The Best Things and Places in Istanbul
Rustem Pasa Mosque in Tahtakale (Eminonu , Istanbul)
With a number of Ottoman mosques and many other historical monuments in its map, Istanbul is a top priority on every tourist’s list. Apart from being famous for having historical monuments, it also has the distinction of having some of the best restaurants and boutiques in its periphery.
Being a perfect blend of East and West cultures, you cannot help fall in love with this city beautiful. After all, who would not like to visit a city which welcomes its tourists with tasty food and unparalleled architecture?
One of the most important places worth visiting is the Mosque of Rustem Pasha. It happens to be one of the small mosques built in 1560 especially for the son-in-law of Suleyman the Magnificent. The walls of this mosque exhibits the artistic skills of the time to which it belongs. Made of Iznik tiles of turquoise color, it is indeed a haven on earth.
Located just in the centre of the Sultanahmet, the Byzantine Hippodrome used to be a place for chariot racing. Now days, this place has become a favorite picnic spot not only of locals but also of tourists.
If you want to get an urban flavor of the city, better visit the Spice Market across the Galata Bridge at sunset when the city is engulfed with a rose-colored sky. At this time, the city is at its magical best.
For those having an ear for music, you ought not to miss the signature sound of Istanbul played by the muezzins five times a day. Another place for enjoying some less religious music is to pay a visit to Despina on Fridays and Saturdays. It happens to be one of the best taverns in Istanbul established in 1946. You will be fascinated by the soulful folk music played by the renowned musicians of Turkey. Catch a taxi from Sultanahmet to reach Despina.
Historic Grand Bazaar of the Sultanahmet Istanbul
For shopping freaks, the temptation of visiting the Grand Bazaar is unlikely to be overcome. It is one of the oldest bazaars of Istanbul where you can buy everything under one roof from numerous shops welcoming you with dazzling jewelry to Turkish carpets.
Another shopping bonanza awaits you to be explored while you walk just down the hill and walk to Spice Bazaar. This is the best bet for getting some of the best herbal and flavored spices.
A dish not to be missed during your visit to Istanbul is the Turkish delight known as lokum. It owes it origin to Istanbul way back in 1776. You can buy this delicacy from Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir shop located close to the Spice Bazaar. You can also gift lokum packed as a souvenir to anyone.
You must visit the Topkapi Palace built by Mehmet the Conqueror following his win in 1453. To visit the Harem, you should take a guided tour and enjoy the beauty of this place adorned with elegant kiosks.
Majority of the visitors spend their time visiting the famous shopping malls, but only few visit the bohemian endive.
Hagia Sophia Museum Sultanahmet Istanbul Turkey
The best building of Istanbul is none other than the famous Hagia Sophia. With its beautiful architecture and domed ceiling, you are likely to fall in love with it. It was regarded as greatest church in Christendom till Constantinople (now Istanbul) was conquered in 1453. It was built by Emperor Justinian in 537.
Talking about best things in Istanbul, how can we miss to mention the best eating place of the city, that is, Nevizade Sokak located on Istiklal Caddesi. You can find locals enjoying fresh fried fish and meze in the evenings.
Talking about the best hotel in Istanbul, we would like to name the Four Seasons located in close proximity to the Blue Mosque and the Aya Sofya. It was once a prison of Sultanahmet. To book this place, you must place order days before you actually need to stay and also with a whopping cash as the booking price.
However, if you want to look for something affordable to stay, you can go for Hotel Sebnem which offers you comfort at cool prices.