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Turkey, Istanbul |
Learn about Turkey's most stunning city Istanbul.
Discover different things to do in Turkey Istanbul in summer.
Turkey is a captivating destination with stunning
landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and a myriad of things to do and
see. When it comes to exploring Turkey, Istanbul is undoubtedly the crown
jewel of the country. With its captivating history, vibrant culture, and
stunning architecture, Istanbul offers an unforgettable travel experience. In
this blog post, we will discuss 15 things to do in Turkey Istanbul in the
summer. So you can make the most of your visit.
Things to do in Turkey Istanbul in the summer
Visit the Blue Mosque:
This iconic mosque is one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks and should be on your must-visit list. With its stunning blue-tiled interior and impressive architecture, the Blue Mosque is a sight to behold. Visiting the Blue Mosque is a must-do activity when in Istanbul during the summer. The Blue Mosque is a real masterpiece that astonishes tourists with its magnificent architecture, detailed decorations, and gorgeous blue-tiled interior.
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Blue Mosque Istanbul |
It is Located in the heart of Istanbul's historic
Sultanahmet district. The mosque is an iconic landmark that dates back to the 17th
century. Visitors can take a tour of the mosque and admire its grandeur.
Moreover, they can also attend one of the five daily prayers to witness the
mosque's spiritual significance. The Blue Mosque is a must-visit destination
for those looking to immerse themselves in Istanbul's rich cultural
heritage.
2: Explore the Grand Bazaar:
The next place to visit in Turkey, Istanbul in summer is Grand Bazaar. With over 4,000 shops, the Grand Bazaar is a shopper's paradise. Here, you can find everything from spices and ceramics to carpets and jewelry. Exploring the Grand Bazaar is a fun-filled activity that you cannot miss when visiting Istanbul during the summer. This vibrant marketplace has over 4,000 shops that offer an array of goods, ranging from jewelry, spices, ceramics, and textiles.
The bazaar is a shopper's paradise, and haggling is a must-do when purchasing items. Visitors can also explore the narrow alleys and admire the architecture of the Grand Bazaar's historical buildings. With its lively atmosphere and endless shopping opportunities, the Grand Bazaar is a fun place to visit. Whether you're looking for souvenirs or simply browsing.
Take a cruise along the Bosphorus:
Enjoy stunning views of Istanbul's skyline while
cruising along the Bosphorus, the strait that separates Europe and Asia. Taking
a cruise along the Bosphorus is a delightful way to explore Istanbul during the
summer. Istanbul's European and Asian sides are divided by the
Bosphorus, and a cruise offers breathtaking views of the city's skyline. It
includes the majestic Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace.
Visitors can choose from a variety of cruises, ranging
from short tours to full-day excursions. This includes stops at fishing
villages and other attractions along the way. While on board, passengers can
enjoy Turkish cuisine, drinks, and traditional music, making for a
memorable experience. Taking a cruise along the Bosphorus is a must-do when visiting
Istanbul during the summer. Because of its unique perspective of the city's
beauty.
Visit the Hagia Sophia:
A museum showcasing Istanbul's rich history and architecture was first constructed as a church in the sixth century. Visiting the Hagia Sophia is an essential part of any trip to Istanbul during the summer. It's an architectural masterpiece that showcases Istanbul's rich history and culture, with stunning mosaics, intricate designs, and a massive dome that leaves visitors in awe.
You can take a tour of the museum and admire the
historical artifacts. You can also learn about the significance of the Hagia
Sophia in Istanbul's past and present. A visit to the Hagia Sophia is a must-do
when in Istanbul. It provides an unforgettable experience to visitors that
highlights the city's unique blend of history and culture.
Take a dip in the Hamams:
Hamams are traditional Turkish bathhouses where you can relax and unwind. They are the perfect way to beat the summer heat. Taking a dip in the hammams, or traditional Turkish baths is a must-do activity when in Istanbul during the summer. These historical baths date back centuries and offer visitors a unique and relaxing experience. The hammams feature hot steam rooms, warm marble slabs, and cold plunge pools. Which creates a rejuvenating atmosphere for both the body and mind.
