hagia Sophia was the largest building in the world. In fact, the dome ceiling is so large, in 558 A.D. the dome collapsed after an earthquake and had to be rebuilt.

The most noteworthy fact about the Hagia Sophia is that it was the largest cathedral in the world for 1,000 years! That honor now belongs to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.

Converted back to a Mosque

When I went to Istanbul in 2018 and 2019, the Hagia Sophia was still a museum, I went inside 3 times and explored the entire building. When it was converted back to a mosque, I was worried that it would be closed to tourists. And I was worried about the fate of the centuries old Christian relics.

However, non-Muslims are still allowed to visit certain parts of the building. This includes the Omphalion, the Dome, and a few of the ancient Christian mosaics.

4) Explore More Sultan Tombs

When you exit the Hagia Sophia, you will once again see several tombs of Ottoman sultans that are hundreds of years old. You do not need a ticket and there is no entrance fee. All you need to do is take off your shoes. (Per Islamic tradition).

Seeing the beautiful Islamic architecture and the sultan’s turbans are a history lover’s dream!

5) Visit the Great Palace Mosaics Museum

In 330 A.D. Emperor Constantine moved the capital of the Roman Empire to Byzantium and renamed it Constantinople. He built a palace (called the Great Palace) which housed the Eastern Roman/Byzantine Emperors for the next 750 years.

Starting in 1081 A.D. the emperor’s residence was moved to the Palace of Blachernae. The Great Palace remained the administrative center of the empire.

In 1453, the Muslim Ottoman Empire conquered Constantinople and renamed it Istanbul. By that time the palace was in ruins. The Ottomans built the Blue Mosque on top of the ruins.

Check out my blog Which Roman Emperor Legalized Christianity? Constantine’s Conversion!

Courtyard Mosaics

All that remains of the palace is the mosaic covered floor of a colonnaded courtyard that is housed in the Great Palace Mosaics Museum. It’s a shame to think of all that was lost.

The courtyard mosaics are from 450-550 A.D. They depict daily life, nature, and mythology. For example, a bear hunting a deer.

Visiting the Great Palace Mosaics Museum

The Great Palace Mosaics Museum is open from 9:30am-7:30pm in the summer and 9:30am-5:30pm in the winter.

It is a little tricky to find. The address is Arasta Çarşis. (No street number). It is located directly under the Blue Mosque on the Bosphorus side. It is located directly across from my favorite hotel – the Sultanahmet Palace Hotel.

6) Explore the Hippodrome

Next door to the Blue Mosque (on the non-water side) is the Hippodrome. During the Byzantine period, it was a 10,000 seat arena where chariot races and athletic events took place. Sadly, there are no remains of the arena.

It is currently nothing but a busy square with food and souvenir stands and a museum. I was so confused. While I was standing in the square, I kept walking up to people and asking, “Where is the Hippodrome???”

There are currently 4 historic monuments located on the Hippodrome:

• Serpent Column
• Obelisk of Theodosius
• Walled or Constantine Obelisk
• German Fountain

The Nika Insurrection

In 532 A.D. the Hippodrome was the site of a very famous historic event. The Nika Insurrection was a 5-day riot against Emperor Justinian.

Tragically, in response Emperor Justinian destroyed or burned half of the city of Constantinople and killed over 30,000 people. Justinian then rebuilt the city and started construction on the Hagia Sophia.

Byzantine Emperors Justinian and Theodora

I highly recommend that you watch Extra Credits “Byzantine Empire: Justinian and Theodora” on You Tube. It is a 5-part historical cartoon.

Emperor Justinian and his wife Theodora (who is thought to have been a high priced call girl) are very interesting historical figures.

The Serpent Column

The Serpent Colum is a 2,500 year old bronze statue that originally had 3 serpent heads. It was built by 31 Greek city-states in 479 B.C. to commemorate their victory over the Persian Empire at the Battle of Plataea.

The column was originally located in Delphi, Greece as an offering to the Greek God Apollo. It was relocated to Constantinople in 324 A.D. by Emperor Constantine.

The Serpent Column is made out of metal from the swords of the defeated Persians. It originally had 3 serpent heads, one of which is on display at the Istanbul Archaeology Museum. (See below picture).

However, it currently looks like a sawed off pole. When I first saw it I thought, “What the heck is this???”

Obelisk of Theodosius

The Obelisk of Theodosius is an ancient Egyptian obelisk that was built by Pharaoh Thutmose III in 1450 B.C.

The Romans are known for replicating the culture of conquered territories within their kingdom. Therefore, in 398 A.D. Roman Emperor Theodosius had the Obelisk of Theodosius relocated to the Hippodrome.

