Istanbul, Turkey

While it's not the modern capital of Turkey--that's Ankara--Istanbul is the capital in spirit. With its incredibly rich history and culture, it is one of the world's great cities.

Nuruosmaniye Mosque

Nuruosmaniye Mosque is newer than many of the other mosques in Istanbul, and its ornate Baroque style sets it apart.

Rustem Pasha Mosque

Nestled in a market area near the Spice Market, Rustem Pasha Mosque features exquisite Iznik tiles in its compact yet opulent interior.

Galata Bridge

The Galata Bridge has multiple personalities. It spans the Golden Horn from Eminonu to Karakoy and provides both a real and symbolic link connecting two key parts of Istanbul.

It’s one of Istanbul’s real treats to sit on the waterfront of Karakoy sipping Turkish tea, Rika, or a cold beer and watching the sun setting over the striking silhouettes of the mosques across the other side of the Golden Horn.

The Imperial Council Hall at Topkapi Palace

These three chambers, between the Harem and the rest of Topkapi Palace, are where Ottoman Sultans met with their imperial councils to conduct affairs of state.

The Blue Mosque

There are good reasons why the Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s prime attractions and one of the world’s iconic religious buildings.

Istanbul’s Grand “New” Mosque

In Istanbul, new is relative. The New Mosque might be newer than the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia, but having been completed in 1665 it is historic in its own right. And it’s also stunningly beautiful.

Istanbul’s Spice Bazaar

You can get a lot more than spices at Istanbul’s Spice Bazaar, but spices are the undeniable stars.

The Tombs of the Sultans

The Tombs of the Sultans at Hagia Sophia show that the Ottomans were as serious about their art and decoration in death as they were in life.

National Palaces Painting Museum

Reopened in a newly renovated space in the Crown Prince’s apartments of Dolmabahce Palace, the National Palaces Painting Museum showcases the collection of paintings of the national palaces. 

Istanbul’s Ancient Basilica Cistern

This isn’t just any old water tank. Buried under the streets next to Hagia Sophia might well be the most impressive water tank you’ll ever see.

Istanbul Naval Museum

If I was picking a name for this museum, I wouldn’t use the word “naval.” Istanbul Maritime History Museum would be a better fit. Or better yet: Royal Water Taxi Museum. But what impressive water taxis they are!

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul’s Byzantine Jewel

Hagia Sophia is old. Very old. The building that currently stands on the first of Istanbul’s famous seven hills dates back almost 1,500 years and has had a remarkable and colorful history. It’s also a beautiful place to visit.

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar

With about 4000 individual stores, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar has endless rows of storefronts and a staggering variety of merchandise that make for an assault on the senses and, potentially, on the wallet.

Istanbul’s Beautiful Mosques

Istanbul’s mosques dominate the city’s skyline, and their understated and elegant interiors can be stunningly beautiful.