Istanbul is one of Turkey’s major cities, spanning the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia. Byzantium and Constantinople are two historical names for the city. In this article, I have shared detailed information about the museums, mosques, and churches of Istanbul for history enthusiasts.
Afterward, you can also take a look at the best things to do in the Istanbul article, which you have read here. Istanbul has a very rich history and culture and various destinations for tourists to see and mix with things to do, it sometimes oversees several cities and attractions. Which are in or near the city and this article will list places near Istanbul and beautiful cities near Istanbul that you can visit. Have a planned trip or planning to go. Just make turkish airlines booking right away and save up to 45% off on every flight to Istanbul. In short, there are so many things to do and see in Istanbul to engage in no matter what your preference is.
Chora Church
The Chora Church was converted into a mosque and renamed Kariye Mosque. This building, which remained a museum for nearly 80 years during the Republican era, became a mosque again in 2020. It is a drop-dead grand fresco-laden and mosaic church that is considered one of the best examples of Byzantine monuments. It is supported by columns, surrounded by sixteen distinctive tall windows, and illuminated by natural light.
Belgrad Forest
It is a mixed deciduous forest located near Istanbul and is a popular destination for tourists who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty preserved in this forest. Tourists can drive from the enterprise offices to the woods and enjoy activities such as trekking and hiking through its many trails, taking nature walks, or even picnics or barbecues in certain designated areas.
Topkapi Palace
Located in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, Topkapi Palace is a magnificent oriental palace and one of the richest museums in the world located in a triangular province dominated by the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. It was the residence of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th century to the middle of the 19th century. It has four courtyards, terraces with stunning views, as well as the Precious Collection, one of the city’s top tourist attractions.
Galata Tower
Galata Tower, with its characteristic witch’s hat roof, is located in the Galata district, is an old Genoese tower that overlooks the city, and has a great restaurant at the top. Travelers can enjoy 360-degree excellent panoramic views of Istanbul, the Golden Horn, and the Bosphorus.
Prince’s Island
It is a group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara and is considered a popular destination for tourists as well as locals looking to escape the busy city life. It is dotted with fragrant tangerines, lemon trees, pink magnolias, and impressive wooden mansions. In olden times, royal empresses and princes were exiled here, and hence, it came to be known as Prince’s Island. This is one of the more comfortable places to visit near Istanbul.
Cappadocia
This historical place is located in Central Anatolia and is one of the most popular places to visit near Istanbul. Tourists come here to see these historical sites and take a hot air balloon ride, which is one of the most famous things to do in Cappadocia over the canyon or hiking, which is quite popular, the site is for students, Ideal for historians and people interested in the history of the region.
Grand Bazar
If you are looking for the best Turkish cuisine, then Grand Bazaar should be your ideal stop. It is the largest covered market in the whole world, and you can see people bargaining here to get the best deals. It has thousands of shops where you can buy everything from silk clothing to jewelry to leather and carpets. This vibrant market has forty rest houses, eighteen gates, sixty-one covered streets, and twenty-five thousand full-time employees.
Fener and Balat
Fenor and Balat have been one of the most popular walking routes in Istanbul in recent years. These districts, which had Greek and Jewish quarters during the Ottoman period, have a cosmopolitan structure. During the Fener Balat Walking Tour, you can visit the historic church, synagogue, and mosque. When you get tired of walking and taking pictures, you can relax at the boutique coffee shops that open up in the neighborhood.
Last Thought
These are some of the best places near Istanbul for you to visit. Istanbul itself is a wonderful city with many attractions and rich culture, but if you are an explorer at heart then you must visit these destinations as there are many places to see near Istanbul. So what do you think about it? Plan a trip to Istanbul with AirlinesMap right away and get exciting deals to explore the city in and out.
