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22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Jess Lee has been a regular Istanbul visitor for twenty years and used to run tours in the city. She lives in Turkey.

Coveted by empires across the centuries, straddling both Europe and Asia, Istanbul is one of the world's great metropolises.

Founded around 1000 BCE, the colony of Byzantium grew into the Byzantine Empire's great capital of Constantinople and after the Ottoman conquest of the city, retained its glorious place as the heart of their empire.

The city (officially renamed Istanbul after the founding of the Turkish Republic) is liberally scattered with glorious remnants of its long and illustrious history, and the tourist attractions here will impress even the most monument-weary visitor.

As well as the big four (the Hagia Sophia Mosque, Topkapı Palace, the Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar), leave enough time to explore the other sights.

Although many of the most popular and best places to visit are located in, or near, the old city district of Sultanahmet, there is a dazzling array of other things to do throughout the farther reaches of the city.

Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Istanbul.

See also: Where to Stay in Istanbul

1. Admire the Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) Mosque

2. explore topkapı palace (topkapı sarayı), 3. visit the blue mosque (sultan ahmet cami), 4. head underground at the basilica cistern (yerebatan sarnıçı), 5. stroll the hippodrome, 6. check out the collection in istanbul archaeology museum, 7. shop in the grand bazaar (kapalı çarşı), 8. admire the architecture of the süleymaniye mosque, 9. sample turkish produce in the spice bazaar (mısır çarşısı), 10. soak up the splendor of dolmabahçe palace, 11. see the frescoes of the chora church (kariye cami), 12. visit the museum of turkish and islamic arts (türk ve islam eserleri müzesi), 13. view the little aya sofya (küçük aya sofya), 14. admire the tilework of the rüstem paşa mosque, 15. walk the ramparts of yedikule fortress (yedikule hisarı), 16. climb up galata tower, 17. cruise the bosphorus strait, 18. take in the art at istanbul modern, 19. visit the historic fatih mosque, 20. view the pera museum's ottoman-era art, 21. stroll istiklal caddesi and taksim, 22. explore the district of üsküdar, where to stay in istanbul for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to istanbul, map of tourist attractions & things to do in istanbul, istanbul, turkey - climate chart.

Highlights: Ancient architecture, deep religious significance, and glittering mosaics

It's said that when the Byzantine Emperor Justinian entered his finished church for the first time in CE 536, he cried out " Glory to God that I have been judged worthy of such a work. Oh Solomon, I have outdone you! "

The Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya in Turkish) was the emperor's swaggering statement to the world of the wealth and technical ability of his empire.

Tradition maintained that the area surrounding the emperor's throne within the church was the official center of the world.

Through its conversion to a mosque, after the Ottoman armies conquered Constantinople, to its further conversion into a museum in the 20th century and its reconversion back into a working mosque in 2020, the Hagia Sophia has remained one of Istanbul's most cherished landmarks.

Address: Aya Sofya Meydanı, Sultanahmet

• Read More: Exploring Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia): A Visitor's Guide

Highlights: Ottoman-era finery, sumptuous tilework, and the Harem complex

First built by Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century, glorious Topkapı Palace , beside the Bosphorus, was where the sultans of the Ottoman Empire lived and ruled from.

The vast complex is a dazzling display of Islamic art, with opulent courtyards lined with intricate hand-painted tilework, linking a warren of sumptuously decorated rooms, all bounded by battlemented walls and towers.

Of the many highlights here, the most popular are the Harem complex (where the sultan's many concubines and children would spend their days); the Second Court , where you can walk through the vast palace kitchens and stand in awe at the dazzling interior of the Imperial Council Chamber; and the Third Court, which contained the sultan's private rooms.

The Third Court also displays an impressive collection of relics of the Prophet Muhammad in the Sacred Safekeeping Room and is home to the Imperial Treasury, where you're greeted with a cache of glittering gold objects and precious gems that will make your eyes water.

To fully see Topkapı Palace, you'll need at least half a day.

Address: Babihümayun Caddesi, Gülhane Park

Highlight: Home to Istanbul's famed domed interior of Ottoman tilework

Sultan Ahmet I's grand architectural gift to his capital was this beautiful mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque today.

Built between 1609 and 1616, the mosque caused a furore throughout the Muslim world when it was finished, as it had six minarets (the same number as the Great Mosque of Mecca). A seventh minaret was eventually gifted to Mecca to stem the dissent.