Walled or Constantine Obelisk

The Walled Obelisk was built in Egypt at an unknown date.

Emperor Constantine VII moved the obelisk to Constantinople it in the tenth century. It was decorated with gilded bronze plaques that portrayed the victories of Constantine’s grandfather Basil I.

Sadly, the bronze plaques were stolen and melted down by Fourth Crusaders in 1204 A.D. When the Ottomans took over Istanbul in 1453 A.D., young Janissaries liked to climb the obelisk to show off their prowess. Unfortunately, that resulted in further damage.

The German Fountain

There is a green and white fountain on the Hippodrome that was donated by German Kaiser Wilhelm II in 1901. I was so excited when I read the plaque because Kaiser Wilhelm is a fascinating historical figure!!!

On an 1898 trip to the Holy Land, the kaiser entered Jerusalem seated on a white horse; in reference to Jesus’ prophesized return to the city in the Bible.

In response, the Ottoman Turks built a wide passage between the Jaffa Gate and the Citadel which is still there today. It leads to the Arab souk; which is my favorite.

As if that wasn’t interesting enough, at the end of World War I British General Allenby intentionally entered Jerusalem by a different method then Kaiser Wilhelm. On December 11, 1917, Allenby passed through the Jaffa Gate on foot to accept the Ottoman Turks surrender to the Allied forces.

Guided Byzantine Hippodrome Visit

7) Marvel at the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

On the other side of the Hippodrome is the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum. The last museum to open during the Ottoman Empire, it features rare art from both the Islamic world and Turkish history.

The Museum was founded in 1914 to protect artifacts on display in mosques, masjids, dervish lodges, zaviyes and tombs. This includes carpets, paintings, tiles, books, ceramics, and metalwork. There are also several displays on Turkish culture, including nomad groups.

Of special note are ancient copies of the Koran that contain breathtakingly beautiful artwork and calligraphy.

Another museum highlight is the 1,700 piece carpet and prayer mat collection. It contains every type of Seljuk and Ottoman carpet. Which explains why the collection is known around the world as the “Carpet Museum.”

Located in a Former Palace

The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is located in the former palace of Pargalı Ibrahim Pasha, which was constructed in 1524 A.D.

Ibrahim was a Janissary that rose to become second grand vizier to Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The Janissaries were elite infantry units that originally were made up of kidnapped young Christian boys who were converted to Islam.

Ibrahim famously married Suleiman’s sister Hatice Sultan, even though that was forbidden since Janissaries were born into non-Muslim families. The Turkish soap opera Magnificent Century explores the love story of Ibrahim and Hatice. You can watch it on YouTube. It’s sooooo good I highly recommend it!

Items Owned by the Prophet Mohammed

One of the main highlights of the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is the Prophet’s Relics Room. It contains sacred relics of the Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam.

This includes several hairs from the Prophet’s beard, art pieces that depict the Prophet’s beard, and items from the Kaaba, including a key, doors, and a woven belt. 

Umayyads

After the death of the Islamic prophet Muhammad in 632 A.D., a series of caliphs (kings) succeeded him. The Rashidun Caliphate (632–661) was the first Islamic state. It was ruled by the first four caliphs – Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali.

The Rashiduns were succeeded by the Umayyad Caliphate – which is considered the first Muslim dynasty. They ruled from 661–750.

The capital of the Umayyad Caliphate was Damasus. One of the largest empires in terms of area, it reached into northern Africa and part of the Indian subcontinent. From 756-1031 they ruled al-Andalus (Islamic Spain).

Seljuks

The Seljuk Empire (1037–1308 A.D.) was a medieval Turkish Empire based in central Anatolia. It is named after Seljuk, a warlord who belonged to the Qinig tribe of Oghuz Turks. In 985 he led his clan to modern-day Kazakhstan where they converted to Islam.

The Seljuk Empire was founded in 1037 by Seljuk’s son Musa and two nephews Tughril and Chaghri. It covered 1.5 million square miles from Anatolia and the Levant in the west to the Hindu Kush in the east. And from Central Asia in the north to the Persian Gulf in the south.

The Seljuks are best known for fighting European Christian Crusaders in the First Crusade. And for conquering the Byzantine Empire, which helped spread Islam.

Mamluks

The Mamluks (“one who is owned”) were non-Arab warrior-slaves in medieval Islamic societies. Captured at a young age in their home countries and converted to Islam, they were trained to become an elite warrior class.

