Things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul

A sixth-century underground water cistern held up by 336 columns, including two reused Medusa heads at its far end.

Istanbul

One of the world's oldest covered markets, with around 4,000 shops along vaulted lanes selling carpets, gold, ceramics and textiles.

Istanbul

A sixth-century Byzantine cathedral that later became a mosque, a museum, and a mosque again, with a 31-metre dome and surviving gold mosaics.

Istanbul

The Ottoman court for four centuries, a series of courtyards above the Bosphorus holding the treasury, the harem quarters and relic collections.