The mosque gets its nickname from its interior decoration of tens of thousands of Iznik tiles.

The entire spatial and color effect of the interior makes the mosque one of the finest achievements of Ottoman architecture.

A great sightseeing joy of a trip to Istanbul is wandering amid the gardens sandwiched between the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia to experience their dueling domes in twin glory.

Come at dusk for extra ambience, as the call to prayer echoes out.

Directly behind the Blue Mosque is the Arasta Bazaar; a great place for a shopping stop as the handicraft shops here sell high-quality souvenirs.

Even if you're not interested in a browse, head here to see the Great Palace Mosaic Museum , which is tucked between the Arasta Bazaar and the mosque.

This small museum displays the 250-square-meter fragment of mosaic pavement that was unearthed in the 1950s here. Excellent information panels explain the mosaic floor's recovery and subsequent rescue.

Highlight: Walking amid this atmospheric, majestic, and columned Byzantine-era space

The Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul's most surprising tourist attractions.

This huge, palace-like underground hall, supported by 336 columns in 12 rows, once stored the imperial water supply for the Byzantine emperors.

The project was begun by Constantine the Great but finished by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century.

Many of the columns used in construction were recycled from earlier classical structures and feature decorative carvings.

The most famous of these are the column bases known as the Medusa stones in the northwest corner with their Medusa head carvings.

A visit here is very atmospheric with the columns beautifully lit and the soft, steady trickle of water all around you.

Address: Yerebatan Caddesi, Sultanahmet

Highlights: Central park area holding relics from ancient Egypt and Greece.

The ancient Hippodrome was begun by Septimius Severus in CE 203 and completed by Constantine the Great in CE 330.

This was the center of Byzantine public life and the scene of splendid games and chariot races but also factional conflicts.

Today, there isn't much of the Hippodrome left to see, except for a small section of the gallery walls on the southern side, but the At Meydanı (park), which now stands on the site is home to a variety of monuments.

On the northwest side is a fountain, presented to the Ottoman sultan by the German Emperor William II in 1898.

Then, heading southwest are three ancient monuments: a 20-meter high Egyptian obelisk (from Heliopolis); the Serpent Column brought here from Delphi by Constantine; and a stone obelisk that originally was clad in gold-covered bronze plating until they were stolen by the soldiers of the 4th Crusade in 1204.

Highlights: Viewing the Sidon necropolis collection, Anatolian sarcophagi, and the Tiled Pavilion

Just a hop, skip, and jump away from Topkapı Palace, and easily visited afterwards, Istanbul Archaeology Museum brings together an array of artifacts from both Turkey and throughout the Middle East, which sweeps through the vast breadth of history of this region.

There are three separate sections in the museum complex, each of which are worthy of a visit.

The Museum of the Ancient Orient displays a collection focused on the Middle East's pre-Islamic art and heritage.

The main Archaeology Museum houses statuary and tombs, including the famed sarcophaguses from Sidon, Lebanon that were unearthed by Ottoman architect Osman Hamdi Bey. Also here, you'll find the Istanbul through the Ages exhibit room, which helps you visualize the city's vast and epic history.

The museum's third building is the Tiled Pavilion, built by Mehmet the Conqueror, which houses a wide range of ceramic art.

Address: Osman Hamdi Bey Yokusu Sokak, Gülhane Park

• Read More: Exploring Istanbul's Archaeological Museum: A Visitor's Guide

Highlight: One of the world's great shopping experiences

For many visitors, sightseeing in Istanbul is as much about shopping as museums and monumental attractions, and the Grand Bazaar is where everyone comes.

This massive covered market is basically the world's first shopping mall, taking up a whole city quarter, surrounded by thick walls, between the Nuruosmanıye Mosque and Beyazıt Mosque.

The Beyazıt Mosque (built in 1498-1505) itself occupies the site of Theodosius I's Forum and has architecture inspired by the Hagia Sophia.

Entrance to the bazaar is through one of 11 gates from where a maze of vaulted-ceiling laneways, lined by shops and stalls selling every Turkish souvenir and handicraft you could imagine, cover the area.

The various trades are still mostly segregated into particular sections, which makes browsing easier.

Near the bazaar's Divanyolu Caddesi entrance is the Burned Column. This stump (still 40 meters high) of a porphyry column was set up by Constantine the Great in his forum. Until 1105, it bore a bronze statue of Constantine.

