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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

Now the largest city in Europe, bustling Istanbul straddles the banks of the Bosphorus and has long been billed as the place where East meets West. Istanbul is a city that wears its cultures and history well, blending them into an exciting city that has much to offer travelers from around the world. Founded during Neolithic times, Istanbul today is a modern city that remains true to its historic heritage through its Byzantine monuments, and ancient bazaars.

Aside from standout tourist attractions in Istanbul, such as Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, there are also busy bazaars, atmospheric old neighborhoods and thriving dining and nightlife scenes to delve into.

See also: Where to Stay in Istanbul

17. Spice Bazaar

A literal treat for the senses, Istanbul’s colorful and chaotic Spice Bazaar is a fun and fragrant place to explore. One of the most famous and popular covered shopping complexes in the city, its spice-laden stalls and shops lie in the Fatih district, within walking distance of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Built in the 1660s, the bazaar exhibits exquisite architecture with more than 85 shops now lining its elegant indoor streets. Besides buying all kinds of colorful spices, you can also shop for souvenirs and sweets here. There’s everything from dried fruit and nuts to hand-crafted jewellery and textiles on sale.

16. Kiz Kulesi

Occupying a small islet at the southern entrance to the Bosphorus Strait, the ancient watchtower of Kız Kulesi makes for a striking sight. Meaning the ‘Maiden’s Tower’ in Turkish, it has an observation deck and restaurant that offer fantastic views over Istanbul.

Remarkably enough, a tower has stood on the isle for almost 2,500 years with everyone from the Athenians and Romans to the Byzantines and Ottomans having erected one. Over the centuries and millennia, it has acted as a watchtower, lighthouse and quarantine station, and has even featured in numerous films such as Hitman and The World is Not Enough.

15. Gulhane Park

One of the largest, most beautiful parks in Istanbul, Gülhane lies right alongside the top tourist attraction, Topkapi Palace. Once only accessible to the royal court, its gorgeous grounds and gardens are a delight with the park boasting some stunning scenery and divine views over the Bosphorus.

Popular with locals and tourists alike, its leafy paths take you past pretty flower beds and fountains with lush green spaces and groves of trees dotted about. In addition, it contains the Istanbul Museum of the History of Science & Technology in Islam; and the Sublime Porte, a remarkable rococo gate that once led to the outermost courtyard of the palace.

14. Galata Bridge

Spanning the breadth of the Golden Horn, Galata Bridge is one of Istanbul’s most-loved landmarks, having featured in countless plays and poems, paintings and novels over the years. The fifth bridge to stand in the same spot, it connects the city center to the site of the imperial palace and other important institutions, such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Lined by fishermen, the bridge offers up delightful views over the surrounding waters with shops, restaurants and nargile cafes to be found beneath it.

With seagulls shrieking overhead, boats passing below and the spires of mosques to be spied atop of the surrounding hills, Galata Bridge really is an atmospheric place to visit and is very lively at almost all times of the day.

13. Hippodrome

Now a popular meeting place and promenade, the Hippodrome used to instead host dramatic chariot races, gladiator fights, and even political debates. While not much of it remains, the square is pleasant to stroll around with some amazing ancient monuments and statues still on show.

For centuries, the Hippodrome lay at the center of life in the city and was decadently decorated with statues of emperors and gods, animals, and heroes. It never really recovered though from the sacking of Constantinople in 1204 when much of its stone was carted off.

Highlights now include its almost 3,500 year-old Obelisk of Theodosius and gorgeous German Fountain with the Blue Mosque also lying alongside it.

12. Taksim Square

The heart of modern Istanbul, the large and lively Taksim Square lies right in the center of the city, surrounded by countless shops and restaurants, hotels, and historic sites. Not only a popular tourist attraction and major transportation hub, it hosts lots of public events with everything from parades to protests taking place.

Besides being home to one of the only remaining green spaces in the area, it also encompasses the impressive Republic Monument with the massive, majestic, and modern Taksim Mosque rising up behind it. In addition to its innumerable establishments, Taksim borders the multi-purpose Ataturk Cultural Center which hosts operas, plays and concerts while a charming heritage tram line also meanders its way through the square.

11. Fener & Balat

Full of beautiful old buildings, bustling businesses, magnificent churches and synagogues; the winding cobbled streets of Fener & Balat are a treat to explore. Lying alongside the Golden Horn on the European side of Istanbul, the two historic neighborhoods are increasingly popular with tourists due to their scenic streets and lovely ambience.

Formerly home to large Greek and Jewish populations, the districts now have a wealth of interesting historic sites, such as the striking Phanar Greek Orthodox College, Ahrida Synagogue, and Bulgarian Iron Church.

Aside from taking in all the attractive architecture, you can also stop by its excellent local restaurants and cafes with countless antiques shops and bazaars.

10. Galata Tower

At 67 meters (219 feet) high, the Galata Tower rules over the Istanbul skyline, offering great views of the old city and its surroundings. The medieval stone tower, known as the Tower of Christ, was the tallest building in Istanbul when it was built in 1348.It still stands tall over Istanbul today.

The tower has been modified over the centuries, at one time being used as an observation tower to spot fires. Today, its upper reaches include a café, restaurant and a night club, both reached by elevator in the nine-story building, where one can find the stunning vistas.

9. Istanbul Archaeological Museum

One of the most important museums in Turkey, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is actually three museums: the Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Orient Museum and the Tiled Kiosk Museum.

The three museums combined contain more than 1 million objects from civilizations around the world. Founded in 1891, it was the first Turkish museum, and was located on the Topkapi Palace grounds. The Tiled Kiosk dates back to 1472. The museums contain thousands of precious artifacts, including the sarcophagus of Alexander the Great.

8. Chora Church

The Chora Church may be a little bit off the beaten tourist path, but visitors say the beautiful Byzantine art is well worth the effort to get there. Magnificent mosaics and frescoes depict the life of Jesus and his mother, Mary. Known as the Church of the Holy Savior in Chora, it has been described as one of the most beautiful surviving works of Byzantine architecture.

Dating back to the days of Constantine, the Chora was a monastery in its early years; a few centuries later, it became a mosque, and in 1948, it was converted to a museum.

7. Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern has been providing Istanbul residents with water since the sixth century when it was ordered built by the Roman Emperor Justinian I. A visit leaves travelers raving about the technology the ancient Romans used to build this architectural wonder that was very advanced for its day.

The underground cistern, just a few steps away from the Blue Mosque, was built on the site of a basilica that was constructed in the third century. Known as the Sunken Palace, the cistern can hold up to 2.8 million cubic feet of water. The cistern is one of the locations used in From Russia with Love, a James Bond thriller filmed in 1963.

6. Dolmabahce Palace

Luxurious, plush and beautiful are just some of the adjectives used to describe the Dolmabahce Palace, which has been compared to the Palace of Versailles. Built in the 19th century using 14 tons of gold leaf, Turkey’s most glamorous palace blends traditional Ottoman architecture with the European styles of Neoclassical, Baroque and Rococo.

Home to six sultans from 1856 to 1924, it also is home to the world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, a gift from Queen Victoria. The Dolmabahce Palace’s setting is stunning: It was built along the Bosphorus coastline.

5. Suleymaniye Mosque

Visitors to the Suleymaniye Mosque say its beauty and peacefulness gives them an inspiring sense of spirituality. Located on the Third Hill of Istanbul, the mosque was ordered built in 1550 by the Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent. The mosque, indeed, is magnificent, blending the best of Islamic and Byzantine architecture.

The mosque was extensively damaged over the years, including during World War I when a fire broke out while the gardens were used as a weapons depot. It was restored in the mid-20th century. The mosque is marked by four minarets, indicating it was built by a sultan. When it was built, the dome was the highest in the Ottoman Empire.

4. Grand Bazaar

Travelers who love to shop shouldn’t miss out on a visit to the Grand Bazaar, with 5,000 shops making it one of the largest indoor marketplaces in the world. Receiving more than a quarter-million visitors a day, the bazaar features such items as jewelry, carpets that may or may not fly, spices, antiques and hand-painted ceramics.

The bazaar dates back to 1461 and today is home to two mosques, four fountains, two hammams or steam baths, and the Cevahir Bedesten, where the rarest and most valuable items have been found traditionally. Here is where shoppers will find old coins, jewelry with precious gems, inlaid weapons and antique furniture.

3. Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is one of the must-see attractions in Istanbul that combines history and stunning scenery in an experience that is not to be rushed.

For almost four centuries, the opulent Topkapi Palace served as the official residence of the sultans who ruled the Ottoman Empire. It is one of the world’s largest extant palace. Sultan Mehmed II started work on the palace shortly after the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 and lived here until his death in 1481.

In 1924, the palace became a museum that exhibits an extensive collection of art, porcelain, jewelry, manuscripts and other treasures of the Ottoman Empire. Important artifacts include the jewel-encrusted Topkapi dagger and the 86-carat Spoonmaker’s Diamond. The palace is also home to venerated Islamic relics, including the Prophet Mohammed’s sword and cloak. Most of the stunning complex is open to the public.

The Ottoman palace has four primary courtyards and several outbuildings. Known as the Janissaries Court, the first courtyard is where elite palace soldiers stood guard. The square contains a magnificent fountain and the Byzantine church of Hagia Irene, which Emperor Justinian constructed in the 548. The church survived because it was used as a storehouse and imperial armory by the Ottomans.

The second courtyard is a lush green space encompassed by the former imperial harem and the Tower of Justice as well as a hospital and kitchens, which prepared thousands of meals each day. Suleiman the Magnificent constructed the entry gate. The third courtyard contains the treasury and the library of Ahmed III. Entry to the third courtyard was strictly regulated and off-limits to outsiders.

The fourth courtyard served as the sultan’s inner sanctum. Known as the Tulip Garden, the buildings are adorned with mother-of-pearl, tortoise shell inlays and exquisite blue-and-white Iznik tiles. Other architectural highlights include marble staircases and a reflecting pool.

2. Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, built in the early 17th century, remains an active house of worship today. This means visitors need to time their visits carefully, as the mosque is closed to sightseers during the five daily prayer times for Muslims.

All visitors must remove their shoes and women must cover their hair. This is a small price to pay for seeing its priceless treasures that include 20,000 ceramic tiles in various tulip designs and 200 stained glass windows, all with intricate designs. The mosque, built by Sultan Ahmet, takes its name from the blue tiles on the dome and the upper levels of the interior.

1. Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is a masterwork of Roman engineering, with its massive dome (102 feet or 31 meters in diameter) that covers what was for over 1000 years the largest enclosed space in the world.

Hagia Sophia is the Greek term for Holy Wisdom and refers to Jesus Christ, the Holy Trinity’s second person. Constructed between 532 and 537, on the orders of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian, the structure was an Eastern Orthodox cathedral until 1453, except for about 60 years in the 1200s when it served as a Roman Catholic cathedral.

In 1453, Ottoman Turks captured Constantinople and converted the edifice into a mosque, removing or plastering over many Christian relics and replacing them with Islamic features. The building closed in 1931, and the Republic of Turkey re-opened it as a museum in 1935.

Visitors can go through the Imperial Gate to the central nave and look up to see the dome’s majestic interior with its mosaic-covered ceiling.

Marble on the walls in the main nave extends to the gallery’s upper reaches, and the inner narthex and side naves have walls entirely covered with marble. The costly marbles of many different colors, selected exclusively for the Hagia Sophia, came from various areas of the empire.

In the Hagia Sophia courtyard is a Fountain of Purification with a Greek inscription in palindrome form that translates, “Wash your sin not only your face.”

Built in 1739, the Hagia Sophia Library contains ancient Turkish tiles, and the engraved, wooden bookshelves hold historical objects as well as books.

Through the years, the church suffered damage from earthquakes, fires and riots, making many repairs and restorations necessary, but it remains a beautiful building that some people call the world’s eighth wonder.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

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Reader interactions.

February 25, 2024 at 1:16 am

I have visited Istanbul many times. Turkey is an absolutely unforgettable experience.

March 22, 2021 at 4:54 am

Amazing Country. I wish to come back again to Turkey. Beautiful country that connected Asia and Europe.

June 10, 2019 at 1:25 pm

Everything they said about Turkey is true because I am from İstanbul. Now I live in Brazil since August 1973 but almost every year I go back to visit my family in Istanbul, My promise is to anyone you will have the time of your life and you will want to go back. Just don’t pay what price tag or someone said but always negotiate!.

August 1, 2018 at 1:44 am

I was in Istanbul two weeks ago. Wow! I fell in love with Turkey. I will visit again next year. So fabulous. Istanbul has the most loving, peaceful and down to earth people. Wonderful!

May 13, 2016 at 8:59 am

istanbul is truly magnificent, a perfect confluence of civilizations loved the place. hope to visit again . the food, a.the skyline . just everything is fabulous..

January 23, 2016 at 2:32 pm

As a professional Tour Guide in Istanbul I can say that Istanbul is a city that wears its cultures and history well, blending them into an exciting city that has much to offer travelers from around the world. Today, it is a modern city that remains true to its historic heritage through its palaces, mosques, churches, synagogues, cisterns, towers and ancient bazaars.

October 10, 2014 at 10:34 am

I can’t wait to be in Turkey and I am counting the weeks.

September 2, 2014 at 3:12 am

I Love Turkey; I wish that i could go to Turkey 🙂

May 15, 2014 at 1:08 pm

Love to visit turkey

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Istanbul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Leonardo Patrizi | Getty Images

19 Best Things to Do in Istanbul, Turkey

The world's only city that sits on the two continents of Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus strait, Istanbul possesses so many layers that make it absolutely unique. A megacity that has seen the rise and fall of two empires, the former

• All Things To Do

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) free

Sultan Ahmed I was determined to build a mosque that rivaled the nearby Hagia Sophia , and most would agree that he accomplished this task or, at least, came close. Since the early 1600s, the Blue Mosque has been quite the sight to behold, with an array of domes, semidomes and minarets (or narrow towers). It's also one of the biggest tourist draws in Istanbul.

Visitors say this mosque offers stunning architecture inside and out. It can, however, get busy, so consider arriving early. And remember, the Blue Mosque is an active religious site, so dress conservatively. Women should wear headscarves, as is custom. If you forgot to bring one, you can borrow one from the mosque.

Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Cami) Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Cami) free

Tourists flock en masse to the Hagia Sophia for its stunning architecture, glorious interior views and historical significance. Built between 532 and 537, the building was a church for nearly a thousand years. It then served as a mosque from 1453 until 1935, before becoming a secular museum. In 2020, the building once again became a working mosque. 

Once the biggest cathedral in the world, the Hagia Sophia is considered the magnum opus of Byzantine architecture. Visitors say it is a must-see when in Istanbul and recommend taking a guided tour for more information about the history of the site. 

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici) Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici)

The Basilica Cistern is Istanbul's largest surviving Byzantine cistern and one of its most unique historic sites. Constructed in 532 for Justinian I, this sprawling underground water reservoir –which is roughly the size of two football fields – once supplied water to the Great Palace of Constantinople, a large palace that served as the main residence for local emperors for centuries. Though the palace no longer exists, the cistern was renovated in 1985 to welcome visitors. In 2022, it reopened to the public after a five-year restoration effort. Its most noteworthy feature is a pair of Medusa heads that sit upside down at the base of two columns.

According to past travelers, the Basilica Cistern is easy to miss but worth checking out, despite its lack of interior attractions. Many said the site is beautifully preserved, but queues to buy tickets and enter can get quite long, so several recommended visiting with a tour group. Multiple half- and full-day tours that include stops at the cistern are offered on Viator ; tour prices range from $39 to $686 per person.

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Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi) Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi) free

Located within walking distance of must-visit sights like the Blue Mosque , the Basilica Cistern  and Süleymaniye Mosque , the Grand Bazaar is one of the biggest and oldest covered shopping markets in the world. It regularly overwhelms visitors with its more than 60 streets of 3,000-plus shops, each accompanied by an overzealous vendor. Products range from hand-loomed carpets to antiques, traditional textiles to copper and silver artisan objects, artisan jewelry and ceramics to clothing and much more.

Despite the size and chaos of this bazaar, shoppers say you'll find yourself strangely at ease with the rhythm of the market, thanks in part to the friendliness of the vendors, who are far from pushy. Remember, though, that Westerners are often quoted higher rates for items here, so come prepared to bargain. Most merchants will drop their rates by as much as 50% when a customer refuses to pay full price. What's more, additional discounts are often given to those who pay with cash, although most vendors do accept credit cards.

Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarsisi) Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarsisi)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take a lunch break at Pandeli Restaurant  inside the bazaar, which has been around since the 1950s serving classic Turkish dishes in a refined ambiance. Make reservations in advance and don't miss the stairs that lead up to the restaurant on the left side of the bazaar's Eminönü entrance. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

Built in the 17th century from the revenue of the Ottoman administrative district in Egypt (and therefore also known as the Egyptian Bazaar) this historic bazaar is the second most famous covered market in Istanbul. A must-visit for gourmets who love to shop for traditional ingredients, the more than 80 shops inside the market have a wide and fragrant spectrum of spices, nuts, dried fruits, Turkish coffee and traditional sweets.

Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) free

Nestled within Istanbul's historic Fatih district by the Golden Horn, Istanbul University and the Grand Bazaar , Süleymaniye Mosque is considered one of the city's most impressive Ottoman mosques. Built between 1550 and 1557 after being commissioned by its namesake, Süleyman I, this grand structure features multiple gardens and a large dome, plus high-end finishes like mother-of-pearl window shutters, painted corbels, traditional ceramic tiles and stained-glass windows.

Recent travelers described their time at this mosque as "amazing" and "peaceful," adding that it is just as stunning as the Blue Mosque and cannot be missed. What's more, this attraction is not as central and popular as others like the Hagia Sophia , meaning you won't have to rub elbows with lots of tourists while visiting. But remember, like other religious sites in the area, Süleymaniye Mosque hosts six prayer services every day, so expect occasional closures and dress conservatively. If you forget to wear long pants or pack a scarf to cover your head, the mosque offers loaner coverings at its entrance.

Rüstem Pasha Mosque (Rüstem Pasa Camii) Rüstem Pasha Mosque (Rüstem Pasa Camii)

One of Sultanahmet's lesser-known mosques is also one of its most beautiful. Designed by the famous Ottoman imperial architect Mimar Sinan (who also designed the Süleymaniye Mosque ) and completed in 1563, the structure was dedicated to the Grand Vizier Rüstem Pasha. The mosque's most important trait are the large quantities of Iznik tiles that decorate its interior in a wide variety of floral and geometric patterns. It's a definite deviation from Mimar Sinan's usual style, which favored the structure rather than its internal decoration.

Previous travelers commented that this more hidden sight is a definite stop for anyone interested in Islamic art and Ottoman architecture. They add the design impresses deeply with its hand-painted tilework as well as its majestic dome. Travelers have also commented that the mosque is a welcome respite from Istanbul's busy streets.

Topkapi Palace Museum (Topkapi Sarayi Müzesi) Topkapi Palace Museum (Topkapi Sarayi Müzesi)

Topkapi Palace served as the home of the Ottoman Sultans from 1478 to 1856 and is one of Istanbul's most popular attractions. It officially became a museum in 1924, shortly after the end of the Ottoman era, and features brilliant architecture, manicured courtyards and extensive weaponry, porcelain, cutlery, art and fabric collections.

Previous visitors loved admiring the palace's architecture and perusing its exhibits, saying you'll need several hours to take in everything there is to see. Popular exhibits include the kitchens, the calligraphy area and the armaments room. Many also recommend strolling through the property's gardens and refueling at the on-site coffee shop, where picturesque views of the Golden Horn await you.

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Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri) Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri)

At the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, which opened near the Topkapi Palace Museum  in 1869, you'll find more than a million antiquities displayed throughout three buildings: the Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Orient Museum and the Tiled Kiosk Museum. Exhibitions offer a wealth of artifacts from the Assyrian, Hittite, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations.

Travelers have commented on the beauty of the museum structures themselves and appreciated the vast collection at this underrated museum. Others recommended seeing the Sarcophagus of Alexander, a highlight in the collection.

The Beyoglu Neighborhood The Beyoglu Neighborhood

The heart of Istanbul's local life, Beyoglu, once known as Pera, was the center of European aristocratic settlement during the Ottoman era. The neoclassical architecture of its structures all speak of this past. Starting with the new Ataturk Cultural Center  in the famous Taksim Square, the equally famous Istiklal Avenue stretches all the way to Tünel Square, where the historic Tünel funicular station is located as one of the world's oldest subterranean urban railways.

When walking down Istiklal, make sure to stop and explore the many historic shopping arcades, restaurants, art galleries and churches hidden in the side streets. Standouts include the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, the city's largest Catholic Church; the Istanbul Cinema Museum , exhibiting the history of Turkish cinema inside a stunning former mansion from the 19th century; and the art gallery Casa Botter inside a renovated and repurposed art nouveau apartment building from the 1900s.

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

Certainly one of Istanbul's most iconic structures, the Galata Tower was first built during the Byzantine era, rebuilt by the Genoese, who gave it the stone mesh exterior it still possesses today, and later used as a prison during the Ottoman period. Today, the tower welcomes visitors who can climb to the top to enjoy a gorgeous 360-degree view of Istanbul.

Travelers have remarked that the tower is located in the city's "coolest" neighborhood and noted that the view from the top is especially amazing at night. Others commented that the tower itself is beautiful, though they felt the steep entry fee wasn't worth the experience.

Dolmabahce Palace Dolmabahce Palace

Sitting along the Bosphorus near the Kabatas tram stop and the Besiktas  ferry port, Dolmabahçe Palace's jaw-dropping beauty and historical importance impresses visitors. Built in the 19th century, the palace was used by the final Ottoman sultans as their primary residence and administrative seat. The interior and exterior architecture showcase a mix of European and Ottoman designs that can only be found at this global crossroad. Make sure to also visit the National Painting Museum next door (included in the ticket), which showcases around 200 paintings from the palace's collection that spans Turkish and international artists from the 19th century.

Past travelers were wowed by the palace's extravagant interior, although some wished photography was permitted and felt tours were rushed and lacked information. Several visitors also reported long ticket lines, and the property's website  cautions that the ticket office closes early once all passes have been distributed for the day, so plan on arriving early.

The Besiktas Neighborhood The Besiktas Neighborhood

After exploring the Dolmabahçe Palace , a stroll in the Besiktas neighborhood at large is a great way to delve into local life, away from the tourist highlights. Walk up Süleyman Seba Avenue to reach Akaretler, the 19th-century row houses originally built for those who worked at Dolmabahçe Palace. They're now filled with modern shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Stroll down Çiragan Avenue to reach Yildiz Park, one of the city's largest public parks with two Ottoman-era pavilions that now serve as cafes and enjoy some time away from the crowds. Right across the park, gaze at one of Istanbul's most iconic hotels with its ornate gates, the Çiragan Palace Kempinski, inside a former Ottoman palace. If you still have the energy, continue on Çiragan Avenue to Ortaköy Square to enjoy a waterfront view of the famous Bosphorus Bridge with the Ortaköy Mosque built in the 1850s right before it.

The best way to reach Besiktas is via bus, however, the neighborhood also has its own ferry port with transfers available from Eminönü (Old City).

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The Nisantasi Neighborhood The Nisantasi Neighborhood

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make sure to visit Kalyon Kültür , an art and culture space inside a beautifully renovated Ottoman mansion built in 1889. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

It's in this neighborhood that you'll find the city's residents shopping for the latest collections from Turkish and international designers. Apart from Beymen , Turkey's most exclusive department store, you'll also find brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Chanel plus the atelier and showrooms of some of Istanbul's most important fashion designers. The neighborhood is, however, also home to brands such as Gap, Massimo Dutti, Zara and Marks & Spencer, pleasing shopping crowds of all budgets in one go.

