So you’ve decided – you want to take a trip to Istanbul. Perfect choice! The largest city in Türkiye is a living, open-air museum dotted with the mighty remnants of the great powers who ruled over it. Istanbul is a large city with thousands of landmarks. Most of them date back hundreds of years, especially to the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Some are more famous than others, but they have one thing in common – they are absolutely worth your time.
Istanbul isn’t just about mosques, though it does have quite a few. In fact, this city has more attractions than mosques – and that is a lot. You could spend weeks here and never run out of neighbourhoods to explore and things to do.
19 Istanbul landmarks you need to visit at least once in your life
We have cherry-picked 19 fascinating sites that would be fun to visit. Here are the most beautiful landmarks in Istanbul that deserve a spot on your bucket list. We have divided them into four categories:
- Istanbul landmarks, which are architectural marvels
- Other famous historical landmarks, which are also the most popular attractions
- Other popular Istanbul landmarks you need to visit
- The best Istanbul landmarks on the Asian side.
Istanbul landmarks, which are architectural marvels
1. Hagia Sophia
Everyone knows Hagia Sophia is the symbol of Istanbul and is one of the most visited attractions. Hagia Sophia isn’t just any church – it’s one of the oldest symbols of the Byzantine Empire in Türkiye. This gorgeous church is one of the world’s greatest man-made monuments. Its UNESCO status only proves that.
Byzantine emperor Justinian constructed Hagia Sophia in the 6th century in the city they called Constantinople in less than 6 years. Justinian the Great made it as opulent as could possibly be. He imported the columns and marble from ancient cities around Syria, Anatolia and Ephesus.
Hagia Sophia has changed the history of architecture. It has a massive 32-metre (105 ft) main dome. It’s 56 metres from the floor.
Hagia Sophia is one of the best Istanbul landmarks because it is a cultural icon of Byzantine and Eastern Orthodox civilization. Did you know Hagia Sophia was the largest cathedral in the world for almost a thousand years? This empire church saw coronations and lavish ceremonies for over 900 years. Mehmet II converted it into a mosque in the 15th century.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Ataturk, the father of modern Türkiye, converted Hagia Sophia into a museum. In 2020, it again became a mosque. Hagia Sophia is open every day from 9 am until 7.30 pm (as of February 2024).
NEW ENTRANCE FEE FOR HAGIA SOPHIA IN 2024:
Hagia Sophia was free to visit until January 2024. As of January 15th 2024, foreign visitors must buy a ticket to explore Hagia Sophia. An entry fee for tourists to Hagia Sophia is €25. After purchasing your ticket from the box office, you can enter the building at 7.30 pm at the latest. You will have one hour to explore the upper galleries.
NEW ENTRANCE FOR TOURISTS:
As of January 2024, there is a separate entrance for tourists who want to visit Hagia Sophia. You can find it next to the entrance gate of Topkapi Palace. This is the only way to see Hagia Sophia if you are not Muslim.
Hagia Sophia’s upper floor galleries with Christian mosaics were closed for restoration for a few years. As of January 2024, you can see all the famous mosaics except “the Virgin and the Child mosaic”. The curtain covers it because it is in the main space. When leaving the building, don’t forget to see “the mosaic of Emperors Justinian and Constantine”. You can find it at the south door of the ground floor.
Don’t miss the mosaic of Emperors Justinian and Constantine, dating back to the 10th century.
HAGIA SOPHIA LOWER FLOOR
Only the Muslim community can visit the lower floor of Hagia Sophia (as of January 2024). They need to use a different entrance to the mosque (on Sultanahmet Square).
HAGIA SOPHIA RESTORATION IN 2024:
The Turkish government started a massive restoration of Hagia Sophia in September 2023. The restoration of Hagia Sophia could last more than 50 years. But don’t worry – Hagia Sophia remains accessible for visits and worship during the long-term repair and maintenance work.
2. Basilica Cistern
Did you know there are several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath Istanbul? Next time you are in Istanbul, head to the Basilica Cistern for an underground adventure. The Basilica Cistern is not just your average water reservoir, it’s an aquatic sensation.
