3 Top Attractions of Incredible Istanbul

A truly sensational city to visit, once your Istanbul airport transfer has delivered you to your accommodation you'll want to make the most of your time. It can be a little challenging to figure out where you should go or what you should do first, so, with that in mind, use our suggestions to get you started.

The Galata Bridge

Depending on where you are staying, your Istanbul airport transfer may well take you across this bridge on your way to your accommodation – but you must return to explore on foot. The bridge crosses the Golden Horn and gives wonderful views of the city across the river. There has been a bridge here since the 6th century, but the current one you will walk across is the fifth to have been built. It is designed to take cars, pedestrians and also trams.

The Basilica Cistern

This is one of the most famous sights in the city, but unless you know where to look your Istanbul airport transfer could drive right past it and you wouldn’t know it! One of the more famous aspects of the cistern is the Medusa pillars. One of these is upside down and is of a significant size. Many people are stunned by the size of the cistern itself, which is thousands of square metres in volume. It has featured in many books and films, and is a spectacular sight to behold.

Hagia Sophia

This building has gone through several incarnations since it was built in the mid-500s. It took around five years to complete and since then it has been used as a church for various religions. It is now a museum and you could say the building itself is the best exhibit, thanks to its marvellously detailed structure. Don't miss the stunning mosaics that you can find around the building – you may get a glimpse as you pass by on your Istanbul airport transfer, but it certainly bears returning for a closer inspection. As one of the city's premier attractions, it's worthwhile setting aside at least half a day to wander around at your leisure and learn more about this beautiful piece of ancient architecture.

These are just three of the best sights this wonderful city has to share with you. However, make no mistake – it has plenty more, including markets, famous historical locations and much more. However long you are here for, it is worth exploring as much of it as you can. There is so much history reaching far back into the past, with many signs of it still remaining today.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for an Istanbul airport transfer, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.