{"id":673703,"date":"2022-11-19T19:44:00","date_gmt":"2022-11-19T16:44:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tourism.com.de\/?p=673703"},"modified":"2024-04-21T03:38:56","modified_gmt":"2024-04-21T00:38:56","slug":"what-to-see-in-istanbul-in-1-day-on-your-own-route-photo-description-map","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tourism.com.de\/en\/what-to-see-in-istanbul-in-1-day-on-your-own-route-photo-description-map\/","title":{"rendered":"What to see in Istanbul in 1 day on your own – route, photo, description, map"},"content":{"rendered":"

A huge metropolis that embodies hoary antiquity and young modernity, the handsome Istanbul<\/a> connects East and West. Turkey<\/a>‘s largest city<\/a> is a tour<\/a>ist Mecca, alluring with its unique monuments, luxurious palace<\/a>s and mosques. There is something to see not only for lovers of ancient sights<\/a>, but also for fans of oriental modernity.<\/p>\n

Sultanahmet Square<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The historical core of the city<\/a>, the beautiful quarter of Sultanahmet is the center<\/a> of magnificent architectural structures of different eras and monuments. On them you can read the history<\/a> of the great city. In fact, sq. Sultanahmet combines 2 squares. One (actually Sultanahmet) occupies the territory between the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The second is the Hippodrome, built under the Roman emperor Septimius and expanded under the Roman Constantine the Great.<\/p>\n

It is from these objects that the traditional inspection of the metropolis begins. Here, modern Europeanness mixed with oriental antiquity and Turkish flavor, creating the unique look of Sultanahmet. The undoubted decorations of the square are the famous Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkaly Palace, the Egypt<\/a>ian obelisk. All 14 sights<\/a> of the historical square are admired for their unique<\/a> history<\/a>, craftsmanship and virtuosity of execution. Once everyone was amazed by the magnificent Byzantine statues and obelisks, located<\/a> on the border of 2 squares.<\/p>\n

They were brought here from around the world<\/a> as a symbol of past greatness. Today, only the Egypt<\/a>ian obelisk remains of them – the oldest monument of the city, a priceless artifact symbolizing the power of Ancient Egypt. The Byzantine obelisk Colossus, directed to heaven<\/a>, was also built here. The charm, inspired by the incredible beauty of the decoration of the square, remains for a long time.<\/p>\n

Blue Mosque<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

On Sultanahmet Square, a unique shrine of the world, the majestic Blue Mosque, will appear before your eyes. The structure, which cannot be easily described, was erected during the Ottoman era in the 17th century. Sultan Ahmed I, relying on the mercy of Allah to the weakening empire, ordered the construction of a grandiose mosque at his own expense.<\/p>\n

Today, 6 volumes with data on the construction of the structure are stored, which indicates the unprecedented scale of the 7-year construction. A year after completion, Ahmed I died and was buried in the Mausoleum, engraving his name in the Blue Mosque. In the architectural appearance of the beautiful building, there is a mixture of styles – Ottoman and Byzantine.<\/p>\n

The original feature – 6 minarets was the result of the Sultan's desire to raise the Blue Mosque in front of Hagia Sophia. Entering inside<\/a>, gasp with admiration before the blue radiance spilling over the vast space. The blue color of Iznik ceramic tiles, which decorate the walls and ceiling of the hall, gave the mosque its name. Tiles with floral ornaments are also lined with 4 columns holding the dome. The floor, decorated with bright gray-red car<\/a>pets, creates a major backdrop.<\/p>\n

Street light streaming in through 260 windows brings the fantastic scene to life. You can enter inside on any day except Friday, during the hours when there is no prayer. The dress code is required: women in headscarves and closed clothes, men in long trousers.<\/p>\n

Saint Sophie Cathedral<\/a><\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

Not far from the brainchild of Ahmed I, you can easily find another architectural masterpiece in the Byzantine style. The greatness and power of Byzantium and Turkey<\/a> is reflected in this monumental building, erected on the hill of Artemis 1.5 thousa<\/a>nd years ago. The creation is based on the legend of the appearance of an angel to Emperor Justinian. In his hand, the messenger of God held the project of an extraordinary temple. Justinian spared no expense, and the result was a magnificent building that amazed everyone with its complex architecture and luxury of decoration.<\/p>\n