Why does it deserve a spot on your must-visit list? Well, for starters, it’s massive – it can hold 80,000 cubic meters (2,800,000 cu ft) of water. The dimensions of this cathedral-sized cistern are approximately 138 metres (453ft) by 65 metres (213ft). The Emperor Justinian built this grand cistern in the 6th century. Why? Maybe he had a genius moment, or perhaps it was just a classic “because I can” moment. Regardless, he went big. And guess what? It’s the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul.
FUN FACT:
So, what makes this cistern a true legend? It’s those columns from different ancient hotspots. The marble and granite columns came from ruined temples and are either the Corint or Doric style. They turn simple water storage into a historical masterpiece. 336 marble columns, each 9 metres (30 ft) high, rise from the water – each whispering tales from the past.
The Basilica Cistern provided water for the Great Palace of Constantinople and other buildings on the first hill. Even the Ottomans used it as a water source for the Topkapi Palace, but only for housework or gardening.
The Basilica Cistern is like an underwater palace, minus the mermaids. Well, who needs mermaids when you have Medusa? Two Medusa’s heads turned sideways and upside down keep things interesting for water spirits.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You can visit the Basilica Cistern every day between 9 am and 10 pm (as of February 2024). The entry fee for the Basilica Cistern is 600 Turkish Lira (€18) as of February 2024. Don’t forget to buy skip-the-line tickets, as it is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Also, the Basilica Cistern is not a part of the Museum Pass.
3. Dolmabahçe Palace
Imagine if Versailles and an Ottoman sultan had a fabulous love child – that would be Dolmabahçe Palace. This opulent palace is not only the largest palace in Turkey – it’s a statement!
In the mid-19th century, the Empire’s 31st Sultan looked around at the Topkapi Palace and thought: “I need an upgrade.” So he commissioned to build a palace which would make even Louis XIV a bit jealous. This waterfront palace became home to six sultans. It also served as the main administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire for 31 years.
Why visit it? This celebrity mansion in Istanbul is far more than interesting. Dolmabahçe Palace has 285 rooms, 46 opulent halls, 6 hammam and 68 toilets. And did we mention the largest collection of Bohemian crystals in the world? It even has the world’s largest crystal chandelier. It weighs 4.5 tonnes. Many thought this chandelier with 750 lamps was a gift from Queen Victoria. However, locals discovered the receipt in 2006, revealing that the Sultan had paid for it. But wait, there is more!
FUN FACT:
The sultans went so far that they decorated its rooms with hundreds of kilograms of gold. The construction of Dolmabahçe Palace cost 5 million Ottoman gold liras or 35 tonnes of gold. That’s like a jaw-dropping $1.9 billion worth of gold value (in 2021). This grand expense caused debts to pile up faster than a Black Friday madness. It was one of the reasons why the Ottoman Empire collapsed. After that, the new Turkish Republic claimed the palace.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You can visit Dolmabahçe Palace every day except on Mondays between 9 am and 4 pm. The entry fee to Dolmabahçe Palace is 1050 Turkish Lira (€32) as of February 2024. We recommend you spend here 2 to 3 hours. Also, you should know you won’t be able to take any pictures inside, only outside and in the gardens.
4. Rumeli Fortress
Beautiful Rumeli Castle is a version of a speed-built castle, which would make any medieval architect jealous.
Rumeli Fortress, located on a hill on the European banks of the Bosphorus, isn’t just a bunch of stones. This reigning queen of defensive structures in Istanbul has been a guardian of the Bosphorus since the 15th century. The castle has three main towers, one small tower and 13 small watchtowers that scream “Try me!”
FUN FACT:
Back in 1452, Sultan Mehmed II decided he needed some Bosphorus control in preparation for a planned Ottoman siege of Constantinople. Mehmed the Conqueror was a multitasker and built this impressive castle in a record 4 months – yes, you read that right. He named it “Strait-cutter” Castle because it cut off maritime military and logistical relief that could potentially come into the Byzantines.
But Rumeli Fortress isn’t just a pretty face – it’s got brains, too. The Sultan (or his viziers) chose this location because it is the narrowest point of the Bosphorus. It’s only 660 m (2,170 ft) wide, and its older sister structure (Anatolian Fortress) sits on the opposite banks of the Bosporus. Imagine those two fortresses working in tandem during the final siege, telling ships “You shouldn’t pass!“
After the city’s conquest, Rumeli Castle served as a customs checkpoint and an occasional prison. Cannons in the front garden by the sea sunk all ships which refused to pay a tax. Today, Rumeli Castle offers gorgeous views of the Bosphorus. It also reminds you that it’s seen more action than your Netflix series.
