Trip Moments Recommendations

Must-Visit Places in Istanbul for First-Timers!

Straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, Istanbul is truly a city with a rich history, brimming with beautiful and fun places to explore! Even after a week of fun, it still wasn't enough! / For first-timers in Istanbul, here are some must-visit spots: ✔️Hagia Sophia: One of the top ten most desirable churches in the world, this majestic Byzantine structure is a fusion of a church and a mosque. ✔️Blue Mosque: Adjacent to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is Istanbul's largest domed structure, surrounded by six minarets, making it the only mosque in the world with six tall towers, and one of the top ten wonders of the world. ✔️Basilica Cistern: A mysterious world hidden underground, well worth a visit. ✔️Bosphorus Strait: This strait divides Istanbul into European and Asian sections, with beautiful scenery on both sides. Be sure to take a boat tour here, especially at dusk for a stunning sunset! ✔️Galata Tower: A medieval stone tower, one of the city's scenic viewpoints. Even if you don't enter the tower, taking photos below it is also great. If you want to climb the tower, it's recommended to come in the evening to catch the city sunset. ✔️Galata Bridge Located near the Galata Tower, spanning the Golden Horn, this bridge connects the new and old parts of the city. With many locals fishing on both sides, and pedestrian paths above and below, it's also a great spot for sightseeing. ✔️Grand Bazaar: If you want to buy local products and souvenirs, the Grand Bazaar is a must-visit. Covering 60 streets and housing 5000 shops, it's bustling and vibrant. ✔️Istiklal Avenue: Istanbul's version of the Champs-Élysées, with its must-ride nostalgic tram, truly romantic. The surrounding area also has many quiet, artistic alleys, perfect for a stroll. ✔️Balat District A favorite area among Istanbul's youth, home to many unique coffee shops and restaurants, with colorful buildings that are great for photos. ✔️Topkapi Palace: An old royal palace, once the Ottoman Empire's palace, now Turkey's largest museum, incredibly luxurious inside! ✔️Suleymaniye Mosque: The second-largest mosque in Istanbul, situated on higher ground, visible from the Bosphorus boat tour, and offering a truly great view. / ⭕️ 'Recommended Route': 𝘿𝙖𝙮1: Hagia Sophia—Basilica Cistern—Blue Mosque—Topkapi Palace—Explore the Old City 𝘿𝙖𝙮2: Grand Bazaar—Galata Bridge—Istiklal Avenue—Galata Tower—Watch the sunset from the tower 𝘿𝙖𝙮3: Balat District—Suleymaniye Mosque—Bosphorus Strait—Boat tour at sunset / ⭕️ 'Transport Tips': The Old City can be explored on foot with citywalk. For other trips, you can take buses and boat tours, all accessible with a single transit card. / ⭕️ 'Accommodation Recommendations': For accommodation, it's recommended to stay near the Galata Tower, close to the Old City, with concentrated attractions and convenient access to food, fun, and transportation.

Fall in love with Hagia Sophia

#mymymemories Hagia Sophia- a major cultural & historical site in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia was built in 537 AD by the Roman Empire. It has gone from an Orthodox Church to a Museum, and now today Mosque. The scale & history when you step in side is truly amazing. Getting To the Mosque. You can reach Hagia Sophia by taking the Tran line T1 and getting off at the Sultanahmet Stop. Metro line M2 as well as the Train to Marmaray stop will also drop you off near the monument #travel #mymymemories

The beautiful architecture of Hagia Sophia

The historic and iconic architectural masterpiece - Hagia Sophia, also known as Ayasofya in Turkish that known for its magnificent structure and l history that spans over a millennium. Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul was listed under a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. Now has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to admire its stunning architecture, intricate mosaics, and its complex history. #history #unescoheritage #unescoworldheritage #turkey #museum #istanbul #mosque #travel

🇹🇷 The Most Fascinating Mosque 🕌

Attraction: Hagia Sofia Address: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye Direction: Walk few minutes from Sultan Ahmet Tram station Hagia Sofia is probably the most iconic landmark of turkey, visited by millions every year. Hagia Sophia is a great architectural beauty and an important monument both for Byzantine and for Ottoman Empires. Once a church, later a mosque, became a museum and then a mosque again. It was built 1500 years ago. The beauty of the mosque will forever be kept in your mind! It definitely is a MUST visit place to visit in Turkey. Tip: come early as the queue can get very long! #timetotravel #Istanbul #turkey #mosque #history

