Turkey's Finest Culture

About Istanbul

Istanbul is an alluring cultural melting pot that spans continents and an unforgettable tourist destination. Turkey’s largest metropolis, Istanbul offers a perfect balance between ancient history, cultural diversity, delightful cuisine, colorful bazaars and markets, and breathtaking sights. 

Istanbul is an alluring cultural melting pot that spans continents and an unforgettable tourist destination. Turkey’s largest metropolis, Istanbul offers a perfect balance between ancient history, cultural diversity, delightful cuisine, colorful bazaars and markets, and breathtaking sights. 

Istanbul takes pride in an extraordinary history dating back over 2,500 years. Once the former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, the city boasts iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, and, if you’re looking for outstanding gastronomy, Turkish cuisine is the crowning jewel of any trip to Istanbul. Allow yourself to indulge in its delightful array of tempting flavors! Here is a rundown of the most outstanding sites and attractions in Istanbul: Hagia Sophia is a fascinating attraction with a rich history. It was originally built as a Greek Orthodox basilica - the Church of the Holy Wisdom – but following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the sultan converted the basilica into a mosque. The building is renowned for its architectural marvels, incorporating domes, massive arches, and numerous decorative elements from both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. Hagia Sophia is shrouded in mystique, and it is considered one of the "Wonders of the Eighth Century." After serving as a museum for many years, it is now open to visitors as a mosque. The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is a stunning example of Istanbul’s most iconic Ottoman architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the city’s leading tourist attractions. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, the mosque opened in 1616, and its nickname - the Blue Mosque- comes from the blue ceramic tiles adorning its interior. Among its outstanding features are its spacious courtyard, six minarets, unique windows, grand dome, and intricately designed interior featuring Iznik tiles - colorful ceramic works originating from the city of Iznik. The surrounding Sultan Ahmed Square is also rich in history and includes additional cultural landmarks such as the German Fountain and the Hippodrome. The mosque is active, so be aware of prayer times when planning your visit! Topkapi Palace served as the administrative and educational center of the Ottoman Empire for close to 400 years, and it was the residence of several sultans, including Sultan Mehmet II and Sultan Abdulmejid. The palace, which resembles an open-air museum, is about 3,229,173 square feet, making it one of the largest palace museums in the world. The mystical corridors of the harem wing offer a glimpse into its secret and intriguing world. There are magnificent rooms, lush courtyards, an extraordinary collection of valuable objects, and a collection of armor and weapons including the Topkapi Dagger and the giant 86-karat Spoonmaker's Diamond. The Grand Bazaar is Istanbul's largest bazaar and a unique cultural and historical hub. The bazaar was built in 1461 after Sultan Mehmet II conquered the city, and it was the first of its kind. The Grand Bazaar has preserved its original atmosphere, enabling visitors to experience authentic Ottoman atmosphere alongside the city’s modern shopping centers. The bazaar is vast with over 4,000 stalls, and each area specializes in specific types of goods including textiles, food, spices, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. The streets are named accordingly for the type of goods it offers. Guided walking tours of both the bazaar and the nearby Spice Market are available.  The Bosphorus Cruise is an unforgettable experience, offering a fascinating boat journey to discover the most magnificent landmarks on the Asian and European borders of the country. The cruise offers breathtaking views of sprawling mansions, imperial palaces, and elegant buildings against the backdrop of the lush shores along the Bosphorus, which shimmer in deep blue hues.   