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  • Must Know Tips to Know Before Traveling to Istanbul

    Many visitors from all around the world consider Istanbul a dreamy destination. Layers of history, tradition, colors, and scents are buried under the surface of the unique city, which links two continents where you can feel the East and the West. When you need a break from it all, there's always a beautiful park, a small tea house, or a café where you can rest, breathe, and relax. Join us to discover a collection of must-know tips that will guide you to organize your stay in the best possible way!


    Best Time to Travel Istanbul 


    The best season to visit Istanbul is spring and autumn, whether you will be there for sightseeing, shopping, or medical tourism. Especially during April, May, September, and October,the weather is charming. It does not rain often, and the sun does not burn you. So you can walk all around the Ancient city, visit Hagia Sophia or do some shopping in the Grand Bazaar. Moreover, if you are interested, there are many events and festivals during these months. The good thing is that there are not too many tourists!  So, if you are looking for sunny days when it is not too hot, spring and autumn are the best time to see this beautiful city. 


    How many days to Spend in Istanbul?


    Istanbul is a massive city with various places to visit, too many foods to taste, and breathtaking views to see! So if you are planning one or two-day trips, beware that it would never be enough.  Suppose you are here in Istanbul for the first time and wish to see as much as possible. In that case, a one-week trip can be more than enough to see all significant attractions taste different things from the Turkish cuisine, stop by other neighborhoods, and maybe do a daily trip to a close Island. Main tourist attractions in Sultanahmet, such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapı, Blue Mosque, or Basilica Cistern, will take your whole day. Not only because there are long lines to wait, but they are worth seeing for a long time. You can devote your other days to doing exciting activities such as walking through parks, visiting museums, seeing different neighborhoods like Karaköy, Balat, Ortaköy… 


    How to Arrive in the City from Istanbul Airport?


    Istanbul has three airports; however, only two of them are open: Sabiha Gökçen Airport and the New Istanbul Airport.  


    Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, near the Pendik neighborhood. Between Sabiha Gokcen Airport and the city center, there is no direct metro service. The HAVABUS Airport Shuttle is the most practical method to get between the airport and downtown Istanbul.


    The New Istanbul Airport (IST) is located in the Arnavutkoy neighborhood of Istanbul, near the Black Seashore. The average distance between the New Istanbul Airport and main Istanbul city center areas is about 45 kilometers. There is no direct metro line from New Istanbul Airport to the city center. Several regions of Istanbul and Istanbul Airport are served by IETT (Municipal) public buses; however, most public buses go to non-tourist locations. Popular tourist areas like Sultanahmet, Taksim, Besiktas, Beyoglu, and others have no public buses.


    You may also utilize HAVAIST airport shuttles with a considerable discount if you have an Istanbul Tourist Pass. Check out Istanbul Tourist Pass for all of the advantages, including over 100+ attractions in Istanbul You can save over 50% on your Istanbul Tourist Pass and skip the queues at museums and guided tours! 


    Private Transfer 


    The IETT or HAVAIST- HAVABUS airport shuttles will drop you off in the city center, where you must either take a cab or walk, which will be more difficult for you with your children and baggage.  So if you are a group with a lot of luggage, we strongly advise you to use private shuttle transfers to and from your hotel. These private shuttle transfers provide a fixed rate, comfortable, and safe transfer that includes meet-and-greet airport pickups and luggage assistance to and from your hotel from the airports.  Private shuttles may be costly, but they are the most pleasant and convenient for newcomers to Istanbul unfamiliar with the city's public transit system. Therefore, if you have an Istanbul Tourist Pass, you may take advantage of a discounted VIP shuttle service reserved exclusively for you. You will be picked up from the airport and dropped off right before your hotel by your own shuttle. 


    Where to Stay in Istanbul? 


    • Taksim – The center: Taksim is the neighborhood around the well-known eponymous square. It really is the nerve center of the city where all the gatherings take place and the somewhat special events. You will also find many shops, restaurants and small shops of all kinds. The square is crowded from morning until evening. As it is very central and easily accessible, it is a good starting point for visiting the city.

    • Sultanahmet – The historic center: Sultanahmet is also a tourist area crowded from morning to night (especially around the Grand Bazaar), but the atmosphere is already more authentic than in Taksim. You can come across monuments like the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Grand Bazaar, etc. So with these most significant concentrations of historical buildings in Istanbul, you won't be able to stop yourself from being amazed by them.

