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Istanbul, according to locals

20 places that people in Istanbul keep recommending, across 1 map. Each map links every place to the comments behind it.

Places to visit in Istanbul

People steer visitors in Istanbul to Topkapı Palace for its art and Ottoman history (arrive at opening to beat the queues), the Basilica Cistern, which they call unique, the beautiful Blue Mosque, free outside prayer times, Dolmabahçe Palace for its gardens and Bosphorus setting, Süleymaniye Mosque for its views, and Greek and Roman statues at the Istanbul Archaeology Museums.

Most recommended

  1. Topkapı Palace49 people recommend, 17 warn against it

    Many visitors recommend Topkapı Palace, and several praise its beauty, art and Ottoman history, with several saying it takes hours to see.

  2. Hagia Sophia34 people recommend, 30 warn against it

    Many visitors recommend Hagia Sophia, and a few call it a must-see, while one visitor says nothing comparable exists elsewhere.

  3. Basilica Cistern32 people recommend, 11 warn against it

    Many visitors say the Basilica Cistern is worth seeing, with one calling it the most fascinating site they have visited and another naming it their favourite.

  4. Blue Mosque24 people recommend

    Many visitors praise the Blue Mosque, and several call it beautiful, stunning or gorgeous, though one visitor groups it with Hagia Sophia as optional rather than essential.

  5. Dolmabahçe Palace21 people recommend, 4 warn against it

    Two mention the lavish rooms, and visitors praise its gardens and Bosphorus setting, and many recommend it.

All 20 places on the map