Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Considered as the epitome of Byzantine time, Hagia Sophia is one of the most important architectural achievements of all times, and the fact that is was built in AD 537 makes it even more impressive. Easily recognized by its majestic and flat dome, Hagia Sophia is certainly number one on the must-see list of any visitor.

Welcome to what has been the heart of the Ottoman Empire. It has served as the residence of the sultans and their women for over centuries. With its mystical harem, countless chambers, spacious grounds and courtyards, the exquisite jewel collection and much more, this glorious palace is undoubtedly one of Istanbul’s top offerings.

With its six minarets and dominating position in the skyline of old Istanbul, it is one of the most famous and visited monuments in the city.

Properly known as Sultanahmet Camii, this impressive mosque is widely called “the Blue Mosque” due to the blue Iznik tiles that adorn the interior.

Covering a vast area of 60 laneways, 5,000 shops and caravanserais, the Grand Bazaar is one the biggest and the most hospitable bazaars of the world; after all, it welcomes around 250,000 to 400,000 guests daily! Mixing all the different tones, tunes and colors of the city into a unique blend of scenes, your day in the Grand Bazaar will remain with you forever.

Mint, thyme, saffron, cumin – but also nuts, jams, lokum with the widest range of flavors. Whatever there is edible in this city, Spice Market has it. Covered like the Grand Bazaar, Spice Market is smaller in size but certainly just as interesting and stunning as his bigger brother.

Recognised as the masterpiece of the famous 16th-century architect Mimar Sinan, this magnificent mosque certainly lives up to his commissioning emperor, Suleyman I, The Magnificent. Having survived numerous earthquakes and other disasters, Suleymaniye Mosque is one the most inspiring places in the city for Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

Once the highest building in the city, this cylindrical building has witnessed times of wealth and peace since 1348, but also social rebellions, natural disasters, fires, wars and more. Take a deep breath, climb the stairs and let it whisper its memories to you.

Whether approached from the land or the sea, this 19th-century palace welcomes the visitor with a magnificent presence. Since the palace has survived intact with its original decorations, furniture, silk carpets and curtains, a stroll through its impressive halls is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

With its 336 columns and a capacity to store up to 80,000 cubic metres of water, Basilica Cistern is the largest surviving Byzantine cistern. Since its renovation in the 1980s, it is one of most impressive and mesmerizing historical landmarks Istanbul has to offer.