The Grand Bazaar

The largest surviving water cistern running underneath Istanbul city constructed in 532 AD. This example of the Byzantine Empire’s engineering prowess is 459 feet long, 229 feet wide, and can hold 100,000 tones of water.

Intricately designed mosque constructed in the early 1600s. One of the most recognizable religious building in the world. As an active place of worship, all visitors must wear long pants and women must also cover their heads and shoulders.

The architectural gem served as a church during the Byzantine Empire, then a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. In 1935, it was converted into a museum and now sees over 3 million visitors through its doors each year to marvel at the 11th-13th century mosaics, frescos, and exquisite architecture, and to say hello to resident Instagram star, Gli the cat.

Watch dozens of local fishermen throw their lines over the bridge from dawn to dusk. Dine at a seafood or traditional Turkish restaurant below the bridge. Admire the city from a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.