UNESCO World Heritage-Hagia Sophia

#wecreate History, Architecture and beautiful Mosaics 🤩 The Hagia Sophia, or ‘Ayasofya’ in Turkish, one of the most famous century church later became mosque in Istanbul. This architectural beauty with 30 million gold tiles throughout its interior and flat dome which was a bold engineering feat at the time it was constructed in the 6th century. Hagia Sophia should be on your bucket list place whenever you’re planning to visit Istanbul, it’s architecture continues to amaze with both its remarkable domed architecture and the amazing arts and mosaics inside. We had a guided tour which was helpful to learn about the history, see old photos, and more insight of the architectural facts. 📍Hagia Sophia Getting there; The Hagia Sophia is located right in the historic city centre of Istanbul in Turkey, and you can easily reach by public transport or walking distance if you’re in Sultanahmet neighbourhood. Istanbul Airport is a 45 minute drive away, and the Sultanahmet tram stop is a 5-minute walk away. #hagiasophia #istanbul #istanbulcity #turkey #turkeytravel #visitistanbul #visitistanbul #seltravels #createwithtrip #visitturkey #mytripvlog #city #unescoheritage #unescosite #awesomepic #tripblazers

Hagia Sophia: Masterpiece of Majesty

Hagia Sophia is absolutely breathtaking! The moment you step inside, you're instantly transported to a world of grandeur and awe. The sheer scale of the architecture leaves you speechless, as the immense domed ceiling seems to touch the heavens themselves. The interplay of light and shadow creates a mesmerizing dance that accentuates the intricate details adorning the walls and pillars. It's as if every inch of the interior is infused with centuries of history and artistry, whispering stories of Byzantine and Ottoman empires. As you walk through the vast halls, you can't help but feel a sense of reverence and wonder. The vastness of the central nave and the magnificent Byzantine mosaics leave you breathless. The artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating these masterpieces is truly mind-boggling. And then there's the famous Deesis mosaic, Allah and Muhammad calligraphy. The emotion and spiritual intensity emanating from this artwork are simply sublime. Hagia Sophia's transformation from a Byzantine cathedral to an Ottoman mosque, and eventually a museum, adds yet another layer of intrigue to its already captivating story. It's a symbol of cultural and historical fusion, a testament to the enduring power of architecture to transcend time and transcend boundaries. As you exit Hagia Sophia, you can't help but feel a mix of emotions. You're in awe of its splendor, grateful for the opportunity to witness such a remarkable monument, and humbled by the weight of its significance in shaping the course of history. Visiting Hagia Sophia is an experience that words struggle to capture adequately. It's a journey that ignites your imagination, stirs your soul, and leaves an indelible mark on your heart. You simply have to experience it for yourself to truly understand its magnificence. #wecreate

Historic Hagia Sophia 🕌

One of my memorable moment was visiting Hagia Sophia in istanbul. I had a wonderful and unforgettable traveling experience to this museum, Hagia Sophia literally means “Holy Wisdom” Ancient wonder and is one of the world's stunning architecture. It’s an important monument both for Byzantine and for Ottoman Empires, and it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 . This building has witnessed greatest cultural diversity, rich history and perfectly illustrates "East meets West” Please go and see one of world's most unique historic buildings in Istanbul! #wecreate #Ayasofya #hagiasophia #istanbul #Seltravels #mytripvlog #Visitistanbul #turkiye #turkey #architecture #historic #unesco #unescoworldheritage #istanbulturkey

The stunning Hagia Sophia mosque in Istanbul

The most noticeable landmark in Istanbul is the Hagia Sophia, a beautiful mosque with an illustrious history. it is open to the public for free, but visitors must be flexible as entry is around prayer times. Women must cover their hair and all visitors must remove footwear to enter. Upon entry you will be mesmerized by the intricate details on the ceiling and lighting. #istsnbul #turkey

