Topkapi

While you are in Topkapi, be sure to spend a few hours exploring surrounding neighborhoods like Istanbul, Kabatas and Asmalimescit.

Hagia Sophia, certainly one of the country’s best known icons lies just less than 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) away.

Pay a visit to Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace in the city center of Istanbul.

Vacationers in Topkapi, looking for something different, will love the cultural attractions nearby. There are many excellent places to take the family for an afternoon including the Florence Nightingale Museum, Hagia Irene and the Istanbul Archaeology Museum. Popular art galleries, include the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum and Gallery Apel. Lovers of the arts can enjoy a night of great entertainment at venues such as the Nardis Jazz Club, the Ataturk Cultural Center and Garaj Istanbul.

If the weather is good, follow the locals and appreciate the nearby parks and reserves. If you’d like to spend some time in a little nature visit the Taksim Gezi Park.

Those with some time to spare in Istanbul should go and see Galata Tower, Taksim Square and the Little Hagia Sophia. Whatever your background or beliefs, serenity and calm awaits at sacred places like Suleymaniye Mosque, the Rustem Pasha Mosque and Sehzade Mosque. For those who enjoy history, the region’s bygone days can still be experienced at the Column of Constantine, Serpentine Column and the Column of Marcian.

If you love food and shopping, you’ll love the various stores that are part of Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar and French Street.

To make the most of Topkapi, consider booking a room close by in one of the area’s charming bed and breakfast or hotel options. For a good night’s sleep check out the Doubletree By Hilton Istanbul Old Town, the Niles Hotel Istanbul - Special Class, and the Adamar Hotel - Special Class.