GOOD TO KNOW:
There is undergoing renovation at Rumeli Fortress. For that reason, you cannot climb the towers and walls of the castle. We still recommend visiting Rumeli Castle because you can explore the gardens and a ruined mosque with a minaret. Rumeli Fortress is one of the best Istanbul landmarks because of its historical significance. Therefore, we recommend you to visit and give it 5 stars.
Rumeli Fortress is not open on Mondays. The entry fee to Rumeli Fortress is 130 Turkish Lira (€4) as of February 2024. You can visit it between 9 am and 5 pm (31 October – 1 April) or until 7 pm (1 April – 31 October).
TIP:
The entrance is not easy to find because of the renovation. It is at the end of the fortress, next to a larger restaurant.
5. Aqueduct of Valens
Another historic site you need to witness is the Aqueduct of Valens. This Roman-era structure is an engineering marvel and dates back to the 4th century. The Roman Emperor Valens built it as a part of the impressive Valens Aqueduct System. It used to deliver water to the thirsty throats of Constantinople from a whopping 240 km (149 mi) far away.
Now, you might think, “An aqueduct? How exciting could it be?” Well, here’s the twist: the Aqueduct of Valens is one of the largest structures in the city. This monument is 920 m (3,018 ft) long and 30 m (98ft) high. This architectural wonder has stood the test of time, earthquakes and also urban expansion. So, when you stand before this ancient aqueduct, you’re not just looking at stone. Instead, you’re gazing into the veins that once pumped life into the city for almost 1,400 years. It’s a piece of history and the kind of monuments that demand attention.
6. The Walls of Constantinople
The Walls of Constantinople in Istanbul saw more action than most walled cities claim to.
If you have time to see one more thing, make sure it’s the legendary Walls of Constantinople. Constantine the Great wasn’t playing around when he built them in the 4th century. This famous emperor created the massive walls that put all others to shame. These giant stone bodyguards originally surrounded the entire city on all different sides, both land and sea. They protected the new capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, the emperors, and their treasures for over a millennium. The Walls of Constantinople made any invading army think twice to attack the city.
FUN FACT:
Did you know Constantinople was besieged 36 times throughout its long history?
As the city grew, countless invaders tried to attack the city. The walls had numerous modifications during their history. In the 5th century, Emperor Theodosius II said, “We need an upgrade!” He snapped his fingers and got himself the double Theodosian Walls. These massive walls became one of the most complex defensive systems ever built. The ruler located them about 2 km (1.2 miles) west of the Constantinople Walls.
Countless invaders were scratching their heads, trying to find a way in. But then, the Ottoman Empire came, and their sultan Mehmed II spiced things up in the 15th century. His crafty ideas helped him to breach the walls and begin the end and the beginning of a new empire.
So, next time you are in Istanbul, find these UNESCO-certified survivors. See the walls which stood the test of time – they will impress even the toughest history critics.
No time to read now? Save the best 19 Istanbul landmarks to read it later.
Other historical landmarks in Istanbul
7. Blue Mosque
They didn’t call it Blue Mosque because it’s having a sad day. It’s all about the interior.
One of the most iconic monuments of Ottoman architecture in Istanbul is the Sultanahmet Mosque. Sultan Ahmet I constructed it in the 17th century across from Hagia Sophia. They didn’t call it the Blue Mosque because they ran out of colour names. Step inside – you will see a symphony of blue tiles that could make even Picasso jealous. Over 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles with over fifty different designs on the mosque’s inside. You half expect a genie to pop out and grant you three wishes. Spoiler alert: it won’t happen, but you can still make a wish.
inside
And let’s talk about its minarets – not one, not two, but six! It caused controversy (at the time) because only the mosque in Mecca’s Kaaba had 6 minarets.
FUN FACT:
Legend has it that Sultan Ahmet I wanted golden minarets (“altın minareler”) for this mosque. But instead, the architect heard six minarets (“altı minare”), a classic mix-up, right? Picture the sultan’s surprise when he saw his mosque not with four, not five, but six minarets. After the awkward silence, he decided to add a seventh minaret in Mecca.