Hagia Sophia: Serenity Beneath Historic Vaults

My visit to the Hagia Sophia was an immersion in a serene and profound experience. As I stepped inside, the blend of Byzantine and Islamic artistry, exquisitely displayed across the expansive walls and ceiling, was an awe-inspiring sight. The grandeur of the architectural details was balanced by an unexpected tranquility. Despite being surrounded by other visitors, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace as I allowed my gaze to wander upwards. The dome, seemingly suspended between heaven and earth, evoked a sense of timelessness. The intricate mosaics and calligraphy that adorned the walls and ceiling seemed to narrate tales from the past, inducing a meditative state. This visit to Hagia Sophia was not just a tour of an iconic landmark, but a deeply personal journey into a realm where history, art, and spirituality seamlessly converge. #myperfectstaycation #flowerlover #foodie #本地遊 #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #passionpassport #HagiaSophiaVisit #HistoricTranquility #ByzantineArtistry #IslamicInfluence #PeacefulInteriors #SerenityInIstanbul #ArchitecturalGrandeur #TimelessDome #MosaicNarratives #SpiritualJourney

An incredible mosque in Istanbul

No shadow of a doubt that Turkey has the best architectural mosques . They’re simply breathtaking, the architecture, the writings, everything around them is just majestic. What a blast we had here in Istanbul, thanks to all these islamic architectures around the city. The sound of Azan or call for prayers is extremely nice and soothing, will never get enough of it! Incredible memories

Istanbul 🇹🇷 must visit Hagia Sophia

A very beautiful attraction I visited,Hagia Sophia Sophia Grand Mosque and major cultural and historical site in Istanbul, Turkey. The mosque was originally built as an Eastern Orthodox church and was used as such from the year 360 until the conquest of Constantinople by the Ottoman Empire in 1453. It served as a mosque until 1935, when it became a museum. In 2020, the site once again became a mosque. 📍hagia Sophia Address : sultan Ahmet, faith Istanbul,turkey Opens 24 hours #turkey #turkeyair #turkishairlines #mytripvlog

Hagia Sophia Mosque

The Hagia Sophia was no doubt a Byzantine architectural masterpiece of its time. It represented the splendor and grandeur of the Byzantium Empire. For every visitor to Istanbul, this should be top priority in terms of tourist sites to experience. It was originally referred to as a place of 'Holy Wisdom' or 'Divine Wisdom'. If you are visiting during the tourist peak season, there will be long lines of people waiting to enter the building. I suggest visiting as early as possible. Cankurtaran, Sultanahmet Meydanı, Caferiye Sk. No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye #mytripvlog#awesomepic#celebratewithtrip

Amazing Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

#tripblazers #urbanexplorer #awesomepic #istanbul #turkey #hagiasofia It was built by the eastern Roman emperor Justinian I as the Christian cathedral of Constantinople for the state church of the Roman Empire. Its architecture was considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture and at one point had the largest interior in the world. After the conquest of Constantinople it became a mosque until 1935, when it became a museum. It became once again a mosque in 2020.

Morning visit to Hagia Sophia

#2023travelwish Located at Faith, Istanbul. Hagia Sophia, officially the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, is a mosque and major cultural and historical site in Istanbul, Turkey. The cathedral was a Greek Orthodox church from 360 AD until the conquest of Constantinople by the Ottoman Empire in 1453. It served as a mosque until 1935, when it became a museum. Hagia Sophia is famous in particular for its massive dome, it is considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture and is said to have “changed the history of architecture”. It remained the world's largest cathedral for nearly a thousand years, until Seville Cathedral was completed in 1520.

Fabulous trip to Istanbul ❤️ #couplestrip

The beautiful Hagia Sophia mosque

Absolutely breathtaking mosque with a very rich history. I recommend going around prayer times to observe hagia sophia and the blue mosque take turns calling for prayer. Don't be turned off by long lines, the line moves quickly.

Istanbul - perfect spot for fall trip

#fallingforfall #tripblazers #urbanexplorer #awesomepic #bucketlistreboot #mytripvlog Due to decent weather (compared to other top cities in Europe), Istanbul is the perfect destination for a short city trip! The Turkish capital is a mixture of different cultures, countries and stories. On the one hand, there is Byzantine Hagia Sophia from 5th century - still existing in rather non-changed building form. On the same place, there is magnificent Ottoman Blue Mosque. In general, Istanbul is the place where various histories are linked each other - also its location between Europe and Asia supports this feeling. For this cultural and historical diversity, Istanbul is definitely my favourite spot in Turkey and one of the best in whole Middle East.

