Start at Sultanahmet Square, the heart of historic Istanbul, flanked by the majestic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Take a moment to admire their soaring domes and minarets, embodying the city’s rich heritage. Visit the Hagia Sophia’s awe-inspiring interior, a former cathedral and mosque turned museum (allow 20 minutes, check entry requirements as tickets may be needed).
Stroll 5 minutes north to the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Cd. 1/3), a mesmerising underground reservoir with atmospheric columns. Spend 15 minutes exploring this Byzantine marvel (book tickets in advance to avoid queues). Then, head 10 minutes east to Gülhane Park, a serene green space beside Topkapı Palace. Pop into Hafız Mustafa 1864 (Hobyar, Muradiye Cd. 51), a historic patisserie nearby, for a quick, affordable Turkish coffee and baklava. It’s a no-reservations spot, arrive early to enjoy its Ottoman-era charm.
Walk 10 minutes north across the Golden Horn via the Galata Bridge, where fishermen line the rails and ferries glide below. Pause for a quick photo of the Bosphorus and the skyline. Continue to Karaköy, a trendy district, and visit Salt Galata (Bankalar Cd. 11), a contemporary art space in a former Ottoman bank. Spend 20 minutes browsing its free exhibitions, blending Istanbul’s past and present.
Head 10 minutes uphill to Istiklal Avenue, Istanbul’s bustling pedestrian street, lined with grand 19th-century buildings and modern shops. Stop at İnci Pastanesi (İstiklal Cd. 124), a legendary dessert shop since 1944, for a creamy profiterole or Turkish tea, no bookings needed, but be prompt to avoid crowds.
Continue 15 minutes north to Taksim Square, the vibrant heart of modern Istanbul, with its Republic Monument. From here, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Dolmabahçe Palace (Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd.
), a lavish 19th-century Ottoman residence on the Bosphorus. Spend 45 minutes exploring its opulent interiors, like the Crystal Staircase (book tickets in advance to skip queues).
For a final treat, grab a simit (sesame bread ring) or a sweet lokma (doughnut) from a nearby street vendor or head to Mado Café (İstiklal Cd. 117, a 10-minute walk back), known for its rich Maraş ice cream. This four-hour tour weaves through Istanbul’s historic and modern gems, blending culture, cuisine, and Bosphorus beauty. Wear comfortable shoes, check attraction ticket requirements, and embrace the city’s timeless, cross-continental spirit.
Ireland county by county
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
Largest town walking tour
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
Towns
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
Villages
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