Galataport Galataport

Much more than the world's first underground cruise ship terminal, Galataport is filled with restaurants, cafes, shops and a wide boardwalk that all face the Bosphorus. Apart from Istanbul Modern , Galataport's other cultural offering is the Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture , designed by the famed Turkish architect Emre Arolat's firm. It has a vast collection that presents Turkish art from the late 19th-century Ottoman period to the end of the 20th century. The port is also home to the luxurious Peninsula Hotel; three of its four buildings are renovated heritage structures overlooking the Old City.

Travelers have remarked that the port is modern and has lots of branded storefronts and restaurants and that the views are incredible. They add that the modern design of Galataport and the historic architecture of nearby structures gives visitors the best of both worlds.

Istanbul Modern Istanbul Modern

Inside a stunning waterfront structure by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop, Istanbul Modern is the city's most important hub for contemporary art with its permanent and temporary exhibitions. The collection focuses mainly on pioneering Turkish artists and also includes a photography collection. Make sure to visit the museum's rooftop that faces the Bosphorus and the Old City and features shallow pools that reflect the horizon.

Previous visitors have commended the large variety of artworks, including all types of art, media, sculpture and interactive exhibits. Other guests recommended the rooftop and its fantastic view of the historic city center.

The Kadiköy Neighborhood The Kadiköy Neighborhood

U.S. News Insider Tip: Heading to Kadiköy Market? Start your journey on Günesli Bahçe Street and then get lost among the offerings, especially the many little eateries selling street food. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

Istanbul's Asian side (or Anatolian side as the locals like to say) is often completely overlooked by tourists, but it's the perfect locale for those who want to have a genuine local experience. Kadiköy is very down-to-earth and still very Turkish, largely untouched by the cosmopolitan air that is prevalent on the European side. After arriving at the Kadiköy ferry station, the first stop should be the vast Kadiköy Market, a network of interconnected streets that are filled with vendors selling everything from fresh fish to produce, cheeses to pickled vegetables, coffee to nuts, offal to honey and so much more.

Beylerybeyi Palace Beylerybeyi Palace

Another hidden gem Istanbul's Anatolian (Asian) side, the breathtakingly ornate Beylerbeyi Palace was built between 1863 and 1865 under the order of Ottoman Sultan Abdülaziz. It served as a summer residence and state guesthouse. The waterfront palace was designed by Sarkis Balyan, who, along with other members of the Armenian Balyan family, designed such other icons as the Dolmabahçe  and Çiragan Palaces. A confluence of Western and Eastern architectural styles, the interior of the lavish palace is filled with Turkish Hereke carpets; French Baccarat crystal chandeliers; and Chinese, Japanese, French and German ceramics, to name a few.

Previous travelers were astounded by the beauty and design of the palace, which exhibited wonderful craftsmanship. The palace's coffee shop was also recommended due to the stunning Bosphorus view.

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Büyükada Büyükada

U.S. News Insider Tip: This island is very popular on the weekends, so if you'd rather avoid the crowds, visit on a weekday. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

The largest of Istanbul's Princes' Islands is certainly its most popular and is the best way to really take a break from the city's endearingly chaotic energy. Büyükada (which literally translates to 'large island') was a popular getaway for Istanbul's prosperous Greeks, Jews and Armenians who had lavish summer mansions built to accommodate their vacationing needs. Nowadays, these Ottoman-era mansions are some of the most important attractions on the island, and locals and visitors alike arrive in droves to stroll along the streets to gaze up at the historic architecture. Some of the most notable houses are located on Çankaya Avenue.

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14 must-do things on your trip to Istanbul

Nov 1, 2021 • 8 min read

Get ready to add even more to your Istanbul itinerary: here are the top things to do in the city © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

We’ve all heard the descriptions of Istanbul being a bridge between Europe and Asia, a place where East meets West and where cultures have coexisted for centuries. But not everyone is aware of its endlessly fascinating contradictions.

Here are the top things to do in Istanbul to experience the city’s different stories and faces.

Marvel at the Aya Sofya

History resonates when you visit the majestic Byzantine basilica of Aya Sofya . Built by order of the Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, its soaring dome, huge nave and glittering gold mosaics contribute to its reputation as one of the world's most beautiful buildings, and its fascinating history as church, mosque and museum make it the city's most revealing time capsule. Looted by marauding Crusaders in the 13th century, stormed by Ottoman invaders during the Conquest in 1453 and visited by millions of tourists after being converted into a museum in 1935, it is one of Turkey's greatest treasures.

Since its reconsecration as a mosque in summer 2020 , the Aya Sofya is closed to non-worshippers during the five daily prayer times, women must cover their heads and all visitors must take off their shoes to enter the inner narthex. Most of the building’s ancient marble floor has been covered by carpets, some of its mosaics are shielded by retractable screens and the upper gallery is inaccessible, but its historic grandeur remains breathtaking.

Experience the extravagance of Topkapı Palace

The secrets of the seraglio will be revealed during your visit to the opulent Ottoman Topkapı Palace complex occupying the promontory of Istanbul's Old City. A series of mad, sad and downright bad sultans lived here with their concubines and courtiers between 1465 and 1830, and extravagant relics of their centuries of folly, intrigue, excess, patronage, diplomacy and war are everywhere you look. Highlights include the huge Harem, impressive Imperial Council Chamber, object-laden Imperial Treasury and picturesque Marble Terrace.

Uncover the secrets of Topkapı Palace

Lose yourself in Istanbul's Bazaar District

The chaotic and colorful Grand Bazaar is the best-known shopping destination on Istanbul's historic peninsula, but it certainly isn't the only one. After exploring its labyrinthine lanes and hidden caravanserais, follow the steady stream of local shoppers heading downhill into the busy shopping precinct of Tahtakale, which has at its hub the seductively scented Spice Bazaar . From there, head back up toward the Blue Mosque and its attached arasta (an arcade-style Ottoman bazaar that typically featured practitioners of a single trade), where you may well find a lasting memento of your trip.

Ride Istanbul’s ferries

Climbing aboard one of the city's famous flotilla of ferries is the quintessential Istanbul experience. The trip between Asia and Europe on a commuter ferry is hard to beat, but the Bosphorus tourist ferries that travel the great strait from Eminönü toward the mouth of the Black Sea are even better, offering passengers views of palaces, parks and ornate timber mansions on both the Asian and European shores. It doesn't matter whether you opt for a long or short cruise: either is sure to be memorable.

Istanbul ferries will now run during the night at weekends

Revel in Istanbul's nightlife

Though Istanbul’s nightlife scene has suffered some setbacks, you can’t keep a good party town down. For a traditional night out, head to one of the Beyoğlu district’s meyhanes, tavern-like restaurants serving meze and fish where sing-alongs of classic songs flow with each new round of rakı, an anise-flavored liquor. Lively crowds of young beer-drinkers fill the pubs of the Beşiktaş Çarşı and central Kadıköy, while a swankier set sips cocktails near the Bosphorus in the bars and cafes of Bebek and Arnavutköy. For the full Istanbul experience, top off the evening by joining your fellow revelers in lining up for some late-night street food.

Get acquainted with Turkish contemporary art

Anchored by high-profile cultural institutions like Istanbul Modern , Pera Museum , SALT Beyoğlu and Yapı Kredi Kültür Sanat , the Beyoğlu district has long been a hub for art-lovers, with galleries and museums scattered on and around İstiklal Caddesi , and increasingly in the adjacent Karaköy, Tophane and Dolapdere neighborhoods as well. Well-established commercial galleries in stately apartment buildings also cluster among the chic boutiques of the Nişantaşı neighborhood, while hip Kadıköy has an up-and-coming independent art scene of its own.

Surrender to the steam in a bath house

In life, there aren't too many opportunities to wander seminaked through a 16th-century Ottoman monument. But Istanbul's world-famous hamams offer just that: the chance to immerse yourself in history, architecture, warm water and soap suds all at the same time. A hamam treatment makes for a relaxing finale to a day spent pounding the city's pavements and gives a fascinating insight into the life and customs of Ottoman society. You can surrender to the steam at baths on both sides of the Galata Bridge: the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı in Tophane and the Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı in Sultanahmet are particularly stunning and luxurious.

Istanbul's bathhouses: a step-by-step guide

Hang out with the cool kids in Kadıköy

Riding a ferry across the Bosphorus is one of Istanbul’s great pleasures and the Asian-side neighborhood of Kadıköy is becoming a destination in itself, with hip cafes, bars, restaurants and boutiques frequented by a lively young crowd. Peruse the colorful produce market , hunt for street-art murals in the backstreets, visit the museum-home of Turkish rock giant Barış Manço or stroll the waterfront with an ice cream in hand. The sunset views from the shoreline are among the most spectacular in the city.

Sample the flavors of Istanbul

More than anything else, Istanbullus love to eat, and food is much more than mere fuel. Instead, it’s a celebration of community. Meals unfurl with great ceremony – they are joyful, boisterous and almost inevitably communal. The national cuisine has been refined over centuries and is treated more reverently than any museum collection in the country. That’s not to say it’s fussy, because what differentiates Turkish food from other national noshes is its rustic and honest base. The small meze dishes you’ll eat will be simple, the kebaps austere, the salads unstructured and the seafood unsauced. Flavors will explode in your mouth because ingredients are used in season.

Top 5 Istanbul cooking courses and food tours

Admire the architecture of Süleymaniye Mosque

Commissioned by the Ottoman sultan Süleyman I, known as “the Magnificent,” this 16th-century mosque has a fittingly grand perch atop one of the old city’s seven hills. The view from here is one of the finest in Istanbul, looking out over domes and rooftops to the confluence of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn waterways and beyond. With its elegant symmetry and soaring interior, the mosque itself is considered among the masterpieces of the great architect Mimar Sinan. The complex around it is inviting and serene, with tall trees, a grassy lawn and a rose-studded cemetery.

Go underground at the Basilica Cistern

When the Byzantine emperors decided to build something, they certainly didn't cut corners. The extraordinary subterranean Basilica Cistern , located opposite Aya Sofya, features a wildly atmospheric forest of columns (336 to be exact), vaulted brick ceilings, mysterious carved Medusa-head capitals and ghostly patrols of carp. A testament to the ambitious town planning and engineering expertise of the Byzantines, the cistern has played a starring role in innumerable motion pictures (remember From Russia with Love ?) and is now one of the city's best-loved tourist attractions.

Go tile-mad at the Blue Mosque

Officially named the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, after the early 17th-century Ottoman ruler Ahmed I, the Blue Mosque gets its better-known moniker from the color of the tens of thousands of İznik tiles that adorn its interior. With its enormous courtyard, grand prayer hall and six minarets (an unprecedented number for a mosque when it was constructed) this is a building made to impress – and to rival the Aya Sofya, which sits directly opposite across a landscaped square.

Ogle the opulence of Dolmabahçe Palace

Weighing in at nearly 10,000 pounds, the crystal chandelier hanging over the Ceremonial Hall of Dolmabahçe Palace exemplifies the opulence of this royal residence commissioned in the mid-19th century by Sultan Abdül Mecit I. It’s a glorious mishmash of styles and materials, with ceilings gilded with thousands of pounds of gold, marble floors, crystal bannisters and bearskin rugs. The Bosphorus views are just as dazzling as the decor.

Let your feet be your guide

Istanbul’s marvelous sights could keep a visitor busy for months, but it’s worth taking some time to explore its myriad neighborhoods as well. Though the city is sprawling, its central districts are walkable and reward wandering, with lively street life and distinct identities. Follow the film crews and Instagram influencers through shabby-chic Fener and Balat’s historical lanes ; sip black tea with a Golden Horn view at the Pierre Loti Café , perched above the leafy cemeteries and holy tomb complexes or Eyüp; or watch fishermen cast their lines from the Bosphorus village of Arnavutköy.

You might also like: A hotel in Istanbul has the world's first baklava butler The best shops you can only find in Istanbul Local's guide to Istanbul

This article was first published February 2011 and updated November 2021

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The 34 best things to do in Istanbul

We've got you covered on the very best things to see and do in Istanbul right now

Navigating a city as dense with interest as Istanbul may seem daunting, but don’t fret, we’ve got you sorted. Let this guide be your companion on your quest to exploring this magnificent city. We’ve rounded up a list of the most unmissable things to see and do in Istanbul, covering everything from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.

Plan a rejuvenating visit to the hamam, go treasure hunting around antique markets, feast on incredible food and much much more during your sojourn in this vibrant metropolis. Our carefully curated list is every bit as varied and exciting as the city itself, and trust us when we say there is something here for everyone. But don’t just take our word for it, scroll away and start planning your next adventure.

RECOMMENDED: The best attractions in Istanbul                                                               RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Istanbul                                                                       RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in Istanbul

Best things to do in Istanbul

1.  Walk inside a wooded wonderland at Belgrad Forest

• Attractions

What is it?  Perhaps the most cherished green space in Istanbul, the Belgrad Forest is a wooded wonderland spread across more than 1300 acres.

Why go?  A popular weekend destination, the forest has designated picnic areas and a 6.5 km track used by joggers and walkers. Once you’ve taken a few steps into the forest, you’ll quickly feel the revitalizing touch of the fresh, clean air. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Atatürk Arboretum, a lesser-known yet equally divine green space that features a diverse array of flora from all over the world as well as numerous ponds.

2.  Put your bargaining hat on at the Grand Bazaar

What is it?  Among the world's oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar features thousands of shops spread across dozens of streets.

Why go?  It's a worthy destination even for those not planning on buying anything, as the historic atmosphere of the complex is its true appeal.  If you're planning on making purchases, be sure to bargain and show no mercy.

3.  Admire the blooming tulips at Gülhane Park

• Parks and gardens

What is it?  Located next to the Topkapı Palace on the tip of Istanbul's historic peninsula, Gülhane Park is one of the city's biggest and most beautiful parks.

Why go?  A popular destination on the weekends among local families, the park is a sanctuary in the crowded, dense old city.

4.  Take a tour of Büyükada

• Sightseeing

What is it? Büyükada is the biggest of nine islands that make up the Princes’ Islands just off the coast of Istanbul. Hop on a ferry from Kabataş or Bostancı for a short trip to this island sanctuary, which boasts a rich history that can be traced back to the Byzantine Empire.

Why go? Büyükada promises a retreat from the bustling streets of Istanbul. Rent a bicycle to explore this charming island at your own leisurely pace. Ride through its historic streets, adorned with lavish Ottoman-era mansions, and meander along scenic pathways to stumble upon the perfect spot to gaze out into the Marmara Sea. A popular activity amongst visitors (especially around golden hour) is to hike up to the highest point of the Island where you can stop by the famed Aya Yorgi Church before unwinding at the Yücetepe Kır Gazinosu for a proper Turkish meal accompanied by breathtaking views.

5.  Get nostalgic at the Museum of Innocence

What is it?  Inspired by renowned novelist Orhan Pamuk's novel of the same name, the Museum of Innocence is nestled in the picturesque quarter of Çukurcuma, where much of the book transpires.

Why go?  The Museum of Innocence is a must-see for anyone interested in the cultural and material history of Istanbul. The countless household objects and photographs displayed in the museum are connected to the bittersweet love story that unfolds in the novel. If you own the book, note that the ticket printed in the closing pages of the novel can be stamped at the ticket booth in exchange for an entrance to the museum.

6.  Stroll through Çiçek Pasajı

• Historic buildings and sites
• İstiklal Caddesi

What is it?  Built in 1876, Çiçek Pasajı (Flower Passage) is easily one of Istanbul's most beautiful arcades.

Why go?  Its gorgeous interior is worth a stroll through, even while the waiters attempt to shuffle you into the beer halls and meyhanes lined along the sides. Although there are finer eateries around Beyoğlu , the charming ambience of Çiçek Pasajı is reason enough to find a spot where you can enjoy a beer with a side of chips while soaking in the nostalgia.

7.  Brush up on your ancient history at the Archaeology Museum

What is it?  Established in the late 19th century as Turkey's first museum, the Istanbul Archaeology Museum is divided into three sections: Archaeology, Ancient Orient and Islamic Art.

Why go?  A sojourn through Istanbul's old city is not complete without a visit here, and to say its treasure trove of relics is well-stocked would be an understatement: the museum holds a large collection of Ancient Greek, Roman and Turkish artefacts, as well as objects discovered in the Balkans, Africa, Mesopotamia and the Middle East.

8.  Shop for spices and souvenirs at the Spice Bazaar

• Specialist food and drink

What is it?  Smaller than the nearby Grand Bazaar, the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, was built in the 16th century and features rows of stalls selling spices, sweets, tea varieties, dried fruits and other goods.

Why go?  A great place to shop for spices,  Turkish delights and other souvenirs, th e Spice Bazzar is also a visual experience as the  spice vendors prominently display their colorful wares in large, pyramid-like mounds. Herbal remedies abound in the bazaar where you'll find spices or edible seeds allegedly good for things like memory, immunity, digestion and general well-being. We'll let you be the judge of what's known as Turkish Viagra, which is in fact dried quince stuffed with walnuts.

9.  Get a full body scrub at Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam

• Health and beauty
• price 3 of 4

What is it?  The work of the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, the Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam was built between 1578-1583 to serve the  levends  (marine forces in the Ottoman navy) and was reopened to the public in 2012 after a major restoration.

Why go?  The Hamam ritual is an unmissable experience for anyone visiting Istanbul, and there's no better place to do it than inside this architectural masterpiece dating back half a millennium. Note that the Hamam is open to women in the morning and men in the afternoon.

10.  Marvel at contemporary art in Istanbul Modern

• Art and design

What is it? Founded in 2004, Istanbul Modern is considered to be Türkiye’s first museum of modern and contemporary art. After a five year hiatus, the new and improved Istanbul Modern re-opened its doors to the public this past year, unveiling an architectural makeover for the ages.

Why go? As you wander through the exhibition galleries, immerse yourself in a rich collection of works that span decades, celebrating the brilliance of pioneering artists as well as emerging talents. Situated at the Bosphorus waterfront, don’t forget to take the elevator up to the viewing terrace and feast your eyes on a postcard-worthy seascape.

11.  Witness a breathtaking performance at the AKM

• Performing arts space

What is it? Founded in 1969, the Atatürk Cultural Centre (AKM) in Taksim Square is perhaps the most prominent performing arts venue in the city. After years of extensive renovations, the building reopened its doors to the public back in 2021. The new and improved AKM boasts a range of splendid amenities, including three magnificent halls for the staging of opera, ballet, theatre, concerts and other events.

Why go? The main feature and crown jewel of the AKM is the stunning, 2040 seater Türk Telekom Opera hall that lies beneath a globe-shaped structure with a dazzling exterior coated in 15,000 glossy red ceramic tiles. Grab your tickets for a glitzy night out at the AKM to watch some of the finest productions in town. For a pre-theatre meal, BİZ Istanbul Restaurant, also at the AKM, comes highly recommended.

12.  Treat yourself to a shopping spree in Nişantaşı

What is it? Distinguished as one of Istanbul’s more affluent neighbourhoods, Nişantaşı is renowned for its high-end shopping spots, fine dining destinations and contemporary art scene.

Why go? Indulge in some retail therapy in one of the cities chicest districts. Nişantaşı offers a treasure trove of design, both local and international. From neighbourhood gems like Fey or Begüm Khan, to fashion powerhouses Beymen and Vakko, its streets are lined with an exquisite array of stylish boutiques and designer stores waiting to be explored.

13.  Dig for hidden treasures at the Feriköy Flea Market

• Markets and fairs

What is it?  Taking place inside the vast covered marketplace in Bomonti every weekend, the Feriköy Flea Market and Organic Bazaar is a great place to shop for fresh produce and hunt for antiques.

Why go?  The Saturday food market features a wide array of 100% organic produce, including vegetables, fruit, honey, cheese and jam sourced from different corners of Turkey. In the early hours of Sunday, antique dealers replace the greengrocers and set up their stalls selling all manner of antiques, knick-knacks, vinyl records, old books, magazines, original film posters and treasures waiting to be found.

14.  Order off of a meze tray at Asmalı Cavit

• Restaurants
• Asmalımescit

What is it? Located on Asmalı Mescit street in the heart of Beyoğlu, Asmalı Cavit is an intimate meyhane (Turkish tavern) and a cherished institution among its many loyal patrons.

Why go? If you feel like blending in with the locals, secure a reservation at Asmalı Cavit. Chances are, your neighbouring table will be a regular and on a first-name basis with their waiter, a testament to the restaurant’s unwavering quality of service and food. Surf and turf is de rigueur here, so don’t be afraid to pair seafood classics like the octopus salad or a sizzling hot plate of buttery karides güveç (shrimp casserole) with meaty delights like muska böreği (meat stuffed filo pastry triangles) or yaprak ciğer (thin slices of liver fried with onions).

15.  Vintage shopping on Serdar-ı Ekrem street

• Vintage shops

What is it?   A quaint, cobblestone paved street lined with cafes, artisanal shops and trendy fashion boutiques tucked away in the heart of Galata.

Why go?   If you’re on the hunt for one-of-a-kind fashion pieces to elevate your wardrobe, Serdar-ı Ekrem street is the place to go. For some of the best vintage finds in town, visit Baston Vintage, Public Vintage and Underground Vintage to dig around their extensive collection of timeless items. As you wind your way through to the end of this iconic Istanbul street, prepare to be greeted by a dramatic close-up view of the magnificent Galata tower.

16.  Pause for a moment of reflection at St. Antoine Church

• Religious buildings and sites

What is it?  The largest and most prominent Catholic church in Istanbul, the majestic St. Antoine on Istiklal Caddesi was built between 1906 and 1912 in the Venetian Neo-Gothic style.

Why go?  St Antoine offers masses throughout the week in English, Turkish, Polish and Italian and is a place to pop in for a moment of silent reflection after spending the morning traversing the crowded Beyoğlu district.

17.  Listen to live jazz at Bova

What is it?  Since its opening in 2017, Bova jazz club and bar has become a favorite haunt among lovers of the genre.

Why go?  Make your way to Beyoğlu’s Mis street for an intimate evening at Bova. The venue hosts a nightly lineup of exceptional artists from around the country, rising stars and seasoned performers alike. Expect to hear some crazy solos that are guaranteed to leave you in a perpetual state of stank face.

18.  Dance the night away at Minimüzikhol

• House, disco and techno

What is it?  Founded in 2009 by a collective of local DJ’s, Minimüzikhol lies hidden inside the first floor of an unassuming apartment building in the trendy neighbourhood of Cihangir, which transforms into a sonic refuge after dark.

Why go?  If you’re itching for a party with the weekend drawing near, look no further — Mini hosts a stellar lineup of local and international DJs every Thursday through Saturday. Let your hair down and start throwing shapes to an eclectic range of tunes including disco, funk, techno and more.

19.  Grab a hot cup of joe at Petra Topağacı

• Coffeeshops

What is it? Petra is one of the leading coffee roasters of Istanbul with a standout yet hidden gem of a branch on a quiet street in the Topağacı neighbourhood of Nişantaşı.

Why go? Elevate your daily coffee ritual by indulging in a diverse menu featuring single-origin coffees, meticulously crafted espresso blends, and a variety of brewing methods. The distinctive 1930’s inspired interior, unique to this particular Petra branch, creates a warm and cosy ambience perfect for a productive work session or a leisurely read.