In 1250 the Mamluks overthrew the Ayyubid Dynasty which had been left without a ruler due to battles with the Crusaders. They then ruled Egypt and Syria from 1250 – 1517. They destroyed the Crusader kingdoms of Outremer, and saved Syria, Egypt and the holy places of Islam from the Mongols. 

With the Ottoman victories over the Mamluks in 1516–17, Egypt and Syria reverted to the status of provinces within an empire. Although the Mamluk sultanate was destroyed, the Mamluks remained intact as a class in Egypt and continued to exercise considerable influence.

Timurids

The Timurid Dynasty (1370–1507) was a Turco-Mongold dynasty that was founded in by Timur, a distant relative of Genghis Khan, the founder of the Mongol Empire. It included modern-day Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, and parts of Pakistan, North India, and Turkey.

An undefeated commander, Timur is known as one of the most brutal conquerors in history. So its surprising that the Timurids are best known for their contributions to the arts and sciences, especially astronomy, architecture, and Islamic art. They were patrons of renowned scholars and artists, ushering in an age known as the Timurid Renaissance.

Ilkhanids

The Ilkhanid (1258 – 1335) was a Mongol khanate founded by Hülegü, the grandson of Genghis Khanin. A khanate is an area ruled by a khan or Il-Khans. Hence the name Ilkhanid.

It was located in the southwest territories of the Mongol Empire, including Persia, Iraq, and parts of Anatolia. Known for their conversion from Buddhism to Islam and patronage of Persian culture, they fused Mongol and Persian traditions.

The Ilkhanid are best known for living during the Black Death, which decimated many of them. And for being the pre-cursor of the modern state of Iran.

Several factors led to the Ilkhanate decline. This included internal conflicts, succession disputes, and external pressures from the Timurid Empire. After the death of the last Ilkhanid ruler in 1335, the empire disintegrated, and a number of local dynasties came to power in Iraq and Iran.

Safavids

The Safavid Empire (1501-1736) was one of the largest and long-standing Iranian empires. It is considered the beginning of modern Iranian history.

They ruled over Iran, and parts of modern day Azerbaijan, Armenia, Bahrain, Georgia, Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan. They also controlled parts of Turkey, Syria, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

The Safavids are best known for making Shia Islam the state religion. This distinguished them from their rivals – the Ottomans and Mughals – who practiced Sunni Islam. Today 95% of Iranians are Shia Muslims. In contrast, most Muslim countries are Sunni Muslim.

Qajars

The Qajars were a Turkish Dynasty that seized power in Persia (modern day Iran) in 1795.

It was founded by Mohammad Khan (r. 1789–1797) of the Qoyunlu clan of the Turkoman Qajar tribe. He became the first Qajar ruler to ascend the throne with title of Shah.

During World War I, Iran was occupied by Russian, British, and Ottoman troops. This weakened King Ahmad Shah’s rule. In 1925 a coup d’état replaced the Qajar Dynasty with the Pahlavi Dynasty.

Karamanids

The Karamanids were a beylik (territory under the jurisdiction of a bey) in South Central Anatolia near present day Karaman Province. In power from 1250-1487, they were one of the most powerful beyliks in Anatolia.

The Karamans are known for having the Star of David – a symbol of Judaism – in their flag; despite the fact that they were Muslims.

The Ottomans chipped away at Karamanid territory over several decades. Then in 1468 Sultan Mehmed II (Mehmed the Conqueror) defeated the Karamanids and a large part of the tribe resettled elsewhere.

Ottomans

The Ottoman Empire (1299-1922) was a Turkish Muslim empire that controlled much of the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and North Africa for 600 years.

It was founded in 1299 by Osman I, a member of the  Kayı tribe, a branch of the Oghuz Turks. The word “Ottoman” comes from Osman. His father was Ertuğrul Ghazi, a bey of the tribe. I highly recommend watching the Turkish mini-series Diriliş: Ertuğrul! It is the reason for my love of Turkey.

The empire experienced its Golden Age under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent (1520–1566).

The Ottomans are most famous for ending the Byzantine Empire with the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror.

When the Allies won World War I in 1917 the Ottoman Empire was occupied and partitioned. The Turkish War of Independence – led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk against the occupying Allies, led to the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923.

8) Explore the Basilica Cistern

Southwest of the Hagia Sophia is the Basilica Cistern. Built during the Byzantine Empire, it transported water to the Great Palace of Constantinople (and later the Topkapı Palace) from a nearby lake. The largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath Istanbul, it is open to public tours.

In an interesting twist, most of the columns came from ruined buildings from across the Byzantine Empire. Two of the columns have a Medusa head on their base that are thought to be from the late Roman period.

