As we enter the last few months of 2022, it’s nice to know that international travel is finally starting to open back up. The COVID-19 pandemic has broadly defined the past 2 years. The global pandemic swept the world and impacted many different aspects of our life. We very likely aren’t totally in the clear yet, either. COVID-19 likely changed the world forever and permanently. That said, travel is starting to open back up, a breath of fresh air for people everywhere.
With international travel slowly starting to open back up, people are taking advantage of the chance to get away and vacation whenever possible. The push for mental health, wellness, and work-life balance has also helped encourage people to take vacations and breaks more regularly.
Perhaps you’re taking a vacation by yourself, with your partner, or your family, and you’ve decided to visit Istanbul for several reasons. Istanbul is historic and is a must-visit place for history and culture-buffs alike. You’ll want to know a few things before your first trip to Istanbul.
The Blue Mosque
One of the major attractions in Istanbul is the Blue Mosque. It’s been an active mosque since the 1600s and was constructed by Sultan Ahmed I. His goal was to build a mosque that could rival the beauty of the nearby Hagia Sophia. Most would agree that he succeeded.
The Blue Mosque boasts incredible architecture inside and out and is a testament to human engineering, ingenuity, and creativity. When visiting the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s top tourist attractions, it’s vital to remember that it is still an active religious site.
As such, it’s a show of respect to engage in the customs and dress appropriately.
Hagia Sophia Museum
Speaking of brilliant architecture that is sure to send your jaw to the floor, the Hagia Sophia Museum is an absolute must-see if you’re spending any time in Istanbul at all. Hagia Sophia was constructed between 532 and 537, and its initial purpose was that of a church. For nearly an entire Millenium, the Hagia Sophia acted as a church. Then it was converted into a mosque for almost another 500 years before finally being transformed into the secular museum it is today.
The interior and exterior design and architecture are stunning, and the views from the inside are enough to make you fall in love with the planet all over again. The only downside to visiting the Hagia Sophia museum is the long lines you have to wait in to get inside. However, anyone who’s been will tell you it’s well worth the wait.
Be careful with your photos, as there’s been some recent renovation work, and you may catch some scaffolding in your photos.
Topkapi Palace Museum
The Topkapi Palace turned into a museum in 1924, about 40 or 50 years after the end of the Ottoman era. For about 400 years, between 1478 and 1856, the Topkapi palace served as the home of the Ottoman Sultans.
The palace museum is one of the top tourist attractions in all of Istanbul, and it boasts an impressive collection of weaponry, cutlery, porcelain, and fabric. It also features incredible architecture and meticulously cared-for courtyards. If you’re visiting Istanbul and have a free afternoon, the Topkapi Palace Museum is a must-add to your itinerary.
Grand Bazaar
Within walking distance from other top attractions like the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered shopping markets in the entire world. For a first-time visitor, this grandiose marketplace can be a bit overwhelming at first. The Grand Bazaar comprises over 60 streets and is home to over 5,000 vendors and shops. The products available are as versatile as the shop owners themselves.
Not only that but there are plenty of restaurants and even a pair of bath-houses that all call the Grand Bazaar home.
Taksim Square
Taksim square is one of the more modern areas in Istanbul, making it a popular place for tourists and visitors to stay when visiting Istanbul. It is because it’s also where many famous hotel chains can be found within the city.
Not only that, but Taksim square has a solid scene for night owls as its home to many bars and restaurants.
Final Thoughts on Istanbul
If you’re trying to have one last-day trip on your visit, you may want to look for luggage storage in Istanbul. This way, you can drop off your things and have one more adventure during your trip before hitting the airport and heading home.
