I love visiting historical buildings that carry the depth of culture. Usually such places are not promoted in the list of highlights in the city. You will need a couple of more days extra to visit these relatively off the beaten path sites. The first Ottoman Imperial Mosque, now called Fatih Mosque and Complex or the Mosque of the Conqueror, is one of such sites.
By 1470 Fatih had completed the great mosque which is comparable in size to the Haghia Sophia. This lovely structure has one huge dome in the center that rests on four elephant feet pillars which are also supported by semi domes. But the interesting thing is that this mosque was built on the ruins of the Church of the Holy apostles which was built during the reign of Constantinus I. As seen in most of the historical buildings in Turkey one holy spot is continued to be used as a holy spot no matter the religion. This is what makes İstanbul so unique.
If you have time, or can create time, visit this mosque. Don't be shy, enter and observe the interior. Perceive the light and the spiritual feeling and feel the peace and comfort.
Find your way with 236 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The café, nestled among the bookshelves, serves as a cosy refuge where one can savour their coffee while getting lost in the pages of a newfound gem.
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Borboleta welcomes you with the warmth and comfort of home and yet with an elegant service like you belong to a royal community.
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From internationally acclaimed jazz masters to dynamic dance performances, the CRR Concert Hall consistently offers top-notch entertainment.
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Suna'nin Yeri's commitment to sourcing only the finest seafood is evident in every bite. Everything that is served here is fresh and sourced daily.
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"Homemade Aromaterapi" is a small, beautiful shop in Kuzguncuk, Istanbul. Come here for cold-pressed essential oils, cleansers, soaps, toothpaste & more!
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"Kuzguncuk" in Istanbul is a uniquely beautiful neighborhood with old colorful houses, mansions and friendly shopkeepers - a sense of connected community.
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The "Tortoise Trainer" is one of my favorite paintings to be found in Istanbul. You can see it in the contemporary/orientalist Istanbul Pera museum.
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The "Chandeliers in Istanbul's Hagia Sophia" have their own little recent story which is good to remember whenever you pay a visit... Lighting is key!
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The "Pera Museum" is for you if you're into art from the life of Istanbul and the Ottoman world between the 17th and early 20th century...
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With it large garden and lovely ambience, "Primitif Birahane" in Istanbul resembles 'biergartens' in Germany, though here you will find plenty of cats...
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"Vogue Restaurant Bar" is one of Istanbul's higher end spots. The food is great, but I would recommend the signature (molecular) cocktails. How about...
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"Banyan" is my bar/restaurant of choice in Istanbul's Ortaköy for a drink or dinner after work. In their terrace you'll feel as if you're on a ship's deck.
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236 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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