Dolmabahce Palace The Dolmabahce Palace is located along the European shore of the Bosphorus Strait. Originally there was a shallow bay where the Ottoman fleet used to anchor their ships. After the 17th century the coast was filled in and converted into a nice garden with a couple of pavilions named as Besiktas Waterfront Palace complex, where the sultans used to relax enjoying the views.

Taksim Square Taksim Square (Taksim Meydani), Istanbul’s main modern hub, is located at the end of the pedestrian thoroughfare Istiklal Avenue (Istiklal Caddesi). A popular meeting place, Taksim Square is anchored by the Monument of the Republic and buzzes with activity day and night. The area historically hosts public celebrations, parades, and demonstrations.

Bosphorus Strait The Bosphorus Strait defines Istanbul. It is the divide between Europe and Asia, and the main connection between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Dotted with parks and elaborate Ottoman mansions, including Dolmabahce Palace, and spanned by three intercontinental bridges, the Bosphorus is the veritable heart of the city.

Bosphorus Bridge The Bosphorus Bridge (Bogazici Koprusu) in Istanbul is one of three continent-spanning bridges over the Bosphorus Strait, connecting Europe and Asia. When it opened in 1973, the 5,118-foot (1,560-meter) bridge was the fourth-longest suspension bridge in the world. And though it has since slid down the rankings, it is still an impressive sight to behold

KIz Kulesi Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) Located on an islet in the Bosphorus Strait, just offshore from Istanbul’s Uskudar neighborhood, Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) is a historical site that has inspired myths and legends. The Ottomans expanded and rebuilt the structure, and today it contains a restaurant and bar with views of the city

Galata Tower Rising high above its namesake neighborhood, Istanbul’s Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) dates back to the Genoese presence in Constantinople in the 14th century. An elevator takes you up to a viewing platform located under the roof, which offers panoramic views of the Old City peninsula and Beyoglu neighborhood.

Built in the 17th century, the covered Spice Bazaar is Istanbul’s fragrant hub for all things flavorful. Piles of pepper, saffron, teas, and dried apricots nestle alongside shops selling colorful Turkish delight, silk scarves, and glass mosaic lamps. Take time to chat with vendors, sip tea, and haggle for the perfect price.

The Suleymaniye Mosque, also known as the Suleymaniye Camii in Turkish, is a magnificent mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built during the Ottoman Empire under the rule of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and was completed in 1557. The mosque was designed by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, who also designed many other important buildings throughout Istanbul. The Suleymaniye Mosque is considered one of Sinan's greatest works and is one of the most important examples of Ottoman architecture. The mosque is known for its impressive size and striking beauty. It features a large central dome, as well as four smaller domes and two minarets. The interior of the mosque is decorated with intricate tile work and calligraphy, and the central prayer hall is surrounded by a colonnade of marble columns. In addition to its religious significance, the Suleymaniye Mosque also has a rich cultural and historical significance.

The Fener Rum Ortodoks Church, also known as the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, is a historic Greek Orthodox church located in the Fener district of Istanbul, Turkey. It is the primary church of the Eastern Orthodox Church and serves as the spiritual center of the Orthodox Christian world. The church was originally built in the 4th century, and over the centuries it has undergone numerous renovations and additions. It is considered one of the most important churches in the Orthodox Christian tradition, and it has served as the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate since the 6th century. The church features a striking combination of architectural styles, reflecting its long history and the various cultural influences that have shaped Istanbul over the centuries. It features a large central dome, as well as numerous smaller domes and minarets. it is considered one of the most important examples of Byzantine architecture in the world.

Pier Loti Hill, also known as Pierre Loti Tepesi in Turkish, is a popular hilltop viewpoint located in the Eyüp district of Istanbul, Turkey. The hill offers stunning panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the city of Istanbul, and it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The hill is named after the French author Pierre Loti, who was known for his love of Istanbul and his frequent visits to the city. Loti was a regular visitor to the hill, which was named in his honor after his death in 1923. To reach the top of the hill, visitors can take a cable car ride from the Eyüp district. At the top, there is a small café named after Pierre Loti, where visitors can enjoy a cup of Turkish tea or coffee while taking in the breathtaking views. In addition to its stunning views, Pier Loti Hill is also a popular destination for its historical significance. The hill is home to the Eyüp Sultan Mosque, which is considered one of the most important Islamic sites in Istanbul.