    • Karaköy- The trendy corner: Karaköy has become the contemporary corner in Istanbul. This is where chic restaurants, small cafes, or designer boutiques can be found. It's super lovely to stroll through its small streets, which come alive when night falls. Nearby you also have the Galata tower and its district, a meeting point for Istanbul hipsters for a long time.

    • Ortaköy – The tiny village: A bit further north of Taksim is the Ortaköy district, which is a place where you can find an atmosphere of a small fishing village. In the early morning, you can also see the fishermen meeting near Ortaköy Mosque, a magical place at sunrise. A large part of the universities and embassies are also right next to it, it is not the most lively place in the city, so you will have to take transport to reach the city center.

    • Üsküdar – The Asian part: Istanbul is divided into a European and an Asian side. Üsküdar is a sea-side district that faces the European side. It is one of the most popular because it has a rich architecture that stands out from the rest of the city and because at night you can walk along its coastline watching the sunset behind Istanbul.


    Save Time and Money with Istanbul Tourist Pass!


    Suppose you are a first-time visitor or revisiting the fantastic city of culture. In that case, you definitely need the Istanbul Tourist Pass! the Pass grants access to more than 100 attractions, and it helps you save money while doing so! You can save over 50% with the Istanbul Tourist Pass. The Istanbul Tourist Pass also enables you to save a tremendous amount of time since you will not have to wait in ticket lines. Just show your Pass on your phone, and you are good to go! Many other advantages come with the Pass waiting for you to explore!

  • New Airport in Istanbul

    The New Istanbul Airport (IST) is in Istanbul's northwestern neighborhood of Arnavutkoy, near the Black Seashore. The New Istanbul Airport is approximately 45 kilometers from the main Istanbul city center districts. After Ataturk Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW), the New Istanbul Airport (IST) in Istanbul's third international airport, which opened with a major ceremony on October 29, 2018. 


    The main aim of IST is to construct a very big airport in Istanbul to cover and manage the rapidly increasing air traffic and trips to Istanbul, which is one of the world's top 20 most visited cities and a major hub for international passengers and airlines. The IST project began in 2015 and is divided into four stages. The first phase of the airport was finished on October 29, 2018, and the airport is now partially open. 


    The IST is expected to be completed in four stages by 2028, with six runways, two terminal buildings, and two air control towers. The IST will be the world's biggest airport, with a capacity of 200 million people per year. 


     


    Istanbul Airport Terminals


    Shops, duty-free, cafés, restaurants, currency exchange facilities, banks, rent a vehicle, information counters, accommodation desks, and left luggage facilities are all located on the arrivals and departures floors of IST. 


    Before entering the departure lounge, all passengers must pass through security. There are stores, bars, and cafés. There are shops, duty-free, eateries, currency exchange, vehicle hire, and hotel reservation offices in the arrivals area. 


    How to Get to New Istanbul Airport?


    Many areas of Istanbul and Istanbul Airport are served by IETT (Municipal) public buses and HAVAIST airport shuttles. H-1, H-2, H-3, H-6, H-7, H-8, and H-9 are the line numbers for IETT Public Buses. Visit the Municipality Public Buses to the Airports page for additional information and schedules. 


    The majority of public buses go to non-tourist locations. Popular tourist areas like Sultanahmet, Taksim, Besiktas, Beyoglu, and others have no public buses. The HAVAIST Airport Buses run on a set route to approximately 60 locations around the city. 


    You may also utilize HAVAIST airport shuttles with a huge discount if you have an Istanbul Tourist Pass. Check out ITP for all of the advantages, which include over 100 attractions. You can save over 50% on your Istanbul Tourist Pass and skip the queues at museums and guided tours! 


     


    Istanbul Airport Private Transfer 


    If you are a group, a family with children, or have a lot of luggage, we strongly advise you to use private shuttle transfers to and from your hotel. They provide a fixed rate, comfortable, and safe transfer that includes meet-and-greet airport pickups and luggage assistance to and from


    The IETT or HAVAIST airport shuttles will drop you off in the city center, where you must either take a cab or walk, which will be more difficult for you with your children and baggage. Private transports, on the other hand, take you right to the front door of your hotel. 


