Istanbul Pictures

Named for its interior's blue tiles, the Blue Mosque is one of the city's most popular mosques to visit. LeoPatrizi Getty Images

Intricate tilework, grand archways and high-end chandeliers are just some of the details showcased inside the Topkapi Palace Museum. RuslanKaln Getty Images

Istanbul is bordered by three waterways, but its most famous is the Bosphorus, which connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn. MadrugadaVerde Getty Images

Ceramics, carpets and more are sold from the Grand Bazaar's 5,000-plus vendors. Ayhan Altun Getty Images

The architecture of the Hagia Sophia Museum is even more brilliant in person. Emad Aljumah Getty Images

When you're need of a morning or mid-afternoon pick-me-up, head to a local cafe to sip on a Turkish coffee. Spaces Images Getty Images

This medieval structure sits within the Bosphorus by Istanbul's Asian side. 101cats Getty Images

Art lovers cannot miss a visit to the Chora Museum, which features several Byzantine frescoes and mosaics. muharremz Getty Images

Taksim Square's most recognizable feature is its Taksim Republic Monument, a large monument that depicts scenes from the country's formation in 1923. yunlutas Getty Images

One of Istanbul's best snacks is simit, a circular piece of bread that looks like a bagel. Mohamed Elkhamisy / EyeEm Getty Images

Easy to spot in Beyoglu's skyline, the Galata Tower offers some of Istanbul's best panoramas from its observation deck. ugursezerphoto Getty Images

Though the Ottoman Empire has come and gone, the regal Dolmabahçe Palace stands as a reminder of the wealth and power it once had. EnginKorkmaz Getty Images

Climb up any Sultanahmet hilltop as the sun sets to enjoy picture-perfect views of the neighborhood's mosques and colorful sky. Muhur Getty Images

Although Ortaköy is best known for its trendy nightclubs, one of its most recognizable buildings is its mosque by the Bosphorus. J.M.F. Almeida Getty Images

For some authentic Turkish smells and flavors, head to the Spice Bazaar, a large market situated a few blocks north of the Grand Bazaar. Henglein and Steets Getty Images

Travelers say Süleymaniye Mosque's architecture is some of the most beautiful in the city. Emad Aljumah Getty Images

The Basilica Cistern's entrance is easy to miss, but once you find it, prepare to be wowed but its towering columns and archways. guvendemir Getty Images

A fun and convenient way to get around the city is to climb aboard its tram, which makes stops by top sights like Taksim Square, the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. MIXA Getty Images

Sarcophagi, Islamic coins and more are displayed inside the Istanbul Archaeological Museums. EvrenKalinbacak Getty Images

If you enjoy modern art, perusing the contemporary exhibits housed inside Istanbul Modern is a must. Joanne Wan Flickr