If you want you also can indulge in a range of services,
including massages and body scrubs. The hammams are an important part of Turkish
culture and offer visitors a glimpse into the country's rich heritage.
Taking a dip in the hammams is a unique and refreshing way to experience
Istanbul during the summer.
Enjoy a Turkish breakfast:
Enjoying a Turkish breakfast is an essential part of experiencing Istanbul during the summer. Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast that typically includes bread, cheese, olives, tomatoes, and tea. Known as "kaval," Turkish breakfast is a lavish spread of savory and sweet dishes, including fresh bread, cheeses, olives, honey, jams, eggs, and traditional Turkish tea. The breakfast is a social event, with friends and family gathering together to enjoy the feast and conversation.
Some Visitors enjoy a Turkish breakfast in local cafes
and restaurants. Even some enjoy traditional Turkish households, immersing
themselves in the country's rich culinary traditions. A Turkish breakfast is
a great way to start the day. It will provide the energy needed to explore
Istanbul's many attractions during the summer.
Watch a Whirling Dervish performance:
The Whirling Dervish is a unique dance performance that originated in Turkey. It is a mesmerizing sight that you must experience. Watching a Whirling Dervish performance is a unique and mesmerizing experience when you are in Istanbul during the summer. The Whirling Dervishes are members of the Mevlevi Order. A Sufi Muslim group that practices the whirling dance as a form of meditation and devotion. The performance features the Dervishes dressed in traditional white robes and conical hats, spinning in a trance-like state to the sound of live music. The dance is a beautiful and spiritual performance that showcases the country's deep cultural heritage.
Moreover, you can watch the Whirling Dervishes perform in
various venues, including the Galata Mevlevihanesi, one of the most
famous dervish lodges in Istanbul. Watching a Whirling Dervish performance is a
must-do when visiting Istanbul during the summer, providing a glimpse into the
city's unique cultural traditions.
Visit the Topkapi Palace:
For most visitors, the Topkapi Palace is an essential activity when in Istanbul during the summer. Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, the Topkapi Palace is now a museum that showcases Ottoman art, artifacts, and architecture. This historical palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years, and it showcases the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Visitors can explore the palace's many rooms and courtyards, including the Imperial Harem, where the sultan's family lived, and the Treasury, which houses a vast collection of jewels, gold, and other treasures.
The palace also features stunning gardens and fountains,
providing a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. A visit to the Topkapi
Palace is a must-do when in Istanbul, providing a glimpse into the city's
rich history and cultural heritage.
Explore the Spice Bazaar:
Exploring the Spice Bazaar is a unique, delightful, experience while visiting Istanbul during the summer. Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, this market is a sensory delight with its colorful spices, teas, and sweets. The bazaar is a vibrant and bustling place, with vendors calling out their wares and the air filled with the scents of cinnamon, cumin, and other spices.
Furthermore, it offers visitors to browse the stalls and
purchase a variety of culinary delights, including Turkish delights, dried
fruits, and nuts. The Spice Bazaar is an essential part of Istanbul's
cultural heritage and offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and
traditions. Exploring the Spice Bazaar is a must-do activity when in
Istanbul during the summer, providing a unique and memorable shopping
experience.
Visit the Basilica Cistern:
This ancient underground water system is an architectural marvel that dates back to the Byzantine era. The cistern is an underground water storage system built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, and it's a remarkable example of ancient engineering. Visitors can explore the cistern's labyrinthine tunnels and marvel at the massive columns that support the ceiling.
The cistern features an eerie and mysterious atmosphere,
with dim lighting and reflections of the columns in the water creating a sense
of otherworldliness. Visitors can also see two famous columns with carved
Medusa heads at the base, which are believed to have been repurposed from earlier
Roman structures. A visit to the Basilica Cistern is a unique and
unforgettable experience that highlights Istanbul's rich history and
architectural heritage.