The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is located behind the New Mosque in Eminonu Square. It was built as part of the mosque complex in 1660, funded by Turhan Hatice Sultan through taxes on imported Egyptian goods. The bazaar acquired its name from the spices that arrived from Egypt and were primarily sold here. The bazaar features close to 100 shops, mainly traditional spice merchants. The Basilica Cistern lies hidden beneath the buildings and houses of Istanbul's historic peninsula, concealing an underground world of subterranean water reservoirs that once supplied water to the city. The Basilica Cistern is located west of the Hagia Sophia, and it boasts an impressive capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water as well as softly illuminated columns. There are guided tours of the cistern which lead visitors through its hidden locations – think of the movies "From Russia with Love," starring Sean Connery, and "Inferno" by Dan Brown, starring Tom Hanks which added fame to these concealed gems. The Galata Tower is a historically significant structure that has survived from Istanbul's Genoese settlement. Originally built in the 14th century, it stands tall at the head of Galata's walls, and it offers a splendid view over the Golden Horn from its balcony. Over the years, the tower has undergone multiple restorations. Its location and presence have made it an important and unforgettable landmark that blends well with the city's architectural texture- narrow streets with cobblestone pavements, charming boutiques, and cafes. Located on the southern shore of the Bosphorus in the Beşiktaş district, the mid 19th century Dolmabahçe Palace served as the residence for the last six Ottoman Sultans. It is the largest palace in Turkey and one of the grandest in the world, spanning an impressive area of approximately 484,376 square feet. The palace’s architectural style is heavily influenced by European designs, including elements of Baroque, Rococo, and Neo-Classical styles. After the passing of Atatürk, the palace was converted into a museum, though it is still the venue for official state events. İstiklal Caddesi (Istiklal Avenue) is a renowned and vibrant boulevard that extends from Taksim Square to the Galata Tower in the Beyoğlu district. The street is significant culturally, historically, and commercially, blending architectural styles. It is lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and numerous theaters as well as street performances and festivals. The historic tram adds to the street’s charm. The Süleymaniye Mosque, also known as Suleiman the Magnificent Mosque, is one of the most magnificent imperial mosques in Istanbul and Turkey. It was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the middle of the 16th century at the height of the Ottoman Empire and was designed by the renowned architect Sinan. The mosque is part of a complex that includes a library, an educational institute, tombs, a hospital, and a hospice for the city's poor. The Suleymaniye Hamam, designed and built by the famous Ottoman architect Sinan in the 16th century, is known for its architectural masterpieces. Upon arrival, visitors receive clothing and towels, and the experience begins with relaxation in the hot room on heated marble slabs, helping the body sweat and release toxins. If it gets too hot, you can cool down with water or temporarily move to the cool room. Afterward, a team of experts (for men only) provides a full-body scrub followed by a soap massage and complete body rinsing. After the treatment, you can relax and unwind in the cooling room. Istanbul is also home to additional outstanding museums: The Archaeological Museums of Istanbul (İstanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri) consist of three museums: the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient, and the Tiled Kiosk Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various ancient civilizations. The Chora Museum (Kariye Museum), originally a Byzantine church, boasts stunning Byzantine mosaics and wall paintings. The Istanbul Modern Art Museum (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi) presents works by Turkish artists from the 20th century and beyond. The Rahmi M. Koç Museum is a unique museum that showcases an impressive collection of historical industrial artifacts, transportation vehicles, and maritime items. The Pera Museum, located in Beyoğlu, displays a wide range of art, including Oriental paintings, Anatolian weights, and contemporary art exhibitions. The Sakıp Sabancı Museum is situated on a picturesque estate on the Bosphorus, and it presents a collection of Ottoman calligraphy, paintings, and decorative arts. The Istanbul Maritime Museum (Deniz Müzesi) is located in Beşiktaş, and it displays a comprehensive collection of maritime artifacts, including ships, weapons, and navigation devices. The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (Türk ve İslam Eserleri Müzesi) is situated in the İbrahim Paşa Palace, and it offers a rich collection of Islamic calligraphy, ceramics, carpets, and textiles. Additional recommended markets: The Kadıköy Market is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, and it offers a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, olives, and street food. It is a lively and authentic local market, giving a glimpse into the daily life of the locals in Istanbul. The Arasta Bazaar is situated near the Blue Mosque.  