Istanbul friends

A marvel of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, this former church, then mosque, then museum, and now mosque again, boasts an immense dome and stunning mosaics. Since July 2020, it operates as an active mosque. Tourists can visit outside of prayer times, with modest dress required and head coverings for women. A paid upstairs gallery offers a separate viewing experience for tourists.

• Check prayer times in advance to plan your visit.
• Modest clothing is mandatory; scarves are available for loan.
• Be prepared to remove shoes before entering.

Famous for its six minarets and cascading domes, this imperial Ottoman mosque is renowned for its interior adorned with tens of thousands of Iznik tiles, giving it its name. Entry is free, but visitors must adhere to modest dress codes and remove their shoes.

• Dress modestly and be prepared to remove shoes.
• Avoid visiting during prayer times.

An awe-inspiring ancient underground water reservoir with hundreds of marble columns, many salvaged from ancient ruins. The eerie atmosphere, illuminated walkways, and the mysterious Medusa heads at the base of two columns make it a unique historical site.

• Book tickets online to skip potential queues.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there is some walking involved.

A legendary, no-frills eatery famous for its delicious grilled meatballs (köfte) and piyaz (bean salad). It's a quintessential Istanbul experience for authentic local flavors.

• Expect a queue during peak hours.
• Their specialty is the köfte; try it with ayran (yogurt drink).

The opulent primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for centuries, this sprawling complex offers a glimpse into imperial life with its courtyards, treasuries, and the famous Harem. Explore its historical exhibits and enjoy panoramic views of the Bosphorus.

• Allocate at least 3 hours to explore thoroughly.
• Consider the combined ticket for the Harem section.

One of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets and ceramics to jewelry and spices. It's a vibrant sensory experience, perfect for souvenir hunting and soaking in the atmosphere.

• Haggling is expected, but start with a reasonable offer.
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

A fragrant riot of colors and aromas, this historic market is filled with stalls selling exotic spices, dried fruits, nuts, Turkish delight, and teas. It's a more focused shopping experience than the Grand Bazaar.

• Sample the Turkish delight and dried fruits.
• Look for high-quality saffron and sumac.

A renowned establishment for authentic Turkish desserts, including baklava, künefe, and aşure, alongside traditional Turkish coffee and tea. It's an ideal spot to indulge your sweet tooth after a day of exploration.

• Try their signature künefe, a hot cheese pastry.
• They offer a wide variety of Turkish delight flavors.

Once a monastery church, it is celebrated for its exceptionally preserved Byzantine mosaics and frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Since its reclassification as a mosque, it operates with visitor access outside of prayer times. Some artworks may be covered during prayer services.

• Check visiting hours as they can be affected by prayer times.
• Modest attire is required.

Experience Istanbul from its iconic waterway, the Bosphorus Strait, separating Europe and Asia. Various tours offer stunning views of palaces, mosques, fortresses, and waterfront mansions.

• Opt for a sunset cruise for spectacular views.
• Bring a light jacket as it can be breezy on the water.

A picturesque baroque mosque situated right on the Bosphorus shore in the vibrant Ortaköy neighborhood. Its elegant facade is a popular photo spot, especially with the Bosphorus Bridge in the background.

• Combine with a stroll through the Ortaköy market (weekends).

Located in the Salt Galata building, this restaurant offers contemporary Anatolian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and a refined dining experience. It boasts stunning views of the Golden Horn.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• Explore the art galleries in the Salt Galata building before or after dinner.

A medieval stone tower offering 360-degree panoramic views of Istanbul, including the Golden Horn, Bosphorus, and historic peninsula. It's a popular spot for photographers and those seeking a breathtaking city vista.

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the longest queues.
• The views are spectacular at different times of day.

A bustling pedestrian street in the Beyoğlu district, lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, cinemas, and historical buildings. It's a vibrant hub of modern Istanbul life, often featuring street performers.

• Ride the historic red tram that runs along the avenue.
• Explore the side streets for hidden gems and boutiques.

A highly regarded patisserie famous for its wide variety of baklava and other traditional Turkish sweets. It's a perfect stop for a sweet treat and Turkish tea or coffee.

• Sample different types of baklava to find your favorite.
• They also sell packaged sweets that make great gifts.

Located in the Kadıköy district (Asian side), this renowned restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Anatolian home cooking, featuring a daily changing menu of regional specialties. It offers a true taste of traditional Turkish cuisine.

• Take a ferry to Kadıköy to reach this restaurant.
• The menu changes daily, so there's always something new to try.