Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For Free
The hippies and backpackers who flocked to İstanbul in the 1960s and
1970s would certainly blow their meagre budgets if they headed this
way today. Fortunately, the ever-increasing price of hotel rooms, trans-
port and meals is counterbalanced by an array of top-drawer sights that
can be visited at no cost.
Mosques
Topping the seven hills of the Old City and adorning many of its streets, İstanbul's Otto-
man mosques are jewels in the city's crown. Entry to these architectural wonders is open to
everyone regardless of their religion.
Galleries
The recent trend for İstanbul's banks and business dynasties to endow private art galleries
and cultural centres is the best thing to hit the city since the tulip bulb arrived. Most are on
or near İstiklal Caddesi in Beyoğlu and charge no entry fees.
Parks & Gardens
Picnicking and promenading are two favourite local pastimes, so it's fortunate that there are
so many wonderful parks and gardens open to the public. Particularly beautiful or historic
Woods on the Bosphorus.
Churches
There are a surprising number of still-functioning Christian churches in İstanbul, many of
which are of great historical significance. The best known of these is the Patriarchal
dox church.