It is a smaller and quieter market compared than the Grand Bazaar, offering a charming selection of Turkish carpets, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Sahaflar Çarşısı (the Secondhand Book Market) is a must-visit for book lovers and collectors. The market is filled with vendors selling new and secondhand books, old maps, prints, and calligraphy. Çiçek Pasajı (the Flower Passage) was originally built in the 19th century as a flower market and is now a covered arcade lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. It is a wonderful place to enjoy a meal or a drink in a historic setting. The Çarşamba Market takes place on Wednesdays in the Fatih district. It is a local bazaar where you can experience a more authentic and traditional side of Istanbul, and you’ll find fresh produce, textiles, clothing, and household items. The Feriköy Organic Market is open on Sundays and sells organic and locally sourced products. It is a great place to taste organic food, purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, and support local farmers. The Mahmutpaşa Bazaar is located near the Grand Bazaar. Popular among tourists, it is a bustling and colorful market with an impressive array of clothing, textiles, and accessories at reasonable prices.  The Feriköy Flea Market takes place on Sundays in the Feriköy neighborhood, and it is a treasure trove for vintage enthusiasts. The market has antiques, retro furniture, vintage clothing, old books, and collectibles. The Bomonti Flea Market takes place on Saturdays and Sundays, offering a mix of vintage and secondhand items. From clothing and accessories to vinyl records, toys, and home decor, it is the place to find rare items. The Çukurcuma Antique Market is an antique quarter in Istanbul with numerous antique shops and boutiques. Though not a traditional market, its streets are filled with vintage furniture, art, ceramics, and other unique collectibles. Balat Flea Market is a small flea market, open on Sundays, located in the colorful Balat neighborhood. You can stroll through vendors selling various items, including clothing, books, vinyl records, and household items. The Horhor Antique Market is primarily an antique market, but it also offers new items. You can test your bargaining skills on antiques, vintage products, and collectibles. Food and Cuisine: Here are some not-to-be-missed Turkish specialties! From succulent shish kebabs to flavorful Adana kebabs, Istanbul is renowned for its grilled meat dishes. Try the popular İskender kebab, made with thinly sliced meat served over a bed of pita and topped with tomato sauce and melted butter. Dolma is a popular Turkish dish served as an appetizer or main course. The word "dolma" means "stuffed," and it usually consists of vegetables or grape leaves filled with a tasty mixture of rice, minced meat, herbs, and spices. Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast (Kahvaltı), featuring an assortment of cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, honey, jams, and eggs. Menemen, a delicious dish made with scrambled eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and spices, is a Turkish breakfast favorite. A beloved Turkish dessert, baklava is made of thin layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweet syrup or honey, then baked until golden and crispy. Known for its rich, nutty flavor and sweet, sticky texture, baklava is often topped with powdered sugar or cinnamon. Head to the Eminönü or Karaköy districts and enjoy Balık ekmek, a fish sandwich made with fresh fish, onions, and lettuce, served in crispy bread. Try different flavors of Turkish delight (Lokum), delightful sweets made from sugar, starch, and flavorings like rosewater, pomegranate, or pistachio. Experience the traditional method of preparing and serving Turkish coffee. This rich and strong coffee is typically accompanied by a small glass of water. Sometimes called "Turkish pizza," lahmacun is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and spices, and it is a popular street food. As you wander the streets of Istanbul, taste simit, a round sesame bread often enjoyed with a glass of Turkish tea. Small appetizers or side dishes, known as meze, include offerings such as stuffed grape leaves (Dolma), eggplant dishes, and yogurt-based dips. Enjoy Turkish ice cream, dondurma, with its unique texture and various flavors. Take a break during your city tour and savor a cup of traditional Turkish black tea (cay), served in colorful traditional glasses. Similar to pizza, pide is a boat-shaped flatbread topped with various ingredients such as minced meat, cheese, vegetables, or eggs. Istanbul, a dynamic city where history and culture seamlessly blend with modernity and vibrant energy, boasts a rich tapestry of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re drawn to its historic sites, bustling markets, or culinary delights, Istanbul promises an unforgettable journey through time and culture.

