Istanbul Places To Visit: 7 stunning photos that will convince you to visit Istanbul once

Panchali Dey, TIMESOFINDIA.COM, TRAVEL TRENDS, ISTANBUL Created : Nov 9, 2021, 17:30 IST

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7 stunning photos that will convince you to visit Istanbul once

What makes Istanbul so beautiful and captivating? From the cobbled lanes to brilliant marble-clad palaces, it’s a destination unlike any other on earth. Here, every street has a story to tell, and these stunning photos will offer you some stunning glimpses of the beauty that lies.

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The Bosphorus

The Bosphorus not only splits Istanbul between two continents, Asia and Europe, it also connects the Black Sea with the Mediterranean. It’s likely one of the world’s most important straits, whereas its watery boundary is home to residential homes, as well as Byzantine and Ottoman fortifications, making it perfect for a boat trip.

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Hagia Sophia

Erected in 537 CE, Hagia Sophia was once the world’s largest cathedral as a Byzantine basilica, before it was converted in 1453 into an Ottoman mosque. Yet, it is still as breathtaking a structure as it was since the day it was constructed. In 2020, the Hagia Sophia has been turned again into a mosque; even non-Muslims can visit but you do have to dress appropriately.

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The rainbow steps

When you visit the arty Cihangir district of Istanbul, you get to see these colourful rainbow steps. Interestingly, there is a beautiful story around it, which is similar to that of the Selarón Staircase in Rio de Janeiro. Reportedly, a retired forestry engineer painted the steps in bright colours over four days. He did that to offer people something to smile about.

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Topkapi Palace

The marvellous Topkapi Palace was built by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, and is well-known for its brilliant designs that adorn the ceilings and walls. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also one of the best examples of Ottoman architecture, which had undergone numerous adaptations to reflect each reigning Sultan’s tastes, thereby making it a unique piece of Istanbul history.

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Trams of Istanbul

There is no doubt that there are numerous transport options available in a huge city like Istanbul. Yet, the restored 19th-century tram on İstiklal Caddesi is one of the great and best ways to get around the place. You enjoy these trams for nostalgic novelty, and not necessarily for efficiency.

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Tophane-i Amire

This former 15th-century cannon foundry is known for its grandeur and is truly captivating. It’s another commission of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, and has gone to those various uses, i.e., from military museum to education centre. Now, this spot serves as an ideal architectural location that plays host to art exhibitions in its three cathedral-like spaces.

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Kariye Museum

This former Greek Orthodox Church is a hidden gem of Istanbul, which boasts of remarkable Byzantine frescoes. It has now been transformed into a museum and displays an array of remarkable mosaics, depicting the life of Christ, whereas the painted dome shows Mary with 12 attendant angels. Don’t miss visiting this spot during your trip to Istanbul as it’s a little piece of heaven within the original walled part of the city.