The Ephesian and Lebanese columns, the altar decorated with precious stones, the magnificent mosaic of the Orthodox shrine delighted the Russian ambassadors. They persuaded Prince Vladimir to accept Orthodoxy. However, after the fall of Constantinople (1453), the new ruler, Sultan Mehmet, ordered that the cathedral building be converted into a mosque. 4 minarets were erected, the mosaic decoration was painted over inside, and the walls were hung with dressed camel skins.<\/p>\n

Texts from the Koran were written on the skin in gold letters. Until 1935, Hagia Sophia was the second largest Muslim shrine after the Kaaba. K. Atat\u00fcrk, who came to power, by a decree issued Hagia Sophia the status of a museum. You will see<\/a> amazing mosaics depicting Christ, the Mother of God, a carved marble minbar, a pulpit. Most likely, you will notice that a line has lined up to one of the columns. These are those who believe that they can be cured if they touch her forehead, as happened with Justinian.<\/p>\n

Basilica Cistern<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

On the square Sultankhamet is a unique attraction – an ancient reservoir of water from the 4th-6th centuries, striking in its grandiose scale and perfection of design. The Basilica Cistern began to be built during the reign of Constantine, and completed in the era of Justinian in 532. This building, which embodied the technology and development<\/a> of science of past eras, stored a huge amount of water intended for drinking. And the water came into the cistern from the springs that gushed in the Belgrade forest<\/a> through the aqueducts.<\/p>\n

Then she walked along a masterfully equipped conduit. Since the 14th century, there was no need for a water storage, and they forgot about it for a long time. And only in 1987 the Basilica Cistern was cleaned, rest<\/a>ored and made a museum object. If you thought that there is nothing interesting in the former reservoir, then you are mistaken. Once inside, you will not be able to contain the feeling of admiration for the grandiose beauty of the fantastic structure. The rows of powerful columns (there are 336 of them) 8 m high are impressive.<\/p>\n

They are located in 12 rows, consisting of 28 columns in each row at 5 m intervals, forming many long corridors (145 m). The 4-meter-thick walls made of fire-resistant bricks covered with a waterproofing layer are striking. Walking<\/a> near the “Column of Tears”, you will see drops flowing down from it – tears. The legend of a beauty captive in a dungeon is associated with tears. If you dip a coin into the “Pool of Desires”, look into the eyes of the stone Head of Medusa, the desire will come true.<\/p>\n

Topkapi Palace<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The largest museum in the world, a unique architectural complex – the Topkapi Palace is located on the square. 700 thousa<\/a>nd sq. m. All unique buildings are located in 4 courtyards, in fact, Topkapi is a mini-city inside the metropolis. It was built during the reign of Mehmed the Conqueror, who conquered Constantinople. On Cape Saraiburnu there was a castle<\/a> of the Byzantine emperor, which had practically collapsed by the 15th century. It was here that it was decided to erect a symbol of Ottoman power.<\/p>\n

At first, the residence was used for official receptions and meetings, but under Suleiman the Magnificent, the complex was given into the possession of a harem headed by the beloved wife of the padishah Roksolana. After the formation of the Turkish Republic, Topkapi was transformed into a museum. In the courtyard of the Janissaries, the main attraction is the Imperial Gate. In the era of the Ottomans, sultans entered them and went out on Fridays to pray at Hagia Sophia. Passing through them today, one can conclude what funds were invested in the marble doors and the facade, painted with gold letters.<\/p>\n

Of interest here is the ancient church of St. Irene, left over from the Byzantines. The 2nd courtyard is famous for<\/a> the Welcome Gate, with a crenellated top and 2 towers. The building of the Council and the Tower of Justice towering over it draws attention. In the 3rd courtyard, everyone passes through the Gate of Happiness, decorated with 4 columns and a wooden dome. Magnificent gardens, terraces, mosques and, in general, the entire palace complex is worthy of admiration.<\/p>\n