Address: Divanyolu Caddesi

Read More: Istanbul's Grand Bazaar: Things to Buy & Shopping Tips

Highlights: Ottoman mosque architecture at its finest and the tomb of Sultan Süleyman I

Sitting high on the hill above Sultanahmet district, the Süleymaniye Mosque is one of the most recognized landmarks of Istanbul.

It was built for Sultan Süleyman I (commonly known as Süleyman the Magnificent; reigned 1520-1566) by the famed Ottoman architect, Sinan, who is responsible for many of the feted Ottoman-era monuments in Turkey including the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne .

The Süleymaniye Mosque's interior, dominated by its soaring 53-meter-high dome is notable for its harmonious proportions and unity of design.

Outside in the tranquil garden area is an interesting Ottoman-era cemetery, which is also home to the türbes (tombs) of the Sultan Süleyman and his wife Haseki Hürrem Sultan (often commonly known outside of Turkey as Roxelana).

Address: Professor Sıdık Sami Onar Caddesi

Highlights: One-stop-shop for Turkish flavors and sampling the country's famed sweet treats

The Spice Bazaar is the place to get your foodie fix of lokum (Turkish delight), dried fruit, nuts, herbs, and, of course, spices.

Much of the money that helped construct it came from the taxes the Ottoman government levied on Egyptian-made products, which is why its name in Turkish (Mısır Çarşısı) means "Egyptian Market."

The Spice Bazaar is one of Istanbul's most popular tourist attractions and at certain times of the day gets ridiculously crowded with huge tour groups from the docked cruise ships.

Try to come before 11am or after 4pm to dodge the crowds.

Just next door to the Spice Bazaar's main entrance is the stately Yeni Cami (New Mosque), which was begun in 1615 and finished in 1663 – that's "new" for Istanbul.

It is worthwhile taking a peek inside while you're sightseeing in the area, as the interior is richly decorated with tilework and liberal use of gold leaf.

Address: Yenicami Meydanı, Eminönü

Highlights: Extravagant palace interiors and manicured formal gardens

The sumptuous and ornate Dolmabahçe Palace shows the clear influence of European decoration and architecture on the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century.

Built by Sultan Abdülmecid I in 1854, it replaced Topkapı Palace as the main residence of the sultans.

Dolmabahçe Palace was also used as an official residence during the founding years of the Turkish Republic, and Atatürk (the founder of modern Turkey) died here in 1938.

The formal gardens are punctuated with fountains, ornamental basins, and blooming flower beds.

Inside, the interiors blend Rococo, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Ottoman elements with mammoth crystal chandeliers, liberal use of gold, French-style furnishings, and frescoed ceilings to create a dazzling Turkish Renaissance style of sheer splendor and pomp.

Location: Dolmabahçe Caddesi, Besiktas

Highlight: Home to a famed collection of late-Byzantine-era frescoes and mosaics

Chora means "country" in Greek, and this beautiful Church (originally called the Church of St. Saviour of Chora) lay just outside old Constantinople's city walls.

The first Chora Church was probably built here in the 5th century, but what you see now is the building's 6th reconstruction as it was destroyed completely in the 9th century and went through several facelifts from the 11th to 14th centuries.

The church was turned into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople and became a museum in 1945. In 2020, it reconverted into a working mosque.

The monument is rightly world-famous for its fabulously vibrant 14th-century mosaics, preserved almost intact in the two narthexes and fragmentarily in the nave, and the frescos along the walls and domes.

These incredible examples of Byzantine artistry cover a wide range of themes, from the genealogy of Christ to the New Testament stories.

Location: Kariye Cami Sokak, Edirnekapı

Highlights: World-famous carpet collection; showcase of the wood, ceramic, and stone artistry of the Islamic empires

Housed in the palace of Ibrahim Paşa, who was Grand Vizier for Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in Ottoman and Islamic art.

The carpet collection on display here is vast and is heralded by textile experts as the world's best.

This is a prime place to come have a peek at the dazzling array of styles of Turkish carpets (along with carpets from the Caucasus and Iran) across the centuries before setting out on a shopping mission to purchase your own floor piece.

There are also exquisite ceramics, calligraphy, and wood carving exhibits ranging in date from the 9th century CE to the 19th century.

Address: At Meydanı Caddesi, Sultanahmet

Highlight: Serene church-turned-mosque amid Istanbul's historic core

Before Emperor Justinian built the Hagia Sofia (Aya Sofya) , he had to test out if the building would work structurally, so he built this miniature version first.

