4 things to do in istanbul

East meets west in Istanbul. There’s nowhere else like it in the world. You’ll definitely want to visit, and when you do, here are four of our recommendations for things you should put on your list.

1. DELICIOUS DINING

Istanbul is one of the world’s great food cities, and when you visit there are so many amazing things to try. Sehzade Erzurum Cag Kebabi serves a type of kebab roasted on a horizontal spit. As soon as you order, skewers are sliced off the main kebab and it’s some of the most incredibly flavorful lamb you’ll ever taste. I especially enjoyed it wrapped in bread with onions and sumac.

2. THE BLUE MOSQUE

The Blue Mosque (called Sultanahmet Camii in Turkish) is a historical mosque in Istanbul. The mosque is known as the Blue Mosque because of blue tiles surrounding the interior walls. The mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 years, during the rule of Ahmed I. The best way to see the great architecture of the Blue Mosque is to approach it from the Hippodrome. (West side of the mosque) And, if you are a non-Muslim visitor, you also have to use the same direction to enter the Mosque.

3. SCENIC BEAUTY

For a truly romantic experience, head to the old quarter at sunset with its spectacular skyline of palaces, mosques, and minarets. Monumental architectural works reflect the cultural influences of the many great empires that once ruled here, and those seeking adventure will be transported back in time as layers of history unfold at your feet.

4. HAGIA SOPHIA

Start with one of the great wonders of the ancient world. Built in the sixth century, the Hagia Sophia reigned as the world’s largest cathedral for almost a thousand years, and today it is a museum exemplifying Byzantine architecture and design. Tour the staggering structure to see the main 105-foot dome — an unprecedented feat at the time of its construction — in addition to carved marble fixtures, frescoes, and intricate mosaic masterpieces.