See All in Istanbul in Just One Day

Prepare yourself for a busy day out! Follow this itinerary to see Istanbul's most beautiful sights and markets.

Start your day by exploring the 15th-century Topkapı Palace, a former sultans' residence. Nowadays, the complex houses collections of various precious artifacts, namely the cloak and sword owned by Muhammed. Continue to Hagia Sophia, also know as the Chruch of the Divine Wisdon. Although originally a place of worship, it has been opened to the public as a museum since 1935. Next stop is another dominant of the old part of Istanbul - Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Also called the Blue Mosque, it is one of the most popular sights in the city.

After leaving the mosque, head to Grand Bazaar, a major shopping location where you can hunt for fairly priced souvenirs, smashing golden jewelry or clothes. Then, cross Galata Bridge - an iconic two-story bridge which links two parts of Istanbul historically divided by both culture and faith. It offers great views onto the Golden Horn Bay way down to the Bosphorus. Then, visit Galata Tower which has dominated the skyline of Istanbul since the 14th century. If you make the effort and climb the stairs, you will be rewarded with amazing panoramic views.

Finish your day on Taksim Square, the centre of the modern part of Istanbul. It is dominated by a sculpture commemorating the first Turkish president and an important figure in the process of founding the Turkish democracy, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. There are also plenty of shops, bars and luxurious hotels surrounding the square. For the hungry traveler, there are also just as many restaurants.