Go on a food tour:
If you are a true lover of food, then this tour of Istanbul is for you! Istanbul is a food lover's paradise, and there is no better way to experience its culinary delights than on a food tour. Going on a food tour is an excellent activity to do in Istanbul during the summer, especially for foodies. Istanbul is renowned for its delicious and diverse cuisine, blending influences from the Ottoman Empire, the Middle East, and Europe. A food tour is a great way to sample a variety of traditional Turkish dishes, such as kebabs, meze, baklava, and Turkish delight.
Moreover, you can also taste regional specialties, such
as stuffed mussels and kokorec (grilled lamb intestines). The tour
provides an opportunity to learn about the history and cultural significance of
the dishes and the ingredients used. Visitors can explore Istanbul's many food
markets, cafes, and restaurants, discovering hidden gems and local
favorites. A food tour is a must-do activity in Istanbul during the summer,
providing a delicious and authentic way to experience the city's culinary
traditions.
Watch a sunset at Galata Tower:
Watching a sunset at Galata Tower is a romantic and magical experience to have in Istanbul during the summer with your loved one. The tower is a medieval stone structure that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Bosphorus Strait. Visitors can ascend to the top of the tower and enjoy a stunning view of the cityscape as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the skyline.
The tower also features a rooftop restaurant where
visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the view. Watching
a sunset at Galata Tower is a must-do activity for couples and anyone seeking a
memorable and romantic moment in Istanbul during the summer.
Visit the Istanbul Modern Art Museum:
This contemporary art museum showcases the best of Turkish and international art. If you're a fan of modern and contemporary art, then a visit to the Istanbul Modern Art Museum is an absolute must when in Istanbul. The museum houses an impressive collection of Turkish and international art, featuring a wide range of mediums including painting, sculpture, installation, and video art.
The building itself is a work of art, a beautifully
renovated industrial structure located in the trendy Karakoy neighborhood. Exhibitions
at the Istanbul Modern Art Museum cover a diverse range of themes and topics,
with both permanent and temporary exhibits on display. From abstract
expressionism to new media, there's something for everyone at this impressive
museum.
Take a day trip to the Princes' Islands:
These car-free islands offer a peaceful escape from the city, with their charming streets, beaches, and lush greenery. The Princes' Islands are a group of nine small islands located in the Sea of Marmara, just off the coast of Istanbul. Visitors can take a ferry or a private boat to the islands and spend the day exploring their picturesque villages, beaches, and forests. The islands are car-free, and visitors can get around by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage.
The largest island, Buyukada, features stunning 19th-century
mansions and a charming town center with traditional shops and cafes. The
islands also offer many outdoor activities, such as swimming, hiking, and
horseback riding. A day trip to the Princes' Islands is a peaceful and
refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, providing a glimpse
into a slower pace of life and the natural beauty of the Sea of Marmara.
Attend the Istanbul International Music Festival:
This is for music lovers just like ME. If you're a music lover, you won't want to miss the Istanbul International Music Festival, which takes place in June and July. Attending the Istanbul International Music Festival is a must-do activity for music lovers visiting Istanbul during the summer. The festival is one of the city's most prominent cultural events, featuring a diverse lineup of classical, traditional, and contemporary music performances. It attracts renowned artists from around the world and takes place in some of Istanbul's most iconic venues, such as the Hagia Eirene Museum and the Istanbul Archaeology Museums.
The festival also provides a unique opportunity to
experience music from different cultures and eras, as well as to discover new
and emerging artists. The festival typically takes place in June and July, and
visitors can purchase tickets in advance to secure their seats for the
performances. Attending the Istanbul International Music Festival is an
unforgettable experience that highlights Istanbul's vibrant arts and culture
scene.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Istanbul is a city that offers a wealth
of experiences for travelers. From its stunning architecture and rich
history to its delicious cuisine and vibrant culture, there is no shortage of
things to do and see. And for art enthusiasts, the Istanbul Modern Art Museum
offers an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Overall,
Istanbul is a captivating city that offers a unique blend of history, culture,
and natural beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
So, plan your trip to Istanbul in the summer and make
sure to check out these 15 must-visit places.
GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR TRIP. ENJOY!
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