About Canakkale

Canakkale is a city and seaport in Turkey, in Canakkale Province, on the southern (Asian) coast of the Dardanelles at their narrowest point, having territory in both Europe and Asia. Ferries cross there to the northern (European) side of the strait. The city is the nearest major town to the site of ancient Troy. The "wooden horse" from the 2004 movie Troy is exhibited on the seafront. Canakkale is the second city to be situated on two continents after Istanbul. Some points of interest include Military Marine Museum, Cimenlik Castle, Trojan Horse, Canakkale Archaeological Museum, as well as the gorgeous beach.

Canakkale is a city and seaport in Turkey, in Canakkale Province, on the southern (Asian) coast of the Dardanelles at their narrowest point, having territory in both Europe and Asia. Ferries cross there to the northern (European) side of the strait. The city is the nearest major town to the site of ancient Troy. The "wooden horse" from the 2004 movie Troy is exhibited on the seafront. Canakkale is the second city to be situated on two continents after Istanbul. Some points of interest include Military Marine Museum, Cimenlik Castle, Trojan Horse, Canakkale Archaeological Museum, as well as the gorgeous beach.

About Kusadasi

Kusadasi is a resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast, and the center of the seaside district of the same name within Aydin Province. The area has been a centre of art and culture since some of the earliest recorded history, and has been settled by many civilizations since being founded by the Leleges people in 3000 BC. The Roman Empire took possession of the coast in the 2nd century BC and made it their provincial capital in the early years of Christianity. Its main attractions include the city walls with its gates, Kusadasi Castle, Kaleisi Camii, the Okuz Mehmed Pasha Caravanserai, as well as nearby national parks and aquaparks.

Kusadasi is a resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast, and the center of the seaside district of the same name within Aydin Province. The area has been a centre of art and culture since some of the earliest recorded history, and has been settled by many civilizations since being founded by the Leleges people in 3000 BC. The Roman Empire took possession of the coast in the 2nd century BC and made it their provincial capital in the early years of Christianity. Its main attractions include the city walls with its gates, Kusadasi Castle, Kaleisi Camii, the Okuz Mehmed Pasha Caravanserai, as well as nearby national parks and aquaparks.

About Denizli

Denizli is a growing industrial city in the southwestern part of Turkey and the eastern end of the alluvial valley formed by the river Buyuk Mendere. Denizli attracts many visitors to the nearby mineral-coated hillside hot spring of Pamukkale, and with red color thermal water spa hotels Karahayit, just 5km north of Pamukkale. Recently, Denizli becomes a major domestic tourism destination due to the various types of thermal waters. Nearby archaeological sites include the ancient ruined city of Hierapolis, as well as ruins of the city of Laodicea on the Lycus, the ancient metropolis of Phrygia. Another attraction that may draw interest is the Ataturk and Ethnography Museum.

Denizli is a growing industrial city in the southwestern part of Turkey and the eastern end of the alluvial valley formed by the river Buyuk Mendere. Denizli attracts many visitors to the nearby mineral-coated hillside hot spring of Pamukkale, and with red color thermal water spa hotels Karahayit, just 5km north of Pamukkale. Recently, Denizli becomes a major domestic tourism destination due to the various types of thermal waters. Nearby archaeological sites include the ancient ruined city of Hierapolis, as well as ruins of the city of Laodicea on the Lycus, the ancient metropolis of Phrygia. Another attraction that may draw interest is the Ataturk and Ethnography Museum.

About Konya

Konya is a city in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey. It is the seventh most populous city in Turkey. Konya is an economically and industrially developed city and the capital of Konya Province. Major landmarks include the Mevlana Museum, Aladdin Mosque, Ince Minaret Medrese-Museum, Karatay Medrese-Museum, Aziziye Mosque, Konya Ethnography Museum, İzzet Koyunoglu City Museum, and the St. Paul's Catholic Church at Alaeddin Hill.

