Istanbul in Four Days Top Attractions

Istanbul
Istanbul in Four Days Top Attractions
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Day 1
09:00 Blue Mosque (Sultan
Ahmed)
Visit one of the most beautiful mosques in the city famed for
its decoration and blue tiles
09:50 Hagia Sophia

Istanbul's top attraction, a magnificent Byzantine church with
an intricate history and precious art work
11:25 Topkapi Palace

See this huge and opulent Ottoman palace complex
14:25 Istanbul Archaeology

Museums
See art and artifacts spanning all civilizations over 5,000
years of history
09:00 Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed) / Sultan Ahmet Camii
Visit Duration: 45 mins
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque or Sultanahmet Camii is nicknamed the Blue Mosque because of the beautiful
blue tiles which adorn the interior walls. The mosque was constructed between 1609 and 1616 during the
reign of Ahmed I who is also buried here. The mosque complex includes the Sultans mausoleum, a hospice
and a madrasa. The royal architect Sedefhar Mehmet Aga was in charge of the construction and the plans
were documented in eight volumes. The architecture incorporates Byzantine elements and Islamic
architectural features. The mosque was the first of two in Turkey to have six minarets; the number of minarets
on the Kaaba in Mecca. For this reason he added a seventh minaret so as not to rival Mecca.
The interior of the mosque is lined with over 20,000 handmade ceramic tiles. On the upper levels of the
mosque there are 200 intricate stained glass windows; chandeliers hang above the prayer hall; lamps are
Image By: Benh LIEU SONG
adorned with gems and gold and Arabic calligraphy decorate key positions. The floors are covered with Image Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_Ahmed_Mosque#/media/File:Blu
carpets which are regularly replaced. The mihrab features carved and sculptured marble with intricate
decoration. The beautiful mosque is topped by a large central dome and smaller semi-domes.
Address: Sultanahmet Mh., At Meydani #7,
34122, Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
The best way to approach the mosque (and the only way non-Muslims are allowed to enter the mosque) is
Phone Number: +90 212 458 4468
from the West side from the Hippodrome. When visiting the mosque avoid prayer times (for about half an
Opening Hours: Open daily, avoid visiting during
hour after you hear the calling to prayer). Women should cover their heads (free scarves are provided at the the five prayer times throughout the day.
entrance). Men should not wear shorts and men and women should take off their shoes before entering and Admission: Free, donations welcome
place them in the plastic bag provided. Web: http://www.bluemosque.co/
09:50 Hagia Sophia / Ayasofya
Visit Duration: 1 hour, 30 mins
0.4 KM, 6 minutes walking from Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed)
This is Istanbuls top attraction; the Church of the Holy Wisdom (Hagia Sophia) began as a Byzantine church,
then it became a mosque during the Ottoman Era and today is a museum. It is without doubt a great
architectural wonder. The original structure has not survived but it was constructed here in the 4 th century
under the founder of Constantinople, Constantine the Great. After the original building was destroyed
Constantines son Emperor Theodosius had a new church built in its place. The second structure burnt down
in 532 but parts of it have been recovered through excavations. The structure we see today dates back to
532-537 when its construction was over seen by Justinian I. Although the church suffered from earthquakes
and an attack by the Crusaders in 1204 it has retained its historic structure and decoration. From 1453 for
500 years the church became the main mosque of Istanbul during the Ottoman Era.
Image By: Derzsi Elekes Andor
Image Source:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Ayasofya#/media/File:K%C3%A
The church was designed by Anthemius of Tralles and Isidore of Miletus; it has a classic basilica layout. The
church features rich mosaics and a grand central dome with a diameter of 31 meters. The circular dome rests
on a rectangular base all richly decorated with murals, Arabic calligraphy and mosaics. All the interior Address: Sultanahmet Mh., Ayasofya Meydani,
surfaces are polychrome marble in green, purple and white with gold mosaics. You can see the marble Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
mihrab which has survived from the Ottoman Era. Of the many magnificent mosaics the most famous are on Phone Number: +90 212 522 17 50 or +90 212
the upper floor galleries. From the galleries you have a wonderful view down to the nave. Outside in the 522 0989
Opening Hours: Daily except Mondays Summer -
church grounds there are several points of interest including mausoleums, a baptistery and some excavated
15 April-25 Oct 9am-7pm; winter 25 Oct- 15 April
remains.
9am-5pm; Open half day Eid Ul Adha and closed
first day of Ramadan.
Admission: TL30; foreign visitors under 12yrs
free. Included in the Museum Pass.
Web: http://ayasofyamuzesi.gov.tr/ and
http://www.hagiasophia.com/
11:25 Topkapi Palace / Topkapi Sarayi
Visit Duration: 3 hours
0.4 KM, 5 minutes walking from Hagia Sophia
In 1453 Mehmed the Conqueror took Istanbul and in 1460 began the construction of his grand palace
complex which was completed in 1478.The complex covers 700,000m and stands on the same site as an
earlier Byzantine Acropolis between the Golden Horn, Bosporus and Marmara Sea. The palace became the
administrative, cultural and educational center of the Empire as well as being the royal residence for almost
400 years. The royals moved from the Topkapi Palace to Dolmabahce Palace in the mid-19 th century and in
1924 when Turkey gained independence the palace became a museum. The palace complex is surrounded
by walls with several gates allowing access.
Within the walls there are gardens, courtyards, and many important structures. The palace complex has four Image By: Carlos Delgado
main courtyards. As you enter through the Imperial Gate you reach the first courtyard where the Hagia-Irene Image Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topkap%C4%B1_Palace#/media/File:T
Church stands together with service buildings like the soup kitchen which is now a restaurant, the imperial
mint and bakery. The first courtyard leads into the second courtyard (Square of Justice) via the Babusselam
Gate. Here the Empires administrational buildings, ceremonial areas, and treasury were located. The second Address: Sultanahmet, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey.
courtyard is where youll find the Imperial stables, bath house, Tower of Justice, palace kitchens, a weapons Phone Number: 212 512 04 80
and amours section, clocks section and the entrance to the Harem and Dormitory of the Haldberdiers with Opening Hours: Wed-Mon; Museum, Harem,
Tresses. In these buildings you can see a wealth of valuable art work, a costume collection, portraits and Hagia Irene: 26 Oct-15 April: 9am-4:45pm; 15
April-26 Oct: 9am-6:45pm; First day of Festival of
more. The Harem had more than 400 rooms and many different sections. The third courtyard was used for
Sacrifice 1pm-7pm; Museum closed: 1st day
duration and was used by high ranking officers. Here the Sultan would receive guests and have his Privy
Ramadan, Victory Day2nd day Festival of
Room (private chamber). Visitors can see the sacred relics room filled with priceless items. A fourth courtyard
Sacrifice.
holds the circumcision room, pool, gardens, terraces, the Gulhane Tower and Sofa Mosque. Be sure to see Admission: 30TL entrance excluding Harem;
the many kiosks and the hanging flower garden. Harem and Halberdiers with Tresses Dormitory
15TL, Hagia Irene 20TL; Harem only 15TL; Free
for foreign children 12yrs and younger except for
There is a lot to see and each building deserves attention not only for its architecture but for the history and
Harem which is only free for 6yrs and under.
the treasures on display.
Harem, Hagia Irene and Halberdier's with Tresses
Section free for under 6yrs.
Web: http://www.topkapisarayi.gov.tr/tr
14:25 Istanbul Archaeology Museums / Arkeoloji Mzesi
Visit Duration: 2 hours, 30 mins
0.1 KM, 2 minutes walking from Topkapi Palace
The Archaeological Museum (housed in the main building), Ancient Orient Museum and Tiled Kiosk Museum
are under the same administration and grouped together under the title of Istanbul Archaeological
Museums.The buildings are surrounded by beautiful gardens which are included in your entrance ticket. The
gardens were once part of the outer gardens of the Topkapi Palace and the museum was founded in 1891 by
an Imperial degree under the Ottoman Turks. The main building was constructed in 1881 and renovated to
give it the distinct neo-Greek look in 1908. The Museum of the Ancient Orient building was commissioned in
1883 as an art school and reopened as a museum in 1935. The Tile Kiosk was built in 1472 and is one of the
citys oldest structures from the Ottoman Era. It was part of the Topkapi Palace features in the outer gardens.
Image By: Public Domain