Istanbul Grand Mosque

#bucketlistreboot Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is a major cultural and historical site in Istanbul, built in 537, with minarets added in the 15th-16th centuries when it became a Mosque. It is located at Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofa Meydani No:1, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul. The interior with Christian and Islamic elements and the view of the Dome has spurred particular interest for many visitors. Hagia Sophia can be considered as the best and the most visited sights in Istanbul and declared as one of the world's greatest architectural works and accepted as the 8th winder of the World.

Ayasofia masjid Turkey

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

The wonder of the world and the heart of Istanbul! It was a church and then became a mosque🕌. Amazingly beautiful place! History there lives in every stone. You can see mosaics from 13th century, paintings and old stone carvings. Hagia Sophia impresses everyone! ✅I recommend you to come here in the morning, when all the other tourists are busy with the breakfast. In this case you will have some time to enjoy that real masterpiece in a peaceful atmosphere. 📍The Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet. It is next to the other main sightseeings of Istanbul: Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque (2 minutes away) and Topkapi Palace . #bucketlistreboot

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia, officially the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, is a mosque and major cultural and historical site in Istanbul, Turkey. Originally a Greek Orthodox church, the site has changed between being a mosque and a museum since the fall of the Byzantine Empire.

Once a church, then a mosque, then a museum!

This is my second time to Hagia Sophia Museum and it never cease to amaze me! The richness of history of Hagia Sophia was elegantly show in each part of it! Wall decoration, ceiling dome, everywhere, beautifully preserved thru time! Originally built as a church by Roman Empire, transformed into mosque during Ottoman Empire, and now transformed into museum. I can just stand there for hours and soak into the depth of Hagia Sophia history!

Hagia Sophia Mosque

Hagia Sophia Mosque is one of the most important religious and historical building in Istanbul. The location is quite convenient as it is in the hearth of the city's down town. The whole visit, including walking around and taking pictures should last between 1 to 2 hours. It’s a place that is worthy to see both: during day and night time as the lights makes the place look stunning. After the visit, you can also enjoy some shopping or nice food as there are many restaurants and shops around the area. This place is open 24 hours. #createwithtrip #turkey #holidays #exploring #createwithtrip

NICE !!!

the new name is hagia sofea mosque

Hagia Sophia Jamia Masjid

main gate Thumb mark on the Pilar Aya Sophia Jamia Masjid Istanbul Turkey

Hagia Sophia the 8th wonder of the world

The Hagia Sophia is well worth visiting. It was built as a Christian cathedral, it later became a mosque and last century it became a museum. There is both Christian art and Islamic symbols there (and a little bit of Viking graffiti) They have a short film of the history of the building that you can see inside the building. Plus it is right beside the Blue Mosque in the centre of Istanbul. Built by the eastern Roman emperor Justinian I as the Christian cathedral of Constantinople for the state church of the Roman Empire between 532 and 537, the church was then the world's largest interior space and among the first to employ a fully pendentive dome. #awesomepic #staycation #urbanexplorer #naturalwonders #staycation #istanbul #hagiasophia #istanbulcity #turkey #sultanahmet #vacation #visitturkey

Hagia Sophia atau Aya Sofya adalah sebuah tempat ibadah di Istanbul, Republik Turki. Dari masa pembangunannya pada tahun 537 M sampai 1453 M, bangunan ini merupakan katedral Ortodoks dan tempat kedudukan

This majestic building is one of the famous one in Istanbul. I visited the place during the winter so the weather was not that good though we could still get nice blue sky. Last year the museum has been transformed back into a mosque but still there’s museum in it that you can get into. #wintergetaway #wintergetaway#tripinspired

#holidayvacation Once I point my destination to Turkey on 2020 to visit my friend from Europe there. I wouldn’t expect that how my experience is gonna be . I have decided to book a flight from Trip.com and the journey has gun. I land at Istanbul airport. After I walked out the door of the airport I have found that the weather is changed a lot. it was too cold for me because I was from a hot country. haha 😆 it took me sometime to adapt but I would say the weather is clear and fresh. We walked to visit Hague Sophia in the first place and once we get there there is no description. it was something I never see in my life before and coming to turkey opens my world and my heart to fall in love with Hagia Sophia. We walk around there are some market and it have a long walking street that we enjoy exploring around. #holidayvacation

#hagiasophia