The Basilica Cistern was featured in the 1963 James Bond film “From Russia with Love.” Symphony concerts are held there every summer because the acoustics are so good. That’s on my bucket list!

9) Explore the Topkapi Palace

Next door to the Hagia Sophia is the Topkapi Palace. The administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, it was home to the Ottoman Sultans for over 400 years.

Walking into the Topkapi Palace is like going back in time several hundred years and landing in an Arab fantasy. Highlights of the 100-room palace include the Harem, Sultan’s quarters, religious relics, and weapons including jewel covered armor.

History of the Topkapi Palace

Sultan Mehmed II (also known as Mehmed the Conqueror) conquered Constantinople in 1453 A.D. He began building the Topkapi Palace 7 years later.

In the 1570s Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent turned the palace into a home. Sultans and their families lived in the Topkapi Palace for 400 years until the Dolmabahçe Palace was built.

In 1924 the palace was turned into a museum.

How to Visit the Topkapi Palace

There are licensed guides available near the ticket office. I paid $50 for an hour with a guide who got great reviews on Lonely Planet. He ended up giving me a 3-hour tour for that price.

I went back the next day and rented an audio guide device to see everything we did not have a chance to see.

Hagia Irene

When you walk through the first gate of the Topkapi Palace you will be in the First Courtyard. It is located before the ticket entrance, so it is free to enter.

The Hagia Irene (“Divine Peace”) church is on your left. It is located on the other side of the palace wall from the Hagia Sophia. During Byzantine times the two churches were connected by several porticos.

For hundreds of years, Hagia Irene was the second largest cathedral in Constantinople after Hagia Sophia.

Tragically, after the conquest of Constantinople, Sultan Mehmed II converted the Hagia Irene into a weapons armory. My guess is because of the sturdy walls. It is one of the few churches the Ottomans did not convert into a mosque.

The Harem

Another must see site at the Topkapi Palace is the Harem, where the Sultan’s mother, wives, children, and 300-500 concubines lived.

Harem means “something forbidden or kept safe” in Arabic. It consisted of 300 chambers, 2 mosques, baths, and a hospital. The women were taught music, dance, languages, and manners.

Apartments of the Queen Mother

The Apartments of the Queen Mother consist of various chambers, halls, and courtyards. These quarters encompass living areas, audience rooms, and private spaces.

The Apartments are adorned with stunning examples of Ottoman artistry, including tile work, intricate motifs, and elaborately adorned ceilings.

The Apartments of the Queen Mother also showcase exquisite Ottoman architecture, featuring ornate domes, elegant tiles, and beautifully crafted interiors. They offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Queen Mother and the rich artistic heritage of the Ottoman era.

Courtyard of the Favorites

The Courtyard of the Favorites was a central gathering spot surrounded by beautiful chambers and gardens where the concubines spent their daily lives.

It served as a private area for the women and the eunuchs who managed the Harem. It provides a glimpse into the private lives and daily activities of the concubines who lived there.

Süleyman the Magnificent and Hurrem Sultan (Roxelana)

For a re-enactment of life in the Harem, I highly suggest you watch Magnificent Century on Netflix. It is about Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent and his wife Hurrem Sultan. (Red dress on the right in the below picture).

Hurrem (“cheerful one” in Persian) was a slave girl named Roxelana who was born in modern day Ukraine. Her rise from concubine to chief consort and legal wife was unprecedented!

In 1533 A.D. Suleyman married Hurrem in a magnificent formal ceremony. This violated a 200-year-old custom that sultans could not marry their concubines. It was the first time that a former slave was elevated to the status of the sultan’s lawful spouse.

When Suleiman died in 1566 A.D., Hurrem’s son Selim II was chosen out of his hundreds of sons to become the next sultan.

My Experience in the Harem

Most of the scenes in Magnificent Century take place in the Harem. So when I saw it in person it made the show ome to life. I could visualize the concubines dancing for the Sultan in the main hall; hoping he would choose them to spend the night.

I could picture the Sultan’s mother (Valide Sultan) holding court with her ladies in her apartment:

And I could picture what the second floor bedrooms – which were home to the “favorites” – looked like in their day. And I could envision the sultan walking down the corridor to bed the lucky woman chosen that night. (If a woman became pregnant her status would be elevated).

Suleiman Photo Booth and Dolls

I recommend shopping at the souvenir shops right outside the palace. They sell items with images of the sultans and their wives. You can take your picture dressed as a sultan sitting on a throne.

There are Sulemein, Hurrem Sultan, and Valide Sultan dolls for sale. In the below picture, the Valide (mother of the Sultan) is the one with her hair covered.