The museums hold more than a million authentic artifacts and works of art from various civilizations spanning Image Source:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Istanbul_Archaeologic
5,000 years which have left their mark on world history. The Museum of Ancient Oriental Art holds pre-Islamic
art and pieces from ancient Babylon. The gorgeous Tiled Kiosk has beautiful ceramic work in bright colors
mainly from the 16 th century and some from the 12 th and 19 th century faience decoration. Among the Address: Alemdar Cad. Osman Hamdi, Bey
highlights of the museum are the Sarcophagi of the Kings, brought to Turkey from Sidon, Lebanon during the Yokusu Sk, 34122, Sultanahmet/Fatih, Istanbul,
Ottoman Era. One in particular, the Alexander Sarcophagus has intricate carvings depicting a battle between Turkey
Phone Number: +90 212 520 77 40/41
Macedonians and the Persian army. The 4 th century BC Sarcophagus of the Mourners has 18 carved figures
Opening Hours: Daily 9am-5pm
of women mourning. Other beautiful sarcophagi include that of Satrap, Lycian and the Sidamara
Admission: 15TL, children under 12yrs free;
Sarcophagus from Konya.
Museum Pass applies.
Web:
http://www.istanbularkeoloji.gov.tr/main_page
Day 2
09:00 Little Hagia Sophia
This beautiful church from 530AD was converted into an
Ottoman mosque
10:05 Hippodrome
See the park, square and monuments which have survived
from the Byzantine hippodrome
10:50 Museum of Turkish and

Islamic Arts
See an amazing collection of Islamic art spanning 7th-20th
century from across the Ottoman Empire
12:25 Basilica Cistern

This enormous Byzantine cistern has 336 columns
13:20 Grand Bazaar

See some local color, authentic characters and pick up some
bargains
15:30 Suleymaniye Mosque

This is one of the city's largest and most beautiful mosques
completed in 1557
09:00 Little Hagia Sophia / Kucuk Ayasofya Camii
Visit Duration: 1 hour
The Eastern Orthodox Church of the Saints Sergius and Bacchus was constructed in 530 under Emperor
Justinian I (527-565) and converted to a mosque (camii) after the Ottoman conquest in 1453. It is thought that
the church was designed by the same architects who designed the Hagia Sophia and that it was a kind of
practice run for the Hagia Sophia which was built later in the same decade.
It has stone and brick walls and a beautiful central dome resting on eight polygonal pillars. The building has a
portico, courtyard and garden as well as an ablutions fountain all added during the Ottoman Era. The interior
has a magnificent two storey colonnade along three sides. The columns are of verd antique and red Synnada
marble. The interior walls would have originally been covered with mosaics but none have survived. Instead
there are white plastered walls with elegant blue details around the windows and along the arches.
Image By: Bollweevil
Image Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Hagia_Sophia#/media/File:Sergiu
Address: Kucuk Ayasofya Mh., 34122

Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Phone Number: +90 212 227 4480
Opening Hours: Daily; avoid visiting during
prayer times.
Admission: Free
10:05 Hippodrome / Atmeydani
0.4 KM, 5 minutes walking from Little Hagia Sophia
The Hippodrome of Constantinople was once the entertainment and social hub of the Byzantine Empire.
Today Sultanahmet Meydani (Sultan Ahmet Square) and a park stand where the Hippodrome once stood in
front of the Blue Mosque. Only a few sections and monuments of the original hippodrome structure remain. In
ancient times the hippodrome was used for chariot and horse races, fighting matches, parades, ceremonies
and civil activities. The citys first hippodrome was constructed here in c.203AD under Emperor Septimus
Severus when the city was still called Byzantim. When Constantine the Great took over the city and renamed
it Constantinople the hippodrome took on more importance. Constantine enlarged the hippodrome and gave it
a new U-shape race track which was about 450 meters long and 130 meters wide. There was stadium
seating surrounding the track which could accommodate about 100,000 spectators. Through the Byzantine
Era and into the Ottoman Era the hippodrome was a gathering place for the people of the city. Image By: Public Domain; Adam Carr
Image Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippodrome_of_Constantinople#/media
Several monuments have survived at the hippodrome: The top half of a pink granite Egyptian Obelisk
(Obelisk of Theodosius), shipped from Egypt in 390AD with a marble base featuring a scene in relief of the Address: Sultan Ahmet Meydani, Fatih, Istanbul,
Emperor watching a chariot race. The Serpentine Column features three intertwining serpents slithering up a Turkey
column which was brought back from Delphi in Greece by Emperor Constantine. The Colossus (Column of Opening Hours: 24/7
Constantine Porphyrgentus) is thought to have been erected in the 10 th century to create symmetry with the Admission: Free
Egyptian Obelisk. It was once covered with gilded bronze which was stripped off during looting today we see
the brick inner structure which has earned the structure the name Walled Obelisk. The German Fountain or
Fountain of Kaiser Wilhelm II is an octagonal covered kiosk structure with mosaics and water taps. The
fountain was constructed as a gift from the German people in 1901 when the Kaiser visited Constantinople.
The Basilica Cistern lies below the small park where the hippodrome once stood and above ground there is a
stone tower which was once part of the citys water system. Next to it is a mile stone which was once part of a
triumphal gate and the zero-mile mark on the road to Rome.
10:50 Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts / Trk ve Islam Eserleri Mzesi
0.0 KM, 1 minutes walking from Hippodrome
This museum is housed in the former 16 th century palace of Suleiman the Magnificents Grand Vizier,
Ibrahim Pasha. The museum holds approximately 40,000 pieces spanning from the 7 th to 19 th century. The
items are displayed in sections including texts and manuscripts; carpets and rugs; mining; glass and
ceramics; wood work; ethnography; coins and stamps and stone work. Most of the collection comes from
pieces collected from across the Ottoman Empire during the 20 th century.
Among the highlights of the museum is a magnificent collection of 1,700 carpets. There are also Holbein
paintings, antique tiles and pieces of 13th century Selcuk rugs. Other outstanding pieces include illustrated
Qurans from all the ruling Islamic states from the 7 th century to the 20 th century. Among the glassware Image By: Chapultepec
Image Source:
collection are pieces discovered during excavations of Abbasid centers like Samarra and Raqqa in Syria. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Turkish_and_Islamic_
There is also an illustration of how Turkish architecture changed from tents to 19 th century palaces. Through
the displays you can learn about Turkeys ethnic groups and see examples of their art and everyday items
Address: Meydani 46, Sultanahmet, Istanbul,
through history. The museum closed for renovations in 2012 and reopened in January 2015.
Turkey
Phone Number: 212 518 1805
Opening Hours: 9am-4:30pm
Admission: 20TL
Web: http://www.tiem.gov.tr/
12:25 Basilica Cistern / Yerebatan Sarayi
0.3 KM, 5 minutes walking from Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
In the southeast section of Hagia Sofia is this underground water reservoir (Yerebatan Sarayi) which was
constructed for Byzantine Emperor Justinianus I (527-565). It would have been one of hundreds of
subterranean cisterns used in Istanbul at the time. The site is called basilica cistern as a basilica once stood
here. The cistern covers 9,800m and is 70 meters wide and 140 meters long. It could have been able to hold
100,000 tons of water. The cistern is reached by descending 52 steps and the ceiling is supported by 336
columns each 9 meters high. The columns are the main feature of the space and they take up much of the
room; they are spaces at 4.8 meter intervals in 12 rows of 28 columns. The columns are of different styles
and different types of marble and stone; they were probably gathered from other ancient structures. The walls
and floor are brick plastered with brick dust mortar. One of the fascinating features of the cistern is the Roman
Era Medusa head sculptures supporting two of the columns. The source of these works of art is unknown. Image By: Robert Raderschatt
Image Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_Cistern#/media/File:Yerebatan
