Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Best
Views
İstanbul has one of the world's greatest skylines, studded with historic minarets,
domes and towers. The hilly topography is fringed with waterways (the Bosphor-
us, Golden Horn and Sea of Marmara) and retains a surprisingly generous alloca-
tion of green spaces, including heavily treed parks and garden cemeteries. To-
gether, these attributes offer views that are guaranteed to delight.
Scenic Viewpoints
The city's many hills are invariably crowned with Ottoman mosques, most of which incor-
porate scenic terraces. And these weren't the only Ottoman buildings that were designed to
make the most of their location - imperial palaces and pleasure kiosks were almost always
sited to take advantage of spectacular water vistas.
Rooftop Bars & Cafes
One of the most delightful experiences on offer is to enjoy a drink or meal in a rooftop
cafe, bar or restaurant. Occupying the top floors of hotels and commercial buildings in
Sultanahmet, Beyoğlu and along the Bosphorus shore, these venues give the city's eating
and drinking scenes a unique allure. See
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f
or our list of best rooftop bars.
Best Views from Monuments
Topkapı Palace
Marble Terrace and Treasury Terrace. (
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)
Rumeli Hisarı
Extraordinary Bosphorus views from the ramparts. (
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)
Dolmabahçe Palace
The Bosphorus location ensures spectacular views. (
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)
Süleymaniye Mosque
Golden Horn vistas from the terrace behind the mosque. (
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