Imperial Treasury

The last building in the Third Courtyard is the Imperial Treasury. It features objects made from gold, silver, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, jade, and pearls.

The building itself was constructed in 1460 by Mehmet the Conqueror and was used as a reception room.

The most famous item in the Imperial Treasury is the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. A teardrop-shaped 86-carat diamond, it is the fourth largest diamond in the world! The Spoonmaker’s Diamond was first worn by Sultan Mehmet IV at his coronation in 1648.

Another treasury highlight is the world famous Topkapi Dagger. It features 3 large emeralds set into a gold handle. There is an emerald on the top of the handle that opens to a small watch. The sheath of the dagger is adorned with several small rose cut diamonds. And a polychrome enameled section that is decorated with baskets filled with fruit.

Another highlight is the jewel-encrusted Sword of Süleyman the Magnificent. And the extraordinary Throne of Ahmed I (aka Arife Throne), which is inlaid with mother-of-pearl and was designed by Sedefhar Mehmet Ağa, the architect of the Blue Mosque.

Arms and Weapons Collection

The Arms and Weapons Collection features over 10,000 weapons starting from the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. This includes swords, helmets, coats of armor, shields, maces, lances, javelins, gun, and a collection of Turkish bows and arrows.

Highlights include swords that are decorated with diamonds, rubies, and Koran verses. And a Sultan’s armor that is covered in diamonds, rubies, and pearls.

Holy Relics Collection

The Pavilion of Holy Relics features items that Sultan Selim brought to Topkapi Palace in 1517 A.D. after he conquered Egypt. If real, they are extremely important to Judaism, Christian, and Islam.

They include Moses’ staff, the sword of King David, and the bones of John the Baptist.

The collection also contains items that belonged to the Prophet Mohammed. They include the Holy Mantle, hair from his beard, his footprints, letters, bow, and sword. And a reliquary that held a tooth the prophet broke during the Battle of Uhud on March 19, 625 A.D.

Items that once belonged to the Prophet’s daughter Fatima are also on display. This includes a shirt, mantle, prayer mat, and chest.

Library of Ahmed III

The Library of Sultan Ahmed III was built in 1724. It housed an extensive collection of books on subjects such as science, history, philosophy, and religion.

Designed in a classic Ottoman architectural style, it is adorned with ornate calligraphy, vibrant tiles, and exquisite wooden shelves.

Topkapi Palace Gift Shop

The Topkapi Palace Gift Shop sells breathtakingly beautiful Ottoman style ceramics vases, bowls, candle holders, and more.

Check out the beautiful items for sale on the Topkapi Palace online store!

Check out Istanbul: Topkapi Palace & Harem Museum Ticket & Audio Guide

10) Marvel at the Istanbul Archaeological Museum

Next door to the Topkapi Palace is the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. As you exit the palace courtyard, walk past the ruins of the Royal Mint, which housed the Ministry of the Treasury for over 200 years.

Founded in 1869, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is the oldest museum in Turkey. In 1867 Sultan Abdülaziz became the first Ottoman sultan to visit Europe. He was so impressed with the archaeological museums he visited in Paris, London, and Vienna, he returned home and established a museum in Istanbul.

The Istanbul Archaeological Museum currently consists of 3 buildings – the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient, and the Museum of Islamic Art.

The Istanbul Archaeological Museum is open during the Summer (April 1 – October 31) from 9:00am – 8:00pm. And in the Winter (October 31 – April 1) from 9:00am – 6:30[m. The phone # is +902125207740-41-42.

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum is the largest of the 3 museums. it features Greek, Roman, and Byzantine works.

It is located in a beautiful neo-classical building that was  built in 1891. It was built to be used as a museum, which was rare at that time in world history.

Marble Head of Alexander the Great

One of the highlights of the Archaeology Museum is a marble head of Alexander the Great. It was discovered in 1900 near the Acropolis in Pergamon, Turkey.

One of the world’s greatest military generals, Alexander created a vast empire that stretched from Macedonia to Egypt and from Greece to part of India.

My family is from the same part of Macedonia, Greece as Alexander the Great, and I have always had a strange fascination with him.

Greek & Roman Sarcophagi

One of the highlights of the Archaeological Museum is a collection of Sarcophagi.

A Sarcophagus is a stone coffin adorned with sculpture or inscription and associated with the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Rome, and Greece.

Especially noteworthy are the Tomb of Crying Women (Sarcophagus of the mourning women), the Lycia Tomb, and the Tabnit tomb. All 3 were brought to Istanbul from the Necropolis in Sedon, Lebanon.