So, next time you spot the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and blue tiles, remember: that’s why it’s one of the most famous Istanbul landmarks.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Even though the Blue Mosque is a working mosque, it is also open to non-Muslim visitors. The mosque is not open during prayer time for 30 minutes (5 times a day). Avoid visiting 2 hours before dawn, dawn, midday, mid-afternoon, sunset and right before the last light of the day. Also, the Friday midday prayers are much longer.
DRESS CODE FOR A MOSQUE
Don’t forget – there is a dress code for a mosque. Wear loose-fitting clothing and no shorts or short skirts which don’t cover the knees. Also, women must cover their heads with a scarf every time they want to visit a mosque. Sometimes mosques provide scarves and also skirts, which you can borrow.
It’s not just Hagia Sophia that makes Sultanahmet Square one of the best places to visit in Istanbul. This massive square was the centre of Byzantium’s life for 1000 years. Also, Ottomans lived here for another 470 years.
8. Sultanahmet Square
Let us paint a picture of why Sultanahmet Square is one of the most visited places in the city. This massive pedestrian-only square is not your average square – it’s the VIP lounge of Istanbul attractions. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Istanbul Archaeological Museum call this place home. But wait, there is more!
FUN FACT:
Did you know Sultanahmet Square is the former hippodrome dating back to the Byzantine era?
Back in the day, it was the sporting and social centre of Constantinople. Chariots raced here in a rectangular arena alongside Sultanahmet Park, and 100,000 people watched the magnificent shows. The historians estimated that the Hippodrome of Constantine was about 450 m (1476 ft) long and 130 m (427ft) wide. This massive stadium had numerous statues of gods, emperors and animals. It even had 4 statues of the Horses of Saint Mark, which now you can see in St Mark’s Basilica in Venice.
While there isn’t much of the hippodrome left to see, you can still spot 3 ancient monuments:
- a 20-metre (60ft) high pink Egyptian Obelisk from Karnak
- a stone Obelisk at the southern end
- the Serpent Column, brought here from Delphi by Constantine.
the Serpent Column
9. Topkapi Palace
Nobody can deny that the Topkapi Palace is one of the most Istanbul landmarks. Sultan Mehmed II (the Conqueror) built this palace complex just 6 years after the conquest of Constantinople. This large museum and library holds fascinating stories that easily outshine most museums worldwide.
WHAT TO SEE:
The UNESCO-listed Topkapi Palace became the residence of its sultans. It was also the administrative seat of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years. Ambitious courtiers, attractive concubines and about 30 sultans lived in the Topkapi Palace between the 15th and 19th centuries. The Topkapi Palace consists of four courtyards and numerous smaller buildings. The sultans expanded the complex over the centuries and decorated it with stunning hand-painted tilework. It has hundreds of rooms and chambers, but you can visit only the most important.
The Topkapi Palace harem
One of the top attractions is the Harem complex, once home to the concubines and the female members. Also, don’t miss the sultan’s private rooms, the Imperial Council Chamber, where the state officials and the Grand Vizier held meetings. Make sure you don’t miss treasury. It houses the Ottoman Empire treasures like the Spoonmaker’s Diamond and the Topkapi Dagger. Also, visit the museum and see the Holly Relics of the Prophet Muhammad, weapons, Ottoman clothing, illuminated manuscripts and more.
Don’t miss the Topkapı Dagger – it’s one of the most famous objects in the collection of the Topkapı Palace Treasury.
Did you know the Topkapi Palace houses the fourth largest diamond of its kind in the world? The pear-shaped Spoonmaker’s Diamond has 86 carat (17.2g) and is one of the most valuable exhibits in the Topkapi Palace Treasury.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Topkapi Palace stretches behind Hagia Sophia. You can visit it between 9 am and 6 pm every day except Tuesday (as of February 2024). Also, you cannot explore it on the 1st of May, the first day of Ramadan (the 10th of March 2024) and the first day of Sacrifice Feast (16th June 2024).
TIPS:
- To beat the crowds, plan your visit to the Topkapi early in the morning or late afternoon, around 4 am or 5 pm during the summer. Avoid visiting on weekends, especially during the busiest months (April – October).
