Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is a vast underground water storage chamber from the 6th century, supported by 336 marble columns in atmospheric low lighting. Entry costs a modest fee.
Street in Istanbul
Balat
Balat is a historic neighborhood on the Golden Horn, the former Jewish and Greek quarter of Istanbul, now a colorful district of painted houses, antique shops, cafes in converted warehouses, and the Chora Church nearby. Free to walk. The streets are steep and less touristy than Sultanahmet or Beyoglu. Budget travelers take the cheap bus or walk from the Fener Greek Patriarchate, explore the rainbow-colored houses on Merdivenli Yokus (the Instagrammed staircase street), and see the side of Istanbul where residents still outnumber visitors.
Nearby
More in Istanbul
Other places worth the walk, and what each one costs.
Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is free to enter and famous for over 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles covering the interior. Visitors enter outside of prayer times through a side entrance.
Bosphorus Public Ferry
The cheapest way to "cruise" the Bosphorus is the public commuter ferry that runs between the European and Asian sides. A crossing from Eminonu to Kadikoy or Uskudar costs the same as a bus ride (a few lira with an Istanbulkart).
Chora Church
The Chora Church (Kariye Mosque) is a Byzantine church in the city walls district, famous for its 14th-century mosaics and frescoes that are considered among the finest surviving examples of Byzantine art. Entry conditions vary (it has alternated between museum and mosque status).
Ciragan Palace
Ciragan Palace is a 19th-century Ottoman palace on the Bosphorus waterfront between Ortakoy and Besiktas, now operating as a luxury hotel. Free to view from the outside and the Bosphorus shoreline walk.
Dolmabahce Palace
Dolmabahce Palace is the 19th-century Ottoman palace on the Bosphorus waterfront, built to rival the palaces of Europe. Entry is paid.
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The whole of Istanbul