    You can get a discount on Istanbul Airport transportation with the Istanbul Tourist Pass! Private shuttles may be costly, but they are essential for newcomers to Istanbul who are unfamiliar with the city's public transit system. As a result, if you have an Istanbul Tourist Pass, you may take advantage of a reduced VIP shuttle service reserved exclusively for you. You will be picked up from the airport and dropped off right in front of your hotel by your own shuttle. There are even more benefits like guided tours of Hagia Sophia, Dolmabahce Palace, and more





     

  • Most Popular Attractions in Istanbul

    Istanbul is one of the world's major metropolises, having been coveted by empires for ages and spanning both Europe and Asia. Founded about 1000 BC, the Byzantine Empire's great capital, Constantinople, developed into the Byzantine Empire's great capital, and after the Ottoman conquest of the city, it kept its magnificent position as the empire's heart. The city (formally called Istanbul following the Turkish Republic's establishment) is strewn with magnificent relics of its long and famous past, and even the most monument-weary tourist will be impressed by the sights here. 


    Apart from the city's most well-known tourist sites, such as Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque, Istanbul also has bustling bazaars, evocative ancient districts, and vibrant eating and nightlife scenes to explore. 


    Topkapi Palace


    Topkapi Palace is one of Istanbul's must-see sites, combining history and breathtaking beauty in an experience that should not be hurried. The magnificent Topkapi Palace served as the royal home of the Ottoman Empire's sultans for almost four centuries. It is one of the biggest surviving palaces in the world. Sultan Mehmed II began construction on the palace soon after the capture of Constantinople in 1453 and resided there until 1481. 


    There are four main courtyards and numerous outbuildings in the Ottoman palace. The first courtyard, known as the Janissaries Court, was where elite palace guards kept watch. The plaza is home to a beautiful fountain and Emperor Justinian's Byzantine cathedral of Hagia Irene, which was built in 548. The Ottomans used the chapel as a storeroom and imperial armory, thus it survived. 


    Hagia Sophia Mosque


    With its enormous dome (102 feet or 31 meters in diameter) that covers what was for over 1000 years the world's biggest enclosed area, the Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Roman engineering. Hagia Sophia is the Greek word for "Holy Wisdom," and it alludes to Jesus Christ, the second member of the Holy Trinity. Built under the instructions of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian between 532 and 537, the building was an Eastern Orthodox cathedral until 1453, with the exception of approximately 60 years in the 1200s when it was a Roman Catholic cathedral. 


    Visitors may enter the central nave via the Imperial Gate and gaze up at the dome's magnificent interior, which has a mosaic-covered ceiling. 


    Dolmabahce Palace


    The Dolmabahce Palace, which has been likened to the Palace of Versailles, has been described as "luxurious, plush, and magnificent." Turkey's most opulent palace, built in the 19th century with 14 tons of gold leaf, combines traditional Ottoman architecture with Neoclassical, Baroque, and Rococo European styles. 


    From 1856 until 1924, it was home to six Sultans, as well as the world's biggest Bohemian crystal chandelier, a gift from Queen Victoria. The location of the Dolmabahce Palace is breathtaking: it was constructed along the Bosphorus shoreline. 


    Grand Bazaar


    Travelers who like shopping can pay a visit to the Grand Bazaar, which has 5,000 stores and is one of the world's biggest indoor markets. The bazaar, which attracts over a quarter-million people each day, sells jewels, carpets that may or may not fly, spices, antiques, and hand-painted pottery. 


    The bazaar, which originates from 1461, now houses two mosques, four fountains, two hammams (steam baths), and the Cevahir Bedesten, where the rarest and most expensive goods have historically been found. Old coins, jewelry with valuable jewels, inlaid weaponry, and ancient furniture may all be found here.


    Explore the City With Istanbul Tourist Pass!


    With the first and the best tourist card for Istanbul, Istanbul Tourist Pass, you’ll save over 50% while gaining access to the best attractions in the city! With plans of 3, 5 and 7 days, you can find the most suitable pack for yourself on our website!

  • History of Hagia Irene

    Nestled within the enchanting courtyards of Istanbul’s historic Topkapı Palace, Hagia Irene stands as a silent witness to centuries of history. Originally constructed in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine, it is celebrated as the first church built in Constantinople. The name "Hagia Irene," meaning "Holy Peace," pays homage to both an early Christian martyr and a higher spiritual ideal. Despite enduring fires, earthquakes, and reconstructions, this remarkable structure has retained its essence, blending elements of Roman temples and early Christian architecture. From its days as a Byzantine church to its transformation into a military museum and now a church museum, Hagia Irene has evolved, mirroring the ever-changing tides of Istanbul itself.  


