The cosmopolitan and colourful city of Istanbul has plenty to offer. With fantastic restaurants luring us in and entrance fees aplenty, the cost of a city break soon adds up. It’s always good to find some free attractions. Just to help us save a bit of cash here and there! Peruse these top picks.
The Blue Mosque
The visually and architecturally stunning Blue Mosque will capture your attention pretty swiftly upon your arrival in Istanbul. The six minarets are very unique and these, coupled with the stepping stone domes, make the mosque extra special. Inside, the ceiling is blanketed with 20,000 blue tiles hence the name of the mosque.
What you might not realise is that you can enter for free. This allows you to get an awe-inspiring perspective from both the inside and out! Non-worshippers are required to enter from the north side and shoes must be removed upon entrance. Remember to dress modestly and women will need to cover their heads. A wrap will be provided upon entrance if necessary.
Free Museums
There are several free museums to peruse in Istanbul, each offering their own interesting insights. One such museum is the Florence Nightingale Museum, dedicated to the lady who pioneered revolutionary nursing methods during the Crimean War in the 1850s. The museum can be found in the Selimiye Military Barracks in the municipality of Uskudar, but you can’t just turn up. As it is still a military installation, advance planning is required. You must fax your passport details at least 48 hours before your intended visit to obtain permission. It certainly proves to be a fascinating and unique attraction, however. For more details, see here.
Grand Bazaar
Bazaars are a staple of the Turkish culture. Istanbul is home to many, bustling with colour and activity they are a great place to really immerse yourself into this Turkish city. The most popular and best known is the Grand Bazaar. It makes for a great afternoon of window shopping. With a maze of jewellery, antique and souvenir shops, it’s a popular activity for many.
There are also several other street markets such as Fatih Market, which sells all manner of goods from food and spices to clothes. The free element of this attraction largely depends on your window shopping ability however.
Art Galleries
It is easy and enjoyable to spend an afternoon art gallery hopping in Istanbul. There are plenty to choose from and a good selection of which are completely free to enter. Pay a visit to Arter, located on the busiest shopping street in the city and housed within a restored mansion. It offers a fine selection of Turkish art with a strong international connection. Rodeo is another winning choice and is considered to house some of the most exciting art in Istanbul. Other galleries to consider include Galeri Mana, Galerist and Galeri Nev.
Gulhane Park
Formally known as the Topkapi Palace Gardens due it adjacent position, Gulhane Park is the perfect place to head for some harmony and a break away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Marked by large ancient gates at either end, this is the oldest and largest park in Istanbul with plenty of history buried beneath the greenery. Walking paths sprawl across the expanse of the path, making an afternoon stroll an easy and enjoyable feat. During April, the park is filled with flowers in preparation for the annual Tulip Festival.
Instead of sticking to the well-trodden tourist path, try some of these free, alternative attractions and broaden your visit to this diverse and engaging Turkish city.
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