- Buy the combined ticked for the Topkapi Palace, the Harem complex and Hagia Irene ₺1500 to save money.
10. Grand Bazaar
Attention, shopaholics and treasure lovers, we’re about to spill the secrets of why the Grand Bazaar is a top spot in Istanbul. This bustling market is not just a shopping destination – it’s the heartbeat of Istanbul’s vibrant soul. Why, you ask? Well, it’s not just an ancient shopping mall where haggling is an art form and getting lost is part of the adventure.
So, what makes the Grand Bazaar a legend? First things first, this chaotic market has been here for centuries. Sultan Mehmet II built the oldest part of the bazaar after he conquered Constantinople in the 15th century.
FUN FACTS:
Do you think your local mall is cool? The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. It has 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops. Around 2,000 people work here, and 250,000 and 400,000 people visit it every day. Let that sink in.
The Grand Bazaar is a labyrinth maze of coffee shops and stalls selling Turkish carpets, lamps, ceramics and leather shoes. You’ll find everything here. Spices that will transport you to the Silk Road and the locals who balance loose-leaf tea on brass scales used by their fathers and grandfathers before them. It’s like stepping into Aladdin’s cave, minus the risk of bumping into a Genie. However, who knows, maybe your wish to find the perfect jewellery that might outshine the crown jewels will come true.
11. Suleymaniye Mosque
The Suleymaniye Mosque is also rocking the charts of top Istanbul landmarks because it’s a living testament to the Ottoman Empire. Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent gifted this gorgeous structure to the world in the 16th century. And, oh boy, did he succeed!
Here is the cherry on top: The Suleymaniye Mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture and has a UNESCO star to prove it. And yes, this was Istanbul’s largest mosque for over 460 years. Can you believe it?
But what makes it a must-visit, you ask? The Suleymaniye Mosque isn’t just a place to offer prayers – it’s a symphony of culture and craftsmanship. Its massive dome proudly claimed the title of the highest dome in the Ottoman Empire when measured from the sea level. It might be shorter and a bit smaller in diameter than Hagia Sophia, but hey, it isn’t about the size, it’s how you reach the skies!
It has a beautiful design, gorgeous stained glass windows, towering minarets, a tomato red carpet and the ostrich egg. So, why ostrich eggs? Well, turns out they are the secret weapon against eight-legged invaders! So, the next time you find yourself in a mosque, try to spot one!
TIP:
Before you leave, check out the peaceful gardens with the Ottoman-era cemetery. It houses the tombs of the Sultan Suleyman and his wife. Also, this complex has other buildings like a religious school, a hospital, a library and toilets.
12. Galata Tower
Galata Tower has a tale as epic as its panoramic views.
14th century Galata Tower has more history in its stones than a library has books. The Genoese built this cylindrical tower as a part of a fortification system at their highest point. They ensured it claimed the title of the city’s tallest at a soaring 62.5 m (205 ft), leaving everything else in its shadow like a kid’s sandcastle.
When the Ottomans conquered the city, they didn’t bulldoze it. Instead, the locals handed the key to the sultan’s hands. Galata Tower became the city’s watchful guardian and surprisingly chic prison with a view! And guess what? This tower is more fortified than a fortress in a fantasy novel. It is nine stories high, and its walls are 3.75 m (12.3 ft) thick.
When you visit Galata Tower, you can also spot the famous Golden Horn chain in a museum. This giant chain was one of the protectors of the Golden Horn. It used to close the entrance to the Golden Horn and block enemy ships from entering.
From 1717, Galata Tower played firefighter, scanning the horizon for fire. In 2020, a glamorous makeover transformed it into a museum (now one of the hottest spots in the city). Tourists flock here to visit its observation deck on the top floor to enjoy a 360-degree view of Istanbul.
The views from the Galata Tower are gorgeous.
FUN FACT:
Forget Tinder, the Galata Tower is a matchmaking VIP pass. According to Galata legend, if you climb this historic tower with your loved one, you’ll hear wedding bells! Lovebirds line up and flock to the tower, hoping to turn their relationship from “It’s complicated.” to “Happily ever after.” So, next time you’re with that special someone, why not suggest a romantic tower climb? Who knows, you might end up with a love story for the love story for the ages – or at least a fun engagement tale!