Alexander Sarcophagus

One of the most famous items at the Archaeology Museum is the Alexander Sarcophagus. I mistakenly thought it was the actual coffin of Alexander the Great and was so excited to see it!

It turns out that it is called the Alexander Sarcophagus, because it has pictures of Alexander the Great on horseback fighting Persians. It was originally painted in multiple colors.

Scholars are not sure whose tomb it is. One theory is that it is the sarcophagus of Abdalonymus the King of Sidon. He was appointed king by Alexander in 333 B.C.

List of Churches Converted into Mosques

When the Ottomans conquered Constantinople in 1453, they converted at least 44 churches into mosques. There is a list displayed at the Archaeology Museum.

Museum of the Ancient Orient

The Museum of the Ancient Orient houses a collection of pre-Islamic items collected by the Ottoman Empire. Established in 1935, it is located in a building that was built in 1887.

Collections of the Museum of the Ancient Orient

There are artifacts and exhibits from various ancient civilizations, particularly those from Mesopotamia, Anatolia, and the Levant. It offers a rich collection to explore and understand the cultures and civilizations that existed in the region thousands of years ago.

Hittite-Egyptian Peace Treaty

The Museum of the Orient is home to the world famous Hittite-Egyptian Peace Treaty. The earliest known peace treaty in world history, it was signed in 1259 B.C. by Hittite King Hattusillis III and Egyptian Pharoah Ramses II.

Each party had a copy of the treaty in their own language. Two of the Hittite tablets are on display at the Museum of the Ancient Orient. The third tablet is on display at the Berlin State Museum in Germany.

The Hittite version was discovered in 1906 in the ruins of the Hittite capital of Hattusa. It is a clay tablet with cuneiform script text.

There is a symbolic copy of the treaty hanging at the United Nations in New York City.

Egyptian Version of Peace Treaty

There are two known copies of the Egyptian version of the Hittite-Egyptian Peace Treaty. One copy was found at the Ramesseum, which is the memorial temple of Pharaoh Ramesses II. It is located in the Theban Necropolis in Luxor

The other was found at the Temple of Karnak on the south wall of the Great Hypostyle Hall. I have been the Temple of Karnak, but I don’t remember seeing it.

Ishtar Gate of Babylon

One of the highlights of the Museum of Ancient Orient is the Ishtar Gate of Babylon. Built in 575 B.C., it was the largest and most elaborate of the city’s gates.

Babylon was the capital of the ancient Mesopotamian kingdom of Babylonia.

King Lugal-Dalu of Adab

The Museum of the Ancient Orient features a statue of a Sumerian ruler named Lugal-dalu. He ruled the Mesopotamian city of Adab in 2,500 B.C.

Lugal-dalu’s name does not appear in the Sumerian King List. However, the statue has an inscription on its right shoulder that identifies him as a king. It says “In the temple Esar, Lugaldalu king of Adab”, referring to the Esarra Temple in Adab.

It reminds me of my favorite statue at the Louvre Museum in Paris of Ebih, a high ranking dignitary in the Mesopotanian city of Mari.

Cats at the Istanbul Archaeological Museum

There is a beautiful colony of feral cats and kittens that live at the Istanbul Archaeology Museum. They are fed by a low income security guard who pays to feed them out of his own pocket.

When I travel I pull a carry-on suitcase on wheels full of cat and dog food. I pulled my food out and had an amazing time feeding them. Please feed the stray animals when you travel!!!

11) Explore Gülhane Park

After you exit the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, keep walking down the hill and you will reach Gülhane Park. Previously part of the palace outer gardens, it was open to the public in 1912.

The park is named after the Gülhane (“Rosehouse” in Turkish) where the 1839 Edict of Gülhane was proclaimed. The edict launched the first democratic reforms in the Ottoman Empire. This included the equalization of all Ottoman citizens regardless of religion.

I normally spend my valuable time in parks when I travel. But when you get out of the museum you are really close to the park. And The park marks the end of my Sultanahnet area walking tour.

12) Explore Dolmabahce Palace

Ottoman Sultans and their families lived in the medieval Topkapi Palace all the way up until 1856! It lacked contemporary style, luxury, and comfort.

When Sultan Abdülmecid I rose to power in 1839, he wanted a modern palace like the European monarchs. Abdülmecid began construction of the opulent Dolmabahce Palace 10 years later. It is located on the European side of the Bosporus.

Dolmabahçe Palace History

The Dolmabahce Palace was the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856-1887 and 1909-1922. (Yıldız Palace was used between 1887 and 1909). It cost $1.5 billion and left the country bankrupt.