Konya is a city in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey. It is the seventh most populous city in Turkey. Konya is an economically and industrially developed city and the capital of Konya Province. Major landmarks include the Mevlana Museum, Aladdin Mosque, Ince Minaret Medrese-Museum, Karatay Medrese-Museum, Aziziye Mosque, Konya Ethnography Museum, İzzet Koyunoglu City Museum, and the St. Paul's Catholic Church at Alaeddin Hill.

About Avanos

Avanos is a town and district of Nevsehir Province in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey, located within the historic and tourist region of Cappadocia. The old city of Avanos overlooks the longest river of Turkey, the Kizilirmak, which also separates Avanos from the rest of Cappadocia. The most famous historical feature of the town, still relevant and very visible today, is its production of earthenware pottery. The ceramic trade in this district date back to the Hittites, and the ceramic clay from the red silt of the Kizilirmak has always been used. It is a popular destination because of its attractive old town with cobbled streets, and views over the river.

Avanos is a town and district of Nevsehir Province in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey, located within the historic and tourist region of Cappadocia. The old city of Avanos overlooks the longest river of Turkey, the Kizilirmak, which also separates Avanos from the rest of Cappadocia. The most famous historical feature of the town, still relevant and very visible today, is its production of earthenware pottery. The ceramic trade in this district date back to the Hittites, and the ceramic clay from the red silt of the Kizilirmak has always been used. It is a popular destination because of its attractive old town with cobbled streets, and views over the river.

About Ankara

Ankara is the capital of Turkey, located in Central Anatolia, and is Turkey's second largest city behind Istanbul. The city replaced Istanbul as the capital following the fall of the Ottoman Empire. Giving its name to the Angora wool shorn from rabbits, goats, and cats, Ankara is also known for its pears, honey, and muscat grapes. It is a virtual treasure trove of various archaeological sites, as well as home to nearly 50 museums, many parks, and beautiful mosques.

Ankara is the capital of Turkey, located in Central Anatolia, and is Turkey's second largest city behind Istanbul. The city replaced Istanbul as the capital following the fall of the Ottoman Empire. Giving its name to the Angora wool shorn from rabbits, goats, and cats, Ankara is also known for its pears, honey, and muscat grapes. It is a virtual treasure trove of various archaeological sites, as well as home to nearly 50 museums, many parks, and beautiful mosques.

About Bursa

Bursa is a large city in Turkey, located in northwestern Anatolia, within the Marmara Region. It is the fourth most populous city in Turkey and one of the most industrialized metropolitan centers in the country. It has become proliferated with parks and gardens located across its urban fabric, as well as to the vast and richly varied forests of the surrounding region. Bursa has rather orderly urban growth and borders a fertile plain. The mausoleums of the early Ottoman sultans are located in Bursa and the city's main landmarks include numerous edifices built throughout the Ottoman period. Bursa also has thermal baths and several museums, including a museum of archaeology.

Bursa is a large city in Turkey, located in northwestern Anatolia, within the Marmara Region. It is the fourth most populous city in Turkey and one of the most industrialized metropolitan centers in the country. It has become proliferated with parks and gardens located across its urban fabric, as well as to the vast and richly varied forests of the surrounding region. Bursa has rather orderly urban growth and borders a fertile plain. The mausoleums of the early Ottoman sultans are located in Bursa and the city's main landmarks include numerous edifices built throughout the Ottoman period. Bursa also has thermal baths and several museums, including a museum of archaeology.

About Istanbul

Istanbul is an alluring cultural melting pot that spans continents and an unforgettable tourist destination. Turkey’s largest metropolis, Istanbul offers a perfect balance between ancient history, cultural diversity, delightful cuisine, colorful bazaars and markets, and breathtaking sights. 