20.  Travel back in time on the Tünel

• Train stations

What is it?  Dating back to 1875, Tünel proudly holds the title of being the second oldest underground train in existence, trailing only behind the London Tube. Connecting Karaköy and Beyoğlu, the funicular opened as a means of allowing the traders and merchants in the area a faster way of commuting up and down the steep hill.

Why go?  Tünel is not merely a mode of transportation but a fully operational historic artefact. If you don’t fancy the hike, use Tünel for a 90-second commute to teleport you from one bustling district to another.

21.  Scarf down a balık ekmek on the go at Eminönü

• Street food

What is it?   Balık ekmek  (fish sandwich) is one of Istanbul's most iconic street foods and a great meal for any time of day – granted, not ideal for breakfast.

Why go?  Though the fish no longer comes from the Bosphorus (it has been imported from Norway for years), enjoying a balık ekmek cooked on a rocking boat on the Eminönü shore remains an Istanbul institution and a beloved weekend activity of families coming from all over the city. Although you might be tempted to sit down at one of the restaurants below the Galata Bridge to feast on these tasty sandwiches, nothing beats tucking into a balık ekmek on the go as you soak up views of the Bosphorus.

22.  Eat out at the classic Karaköy Lokantası

What is it?  Karaköy Lokantası is one of Istanbul's most iconic restaurants and a popular lunch spot located in the eponymous historic harborside neighbourhood.

Why go?  The classic eatery is perhaps best known for its heavenly hünkar beğendi, a remnant of Ottoman palace cuisine made with slow-cooked beef on a creamy bed of mashed eggplant. At dinnertime, Karaköy Lokantası becomes one of the best meyhanes in town with its outstanding meze.

23.  Catch a show at Frankhan

• Funk, soul and disco

What is it? Located by the Karaköy harbor, Frankhan is a music venue with a state-of-the art sound system and modern interiors, with an impressive capacity cap of 1000 guests. The venue made a resounding entrance onto the Istanbul music scene this past year, hosting artists like Kamaal Williams and Sudan Archives within the first few months of its inception. 

Why go? From DJ sets to live acts, Frankhan caters to a range of musical cravings as the versatile venue transforms between throbbing raves to intimate shows. Be sure to keep an eye on their calendar for exciting new gigs.

24.  Have a night out at Bomontiada

• Things to do

What is it?  One of the buzziest spots on the European side of town, the ambitious Bomontiada complex is home to the iconic music venue Babylon, multi-disciplinary art space Alt, Leica Store and Gallery, the Ara Güler Museum and five different restaurants.

Why go?  Bomontiada's opening inside the old and long-abandoned Bomonti beer factory has singlehandedly transformed the sleepy neighbourhoods of Bomonti and Kurtuluş, prompting a flurry of creative activity and new openings in the area. Free outdoor concerts and film screenings take place in Bomontiada's breezy courtyard during the warmer months.

25.  Gorge yourself on a full Turkish breakfast spread at Emirgan Sütiş

What is it?  The main branch of the classic pudding shop Sütiş, that sits at the edge of the Bosphorus, is among the most coveted weekend breakfast spots in Istanbul.

Why go?  Start your morning right with a breakfast extravaganza at Sütiş. Their menu includes some fantastic egg dishes and freshly baked pastries, complemented by various smaller plates that form the cornerstones of an authentic Turkish breakfast. For the complete experience, adorn your table with an assortment of side orders to share, such as pan-fried sujuk, clotted cream with honey, and simit (sesame bagel).

26.  Snack on classic candy at Altan Şekerleme

• Chocolate and sweets

What is it?  Opened in 1865, this classic candy shop is a blast from the past and a relic in a city that is changing by the minute.

Why go?  This shop has been in the same family's hands since the very beginning and features a variety of sweets that are hard to come by these days in Istanbul. While there are lots of lousy variations of Turkish delight to be found in Istanbul, Altan Şekerleme makes the real deal. Be sure to try other authentic treats like the   akide şekeri , a homemade rock candy.

27.  Be entranced by whirling dervishes at the Galata Mevlevi Lodge

What is it?  The oldest  tekke  in Istanbul to house members of the Mevlevi Order, the adherents of Sufism, this 15th-century building was converted into a museum in 1975 and remains an important cornerstone of Sufi culture. 

Why go?  A treasure trove of artefacts is on display at the museum, including musical instruments, calligraphy, Mevlevi clothing and accessories, though its prime draw is the weekly  sema  (whirling dervish) ceremony that entrances large numbers of visitors every Sunday at 17:00.  The Lodge also occasionally hosts Ottoman classical music concerts.

28.  Wine and dine at Mikla

• Haute cuisine

What is it?  Helmed by acclaimed Swedish-Turkish chef Mehmet Gürs, Mikla is not only one of the best restaurants in Turkey, it is among the best in the world. 

Why go?  Located atop the Marmara Pera Hotel, Mikla features sweeping views of Beyoğlu, the Golden Horn, and the Bosphorus and a menu with some of the most creative fine-dining cuisine in Istanbul made with local ingredients and identifiably influenced by both Turkish and Scandinavian techniques.

29.  Tuck into a profiterole at İnci Pastanesi

• Pâtisseries

What is it?  The iconic İnci Pastanesi opened in 1944 on İstiklal Caddesi, quickly becoming famous for its profiteroles and classic interior.

Why go?  In 2012, the gentrification that has driven almost all of the original small business owners on İstiklal also forced İnci to move to a nearby backstreet, abandoning its home for nearly seven decades. Though the new location isn't quite the same, the taste of its heavenly profiteroles hasn't changed.  As İnci remains open until midnight, it is common practice around Beyoğlu to ditch dessert after dinner and head straight here for the real deal.

30.  Go to a concert at Salon IKSV

• Music venues

What is it?  Maintained by the Istanbul Arts and Culture Foundation (İKSV), Salon is a music venue housed in the beautiful Nejat Eczacıbaşı building in the Şişhane quarter of Beyoğlu.

Why go?  Consistently featuring some of the best international bookings in the city, Salon's calendar is jam-packed with the hottest names in jazz, rock, alternative, classical, experimental and world music. 

31.  Stuff your face with kumpir in Ortaköy

What is it?  Turkey's answer to the jacket potato,  kumpir  is a quintessential Istanbul street eat and a great way to fill up on the cheap.

Why go?   There is no better place to wolf down a baked potato the size of a human head than in Ortaköy, where you'll find a strip of stands serving  kumpir  that are wildly popular among tourists and locals alike. Once you’ve picked your spud and toppings, head over to the Ortaköy pier square for a meal with a view.

32.  See an independent film at Kadıköy Sineması

• Independent

What is it?  Opened in 1967, the family-run Kadıköy Sineması is one of Istanbul's oldest cinemas.

Why go?  Undoubtedly one of the best places to catch a film on the Asian side, Kadıköy Sineması is nestled in an arcade on the main shopping street in Kadıköy and regularly screens an array of domestic, international and independent films. Kadıköy Sineması is the only surviving cinema in Istanbul to maintain its original decor – most notably the auditorium's striking ribbed ceiling.

33.  Taste forgotten Anatolian recipes at Çiya Sofrası

What is it?  Çiya serves Anatolian dishes (mostly Eastern Mediterranean and Southeastern Anatolian), all made with ingredients imported from their native regions.

Why go?  Their wide selection of delicious dishes is accompanied by an assortment of herbs, most of which you’ve probably never heard of. The two-storey venue offers such unusual dishes as mualle (aubergine and lentil stew with pomegranate molasses), maş (mung bean) soup, sitti simidi (thin cracked wheat rice), and yeşil erik tavası (green plum stew).  Çiya has two more branches on the same street where you can try kebabs and other local dishes.

34.  Hang out with a cocktail in hand at Arkaoda

What is it?  Since setting up shop on the bar street Kadife Sokak in 1999, this iconic establishment has had a pioneering role in Kadıköy’s transformation into Istanbul’s hippest neighbourhood. 

Why go?  Antique velvet armchairs, good music and cosy dim lighting make Arkaoda a great place to chill with friends for hours at a time. A cosy café by day and an ever-popular bar/club by night, Arkaoda is our favourite watering hole on Kadife Sokak, Kadıköy’s main bar street.  Arkaoda's calendar is peppered with a diverse selection of underground DJs from Istanbul and abroad, with live shows taking place on the upper floor.

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Things to Do in Istanbul: Best Tourist Attractions and Activities

Istanbul is an enchanting city that straddles Europe and Asia, blending ancient and modern cultures. With its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and delicious cuisine, Istanbul has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a shopaholic, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Istanbul won’t disappoint. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 things to do in Istanbul, so you can make the most of your visit.

1. Hagia Sophia

No trip to Istanbul is complete without a visit to the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a majestic architectural wonder that has stood the test of time for nearly 1,500 years. Originally constructed as a Byzantine cathedral in 537 AD, this stunning monument later served as a mosque during the Ottoman Empire and is now a museum, allowing travelers to explore its fascinating past. Gazing at Hagia Sophia’s massive, iconic dome and its intricate mosaics, you’ll be captivated by its harmonious blend of Byzantine and Islamic artistic styles, making it a must-see attraction for anyone with a love for history, architecture, and culture.

As you step inside the vast and atmospheric interior of Hagia Sophia, you’ll be struck by the extraordinary play of light and shadow, as well as the magnificent frescoes, mosaics, and calligraphic inscriptions that adorn its walls. Be sure to look for the Deesis Mosaic, a stunning piece of Byzantine art depicting Christ, the Virgin Mary, and John the Baptist. And don’t miss the expansive collection of Islamic artifacts, including intricately carved wooden doors and elaborate bronze lamps. Hagia Sophia is a testament to Istanbul’s rich and diverse history, making it an essential stop for any traveler seeking to fully experience this enchanting city.

2. Topkapi Palace

For travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the fascinating history and lavish lifestyle of the Ottoman Empire, a visit to Topkapi Palace is an absolute must. This sprawling complex, located in the historic Sultanahmet district, served as the primary residence and administrative center for Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th century. As you wander through its beautifully designed courtyards, grand halls, and lush gardens, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the grandeur and opulence that defined the lives of the sultans and their court.

Topkapi Palace offers an engaging and diverse range of sights, from the Imperial Harem, where the sultan’s family and concubines lived, to the ornate Throne Room, showcasing the power and prestige of the Ottoman Empire. Be sure to visit the Palace Kitchens, which now house an impressive collection of Chinese porcelain, and the Treasury, displaying a dazzling array of precious jewels, including the famed Topkapi Dagger and the jaw-dropping 86-carat Spoonmaker’s Diamond. Topkapi Palace is a treasure trove of history, art, and architecture that will enchant any traveler and provide a captivating window into the lives of Istanbul’s legendary rulers.

3. Grand Bazaar

For travelers seeking a truly immersive and memorable shopping experience in Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar is an absolute must-visit destination. With its origins dating back to the 15th century, this expansive, covered market is one of the largest and oldest in the world, featuring a maze of more than 4,000 shops, teeming with unique and enticing treasures. As you wander through the bazaar’s bustling lanes, under its colorful, vaulted ceilings, you’ll be enveloped in a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas, making it the perfect place to discover authentic Turkish goods and soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

The Grand Bazaar offers a diverse range of products for visitors to explore, from intricate handwoven carpets and traditional ceramics to glittering gold jewelry and colorful lanterns. Haggle with friendly shopkeepers to get the best price, sample mouthwatering delicacies at food stalls, or simply people-watch as locals engage in lively conversation over cups of strong Turkish tea. With its kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and experiences, the Grand Bazaar is an unforgettable destination that embodies the very essence of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage and should not be missed during your visit to this enchanting city.

4. Blue Mosque

One of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, the Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to experience the splendor and spiritual atmosphere of this captivating city. Completed in 1616, this architectural masterpiece is renowned for its exquisite blue Iznik tiles, which adorn the interior of the mosque, and its six slender minarets that pierce the city’s skyline. As you enter the mosque’s sprawling courtyard, you’ll be struck by its grandeur, symmetry, and the sense of serenity that pervades this sacred space.

When visiting the Blue Mosque, take time to appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship of its interior, from the vibrant tiles and intricate calligraphy to the cascading chandeliers that bathe the vast prayer hall in a soft, ethereal glow. As you absorb the mosque’s sublime beauty and spiritual ambiance, you’ll undoubtedly gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history and artistic heritage of Istanbul. Please note that the Blue Mosque remains an active place of worship, so be sure to dress modestly and be mindful of prayer times. With its breathtaking architecture and unique cultural significance, the Blue Mosque is an essential destination for any traveler seeking to fully immerse themselves in the wonders of Istanbul.

5. Galata Tower

Galata Tower is a must-see attraction in Istanbul, Turkey. Located in the heart of the city, this tower offers breathtaking views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus. The tower was built in the 14th century and has since been restored, making it a perfect example of Ottoman architecture. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy the panoramic views of Istanbul, making it a great spot for photos.

Aside from its stunning views, Galata Tower also offers a variety of restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the sights. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, making it a great place to soak up the local culture and meet new people. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience in Istanbul, be sure to add Galata Tower to your list of things to do.

6. Taksim Square

For those seeking the vibrant heart of modern Istanbul, look no further than Taksim Square. This bustling hub of activity is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike, offering a wide array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. As you stroll through the lively streets, you’ll find a diverse mix of international brands, local boutiques, and bustling cafes. Taksim Square is also the perfect starting point for a leisurely walk down Istiklal Street, one of the city’s most famous pedestrianized thoroughfares, where you can enjoy street performers, historic buildings, and the iconic red tram.

Taksim Square is not only a center for commerce and entertainment but also holds historical and cultural significance. The square is home to the Ataturk Monument, commemorating the founder of modern Turkey, as well as the Republic Monument, marking the formation of the Turkish Republic. Additionally, Taksim Square often hosts various events, such as concerts, political rallies, and celebrations during national holidays. Be sure to include Taksim Square on your Istanbul itinerary for a taste of the city’s energetic contemporary scene.

7. Basilica Cistern

For travelers seeking a unique and memorable experience in Istanbul, a visit to the Basilica Cistern is highly recommended. This ancient underground cistern, also known as the “Sunken Palace,” is an engineering marvel that dates back to the Byzantine Empire. As you descend into the dimly lit, cavernous space, you’ll be mesmerized by the forest of 336 marble columns supporting the immense structure, as well as the enchanting atmosphere created by the soft illumination and the sound of dripping water.

While exploring the Basilica Cistern, be sure to seek out its most famous features: the two Medusa head column bases, which add a touch of mythological intrigue to this fascinating site. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a cool escape from Istanbul’s bustling streets, the Basilica Cistern offers an unforgettable experience that should not be missed during your visit to this captivating city.

8. Dolmabahce Palace

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, one of the must-visit attractions is the magnificent Dolmabahce Palace. This stunning 19th-century palace offers a glimpse into the opulence and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire and is situated along the scenic Bosphorus Strait. As you explore the palace’s beautifully landscaped gardens and marvel at its Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical architectural styles, you’ll be transported back in time to the days when sultans ruled this fascinating city.

As a traveler visiting Dolmabahce Palace, you’ll be captivated by its lavish interiors, adorned with crystal chandeliers, gold leaf decorations, and luxurious furnishings. Don’t miss the Ceremonial Hall, which houses the world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, or the exquisite harem, where the sultan’s family and concubines once resided. In addition to its architectural beauty, the palace holds significant historical importance as the site where Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, spent his last days. Be sure to include Dolmabahce Palace on your Istanbul itinerary for an unforgettable experience of Turkish history and culture.

9. Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is a vibrant and historic market located in Istanbul, Turkey. This covered marketplace, with its colorful spices, fragrant teas, and exotic sweets, is a feast for the senses. The Spice Bazaar dates back to the 17th century and has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike for centuries.

Things to Buy at Spice Bazaar

• Spices: The Spice Bazaar is famous for its wide variety of spices, including saffron, sumac, cumin, and paprika. Be sure to sample some of the spices before you buy!
• Tea: Turkish tea is a staple of the Spice Bazaar. You can find many different types of tea here, including apple tea, rose tea, and traditional Turkish black tea.
• Turkish Delight: This sweet treat is a must-try when visiting Istanbul. The Spice Bazaar has a great selection of Turkish Delight, with flavors like rose, pistachio, and lemon.
• Nuts and Dried Fruits: The Spice Bazaar also offers a variety of nuts and dried fruits, including apricots, figs, almonds, and pistachios.

10. Bosphorus Cruise

A Bosphorus Cruise is a must-do activity for visitors to Istanbul. This scenic boat ride takes you along the Bosphorus Strait, which separates Europe and Asia. Along the way, you’ll pass by charming fishing villages, historic palaces, and stunning waterfront mansions. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views.

You can get a ticket for a Bosphorus cruise at several locations in Istanbul. One of the most popular places to purchase tickets is at the Eminonu Pier, which is located near the Galata Bridge. You can also purchase tickets at the Kabatas Pier, which is located on the European side of Istanbul, or at the Besiktas Pier, which is located on the Asian side of Istanbul. Additionally, many tour companies offer Bosphorus cruises as part of their Istanbul tour packages, so you may be able to purchase tickets through your tour operator as well. It is always a good idea to check the official website or contact the tour company directly before purchasing tickets to ensure availability and to confirm the departure times.

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22 Must See Places in Istanbul – Turkey

Istanbul is one of my favorite cities in the world. People who have been there always seem to understand that when I declare it. It is only those who have not been there yet who wonder why Istanbul. It is s city with a rich and enduring history that goes back to Roman times, overlaid with a Muslim, Turkish history which goes back to 1453. It feels like a European city, which it is, but at times can also feel like a Middle Eastern city. It has one foot in Europe and one in Asia and is a great gateway city to the Muslim world.

In this post, I will talk about some of my favorite sites to see in Istanbul. Also check out 3 Days in Istanbul, Turkey for an itinerary.

Hagia Sophia

• Sultan Ahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque)

Topkapi Palace

Basilica cistern.

• Obelisk of Thutmose III (Hippodrome)
• Grand Bazaar

Mısır Çarşısı (Spice Bazaar)

Theodosian walls, yedikule (fortress of the seven towers), saint savior in chora.

• Süleymaniye Mosque

Galata Tower

• İstiklal Caddesi (İstiklal Avenue)
• Taksim Square

Dolmabahçe Palace

Ortaköy and the bosphorus bridge, bosphorus cruise, rumelihisarı and anadoluhisarı, free things to do in istanbul, istanbul attractions map, accommodations, istanbul e-pass, istanbul sites.

One of the most enduring buildings in Istanbul is Hagia Sophia. This church was built by the order of the Roman Emperor Justinian I. It was the world’s largest building from its completion in 537 until the completion of the cathedral in Seville Spain in 1520, almost 1,000 years.

Whether you take a one day tour or are visiting on your own Hagia Sophia is one of the important sites. But, the site changed in 2020. It had been made into a museum during the time of Attaturk but has been converted back into an active mosque. How this will affect visiting is not yet clear. You can skip the line by pre-purchasing a VIP pass , the Istanbul Welcome Card , or a combo ticket that includes Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern. 

It was built as a Christian cathedral but then served as a mosque after the Turkish conquest in 1453. At the time the Christian elements of the church were covered up and only exposed again when it became a museum in modern Turkey.

What’s the point of being emperor if you can’t include a picture of you and your queen along with your good friend Mary the mother of Jesus.

Hagia Sophia influenced the design of churches in the region and later also influenced the design of mosques like the famous Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Mosque) just opposite from Hagia Sophia.

The nickname Blue Mosque comes from some of the tiles in the interior of the mosque (which is really not particularly blue).

Visiting a mosque: Non-muslims are welcome to visit mosques like the Sultan Ahmet Mosque but should not enter during prayer times or worship times mid-day on Friday. Dress appropriately. Don’t wear short or revealing clothing. Women should cover their heads. Carry a simple scarf so that you are ready to peek into an interesting mosque you may see. Remember that you are visiting a house of worship and act accordingly. This is not the place to do flash photography or a shout out to your friends on Live Chat.

After the conquest of Istanbul by Mehmed the Conqueror in 1453, he built himself a palace in the oriental design of the Turks. This remained the palace of the Ottoman Empire until it was replaced in 1843 by Dolmabahçe palace. The palace is part of the Historic Areas of Istanbul UNESCO site as is Hagia Sophia.

Don’t expect a lot of furniture in the palace as this palace is a much more oriental design where people sat on pillows or cushions in large relatively sparse rooms. It is a reminder that while you are standing in Europe today, the Turks came originally from much further east and were more influenced at the time of its construction by the east than the west.

A museum in the palace holds the national treasures of Turkey. These treasures include jewel-encrusted swords, manuscripts, but also significant religious relics like the turban of Joseph, the staff of Moses, a tooth from Mohammed, and the swords of the first four Caliphs. The lines can get long. You can skip the line by pre-purchasing a VIP pass , the Istanbul Welcome Card , or a combo ticket that includes Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern. 

To get some sense of the layering of history in Istanbul, visit the Basilica Cistern. This underground reservoir was built by the Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. After the conquest by the Turks, it was forgotten for 100 years until someone started to wonder how local residents were able to fish through holes in their basements. Apparently, there are hundreds of ancient cisterns below the city streets of Istanbul. You can skip the line by buying admission in advance. 

Look for the two different columns that have the head of the mythical Medusa at their base.

One reminder that Istanbul was once a Roman city is the Egyptian Obelisk of Thutmose III. This obelisk dates back to the 1400s BC. but was brought to Constantinople by the Roman Emperor Constantius II in 357 A.D. to celebrate being on the throne for 20 years. It was later moved to this site which was the site of the old Roman Hippodrome or horse racing course. Look at the shape of the long narrow square you are in and see if you can picture charioteers like in the movie Ben Hur.

Right next to the obelisk is the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts.

If you are looking to do some shopping, especially for a Turkish carpet then you should make a stop at the expansive Grand Bazaar. This is an indoor shopping area that has plenty that tourists might buy. The shop keepers speak an astonishing array of languages.

As a photographer, I love the Spice Bazaar for its displays of fragrant spices. A small bag of spices to cook something Turkish can make a great souvenir, especially if you take the time to take a cooking class while you are in Istanbul.

The name of the bazaar literally translates to the Egyptian Bazaar.

For over a thousand years the impressive Walls of Constantinople kept out all invaders (well, there was that one regrettable incident in the 4th crusade that no one wants to talk about). They kept out enemies like the Ostrogoths and Atilla the Hun. You can still walk these walls and see what made them so impressive. They are far enough away from the normal tourist areas that you will need to grab a bus or an Uber to get to them. If you managed to breach the outer wall you had the unpleasant surprise of finding yourself trapped between it and an inner wall. It was not until Mehmed the Conqueror brought his canons to besiege it that they fell.

Anchoring the Walls of Constantinople at the southern point is the Fortress of the Seven Towers. This is a great place to get up on the walls and explore.

From the walls look south and you can see something like 100 ships bringing goods through the Bosphorus.

On the way to the Theodisian Walls stop at one of my favorite under-visited spots in Istanbul: Saint Savior In Chora Church. It is a small church unlike the towering Hagia Sophia but Saint Savior In Chora has some of the best-preserved Byzantine mosaics and murals. Both churches had the murals plastered over when they were converted to mosques after the conquest of the Turks in the 1400s, and both also had them uncovered when they were converted into museums in the 1900s.

Watch Travel to Istanbul – St Saviour in Chora – Amateur Traveler Video Episode 14 to see what this site looks like today.

