Istanbul, Turkey
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque: Byzantine cathedral to Ottoman mosque, a 6th-century architectural masterpiece.
Blue Mosque: 17th-century mosque with six minarets and stunning blue İznik tiles. Active place of worship.
Vast collection of artifacts from Ottoman Empire and surrounding regions.
Collection of Islamic calligraphy, carpets, ceramics.
Well-preserved mosaics from Great Palace of Constantinople.
Once Byzantine sporting and social center. Features Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpent Column.
Column of Constantine stands nearby.
Sultanahmet District: Mix of Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles.
Fatih District: Ottoman-era residential architecture, grand mosques.
Numerous smaller mosques dot Sultanahmet. The Little Hagia Sophia Mosque and Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque.
German Fountain in Hippodrome, a gift.
Locals fish from Galata Bridge, a popular pastime.
Sultanahmet is close to Marmara Sea coast, offering glimpses of this inland sea.
Originally Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, beautiful Byzantine church, now a mosque.
Designed by Mimar Sinan, exquisite İznik tile work, quiet courtyard.
Many hotels and smaller eateries in Sultanahmet offer charming rooftop views.
Behind Blue Mosque, a smaller, less chaotic bazaar for artisan goods, ceramics, and textiles.
Offers a more relaxed shopping experience.
Former theological school, now a cultural center. Houses artisan workshops and a quiet courtyard cafe.
Glimpse into traditional crafts in a tranquil setting.
Focus on intricate details inside Blue Mosque.
Photograph mysterious inverted heads in Basilica Cistern.
Capture the atmosphere of Grand and Spice Bazaars.
Views from Pierre Loti Hill, a great sunset spot.
Allocate time for thorough exploration, especially at Topkapi Palace.
