The poets were accurate in describing Istanbul as a "bejewelled woman." In fact, Istanbul is much more than that; it could be more precise to refer to it as "a woman bejewelled with a thousand treasures." Because here, you can have whatever you want, and you can see breathtaking landscapes as well as unique cityscapes that demonstrate where east meets west.
1. Sapphire
After the Shard in London, the Istanbul Sapphire is Europe's second-tallest building. It has 66 levels, with 10 of them subterranean. The 236-meter-tall structure houses a shopping centre, a parking garage, and residential units. It is one of the best Istanbul overlooks in 2020 since it has a viewing deck on the top floor from which you can see the city with your own eyes. You can also pay a fee to use the observation tools.
Getting there: Sapphire is adjacent to Levent, one of Istanbul's major financial areas, and is located in Istanbul's Kathane district, eliktepe neighborhood. If you're taking public transportation, the Metro is perfet, and the M2 line will take you to Sapphire. If you're driving, park in the building's lot.
2. Galata Tower
The Galata Tower, which everyone in Istanbul visits at least once, was completed in 528 by the Byzantine Emperor Anastasius. Galata Tower's history makes it a one-of-a-kind Istanbul vista even in 2020. The original wooden structure was destroyed by fire in 1348, and the Genoese rebuilt it in stone, renaming it Christea Turris. The tower was taken over by the Ottomans in 1453 and was utilized for various functions. The tower's peak is 66.9 meters above ground and 140 meters above sea level. From here, you may get a great perspective of Old Istanbul. The elevator may take you to the first seven floors, but the latter two must be accessed via stairs.
Getting there: The Metro is the most convenient way to get to Galata Tower in Beyolu's Bereketzade District. Take the Yenikap-Hacosman Metro line to işhane. The tower is only a short walk away if you follow the instructions for the Refik Stadium Street exit. If you're coming from Istiklal Street, keep an eye out for the signage as you get closer to the tunnel. You'll have to walk uphill from Bankalar Street to Eminönü. If you are driving, turn right when you see the Galata Tower sign on the Tarlabaş – Taksim road and park your car at the car park there. The Galata Tower charges an admission fee.
3. Pierre Loti Hill
The best vantage point to view the Golden Horn is Pierre Loti Hill. The area is known as Pierre Loti Hill after the French novelist Julien Viaud (pen name Pierre Loti), as Istanbul was his second home. This hill was his favourite spot. After a delicious breakfast, you can explore Eyüp Sultan and the nearby area.
Getting there:The Pierre Loti Hill, which overlooks the Golden Horn, is located inside the boundaries of Eyüp. You can reach Pierre Loti by telpher once you arrive in Eyüp's centre. With Istanbul Kart, Telpher has a single common ticket price (a prepaid card that you can use in all public transport in Istanbul). If you're taking the Metrobus, get off at the Ayvansaray Stop. Minibuses are available for those travelling from Topkapi or Edirnekapi. Please keep in mind that Istanbul Kart is not usable on minibuses, which must be paid for with cash. From the Anatolian side, you can reach Eyüp via the Üsküdar – Eyüp ferry service.
4. Valide Han
Valide Han, one of Istanbul's largest inns, was built in the 17th century by Kösem Mahpeyker Valide Sultan, one of the Ottoman Empire's sultans. You can take a picture while leaping from the large dome on the roof, which is known for its spectacular views. Even now, it is a highly popular Viewpoint in Istanbul for both tourists and locals. Today, the Valide Han, where caravans used to stay, has over 300 stores. The entrance price to the dome is fairly modest.
Getting there: Valide Han is located in Mahmutpaşa between akmakçlar Hill and Fincanclar Hill. If you're coming from Eminönü, use Tahtakale Hill to get to the inn. It's easy to go there from Beyazt because there's no need to climb a hill. You must ascend the stairs to the roof door, where you will pay the entrance price.
5. Çamlica Hill
Çamlıca Hill is an excellent location for a panoramic view of the Bosphorus and the Marmara Sea. On the Çamlıca Hill, 229 meters above sea level, you may visit the Küçük Çamlıca Grove, Sofa, Cihannüma, and Topkapı Pavilion. You can experience the dainty Ottoman - Turkish cuisine here. The most popular of the two hills is Büyük Çamlıca Hill, which extends 262 meters above sea level. There are several restaurants, cafes, and services in the area. It is not only a gorgeous Istanbul vista, but it is also a great place to spend time with your loved ones. It is strongly suggested to visit Çamlıca Hill at sunset to witness the gorgeous view; as darkness falls, the city lights show.
Getting there: Çamlıca Hill is accessible by bus within the city limits of Üsküdar. You can arrive at Üsküdar via bus 11A, 11D, 11E, 11F, 11G, 11K, 11L, 11P, 11ST, 11V, 11Y, 11ÜS, 320, 9A, 9ÜD, or 9. You can take the 129T bus if you're coming from Taksim. If you want to come by automobile, travel to Altunizade and then follow the indications.
6. Maiden’s Tower
The Üsküdar coastline, which is the closest point to Kizkulesi, has a beautiful sunset view. We recommend that you enjoy the view of Kizkulesi from the couches on the Salacak coast while sipping tea and snacking. You are welcome to bring your own food and drink and enjoy the spectacular view of Istanbul. You'll be mesmerized by the setting sun directly behind the Maiden's Tower, as well as the shimmering city lights. This area is also perfect for observing the sunrise for those who get up early.
Getting thereYou can get to this region by taking any public transportation to the Anatolian side, Üsküdar, or the Salacak beach.
7. Ortakoy Mosque Pier
Ortaköy Mosque, with its Neo-Baroque architecture, was formerly known as the Great Mecidiye Mosque. However, it is better known as the Ortaköy Mosque. The Mosque was finished in 1854 and is positioned at the northern end of Ortaköy Pier Square (Ortaköy skele Meydan). It provides a one-of-a-kind nighttime perspective of the Anatolian side, the Bosphorus, and the illumination that highlights the architectural splendour of the Mosque even in 2020.
Getting there: To get to Ortaköy Square in Beşiktaş's Ortaköy district, take the Ortaköy bus. You can also take a cab from Beşiktaş Square for 20-25 TL and arrive at Ortaköy in 5-10 minutes.
8. Çamlıca Tower
When the transmitters in Istanbul Çamlıca disturbed the city’s skyline, it was decided to collect them in a single transmitter tower; the construction of the Çamlıca Tower was started for this purpose. Built on Küçük Çamlıca Hill, the tower is 365-meter and have a restaurant and terrace on the 39th and 40th floors. Moreover, there are terraces on the 33rd and 34th floors. It is where you can see the whole Istanbul skyline as it is one of the highest spots in Istanbul viewpoints.
Getting there: Arrive first to Küçük Çamlıca Hill to get to Çamlıca Tower on Üsküdar Küçük Çamlıca Hill.
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