If you’re considering a vacation then you need to think outside the box. Istanbul may not be the first place that springs to mind but it is surprisingly affordable with cheap flights in Istanbul and there are a number of stunning attractions that you simply have to visit.
This city is modern and ancient at the same time; managing to stay true to its roots while moving with modern times. That’s an accomplishment in itself!
Galata Tower
This tower literally towers over the city, it sits at 219 feet high and dwarfs the buildings around it. In fact, it’s a great spot to view the entire city.
The fact that it is home to a café, restaurant, and a nightclub makes it even more spectacular and worth a visit.
Archaeological Museum
This is actually considered to be one of the most important museums in Turkey. It’s actually 3 museums in one, covering tiled kiosk, ancient orient, and archaeology.
It was started in 1891 and has important artifacts from around the world.
Chora Church
You’ll find some impressive mosaics and frescoes in this former monastery that is estimated to be over 1,000 years old.
It is a little off the usual tourist trail but it is worth it!
Basilica Cistern
This is the source of the water for Istanbul and has been since the 6th century. Once you’ve experienced it you’ll be amazed at the technology that the Romans actually created and manipulated.
It can actually hold 2.8 million cubic feet of water.
Dolmabahce Palace
The word luxurious doesn’t really do this palace justice. In fact, it is on a scale comparable to the Palace of Versailles with 14 tons of gold leaf used in its build during the 19th century.
You’ll notice a bend of Ottoman architecture with a variety of European styles from the same period; making it a truly multicultural and stunning building.
Suleymaniye Mosque
You’ll feel spiritual when you visit this beautiful mosque; it has a serenity that is impossible to describe. It was originally constructed in the 16th century but has been damaged several times in the years since. In fact, it was only properly restored in the middle of the 20th century.
Grand Bazaar
This is the shopping experience of a lifetime and it’s inside a traditional building dating from the 15th century.
In fact, it is one of the largest indoor marketplaces you’ll find anywhere in the world. There are hundreds of market stalls, two mosques, two steam baths, and four fountains; all inside this amazing building.
Blue Mosque
This mosque was built in the 17th century and is still in active use today, choose your visiting time carefully! Because it’s an active mosque you’ll need to remove your shoes and women will have to cover their hair.
But it’s worth it to see the 20,000 tiles in tulip designs and 200 stain glass windows!
Hagia Sophia
You may be surprised to discover that this house of worship has been the home of several different religions over the years.
This makes it a fascinating mix of architecture, the building is now a museum that gives you an insight into religions in Istanbul over the ages. You’ll also be impressed by the Byzantine architecture.
Whatever your preference, it’s tie you grabbed your cheap flights Istanbul and explored this fascinating city.
Find your flights to Istanbul at Sky-Tours.
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