The Süleymaniye Mosque was built by Suleiman the Magnificent. Suleiman was a sultan at the highpoint of Ottoman rule. His armies conquered Hungary, Rhodes, Belgrade, and threaten all of Western Europe before they were defeated at the walls of Vienna. A bit of trivia for you, the croissant was invented in Vienna to commemorate the victory over the Ottoman Turks, hence its crescent shape.

You may have heard that London has the oldest subway in the world, but did you know that Istanbul has the second oldest? The Tünel is quite different from the Underground as it is an underground funicular that is made to climb the hill of the neighborhood of Beyo?lu towards the Galata Tower.

The very un-Turkish looking tower that this the most notable landmark in the neighborhood of Beyo?lu is the Galata Tower. It was built by the Genoese in 1348 when the city had expanded to the northern shore of the body of water known as the Golden Horn.

• İstiklal Caddesi (İstiklalAvenue)

İstiklalCaddesi (İstiklalAvenue) is a pedestrian shopping street that runs from Galata Tower towards Taksim Square. This is where you will rub shoulders with the real day to day life of Istanbul as it is as popular with locals as it is with tourists

Stop at the Galata Mevlevi Museum to see the famous Whirling Dervish Dance show . The Whirling Dervishes are a Sufi order of Islam. It was founded by a 13th-century Persian poet and is known for its exuberant dance.

If you are an art lover the Istanbul Modern Art Museum is very near to the avenue.

The Flower Passage ( Cicek Pasaji) is a colorful flower market that has been converted into a popular traditional restaurant.

When you get to Taksim Square you are in an area of shops, restaurants, and hotels that is the heart of modern Istanbul. The monument in the center of the square is dedicated to the founding of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. Taksim square is also a major transit hub.

The Dolmabahçe Palace is an ornate palace built in the European style towards the end of Ottoman rule. While Topkapi Palace may seem sparsely decorated the same cannot be said for Dolmabahçe. The decorator was not going for subtle.

Dolmabahçe Palace is colorful, lavash, and cost about 25% of the annual revenue. The Ottoman empire was not in great financial shape at the time of its construction. This didn’t help.

One of the photos most used by the Turkish tourism board to promote the country is the picture of this small mosque at the base of the Bosphorus Bridge in a small square filled with pigeons. This picturesque spot is Ortaköy. If it does not look familiar now, you will be surprised by how many times you see this picture in the future.

Istanbul is defined by the water that surrounds it. It is hard to say you have been to Istanbul if you have not gotten out into a boat. This might just be a ferry from the European side of the city to the Asian side, but I also highly recommend a cruise up the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea.

North of the city you can see the two fortresses built on either side of the Bosphorus Rumelihisarı (on the European side built by Mehmed the Conqueror) and Anadoluhisarı (on the Asia side built by his father Murad II). These fortresses were built in preparation for the siege of Istanbul. They were later used to control trade on the Bosphorus, coming in and out of the Black Sea.

Anadoluhisarı translates to “Anatolian Fortress” and Rumelihisarı translates to “Throat-Cutter Castle”. 

While you can tour them if you just want to get a photo of them I highly recommend a cruise on a site-seeing boat on the Bosphorus. You can catch one from Ortaköy.

From this list, all outdoor sites, bazaars, and mosques are free… unless you buy a carpet at the Grand Bazaar.

• Ortaköy Mosque
• Spice Bazaar

I recommend staying in the Sultanahmet neighborhood if you are looking for a quiet place in the history part of the city. If you are looking for nightlife stay closer to the Taksim square area.

Istanbul E-pass is the city sightseeing pass that covers over 60 Top Istanbul Attractions all in 1 digital pass. It has 2, 3, 5, and 7 days options. There is no physical card, you get a digital pass with the confirmation after purchase instantly. There are 3 types of attractions;

Guided Tours : We offer museums and historical buildings with guided tours. The only thing for a guest is to meet with a guide at the meeting point at meeting time. Walk-in Attractions : Simply show the pass to the counter and get in. Reservation Required : Some attractions include pick-up or a seat that needs to be reserved. The E-pass panel allows guests to make a reservation in seconds.

Istanbul E-pass Attractions

• Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Palace w Harem, Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, Spice Bazaar, Istiklal Street, Rustempasha Mosque, Hippodrome Guided Tours
• Topkapi Palace w Harem, Galata Tower, Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, Rumeli Fortress, Mosaic Museums, Archeology Museum, Hagia Irene entry
• Bosphorus Cruise with Dinner & Turkish Show
• Whirling Dervishes Performance
• Bursa & Mount Uludag, Sapanca Lake & Masukiye, Sile & Agva Day Trip Tours
• Madame Tussauds Istanbul, Sealife Aquarium Istanbul, Istanbul Aquarium, Museum of Illusions Istiklal, Museum of Illusions Anatolia (Emaar Square) Entrance
• Legoland Discovery Centre Istanbul, Saphire Observation Deck, Skyride 4D Simulation, Safari Park, Dungeon Park Entrance
• Bosphorus Cruise (1,5 Short time cruise), Hop on Hop Off Bosphorus Cruise
• Princes Island Roundtrip Ferry
• Airport Transfer (Shuttle), Private Airport Transfer (Discounted)

Istanbul has much to offer as a modern city but if you love history then a visit to this city is a must.  Who knows you may even think about living in Istanbul .

For what to see if you only have 3 days, check out 3 Days in Istanbul, Turkey

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by Chris Christensen

+Chris Christensen | @chris2x | facebook

6 Responses to “22 Must See Places in Istanbul – Turkey”

I do agree with you Istanbul has a very rich history and widely popular for Islamic culture

I enjoyed reading your guide about Istambul. So much history is unvailed and there are very beautiful pictures. I did not know that croissant, my favorite in the morning, was a symbol of victory over the Ottoman Turks. Thank you for sharing!

You are most welcome Natalia!

Hello Chris . . thanks for your succinct descriptions of the main attractions in Istanbul with dates and brief historical notes. Been there but the information didn’t stick in my mind.

Glad to help

jack ryanwills

Turkey is in the midst of the oriental and occidental worlds. And it’s covered by the Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea. Turkey is a delightful country, with deep history and amazing culture. (We are planning to visit Istanbul very soon)-Looking forward to visiting Turkey.

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21 TOP-RATED TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN ISTANBUL

Istanbul is undoubtedly among those at the top of the pack when it comes to metropolitan tourist attractions. In 2019, the city hosted well over 14.7 million tourists, making it the 9th most popular city globally. The secret to Istanbul’s irresistible allure lies in its long and illustrious history with two of the world’s most powerful empires in history, the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires.

Today, Turkey is a republic, but these civilizations left everlasting landmarks; there are lavish palaces, churches, and magnificent mosques scattered all over Istanbul. Given that these monuments are some of the most bizarre structures on the planet, millions of visitors flock to the city each year to experience the most breathtaking sightseeing experience of their lives.

And while most tourists come to Istanbul with attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace in mind, there are many other dazzling attractions in the city. Therefore, as you read the internet and making a list of favorite places, plan your trip with all of Istanbul’s top attractions in mind. Here is our list of the top-rated tourist attractions in the historic city.

1. Hagia Sophia

For many people planning a tour of Istanbul , exploring the Hagia Sophia is at the top of their to-do list, and rightfully so. Also referred to as the Church of Divine Wisdom, this mosque entrances all who are lucky to behold its magnificence.

Thanks to Christianity and later Islam throughout its history, the Hagia Sophia combines Christian and Muslim architecture elements in the most breathtaking manner. It is even regarded by many as the 8th wonder of the world.

Before becoming the mosque that it is today, the building was used as a church for close to 9 centuries. During its period under Christianity, the Hagia Sophia was burnt to the ground two times before it was finally rebuilt on a grander scale between 532 and 537. Much of the Christian decoration in the structure today dates to this period.

When the Ottomans conquered Constantinople in the 15th century, it was converted into a mosque. The Turks executed certain modifications, including adding four minarets, a buttress, mihrab, bronze lamps, and other Islamic decorations. The end product looked both like a blend of a cathedral and mosque, which sounds unusual, but it actually resulted in one of the most breathtaking pieces of architecture in the modern world.

2. Blue Mosque

Next up on our list is the Hagia Sophia’s direct competitor, the Blue Mosque. This magnificent Mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 on the orders of Sultan Ahmet and is unquestionably the finest example of Ottoman architecture in Turkey. When it was completed, the Blue Mosque raised controversy since it has six minarets, just the Great Mosque of Mecca. To stem the dissent, the Sultan funded the addition of a seventh minaret to the Great Mosque.

Today, the six minarets are one of the most iconic sights in Istanbul’s skyline. Nevertheless, their beauty pales compared to the Mosque’s interior, decorated with more than 20,000 blue Iznik tiles. Thanks to the breathtaking tiles, which also give the Mosque its name, the Blue Mosque has one of the most captivating interiors of any building in the world.

It is also widely accepted that as Sultan Ahmet was commissioning the construction of the Blue Mosque, he wanted a house of worship that would beat the Hagia Sophia in splendor and grandeur. This is mostly the reason why the Mosque sits directly opposite the Hagia Sophia. Now, whether or not he achieved his goal is a matter of opinion; but one thing is for sure, the Blue Mosque is one of the top attractions in Istanbul.

3. Topkapi Palace

Sitting beside the Bosphorus, the glorious Topkapi Palace is the finest example of just how lavish the Ottoman sultans could be. The palace was commissioned by Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century and served as the royal seat of the Ottoman Empire up until the 19th century.

Today, Topkapi Palace is a museum displaying a dazzling imperial collection of the Ottoman Empire. These include Islamic art, books, and relics of the Prophet Muhammad. The palace is also home to the Imperial Treasury, which hosts some of the most precious gems and jewelry from the Ottoman Empire.

Architectural wise, Topkapi Palace is an excellent feat of the Ottoman empire. It has four courtyards, which are lined with intricate hand-painted tile work. The many rooms in the palace are filled with opulent decorations, but of all of these, the most famous is the Harem, a splendid section of the palace that housed the Sultan’s many concubines and children.

Walking through the Second Court leads you to one of the most awe-inspiring sections of the palace; the Imperial Council Chamber. You can also explore the palace kitchens before proceeding to the Third Court, where you can explore the Sultan’s private rooms.

4. Hagia Irene

Inside the walls of Topkapi Palace is another magnificent building that is worth your consideration. Although it lacks the level of opulence and grandeur that define its younger sister, the Hagia Sophia, the Hagia Irene is a historical gem. Of all Byzantine churches in Istanbul, the Hagia Irene has the longest history.

It was first commissioned by the emperor Constantinople in the 4th century before it was destroyed during the Nika revolt and rebuilt by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. Two centuries later, the Hagia Irene was damaged again by an earthquake. As a result of the iconoclasm, the church was rebuilt in a much simpler architecture and, naturally, lost most of its grandeur in the process. Rather than striking mosaics and frescoes like those in the Hagia Sophia, several modest figures were engrained on its walls to keep the church simple.

When the Ottomans occupied Constantinople, the Hagia Irene functioned as an armory, while the neighboring Hagia Sophia was used as a mosque. In the 19th century, it changed into a military museum and then an archeology museum.

Today, the church serves as a museum that entertains those interested in the historical side of things than in the glamour and rich decorations.

5. Istanbul Archaeological Museums

Not far off from Topkapi Palace is a museum complex that will capture the heart of any history lover. Istanbul Archaeological Museums houses some of the most stunning historical artifacts unearthed from most around Turkey and the Middle East.

It has three sections; the Archeology Museum, the Museum of Ancient Orient, and the Tiled Pavilion of Mehmet the Conqueror. The Tiled Pavilion is a treasure of art that holds an excellent collection of ceramic art dating over 900 years ago.

6. Basilica Cistern

If you want an attraction that will blow your mind, the Basilica Cistern is the perfect site for you. This almost surreal cathedral is one of the hundreds of underground cisterns scattered all over Istanbul. Built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I, it is undeniably one of the most astonishing achievements of Byzantine architecture in Istanbul.

The cistern gets its name because it looks like a basilica, but more so because a basilica stood near the area when it was constructed. When full, the Basilica Cistern could hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water. To support the roof, recycled columns from the ancient world were used, and the most famous of these are Medusa column bases in the northwest corner of the cistern.

Today, there isn’t much water in the cistern, but it is enough for a few fish to survive. It is lit by soft red lighting, creating a breathtaking sight when reflected in the waters.

7. Suleymaniye Mosque

Another iconic attraction within the historical Sultanahmet district is the Suleymaniye Mosque. The Mosque was built on top of a hill by the Ottoman architect Sinan between 1549 and 1575 in honor of Suleyman the Magnificent. It has a stunning architectural design, and the inside is filled with some of the most captivating decorations in the city.

Outside the mosque is an idyllic garden that also serves as an Ottoman cemetery housing the Sultan Suleyman’s tombs and his wife, Haseki Hurrem.

8. Spice Market (Misir Carsisi)

The city of Istanbul is also home to some of the most colorful places in Turkey, and one of these is the Spice Market. It was built in the year 1664 as part of the New Mosque complex was called Misir Carsisi in Turkish, which translates to Egyptian Market because it was built using funds from the Ottoman eyalet of Egypt. Spices from Egypt would also be delivered here, and for the longest time, it was the center of Istanbul’s spice business.

Today, the bazaar displays hundreds of spices, dried fruit, Turkish delight, nuts, and herbs. This blend transforms the market into a place full of beautiful colors and sweet aromas. Therefore, it attracts many tourists each day and is usually crowded from 11 am to 4 pm.

9. Grand Bazaar

While the Spice Market dazzles visitors with its colors and fragrances, the Grand Bazaar gives them the perfect shopping experience. As they make rounds through churches, mosques, and museums, tourists love passing by this bazaar, which takes up a whole city square by itself. It is so big that there are a total of 11 gates opening up into the market. Along one of its entrances is the Burned Column, a 40-meter-high porphyry stump set up by Emperor Constantine the Great.

It sits between the Nuruosmaniye Mosque and Beyazit Mosque and is surrounded by thick walls. Here there are hundreds of stalls and shops selling Turkish souvenirs, making it a tourist hotspot. To make exploring a relatively easy experience, the bazaar is divided into specific sections.

10. Dolmabahce Palace

The Dolmabahce Palace is the largest in Turkey and was constructed in 1854 in the Besiktas district of Istanbul along the European shores of the Bosphorus. This was done on the orders of Sultan Abdulmecid I, who felt that the Ottoman style Topkapi Palace didn’t have enough luxury and comfort to match the palaces of European monarchs. To satisfy his tastes, the palace was constructed with clear European influences and was the home of six sultans until the caliphate was abolished in 1924.

Today, the extravagant mix of baroque, neoclassical, and Ottoman influences dazzles tourists with such splendor and pomp that cannot be found anywhere else. The sumptuous interior is filled with fresco-decorated ceilings, French-style furniture, and mesmerizing mammoth chandeliers. Outside, the idyllic gardens make for an excellent environment to take a stroll among blooming flowers, ornamental basins, and beautiful fountains.

11. Maiden’s Tower

Seeing that we are already near the Bosphorus, let’s take a trip downstream to this iconic tower on a small island at the strait’s southern entrance. The little tower dates back to 12th century Byzantine Istanbul and has survived its share of tragedies to become what it is today.

The tower is usually the first stop for tourists sailing along the Bosphorus Strait . There is a small restaurant on the first floor and a café at the top where they get to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.

12. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

For those interested in Ottoman and Islamic art, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts is the place to be. This museum is housed in the palace of Ibrahim Pasa (The Grand Vizier for Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent) and displays a captivating collection of Ottoman carpets from across the centuries. These carpets are so exquisite that textile experts agree that they are amongst the best in the whole world.

Visitors are also treated to excellent displays of wood carvings, ceramics, and calligraphy that date as far back as the 9th century and as recent as the 19th century.

13. Rustem Pasa Mosque

If you love the Blue Mosque, you will most definitely love the Rustem Pasa Mosque. Like with the Blue Mosque, this mosque’s beauty lies in the gorgeous hand-painted Iznik tiles. And while it may not have the grandeur that has made its counterpart world-famous, it contains the best examples of Iznik tiles, hand-painted in reds, blues, and greens. The intricate tiles decorate both the exterior and the interior of the mosque, giving it an almost picture allure.

While the delicate beauty of the mosque will capture your heart, the fact that it is little known makes visiting it even more appealing. Here, there are no crowds; hence, you can embrace the mosque’s breathtaking aura without having to battle with large groups.

14. Galata Tower

Well, if you thought that the most recognizable landscapes in Istanbul were either Muslim or Christian, the Galata Tower will surprise you. Sitting in a predominantly Jewish neighborhood, this tower has an incredible history that spans centuries. Even more astonishing is the panoramic view of the city that the building offers its visitors. Therefore, it is quite a popular site, and you will have to come early if you want to avoid the long line of tourists waiting to enjoy a scenic view of the city’s skyline. However, capturing the perfect sunset also worth the effort.

15. Yedikule Fortress (Yedikule Hisari)

Yedikule Fortress is another gift left over from the occupation of Constantinople by the Byzantine Empire. The fortress dates back to the 5th century during the reign of Emperor Theodosius II, where it was part of the southern section of the city’s defensive walls. There was a mammoth arch (Porta Aurea) that had doors plated in gold. When the Ottoman Turks captured the town, they used it for defense before converting it into a prison and an execution place.

Today, the fortress treats visitors with a little bit of Istanbul’s history and stunning views across the Sea of Marmara .

16. Fatih Mosque

This far down the list, and we can all agree that Istanbul has its share of striking mosques. What you may not know is that it all started at the Fatih Mosque. This mosque was commissioned by Mehmet the Conqueror after conquering the city of Constantinople and is the first of Istanbul’s grand imperial mosques. It sits on top of a hill with stunning domes and minarets adorning the city’s skyline.

The mosque is a popular pilgrimage site and of historical significance, because it houses Sultan Mehmet’s tomb.

17. Pera Museum

Istanbul is also home to an impressive art gallery, Pera Museum. This museum attracts many art lovers who visit to enjoy stunning art collections from the Ottoman era. These include some of the finest Ottoman paintings in the modern world, ceramics, and other objects from the Ottoman Period.

The museum regularly changes exhibitions. Therefore, if you’re lucky, you may get to see pieces from some of the biggest names in the art world.

18. Istanbul Modern

Well, here is another destination for art lovers. The Istanbul Modern gives visitors a break from the historical sightseeing typically associated with Istanbul by displaying an extensive collection of modern Turkish art.

Throughout the year, the art museum hosts different exhibitions from both Turkish and international artists. Today, the art galleries are temporarily hosted in the Beyoglu building as they await the art museum’s new permanent home in Karakoy to be completed.

19. Istiklal Caddesi and Taksim

The Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Street) is one of Istanbul’s most idyllic streets. This street contains an intricate mix of shopping stalls, cafes, restaurants, an old-fashioned tramway, churches, and old consulate buildings. It is also close to Orhan Pamuk’s Museum of Innocence, which is based around the theme of the novel, The Museum of Innocence, by Turkey’s most famous author. The conceptual museum gives visitors an outlandish experience different from other art museums in the city.

To get to the lower end of the street, visitors get to use the world’s oldest underground railway, the Tunel, constructed in 1875. Other interesting places within the road include Macka Park, home to a military museum, and the busy Cumhuriyet Caddesi.

20. Chora Church (Kariye Muzesi)

This beautiful Byzantine church sits just outside the old city walls of Constantinople. The church has survived critical destruction in the 9th century and undergone several facelifts between the 11th and 14th centuries into the structure you see today.

Today, the church is a world-famous museum that houses sparkling 14th-century mosaics. The most intact of these mosaics can be found in the church’s two narthexes while the fragments sit in the nave. There are impressive frescoes on various Christian themes lining the walls and the dome of the Byzantine structure.

21. Carpet Museum

Finally, one of the best places to finish your tour of Istanbul is the carpet museum. This museum gives visitors a glimpse of the incredible heritage and breathtaking artistry of carpets in the city. The museum is part of the Aya Sofya complex, and the carpets are displayed in three galleries. Here, you will learn the history of Turkish rugs as you enjoy brilliant examples from different regions of the country.

How to Make the Most of Your Time in Istanbul

• Set at least two days for exploring the city to ensure you have enough time to visit most of Istanbul’s top attractions.
• Experience and learn a bit of the city’s traditional culture. One of the best ways to do this is to buy an advanced ticket for the intriguing Whirling Dervish Show held at the HodjaPasha. The whirling dervish dance is a UNESCO-listed ceremonial dance and one of the most exciting ceremonial dances you will ever witness.
• Rather than wander around the city by yourself and risk getting lost, rent a professional guide who knows their way around Istanbul’s top attractions.

Book Your Private Tour to Istanbul Today

Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg, but we hope that this guide inspired you to make your own list of the top places to go while in Istanbul. If you like us to be your ambassador touring Istanbul or the entire Turkey, please visit our private tours page here and use the trip planner form for refining your trip. We offer a great variety of trips for anyone who would like to enjoy a true experience.

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Home » Middle East » Turkey » Istanbul

21 BEST Places to Visit in Istanbul (2024)

As a city that straddles two continents, Turkey’s fascinating city of Istanbul really is a place where East meets West; stand in Europe on one side of the Bosporus Strait and cross to the other side to stand in Asia.

Istanbul has a long and colourful history and there are myriad cultural attractions throughout the sprawling city. From viewing glorious buildings, hopping between museums, and cruises on the Bosporus, to shopping, dining, and memorable nights out, there are plenty of fantastic places to visit in Istanbul.

On the downside, planning a trip to Istanbul can be a chore. The city is huge and there are places of interest scattered far and wide.

Now for the positives! Our team of expert travel writers have created this awesome list of the best places to visit in Istanbul to make your travel planning easier. There’s no need to stress about your itinerary.

With a mixture of popular tourist spots and hidden gems, some of these best places to visit in Istanbul are sure to excite you!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Istanbul:

These are the best places to visit in istanbul, faq on the best places to visit in istanbul, have a blast in istanbul.

Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is the historic and cultural heart of Istanbul. It’s the oldest part of the city and is surrounded by bodies of water to the north, east and south, and old city walls to the west.

• Visit the site of the Hippodrome, the former centre of Roman and Byzantine Constantinople.
• Dine on delicious Greek and Turkish food at the famous Pandeli, open since 1901.
• Head underground and walk along the wooden paths as you explore the architecture and history of the Basilica Cistern.

Are you ready for the ride of your lifetime? Before you buckle up, though, be sure to check out where to stay in Istanbul . There’s more to this sprawling metropolis than just Sultanahmet. And now, on to the best places to visit in Istanbul!

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#1 – Blue Mosque – One of the most amazing places in Istanbul!

• Spectacular architecture
• Active mosque
• Ornate details inside and out
• Interesting history

Why it’s awesome: Officially called Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque is one of the most beautiful places in Turkey . Built in the early 1600s, the grand mosque was built as a show of pride and defiance and a way to reaffirm Ottoman power in Istanbul after losing a battle with the Persians. Standing on the site of an earlier Byzantine palace, the beautiful building has six minarets, five large domes, a number of smaller domes, ornate stained glass, and stunning tilework.

With a blend of Islamic and Byzantine Christian features, it is often thought of as the last great mosque to come from the classical period. Still an active place of Islamic worship, the mosque is also open to tourists. If that’s not enough, it was also used as a James Bond location on From Russia With Love!

What to do there: Be sure to dress respectfully to visit the Blue Mosque and women should don the head covering and gowns provided. Marvel at the striking facades that dominate the skyline and be awed by the size of the main hall. See the magnificent stained glass windows, handmade ceramic tiles with various designs, opulent chandeliers, calligraphy, and fine carpets.