    Today, visiting Hagia Irene is like stepping back in time, an experience made seamless with the Istanbul Tourist Pass®. This all-in-one pass includes online tickets to Hagia Irene and a specially curated audio guide, offering rich historical insights right from your phone. Whether you're intrigued by its austere yet elegant interiors or its role in shaping religious and cultural history, this magnificent site is a must-visit. With the Istanbul Tourist Pass®, you not only skip the lines but also enjoy access to over 100 attractions, making your journey through Istanbul both effortless and unforgettable.


     


    History of the Hagia Irene


    Hagia Irene Church is the structure with the longest history among the Byzantine churches in Istanbul. It is the second-largest Byzantine church in Istanbul after Hagia Sophia. Unlike Hagia Sophia, it was not converted into a mosque. Hagia Irene is the biggest temple from the Roman period after Hagia Sophia.


    It was built at the beginning of the 4th century during the reign of the Roman Emperor Constantine (324-337). He had the Hagia Irene Church built. The meaning of Hagia Irene is "Holy Peace"; but also it was the name of a saint who lived in the same century.



    Hagia Irene, located within the same courtyard wall as Hagia Sophia, was burned together with Sampson Zenon during the Nika riots in 532. Emperor Justinian rebuilt Hagia Irene. Although the construction started in 532, the end date is not known exactly.


    After the conquest of Istanbul, it was included in the grounds of Topkapı Palace. The structure of the church has not been changed significantly since it was not converted into a mosque after its conquest. Many years later it was used as a warehouse armory and museum project in Turkey in the first place. In the period of III. Ahmet, various objects were brought to the church from all over the empire and were exhibited in two separate sections. Similarly, the church served as a military museum from 1908 to 1949.


    Story of Hagia Irene


    It is a young woman named Penelope. Her name was given to Hagia Irene Church. According to legend, when Constantine the Great rebuilt the city by making it the capital, he came to Constantinople like many Romans.


    Penelope, a devout Christian, endeavors to introduce the Roman people to the Prophet Jesus. However, the pagan Romans who refuse to do this, torture the woman in order to deny the Virgin Mary and to be subject to Paganism.



    First, they throw her into a well full of snakes, but the snakes do not catch her during the night. Then they stone the woman by accusing her of witchcraft. Finally, they tie her to the horses and drag her for hours. When Penelope is not harmed by any of them, the Romans pay allegiance to her.


    As a result, Emperor Constantine declared the young lady a saint and named St Hagia Irene, which means "Holy Peace", and built the Hagia Irene Church in her honor.


    The Importance of Hagia Irene Today


    Hagia Irene stands as a testament to Istanbul's layered history, bridging the eras of Byzantium and the Ottoman Empire. Its significance today lies not only in its architectural uniqueness but also in its ability to narrate stories of resilience and transformation.



    As one of the few Byzantine churches untouched by conversion into a mosque, Hagia Irene offers a rare glimpse into early Christian architecture and spirituality. It also serves as a cultural venue, hosting concerts and events that take advantage of its remarkable acoustics. This blend of historical preservation and contemporary use makes Hagia Irene a vital link between Istanbul's past and present, attracting history enthusiasts and art lovers from around the world.


    In addition to being digital, the Pass offers you many advantages such as skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, and over 50% savings. You get access to more than 100+ top attractions such as Hagia Irene. For more information about The Pass and attractions spots, you can visit the site of Istanbul Tourist Pass®.


     

  • Panoramic Bus Tour In Istanbul

    In many major cities throughout the globe, touring a city in an open-top double-decker tourist bus is extremely frequent. So it is with Istanbul. On this article, you'll discover all the information you need about the Panoromic Istanbul bus trip, including insider tips. So it's time to take a bus trip to see the finest areas of the city while relaxing in your comfortable seat! It is one of the most efficient modes of transportation in the city. 


    What is the Istanbul Panoramic Bus Tour? 


    On this approximately 120-minute panoramic Istanbul trip, you will be shown the major attractions of Istanbul, as well as the finest picture opportunities. Museums, historic cathedrals, royal palaces, magnificent mosques, the Grand Bazaar, and the spectacular Bosphorus are just a few of the attractions that Istanbul has to offer. With our Istanbul Vision red bus, you can take in everything.


    Panoramic Bus Istanbul is a service-attraction, both at the same time! You can use this bus tour to explore the most famosu areas of the city. This will allow you to travel while you are sitting, and you can see many important places on your seat. It is one of the most efficient Istanbul bus tours as you can see, because as the name suggests, it is panoramic. You see the most important places of the city all at once!