From 1856 until the abolition of the Caliphate in 1924, Dolmabahçe was home to 6 Sultans. In 1924 the new Turkish Republic took over ownership of the palace.

Dolmabahçe Palace Specs

The Dolmabahçe Palace has 365 rooms and 22 saloons. It has the largest collection of Bohemian and Baccarat crystal chandeliers in the world.

In my opinion the Dolmabahce Palace is beautiful on the outside. But the inside does not compare to Buckingham Palace in London or the Palace of Versailles.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk’s Bedroom 

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk – the founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey, used the palace as a presidential residence during the summers. He enacted some of his most important works here.

Atatürk spent the last days of his medical treatment in this palace, where he died on November 10, 1938.

Crystal Staircase

The famous Crystal Staircase inside the Dolmabahce Palace is in the shape of a double horseshoe. It is made out of Baccarat crystal, brass, and mahogany.

Crystal Chandelier

The world’s largest crystal chandelier (4.5 tons) is on display in the Ceremonial Hall. It was a gift from England’s Queen Victoria.

Dolmabahçe Clock Tower

The Dolmabahçe Clock Tower stands guard outside the palace. Designed in Ottoman neo-baroque style, it was built in 1890. The clock itself was manufactured by the renowned French clockmaker house of Jean Paul Garnier.

Dolmabahce Gift Shop

As you step into the Dolmabahce Gift Shop, you’re greeted by a delightful array of treasures reflecting Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. For those captivated by history, miniature replicas of the Dolmabahce Palace offers a tangible connection to Turkey’s past.

Check out Istanbul: Dolmabahce Palace Fast-Track Entry w/ Audio Guide

13) Visit the Süleymaniye Mosque

The Süleymaniye Mosque was commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by the great architect Sinan. It was built between 1550-1557.

It is the second largest mosque in Istanbul and its largest Ottoman-era mosque. In my opinion it is the most beautiful mosque in Istanbul.

Tomb of Sultan Suleman the Magnificent!

The grandeur of the Ottoman Empire echoes through the ornate decorations adorning the mausoleum. Intricate tile work, delicate calligraphy, and the grandeur of the architecture painted a vivid picture of Sultan Suleiman’s era.

Tomb of Hurrem Sultan

The Tomb of Hurrem Sultan is also located there!!!! Hurem is the former slave Roxelana who rose up to become Sultan Sulieman’s legal wife.

14) Shop at the Grand Bazaar

No visit to Istanbul would be complete without a trip to the Grand Bazaar. Built in 1455, it is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.

The Grand Bazaar is made up of 61 covered streets, 4,000 shops, and 26,000 employees. An incredible 250,000-400,000 shoppers visit every day!

What do they sell at the Grand Bazaar?

Items for sale include lamps, shoes, purses, and spices. And of course, the local favorite – Turkish Delight. A highlight are “Nikes” that cost 59.99 Turkish Lira; which is $12! I wore mine every day for 8 months until the soles fell off.

Check out the Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour

15) Explore Miniaturk Park

Miniaturk Park is one of the largest miniature parks in the world. It features models of 134 architectural works from Istanbul, Anatolia, and Ottoman territories that today lie outside of Turkey. It took me 8 hours to see everything.

The park is a photographer and history lover’s dream!! You can see what historical sites – which are now in ruins – originally looked like. And you can get an overview of large historical sites that you can only see part of at a time in real life. I wish every country had a miniature park with models of its historic sites.

Miniaturk Park is Open Daily from 9:00am – 7.00pm. Tickets are 150 TL. The phone # is +90 (212) 222 28 82.

Miniaturk Park Highlights

The highlights of Miniaturk Park include replicas of the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Anitkabir (Atatürk Mausoleum). And of course the Halicarnassus Mausoleum, which is considered one of the 7 Wonders of the World!

Tomb of Ertugurl Gazi

To my surprise, Miniaturk features a replica of the tomb of Ertugurl Gazi, the father of Osman the founder of the Ottoman Empire!!!

My fascination with Turkey began while watching the miniseries Resurrection: Ertuğrul on Netflix.

Miniature Models for Sale

For those who like to construct models, they sell several miniature models in the gift shop.

16) Marvel at Chora Church

Chora Church (now known as Kariye Mosque) is a Byzantine Church constructed by Emperor Justinian in 530 A.D. It is famous around the world for the Byzantine Christian mosaics and frescoes that still adorn its walls.

Chora Church History

The Muslim Ottomans conquered Constantinople in 1453. Grand Vizier Hadım Ali Pasha converted fChora Church into a mosque 50 years later. Tragically, since images are prohibited in Islam, the mosaics and frescoes were covered with plaster.

