Istanbul

The Galata Tower is a medieval stone tower in the Galata/Karaköy quarter of Istanbul, just to the north of the Golden Horn's junction with the Bosphorus. The top floor of the tower is located at a height of 52 metres and houses an observation deck. It is unlikely that you will find a better lookout spot in all of the city; it's simply stunning. The tower is one of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul and is a very popular destination. It's a good idea to come early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

The palace of the sultans with its many courtyards and gates brings on a nostalgia for forgone times. There are several special museums in the area; highlights include the Treasure Chamber, where the famous dagger and Spoonmaker's diamond are true stars of the collection, and the harem, where the sultan’s wives and children lived. None of these are included in the ticket price to the palace.

Built at the beginning of the 16th century during the rule of Sultan Ahmet I, this grandiose mosque seamlessly combines Ottoman and Byzantine architectural styles. The building is known for its six minarets and was given its nickname for the 20,000 blue tiles adorning the interior. These tiles were made in Iznik, an area that was famous during the Ottoman Empire for its expert production of ceramic tiles.

The Grand Bazaar attracts many people, far too many if you come at rush hour. It’s a good idea to arrive early in the morning and enjoy a cup of tea in one of the cafes whilst the bazaar comes to life. There are thousands of stalls, selling virtually everything, carpets, gold, cloth, spices and more. The bazaar is a world of its own and it’s easy and fun to get lost in the teeming alleyways.

Moda district of Kadiköy has a certain bohemian and alternative vibe. Once the sun begins to set, locals and visitors of the area head down towards the Marmara sea. People stroll up and down the footpaths, jog, bike, pet cats, have picnics, whatever floats your boat on this grassy stretch of parkland. Vendors frequently pass by selling sunflower seeds, snacks, water, and beer.

Arter is a non-profit centre that displays modern art in a gorgeous modern building with a fabulous façade, in stark contrast with comparatively dilapidated old buildings in the area. A must for fans of contemporary art. Every single visitor is impressed by the bookstore. The art centre also has a lovely cafe with a terrace.

Süleymaniye is the largest mosque dating from 1557 and also contains the mausoleum of sultan Süleyman and his wife Roxelane. The master architect Mimar Sinan built many of Istanbul’s mosques during the 1500s and is buried next to the mosque. This is one of the best-known sights of Istanbul, and from its location on the Third Hill, it commands an extensive view of the city around the Golden Horn. If you have seen a photo of Istanbul taken from a ferry, most likely Süleymaniye is right in the middle of the composition.

SALT Beyoğlu is a six-story building on the central shopping İstiklal street. In this historic building you'll find selected artworks and small-scale exhibitions that are ever changing to reflect the fast-paced rhythm of the modern world. Check this art space's Walk-in Cinema, a platform for screenings, talks, workshops, and performances. While you're in the area, also check out SALT Galata, an equally wonderful sister project of SALT Beyoğlu with a cafe and a library with free Wi-Fi.

Emirgan Park is one of the oldest and largest parks in Istanbul. There are several playgrounds for children, trails for hiking and picnic tables. Every April there is a Tulip Festival, a period when the park is surrounded by blossomed tulips.

This is a well organised aquarium with species from all over the world and is a great family attraction as well as a popular tourist sight. It offers approximately 1.500 species, 15.000 land and sea creatures in total. When you are feeling hungry or thirsty you will find a café inside.

The first museum in Turkey dedicated to the history of transport. The collection contains full size ships, aircrafts, trains and cars. This is a great place to explore and learn something new for both children and adults.

Dolmabahçe Palace is a white stone behemoth located in the Beşiktaş district and overlooks the Bosphorus. It used to serve as the main administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1887 and from 1909 to 1922. Some visitors compare it with Versailles and Hermitage.

The Monastery was founded in the 5th century and contains beautiful frescos and mosaics dating from 1000–1300, representing Virgin Mary and the life of Jesus. This medieval Greek Orthodox church is used as a mosque today.

The Bosphorus Sunset Cruise offers a scenic and relaxing two-hour afternoon journey along one of Istanbul’s most iconic waterways. The semi-private cruise is excellent value for money, with a small group setting and attentive, professional crew. Snacks, water and coffee are included in the price.