    This Panoramic Istanbul tour is recommended to all Istanbul tourists who want to explore the city's attractions and landmarks in a wonderful, quick, convenient, and inexpensive manner. What better way to start and organize your Istanbul days than to leave your hotel, relax at a café, and drink? You will undoubtedly save time. 


     


    Istanbul Panoramic buses are the most unique and comprehensive method to see the city's most important sights and attractions. On our convertible (for wet days) open top bus, the newest technological advantages will serve you as a multilingual audio guidance system in 8 languages (English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Russian, Arabic, and Turkish) with personal headphones.


    A Panaromic Tour of Istanbul


    Enjoy an in-depth view at the living neighborhoods of Byzantine Jews, Italian merchants, and other non-Muslim minority from the top deck of the open-top bus. Get a real understanding of the Balat and Metal Church's history. View attractions like St. Stephen the Bulgarian and get a peek of life in the Jewish Hospital. Take a walk around the Byzantine city walls, go shopping at the Spice Bazaar, and more. English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Russian, Arabic, and Turkish are among the languages offered for commentary. 


    The 2 hour trip will show you the attractions of Istanbul, as well as the finest picture opportunities, against the beautiful background of minarets and mosques. The historic city of Istanbul stands like a step back in time. The only city in the world built on two continents, Europe and Asia, standing on the banks of the Bosphorus and guarding the priceless relics of the three world-dominating empires, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman, of which she was the capital, she is a unique link between East and West, past and present. Explore the Basilica Cistern, Sultanahmet, Hagia Sophia and more!


    Panaromic Istanbul Bus Tour Tickets


    The majority of visitors choose to purchase Istanbul Panoramic Bus tickets online in order to prevent missing the bus due to crowds, as well as because it is less expensive than purchasing on the spot. You may purchase tickets onboard, but be aware that they will be costly and that you will have to wait in line, which can be very lengthy during peak season. In order to skip the lines, you can just purchase an Istanbul Tourist Pass! With Istanbul Tourist Pass, you can save a huge amount of moneey (over 50%) and gain access to more than 100 attractions.


    One of the included attractions in Istanbul Tourist Pass is of course Panoramic Istanbul Bus Tour. If you use this service with Istanbul Tourist Pass, you will not have to wait in lines- you can skip them immediately for every attraction! You also do not have to buy seperate tickets because all your tickets will be included with the pass application. Amazing, right?

  • Why Joining the Bosphorus Cruise?

    A person looking for the first time about Istanbul will have a particular query in mind: what is a Bosphorus Cruise? 


    The Bosphorus is a waterway in Istanbul that connects the Black Sea with the Marmara Sea, as well as separating Asia from Europe. Naturally, it divides the city of Istanbul into two halves. It was formerly a river, but it is now a deep strait that allows ships to travel from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea. This makes it one among the world's most important rivers, particularly for Russia. 


    The beauty of the Bosphorus may be viewed from many perspectives, captivating you with magnificent castles, pavilions, fortifications, and three suspension bridges, regardless of whatever continent you are on. During your private Istanbul tour, your guide will give you an in-depth history of the region based on your interests, and you will get the opportunity to experience being between continents while traveling on a boat, commonly known as a Bosphorus Cruise. Your private guide in Istanbul should be an experienced, licensed guide who has been giving tours for many years and can tell you about the most fascinating parts of the city that you may be interested in. 


    Benefits of a Bosphorus Cruise 


    A private Bosphorus cruise differs from many other (public) tour choices not just in terms of privacy, quiet, and a pleasant environment. The skipper cruises the boat considerably closer to the various landmarks than any other vessel I've ever been on. There is also no hurry, which is a huge bonus. The skipper does not go back and forth with the ship. You may even request that the captain make a short halt so you can get that ideal shot. You may even request a short visit to the Asian side or a swim in the Bosphorus. As long as you don't exceed the two-hour time limit. 


     


    At Night on the Bosphorus 


    Joining a dinner cruise that cruises up to the second bridge for approximately 3 hours is one of the finest ways to view the Bosphorus at night. You may spend the remainder of the night on the boat between continents seeing belly dancers and traditional dances that reflect the culture of various areas of Turkey. 


    Why Should You Take A Cruise On The Bosphorus? 


    While traditional daytime sightseeing cruises down the Bosphorus are a popular and unique experience in Istanbul, those that include supper and entertainment at night may be the greatest choice for doing something unique and memorable in Istanbul. 