In 1945 the church was converted into a museum. Thousands of people visited the church every year. I went in 2018.

Tragically, in 2020 Chora Church was converted back to a mosque in 2020 by Turkish President Erdoğan. There are over 3,000 mosques in Istanbul; there was no need for one more. It is a tragic loss to both history and Christianity.

Chora Church Christian Mosaics

Chora Church is famous for its biblical frescoes and mosaics. Most people could not read at the time it was built, so they painted pictures around the church.

Check out the list of mosaics and maps at the Chora Church.

17) Climb the Galata Tower

Galata Tower is a 16-story tower built by the Genoese in the Galata neighborhood of Istanbul. Visitors can take the stairs to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Istanbul.

Galata Tower is Open Daily from 8:30am – 11:00pm. Tickets are 175 TL The phone # is 0212 249 03 44.

Galata Tower History

The first known tower at the current location was a wood tower built in 6 B.C. Then in 527 A.D. Byzantium Emperor Justinian built a lighthouse on the site. It was destroyed during the Fourth Crusade in 1204.

In 1267 a Genoese trading colony was established in the Galata neighborhood of Constantinople. Walls were built around the colony. The Galata Tower was build inside the walls. At the time it was the tallest building in the city.

When the Ottomans conquered Constantinople in 1453, the Genoese colony was abolished and the walls were knocked down. Galata Tower was turned into a prison. It later became a lookout tower for fires.

In 1965 Galata’s Tower wooden interior was replaced with a concrete structure and it was opened to the public. In 2020 the tower was restored then reopened as a museum displaying artifacts from Istanbul’s history.

Galata Tower Rooftop Cafe

There used to be a restaurant on the 9^th Floor and a Café on the 10th Floor of Galata Tower. However, after the tower was turned into a Museum in 2020, it was closed.

18) Take the Istanbul Hop On/Hop Off Big Bus

The Big Bus Istanbul Route includes the Sultanahmet, Eminönü, Karaköy, Galataport, Dolmabahçe palace, Naval museum, Beylerbeyi palace, Beşiktaş bazaar, Taksim square, Şişhane, and Egyptian spice bazaar. You get to sit back and view historical sights while listening to the commentary on your headphones.

I love the Hop On/Hop Off Big Bus! I have rode it all over the world, including Istanbul, London, Paris, Rome, Hong Kong, and San Francisco. It’s perfect for rainy days or holidays when all of the sites are closed.

It takes 2.5 hours if you don’t get off the bus. The buses move from Taksim Square. You’ll get the best possibilities to take photographs.

Big Bus Istanbul Tickets are 40 Euros for 1 Day, 53 Euros for a 2-Day Pass, and 31 Euros for a night tour.

19) Take a Bosporus Boat Cruise

Istanbul is located on a peninsula at the intersection of the Black Sea, the Bosporus and the Marmara Sea. I highly recommend that you take a Bosporus Boat Cruise. The architecture on both sides of the water is absolutely stunning!!!

Check out Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table

Where To Stay in Istanbul

Istanbul offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets. The city is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character.

Here are three top-reviewed hotels for every budget:

Budget Accommodation – Fidelya Boutique Hotel (Sultanahmet)

Just steps from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, Fidelya Boutique Hotel blends affordability with historic charm. Guests love its cleanliness, welcoming hosts, and kitchenette-equipped rooms.

Mid‑Range Accommodation – The Sultanahmet Palace Hotel

The Great Palace Mosaics Museum is located literally less than 10 feet from the entrance to my favorite hotel in Istanbul – the Sultanahmet Palace Hotel. You can see the Blue Mosque from the hotel courtyard.

Staying at the Sultanahmet Palace Hotel – with its Arab motifs and close proximity to all of the historic sites – is not just a vacation; it is a cultural experience.

Looking at the below pictures brought back warm, fuzzy memories.

Luxury Accommodation – Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus (Beşiktaş)

For lavish comfort by the water, Four Seasons at the Bosphorus transforms a 19th-century Ottoman palace into a serene retreat. Featuring a spa with hammam, indoor/outdoor pools, and sweeping Bosporus views, it’s top-tier luxury.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Istanbul? 

The best times to visit Istanbul are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild. These months are ideal for sightseeing without extreme temperatures or crowds.

What is Istanbul best known for?

Istanbul is best known for its rich history as a major cultural and economic hub straddling Europe and Asia. It’s renowned for landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

What should you not miss in Istanbul?

When in Istanbul, some must-see attractions include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and a Bosphorus cruise.

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