During the Byzantine period the cistern would have stored water for use by the palace; after 1453 the water
continued to be used to supply water to Topkapi Palace where the Sultans lived but the Ottomans soon Address: Yerebatan Cad. Alemdar Mah. 1/3
devised their own water facilities to provide them with running water in the city rather than water that had 34410 Sultanahmet-Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
stood still in the cistern. From that time until 1544 when the cistern was rediscovered by a researcher it was Phone Number: 0 212 512 15 70
unused and forgotten. Opening Hours: Daily winter 9am-5pm, summer
until 6:30pm; except on first day of religious
holidays and 1 Jan it opens at 1pm.
Admission: Foreign visitors 20TL; Museum Pass
not valid at this museum.
Web: http://yerebatan.com/homepage
13:20 Grand Bazaar / Kapali Carsi
Visit Duration: 2 hours
0.8 KM, 11 minutes walking from Basilica Cistern
The Grand Bazaar Istanbul, Kapali Carsi or Buyuk Carsi is a large covered market where you can shop for
almost anything. The market has almost 4,000 stores, restaurants, cafes and service stores spread over 61
covered streets. The market is located in the Fatih District between the Beyazit and Nuruosmaniye mosques.
The market was first established as early as 1455 following the Ottoman conquest of the city. There are a
number of gates which will lead you into the rows of stores. The gates have interesting names like the
Jewelers Gate, the Skullcap Sellers Gate and the Second-Hand Book Sellers Gate. Visitors enjoy visiting the
bazaar because it is where locals do their shopping as well so you are sure to get a slice of authenticity and
some good bargains. Approximately 250,000 tourists visit the Grand Bazaar each year. In addition to the
shopping opportunities visitors can enjoy historic architecture, marble drinking fountains, 17 th century kiosks
and some beautiful tile work. Image By: Dmgultekin
Image Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Bazaar,_Istanbul#/media/File:Gr
There are many proposed routes for tourists to take through the market to maximize the sights they see but
you can also take an organized tour of the market or just wander around. Here is one possible walking route: Address: Beyazit Gate, Istanbul, Turkey
If you take a walk through the Street of the Handkerchief Sellers (running north-south through the market)and Phone Number: +90 212 522 31 73
exit the bazaar at the Oruculer Kapisi Gate then continue walking north down a narrow street making a short Opening Hours: Closed Sundays, mid-day on
zig zag right-left you will get to Market Street (Carsi Caddesi). Continuing downhill; the street becomes eve of Islamic holidays and on the first day of
those holidays. Mon-Sat 9am-7pm (early closing
Longmarket Street (Uzuncarsi Cad) which is lined with stores selling a mixed bag of items. Go through the
on Fridays)
Street of the Mat Makers and the Tahtakale District to the Golden Horn and the Spice Market. Along Divan
Admission: Free
Yolu Avenue from Sultanahmet to Beyazit Square you will pass many of the interesting market stalls and
Web:
sights. http://grandbazaaristanbul.org/Grand_Bazaar_Istanbul.html
Note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and at mid-day on the eve of Islamic holidays and on the
first day of the holidays. Visitors should be aware that the Grand Bazaar is also popular with pick pockets and
bag slashers. Bargaining is acceptable and even expected.
15:30 Suleymaniye Mosque / Sleymaniye Camii ve Klliyesi
0.6 KM, 9 minutes walking from Grand Bazaar
Suleiman Mosque is a 16 th century structure built during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent. It was
designed by famed Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan and stands on Istanbuls 3 rd hill. This is the citys largest
mosque; it took 7 years to build and was completed in 1557. The mosque is part of a complex which includes
a hospital, soup kitchen (now a restaurant), hospice, Turkish bath, stores, madrasa religious schools,
caravanserai (han) and the tombs of Suleyman and his wife Roxelana as well as other royals. Suleimans
tomb was designed to resemble the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. The mosque is crowned by four
minarets, two of them reaching 74 meters and the other two 56 meters. The four minarets symbolize that
Suleyman was the fourth Sultan after the conquest of Constantinople (the 10 th Sultan of the Ottoman
Empire). The mosque has an inner and outer courtyard; the inner courtyard can be used by worshipers and
Image By: Jpbazard
has domes to protect them from the sun or rain and an ablution fountain. There are three entrances to the Image Source:
mosque, the main one is from the grand courtyard. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S%C3%BCleymaniye_Mosque#/media/
Inside the mosque floors are covered by thick carpets and huge chandeliers provide the light together with Address: Suleymaniye Camii, Sifahane Sokak,
natural light from the 183 windows. The central dome has a diameter of 27 meters and is 53 meters above Beyazit, Istanbul.
Phone Number: +90 212 5140139
the floor. Arches and columns complete the elegant architecture. The mosque suffered fire damage in 1660
Opening Hours: Daily 10am-6pm except prayer
and was restored giving it a more Baroque appearance. The mosque is known for its brilliant acoustics.
hours.
Admission: Free
Day 3
09:00 Dolmabahe Palace
Take a tour of this opulent Ottoman Era palace
10:55 Istiklal Street