    There are many tour companies that offer a variety of dining cruises on Bosphorus that will allow you to enjoy more than just the sights and sounds of Istanbul with breathtaking views of the waterfront palaces, mosques, and bridges, as well as have the perfect package for a great night out in this magical city.


    Bosphorus Cruise with Istanbul Tourist Pass!


    Istanbul Tourist Pass includes a Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Shows, an amazing occasion you will never forget! In this cruise, you will be served amazing Turkish meals while listening to the beautiful oriental Turkish music. Moreover, you can join a daily Bosphorus tour if you want to experience the historical beauty in the daylight. Visit our website to learn more about the 100+ attractions included with Istanbul Tourist Pass, and save over 50%!

  • Summer In Istanbul

    The summer heat in Istanbul is constant from mid-June until mid-October. The warmest months in Istanbul during summer are July and August, when temperatures may exceed 35 degrees Celsius. 


    Summer is also the most peaceful season of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul residents typically spend their vacations in their hometowns or at one of Turkey's numerous resorts. The city is depopulated, traffic decreases, and it becomes much easier to move about, enjoy the beaches of the Bosphorus, the Black Sea, or the Marmara, and get some fresh air away from the city's heat. In Istanbul, the summer months are the peak tourist season. Museums and monuments are open for longer in the summer than in the winter. 


    Princes' Islands Tour


    The Princes' Islands archipelago is a great way to get away from Istanbul's heat. We recommend visiting during the summer weekdays rather than weekends, when the islands are overrun with Istanbul residents and visitors. Small beaches (sadly without sand) may be found on the islands, allowing you to relax and swim in the Sea of Marmara. 


    Raki Balik Near Bosphorus


    The fishing season starts in September, and eating fish throughout the summer is not recommended. Nothing beats a nice dinner with plenty of cold mezzes and rak to unwind after a long day. The national drink, Rak, is an anise-flavored liqueur comparable to Pastis or Ouzo. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the creator of the Turkish Republic, was a big fan of the tale. It even happened to him and his advisers while they were discussing whether or not to drink rak. Rrk is a popular beverage at fish restaurants. This is known as a "raki balik" (the word "balk" means "fish"). 


    Hagia Sophia Visit


    This is a must-see attraction on every Istanbul visit. The world-famous Hagia Sophia Museum would be the first visit if you just had one day in Istanbul. It is a former church and mosque that was deemed one of the world's finest architectural achievements and acknowledged as the world's eighth wonder in 325. 


     


    It's like entering into the sacred worlds of Christianity and Islam, which have combined on the shell-like apse and under an enormous dome, in a strange and mystical atmosphere with a diverse variety of architectural and art works dating back thousands of years. Golden Christian mosaics and vivid Byzantine paintings full of history, for example. 


    Istanbul Jazz Festival


    Istanbul's International Jazz Festival takes place over three weeks. You may enjoy a presentation of the city's finest international jazz, soul, and blues performers at many excellent locations during this major music festival in Istanbul in July. Other highlights include nighttime jazz parties, a jazz boat, and free jazz in the park performances, all of which provide some of the city's finest entertainment. 


    Cruise on the Bosphorus 


    On a 2 to 3 hour private cruise through some of Istanbul's most famous landmarks, you may enjoy a unique sightseeing experience on the Bosphorus from the private deck of your boat. From the large upper fly-bridge, you may appreciate the magnificent landscape with 360-degree views, or rest in luxury on the sun deck or in the cozy outdoor and interior lounges. This cruise will let you see some of the most iconic attractions in the city.

  • History of Hagia Sophia

    Let's take a closer look at Hagia Sophia. The church of the Divine Knowledge, also known as Ayasofya in Turkish, is a significant Byzantine historical place in Istanbul and one of the world's great monuments.


    Hagia Sophia was built as a church in the 6th century under the leadership of the Byzantine emperor Justinian. Justinian requested that the building be constructed on top of other church ruins that had been built several times during the Justinian emperor period, and it took 5 years to finish. It was a temple, a museum in Istanbul, and then a mosque again through the years. Justinian sought to demonstrate his hegemony over his Roman forefathers by erecting an unrivaled architectural structure. With Islamic minarets and inscriptions, as well as lavish mosaics of Christianity, the architecture reflects the religious developments that have occurred in the region over time.


    Istanbul is a large city with a variety of district articles describing attractions, bars, nightlife, and lodging options, as well as being one of the most popular cities for medical care in Istanbul. Istanbul is the most populous city in Turkey, as well as the country's cultural and financial capital.;


    With its long and rich history at the center of empires dating back to the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, Istanbul offers amazing historical and religious sites to visit. The most significant archaeological areas are clustered around Sultanahmet Square and include Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and Blue Mosque.