Gulhane Park<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

Near Topkapi is an oasis of floristic wonders<\/a> – the beautiful Gulhane Park (House of Roses). Once it was part of the palace complex and was available only to members of the Sultan's family and his courtiers. The name “House of Roses” is not accidental: tens of thousands of roses turn the summer garden into a colorful carpet. In spring, the lawns are covered with a kaleidoscope of tulips, and in winter, forget-me-nots blaze with blue flames.<\/p>\n

Gulhane's landscape beauty is hard to resist, so as not to gasp with delight. In the Ottoman era, pavilions were located here among the trees, many of which were destroyed by a fire in 1863. After the collapse of the Ottoman Empire<\/a>, Gulhane Park became a public place where mass holidays<\/a> and various events were organized. Gradually, everything here fell into disrepair, fell into disrepair, and the garden was closed until 2000.<\/p>\n

For 3 years there was an intensive restoration of the architectural and park complex, and in 2003 the “House of Roses” again opened its arms to admiring visitors. Restored footbridge<\/a>s, 300 elegant benches, wonderful terraces, an abundance of flowering shrubs delight guests. A lot of trees saturate the air with ozone, and flower gardens deliver aesthetic pleasure.<\/p>\n

Grand Bazaar<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

Since ancient times, the Bosphorus served as the main trade route<\/a>, so it is natural that in the former Constantinople there is a symbol of brisk trade – the old (1461) Grand Bazaar market. Enter its ranks, and the oriental tale of Aladdin's magic<\/a> lamp comes to life in your memory. An enchanting variety of goods can satisfy any desire – here you can buy whatever you want.<\/p>\n

The Grand Bazaar became the shopping<\/a> mecca of the world in 2013, visited by over 91 million tourists<\/a>. It is located next to the main attraction of the city – the Blue Mosque, which makes the market convenient to visit. Unlike its Western counterparts, the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. Over the centuries of its existence, the bazaar burned down more than once, but was reborn from the ashes, continuing to flourish and ring with coins.<\/p>\n

The scale of the territory is impressive – covered galleries occupy an area<\/a> of \u200b\u200b30.7 thousand square meters. m. It has 62 streets, 12 mosques, 18 fountains<\/a>, 18 gates, many pavilions and other establishments. It is impossible to get around everything in a short time, it is enough to walk a few meters to feel the special oriental flavor and buy an exotic souvenir. Here they offer special maps with pointers to help you navigate in the vast space.<\/p>\n

Egyptian Bazaar<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

Another bazaar deserves your attention – the Egyptian or spice market. It is located on the square. Eminenu, where tram T1 runs from the Blue Mosque. In 17 minutes you will find yourself in a fantastic world of oriental colors and aromas. The spice market was formed by order of the mother of the Sultan in 1597-1664. on the site of a small city bazaar. And they called it Egyptian because Indian spices were delivered through the Bosphorus through Egypt.<\/p>\n

Despite repeated fires and earthquakes, the spice bazaar managed to survive and flourish with renewed vigor. You can enter the main entrance from the square. Eminen, and there are 6 of them in the covered pavilion of the market. They let tens of thousands of visitors a day, including many tour<\/a>ists. The voluminous space in the shape of the letter L accommodates up to 100 stores under its roof. Each of them is amazing with a variety of spices of different colors, smells and shapes.<\/p>\n

Not everyone has ever seen such a huge assortment of spices and spices as offered at the Egyptian Bazaar. Even just walking along the counters, inhaling the incredibly pleasant smells, is already a pleasure. And if you allow yourself to buy some rare spices – a double pleasure.<\/p>\n

Suleymaniye Mosque<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

Not far from sq. Eminenu (5 minutes walk) is the most beautiful religious building, symbolizing the era of the reign of the outstanding Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The Suleymaniye Mosque,<\/a> which has been under construction for 7 years, is considered the most beautiful among all mosques in Istanbul. The ashes of Suleiman himself, members of his family and 2 other sultans are buried within its walls.<\/p>\n