The marble niche, known as a mihrab, is a sight to behold. View where the faithful perform their ritualistic ablutions, stand in the huge courtyard, and admire the beautiful fountain. Watch as devout Muslims perform prayers and hear the hypnotic call to prayer sounded five times per day from the soaring minarets.

#2 – Grand Bazaar – A great place in Istanbul if you love to shop!

• Good place to bargain for cheap goods
• Wide array of items
• One of the biggest and oldest covered markets in the world
• Huge number of shops

Why it’s awesome: Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets anywhere across the globe. The gigantic shopping complex, often said to be one of the world’s first shopping malls, can trace its history back to the 1400s and is a must-see when visiting Turkey . Orinally, there were two separate buildings, though as shops and stalls sprung up around them it eventually created a large shopping district. It was once at the hub of trade in the Mediterranean, with many caravans laden with goods passing through from Europe and Asia.

Until the 1800s there were no actual shops in the bustling market; instead, vendors had seats at small stalls, with the more expensive items kept safely in cabinets. Clothes, silk, ceramics, crystal, jewellery, weapons, spices, books, and used goods were just a few things one could find in the market. Today the market has more than 60 covered walkways and in excess of 4,000 shops. It’s definitely a great place for shopaholics!

What to do there: Pass through one of the four traditional gates to enter the market and admire the beautiful architecture of the Grand Bazaar. Inside, high windows provide plenty of light and shops are set into the walls. Browse a staggering array of goods and pick up plenty of local gifts to take home with you.

Colourful lanterns hang in a jumble outside some stores, there are many beautiful garments, and you’ll also find musical instruments, souvenirs, tea sets, jewellery, scented soaps, toys, crafts, and much, much more. Be tempted by display cabinets filled with traditional sweets, and pick up Turkish teas and aromatic spices. There are also so many day trips from Istanbul too, just in case you need even more to pack into your trip!

Picking up a few souvenirs is a must do on any Istanbul itinerary .

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#3 – Basilica Cistern – One of the more unique places to visit in Istanbul!

• Unusual attraction
• Featured in movies and TV shows
• Atmospheric
• Interesting architecture

Why it’s awesome: The Basilica Cistern is the biggest ancient subterranean cistern beneath Istanbul’s teeming streets. Constructed during the 6 th century, it was used to provide water for the city’s palace and other important buildings. It covers around 9,800 square metres (105,000 square feet).  Although it can hold a huge volume of water, just a small amount covers the floor today. The ceiling is supported by grand columns, a few of which have ancient carvings, and the roof has arches and cross-shaped vaults. It is atmospheric, photogenic, and slightly spooky!

What to do there: Descend the 52 steps into the cistern and let your eyes adjust to the gloom. Be wowed by the sheer size of the cistern hidden beneath the streets and follow the walkways round the huge underground complex, seeing small lights reflecting in the waters and the many columns spread out before you. Don’t miss the two columns with carved Medusa heads on their bases; one of the pillars is upside down, making the snake-haired lady even more interesting.

#4 – Galata Tower – Great place to visit in Istanbul for couples!

• Sweeping city views
• Excellent restaurant
• Major sight in the skyline
• Cool nightclub

Why it’s awesome: The medieval Galata Tower was built in the late 1340s by the Genoese. Constructed in a Romanesque style, the tower stands almost 67 metres (220 feet) tall. Visible from far and wide, the nine-storey building is a prominent feature on the Istanbul skyline. The round tower is topped with a conical roof. Once used as a lookout point to detect fires, today it is open to visitors who wish to see panoramic views of Istanbul.

What to do there: Ascend the tower in the elevator (don’t worry—no climbing is required!) and soak up the sweeping views from the observation area. Views take in the peninsula, Old Town, and the Bosporus, and you’ll easily be able to spot many of Istanbul’s significant buildings from your high position.

Sit down for a romantic meal in the restaurant for a delicious meal with great views. There’s also a café if you just want a quick bite to eat. You can also return later on at night for fun and frolics in the tower’s nightclub, where you can also watch a captivating traditional Turkish show.

#5 – Hagia Sophia – One of Istanbul’s coolest historical sites!

• Fascinating blend of religious influences
• Long and colourful history
• Beautiful architecture
• Stunning mosaics and art

Why it’s awesome: Hagia Sophia was one of the biggest buildings in the world when it was constructed in the 500s. A true architectural masterpiece that influenced building designs and practices, it was originally an Orthodox Cathedral. It was later converted into a Catholic Cathedral, and then an Ottoman Mosque, serving as the city’s main mosque for many years.

Each religion has left its mark on the stunning building. Today, it is a museum. Often said to be one of the most spectacular examples of Byzantine architecture on the planet, the pale building is topped with a glorious dome. There are several half domes, buttresses, and towers too. The insides are ornate, with ancient mosaics, large urns, statues, and other impressive aesthetic features.

What to do there: Marvel at the grand building from the outside and be dazzled by the striking interiors. Walk along the nave to stand underneath the gigantic dome and be awed by the way that light floods through the many windows, almost making the dome appear as though it is floating. The lustrous marble, detailed mosaics, arches, and other decorative elements are sure to impress.

See the well-preserved mosaics, including those of Jesus, the Mother and Child, and the archangels Gabriel and Michael, close to calligraphy from the Quran. View where the empress’s throne was once located, marked with a green stone, huge marble urns, various ornate doorways (such as the Nice Door, the Emperor Door, and the Marble Door), and the so-called Wishing Column, which is believed to have miraculous properties.

#6 – Miniatürk – Awesome place to visit in Istanbul with kids!

• Home to many mini scale models
• One of the biggest miniature attraction parks across the globe
• Great for old and young alike
• Explore Turkey without leaving Istanbul

Why it’s awesome: Open since 2003, Miniatürk is home to more than 100 intricate, accurate, and detailed scale models of famous landmarks and places from around Turkey and beyond. It’s a great place to get an overview of the country and learn about important sites that you may not previously have known about. One of the biggest miniature parks in the world, Miniatürk covers around 60,000 square metres (160,000 square feet), with both open and enclosed areas and waterways. It is sure to capture the imagination of people of all ages and is a great place to take the kids for a couple of hours.

What to do there: Explore Turkey and beyond as you discover a wealth of fascinating places. Models are created in a scale of 1:25 and are very accurate. Take a tour of Istanbul, with places like Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, Maiden’s Tower, the Anatolian Fortress, Ataturk Airport, Hagia Sophia, the July 15th Martyrs Bridge, Dolmabahçe Clock Tower, and Eyüp Sultan Mosque among the models in the park.

Travel to other parts of Turkey, with models including Mardin Stone Houses, the remains of Mount Nemrud, Izmir Clock Tower, the Temple of Artemis, and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Global models include the Dome of the Rock, Ataturk’s House, and Mostar Bridge. Watch a cool match at the coin-operated mini stadium, let kids let off steam in the play area, tackle the labyrinth, take a simulated ride in a helicopter, and listen to lovely stories at the Fairytale Tree. Include the sightseeing train or a boat ride in your adventures too.

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#7 – Büyükada – A must visit place to visit in Istanbul on the weekend!

• Island in the Sea of Marmara
• Ancient religious and royal sites
• Almost entirely pedestrianised
• Easy to explore

Why it’s awesome: Büyükada is the biggest of the Princes’ Islands, an island group in the Sea of Marmara. Covering around five square kilometres (two square miles), the island is easy to explore by foot or by bicycle. With the exception of service vehicles, the island is free from motorised transportation. There are diverse attractions on the island, including ancient religious buildings and elegant mansions, and there are also two hills that provide great views.

What to do there: Catch the ferry across to Büyükada and spend a day visiting the island’s interesting landmarks. See the large hilltop Prinkipo Greek Orthodox Orphanage, which is one of the biggest wooden buildings in the world. Climb the other hill to reach the quaint Agia Yorgi Church and lap up the splendid vistas. Explore the valley between the two hills, where you can visit Agios Nikolaos Church and Monastery.

Interestingly, a convent on the island was once used as a place of exile for several Byzantine empresses. Other places of interest include Hamidye Mosque, the former home of Leon Trotsky, Panagia Greek Orthodox Church, the Armenian Church, San Pacifo Church, and the historic mansions of Mizzi, Con Pasa, and Fabiato. See how islanders live and call into a local café for refreshments.

#8 – Eyüp Sultan Mosque – One of the most religious places to see in Istanbul

• Sacred mausoleum
• Lesser-visited mosque
• Exquisite tilework
• Free admission

Why it’s awesome: Located close to the Golden Horn, Eyüp Sultan Mosque is a hugely significant mosque for followers of the Islamic faith. The site is where many people believe that Abu Ayub al-Ansari was buried, a man that was a good friends of the Prophet Muhammad and a standard-bearer. The mausoleum is ornate with many fine Iznik tiles.

The mosque was traditionally where coronations were held for new Ottoman sultans, though the present mosque was built in the early 1800s, occupying the site where an earlier mosque once stood. Non-Muslim visitors can look around the complex, though they must remember to dress respectfully. There is no admission fee for the mosque, but donations are gratefully received.

What to do there: Take pictures of the magnificent pale-coloured building from the outside, taking time to appreciate the glorious domes and soaring minarets. Inside, light floods through the many windows and you are sure to be impressed by the beautiful details of the main dome. Admire the large chandelier that hangs high above the hall, the plush red carpets, and the grand arches and pillars, and watch as Muslims pray and perform religious rituals.

Cross the courtyard to see the lavish tomb of Abu Ayub al-Ansari, adorned with striking Iznik tiles with a rich variety of patterns and hues. Finally, stroll up the hill and pass through the peaceful Eyüp Cemetery.

#9 – Emirgan Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Istanbul

• One of Istanbul’s biggest parks
• Enjoy nature in the city
• Great place for leisure and relaxation
• Free to enjoy

Why it’s awesome: Emirgan Park is one of the biggest public parks in Istanbul, covering some 117 acres (47 hectares) and surrounded by a high wall. The land was once covered with cypress trees, and the estate passed through many owners over the years, eventually becoming available to the public in the 1940s. Filled with many plant and flower species, the pleasant park has two ornamental ponds and three beautiful mansions. A popular recreational spot, there are jogging tracks, walking trails, and places to eat and drink.

What to do there: Take a stroll around the extensive park, seeing the wide array of pretty flora. Trees in the park include pine, cedar, beech, ash, spruce, and willow. The plants attract plenty of birds and insects. Don’t miss seeing the tulips in full bloom if you visit in the spring. Keep fit on the running tracks, relax alongside the ponds, enjoy a picnic, and let kids run and play in the wide open spaces.

See the park’s three mansions; the wooden Yellow Pavilion is maintained like a traditional Ottoman home and houses a cafe, the Pink Pavilion has many historic objects and opens at the weekend as a café, and the White Pavilion also has a café / restaurant and is built in a neo-classical style.

#10 – Isfanbul – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Istanbul

• Top place for family fun
• Assortment of rides and attractions
• Large shopping centre
• Many entertainment options

Why it’s awesome: Previously called Vialand, Isfanbul is an exciting theme park with something to please all members of the family. There are all kinds of rides, fast and tame, big and small. The big shopping centre adds to the diversity, with more than 100 stores selling a range of items and arranged over open-air and enclosed shopping streets.

Within the shopping centre there’s an indoor zoo with a variety of Istanbul attractions , a cinema, and a modern and well-equipped sports centre. You’ll find a good selection of F&B outlets throughout the theme park and the shopping centre too. The park offers heaps of fun for families, friends, and couples.

What to do there: Wear comfy shoes and spend a fun-filled day discovering the many delights of Isfanbul. Feel the rush on the thrilling rollercoaster of Nefeskesen, twirl through the skies on 360, have a wild adventure on Viking, soar high on Adalet Kulesi, and come face to face with the ferocious King Kong.

Drift along the waters on Cilgin Nehir and watch as kids have fun on rides like Ice Age, Angry Birds, the cool swings of Saray Salincagi, and the farm train of Nesili Ciflik. Browse in the boutiques in the shopping centre, watch a movie in the cinema, and see a selection of animals in Jungle, with creatures like tamarins, marmosets, snakes, alligators, turtles, insects, birds, and fish.

#11 – Topkapi Palace – A great place to see in Istanbul if you love architecture

• Former home of Ottoman sultans
• UNESCO-listed site
• Exquisite ornamentation and furnishings

Why it’s awesome: The splendid and large UNESCO-listed Topkapi Palace was built in the mid-1400s. Previously home to sultans and at the heart of political life, some 5,000 people used to call the palace home. Once one of the biggest palaces in the world, it has elements from various ages, added by each sultan.

A fine example of Middle Eastern architecture, it has sweeping courtyards, grand gates, pools, and hundreds of rooms. The details are opulent, with gorgeous carvings, stained glass, and tiles. There are various displays throughout the palace as well, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul.

What to do there: Step back in time and see how leaders from one of the world’s most powerful empires lived in times gone by. Wander through the palace’s many rooms, being dazzled by the spectacular details. Look up at ornate ceilings and at beautifully decorated walls and be in awe of the vibrant colours and details. Note the many golden globes that hang in various rooms; these were a symbol of the sultan’s power, representing the ruler keeping an eye on the whole world. View old Turkish baths, kitchens, living areas, and sleeping quarters.

Pass through rooms used by the sultans, visit the Circumcision Room, where young boys went through ceremonial circumcision procedures, stand where the imperial council used to gather, and explore the lavish rooms of the harem, the place where important females (like the sultan’s mother, wives, and concubines) used to live. Some rooms of the harem were where brothers of the sultans lived, locked away to prevent them from trying to seize power.

Some of the more revered items include a sword said to have belonged to Prophet Muhammad and a staff that is believed to have been used by Moses. After admiring the wealth of architectural delights, brilliant decorative designs, and diverse displays, stroll through the pleasant cypress-filled gardens. Spot the unusual hollowed-out trees and relish the stunning views.

Wonder what to do in Istanbul for 3 days? Head over to our insider’s Weekend in Istanbul guide !

#12 – Chora Church / Kariye Museum – A great place to visit in Istanbul if you are alone/traveling solo

• Ancient church turned into a museum
• Well-preserved internal décor
• Long history
• Learn more about religious events

Why it’s awesome: Chora Church / Kariye Museum stands on the spot of an important cemetery from the 4 th century. Although the exact date of construction of the church itself is unknown, most of the current building dates back to the early 1000s. Constructed in the shape of an inscribed cross, it is famous for its intact and well-preserved religious art. Much of the artwork was added to the church in the 1300s.

The gorgeous images are celebrated as some of the finest examples of frescoes from the Palaiologian Renaissance era. The church was converted into a mosque after the defeat of ancient Constantinople (the former name of Istanbul), with the images hidden underneath layers of plaster. The building was eventually turned into a secular museum and the images were uncovered for everyone to enjoy.

What to do there: Feast your eyes on the striking domed building before discovering the three main inner areas of the entrance hall, main church area, and side chapel. Walk slowly along the sweeping outer entrance corridor, viewing dazzling mosaics that include the nativity, miracles, the journey of the Magi, people fleeing to Egypt, and massacres carried out on the orders of King Herod.

Continue into the wide inner entrance hall, where you’ll find even more stunning mosaics. Learn more about the life of the Virgin Mary, created using the Apocryphal Gospels. Step through the large doors into the main part of the church for even more visual splendour, and discover the beautiful side chapel, which was once used to honour deceased people.

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#13 – Karaköy Lokantas? – A must-see for foodies!

• Eye-catching surroundings
• Popular eatery
• Wide choice of traditional Turkish dishes
• Relaxed ambience

Why it’s awesome: Karaköy Lokantas? is one of Istanbul’s fanciest lokantas, restaurants where locals savour fresh home-made dishes at great prices and with a lively vibe. Many of the best food tours in Istanbul don’t even go this far. The atmosphere is lively, the staff members are friendly, and the service is top notch.

In the daytime it’s a favourite spot for local workers, while in the evenings it transforms into a cool wine house. The décor is attractive, with blue and white tiles, pillars, and a marvellous staircase. The menu contains a great selection of Turkish fare and there’s a well-stocked meze counter to tempt diners too.

What to do there: Admire the beautiful surroundings and soak up the convivial vibe as you sink your teeth into Turkish specialities. Try to go with a group of people—it’s even better when you can share and try lots of dishes! Grab a selection of dishes from the meze counter and ponder the extensive menu. Hot starters include calamari, grilled octopus, and fried courgette, and there’s also a selection of soups and salads.

Mains include chicken and rice, grilled meatballs, and fried liver. Of course, there are plenty of sweets to finish with, and you can order Turkish tea or wine to accompany your meal. Fancy something stronger? Knock back a glass of raki. Come at lunchtime for cheaper prices and a midday buzz, or book a table for a fabulous dinner.

#14 – Yeralti Camii – Quite the quirky place in Istanbul!

• Religious site
• Open to non-Muslims

Why it’s awesome: Located close to the Galata Bridge at Karakoy Harbour, Yeralti Camii is a rather unusual attraction … an underground mosque! Hidden out of sight, the mosque is in what was the crypt of an old castle. The space is believed by many to have been where a gigantic chain was anchored, the chain in place to stop enemy boats from entering the Golden Horn.

Later, the basement was used to store ammunition. It has been used as a place of worship since the 1750s. It’s atmospheric, quiet, and more than a bit eerie! The mosque is open to members of the public outside of prayer times.

What to do there: Enter through the street-level doorways, heading along the narrow, low, and dimly lit tunnels. Shadows flicker on the walls, heightening the slightly unnerving atmosphere. Explore the underground place of worship, walking past stubby pillars that create little cubbies that are perfect for peaceful prayer and contemplation. See the tombs of two Arab martyrs, discovered in 1640. Local legends say that the graves were found because of a dream. Remember to dress modestly when visiting the mosque.

#15 – Istanbul Archaeology Museums – A fascinating educational place to visit in Istanbul

• Three excellent informative museums
• Wide range of exhibits
• Learn more about Turkey’s history and culture
• Discover interesting historical facts about the world

Why it’s awesome: The Istanbul Archaeology Museums contains three top-class museums within easy reach of each other: the main Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the Museum of the Ancient Orient. The museums contain more than a million artefacts and objects from across the world and from different time periods. The original museum was founded in 1891, with later additions. It’s a top place to learn more about the past.

What to do there: Travel back in time as you see the well-curated displays and exhibitions in the Istanbul Archaeology Museums. Enter the handsome neoclassical building of the Archaeological Museum and view a vast collection of ancient coffins and tomb stones, including the famous and ornate sarcophagus that is believed to have been made for Alexander the Great.

There are also statues, mosaics, and more to admire as you journey through the city’s Ancient, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman eras. The Museum of the Ancient Orient contains a large array of items from before Islam that were retrieved from all around the extensive lands of the mighty Ottoman Empire. The striking Tiled Pavilion is home to the Museum of Islamic Arts, where you can see a huge assortment of decorative objects.

#16 – Bebek – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Istanbul

• Off the typical tourist track
• Hip and trendy vibe
• Historic neighbourhood
• Popular with locals

Why it’s awesome: Bebek may not be top of the list for tourists, but it’s an incredibly popular place with locals. The atmosphere is energetic, especially at the weekends, and there’s plenty to enjoy in the area. The historic neighbourhood sits alongside the Bosphorus and it has been a sought-after residential district since the Ottoman period. There are many charming buildings along the waterfront. One of Turkey’s most prestigious universities can be found in the area, it has a lovely promenade, and there are many top-class boutiques and eateries.

What to do there: Mingle with affluent locals and go for a walk along the seaside promenade, slapping up the splendid vistas that include the deep, sheltered bay, the Bosphorus, and small fishing boats bobbing on the waters. See the old mosque, the attractive late-19 th -century pale art nouveau mansion that now houses the Egyptian Embassy, and the remains of Rumeli Hisari castle.

Peek into fancy art galleries and window shop at glamorous boutiques. Mingle with locals and unwind in a hip café or sit down for a filling meal in one of the cool restaurants. In the evening, enjoy a youthful and jolly vibe in the area’s trendy bars.

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#17 – Çamlica Hill – A perfect place to visit in Istanbul if you are on a budget!

• Spend time outdoors in a pretty park
• Beautiful vistas
• One of the highest hills in Istanbul
• Few foreign visitors

Why it’s awesome: Çamlica Hill is one of Istanbul’s highest hills and it boasts a beautiful park that is a popular leisure and recreation spot with locals. Few tourists, however, visit the hill. Located on the Asian side of the city, the hill offers terrific views of the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, and both the European and Asian parts of Istanbul.

Just as Istanbul’s best hostels are kind to people on a budget, this public park is free to enjoy and it’s home to lots of foliage and flowers, fountains, and charming teahouses and cafes. The nearby Çamlica Mosque, constructed in 2016, is an enormous building; indeed, it’s one of the biggest mosques in the Asia Minor region. Several eminent Turkish authors have referenced the hill in their works.

What to do there: Stand some 268 metres (879 feet) above sea level and marvel at the spectacular views. You can see both sides of the Bosphorus Straits as well as the two bridges that span the water to connect Europe and Asia. Relax in the park and tea garden, spot various species of birds, eat a cool ice cream, and enjoy various Turkish dishes in the restaurant. Try and come around sunset to watch one of Mother Nature’s most awesome shows.

#18 – Taksim Square – A great place to visit in Istanbul at night

• Said to be the centre of modern Istanbul
• See the Republic Monument
• Wide array of bars and restaurants
• Energetic atmosphere

Why it’s awesome: Taksim Square is a bustling and lively part of Istanbul. Often referred to as the heart of modern Istanbul, it’s popular with both locals and tourists alike. There are many great Airbnb’s dotted around the area as well as a wealth of shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s also a significant transportation hub and home to a large cultural centre. The large square hosts many parades and celebrations, including a huge gathering on New Year’s Eve.

What to do there: Stroll along the busy pedestrianised shopping street of istiklal Caddesi, where you can buy a range of international and local goods. Take a ride on the olde-worlde tram, often a huge hit with kids, and see the Republic Monument that was built to celebrate the 5 th anniversary of Turkey’s independence.

Catch the subway and travel along the second-oldest subway line in the world. Visit the Atatürk Cultural Centre, book tickets to the opera, and dine in an array of restaurants. As evening falls, hit up the area’s vibrant bars for a fun night out.

#19 – Belgrad Forest – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Istanbul

• Experience nature close to the busy city
• Tranquil and serene
• Abundance of flora and fauna
• See the remains of old communities

Why it’s awesome: Covering 13,590 acres (5,500 hectares), the huge Belgrad Forest is a great place to escape the chaotic city streets and spend time in nature. Named after the large number of Serbs who ended up in the area after Belgrade was captured by the Ottomans, the forest has remains of ancient settlements scattered throughout. You’ll find marshland at the heart of the forest, and there are nine nature parks. Lots of creatures and various plant species inhabit the forest. There are plenty of leisure and exercise opportunities, including hiking and jogging.

What to do there: Spot an array of flora and fauna as you explore the forest’s diverse trails and paths. Visit Atatürk Arboretum, home to around 2,000 different types of plants in well-arranged gardens. You’re also likely to come across various historic buildings as you roam around the forest.

If you’re feeling energetic you can get a workout at the free-to-use gym equipment along the track near Neset Spring. See the large Valens Aqueduct and old dams from the Ottoman period. Spend time in Bahçeköy, a small local town close to the forest’s centre. Enjoy al fresco dining at the picnic areas and cook up a storm with the BBQ facilities.

#20 – Ortaköy Mosque – One of the nicer places in Istanbul to sightsee!