Take a walk down this popular pedestrian shopping street
12:05 Istanbul Modern

See a large collection of work by Turkish and foreign artists
in many medium
13:45 Galata Tower

Go to the top of this historic tower for amazing views of the
city
14:55 Galata Bridge

Walk across this famous bridge at the mouth of the Golden
Horn
16:00 Spice Bazaar

Buy some exotic spices and other items in this famous
historic market
17:00 Rstem Pasa Klliyesi

This mosque is best known for its magnificent Iznik tiles
which cover the interior
09:00 Dolmabahe Palace / Dolmabahe Sarayi
The palace is located on the edge of the European coastline of the Bosphorus strait on the site of a former
bay where the Ottoman fleet would dock. It is the largest palace in the country covering 45,000m and one of
the most opulent.
This beautiful palace was designed by Armenian architect Garbert Amira Balya for Sultan Abdulmedid and
completed in 1856. The Sultans had many palaces but once Dolmabahce was completed the Sultans began
using it instead of Topkapi Palace except for Abdulhamid II (1876-1909) who favored the Yildiz Palace. The
palace was used as both a home and a place for state business and for receiving official guests from 1887 to
1909. The palace has a symmetrical plan with three floors, 285 rooms and 43 halls. The Sultans preferred the
Dolmabahce because it was more contemporary and luxurious; it even had six bathrooms, 68 toilets
Image By: Helge Hoifodt
(imported from Britain) and gas lighting. The palace design has elements of Rococo, neo-classical and Image Source:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Views_of_Dolmabah%
baroque architectural styles mixed with traditional Ottoman architecture. The dcor, art and design shows
how the Ottomans were gradually being influenced more and more by Western European styles. The palace
interior relies heavily on gold and crystal rather than the traditional Iznik tiles used in Topkapi Palace. Here 14 Address: Dolmabahce Cad., 34357,
tons of gold leaf adorns the ceilings alone and the Ceremonial Hall has the largest Bohemian crystal Besiktas/Istanbul, Turkey
chandelier in the world. The palace has a famous crystal staircase and the largest collection of Bohemian and Phone Number: +90 212 26 90 00
Baccarat crystal in the world. The house has architectural features in mahogany, alabaster and brass with Opening Hours: Tues, Wed, Fri-Sun 9am-4pm;
Hereke carpets and bearskin rugs. The walls are decorated with over 200 paintings including works by Ivan closed Mon and Thurs
Aivazovsky and other renowned painters of the time. Today it is only possible to see the interior of the palace Admission: 30TL; organized day tours including
with a guided tour. the palace approximately US$46

Web:
http://www.millisaraylar.gov.tr/portalmain-en/Palaces.aspx?S
10:55 Istiklal Street / Istiklal Caddesi
1.9 KM, 25 minutes walking from Dolmabahe Palace
Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Street) is a popular pedestrian shopping street running for 1.4km in the
Beyoglu District. During its heyday the avenue was the heart of Constantinople when it was known as the
Paris of the East. The street is home to cafes, restaurants, fashion stores, art galleries, cinemas, theatres,
bars, hotels, music stores, libraries, bookstores, night clubs and specialty stores. The avenue is lined with
Ottoman Era buildings from the 19 th and 20 th century in various architectural styles including First Turkish
National architecture, neo-Gothic, neo-Classical, Beaux-art and art-deco buildings from the early days of the
Turkish independent republic. Landmarks along the avenue include Galatasaray Square; the oldest Turkish
secondary school with a grand entrance gate; the worlds second oldest subway station (Tunel) and the
German High School of Istanbul. Many interesting small lanes lead off of Istiklal like Flower Passage where
there are interesting restaurants and bars. Nearby is also the Fish Market, embassies, churches and Image By: Khortan
Image Source:
mosques. The pedestrian street is the site of parades and celebrations plus you can see street performers https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Istiklal_Street.jpg
along Istiklal.
Address: Istiklal Caddesi, Beyoglu, Istanbul,

Turkey
Phone Number: +90 532 421 6164
Opening Hours: 24/7 stores open regular store
hours.
Admission: Free
Web: http://www.istiklalstreet.org/
12:05 Istanbul Modern
0.9 KM, 12 minutes walking from Istiklal Street
At this museum you can see a selection of modern and contemporary art with an emphasis on work by
Turkish artists. The museum building is fittingly a converted warehouse overlooking the city. The museum is
spread over two floors covering 8,000m and features a permanent collection and space for temporary
exhibits. There is also a restaurant, shop, art library and a cinema which screens art-related movies.
The permanent collection includes pieces by Turkish painters from the 19 th to 21 st centuries. Among the
highlights are works by Hoca Ali Riza, Nuri Iyem, Migurdic Givanian and Hekmit Onat. Other Turkish artists
on display are Omer Uluc, Burhan Dogancay, Nurullah Berk and Nedim Gunsur.
Among the non-Turkish artists included in the permanent collection there is Julian Opie, Tony Cragg and Image By: Tatiana Matlina
Monica Bonvicini. There are multi-media pieces and video works like the films of Hale Tenger Canan and Image Source:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Istanbul_Modern_Museum.
Sukran Moral. The works in the collection are in all media including a photographic gallery.
Address: Meclis-i Mebusan Cad. Liman

Isletmeleri Sahasi Antrepo #4, 34433 Karakoy,
Istanbul, Turkey.
Phone Number: +90 212 334 73 00
Opening Hours: Tues-Sun 10am-6pm, Thurs
until 8pm; Closed on 1 Jan and first day on
religious holidays.
Admission: Adult 25TL, students and seniors (
65yrs+) 14TL; children under 12yrs free; cinema
screenings 14TL; parking starts at 6TL an hour.
Web: http://www.istanbulmodern.org/
13:45 Galata Tower / Galata Kulesi
0.8 KM, 11 minutes walking from Istanbul Modern
This tower was built to replace the Great Tower (Megalos Pyrgos) a Byzantine tower which was destroyed in
1204 and no longer stands. The Galata Tower or Tower of Christ was constructed in 1348 by the Genoese
during the Middle Ages. The tower was built to guard the entrance to the Golden Horn. Over the years the
tower underwent renovations several times and during the Ottoman Era the tower was used to look out for
fires. In the 17 th century Hezarfen Ahmet Celebi launched himself from the tower and flew across the
Bosphorus with the help of artificial wings. Later in 1633 his brother tried the same feat with a rocket charged
with gun powder. The tower was used by French painter Pierre Prevost to draw his Panorama de
Constantinople in the 19 th century. At the time of its construction the tower was the tallest structure in the
city; together with its height it is located on an elevated piece of land which gives the illusion that it is even
Image By: Lapost
taller than it actually is. It is built out of stone in the Galata Quarter and is one of the citys most important Image Source:
landmarks. The tower has a cylindrical shaft with 3.75 meter thick walls stretching 66.9 meters tall and with a https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galata_Tower#/media/File:Galata_Tow
diameter of 16.45 meters. The tower is topped by a cone-shaped turret.
Address: Bereketzade Mh., Galata/Beyoglu,

