Istanbul is a city that is full of history, culture, and beauty. There are many famous places to visit in Istanbul, but there are also many hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. If you are looking for something off the beaten path, here are 7 secret places to visit in Istanbul in July 2024.
July is a great time to visit Istanbul. The weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot. The city is also less crowded in July than it is in other months, so you can enjoy your vacation without having to deal with large crowds. Here are the best months to visit Istanbul, and what you could expect on a trip:
Istanbul is a city that is full of culture and tradition. You can explore the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Be sure to sample the local food, such as Turkish coffee, kebab, and baklava. You can also enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife, with its many bars and clubs.
The Great Palace Mosaics
The Great Palace Mosaics are a series of Byzantine mosaics that were discovered in the 1930s. The mosaics depict scenes from the life of Emperor Justinian I and his wife, Theodora. They are some of the finest examples of Byzantine art in the world.
To get to the Great Palace Mosaics, you can take the tram to the Sultanahmet stop. From there, it is a short walk to the mosaics. The mosaics are open to the public every day from 9am to 5pm.
The Arasta Bazaar
The Arasta Bazaar is a small bazaar that is located behind the Blue Mosque. The bazaar is home to a variety of shops that sell carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and other souvenirs. It is a great place to find unique and authentic Turkish gifts.
To get to the Arasta Bazaar, you can take the tram to the Sultanahmet stop. From there, it is a short walk to the bazaar. The bazaar is open every day from 9am to 7pm.
The Chora Museum
The Chora Museum is a former Byzantine church that is now a museum. The museum is home to a collection of Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. The mosaics are some of the best preserved examples of Byzantine art in the world.
To get to the Chora Museum, you can take the bus to the Edirnekapı stop. From there, it is a short walk to the museum. The museum is open every day from 9am to 5pm.
The Süleymaniye Mosque
The Süleymaniye Mosque is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Istanbul. The mosque was built in the 16th century by Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent. It is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.
To get to the Süleymaniye Mosque, you can take the tram to the Beyazıt stop. From there, it is a short walk to the mosque. The mosque is open every day from 9am to 6pm.
The Princes’ Islands
The Princes’ Islands are a group of nine islands that are located in the Sea of Marmara. The islands are a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways. They are home to a variety of beaches, parks, and historical sites.
To get to the Princes’ Islands, you can take a ferry from the Kabataş pier. The ferry ride takes about 75 minutes. The islands are open to the public every day from 9am to 6pm.
The Belgrad Forest
The Belgrad Forest is a large forest that is located on the outskirts of Istanbul. The forest is a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and camping. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and rabbits.
To get to the Belgrad Forest, you can take the bus to the Sarıyer stop. From there, it is a short walk to the forest. The forest is open to the public every day from 9am to 6pm.
The Yıldız Park
The Yıldız Park is a large park that is located in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul. The park is home to a variety of gardens, fountains, and pavilions. It is a popular destination for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.
To get to the Yıldız Park, you can take the bus to the Yıldız stop. From there, it is a short walk to the park. The park is open to the public every day from 9am to 6pm.
Conclusion
Istanbul is a city that is full of hidden gems. If you are looking for something off the beaten path, be sure to check out these 7 secret places.
In addition to these secret places, Istanbul is also home to a variety of other attractions, including museums, historical sites, and shopping malls. The city is also well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to get around. There are also a variety of local foods to try, and a variety of hotels to choose from. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, Istanbul is the perfect destination.