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Galata Tower is open every day between 8.30 am and 10 pm (summer until 11 pm). The entry ticket to the tower costs 650 Turkish Lira (€20) as of February 2024. You cannot visit the 8th floor (highest floor) of the Galata Tower due to a restoration. Check their official Galata Tower website for the latest information.
No time to read now? Save the best 19 Istanbul landmarks to read it later.
Other famous Istanbul landmarks you need to visit
13. Galata Bridge
The Galata Bridge isn’t just a strip of concrete – this famous bridge which spans the Golden Horn connects the old and new parts of the European side of Istanbul. It’s 490 m (1,610 ft) long and is the fifth bridge on the same site.
The Galata Bridge is the heartbeat of Istanbul, not just a crossing. This iconic bridge hides eateries serving the catch of the day on its ground floor. It’s a place where fishermen try their luck, talented singers and dancers try to catch attention, and tourists soak in the views. So, next time you are here, enjoy gorgeous views of the Galata Tower and the New Mosque.
14. Istanbul Archaeology Museum
Imagine stepping into a treasure chest that’s not just filled with riches but also with history. That’s the Istanbul Archaeology Museum.
Back in the day, Sultan Abdülaziz roamed the archaeological museums in Paris, London, and Vienna. He was so blown away that after his return from his Euro trip, he said: “We need one of those!” So, he commanded the creation of the first museum in the Ottoman Empire.
But hold on, here is the plot twist – it’s not just one museum, but a group of three museums. They have over a million objects from nearly all periods and civilizations in world history. The Archaeological Museum is the headliner, with the Museum of the Ancient Orient and the Museum of Islamic Art.
WHAT TO SEE:
The Istanbul Archaeology Museum is a gold mine from the Ottoman Empire’s glory days collected from their former territories. The highlights are tile images from the gate of Babylon, the Egyptian–Hittite peace treaty and a precious sarcophagus from Sidon and Lebanon. There is even the Alexander Sarcophagus – made for the big man himself. And let’s not forget Si.427 from the Old Babylonian period and a stunning collection of 800,000 Ottoman coins and decorations. You can even spot a tablet from Mesopotamia with the oldest known law code. Istanbul Archaeological Museum is a time machine to civilizations past: get ready to be impressed!
GOOD TO KNOW:
Visit the Istanbul Archaeology Museum between 9 am and 6.30 pm (31 October – 1 April) or until 8 pm during the summer period hours. The entry ticket to the Istanbul Archaeology Museum costs 340 Turkish Lira (€10.30) as of February 2024. You can’t visit the Museum of the Ancient Orient due to a restoration. Check their official website for the latest information here.
15. Spice Bazaar
Spice Bazaar – a lively sibling to the Grand Bazaar.
Make sure you don’t miss the Spice Bazaar near the New Mosque – it’s a must-visit among Istanbul’s top attractions. As the second largest covered market in the city, it’s more than just a shopping haven. It’s a spice kingdom and a fragrant wonderland. Back in the 17th century, the locals opened this “Egyptian Bazaar’’ from the taxes collected in Egypt.
This centuries-old spice haven is not your average market. It’s more like a culinary carnival and amusement park. They’ve got it all – from dried fruit, nuts, oils, and, of course, spices. Exotic saffron, mouthwatering sweets and teas – your tastebuds do the happy dance. So, whether you’re on a gastronomic adventure or just want to spice up your life, add Spice Bazaar to your list of Istanbul landmarks!
16. Maiden Tower, Istanbul
The legend has it that a king built this tower because a fortune teller told him his daughter would die from a snake bite. The prophecy, however, came true.
The Maiden Tower has also been watching over Istanbul for over two millennia. This iconic tower sits on a tiny rocky island at the entrance to the Bosphorus, just 200 m (656 ft) from the coast of Üsküdar.
The Maiden Tower has seen more drama than your favourite Hollywood movie. It served as a customs station for Black Sea ships, creating a no-entry zone for unwanted guests. The Byzantine emperors turned the Maiden Tower into a defence tower. They even added a massive chain extending from the tower to the Asian shore for strategic military use.
Sultan Mehmed II gave this watchtower a makeover during the Ottoman conquest. After that, it became a lighthouse, a quarantine station and a military base. The tower had more jobs than your friend with too many side hustles. The Maiden Tower survived earthquakes, a bit of burning drama and another makeover.
