Istanbul, here you can see the colaboration of modernism and history which date back to 660BC. Its were the greatest empires like Byzantine and Ottoman ruled and it lies in two continents asia and europe, divided by the Bosporus strait.

5 thing to do at istanbul for free.

Time travel walk

Experience the joy of walking from Taksim square into Istikal Avenue and head to Galata Bridge. You will have joy just by walking here.

Taksim is the main business and entertainment centre in the city. The monument of Mustafa Kemel Ataturk can be found,he was a national hero.

Galata bridge spans on Golden Horn waterway past a line of fishermen and you can have some breathe taking views from that location.

Spice Market and Grand Bazaar

Across Galata Bridge you can find the 17th century spice market which is also know as Egyptian Bazaar. Spices, dried fruits, nuts, apple tea, essential oils and Turkisk Delight shops can be found in this bazaar. Most of the shop keepers greet you in your own mother tongue as they are aware of 15 languages. You are entitled to taste the delights, but if you are just window shopping then dont forget to refuse politely.

20-minutes from there you can see the Beyazit Square, which is home to the Grand Bazaar. Grand Bazaar is listed by UN as a World Heritage site. This is more of a maze with covered streets and alleyways and has nearly 4500 stalls. This is a good place to walk around and too see the shopkeepers woo customers.

Mosques and churches

Theres no scarcity of religious sites in Istanbul. Most of them are muslim and christian houses of worship. And yeah they are free. 

Blue mosque is the topper in the list with 6 minarets and a cascade of domes. And the name obviously comes from the blue and white tiles.

A hidden gem that should not be missed is the 16th century Rustem Pasa Mosque in Eminonu Square near the Spice Market, boasting exquisite floral-design tiles.

Rustem Pasa Mosque build in the 16th century near Spice market is something that you wish you shouldnt miss. Floral-design tiles are the highlight.

Princes’ Islands

It was a place of exile during the Byzantine era, but was later made home by the Christian and jewish minorities. A ferry should be taken to reach here.

Motor vehicles are not allowed here. horse drawn carts and bicycles are the main form of travel. it is the best place to escape from the hustles and bustles of city life.

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