If you watched the TV series “Roksolana – the slave of the Sultan”, you have already seen an unusually elegant building, with 4 minarets. It is surrounded by a complex of other buildings: a madrasah, a library, an observatory, baths. The famous architect Sinan used the Turkish style in architecture. According to him, 4 minarets symbolize the power of the 4th Sultan, 10 balconies – the 10th member of the ruling dynasty. The brainchild of Sinan is not only beautiful, but also very stable.<\/p>\n

The mosque has endured 89 earthquakes, completely retaining its former shape and appearance. The love story of Suleiman the Magnificent and the slave Roksolana (Sultana H\u00fcrren) is connected with this religious object. The Turkish TV series “The Magnificent Age” was filmed about her, in which the slave Roksolana became the beloved wife of the Sultan. Romantic legends<\/a> wafting over the mosque make it even more attractive.<\/p>\n

Galata bridge<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

One of the visiting cards of the city is the Galata Bridge, which connects the north<\/a> and south of the Europe<\/a>an part of Istanbul – a favorite place for tourists<\/a> to walk. The crossing over the Golden Horn Bay first appeared in the 6th century under Justinian, the Byzantine emperor. After floating and pontoon means were used, a wooden ferry was erected. It was built in the middle of the 19th century by order of the mother of Sultan Valide. On the occasion of Napoleon's visit to Istanbul, the crossing was improved, expanding to 14 m.<\/p>\n

But in 1912, the wooden ferry was replaced with a metal structure that served 80 years. The modern metal bridge, as it is seen now, was built in 1992-94. The powerful structure was erected by the German company Mann, making it a reliable crossing for centuries. Stepping on the bridge deck, you are amazed at its size: length is 480 m, width is more than 40 m. The 2-tier bridge provides a quick crossing for pedestrians, automobile, railway and water transport<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The lower floor of a truly universal crossing is designed for pedestrians. The middle part of it is divorced, skipping the court. The 2nd floor gives the green light to cars and train<\/a>s. Walking along the Galata Bridge, tourists can go to a cafe or a fish restaurant, which are enough here. It is here that everyone feasts on the famous balyk-ekmek (a sandwich with fried fish). From here you can admire the irresistible views of the Golden Horn, the embankment and sights<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Galata tower<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The oldest architectural monument of the city – the high Galata Tower 14 in attracts no less attention of tourists than, for example, the Blue Mosque. An amazing object standing on the Galata Hill is visible from many points in the city. A masterpiece of medieval architecture was created by the Genoese in honor of Christ. The tower for them symbolized the Genoese influence in Constantinople. For many centuries, it served as a fire tower, a tower for flights of brave daredevils on makeshift wings.<\/p>\n

The undoubted decoration of the city became available for public viewing only in 1965. Today people come here to take the elevator to the very top of the Galata Tower and view the stunning panorama of the ancient city<\/a>. It is especially pleasant to do this while sitting in a restaurant or cafe at a table covered with oriental delicacies. The night club located in the lower floor of the tower attracts a lot of young people. The ancient tower has found a new life, becoming a sought-after object.<\/p>\n

Istiklal<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

“Independence” is the name of the widest pedestrian street in the city in Turkish. It was assigned to the Istanbul Broadway when the Turkish Republic was formed, headed by Ataturk and on the square. Taksim opened the independence monument “Republic”. A 1.5-kilometer strip of Istiklal stretches from the district of Galata to the square. Taksim in the Europe<\/a>an part of Istanbul.<\/p>\n

From the Galata Tower you get straight to the famous promenade. It is almost always full of people, strolling leisurely along a solid wall of shops, restaurants and entertainment<\/a> venues. Independence Avenue (another name) is filled with active life, the sounds of music, laughter and multilingual dialect. Istiklal has a special flavor. It differs in that European modernity and Eastern antiquity have merged together here.<\/p>\n