Today, the Maiden Tower is not just a tower – it’s a popular attraction. You can spot it when you join the Bosphorus cruise or take a ferry to the Asian side. You can even visit the museum when you take a ferry from Üsküdar or Galataport Piers.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The museum is not open due to a restoration until 1st of March 2024.
The best Istanbul landmarks on the Asian side
17. Camlica Mosque
The Grand Camlica Mosque is so stunning that even the seagulls pause mid-flight to admire it.
Camlica Mosque isn’t your average mosque – it’s practically the superhero of Istanbul landmarks. It’s like the diva of the skyline, saying, “Move over, other monuments!” As the largest mosque in Turkey, it can handle a worshipper army of up to 63,000 or up to 100,000 during an earthquake party. The locals built this impressive mosque in 2019 on Camlica Hill on the Asian side of Istanbul. Let’s just say it’s stealing the show because it is visible from much of the city centre.
The Grand Camlica Mosque is not messing around – it’s basically the Coachella or religious gatherings. Make sure you explore it when you find yourself in Istanbul.
DID YOU KNOW?
Guess what? Camlica Mosque is also part of the exclusive six-minaret club. It’s only the third mosque in Turkey to have 6 minarets, following the footsteps of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul and the Sabancı Merkez Mosque in Adana. But wait, there is more!
And those mosque gates? They are not just gates – they’re some of the world’s largest inside a place of worship. These colossal monuments are 5 metres long, 6.5 metres high and a whopping 6 tons each. And its 34-metre wide main dome? It’s not just any dome – it symbolizes the unity of 72 nations living harmoniously in Istanbul. The number 34 isn’t just a random choice: that’s the city’s car plate number. Now, that’s what we call a symbol with a licence to impress!
GOOD TO KNOW:
Camlica Mosque complex also houses an art gallery, library, conference hall, underground parking and childcare facilities. There is work underway to add a metro stop for the M5 Metro line.
18. Beylerbeyi Palace
Did you know the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace has a charming mini-me in the Üsküdar district on the Asian side of Istanbul? The 19th-century Neo-Baroque Beylerbeyi Palace is not just any palace – it’s a VIP lounge for the Ottoman Elite. Ottoman sultans used this waterfront gem with 24 rooms, 6 halls and a Turkish bath as their summer residence.
Beylerbeyi Palace makes Buckingham Palace look like a cosy cottage. It has a lavish interior, French clocks and Bohemian crystal chandeliers that make you question your home lighting choices. And its gorgeous gardens? They put your ordinary backyard to shame, and its reception hall with a pool and fountain is a testament to “done right“.
Here’s the juicy inside story: Sultan Abdülhamit II wasn’t just skilled in the ruling – he knew a thing (or two) about styling a room. During his “creative” six-year house arrest, he crafted some furniture that would make any DIY enthusiast proud. And if it’s not impressive enough, Empress Eugenie loved this palace so much that she copied the windows for her place in Paris. Now, forget your DIY blogs – the real secret to home design success is your visit to Beylerbeyi Palace!
GOOD TO KNOW:
Beylerbeyi Palace is open every day except Monday between 9 am and 5 pm. The entry ticket to Beylerbeyi Palace costs 350 Turkish Liras (€10.60) as of February 2024.
19. Bosphorus Bridge
One of the must-see attractions is also the Bosphorus Bridge, or the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, as the locals call it. This 1,560 m (5,118ft) long engineering wonder connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. It’s more than just a bridge – it’s the city’s ultimate symbol, turning your ordinary commute into a transcontinental adventure.
After its completion in the 70’s, the Bosphorus Bridge had the fourth-longest suspension bridge span in the world. Today, it stands tall as one of the best Istanbul landmarks, fascinating all who cruise along the Bosporus Strait. When the sun sets, this famous bridge transforms into a light show, painting the sky with changing colours and patterns. It’s a perfect show that crowns your Istanbul experience.
Now you know what the best Istanbul landmarks are!
What are your favourite landmarks in Istanbul? Did we miss anything? Please let us know in the comments below. If you like our post, save it also to Pinterest.
Pin 19 Istanbul landmarks for later!
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:
