Hagia Sophia Museum

“Located in Sultanahmet, Topkapı Palace was the official residence of the Sultans for four centuries from the capture of Constantinople by the Ottomans. It is built on the edge of the Seraglio, a strategic location in the entrance of the Bosphorus Strait. It extends over 70 hectares and at the time was like a city within the city. The palace had four courtyards , gardens , kiosks and fountains. More than 4,000 people lived there including a thousand women in the harem. These days as a visitor you can admire the gorgeous rooms of the palace, and collections of works and objects such as weapons , jewelry and clothes from the Ottoman court through the ages . Open all week except Tuesday from 9am to 5pm.”

“Ten minutes walk from us, the Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul's most famous attractions. As it is a working Mosque entrance is free, but may be restricted at prayer times.”

“Ten minutes walk from us, opposite Hagia Sofia. this well renovated Roman Cistern (water reservoir) is not only spectacular but provide a nice break from the heat of the summer.”

“It's a unique experience where you need to go to stroll around and shopping. Don't forget to ask for a bargain. There is a local restaurant called "Pandeli" which I highly recommend.”

“Vividly coloured spices are displayed alongside jewel-like lokum (Turkish delight) at this Ottoman-era marketplace, providing eye candy for the thousands of tourists and locals who make their way here every day. Stalls also sell caviar, dried herbs, honey, nuts and dried fruits. The number of stalls selling tourist trinkets increases annually, yet this remains a great place to stock up on edible souvenirs, share a few jokes with vendors and marvel at the well-preserved building. The market was constructed in the 1660s as part of the New Mosque, with rent from the shops supporting the upkeep of the mosque as well as its charitable activities, which included a school, hamam and hospital. The market's Turkish name, the Mısır Çarşısı (Egyptian Market), references the fact that the building was initially endowed with taxes levied on goods imported from Egypt. In its heyday, the bazaar was the last stop for the camel caravans that travelled the Silk Road from China, India and Persia. On the west side of the market there are outdoor produce stalls selling fresh foodstuff from all over Anatolia, including a wonderful selection of cheeses. Also here is the most famous coffee supplier in İstanbul, Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi, established over 100 years ago. This is located on the corner of Hasırcılar Caddesi, which is full of shops selling food and kitchenware.”