• Splendid views
• Gorgeous architecture
• Featured on many postcards and promotional materials
• Cool neighbourhood

Why it’s awesome: Sitting next to the Bosphorus at Ortaköy pier square and close to a bridge, Ortaköy Mosque is one of Istanbul’s prettiest places of worship. Standing on the site of an older mosque, the present neo-baroque building was constructed in the middle of the 19 th century. The views are stunning, both outwards along the water from the mosque, and across the Straits with the mosque next to the water. The insides are beautiful with many impressive details. It’s free to visit the mosque, although donations are most welcome.

What to do there: Try and get just the right angle to snap a picture of the mosque with its pretty reflection glinting in the sunshine on the water’s surface. You can also capture the mosque with the Bosphorus Bridge in the same shot, providing a great image that perfectly shows Istanbul’s historic and modern faces.

Appreciate the rich details inside the light-filled mosque, including lovely mosaics under the dome, chandeliers, green circles with golden calligraphy, and delicate carvings. Take a stroll around the surrounding area to find the Etz-Ahayim synagogue and Greek Orthodox Church too.

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#21 – Istanbul Museum of Modern Art – Cool place to see in Istanbul with friends!

• Turkey’s first modern art museum
• Local and international artists
• Photography gallery
• Regular creative events

Why it’s awesome: Established in 2004, Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (also known as Istanbul Modern) was the first dedicated museum of modern and contemporary art in Turkey. It aims to introduce people to the world of modern art and help people to fall in love with art. It hosts both permanent and temporary collections, displaying the works of well-known and up-and-coming Turkish artists as well as foreign artworks.

Collections show the nation’s diverse heritage and cultures. There are regular collaborations with famous art institutions around the world, including MoMa and the Pompidou Centre. The museum also has a photo gallery, a library, a cinema, a gift shop, and a café. Various creative events are held at the museum, including those related to literature, film, painting, architecture, and so on.

What to do there: Take time to appreciate the diverse modern pieces housed on the first three floors of Istanbul Museum of Modern Art; with ever-changing displays it doesn’t matter if you’ve visited the museum before, you’ll still find plenty of new pieces to admire. Turkish artists include Omer Uluc, Hale Tenger, Seyhun Topuz, Inci Evener, and Nuri Iyem. International artists include Liam Gillick, Julian Opie, Tony Cragg, and Monica Bonvicini.

Each gallery has interesting information detailing the importance of certain pieces and the development of modern art in Turkey. Visit the photography gallery on the 4 th floor for more creative stimulation and to learn more about how the arts movement in general had an impact on photography. Check the program of events, relax in the café, and pick up souvenirs from the gift shop.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Istanbul

What is Istanbul famous for?

Istanbul is famous for being the dividing line between Europe and Asia and the former capital of the Roman and Ottoman empire.

Is 3 days in Istanbul enough?

Personally, I would say you need at least 5 days to explore all of Istanbul.

Is Istanbul an expensive place to visit?

No, Istanbul is a very affordable place to visit. Accommodation can be cheap and the cost of eating out is cheap.

What can you do in Istanbul for free?

It is free to enter the mosques in Istanbul, but you do need to wear a head scarf if you’re a woman. If you forget yours, you in some places such as the Hagga Sofia, you need to pay for one at the entrance.

From historic religious sites, some of which now operate as secular museums, and beautiful architecture, to leafy parks, vibrant markets, and lively amusement parks, Istanbul promises to capture your imagination. If you have any worries about whether Istanbul is safe to visit , we’ve got this covered for you too. On the whole, though, Istanbul is a terrific holiday destination for all, add more to your adventures as you work your way through these best places to visit in Istanbul.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Hi Nina, Thanks for the tips. I wrote down almost every place you said to visit! The organization of your page is really great. I am planning a big trip for myself in a few years. Maybe I won’t be able to wait! It is okay to reply, but it is not okay to place me on any mailing list.

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Istanbul Itinerary: 3, 4, 5, or 7 Day Options

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Istanbul is a buzzing city with so much to see and do. As the once ancient capital of the Roman Empire, Constantinople, and the border between two continents, Europe and Asia, it’s a melting pot of history and diverse culture that cannot be found anywhere else on this planet.

While Istanbul is often visited as a stopover destination, being the largest transit hub in the world, anyone who just passes through this energetic city is really missing out.

From ancient landmarks to relaxing Turkish baths, serene nature, and world-class museums, there are tons of exciting attractions you could add to your Istanbul itinerary.

Whether you plan to stay for 3, 4, 5, or 7 days, these Istanbul itineraries will take you around some of the best sites in the city and tell you the best order in which to see them.

Planning a trip to Istanbul last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Istanbul:

• Airport Shuttle From Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gocken International Airport (SAW) (Super affordable!)

Here are our recommended tours in Istanbul:

• Luxury Bosphorus Cruise At Sunset (A must-do In Istanbul)
• Whirling Dervishes Show (Unique experience!)
• Historical Turkish Bath Experience
• Istanbul Food And Culture Tour

Here are our recommended places to stay in Istanbul:

• Magnuara Palace Hotel (Gorgeous hotel in the historic centre!)
• Pera Palace Hotel
• Cheers Hostel (Budget hostel near the Blue Mosque!)

How many days is sufficient in Istanbul?

This is the age-old question we get asked the most. The amount of time you spend in Istanbul is usually dictated by how much time you have to spare. 

You could easily spend a week here and not get bored. We even spent two weeks there and didn’t run out of things to do.

We would say the optimal amount of time to spend in Istanbul is between three and five days. You could see all the highlights in three days, but if you have more time on your side, allow an extra couple of days for relaxation and to soak in the culture of the city.

After all, you don’t want to spend your time rushing from place to place and not take in the atmosphere. If you have time on your side, take it slow, don’t rush, and spend some time wandering the streets and take it all in.

📚 Read More: A Complete Istanbul, Cappadocia and Pamukkale Itinerary!

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 3 Days

Most people visiting Istanbul only have a few days before they embark on a greater Turkey itinerary. After all, 3 days is the optimal amount of time to spend in the city.

Below is an Istanbul itinerary for 3 days, which takes you to all the top attractions and iconic landmarks in the city.

Day 1: Sultanahmet

Our itinerary begins in the enchanting city of Istanbul. This once capital of the Roman and Ottoman Empire, named then as Constantinople, is brimming with history and culture. It’s also the only city in the world to span two continents; Europe and Asia.

On the first day of your visit to Istanbul, you’re going to want to explore the neighborhood of Sultanahmet . This is where you’ll find the most iconic landmarks in the city, including the Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern.

This day will do a lot of walking but it’s all within the same area, so you won’t need to travel far today, you’re going to see exactly why Istanbul is a city worth visiting .

Stop 1: The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is the most beautiful work of architecture in Istanbul, so it makes sense to visit this attraction first. It was built between 1609- 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I. It became famous for its hand-painted blue tiles that you can see inside.

The mosque features more than 200 stained glass windows, as well as a stunning carved marble mihrab that’s worth checking out. It’s also the resting place of Sultan Ahmed I.

The Blue Mosque has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 and is one of Turkey’s most famous sites.

Stop 2: Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is just across the park from the Blue Mosque and is another one of the most important mosques in Turkey. It was built in 537 by the Roman Emperor Justinian. It was originally used as a cathedral for Constantinople, where it remained the largest Christian church in the Eastern Roman Empire for over 1000 years ago.

After Constantinople was seized by the Ottoman Empire, it was converted into a mosque. It was a museum for a short time between 1935-2000 but was converted back into a mosque. It has some of the most stunning architecture, mosaics, and artistic coverings of all the mosques in the city.

Stop 3: Topkapi Palace

Around the corner from the Hagia Sophie is the Topkapi Palace. The palace was the former home of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Today, it is a large museum, showcasing artifacts from the Ottoman era. Not all rooms are open to the public, but the most beautiful ones are. The Ottoman Imperial Harem and the treasury are the main reasons to visit this palace in Istanbul .

The Topkapi Palace was also declared a UNESCO site in 1985 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Stop 4: Basilica Cistern

During the Roman Empire, the Romans built several cisterns under the city as a water filtration system for the city’s palaces. The largest and best-preserved cistern in the city is the Basilica Cistern.

It is just 150 meters away from the Hagia Sophia, so it makes sense to see this historical landmark on the same day.

Stop 5: Istanbul Archeological Museums

The Istanbul Archeological Museums is a collection of three museums in the Sultanahmet district. They are made up of the Archeology Museum, The Ancient Orient Artifacts Museum, and the Tile Museum (Tile Kiosk).

They contain historic relics dating back to the early Ottoman period after it captured Constantinople from the Roman Empire.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Alexander Sarcophagus, which is the tomb of Alexander the Great, found in the Archeology Museum, and the Egyptian Grave with two coffins in the Ancient Orient Artifacts museum and the geometric tiles of the Tile Kiosk, one of the oldest buildings in the city.

Stop 6: Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

Another one of the major landmarks in Istanbul is the Grand Bazaar. It is the largest and oldest covered market in the world, with 61 streets and over 4,000 shops. It began operating in 1455 after the Ottomans captured Constantinople.

The vibrant Grand Bazaar is the best place to pick up Turkish souvenirs , from Turkish delights, Turkish lamps, rugs, towels, and clothes.

Around the corner from Grand Bazaar is the Spice Bazaar. This is another souk market where you can shop for various teas and spices. The spices are said to help with certain medical conditions, from diabetes control to weight loss, and mood enhancers.

Stop 6: Evening Turkish Hamam

After all this walking around, you’re going to want to relax a little. We recommend finishing off the day in a Turkish Hamam, which is similar to a Roman Bath. It’s not just a public bathing space, but a spa where you can get massages and beauty treatments.

Located next to the Hagia Sophia is the Hurrem Sultan Hamam, which was built in the 16th century. It’s a little pricey, but if you’re going to enjoy a Turkish bath , you might as well go to an authentic one!

Day 2: Istanbul: Taksim

On the second day, we’re going to cross the Galata Bridge and explore the Kabataş neighborhood. This is still part of Europe, but also features many iconic attractions that should not be missed.

Stop 1: Galata Bridge

We’ll begin at Galata Bridge, a 19th-century bridge that crosses Istanbul’s Golden Horn channel. The bridge is famous because of the fishermen who cast their lines here, attracting hundreds of seagulls.

The bridge has two parts, the top part is where the cars cross the bridge and also where you’ll find the fishermen, and along the bottom part you’ll find many restaurants serving fresh seafood meals.

Stop 2: Galata Tower

Next, we’ll visit the iconic Galata Tower. By now you have probably noticed the tower in the skyline, given that it is the city’s watch tower.

It was built as a part of the Walls of Galata in 1348 by Roman Empire. The Galata Tower has had a tumultuous past, having caught fire in 1794 and 1831. It was also badly damaged in a storm in 1875.

The tower was renovated in the 1960s to look like the original but using concrete instead of wood. You can climb to the top of the tower and witness 360-degree panoramic views of the city. There is also a museum and exhibition hall in the tower.

Stop 3: Istiklal Street

Istiklal Street is the most famous street in Istanbul and is where you’ll find a blend of historic and modern. It was historically known as Grand Avenue of Pera, and is a pedestrian street made famous for its red tram that rides from one end to the other.

There are many high-street brands setting up shops here in the old buildings that were once apartments for the Romans. It’s a great place to pick up some street food or find a traditional Turkish restaurant down one of the side streets.

If you’re into nightlife, you’ll find vibrant bars in this area. There are also many things to do on Istiklal Street , including visiting some of the top museums in the city.

Stop 4: Pera Museum

The Pera Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It was established in 2005 and is home to a large selection of iconic works from renowned Turkish artists such as Osman Hamdi Bey, Cihat Burak, and Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu, as well as European artists such as Jean-Léon Gérôme and Jean-Baptiste van Mour.

The museum is a cutting-edge cultural space spanning over 5 floors and provides a fantastic space where history and art collide.

Pera has served as a hub for creative expression since it first opened its doors. Amongst its many fascinating collections, there is an art gallery hosting diverse works from across Turkey’s dynamic cultural heritage. Notable pieces include Orientalist paintings and rare photography pieces that explore the late 18th century through to modern-day times.

Stop 5: Bosphorus Cruise

If your legs are a little tired from all this walking, then a Bosphorus cruise is a great way to enjoy an afternoon or early evening.

The cruise takes you through Istanbul’s Golden Horn and out into the Bosphorus. It gives you a unique perspective of the city from the water, and it’s also the best way to see the palaces in Istanbul. Many of the palaces were built next to the water, and their beautiful decoration and architecture are best seen from the water.

You will see boats lined up on the waterfront in Eminönü, and there are plenty of cruises to choose from. They are all pretty much the same, but you do need to book your ticket in advance.

You can either head to the harbor early in the morning and book your ticket, or you can book your ticket online.

Day 3: The Asian Side

On the third day in Istanbul, you’re going to explore the Asian side. We’ll be visiting the largest mosque in Istanbul, the hip and vibrant area of Moda, and tasting delicious Istanbul street food .

Stop 1: Çamlıca Mosque

The first stop is Çamlıca Mosque, located at the top of Çamlıca Hill. To get here, you must first take the metro to Üsküdar and then change to the metro to Kısıklı. From here, you simply walk up the hill.

The Camlica Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul and measures at 72 m (236 ft). The six minarets measure even higher to 107.1 m (351 ft). This stunning mosque is a sprawling complex large enough to house 63,000 worshipers at one time.

There’s also an art gallery, library, and conference hall. It was designed by two female architects, Bahar Mızrak and Hayriye Gül Totu, and was said to have cost $110 million USD to make.

Stop 2: Kadikoy

After spending time admiring the mosque, head over to the area of Kadikoy, one of the biggest attractions in Istanbul’s Anatolian side . Here you’ll find bustling markets and fishermen on the waterfront. This is the perfect place to sample some street food. We highly recommend the balık ekmek (fish sandwich).

Stop 3: Moda

After wandering the neighborhood of Kadikoy, head further south to Moda. This is a hipster neighborhood with street art, boutique stores, cool coffee shops, and a relaxing park.

Stop 4: Whirling Dervishes Show

If you went for an afternoon Bosphorus cruise, then you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy a whirling dervishes show in the evening. This is a traditional Turkish dance where dancers look as though they are floating across the floor.

As well as being a dance, it’s an active meditation exercise, which originated from the Sufi tribes in the 13th century. This is one of our favorite things to do in Istanbul at night .

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 4 Days

If you have an extra day to spend, you might want to spend it doing something more relaxing. Not many people know this, but Istanbul is surrounded by serene nature, and you don’t have to go far to find it.

In our Istanbul 4 day itinerary, we would suggest following the itinerary for 3 days, and on the fourth day, visit the Princes Islands…

Day 4: Princes Islands

On the fourth day, you’ll need to allow a full day to explore the Princes Islands , or Adalar as they are referred to in Turkish. There are nine islands in total, but only four are inhabited. Each island was once used as an exile home for the rich, famous and powerful, including members of the royal family (hence the name, Princes Islands).

There are no cars on the islands and they can only be explored on foot or by bike. You will notice several examples of luxurious, stunning architecture and 19th-century mansions as you explore each of the islands.

To get to these unique islands in Turkey , you must take a ferry from Kabatas or Kadikoy. The ferry stops at Kınalıada, Burgazadası, Heybeliada, and finally Büyükada, or “Big Island” as it’s often referred to.

It takes 75 minutes to reach the last island, Buyukada, and ferries operate every hour – this gives you an hour to explore each island, so you need to plan your trip accordingly.

You may wish to pick two out of the four islands we mention below if you want a more leisurely day.

Be sure to check out the ferry times here .

Stop 1: Kınalıada, Princes Islands

The first stop is Kınalıada, the smallest island in the Princes Island archipelago. It’s the nearest island to mainland Istanbul and its history dates back to the ancient Greeks.

The name Kinaliada means “Henna Island” in Turkish, and it is so named because of the red-color land you see here. This is made by iron and copper deposits which were once mined here.

The first settlers on the island were the Greeks, who used the island as a place of exile from the Byzantine rulers. The most famous exile to live here was Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, who lived at the Monastery of the Transfiguration on Hristo Peak.

It won’t take you long to explore the small village on the island. Make sure to check out the former Greek Orthodox monastery, the Monastery of Christ, and wander along the small streets to check out the unique architecture. The old fire station and school are particularly beautiful.

After an hour, make your way back to the ferry pier to go on to the next island.

Stop 2: Burgazadası, Princes Islands

Burgazada, or Burgaz Adası, is the third largest in the group and was also an exile settlement for the Greeks. It was once called Antigoni, after Antigonus I Monophthalmus, father of one of the successors of Alexander the Great.

Antigoni built a fort on the island, which you can still see today. The island is small and has one single hill, so you can easily see all the main attractions in an hour.

Be sure to check out the Spanudis Mansion, which was the home to the famous Turkish short-story writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık. Then there is The Church of Iohannes Prodromos which was built in 1899. It was built on the site that was once a prison for St Methodius the Confessor, who was exiled here.

There are also a few monasteries to see, the Monastery of Hagios Georgios Garipi which was a refuge for White Russians fleeing the Russian Revolution, and the Monastery of the Transfiguration, which dates back to the Byzantine era.

Stop 3: Heybeliada, Princes Islands

The second largest island is Heybeliada, which was once used by the Turkish Navy. Each year, the island holds a few small open-air concerts in the summer, which attracts many visitors to the island.

Make sure to check out the Naval High School, which was founded in 1773 and has stunning architecture. It’s also the home of the only remaining Byzantine church on the island,  Kamariotissa , as well as the last church to be built before the conquest of Constantinople.

The grounds are where you’ll find the grave of Edward Barton, who was the second English Ambassador for Elizabeth I of England, who was sent to Constantinople and spent his last days on Heybeliada trying to escape the plague.

As with all the other islands, Heybeliada also has a monastery, named Hagios Georgios tou Kremnou, which was built in the 16th century. There are also the ruins of the Hagios Spyridon monastery which was built in the 19th century.

You can also visit the house of the second President of Turkey, Mavromatakis Köşkü, which is a museum, as well as several other beautiful 19th century mansions.

Stop 4: Büyükada, Princes Islands

The last island is the biggest island, Buyukada. If you only have time for one, make sure this is it. You can see many of the island’s notable landmarks, including the Merkez Eczanesi, a pharmacy from 1870, and the ruins of a villa where Trotsky lived during 1929-1933 on Hamlaci Street 4.

Since this island is much bigger than the rest, we recommend you rent a bike and cycle around the island, taking in the quietness and beauty of the island. See the Greek Orthodox Church, St. George Church, which sits on the highest point of the island with amazing views of the city.

Other notable landmarks on the island are the former Greek Orphanage, which was the largest wooden house in Europe.

You can also find a beach for swimming and relaxing on, as well as a huge green park. You could easily spend more than an hour here. Be sure to stay for sunset and try one of the top-rated restaurants on the waterfront.

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 5 Days

For those blessed with five full days in the city, you might be wanting to see more off-the-beaten-path places in Istanbul. On our fifth day, we are going to explore the Fener district.

This is home to Balat, the Jewish district of Istanbul. Here you get to see the diverse cultures of Istanbul and see a unique side of the city in its architecture, history, and general way of life.

If you’re looking for a 5 day Istanbul itinerary, we suggest following the itinerary above and adding the following stops on your fifth day…

Day 5: Fener District

The Fener District is where you’ll find the remnants of Istanbul’s Jewish Population. In the late 15th century, Sultan Bayezid II offered citizenship to the Jews fleeing the Inquisition in Spain and Africa, and most of the immigrants ended up here.

The Fener District is part of the  UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Areas of Istanbul . Fener has become a melting pot of culture, with ethnic minorities from places like Armenia, Bulgaria, and more.

The neighborhood also has a number of charming coffee shops and restaurants, as well as art galleries and boutique stores.

Stop 1: Balat District

Balat is the most famous neighborhood in Fener. It’s known for its colorful, narrow wooden houses and cobbled streets. Kiremit Caddesi (Kiremit Street), is the most famous place to find these buildings.

These pastel-colored buildings are some of the  most beautiful buildings in Istanbul . But this is not the only reason to visit Balat .

Nestled among the historic buildings and winding streets, are unique, cozy cafes, some of which are an artist’s playground, such as İncir Ağacı Kahvesi which is known for its umbrella installation and colorful huts where you can sip your coffee in.

You can also find many antique shops and vintage shops, if you enjoy thrift shopping. Be sure to check out the Phanar Greek Orthodox College, which you won’t miss as it’s a striking red building ontop of the hill.

Stop 2: Kariye Mosque

The Kariye Mosque, or The Chora Church as it’s also known, is one of the most historically significant mosques in Istanbul. It was built as a Greek Orthodox Church in the 4th century during the reign of Constantine the Great, at the time when the walls of Constantinople were being built.

It was part of a monastery complex outside the walls of the city and served as an Orthodox church until it was converted to a mosque in the 15th century by Ottoman Turks.

What makes this church unique is that it still has stunning mosaics depicting biblical stories and figures, some of which date back to the 14th century. It also hosts a number of incredible frescoes that showcase Ottoman artistry and engineering prowess.

The Kariye Mosque has been under renovation since 2005 and there has been no end date announced at present. We will update this guide as soon as we know of a re-opening date, and this is one site in Istanbul not to be missed.

Stop 3: The Walls of Constantinople

Have you ever wondered if the walls of Constantinople still stand? The answer is yes, but only in some areas. You can see the remains of the walls of Constantinople on Hoca Çakır Cd, this is where they are the most well-preserved.

The walls were built in the 4th century and were used as a defense against oncoming invasions, and they were withheld for many centuries before the great Mahmet II finally seized the city in 1453.

You can walk along the walls in some areas as well, which offer an incredible view of the Marmara Sea and the Golden Horn.

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 7 Days

For those who have a full week at their disposal, you have time to truly experience the diversity and uniqueness of the city, but now you might be after a bit of adventure.

So on our sixth and seventh day, we plan to take you to the theme parks and on a day trip outside the city.

If you’re looking for a 7 day Istanbul itinerary, follow the itineraries above and add the following stops to day 6 and 7…

Day 6: Theme Park Day

Istanbul is also home to several exciting theme parks. If you are travelling with kids, you might want to have a theme park day!

Stop 1: Vialand Theme Park

If you only have time for one park, it should be Vialand. There is so much to see and do here, you should spend a full day here.

Vialand Theme Park has something for everyone – from its rollercoaster rides and other thrilling attractions such as Parkour land, mall, and Disney-inspired palace, to its interactive theaters and kid-friendly carnival games.

It opened in 2013 and was the first shopping, entertainment, and living complex in the world that combines a Theme Park and a shopping mall.

The park is spread over a huge 600,000 meters squared and features the world’s 4th biggest rollercoaster, the Nefeskesen, which accelerates to 110 kilometers in just 3 seconds. Don’t miss the “Justice Tower”, which descends from 50 meters, as well as the 7-D movie theatre.

If you’re looking for thrills and entertainment, Vialand has something for even the pickiest traveler!

Stop 2: LEGOLAND

If you have time for another theme park, then we recommend LEGOLAND. You can get a taxi here from Vialand and be here within less than 15 minutes.

Legoland is the perfect place for both grown-ups and children looking for an unforgettable day out. There’s so much to explore – from massive models, three incredible rides, and interactive activities, to 10 LEgo-build areas and Lego workshops.

Open since 2015, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey within a few years. It not only offers lots of fun to kids but adults can also enjoy themselves playing with large building sets made from genuine Lego bricks.

No matter how old you are, you’ll be sure to find the perfect way to have some incredible fun at Legoland.

