Istanbul: 7 reasons to visit Turkey's biggest city
Sprawling, bustling, thrilling: Istanbul sits astride two continents and offers a wealth of cultural experiences, from ancient ruins to glorious mosques to romantic boat trips on the Bosphorus. And best of all, there are no Covid-19 restrictions for Britons (at time of writing).
Here are some of the most exciting things to do in Turkey's largest city.
Aya Sofya
Arguably one of the world's most beautiful buildings, this Byzantine basilica was built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century.
Witness its majestic dome, its vast nave, and its dazzling array of gold mosaics.
Step back in time and absorb the many events that took place here; the Aya Sofya has been looted by Crusaders and stormed by Ottoman invaders - it's a genuine must-see while in Turkey.
Topkapı Palace
Located on the promontory of Istanbul's Old City, this vast Ottoman palace complex is packed with the vestiges of long-dead sultans. Relics of their intrigue and excess lie everywhere.
See the jaw-dropping Imperial Council Chamber, the ginormous Harem, the artefact-packed Imperial Treasury and the charming Marble Terrace.
Süleymaniye Mosque
Built between 1550 and 1557 for Süleyman the Magnificent, the Süleymaniye Mosque is, given its sponsor's name, suitably opulent.
Locals still use the külliye (mosque complex) buildings, meaning this ancient mosque still lies at the heart of city life - making it all the more magical.
Bosphorus boat trip
Hop on the Bosphorus tourist ferry and ply the route between the great strait from Eminönü towards the mouth of the Black Sea.
Spot parks, palaces and mighty timber mansions as you travel between Asia and Europe.
A quintessential Istanbul experience.
Basilica Cistern
Featured in From Russia with Love, the Basilica Cistern is imbued with cinematic grandeur.
This huge subterranean cistern - just across from Aya Sofia - comprises 336 columns, lending the place a uniquely awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Gaze up up the vaulted brick ceilings and Medusa-head carvings, and down at the mystical cruising carp in the few remaining pools.
Bazaar shopping trips
Begin your Istanbul shopping spree in the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, where all manner of souvenirs and mementos await.
After this, head downhill to the Tahtakale shopping zone, being sure not to miss the fragrant Spice Bazaar.
If you're still not shopped-out, return uphill towards the Blue Mosque and browse the connected row of shops (arasta) that lie beside it.
Evening pleasures in Beyoğlu
After all that sightseeing, you'll need to relax and unwind. And there's no better place for that than the rooftop bars of bohemian Beyoğlu.
You'll find everything from traditional taverns to fireside kebap eateries, European-style nightclubs to laidback cafes.
Looking for inspiration for Turkish foods you should try on your trip to Istanbul? Here's our pick of 20 dishes to try on your Turkish Holiday.
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