Near religious Muslim and Christian objects, various kinds of establishments coexist peacefully: nightclubs, discobars. Your attention will be drawn to the luxurious building of neoclassical architecture, decorated with stained-glass windows and gilded stucco – Flower Passage. Under its glass roof, various trading establishments are located. It is worth seeing the Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity, restore<\/a>d after the destruction by Muslim terrorists. It is interesting to visit Madame Tussauds Wax Museum (Grand Pera building).<\/p>\n

Historic tram<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The first tram line appeared in the city as early as 1871, but in the middle of the 20th century, the tram as a mode of transport was removed from Istiklal Street. However, in 1990 the tram track was re-laid and the Historical tram N T2 was put on it. It has become a kind of historical monument of the 19th century. Special trailers a la the 19th century, stylized antique, were made.<\/p>\n

Route<\/a> T2 starts from pl. Taksim, stretches through Istiklal with 3 stops. Tourists enjoy riding a retro tram, although this does not save time. The tram does not run so often and not so fast, playing a symbolic role of transport. Rather, it is one of the tourist attractions<\/a> of Independence Avenue.<\/p>\n

Most often, tourists use it, especially in the high, spring-autumn sea<\/a>son. There are more than enough hunters to ride in a retro tram – queues of those who wish are lining up. Risky youth besiege the car outside, riding “hares”. But if you want to save time, it's better to walk along Istiklal, and you can take a photo<\/a> of the tram as a keepsake.<\/p>\n

Taksim<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The main square of the Beyoglu district, to which the street leads. Istiklal, famous for the monument “Republic”. It is surrounded by historical sights<\/a>, great hotel<\/a>s, high-end restaurants and boutiques. Here are also the best restaurants in the city. From sq. Taksim (translated as “distribution”) fan out in all directions many streets and streets. It has an important transport interchange.<\/p>\n

Not far from the square is the beautiful Taksim-Gezi Park. The modern optimistic mood of the square is dissonant with several sad events that took place here in the past. Taksim Square is located on the site where there was an Armenia<\/a>n cemetery in the 16th century. And in May 1977, when a protest action was taking place, dozens of people were shot here.<\/p>\n

Tragic events also took place in 2013 during a clash between the police and protesting citizens. Taksim today is a venue for holidays<\/a>, parades, and various celebrations. You will be interested in the Ataturk Cultural Center<\/a>, Dolmabahce Palace and other objects here.<\/p>\n

Cruise<\/a> on the Bosphorus<\/h2>\n

\"What<\/a><\/p>\n

The highlight of a tourist stay is a boat trip along the Bosphorus. Both private carriers and large companies<\/a> offer their services. Cruises are carried out on yachts, ships, boats and ferries. They depart from 5 popular piers: Eminenu, Kadikoy, Kabatash, Besiktas, Uskudar.<\/p>\n

You can choose<\/a> the option of a short (1 hour 20 min) cruise as part of a group on a public boat. The route<\/a> is organized from any pier to Fatih Bridge and back. Sailing along the coast, you will see the famous sights from a different angle. There will be an opportunity to appreciate the scale of the Galata Bridge, the greatness of the Galata Tower and compare the Asian and European parts of the Bosphorus.<\/p>\n

You will admire the Maiden Tower (Kyz Kulesi) – the main attraction of the Asian coast. Pass by the Kadikoy market. Wonderful palaces of the European part of the embankment will please with their appearance: Dolbakhche, Beylerbey, Chiragan. Marvel at the Fatih Bridge and other crossings. All the stunning view<\/a>s will be photo<\/a>graphed as a keepsake.<\/p>\n

Pay attention to important information – it will help you avoid problems and easily get to the center. Upon arrival at the airport, you should exchange rubles for lira to pay for public transport<\/a> (there is no aeroexpress). If you do not plan to take a taxi (by the way, Uber works and the trips are inexpensive), head to the nearest Havaliimani metro station, buy a token in the machine and go 6 stops to the station. Zeytinburnu. At the vending machine next to the exit, you buy a tram ticket for the T1 light rail that stops there. After 20-30 minutes – your stop is Sultanahmet. If you do not save money<\/a>, order an individual transfer<\/a> through the service kiwitaxi.ru<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Istanbul itinerary<\/a> for 1 day on the map<\/h2>\n