Our journey begins from the heart of Istanbul - the Sultanahmet district, where the city's most iconic monuments are located. Our first stop is the Hagia Sophia, which for centuries was a symbol of the power of the Byzantine and then Ottoman Empires. This remarkable building, which combines elements of a basilica and a mosque, impresses with its monumental architecture and rich mosaics. It now functions as a mosque, but you can still admire its magnificent interior. Note that there is an entrance fee (about 220 zloty in December 2024), but the view of the dome and Byzantine frescoes makes up for the price.

Just a few steps away is the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmet Mosque. This gem of Ottoman architecture with its distinctive six minarets is stunning not only from the outside, but especially inside, where the walls are covered with thousands of blue Iznik tiles. Unlike the Hagia Sophia, admission to the Blue Mosque is free, but be sure to dress appropriately and remove your shoes before entering.

The next point on our tour is Topkapi Palace, the former seat of the Ottoman Sultans. It is a vast complex of buildings where you can learn about the daily life of the rulers and their court. Of particular interest is the harem and the treasury, where priceless jewels and relics are kept. An entrance ticket costs 2,000 lira (as of September 2024), but it's worth reserving at least four hours for the tour to fully appreciate the wealth of exhibits and the beauty of the gardens.

After an intensive tour, take a break at Sultan Ahmed Square, which is located between the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. This is a great place to take souvenir photos and feel the atmosphere of the city. In the evening, the square is beautifully illuminated, which adds even more charm.

For those who want to dive deeper into Istanbul's history, we recommend a visit to the Basilica Cistern, also known as Yerebatan Sarayı. This underground structure dating back to the 6th century AD is a true marvel of ancient engineering. Walking on wooden platforms among 336 columns, partially submerged in water, is an unforgettable experience. It's worth buying a ticket online (29.50 euros in 2024) to avoid the queues.

After a busy tour of the monuments, it's time to discover the commercial heart of Istanbul. The Indoor Bazaar, also known as the Grand Bazaar, is a maze of streets and stores where you can find everything from traditional Turkish carpets to modern jewelry. It's a vibrant place, full of colors and smells, where you can feel the true atmosphere of the Orient. Keep in mind, however, that prices here are often inflated for tourists, so it's worth learning the art of haggling. It's great fun for the whole family and an opportunity to get unique souvenirs.

If you're looking for a more authentic shopping experience, visit the Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Bazaar. This is the place to buy the best spices, teas and local delicacies. The atmosphere here is less tourist-oriented and more authentic. The smell of freshly ground coffee and exotic spices will linger in your memory for a long time.

After the excitement of shopping, it's time to relax and enjoy the city skyline. Galata Tower, towering over the Beyoğlu district, offers unforgettable views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus Strait. It's worth going here at sunset, when the city shimmers with a golden glow. An entrance ticket costs about 40-45 euros (as of 2024), but the view from the observation deck makes up for the price. It's the perfect place for a romantic moment for couples or a fascinating geography lesson for children.

We can't forget to visit Dolmabahçe Palace, which represents a completely different era in Turkish history. This 19th-century palace, built in the European style, was the last residence of the Ottoman sultans before the fall of the empire. The richly decorated interiors, crystal chandeliers and impressive collections of European art are very impressive. Note that tours are guided only, and tickets are best purchased in advance online.

For those who need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, Gülhane Park is an ideal destination. Located right next to Topkapi Palace, this sprawling green space offers shade and tranquility. It's the perfect place for a picnic or just relaxing on a bench overlooking the Bosphorus. The park also has cafes and children's playgrounds, making it an ideal place for families.

When planning a trip to Istanbul, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind to help you fully enjoy your stay in this fascinating city.

First, transportation. Istanbul has an extensive public transportation network, including streetcars, subways and buses. It's worth getting an Istanbulkart, which works on all modes of transportation and is much cheaper than buying individual tickets. It can be recharged at vending machines located at most stops.

As for sightseeing, consider buying an Istanbul Museum Pass, which gives you access to many attractions and allows you to bypass queues. Keep in mind, however, that not all sights are covered by this ticket, so it's worth checking carefully what interests you.

When visiting mosques, be sure to dress appropriately. Women should keep their shoulders and legs covered, as well as their hair. Men should avoid shorts. Appropriate coverings can be rented at the entrance to most mosques.

When it comes to food, Istanbul is a foodie's paradise. Try local specialties such as kebab, pide (Turkish pizza) or baklava. On Istiklal Street in the Beyoğlu district, you will find many restaurants and bars where you can enjoy traditional dishes. However, remember to drink only bottled water.

For families with children, in addition to the attractions already mentioned, we recommend a visit to Miniaturk, a miniature park where you can see models of Turkey's most important monuments. This is great educational fun for the little ones.

It is also worth remembering that Istanbul is located in two parts of the world - European and Asian. Taking a ferry across the Bosphorus is not only a way to get around, but also an attraction in itself, offering beautiful views of the city.

All in all, Istanbul is a city that has a lot to offer for everyone - from history lovers to modern enthusiasts, from families with children to couples looking for a romantic moment. Whether you spend a weekend or an extended vacation here, you will definitely want to return to discover more secrets of this fascinating city at the crossroads of cultures and continents.