Day 7: Day Trip to the City of Troy (Çanakkale)

By now you must be feeling you’ve seen a lot of Istanbul and would like to explore some other parts of Turkey. Located four hours away by car is the ancient city of Canakkale, which is most famous for being where the ancient city of Troy once was.

Stop 1: Troy National Park

Perhaps the most famous thing about Çanakkale is the nearby ancient ruins of Troy, located in the Historic Troy National Park, which can be visited by guided tours or independently.

This legendary city served as an important historical battleground between Greeks and Trojans in the 8th century BC. Visitors can explore the remains of Troy or take a tour through its open-air museum featuring archaeological finds from Hellenistic and Roman eras. 

According to archaeologists, the City of Troy is only one of nine cities that was built on top of each other, so the findings you see here are that of several civilizations. The oldest city is said to have dated back to 3000 BC.

As well as being historical, it’s also an area of outstanding natural beauty, so take a moment to look out for several species of bird and wildlife that make this park their home.

Stop 2: Cimenlik Castle

The city of Çanakkale is also worth stopping off at, since it has some notable historical attractions, such as the Cimenlik Castle.

It was built in 1462 by Mehmet the Conqueror to protect the Ottoman Empire in the Dardanelles. Just right across the Dardanelles, visitors will also find Kilitbahir Castle, another fortress built around the same time.

Both of these castles are now museums and offer spectacular sea views.

Stop 3: Troy Horse

Many have heard the legend of the Fall of Troy , which has been passed down through Greek mythology for centuries. The story was also featured in Homer’s  Iliad .

If you don’t know the story, the Trojan War  went on for years, in which the Greeks tried to break through the walls of the City of Troy but were unable to breach them.

To trick the Romans on the other side, they built a wooden trojan horse and gave it to them as a gift. Little did the Romans know, the Greeks had waited inside the horse until nightfall, and then attacked the Romans as they slept. And thus the war was won.

To remember the story, head to the waterfront of Canakkale, where you can see the huge steel and fiberglass statue of the horse that was used in the 2004 movie “Troy.”

Extend to 10 Days Istanbul Itinerary

If you have fallen in love with the city and want to spend more time here, you could easily extend it to 10 or more days. 

If you’re looking for some ideas for how to spend 10 days, we recommend you fill your time taking some day trips to the cities near Istanbul . 

Bursa, Kumköy, or Şile are three cities we would recommend adding to your Istanbul itinerary. If you plan your visit right, you could even spend time at the beach in Şile if beaches are your thing.

There are also some beaches closer to Istanbul, which would be the perfect place to spend your days in the summer. 

Aside from that, I would spend time wandering the city, shopping for souvenirs, stopping off at traditional cafes , and gorging on street food. 

Explore some of the parks in Istanbul or check out the museums . There is so much to see and do, we know you’ll find something fun to fill in your time on a 10 day Istanbul trip.

Getting Around The City

Istanbul is a very walkable city, as long as you have some comfortable shoes on. We have purposely organized the stops in our itineraries to allow you to be able to walk from place to place, without the need for public transportation.

However, sometimes taking public transportation is necessary, especially if you plan to visit the theme parks or head over to the Fener district.

We have written a complete guide on public transportation in Istanbul for those who are visiting for the first time. Read about how to get around Istanbul here .

Tips for Visiting Istanbul

To help you have the best trip to Istanbul, here are a few words of advice:

• Go slow and don’t try to pack it all in. I know these itineraries are jam-packed, but you’re going to exhaust yourself trying to see every museum and mosque. Take time to just wander the streets and soak in the atmosphere as well.
• Get the Istanbul E-Pass, this is a tourist pass that gives you free entrance to many of the city’s top attractions. You can save up to 70% by using this card.
• Download Offline Google Maps or MapsMe, so you don’t need to rely on data.
• Pick up a Turkish sim card, but not from the airport. Turkcell is our preferred operator, but you can read more about it here.
• Dress modestly . This is a Muslim country and even though it’s hot, respectful attire should be worn at all time. Leave the hot pants at home, and bring light clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
• Bring a headscarf if you’re a woman. You will need to wear one when entering the mosques.
• Take out cash, as many places don’t accept credit cards.

Final Thoughts on Istanbul Itinerary

So there you have it, this is how you can spend your days in Istanbul, and as you can see, there is a LOT to see and do.

No matter how many days you plan to spend in Istanbul, we know you will have a great trip.

Do you have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

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Things To Do In Istanbul

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1. Hagia Sophia

0 km from city center 1 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Arguably the most spectacular example of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia has been a cathedral, a mosque, and today is a museum and one of Istanbul's biggest attractions. Explore its vast interior, admiring the breathtaking domed ceiling, intricate frescoes, and impressive marble designs. All visitors (non-Muslims included) are allowed to enter. Guided tour is available.

2. Galata Tower

2 km from city center 2 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Galata Tower is one of the most popular attractions of not just Istanbul but Turkey itself. Also known as Galata Kulesi in Turkish, it makes its place in the skyline of Istanbul as one of the oldest and tallest towers in the city. A restaurant and a cafe sit on the top floors of the building from where you can enjoy your meal with a spectacular view of the city.

3. Cruise the Bosphorus

15 km from city center 3 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Bosphorus Strait is the dividing waterway between Europe and Asia. With Europe on one side and Asia on the other, it makes for an ideal cruise for some scenic views of most of Istanbul's landmarks. The Hagia Sofia and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque are also visible from the cruise.

4. Shopping at Grand Bazaar

1 km from city center 4 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is one of the oldest and largest markets in the world. The Bazaar encompasses 64 streets, 4000 shops, restaurants, and banks, making it almost its own little city. It is often considered to be among the very first shopping malls in the world. It can be reached through the Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı tram station.

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0 km from city center 5 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Sultanahmet Square, also known as the Hippodrome, is the centrepiece of Istanbul's Historical Peninsula. It is located a few minutes' walk away from the Sultanahmet tram station. It leads to the city's most fantastic attractions, including the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia and Ibrahim Pasa Palace. Sultanahmet Square is also lined with hotels, restaurants and other places of accommodation and leisure.

6. Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)

0 km from city center 6 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

This huge and beautiful Sultan Ahman Mosque sits right opposite the Hagia Sofia and houses hundreds of thousands of detailed decorations. It is famous for its blue interiors and is also known as the Blue Mosque. It is Istanbul's most picturesque building, complemented by the breathtaking architecture inside.

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7. Topkapi Palace

1 km from city center 7 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Topkapi Palace is a majestic building which served as the main residence of the Ottoman emperors for nearly 400 years. Today it serves as one of the most important museums in Istanbul. It contains some of the rarest items in the world. Though the complex has several hundred rooms, halls and chambers, only the most significant of them are open to the public

8. Dolmabahe Palace

4 km from city center 8 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Dolmabahce Palace was the main residence of operation for the Ottomans after the Topkapi. It is built along the Bosphorus Strait and is another stunning imperial structure which today serves as a major tourist attraction. It is home to the largest collection of Bohemian and Baccarat crystal chandeliers in the world.

9. Istanbul Spice Bazaar

1 km from city center 9 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Misir Carsisi, or the Spice Bazaar, is one of the largest markets in Istanbul, a close second to the Grand Bazaar. It offers a wide array of rich and colourful flavours with more than 85 shops selling Turkish delights, sweets, herbs and spice mixes along with a blend of covered and open streets.

10. Explore Basilica Cistern

0 km from city center 10 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Basilica Cistern is the largest cistern in the city of Istanbul, built underneath the Stoa Basilica. It has hundreds of decorated columns and is a simply breathtaking piece of architecture. There is only a few feet of water in the cistern today, above which platforms are built for people to tour it.

11. Try Turkish Street Food

11 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Trying Turkish street food in Istanbul is a quintessential and delightful experience for tourists. Indulge in iconic street foods like simit, doner kebab, gözleme, kokoreç and traditional Turkish desserts such as baklava or künefe. Visit bustling markets like the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar, where you can find a plethora of street food stalls. You can also join a guided food tour.

12. See the Tulips at Gulhane Park

1 km from city center 12 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Gulhane Park is one of the biggest and most beautiful parks in Istanbul, popular among locals for picnics and recreation. It's especially known for its tulips and attracts many during the Istanbul Tulip Festival.

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13. Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam

0 km from city center 13 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

One of the most notable historical sites in Istanbul, the Hurrem Sultan Hamam, is a Turkish bath located at the heart of the old city of Sultanahmet. It offers the best spot for a relaxing and rejuvenating afternoon with its many hammam and massage packages under the expert assistance of the Hammam ladies. A basic 30-minutes Hamam treatment starts at 55 Euros and goes up to 185 Euros with more advanced packages.

14. Taste Turkish Coffee

14 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Enjoying Turkish coffee in Istanbul is more than just a drink; it's a cultural ritual and a delightful experience. Visit traditional cafes or historic places like the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar, where you can savor Turkish coffee in an authentic setting filled with cultural ambiance. The most popular kind of Turkish coffee is ibrik or cezve coffee.

15. Suleymaniye Mosque

1 km from city center 15 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Suleymaniye Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul. It took 7 years to build till 1557 and is an iconic landmark of the city. The interiors of the building are simple yet breathtaking.

16. Day Trip to Princes' Islands

17 km from city center 16 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Princes' Islands, or Adalar in Turkish, are a cluster of nine small islands in the Sea of Marmara, off the coast of Istanbul. Of the nine islands, Büyükada (Big Island) and Heybeliada (Saddlebag Island) are the most popular for visitors. Ferries depart regularly from Istanbul's Kabataş or Eminönü ports to the Princes' Islands, with Büyükada being the first stop and Heybeliada the second.

17. Whirling Dervishes Ceremony at Galata Mevlevi House

2 km from city center 17 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Located in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, the Galata Mevlevi House is a former dervish tekke (lodge). It has been converted into a museum on the Mevlevi Sufi Islam sect and is home to a wide variety of artefacts. One can witness dervishes “whirling here” as a form of devotion to God; Galata Mevlevi House is one of the only places in the city where one can see them.

18. Enjoy The Nightlife

18 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Experiencing the nightlife in Istanbul is a vibrant and diverse adventure. Explore Istikal Avenue filled with bars, clubs, restaurants, and live music venues or embrace the Turkish meyhane culture by visiting traditional taverns. You can visit one of the rooftop bars for breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline, take a Bosphorus night cruise, and attend cultural performances such as Turkish folk dances, belly dancing shows, or Sufi music concerts.

19. Istanbul Archaeology Museums

0 km from city center 19 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Istanbul Archaeology Museums is an incredible museum complex of 3 buildings that houses archaeological collections of more than 1 million items. It contains collections of items dating back thousands of years from ancient Mesopotamia, pre-Islamic Egypt and the Arabian Peninsula.

20. Discover Restaurants & Cafes at Cicek Pasaji

2 km from city center 20 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Cicek Pasaji, also known as Flower Passage, is a historic passageway and a covered arcade on İstiklal Avenue in the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul. It is primarily visited for its many restaurants, cafes and wine houses and is also well-known for its lively nightlife. Some of its popular restaurants include Sevic Restaurant, Mahzen Restaurant, and Kimene Restaurant.

21. Beylerbeyi Palace

6 km from city center 21 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Beylerbeyi Palace is a 19th-century Imperial Ottoman summer residence situated in the Üsküdar district of Istanbul, Turkey, that has now been converted into a museum. The palace is an impressive edifice constructed using white marble built in the Second Empire style of architecture.

22. Golden Ferry to Chora Museum

4 km from city center 22 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Chora Museum, also known as Kariye Museum, is popular as one of the most beautiful Byzantine churches of the 16th-century. For many, the importance of the Chora Museum is as great as Hagia Sophia. The best way to get to this part of town is to catch the Golden Horn ferry from Karaköy.

23. Miniaturk

6 km from city center 23 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Miniaturk is a fascinating miniature model park of Turkish buildings. It is one of the largest such parks in the world. It is a representation of some of Turkey's most important buildings and has a total of 122 models, on a 1:25 scale.

24. Stroll Through Istiklal Avenue

3 km from city center 24 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Isktiklal Caddessi or Istiklal Avenue is the busiest street in Istanbul filled with a long stretch of cafes, restaurants, shopping centres, bars, cinemas and galleries. Estimated to have been visited by over 3 million people on the weekends, it is the best way to experience the vibrant, hustling side of the city.

25. Observation Deck at Camlica Tower

7 km from city center 25 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Camlica Tower is a telecommunications tower located in the Üsküdar district of Istanbul. Inaugurated in May 2021, it is the tallest structure in Istanbul as well as in Europe. The skyscraper has 49 storeys with an observation deck, a small café and a restaurant.

26. Rustem Pasha Mosque

1 km from city center 26 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

An archetype of the Ottoman Mosque, Rustem Pasha Mosque is located close to the Spice Bazaar in the Tahtakale neighbourhood of Fatih district. This Ottoman mosque is another of the stunning works of imperial Mimar Sinan, with various intricate details and designs all over.

27. Ortakoy Mosque

6 km from city center 27 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Ortakoy Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most beautiful mosques and one of the most popular ones in the Bosphorus. Built sometime in the mid-19th-century, it is situated in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul and is officially called the Büyük Mecidiye Camii. The mosque is best seen from the Bosphorus Cruise which takes tourists from the Asian to the European side of Istanbul on a ferry boat.

28. Vialand Theme Park

9 km from city center 28 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Vialand, also known as Isfanbul Theme Park, is Turkey’s first mega theme park with exciting rides and shopping outlets. Located in the Eyüp district, it sprawls across 600 square metres and houses Nefeskesen, the 4th biggest rollercoaster in the world. It also houses an exhibition centre, a shopping complex, eateries and a luxury hotel.

29. Boat Tour to Maiden's Tower

13 km from city center 29 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Maiden’s Tower is an iconic tower and landmark situated on a small islet off the coast of Üsküdar. Also known as Leander’s Tower, it houses a museum, a cafe and a restaurant offering scenic views of the Bosphorus. It is easily accessible via a ferry or boat.

30. Take Photographs at Column of Constantine

1 km from city center 30 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Column of Constantine or Çemberlitaş is a 35m tall honorific column in Istanbul, Turkey that was built by the Roman emperor Constantine. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Istanbul’s oldest surviving monuments, it is set in the centre of what was formerly the Forum of Constantine. It is one of the only edifices here that is representative of Roman architecture. It also makes for an ideal photography spot.

31. Eyüp Sultan Mosque

6 km from city center 31 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Eyüp Sultan Camii or Eyüp Sultan Mosque in Istanbul’s Eyüp district is the oldest and holiest mosque in Turkey. It is known for its two half domes and elegant interiors which feature chandeliers. Within the mosque complex is a mausoleum where Prophet Muhammad’s standard-bearer and friend Abu Ayyub al-Ansari is believed to have been buried. Large crowds also visit the mosque for the Eyüp Cemetery which is right up the hill.

32. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

0 km from city center 32 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art is an art museum situated in the Fatih district’s Sultanahmet Square. Located in the former palace of Pargalı Ibrahim Pasha, it is filled with collections of manuscripts and inscriptions in calligraphy, Islamic paintings, traditional handwoven and detailed fabrics, and ancient artefacts. It is also famous for the best rug collection in the world, with some being rare 13th-century Seljuk carpets.

33. Uskudar

7 km from city center 33 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Üsküdar is a region on the Asian side of the city with less concrete and more nature. With the small empty streets, beautiful parks, less crowded markets and a collection of history, Üsküdar is the place for all the peace and nature lovers.

34. Little Hagia Sophia

1 km from city center 34 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Little Hagia Sophia mosque is a former Greek Orthodox Church located between the Cankurtaran and Kadırga districts, in the west of the Sultanahmet neighbourhood in Istanbul. It is one of the original buildings in Istanbul, belonging to the early Byzantine period, known for its stunning architecture. The beautiful marble columns on the ground floor and the gallery on the second floor are a must-see.

35. Yedikule Fortress

5 km from city center 35 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Also called Fortress of the Seven Towers and the Dungeons of the Seven Towers, Yedikule Fortress is one of the oldest forts of Istanbul. Located 3 miles south-west from Sultanahmet, it is quite popular among tourists for its dreadful history and fantastic views.

36. Belgrad Forest

20 km from city center 36 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Belgrad Forest is one of the greenest spaces in Istanbul situated on the easternmost point of the Thracian Peninsula. Open to the public, it is known for its picnic spots, diverse flora and fauna and also for its 9 nature parks including the Bentler Nature Park, Irmak Nature Park and Ayvat Bendi Nature Park. There is a 6 km walking trail within the forest which is surrounded by a serene lake that is ideal for walking, jogging and hiking.

37. Istanbul Modern Art Museum

2 km from city center 37 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Istanbul Modern Art Museum, commonly known as just Istanbul Museum, is temporarily located in the Beyoǧlu district while the new building in Karaköy undergoes construction. It is an artist’s paradise and Turkey's first modern and contemporary art museum.

38. Fatih Mosque

3 km from city center 38 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Fatih Mosque is an Ottoman inspired mosque in Istanbul with one of the most beautiful inner courtyards in the city. Located in Fatih, on Fevzipaşa Avenue, the mosque complex houses a hospice and the tombs of Mehmet II and his wife Gulbahar. On Wednesday, the Fatih Mosque hosts the largest street market in Istanbul (Fatih Pazarı) selling food, clothing as well as household goods.

39. Pera Museum

3 km from city center 39 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Pera Museum is w well-known private art museum located in Beyoğlu district’s Tepebaşı quarter in Istanbul, Turkey, the Pera Museum. It was founded by the Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation and is most popular for its focus on Orientalism in 19th-century art. The museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building that was once the historic Bristol hotel.

40. Emirgan Park

13 km from city center 40 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

This sprawling park of more than a 117 acres is a splendid example of the Turkish gardens from the Ottoman empire.

41. Anatolian Fortress

11 km from city center 41 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Anatolian Fortress on the Anatolian (Asian) side of the Bosporus in Istanbul, Turkey is a medieval fortress and an open-air museum. It is also known as Güzelce Hisar or the Beautacious Castle. Istanbul’s oldest surviving Turkish structure, it dates back to the 14th century and was built as a watch fort made of bricks and square-cut block stones. Although a museum, one can only visit its outer walls; the main road passes through it.

42. Obelisk of Theodosius

1 km from city center 42 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Obelisk of Theodosius is an Ancient Egyptian obelisk situated in the Hippodrome of Constantinople in Istanbul, Turkey. The structure was built by the Roman emperor Theodosius in the 4th century AD to commemorate the victory in Mesopotamia. It is made out of red granite and stands tall at a height of about 84 feet or 60.8 feet without the marble pedestal.

43. Rumeli Fortress

10 km from city center 43 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Rumeli Hisarı or the Rumeli Fortress is a medieval 15th-century fortress now converted into an open-air museum. It is located on the European banks of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, Turkey. The fort is known for its magnificent views of the Bosphorus Strait, the Sultan Mehmed Fatih Bridge and the Asian part of Istanbul.

44. Istanbul Toy Museum

8 km from city center 44 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Istanbul Toy Museum or İstanbul Oyuncak Müzesi is a toy museum located in the Kadıköy district of Istanbul, Turkey in a former historical mansion. Established in 2005 by the Turkish poet and author Sunay Akın, the museum houses over 4,000 toys from Turkey and more than 40 other countries, many of which date back to the 1700s and were bought at antique shops and auctions.

45. New Istanbul Mosque

1 km from city center 45 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The New Mosque, originally called the Valide Sultan Mosque, is an Ottoman Imperial mosque situated in the Eminönü quarter of Istanbul, Turkey, specifically on the Golden Horn. This 17th-century edifice is one of the city’s most prominent mosques, famous for its magnificent architecture. It is also known as the “bird mosque” since there are numerous birds within the complex at all times.

46. Istanbul Akvaryum

16 km from city center 46 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Istanbul Akvaryum is the biggest thematic aquarium in the world situated close to the Atatürk International Airport in Istanbul, Turkey. The aquarium houses over 1,500 land and water species and is divided into 17 themes. Some of the most popular species here include Gentoo penguins, Capybaras, Cownose rays, Musky caimans, Lemon sharks and Redbelly piranhas.

47. Kucuksu Palace

11 km from city center 47 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Kucuksu Palace is a former summer pavilion turned into a museum, situated in the Beykoz district of Istanbul, Turkey. Visited for its architecture and artefacts, the palace was constructed under Sultan Abd-ul-Mejid’s reign and was used by the Ottoman Sultans for short stays. The palace was built in the new-baroque style and has 2 main floors and 1 basement.

48. Cagaloglu Hamam

1 km from city center 48 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Cagaloglu Hamam is a famous historic Turkish bathhouse situated in Eminönü in Istanbul, Turkey. One of the city’s last major hamams to have been built during the Ottoman Empire, it is constructed in the Ottoman Baroque style of architecture and comprises a bathhouse for women and men. The entry to the women’s section is through a door which is on a side street called Hamam while the entry to the men’s section is from the main road.

49. Legoland Istanbul

8 km from city center 49 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Located within the Forum Istanbul Mall in Bayrampasa, the Legoland Discovery Centre is a fun and interactive entertainment park. Enjoyed most by families of children aged between 3-10 years, Legoland’s activities include rides, play zones, workshops, a LEGO 4D theatre, and more. Some other wonderful attractions are Miniland, a mini Lego city built with replicas of famous monuments of Istanbul.

50. Yoros Castle

21 km from city center 50 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Yoros Castle is a ruined fortress from Byzantine rule, located to the north of Joshua’s Hill in Istanbul. Also known as Genoese Castle, it is one of the most beautiful castles in the city. Only the exterior of the upper castle is open to the general public. Located on Macar Bay, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the conjoining point of the Marman and the Black sea from the top.

51. Nuruosmaniye Cami

1 km from city center 51 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

Nuruosmaniye Mosque is an 18th century Ottoman Mosque located close to the Grand Bazaar in the Çemberlitaş neighbourhood, Fatih district. It derives its literal name “the light of Osman” from the 174 windows adorning the mosque's interiors. It boasts of prime Ottoman Baroque architecture and stands tall with the fourth largest dome in the city and unique minarets made up of bronze instead of the usual stone.

52. Pelit Chocolate Museum

27 km from city center 52 out of 88 Things To Do in Istanbul

The Pelit Chocolate Museum in Esenyurt, Istanbul conjures images of childhood tales of Hansel and Gretel. This is the only chocolate museum in Turkey! Located near the Pelit Chocolate Factory all items on display here are created from chocolate. This includes an entire village, animals, mosaic paintings or human figures depicting a shoemaker, chestnut seller, fruit seller, and more, all made using chocolate in different forms and colors.

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Turkey

Written by Jess Lee Updated May 11, 2023

Author Jess Lee lives in Turkey and has been writing about traveling in Turkey for over a decade. She has authored several travel guidebooks to the country .

Packed to the brim with ancient monuments left over from a parade of empires, and endowed with showcase scenery that never fails to impress, Turkey is a dazzling destination that straddles Asia and Europe.

Its vibrant culture, famous food, and vast history wow all who venture here, while its glorious landscapes, from the sun-soaked Mediterranean to the mighty mountains and arid steppe, are tourist attractions in themselves.

Whether you want to lap up the Byzantine and Ottoman glories of Istanbul on a city break, laze on the beach, delve into history wandering through ruins such as Ephesus, or see some of the world's most surreal panoramas in Pamukkale and Cappadocia, this country offers visitors a wide range of things to do.

For ideas on the best places to visit read our list of the top tourist attractions in Turkey.

1. Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) Mosque

3. cappadocia, 4. topkapı palace, 5. pamukkale, 7. cruising the mediterranean, 8. mount nemrut, 9. ölüdeniz, 10. aspendos, 12. pergamum, 13. the blue mosque, 16. safranbolu, 17. the bosphorus, 18. gaziantep zeugma mosaic museum, 19. göbeklitepe, 20. sumela monastery, best time to visit turkey.

Highlight: Take in the majestic interior of one of Istanbul's most iconic buildings

Renowned as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, the spellbinding Byzantine glory of the Hagia Sophia Mosque (Aya Sofya) is not only one of the top things to do in Istanbul, but also in Turkey.

Built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 537 CE, it is renowned as the Byzantine Empire's greatest architectural achievement and has remained the world's largest church for 1,000 years.

The staggering bulk of its exterior is rimmed by the delicate minarets added after the Ottoman conquest, while the sumptuous and cavernous frescoed interior is a grand reminder of old Constantinople's might and power.

This famed monument is a must-do for every tourist visiting the country.

• Read More: Exploring Hagia Sophia Mosque: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights: Crane your neck at the Library of Celsus, hike up the cavea of the Great Theater, and stroll amid the ruins of this ancient city

Not to be missed, the mighty ruin of Ephesus is a city of colossal monuments and marble-columned roads.

One of the most complete, still-standing famed cities of antiquity in the Mediterranean region, this is the place to experience what life must have been like during the golden age of the Roman Empire.

The city's history dates back to the 10th century BCE, but the major monuments you see today all date from its Roman era when it was a thriving commercial center.

In particular, the Library of Celsus, the complex of frescoed terraced houses, and the Great Theater all point to the wealth and importance of Ephesus during the Roman period.

A sightseeing trip here will take at least half a day to cover the major highlights and longer, if you really want to explore, so make sure you plan your visit so you don't feel rushed.

• Read More: Visiting Ephesus: Attractions, Tips & Tours

Highlights: Take in panoramic views from a hot-air balloon, hike within valleys of volcanic rock, and marvel at cave-chapel Byzantine art

The surreal, swooping rock valleys of Cappadocia are every photographer's dream.

Cliff ridges and hill crests are home to rippling panoramas of wave-like rock or wacky-shaped pinnacles that have been formed by millennia of wind and water action.

And if you don't feel like hiking for the views, this is one of the world's top destinations to take a hot-air balloon ride .

Nestled in this unique lunar-like landscape are the frescoed rock-cut churches and cave-cut architecture of the Byzantine Era, when this area was home to monastic Christian communities.

In particular, the multiple cave-churches of Göreme Open-Air Museum and Ihlara Valley are home to some of the best examples of surviving mid-Byzantine-era religious art in the world.

Cappadocia's villages, half hewn into the hillsides, where travelers base themselves to explore the surrounding countryside, are also an attraction in themselves, with their boutique hotels that allow you to bed down in a cave with full contemporary comforts.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cappadocia
• Top-Rated Things to Do in Turkey

Highlights: Soak up the Ottoman finery amid the salons of the sultans

Sumptuous beyond belief, Istanbul's Topkapı Palace takes you into the fantastical, opulent world of the Sultans.

It was from here, during the 15th and 16th centuries, that the sultans of the Ottoman era carved out an empire that would extend up into Europe and down through the Middle East and into Africa.

The interiors, with their decadently exuberant tiling and lavish jeweled decor, are an unforgettable peek into the Ottoman's power base.

In particular, don't miss the Imperial Council building, where the empire's business was conducted by the Grand Vizier; the arms collection displayed in the Imperial Treasury; the world-class collection of miniature paintings; and the dazzling Harem rooms, which were designed by the famed Ottoman architect Sinan.

The surrounding public gardens were once the sole domain of the Royal Court but are now open to the public and provide a tranquil, green respite from the city streets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

Highlights : Hike up the famed white terraces, swim in the antique pool, then take in the views from the top tier of the theater's cavea

One of Turkey's most famous natural wonders, the pure white travertine terraces of Pamukkale ("Cotton Castle" in English) cascade down the slope looking like an out-of-place snowfield amid the green landscape.

Although the travertines are themselves a highlight of a Turkey trip, the vast and rambling ruins of Greco-Roman Hierapolis, an ancient spa town, lie scattered across the summit of this calcite hill.

After exploring the ancient theater, with its views across the countryside, and the remnants of the city's agora, gymnasium, necropolis, and grand gates, you can swim in the mineral-rich waters which made this ancient spa town famous, in the antique pool.

Afterward, walk down the travertine hill, wading through the pools of water in the upper terraces, to the small modern village of Pamukkale below.

For the best photographs, come at dusk when the travertines glow as the sun sinks below the horizon.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pamukkale

Highlights: Stroll the twisty lanes of the old town, sloth on the beach, or launch yourself out on history-filled trips amid the hilltop ruins of the hinterland

This bustling Mediterranean hub has something for everyone.

The two main beaches outside of town are sun-sloth heaven in summer and attract holidaymakers from across Europe. While the old town area, snug right in the center of town, with its cobblestone alleyways rimmed by creaky Ottoman-era mansions, is a wonderful place to explore.

The Antalya Museum is renowned as one of the country's best, with an astonishing collection of Hellenistic and Roman marble statuary, and there are bags of attractions outside of town for travelers who want to use Antalya as a base.

In particular, Antalya is an easy base for day trips to some of Turkey's most famous Greco-Roman ruins, including Aspendos and Perge, which are just outside the city, and the town of Side, with its glut of ruins.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Antalya

Highlight: Experience Turkey's dramatic coastline from the sea on a scenic slow-travel adventure

Turkey's Mediterranean coastline has ruins galore and many things to do, but for many people, it's all about soaking up the sun while enjoying the gorgeous coastal views.

Cruising on a yacht is the number one activity for visitors to Bodrum and Fethiye for good reason. The steep forest-clad slopes, hidden coves sporting tiny white-sand beaches, and hundreds of scattered islands are the perfect place for exploring by sea. Even diehard landlubbers will be impressed.

One of the most famous trips is known as the Blue Cruise and travels from Fethiye south down the coast until disembarking near Olympos , home to the famous natural phenomenon of the Chimaera.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bodrum

Highlight: Hike up to the summit to see the sun rise over the mountaintop ruins

The top sightseeing drawcard for eastern Turkey, Mount Nemrut's summit funerary mound is scattered with the broken remnants of once mammoth statues, which guarded it.

This weird and lonely place has to be one of Turkey's most peculiar archaeological sites. The giant stone heads of long-forgotten gods stare out from the summit, casting an eerie atmosphere over the barren mountaintop.

The summit's building works are the work of Antiochus I, ruler of the Commagene Kingdom, which lay here in the buffer region between the Roman and Parthian empires.

Antiochus I dedicated this grand funerary mound to himself as a showcase of his importance, raising a 50-meter-high artificial peak on Mount Nemrut's summit and then decorating it with statues of himself and various gods.

The most popular time to visit is at sunrise, so you can watch the statues as they loom out of the dark.

• Read More: Exploring Mount Nemrut: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights: Turkey's tandem paragliding hub, resort living, and lazy beach life

Impossibly turquoise-blue water. Check. Lush green forest tumbling down a cliff to a white-sand beach. Check. The sheltered inlet of Ölüdeniz, just a short journey from Fethiye, is Turkey's most famous beach, and with scenery that might as well have fallen off a perfect postcard, it's easy to see why its popularity hasn't waned.

If the beach gets too crowded, it's time to take to the skies and experience the stunning aerial views on a tandem paragliding dive off the summit of mighty Babadağ (Mount Baba), which rises up behind the shore.

Oh, did we mention that Ölüdeniz is one of the world's top paragliding destinations? Check.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fethiye

Highlight: Admire this monumental relic of Roman rule

Just south of the resort city of Antalya, the jaw-dropping mammoth bulk of the Roman Theater of Aspendos celebrates the pomp and ceremony of Marcus Aurelius' rule.

Considered the finest surviving example of a classical age theater still standing in the world, the highly restored, 15,000-seat theater is one of antiquity's star attractions.

Although the theater is the main reason for a visit here (and for most visitors on a half-day trip from nearby Antalya or Side, the theater is all they see) the Aspendos site offers plenty more ruins to explore.

There are remnants of an aqueduct, agora, stadium, and a Byzantine-era basilica, all scattered over the vast hillside area here surrounding the theater.

Read More: Aspendos: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights: Hike amid the Lycian ruins then relax on Turkey's longest beach

With such a long Mediterranean coastline, there's a beach for every type of sun worshipper in Turkey, but Patara is among its most famous swathes of sand.

Trailing for 18 kilometers along the shoreline, the beach offers plenty of space, so even in the height of summer, you can still find a quiet spot far away from the crowds.

Adding to the experience, just behind the sand, are the vast ruins of Ancient Patara , which include a colonnaded street, restored bouleuterion (the parliament of the city), and a theater that sat 5,000 people.

Once you've had your fill of sun, sand, and swimming, wander behind the sand dunes and explore the crumbling remnants of this once-prosperous Lycian city.

Patara is easily reached from both Kas and Fethiye.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Fethiye

Highlights: Panoramic vistas across the ruins and surrounding hills from the Acropolis and theater

Turkey has an abundance of Greco-Roman ruins, but none can be so romantically placed as ancient Pergamum in modern-day Bergama.

Once home to one of the ancient world's most important libraries (which rivaled Alexandria's library in prominence) and home to the famed medical school run by Galen, Pergamum's remaining temple remnants now preside dramatically across a hilltop.

It's an incredibly atmospheric place to explore. The Acropolis area with its theater cut into the hillside holds the most remains and offers sweeping panoramic views across the countryside.

Below, the Asklepion area is home to the ruins of the city's renowned medical center.

This is a great place to visit if you want to get a real feel for life in the Classical era.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pergamum and the North Aegean

Highlight: An opulent interior with the Ottoman era's delicately detailed blue-and-white tiles

This famous mosque (officially called the Sultanahmet Mosque), facing the Hagia Sophia Mosque across Sultanahmet Park in Istanbul, is one of Turkey's most visited monuments.

Built by Sultan Ahmed I, the mosque was designed to mimic the Hagia Sophia by the architect Sedefkar Mehmet Ağa, a disciple of the Ottoman era's most renowned architect, Sinan.

With six slender minarets and a sprawling courtyard complex, everything about the Blue Mosque is on a grand scale but it's best known for its prayer hall interior covered in tens of thousands of blue Iznik tiles (for which the mosque gained its moniker), lit by shards of light from 260 windows.

Non-worshipping visitors are welcome to visit outside of prayer times. Everyone must have knees and shoulders covered, and females must wear a headscarf.

Highlight: Strolling amid the ruins of one of the Classical world's most famous mythical cities

One of Turkey's most well-known ancient ruins, this site is thought by many to be the Troy of Homer's Iliad .

Whether it is, or not, the Troy of the Trojan War myths, the multi-layered, rambling ruins here expose a vast history of occupation, abandonment, and reoccupation that stretches right back to the early Bronze Age.

The ruins include well-preserved city walls and fortifications, the remnants of a palace, megarons (Mycenean hall complexes) and houses, along with later Roman-era sanctuary and Odeon monuments.

Just down the road from the Troy site is the new Troy Museum , one of Turkey's best museums.

The vast and thoughtfully collated collection inside tells the tale of Troy, from its earliest occupation right through to the modern era, including the mythology that surrounds the site; the controversial and damaging excavations of early archaeological work here; and the story of the missing cache of gold, silver, and copper artifacts (known as Prium's Treasure) currently held at Moscow's Pushkin Museum, which were unearthed at the site and illegally smuggled out of Turkey by Heinrich Schliemann.

Read More: Visiting Troy from Istanbul

Highlight: Rambling this vast site of shattered churches set high on the steppe

The ruins of the powerful Silk Road city of Ani sit abandoned on the plains rubbing up against Turkey's modern border with Armenia.

Once capital of the Armenian Kingdom, Ani's golden age came to an end in the 14th century after Mongol raids, earthquake destruction, and trade route tussling all played their part in the city's decline.

The beautiful red-brick buildings still crumbling away amid the steppe grass have a mesmerizing effect on all who visit.

Don't miss the Church of the Redeemer and the Church of Saint Gregory, with their elaborate stone masonry and fresco remnants still visible; the bulky Ani Cathedral building; and the Manuçehr Mosque, built by the Seljuk Turks when they captured the city in the 11th century and thought to be the first mosque built in what would become Turkey.

Highlight: Idly wandering cobblestone streets amid the old town of wood-beamed mansions

Turkey's best-preserved Ottoman town is a fabulously photogenic place of skinny winding alleys crammed with finely restored wooden mansions which were once the home of wealthy merchants and now have been transformed into boutique hotels and restaurants.

There's little to actually do in town. Instead, this is a place to simply stroll the streets and admire the old-world atmosphere.

It's also known for its traditional sweets and crafts and there are plenty of cute shops where you can pick up a unique souvenir.

If you're road-tripping inland from Istanbul, this is a fantastic place to stop-off for the night and experience the historic ambience.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Safranbolu

Highlight: Take a scenic sightseeing trip on Istanbul's famed continent-dividing strait

One of the world's great waterways, the Bosphorus Strait separates Europe from Asia and connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara (and hence, out to the Mediterranean).

Cruising along the Bosphorus, whether by hopping local ferries, on a tourist ferry cruise, or a private boat, is one of the great tourist attractions of an Istanbul stay. This is the most relaxing sightseeing opportunity in Istanbul.

Onboard, it's all about soaking up the scenery from the water, with the shorefront lined with Ottoman palaces; villas; and wooden mansions out to Rumeli Fortress, built by Mehmet the Conqueror; and (farther north along the strait), the Byzantine-era ramparts of Anadolu Fortress.

Highlight: A dazzling collection of Greco-Roman mosaic artistry

Due to the ongoing aid response in the aftermath of Turkey's February 2023 earthquake, the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum has been temporarily closed. For information on reopening, check the official museum website .

The city of Gaziantep is one of southeastern Turkey's great highlights for a few days of guzzling Gaziantep's renowned baklava and strolling the alleys of its old city district, but its most famous attraction is the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum.

The museum contains both one of the largest and most important mosaic collections in the world.

Nearly all the Hellenistic and Roman-era floor mosaics displayed here are originally from the Greco-Roman ruins of the town of Zeugma, which is now half-submerged due to the construction of the Bericik Dam. The mosaics, cleverly curated and displayed so that they can be viewed from their best angles, provide visitors with a sense of the artistry of the Greco-Roman era.

Despite the many huge mosaics here, the most famous mosaic in the collection, known as the Gypsy Girl , is one of the smallest pieces. It is displayed dramatically in its own darkened room, so that the intricate artistry of the piece can be better appreciated.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gaziantep

Highlight: Soaking up the atmosphere of standing amid the world's earliest religious monument

One of Turkey's most important ancient ruins, the hilltop site of Göbeklitepe , near Şanlıurfa, has generated hundreds of headlines worldwide, been anointed with UNESCO World Heritage status, (and provided the inspiration for the Netflix series The Gift ) since it was opened to the public.

This small site of towering T-shaped pillars, inscribed with animal figures and anthropomorphic details, dates from the pre-pottery Neolithic era and is thought by archaeologists to be the world's earliest religious sanctuary.

Although it may not have the wow-factor of Turkey's many, much later Bronze Age and Greco-Roman ancient sites, Göbeklitepe's importance in our understanding of early human history has made it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey's southeast.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Şanlıurfa

Highlight: Exploring this stunning Byzantine religious center that clings to the cliff-side

With its stunning, lonely setting, built into a cliff face, Sumela Monastery (Monastery of the Virgin Mary) is the star attraction for visitors along the Black Sea Coast.

Wandering around this abandoned religious complex, with its church interiors crammed with dazzling and vibrant frescoes, is a must for anyone who makes the long journey to Turkey's northeast region.

The monastery first opened during the Byzantine era and only ceased operation as a working religious center in 1923, when the monks were forced to leave as part of the Greek-Turkish Population Exchange.

Today, wandering its empty cells, it's easy to imagine the isolated lives of the monks who once lived here.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Black Sea Coast

Overall, depending on what you plan to do, Turkey can be visited year-round, but for the most dependable weather, the best times to visit are the months of May, June, July, August, September, and October.

May, June, September, and October are the prime time for Turkey travels, with plenty of blue skies and sunshine and softer light for photography, but fewer crowds. Just remember to pack a warmer layer for after dark and a jacket in case of rain.

Spring wildflowers bloom across the countryside in May, while the displays of colorful fall foliage during October make these two months the best for keen photographers.

July and August are the most popular months to visit, with temperatures regularly peaking over 30 degrees Celsius and little chance of rain disrupting your plans. If you're here specifically for the beach and activities on the water, this is peak season.

More on Turkey

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7 of the best cities to visit in Turkey

F ew countries so close to home can tick off as many travel essentials as Turkey , with flights from the UK taking around four hours, or about four days if you take the train.

The country has warm weather in both summer and winter, while being home to beautiful coastal areas , renowned historic sights, buoyant party resorts and an eclectic range of cities.

It’s no secret that Turkey is an excellent holiday destination. But less well known is the variety on show within its cities, a surprising number of which will keep you busy over a weekend or even longer.

Istanbul is many visitors’ first taste of the country, with its high-octane way of life and excellent range of things to do providing a memorable introduction to Turkish culture, history, cuisine and nightlife.

In Turkey’s south west, the Turquoise Coast – also known as the Turkish Riviera – is home to cities such as Bodrum and Antalya . They combine distinct heritage with striking coastal beauty, the perfect spots to visit in the midst of a beach holiday in this laid-back part of the world.

In the capital, Ankara , meanwhile, a vibrant energy attracts Turkish and foreign visitors alike.

But in a country so large, and so blessed with captivating cities, it can be difficult to know where to begin. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best cities in Turkey to help you plan your next adventure , whether it’s history, nightlife or culture that gets you going.

With a population of around 16 million people, Istanbul is a city that seemingly never sleeps. Bisected by the emerald waters of the Bosphorous Strait (which you can tour by boat for marvelous views), this is the place where two continents meet, and this fusion of distinct cultures has created a vibrant city whose energetic way of life often borders on chaotic.

A city steeped in the history of both Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been the home of three different empires over almost three millennia, and today still preserves some remnants of these vastly different cultures. Ottoman and Byzantine influences dominate, particularly in the Sultanahmet district, home to many of the city’s must-see sights.

Prime among these are the Blue Mosque, with its towering minarets, and the Hagia Sophia, a mosque that was originally constructed as a church, reflecting the changing influences that the city has been subject to. Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern are the district’s other main attractions, though it pays to explore further afield in areas like Balat, originally the city’s Greek Orthodox and Armenian neighbourhood, and Fener.

For a more contemporary taste of Istanbul, Arnavutköy is the heart of the city’s nightlife scene, while SALT Beyoğlu hosts art exhibitions and film screenings.

Read more on Turkey travel :

• Best Turkey holiday destinations
• All aboard the night train to Istanbul: the reality of one of the ‘world’s best’ rail journeys
• Turkey’s best winter sun spots to visit

Most years, Antalya competes with Istanbul for the title of ‘most visited Turkish city’. Though just a fraction of the size, Antalya, the capital of the country’s Turquoise Coast, punches above its weight in the tourism stakes thanks to a characterful old town, a beautiful harbour and dozens of beautiful surrounding beaches.

Some of the best nearby beaches include Cirali, Konyaalti and Patara, and while many choose to stay in one of the various beachfront resorts that populate the surrounding coastline, exploring Antalya itself is certainly worth leaving your sun lounger for.

Its charming old town, known as Kaleiçi, consists of labyrinthine streets housing a series of mosques, ancient walls, russet-roofed stone buildings and parks that attest to the influence of Ottoman culture and architecture. These narrow alleys snake down to the equally idyllic harbour, where a slew of cafes and restaurants welcome revellers throughout the day and night.

Bodrum is best known as an ideal spot for a Turkish summer holiday. Set among rolling green hills, it has an enviable coastal location, pristine beaches like Yahsi and Aspat, a variety of tourist sites and lively nightlife for those who seek it.

A range of resorts, from the dazzling high-end to the more affordable and family-friendly, cater to all sorts of tourists, whether you’re looking for parties on the marina or want to delve into the region’s history. There’s plenty of Bodrum’s past to explore; once known as Halicarnassus, it still contains a mausoleum, ancient ruins, a Roman theatre and the 700-year-old Bodrum Castle.

Like any coastal tourist city, there’s plenty more to see and do in Bodrum away from ruins and sun loungers. Scuba diving is a popular activity in nearby Gokova Bay, while boat trips around the peninsula or the Dalyan River are a good way to spend an afternoon, as is wine tasting at Karnas Vineyards . The town’s proximity to Kos means that tourists and locals alike will often spend the day in Greece too.

Turkey’s capital city may be overshadowed by world-renowned Istanbul, but Ankara offers visitors an experience of Turkey’s ‘other’ side, away from chaotic cities and party-centric coastal resorts. This is a youthful, exciting city that fuses the old and the new. It is fuelled by its relatively new status as a major city, and vibrant modern areas such as studenty Kizilay and more upmarket Kavaklidere.

But Ankara has been careful not to forget its past. High above the city sits the Anit Kabir, the vast mausoleum of the father of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who led the War of Independence and bestowed the city’s status as capital. Down below in Hisar, Roman monuments like those at Ulus sit alongside Byzantine citadel walls that enclose Ottoman-era mini villages. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Museum of the War of Independence are two more historical highlights, while the parks of Kugulu and Genclik provide some much-needed green space.

Izmir is sometimes overlooked in favour of nearby Bodrum or Marmaris, but Turkey’s third largest city is home to plenty of arts, culture and a rich heritage, as well as the idyllic coastal resorts of Cesme, Alacati and Urla.

While the city’s past was characterised by activity around the Bay of Izmir, Konak Pier and the impressive city promenade (known as Kordon), the modern-day symbol of the city is its 20th-century Clock Tower.

It is located in the middle of Konak Square, in the district of the same name, which is also the gateway of the maze-like 17 th -century Kemeralti Market. This Turkish bazaar stretches across the city into the Roman agora, with the ancient Kadifekale fort being the other main historic site.

Located on the border with Greece and Bulgaria , Edirne is a city with a more European feel than other Turkish counterparts, but one whose architecture, mosques, bazaars and palace provide a constant reminder that you are in a former Ottoman capital.

Edirne sits along the banks of both the Maritza and Tunca rivers, surrounded by verdant plains and with much of the same white-washed, russet-roofed building styles as Antalya. The city’s main landmark is the 16th-century Selimiye Mosque, an impressive Unesco-listed structure that has become a symbol of Edirne. Other mosques, such as Muradiye, Old Mosque and the Sultan Beyezid II Complex, adorn the city skyline, while a series of bridges over the Tunca also hark back to Ottoman times, and provide a base for summer relaxation and mild swims.

Marmaris is a popular coastal town, welcoming thousands of tourists every summer despite its modest size. It benefits from a striking location on the Aegean Sea and surrounded by dense forest and towering hills, with a coastline that is home to golden sand lapped by azure waters along beaches like Urban or Long Beach.

Like Antalya, the town begins in its yacht-filled marina, with a maze of narrow streets slowly snaking back into the old town, itself a sea of red roofs and white-washed buildings. Marmaris Castle, the museum, the bazaar and Jinan Gardens are worth exploring to take in history, a spot of shopping and a pleasant stroll, before ending the day on aptly named Bar Street, the centre of the city’s often raucous nightlife.

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