From the observation deck circling the turret you can get brilliant views across the city. On the same level Istanbul, Turkey
there is a restaurant and on the upper floor there is a night club where you can see a show featuring Phone Number: +90 212 2938180
Opening Hours: Daily 9am-8:30pm
traditional Turkish music and dance. Visitors can take one of two elevators to the two levels at 51.65 meters
Admission: 6.5TL
above ground.
14:55 Galata Bridge / Galata Koprusu
0.6 KM, 8 minutes walking from Galata Tower
The Galata Bridge or Galata Koprusu spans the Golden Horn, a naturally inlet and protected harbor in the
Bosphorus River where it meets the Sea of Marmara. The Golden Horn inlet divides the land forming a
peninsula which is home to Old Istanbul (former Byzantium) and the Seraglio Point and the new city to the
north. In 1502 Sultan Bayezid II commissioned Leonardo da Vinci to design a bridge to be built at the
location of todays Galata Bridge. However the Sultan did not approve of da Vincis single span design and
the bridge was never built. Michelangelo was also invited to design a bridge for the Golden Horn but he
declined the project. The Hayratiye Bridge was built further upstream in 1836 and in 1845 Valide Sultan had
the first Galata Bridge built at the mouth of the Golden Horn and called it New Bridge (Cisr-i Atik). This
wooden bridge was replaced in 1863 and by another wooden bridge and improvements were made under
Ethem Pertev Pasas direction. A third bridge on this spot was completed in 1875 and used until 1912 when it Image By: Vikicizer
Image Source:
was moved upstream to replace the New Bridge. A pontoon bridge or floating bridge was constructed in 1912 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Galata_Bridge#/media
by a German firm but it was damaged by fire in 1992 and taken upstream to make way for the current bridge.
The fifth and final bridge built at the mouth of the Golden Horn was completed in 1994.
Address: Galata Kprs Kemanke Karamustafa
Paa 34425 Beyolu/stanbul Turkey.
Today the Golden Horn is spanned by five bridges; moving from upstream to the opening at the Bosphorus Web:
River the bridges are the Halic Bridge; the defunct Old Galata Bridge; Ataturk Bridge (Ukapani Bridge); the http://www.ibb.gov.tr/sites/ks/en-us/1-places-to-go/bridges/p
Golden Horn Metro Bridge (a pedestrianized railway crossing) and the fifth bridge is the Galata Bridge. This
bridge connects Karakoy and Eminonu and was completed in 1994.
The Galata Bridge is a 490 meter long bascule bridge which spans 80 meters and has a 42 meter wide deck.
There are three traffic lanes going in each direction and a walkway plus tram lines. There is a level below the
traffic level where you can find restaurants and stores. From the bridge you can look west to Europe and east
across the Bosphorus to Asia.
16:00 Spice Bazaar / Misir Carsisi
0.4 KM, 6 minutes walking from Galata Bridge
Misir Carsisi or the Egyptian Market is one of Istanbuls largest bazaars and second in fame only to its
neighbor the Grand Bazaar. The Spice Market is situated in the Eminonu neighborhood of Fatih District at the
southern end of the Galata Bridge near the docks. The market covers an area of 384 city blocks. The market
was first established within the complex (Kulliye) of the New Mosque. It is believed that the market got its
name because it was built using funds from the Ottoman division in Egypt in 1660 and completed in 1664.
The profits from the market would be used for the upkeep of the mosque but today the market is a separate
entity. Although the name suggests that all the stores in the market sell spices more and more bazaar
businesses are selling a variety of goods like cheese, nuts, fruit, sweets, souvenirs and other items. Today
there are approximately 85 stores selling spices and other stores selling other goods. The covered market
building is surrounded by small lanes which also have many stores selling interesting goods like Hasircilar Image By: Barbarossa
Image Source:
Cad. On the western side of the market are outdoor stalls selling fresh produce including delicious coffee. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spice_Bazaar#/media/File:Kruiden_in_E
Address: Misir Carsisi #92, Fatih, Istanbul,

Turkey.
Phone Number: +90 212 513 6597
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-7:30pm; Sun
10am-6pm; closed religious and public holidays.
Admission: Free
Web:
http://www.misircarsisi.org/default.asp?LanguageID=2
17:00 Rstem Pasa Klliyesi
0.1 KM, 2 minutes walking from Spice Bazaar
This mosque (Camii) complex (Klliyesi) is often overlooked by tourists but is one of the most beautiful of the
Istanbul mosques. The mosque was originally constructed in 1560; it stands in the Eminonu District near the
Golden Horn. The mosque was the first project of Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. The mosque displays
delicate proportions, and the interior is decorated with intricate Iznik faience tiles. These tiles are some of the
best produced and feature bright red which was one of the rarest and most complex colors to produce in Iznik
tiles. The tiles cover the walls, mihrab and mimbar. The mosque has a single minaret and central dome. The
mosque doors are carved and feature inlaid wood and gilding.
The mosque is named after Rustem Pasha (1500-1561) who was the son-in-law of Sultan Suleyman the Image By: Ra Boe
Magnificent and has gone down in history as the man who plotted with Suleymans wife Roxelana to Image Source:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:R%C3%BCstem_Pas
denounce Prince Mustafa and put Roxelanas son, Prince Selim on the throne. Prince Selim the Sots reign
signified the beginning of the end of the Ottoman Empire. When Rustem had his mosque built he had to be
careful not to rival the beauty and size of the Sultans mosques. So he chose to build it in the market place Address: Hasircilar Carsisi, Tahtakale, Istanbul,
and focus on the mosques interior decoration with the tiles rather than exterior grandeur. Turkey.
Opening Hours: daily 10am-6pm except prayer
times.
Admission: Free
Day 4
10:00 Rahmi Ko Museum
See real airplanes, railway coaches, vintage cars, strange
machines and a real submarine
11:50 Chora Church