     


    Hagia Sophia As a World Heritage Site


    In the 1980s, the Hagia Sophia was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in Istanbul. It has been one of Istanbul's most popular tourist attractions, with nearly four million tourists last year; for nearly a millennium after its completion, it was the largest cathedral in all of Christendom. It served as a center of religious, political, and artistic life for the Byzantine world, and it has provided numerous valuable scholarly insights into the period. The Ottomans converted it into a mosque after Sultan Mehmet. It has been a major place of Muslim worship since then. The most important things to do in Istanbul Hagia Sophia are to first admire the wonderful and breathtaking architecture of the Hagia Sophia's façade, where the massive dome and four minarets serve as a wonderful backdrop for photographs. 


    From the inside, you can admire the Byzantine mosaics that adorn the Hagia Sophia's ceiling, as well as a selection of the world's most exquisite architectural and archaeological masterpieces chandeliers, and lighting units dating back to ancient historical times.


    To build the cathedral, marble, and ornamental stones were shipped from all over the world. The emperor used all of his wealth to decorate the structure, including marble in a number of colors and mosaics of gold, silver, glass, tiles, and colored stone pieces on the interior walls. The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul represents high importance and sanctity to its Muslim and Christian visitors alike, with its icons representing both religions.


    Virgin Mary on the Hagia Sophia ceiling, the world of majesty, and the name of prophet Mouhammad, with gilded inscriptions on its walls, “Mihrab” and columns in the prayer square.


    Also, you can visit the graves of the Ottoman Sultans attached to the building of the Hagia Sophia mosque, which represents the sanctity and high historical importance of the Turks.


    After that, relax in Istanbul's green Gulhane Park near Hagia Sophia or visit one of the nearby attractions including the Hagia Sophia bath, Sultanahmet mosque, or Topkapi Museum. 


    Does Istanbul Tourist Pass® Cover Grant Access to the Hagia Sophia Mosque?


    Yes! Istanbul Tourist Pass® grants access to a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia Mosque. It also helps you save a huge amount of money, over 50%! You can buy your Pass to access Istanbul’s most visited museums and have a piece of mind. Your tickets will be virtually available, so you will not have to wait in the ticket lines either. Enjoy Istanbul to the fullest with the Istanbul Tourist Pass® and book your Istanbul visit today!

  • History of Topkapi Palace

    The Topkapi Saray Palace is located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is the largest palace in Istanbul's Old City, and it served as a major center of the Ottoman Empire and a center for the establishment of the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire for four decades, from 1465 to 1856, before Dolmabahce Palace took its place.


     


    The palace had four main courtyards and a number of structures, including apartments, kitchens, mosques, a hospital, and other structures. Nearly 4,000 people lived in the state at its height. The Ottoman Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror ordered the building of Topkapi Palace in 1459 AD, and it was completed in 1478 AD. The Topkapi Palace covers an area of around 400,000 square meters, and it is considered one of the world's largest and oldest palaces.


     


    It was originally known as "Yeni Saray," which meant "new palace," to differentiate it from the previous residence. In the nineteenth century, the palace was renamed "Topkapi. The building extends over the centuries, including after the earthquake of 1509 and the fire of 1665 AD. 


    Due to the Ottomans' interest in the art of cooking, the Topkapi Palace also had a huge kitchen with around 10,000 and more porcelain and cooking utensils, including the "Longquan pot," which was rumored to be necessary for the palaces of the sultans and princes.


     


    Construction of Topkapi Palace


    Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is characterized by the appearance of its fountain, which immediately draws everyone's attention. The fountain is known as the Sultan Ahmed III Fountain because it was constructed during his rule, and it is situated outside the "Palace Entrance." The fountain was built in 1728 AD, and this year was known as the "Tulip Period" during Sultan Ahmed III's reign.


     


    The palace is surrounded by high and broad walls known as the "Sultana Wall," which extends from the Sabbat "Gilar Palace" to "another entrance" and stretches from Hagia Sophia to the Gulhane district in Istanbul, as well as from and to the Sirkeci neighborhood. The palace is surrounded by high and wide walls known as the "Sultana Wall," which extends from the Sabbat "Gilar Palace" to "another street." The portion overlooking the bay with several compartments was destroyed due to the passing of a railway line from the aforementioned location, and there are 28 towers on these walls.


