The Obelisk of Theodosius is an ancient Egyptian obelisk dating back to the 15th century BC, originally erected in the city of Karnak (Luxor) under Pharaoh Thutmose III. In the 4th century AD, it was transported to Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) by order of Roman Emperor Theodosius I and placed in the Hippodrome of Constantinople. Standing at about 35 meters tall, the obelisk is one of the oldest surviving monuments in Istanbul and is carved from a single block of red granite.
With its vibrant atmosphere, historical charm, and centuries-old tradition of commerce, the Grand Bazaar remains a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Istanbul’s cultural and commercial heart.
The Kariye Mosque, originally known as the Church of Chora, is a historic monument in Istanbul, Turkey, famous for its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics and frescoes dating back to the 14th century. Converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest, it was later transformed into a museum in 1948 before being reconverted into a mosque in 2020.
The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is a historic architectural masterpiece originally built as a cathedral in the 6th century under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest and later transformed into a museum, it was reclassified as a mosque in 2020 while preserving its rich cultural and religious heritage. The structure is renowned for its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and stunning blend of Christian and Islamic artistry.
Set in a 250-year-old inn, Olden 1772 offers a modern take on Anatolian cuisine. The restaurant serves breakfast, but is at its best in the evenings, when the historic interiors are at their most impressive.
A coffee shop on a quiet street in Moda, where the main wave of tourists doesn't reach. It's nice to have a coffee with a friend or work on your laptop here. The cupcakes will be a great pair to your drink: lemon and almond are especially popular here.
A stylish chain coffee shop with its own bakery, where you can have breakfast in the morning and drink decaf with dessert in the evening. They make an excellent espresso tonic here - a drink that is hard to find in Istanbul. And if you drink coffee at home, they will help you choose and grind the beans.
The coffee shop is located in an ivy-covered building with vintage details in the interior and creaky stairs. When you wait for coffee and dessert at the bar, go upstairs - - to enjoy a drink and the tranquility of the small rooms.
This lavish palace was the royal residence of the Ottoman empire for almost 400 years. Here, you can peek into the imperial life of the sultans as you wander through the grand courtyards, pavilions and ceremonial rooms that display an impressive collection of artefacts and treasures. With a separate ticket, you can also venture into the Harem—a private world decked with over 400 exquisitely decorated rooms where the sultan shared with his wives, concubines and children.
An unpretentious place on a noisy street in Kadikoy, where there is no end to guests. Here you should try pide - Turkish pizza, of which there are several dozen types on the menu. And the best pairing for your pide will be ayran or strong Turkish tea.
A restaurant in Karakoy with an inconspicuous entrance, but a pleasant view of the Bosphorus and the panorama of Sultanahmet. Try the grilled octopus, a popular meze in Turkey. And for the main course, try the mackerel sandwich balık ekmek or fish of your choice.
A restaurant from a Netflix show whose menu combines cuisine from different regions of Turkey. Here you will find classic dishes with the author's interpretation: for example, lahmacun with walnuts or chiya kebab made of beef and lamb, baked in a crispy thin dough.
A budget-friendly restaurant near the fish market in Karakoy. Here, you can try everything from salmon steak to popular Istanbul street food: mussels stuffed with rice, fish sandwich balk ekmek, and fried calamari rings.
One of the outlets of the minimalist coffee chain, which can be recognized by its light interior and stylish clientele. Here, coffee is not only well prepared, but also roasted: the barista will help you choose beans for your home and select the perfect grind.
Close to the village of Krushuna, nested in a lush forested landscape among the many karst rock formations, are the Krushuna Falls. The tallest of the falls is 20 meters high, where the turquoise water then splits into smaller falls and cascades over hunks of limestone, forming gentle pools and curious curves in the rock.
A fine dining restaurant awarded an Mspace star in 2024, it uses local ingredients, pays tribute to Turkey's culinary traditions, and adheres to the philosophy of mate 2 - a way for the team to honor the past while looking to the future.
A restaurant in fashionable Galataport from the creator of another Istanbul star, Turk Fatıh Tutak. The local menu explores the roots of Turkish and Asian cuisine intertwined along the ancient Silk Road, and pays tribute to the rich culinary traditions of the entire region.
Galata Tower is an iconic medieval stone tower located in Istanbul, Turkey, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus from its observation deck. Built by the Genoese in 1348 as part of their defensive walls, it has served various purposes throughout history, including a watchtower, prison, and fire station.
A third wave coffee shop with a great selection of beans for alternative brewing methods. Despite its location in a tourist area, the place is cozy and quiet: here you can either take a break from walking around crowded Karakoy or work on your laptop.
An elegant restaurant in a former cistern. It offers a carefully selected tasting menu, complemented by a signature cocktail list. Book a table for the evening and enjoy dinner in a historic setting.