Istanbul is an alluring cultural melting pot that spans continents and an unforgettable tourist destination. Turkey’s largest metropolis, Istanbul offers a perfect balance between ancient history, cultural diversity, delightful cuisine, colorful bazaars and markets, and breathtaking sights. 

Istanbul takes pride in an extraordinary history dating back over 2,500 years. Once the former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, the city boasts iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, and, if you’re looking for outstanding gastronomy, Turkish cuisine is the crowning jewel of any trip to Istanbul. Allow yourself to indulge in its delightful array of tempting flavors! Here is a rundown of the most outstanding sites and attractions in Istanbul: Hagia Sophia is a fascinating attraction with a rich history. It was originally built as a Greek Orthodox basilica - the Church of the Holy Wisdom – but following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the sultan converted the basilica into a mosque. The building is renowned for its architectural marvels, incorporating domes, massive arches, and numerous decorative elements from both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. Hagia Sophia is shrouded in mystique, and it is considered one of the "Wonders of the Eighth Century." After serving as a museum for many years, it is now open to visitors as a mosque. The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is a stunning example of Istanbul’s most iconic Ottoman architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the city’s leading tourist attractions. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, the mosque opened in 1616, and its nickname - the Blue Mosque- comes from the blue ceramic tiles adorning its interior. Among its outstanding features are its spacious courtyard, six minarets, unique windows, grand dome, and intricately designed interior featuring Iznik tiles - colorful ceramic works originating from the city of Iznik. The surrounding Sultan Ahmed Square is also rich in history and includes additional cultural landmarks such as the German Fountain and the Hippodrome. The mosque is active, so be aware of prayer times when planning your visit! Topkapi Palace served as the administrative and educational center of the Ottoman Empire for close to 400 years, and it was the residence of several sultans, including Sultan Mehmet II and Sultan Abdulmejid. The palace, which resembles an open-air museum, is about 3,229,173 square feet, making it one of the largest palace museums in the world. The mystical corridors of the harem wing offer a glimpse into its secret and intriguing world. There are magnificent rooms, lush courtyards, an extraordinary collection of valuable objects, and a collection of armor and weapons including the Topkapi Dagger and the giant 86-karat Spoonmaker's Diamond. The Grand Bazaar is Istanbul's largest bazaar and a unique cultural and historical hub. The bazaar was built in 1461 after Sultan Mehmet II conquered the city, and it was the first of its kind. The Grand Bazaar has preserved its original atmosphere, enabling visitors to experience authentic Ottoman atmosphere alongside the city’s modern shopping centers. The bazaar is vast with over 4,000 stalls, and each area specializes in specific types of goods including textiles, food, spices, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. The streets are named accordingly for the type of goods it offers. Guided walking tours of both the bazaar and the nearby Spice Market are available.  The Bosphorus Cruise is an unforgettable experience, offering a fascinating boat journey to discover the most magnificent landmarks on the Asian and European borders of the country. The cruise offers breathtaking views of sprawling mansions, imperial palaces, and elegant buildings against the backdrop of the lush shores along the Bosphorus, which shimmer in deep blue hues.   The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is located behind the New Mosque in Eminonu Square. It was built as part of the mosque complex in 1660, funded by Turhan Hatice Sultan through taxes on imported Egyptian goods. The bazaar acquired its name from the spices that arrived from Egypt and were primarily sold here. The bazaar features close to 100 shops, mainly traditional spice merchants. The Basilica Cistern lies hidden beneath the buildings and houses of Istanbul's historic peninsula, concealing an underground world of subterranean water reservoirs that once supplied water to the city. The Basilica Cistern is located west of the Hagia Sophia, and it boasts an impressive capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water as well as softly illuminated columns. There are guided tours of the cistern which