     


    Topkapi Palace’s Gates


    According to tradition, the palace once had thirteen gates, but only a few remain today, one of which is the "babı hümayun, the Gate of Peace." 


    The first square of the palace is situated at the inner end of the door, and it was subjected to a great fire in the nineteenth century, which resulted in great damages in the palace. The square includes the prosecutor booth, which used to collect people's grievances, and to the right of it are the offices of the treasury staff, and behind the wall is the palace bakery. The Church of Ayah Erin is to the right of the square, and the Empire Square is to the left of the square.


     


    Travel Topkapi Palace With Istanbul Tourist Pass!


     


    Istanbul Tourist Pass grants access to more than 85 attractions, including the mesmerizing Topkapi Palace. With Istanbul Tourist Pass, you get more than what you pay for, as the Pass can let you save up to 75%! Topkapi Palace is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, and you can explore them today by booking your Istanbul trip from Istanbul Tourist Pass!


     

  • Top Tourist Attractions In Istanbul

    Istanbul is the cosmopolitan center of history, culture, entertainment, and spending the most enjoyable times among nature and cultural monuments. If you are visiting Istanbul, you probably wonder about the best tourist attractions in the city. Istanbul’s vast amount of historical places and other attractions can confuse the first time visitors, but do not worry! In this article, we'll give you a detailed and organized guide to the best historical sites in Istanbul that you should check during your Istanbul trip! The best thing is, Istanbul Tourist Pass includes access to all of these important landmarks in Istanbul, thus you will not have to worry about tickets.


    Topkapı Palace


    Topkapi Palace is one of Istanbul's most important historical sites, and it houses one of the city's most important museums. It was founded by the Conqueror Mehmed in the 15th century AD, and it served as the Ottoman president's administrative headquarters.  The structure has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, especially following the earthquake of 1509. Currently, Topkapı Palace consists of four main yards, as well as a variety of buildings on the outskirts, including the famous Haramlik and the Imperial Council house. After the Ottoman Empire fell apart in 1923, this structure was turned into a museum.


    Basilica Cistern


    The Basilica Cistern is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns underneath Istanbul's city center. When you visit Istanbul, explore the underground palace, as it was known to the Ottomans, and see for yourself the beauty of the huge cistern . As you learn about the history behind fascinating features like the Medusa head pillar bases, you will feel like you were transported back in time!


     


    Hagia Sophia Mosque


    This structure's history is as mesmerizing as itself. The Church of the Holy Spirit was founded on the order of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian the First in the sixth century. Being used as a church at the beginning, it became a mosque during the Ottoman rule.


     


    Hagia Sophia is one of the most important monuments in the ancient world, as well as the most fascinating religious building in Istanbul. Enhance your visit to Istanbul by visiting Hagia Sophia, which embodies Istanbul's history. The Hagia Sophia is the most popular tourist destination in Istanbul, and it is a splendid architectural achievement. Hagia Sophia was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it quickly became one of Istanbul's most popular tourist destinations, drawing tourists from all over the world.


    Hagia Sophia has been a work of art since the beginning of its construction, not just for its beautiful architecture but also for its mosaics, as well as the inclusion of wonderful Byzantine examples and impressive decorations. 


     


    Dolmabahce Palace


    Dolmabahce Palace is one of Turkey's most famous and beautiful palaces, and it has become a popular tourist spot in Istanbul, with thousands of visitors each year. It is an architectural masterpiece designed by Sultan Abdul Majid, the thirty-first Ottoman Sultan, and it is situated in the Besiktas district on the European coast of the Bosphorus. 


    This palace was designed to replace the Topkapi Palace as the Ottoman Empire's new administrative center. The construction of this palace began in 1843 and was finished in 1856.


    Sultan Abdul Majid's desire for a modern building that reflects the Ottoman Empire's civilized face at the time and is comparable to the elegance and refinement of the palaces of European kings led to the creation of this palace. You will note touches of opulence and luxury the moment you reach Dolmabahce Palace.


     


    Are These Attractions included in the Istanbul Tourist Pass?


    Definitely! Istanbul Tourist Pass grants Skip-the-Line Instant Access to 100+ attractions & services, including these beautiful landmarks and many more. Moreover, you can visit these places with an experienced guide! The guide will inform you about the history and importance of these spots in Istanbul, and you are going to be mesmerized with them even more. With the Pass, you can also save time by skipping ticket lines- which means more time spent experiencing the city!