See magnificent Byzantine murals covering the walls, domes
and ceilings of this historic church
12:55 Mihrimah Sultan

Mosque
This is a hidden gem, from 1565 with elegant domes and
spacious interior
14:00 Fatih Mosque and

Complex
See this magnificent 18th century mosque complex
14:50 Valens Aqueduct

An ancient Roman aqueduct with two stories of arches
15:25 Sehzade Mosque

This 16th century mosque has a special funeral garden and
beautiful interior decoration
10:00 Rahmi Ko Museum / Rahmi M. Ko Mzesi
This industrial museum focuses on the history of transportation, industry and communications in Turkey. It is
named after one of the members of the wealthiest families in Turkey who was behind the establishment of the
museum. The museum is located on the north shore of the Golden Horn in Haskoy, on the waters edge. The
exhibits are housed in two buildings which are connected as well as several exhibits on display outside and
even in the nearby water. The buildings themselves are attractions; both are restored historic structures on
opposite sides of a road. One of the buildings is a former dockyard alongside the waters edge and has a
glass-enclosed ramp which takes visitors into the basement exhibition area of the Lengerhane. Visitors can
see original and authentic machines and forms of transport. Permanent collections include Road
Transportation; Rail Transportation; Navigation; Aviation; Living History Machinery; Communication; Scientific
Devices and Models and Toys.
Image By: JII
Image Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rahmi_M._Ko%C3%A7_Museum#/med
In the Living History section you can step inside recreated historic businesses including a pharmacy, clock
repairer, toy shop and olive oil factory. Highlights of the museum include the airplanes like the Douglas DC-3
Dakota; a steam car from 1889; the Imperial rail coach of Sultan Abdulaziz; strange machines like a Address: Rahmi M. Koc Museum, Haskoy Cad
Wimshurst Machine and a large train set. #5 Haskoy 34445, Istanbul, Turkey.
Phone Number: +90 212 369 66 00
Opening Hours: Tues-Fri 10am-5pm and
The TCG Ulucalireis is a submarine which is docked in the water alongside the museum. It was built in 1944 Sat-Sun and public holidays (1 Oct-31 March)
and served in WWII and in the Turkish Navy. Visitors can go onboard and explore the submarine with a 10am-6pm, (1 April-30 Sept) 10am-7pm; closed
guided tour (children under 8 years old are not allowed on board). Mondays, 31 Dec, 1 Jan and on the day before
and first day of religious holidays.
Admission: Entry - Adults 15TL, students 6TL;
Submarine - Adult 7TL, Student 5TL, Planetarium
- Adult 2TL, children and students 2TL; 20%
discount with Museum Pass.
Web: http://www.rmk-museum.org.tr/en/index.htm
11:50 Chora Church / Kariye Mzesi
1.5 KM, 20 minutes walking from Rahmi Ko Museum
The first church which stood here was constructed in the 4 th century as the Church of the Holy Savior
Outside the Walls. The name Chora means in the country as the church was outside the old city walls in
the countryside. In 413 the church came within the city walls under Emperor Theodosius II. For forty years
following the Ottoman conquest of the city the church was converted into a mosque. The church we see today
dates back to the 11 th century and has undergone several renovations over the years however it is best
known for its murals which date back to 1320. Due to the precious murals the church is now a museum. The
breathtaking murals cover the walls of the chapels, nave and the churchs domes. They depict Mary and
Jesus, Jesus ancestors all the way back to Adam and Biblical scenes. Another mural shows the life of Mary
and others depict the childhood years of Jesus and Jesus ministry. The murals in the nave are of Jesus, Mary
Image By: Gryffindor
as a teacher and the Dormition of Mary. In the Parecclesion (funeral chapel) side chapel there are the tombs Image Source:
of the church founders which are also surrounded by murals. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chora_Church#/media/File:Chora_Chur
Address: Kariye Camii Sokak #26 Edirnekapi,

Istanbul, Turkey.
Phone Number: +90 212 631 9241
Opening Hours: 15 April-Oct - Thurs-Tues
9am-7pm (although usually closed on
Wednesdays at the moment it is open all week);
Nov-March - 9am-5pm
Admission: 15TL; free with Museum Pass
Web: http://www.choramuseum.com/ and
http://kariye.muze.gov.tr/en
12:55 Mihrimah Sultan Mosque / Edirnekapi
0.3 KM, 5 minutes walking from Chora Church
This is a small mosque but one of the most beautiful in the city and often overlooked by tourists. It was
constructed during the Ottoman Era in the Edirnekapi neighborhood on one of the citys seven hills. The
mosque was designed by Mimar Sinan, chief Ottoman architect and civil engineer to three Sultans who was
also responsible for about 300 other important structures. The mosque was completed in 1565 for Suleiman
the Magnificents favorite daughter, Princess Mihrimah. Over the years the mosque was damaged by several
earthquakes and repaired.
The mosque exterior features a courtyard with a covered portico divided into small study rooms. In the center
of the courtyard is an ablution fountain. Seven domes top the entrance porch supported by marble and Image By: Josep Renalias
granite columns. The dome measures 20 meters in diameter and is 35 meters high; it is supported by four Image Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mihrimah_Sultan_Mosque_(Edirnekap%
towers at each corner and windows surround the base. The mosque has one tall, slim minaret. Inside the
central prayer hall is flanked on the north and south sides by a triple arcade supported by columns opening
onto aisles and topped by galleries with domed bay windows. The windows cover most of the upper part of Address: Karagumruk Mh., Edirnekapi-Fatih,
the walls letting in lots of natural light. The interior is light with delicate and sparse decoration. The mosque is 34091, Istanbul, Turkey
part of a complex which includes a few other interesting structures. Opening Hours: Avoid prayer times
Admission: Free
14:00 Fatih Mosque and Complex / Byk Saray Mozaikleri Mzesi
1.6 KM, 21 minutes walking from Mihrimah Sultan Mosque
The Fatih Complex was constructed under Sultan Mehmed II in 1453. The large complex consists of several
structures including eight madrasah or study rooms dedicated to Sahn-I Seman religious learning; the
mosque; a hospice; Turkish bath; library; bazaar and tombs. The complex was designed by Atik Sinan and
built on the ruins of a Byzantine church. The mosque building suffered damage from earthquakes in the
1500s and 1700s and was then rebuilt during the reign of Sultan Mustafa III (1717-1774) and redesigned by
Mehmed Tahir Aga. Little of the original design was preserved and instead the new structure incorporated the
traditional mosque style, Byzantine styles with a more classic style. The mosque has two minarets and the
entrance to the mosque is through an inner courtyard surrounded by 22 mini-domes supported by verd
antique granite columns. The large central dome of the mosque has a diameter of 26 meters and rests on
four smaller domes supported by pillars. The interior decoration was copied from the original design. Included Image By: Lalupa
Image Source:
in the dcor is Arabic calligraphy and although the decoration is simple the mihrab has survived from the https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Fatih_Mosque#/media
original mosque.
Address: Fevzi Pasa Cad., Fatih, Istanbul, 34083