lead visitors through its hidden locations – think of the movies "From Russia with Love," starring Sean Connery, and "Inferno" by Dan Brown, starring Tom Hanks which added fame to these concealed gems. The Galata Tower is a historically significant structure that has survived from Istanbul's Genoese settlement. Originally built in the 14th century, it stands tall at the head of Galata's walls, and it offers a splendid view over the Golden Horn from its balcony. Over the years, the tower has undergone multiple restorations. Its location and presence have made it an important and unforgettable landmark that blends well with the city's architectural texture- narrow streets with cobblestone pavements, charming boutiques, and cafes. Located on the southern shore of the Bosphorus in the Beşiktaş district, the mid 19th century Dolmabahçe Palace served as the residence for the last six Ottoman Sultans. It is the largest palace in Turkey and one of the grandest in the world, spanning an impressive area of approximately 484,376 square feet. The palace’s architectural style is heavily influenced by European designs, including elements of Baroque, Rococo, and Neo-Classical styles. After the passing of Atatürk, the palace was converted into a museum, though it is still the venue for official state events. İstiklal Caddesi (Istiklal Avenue) is a renowned and vibrant boulevard that extends from Taksim Square to the Galata Tower in the Beyoğlu district. The street is significant culturally, historically, and commercially, blending architectural styles. It is lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and numerous theaters as well as street performances and festivals. The historic tram adds to the street’s charm. The Süleymaniye Mosque, also known as Suleiman the Magnificent Mosque, is one of the most magnificent imperial mosques in Istanbul and Turkey. It was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the middle of the 16th century at the height of the Ottoman Empire and was designed by the renowned architect Sinan. The mosque is part of a complex that includes a library, an educational institute, tombs, a hospital, and a hospice for the city's poor. The Suleymaniye Hamam, designed and built by the famous Ottoman architect Sinan in the 16th century, is known for its architectural masterpieces. Upon arrival, visitors receive clothing and towels, and the experience begins with relaxation in the hot room on heated marble slabs, helping the body sweat and release toxins. If it gets too hot, you can cool down with water or temporarily move to the cool room. Afterward, a team of experts (for men only) provides a full-body scrub followed by a soap massage and complete body rinsing. After the treatment, you can relax and unwind in the cooling room. Istanbul is also home to additional outstanding museums: The Archaeological Museums of Istanbul (İstanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri) consist of three museums: the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient, and the Tiled Kiosk Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various ancient civilizations. The Chora Museum (Kariye Museum), originally a Byzantine church, boasts stunning Byzantine mosaics and wall paintings. The Istanbul Modern Art Museum (Istanbul Modern Sanat Müzesi) presents works by Turkish artists from the 20th century and beyond. The Rahmi M. Koç Museum is a unique museum that showcases an impressive collection of historical industrial artifacts, transportation vehicles, and maritime items. The Pera Museum, located in Beyoğlu, displays a wide range of art, including Oriental paintings, Anatolian weights, and contemporary art exhibitions. The Sakıp Sabancı Museum is situated on a picturesque estate on the Bosphorus, and it presents a collection of Ottoman calligraphy, paintings, and decorative arts. The Istanbul Maritime Museum (Deniz Müzesi) is located in Beşiktaş, and it displays a comprehensive collection of maritime artifacts, including ships, weapons, and navigation devices. The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (Türk ve İslam Eserleri Müzesi) is situated in the İbrahim Paşa Palace, and it offers a rich collection of Islamic calligraphy, ceramics, carpets, and textiles. Additional recommended markets: The Kadıköy Market is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, and it offers a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, olives, and street food. It is a lively and authentic local market, giving a glimpse into the daily life of the locals in Istanbul. The Arasta Bazaar is situated near the Blue Mosque.  