Vibrant Istanbul, so full of rich history, beautiful mosques, vibrant markets–and cats

Mosques

Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Süleymaniye Mosque stand out as the most historically significant and famous of Istanbul’s more than 3,000 mosques. Tourists can visit these architectural masterpieces, except during prayer times. 

You will leave your shoes outside and women are required to wear head coverings. The historic Sultanahmet district offers most of the major mosques.

Such quiet beauty in the mosques.

Vibrant markets

A visit to Istanbul must include time in the vibrant covered markets which have been operating for centuries. The Historic Grand Bazaar consists of over 61 streets winding past 4,000 shops, so plan to take your time as you stroll through.

At the aromatic Spice Bazaar, expect to sample luscious baklava, Turkish delights, teas and spices.

Walk through the markets and discover delightful surprises.

Baklavas, many various and interesting teas, and so much more.

And Cats! 

Sitting in a box by the trash pile-up on the curb-Istanbul.

Residents in Turkey love their feline friends. Here are a few images of cats I encountered along the way in Antalya, Turkey and Istanbul.

Kittens scampering the grounds of a museum, Antalya.

Istanbul has even earned the nickname, “Catstanbul” with somewhere between 125,000 to a million free-roaming and beloved, cared for cats. 

A kitty enjoying a recently vacated motorcycle seat-Istanbul.

Residents provide food, water and shelter in the city’s various neighborhoods.

Surveying his kingdom-Istanbul.

Istanbul’s cats are even protected by a 2021 Turkish law which classifies animals and ‘living beings’. Someone caught punishing stray animals could face time in prison.

Napping on a chair in a museum--Istanbul.

Sitting on top of a museum display-Istanbul.

And don’t miss the wonder of Istanbul by night.

All photos ©Diane Covington-Carter 2025