Turkey.
Phone Number: +90 212 512 2320
Opening Hours: Daily except prayer times
Admission: Free
Web:
http://www.ibb.gov.tr/sites/ks/en-US/1-Places-To-Go/mosqu
14:50 Valens Aqueduct / Bozdogan Kemeri
0.5 KM, 7 minutes walking from Fatih Mosque and Complex
This is a Roman Era water conduit which brought water to Constantinople for hundreds of years. The
aqueduct was originally constructed by Roman Emperor Hadrian sometime during his reign from 117 to 138.
Later, the aqueduct we see today was restored and built on the ancient structure between 368 and 375AD
and named Valens after the Roman Emperor at the time. Theodosius I added a second tract sometime
between 347 and 395. Further repairs were made during Justin IIs reign from 520 to 578 and the aqueduct
went on to be used by the Ottomans. The system for bringing water to the city is mostly a series of
underground pipes but above ground are the elegant arches of the aqueduct. The double story row of arches
is approximately 19 meters high and ran for 970 meters of which 625 meters have survived. The aqueduct
spans the valley between the third and fourth hills of Istanbul. In ancient times it would have brought water to
be stored in a cistern built by Theodosius near Beyazit Square. Image By: Public Domain
Image Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valens_Aqueduct#/media/File:Valens_a
Address: Ataturk Blvd., near corner of Cemal

Yener Tosyali Cd., Fatih Istanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: 24/7
Admission: Free
15:25 Sehzade Mosque / Sehzade Klliyesi
0.2 KM, 4 minutes walking from Valens Aqueduct
The Sehzade Camii (Mosque) complex (Klliyesi) was built in the 16 th century in the Fatih district on one of
Istanbuls famous seven hills. The mosque was built during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent in memory
of his favorite son Sehzade Mehmed who died in 1543. For this reason the mosque is sometimes referred to
as the Princes Mosque. The mosque was designed by famed Ottoman architect Sinan.
The entrance to the mosque is via a large colonnaded courtyard and a portico with arches in white and pink
marble on either side. The mosque has twin minarets and the exterior is decorated with bas-relief and
terracotta inlay. The central dome is 19 meters in diameter and is flanked by four half domes and is supported
by pillars at four points. The central dome and semi-domes form the appearance of a four leaf clover when Image By: Muscol
looked at from inside the central prayer hall. Image Source:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Prince%27s_Mosque_
Other structures in the mosque complex include the tomb of Prince Mehmet, two religious schools (medrese),
Address: Sehzadebasi Cad., Fatih, Istanbul,
a soup kitchen and a caravanserai which once acted as a resting place for travelers and their caravans. It is Turkey
worth taking a look at the funeral garden where there are several fascinating burial stones. Opening Hours: Daily except prayer times.
Admission: Free

Istanbul in Four Days Top Attractions

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Istanbul in Four Days Top Attractions

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Istanbul

Istanbul in Four Days Top Attractions

09:50 Hagia Sophia

11:25 Topkapi Palace

14:25 Istanbul Archaeology

Image By: Public Domain

10:50 Museum of Turkish and

12:25 Basilica Cistern

13:20 Grand Bazaar

15:30 Suleymaniye Mosque

Address: Kucuk Ayasofya Mh., 34122

10:55 Istiklal Street

12:05 Istanbul Modern

13:45 Galata Tower

14:55 Galata Bridge

16:00 Spice Bazaar

17:00 Rstem Pasa Klliyesi

with a guided tour. the palace approximately US$46

Address: Istiklal Caddesi, Beyoglu, Istanbul,

Address: Meclis-i Mebusan Cad. Liman

Address: Bereketzade Mh., Galata/Beyoglu,

Address: Misir Carsisi #92, Fatih, Istanbul,

11:50 Chora Church

12:55 Mihrimah Sultan

14:00 Fatih Mosque and

14:50 Valens Aqueduct

15:25 Sehzade Mosque

Address: Kariye Camii Sokak #26 Edirnekapi,

Address: Fevzi Pasa Cad., Fatih, Istanbul, 34083

Address: Ataturk Blvd., near corner of Cemal

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