It is a smaller and quieter market compared than the Grand Bazaar, offering a charming selection of Turkish carpets, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Sahaflar Çarşısı (the Secondhand Book Market) is a must-visit for book lovers and collectors. The market is filled with vendors selling new and secondhand books, old maps, prints, and calligraphy. Çiçek Pasajı (the Flower Passage) was originally built in the 19th century as a flower market and is now a covered arcade lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. It is a wonderful place to enjoy a meal or a drink in a historic setting. The Çarşamba Market takes place on Wednesdays in the Fatih district. It is a local bazaar where you can experience a more authentic and traditional side of Istanbul, and you’ll find fresh produce, textiles, clothing, and household items. The Feriköy Organic Market is open on Sundays and sells organic and locally sourced products. It is a great place to taste organic food, purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, and support local farmers. The Mahmutpaşa Bazaar is located near the Grand Bazaar. Popular among tourists, it is a bustling and colorful market with an impressive array of clothing, textiles, and accessories at reasonable prices.  The Feriköy Flea Market takes place on Sundays in the Feriköy neighborhood, and it is a treasure trove for vintage enthusiasts. The market has antiques, retro furniture, vintage clothing, old books, and collectibles. The Bomonti Flea Market takes place on Saturdays and Sundays, offering a mix of vintage and secondhand items. From clothing and accessories to vinyl records, toys, and home decor, it is the place to find rare items. The Çukurcuma Antique Market is an antique quarter in Istanbul with numerous antique shops and boutiques. Though not a traditional market, its streets are filled with vintage furniture, art, ceramics, and other unique collectibles. Balat Flea Market is a small flea market, open on Sundays, located in the colorful Balat neighborhood. You can stroll through vendors selling various items, including clothing, books, vinyl records, and household items. The Horhor Antique Market is primarily an antique market, but it also offers new items. You can test your bargaining skills on antiques, vintage products, and collectibles. Food and Cuisine: Here are some not-to-be-missed Turkish specialties! From succulent shish kebabs to flavorful Adana kebabs, Istanbul is renowned for its grilled meat dishes. Try the popular İskender kebab, made with thinly sliced meat served over a bed of pita and topped with tomato sauce and melted butter. Dolma is a popular Turkish dish served as an appetizer or main course. The word "dolma" means "stuffed," and it usually consists of vegetables or grape leaves filled with a tasty mixture of rice, minced meat, herbs, and spices. Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast (Kahvaltı), featuring an assortment of cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, honey, jams, and eggs. Menemen, a delicious dish made with scrambled eggs, tomatoes, peppers, and spices, is a Turkish breakfast favorite. A beloved Turkish dessert, baklava is made of thin layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweet syrup or honey, then baked until golden and crispy. Known for its rich, nutty flavor and sweet, sticky texture, baklava is often topped with powdered sugar or cinnamon. Head to the Eminönü or Karaköy districts and enjoy Balık ekmek, a fish sandwich made with fresh fish, onions, and lettuce, served in crispy bread. Try different flavors of Turkish delight (Lokum), delightful sweets made from sugar, starch, and flavorings like rosewater, pomegranate, or pistachio. Experience the traditional method of preparing and serving Turkish coffee. This rich and strong coffee is typically accompanied by a small glass of water. Sometimes called "Turkish pizza," lahmacun is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and spices, and it is a popular street food. As you wander the streets of Istanbul, taste simit, a round sesame bread often enjoyed with a glass of Turkish tea. Small appetizers or side dishes, known as meze, include offerings such as stuffed grape leaves (Dolma), eggplant dishes, and yogurt-based dips. Enjoy Turkish ice cream, dondurma, with its unique texture and various flavors. Take a break during your city tour and savor a cup of traditional Turkish black tea (cay), served in colorful traditional glasses. Similar to pizza, pide is a boat-shaped flatbread topped with various ingredients such as minced meat, cheese, vegetables, or eggs. Istanbul, a dynamic city where history and culture seamlessly blend with modernity and vibrant energy, boasts a rich tapestry of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re drawn to its historic sites, bustling markets, or culinary delights, Istanbul promises an unforgettable journey through time and culture.