Istanbul it is an almost magical city, full of cultural contrasts between Europe and Asia, and between East and West. A place that almost everyone has among their trips pending for that attraction that it creates, for its monuments and the natural landscapes of the Bosphorus. As in all our destinations there are those places that you should never miss, even if the trip lasts two days.
This city of Istanbul was the capital of up to three different empires, the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman. A city located in a very strategic place that has continued to be of great interest. If it's you Next destiny write down the essential places you must visit so as not to miss the best of this ancient city.
Hagia Sophia
This is definitely the symbol of istanbul that everyone wants to see when they arrive in town. It was built under the Roman mandate of the Emperor Justinian, between 532 and 537. It is a monument that represents Byzantine art. In addition, it is in the highest area of the city, and its minarets and the great central dome draw attention from other parts of the city.
However, the best comes when we entered Hagia Sophia. The decorative details in the typical golden tones of Byzantine art, the large hanging medallions, the immense dome and the mosaics will make us spend several hours visiting each corner.
Blue Mosque
Built in the seventeenth century, it is the most important mosque of the city, with six tall minarets. To enter it, as in other mosques, we must take off our shoes and enter with our shoulders covered. Sometimes you also have to cover the hair. Its interior is also the most surprising. These mosques are full of details, with a dome in which there are thousands of tiles in blue tones, and fascinating lighting, thanks to hanging lamps and stained glass windows.
Topkapi Palace
This palace has 700.000 square meters, and is the reflection of the imperial power of the sultans during the Ottoman Empire. It was inaugurated in the XNUMXth century and later expanded by different rulers. In this palace there is much to see with its four courtyards and many rooms. The treasure It is one of its most important parts, where you can find very valuable objects, such as the famous topkapi dagger that is the most expensive weapon in the world or the diamond that belonged to Napoleon's mother. The Harem is also one of the places where more people gather to enjoy this palace, a space in which about 700 women and the Queen Mother, the person in charge of the harem, were found.
Basilica Cistern
This name may surprise more than one, and this is the most famous cistern from the city. These cisterns were built so that the city would have water reserves in case of being besieged and attacked by the enemy, and today they constitute an important part of the tourist route. The tourist walk is done by walkways that go above the water that were placed at the end of the 336th century. Before, the boat ride was done, among the XNUMX columns of various styles that support the cistern. It's a haven of peace in bustling Istanbul, no doubt, so it will be a relaxing stop before going to the Grand Bazaar for example.
Galata Tower
To have the best views of Istanbul You can climb this tower, which is one of the oldest in the world. The first was built in wood in 528, but the great width of its walls is striking in this tower. To get there you can take the Tünel Funicular from the Galata Bridge.
Taksim Square
This square is considered as the heart of the city, so it is a must see. In it we can find many bars, restaurants and even luxury shops. From there you can take one of the main commercial avenues of the city, to enjoy a day of shopping, the Istiklal Cadessi or Avenida de la Independencia.
Grand Bazaar
Shopping fans cannot miss a visit to one of the older and larger markets of the world. A market that has about 45.000 square meters full of shops and typical items and other more touristy ones. There are 64 streets and 22 gates to go through, so it will take us a long time. In this place it will be essential to have fun haggling with the vendors.
Spice Bazaar
Those who enjoy gastronomy more have another must-see in the Spice Bazaar or Egyptian Bazaar. A place where they can be found typical products such as nuts, spices of all kinds and sweets. It is undoubtedly a pleasure for the senses, and outside there is a bird and flower market, so there will be no lack of original photographs on this trip.