Istanbul City Guide
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Istanbul City Guide
Sagar & Ami
Planning a trip to Istanbul? This ultimate city guide covers the best places to visit, from iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar to authentic hammam experiences. Discover top food spots to try kebabs, baklava, and street food, plus budget-friendly and luxury accommodations. Whether you're exploring historic sites or enjoying a Turkish bath, this guide has everything you need for an unforgettable trip.
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Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
@sagarpatel
Hagia Sophia, originally built as a Byzantine cathedral in 537 AD in Istanbul, Turkey, is a masterpiece of architecture that later became an Ottoman mosque and now functions as a mosque and museum. It is renowned for its massive dome, stunning mosaics, and historical significance as a symbol of religious and cultural transformation.
Arrive early and buy tickets online to avoid long queues.
Use an audio guide to appreciate the history and architecture.
Take your headphones with you.
Dress modestly as it is a religious site; shoulders and knees should be covered, and women should bring a scarf to cover their heads.
Headscarves (€1) and body covers (€3) are available at the ticket booth.
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The Blue Mosque
@sagarpatel
The Blue Mosque, built in Istanbul in the early 17th century, is famous for its striking blue İznik tiles, elegant domes, and six towering minarets.
Entrance is free, but donations are welcome.
Visit outside prayer times to explore at leisure.
Modest attire is required; robes are provided at the entrance if needed.
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Suleymaniye Mosque
@sagarpatel
The Süleymaniye Mosque, commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, is an architectural masterpiece by Mimar Sinan, blending grandeur with serene elegance.
Dress modestly as it is a religious site; shoulders and knees should be covered, and women should bring a scarf to cover their heads.
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Kadıköy
@sagarpatel
On the Asian side, Kadikoy is a lively neighbourhood with bustling markets, trendy cafes, and stunning views of the Marmara Sea. The nightlife here is vibrant, making it a great place to spend an evening.
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Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church
@sagarpatel
The Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, located in Istanbul, is a significant place of worship for the Greek Orthodox community, known for its historical and spiritual importance. It features beautiful icons, intricate frescoes, and a serene atmosphere reflecting Byzantine and Orthodox traditions.
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Saint Stephen’s Orthodox Church
@sagarpatel
Saint Stephen’s Orthodox Church, also known as the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church in Istanbul, is a unique 19th-century structure made entirely of prefabricated cast iron. It stands out for its neo-Gothic architectural style and intricate detailing, serving as a key religious and cultural site for the Bulgarian Orthodox community.
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Private Fener Greek High School
@sagarpatel
The Private Fener Greek High School, established in 1454 in Istanbul, is one of the oldest surviving Greek Orthodox educational institutions. Known for its distinctive red-brick building, it has historically played a vital role in educating the Greek community in Turkey.
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Taksim Square
@sagarpatel
Taksim Square is the vibrant heart of Istanbul, renowned for its bustling atmosphere and cultural significance. A must-visit is Istiklal Avenue, the famous shopping street lined with boutiques, cafes, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the nostalgic red tram that runs along Istiklal Avenue, offering a charming way to explore this lively district.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sagar & Ami
Hey, we’re Sagar & Ami!
We’re full-time travellers exploring the world on a budget without missing out on incredible experiences. In the past 10 months, we’ve visited 35+ destinations across Europe and Asia, discovering hidden gems, budget hacks, and cultural must-dos.
From street food challenges in Sarajevo 🍢 to island hopping in Thailand 🏝️ and historic deep dives in Kraków 🏰, we love finding smart ways to travel more for less.
We also create destination maps & guides 🗺️ that go beyond the usual tourist spots. Our guides are designed to help you customise your itinerary, blending must-see attractions with local experiences, hidden gems, and money-saving tips 💡—so you can explore like a pro, not just a tourist!
Follow along for practical travel tips, budget-friendly guides, and real, unfiltered travel experiences to help you travel smarter! ✈️🌍✨
What's included
Digital Map
Fully interactive, digital map for finding places nearby
62 places
62 hand-picked places with notes from the creator
DESTINATION(S) COVERED
İstanbul, Türkiye
FOCUSES AND THEMES
Couples
Groups
Vegetarian
Female Solo
Digital Nomads
Family
Vegan
Foodie
People & Culture
Photography
Slow Travel
Wellness
Luxury
Budget
BEST TIME OF YEAR
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FEB
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Format
Map
Maps are simple lists of places often grouped by themes, categories or geos.
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