Its original name was the Church of Sergius and Bacchus, but the obvious architectural parallels with the Aya Sofya led to its long-held nickname becoming the building's official title.

During the Ottoman era, the church was converted into a mosque and it still functions as a working mosque today.

Although its proportions aren't as grandiose as others in Istanbul, the building has been beautifully restored and is well worth a visit.

The walk here, down narrow alleyways lined with tall Ottoman-era buildings – some lavishly restored and others creaking their way into dilapidation – is a tranquil respite from central Sultanahmet.

Take the time to have a glass of tea in the Little Aya Sofya's peaceful garden to sustain you for further sightseeing exploits.

Address: Küçük Aya Sofya Caddesi , Sultanahmet

Highlight: An interior of glorious and immaculately preserved ceramic tilework displays

Possibly the most perfectly pretty mosque in Istanbul, the Rüstem Paşa Mosque is home to the most stunningly preserved Iznik tile panels in the city.

Sure the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) may get all the glory, but it's here – covering both the exterior courtyard walls and the mosque interior itself – that you'll find the best examples of these gorgeously intricate hand-painted tiles in blues, reds, and greens.

Even better, as it's less known, you're likely to be able to admire them up close without having to battle any crowds.

Finding the mosque adds to the fun as it's squirreled down a skinny lane lined with market stalls and always bustling with life, near the Spice Bazaar.

Address: Hasırcılar Caddesi, Eminönü

Highlight: Take in the sea views while strolling this preserved section of the city's Byzantine walls

Although it's a bit of a schlep on the suburban train to get out to Yedikule (Castle of the Seven Towers), this commanding fortress is well worth it.

Built in the 5th century by the Emperor Theodosius II, the fortress made up the southern section of Constantinople's defensive walls.

The mammoth arch (blocked up in the late Byzantine period) was known as Porta Aurea (Golden Gate), with doors plated in gold.

When the Ottomans conquered the city, they used the fortress for defense, and later as a prison and execution place.

Yedikule has been restored in recent years, and you can climb up to the top of the battlements for superb views across the Sea of Marmara.

Address: Yedikule Sokak, Yedikule

Highlights: Views of this landmark building from the surrounding narrow alleys, and vistas of the historic city center from the top

The Galata Tower , overlooking the Golden Horn, was built by the Genoese in the 14th century. Today it remains one of Istanbul's most recognizable landmarks.

Standing 52 meters tall, the tower was Istanbul's tallest building for centuries. The tower has been restored several times over the years due to being damaged by fire and storms.

Today the observation deck at the top story, and its restaurant, is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul for taking in the iconic skyline views of the central old city.

Be aware, though, that it's a super popular sight, so come early or be prepared to queue.

Address: Bereketzade, Beyoğlu

Highlights: Easygoing sightseeing and panoramic city views on one of the world's great straits

For many visitors, a trip to Istanbul isn't complete without hopping aboard a Bosphorus excursion ferry and cruising the city's famed waterway, which connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara.

Istanbul's most iconic views are all from the water, and the Bosphorus excursion ferries are all about sitting back, relaxing, and taking in the scenery.

The most famous ferry tour is the Long Bosphorus Tour, which heads from Eminönü ferry dock daily, all the way up the strait to the village and fortress at Anadolu Kavağı, near the northern mouth of the strait into the Black Sea.

Along the ferry cruise there are shoreside vistas of defensive fortresses, Ottoman-era palaces and mansions, and the Bosphorus' bridges.

The Long Bosphorus Tour takes two hours one-way, stops in Anadolu Kavağı for three hours, and then returns, so you need to set aside a full day of your itinerary if you want to do it.

There is also a Short Bosphorus Tour option that operates daily two-hour afternoon sailings from spring to fall. This return ferry cruise heads up the Bosphorus as far as Rumeli fortress before turning around.

Highlights: Leading center for Turkish contemporary art plus trail-blazing temporary exhibitions

Proving that Istanbul isn't just about historic sightseeing, this thoroughly up-to-the-minute art gallery holds an extensive collection of Turkish modern art with an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions, hosting both local and international artists throughout the year.

This is by far the best place in town to get your finger on the pulse of Turkey's contemporary art scene.

As well as the galleries, the Istanbul Modern has a cinema that hosts a program of film viewings and a library.

The galleries are being temporarily hosted in a historic Beyoğlu building while they wait for the completion of this art museum's new permanent home in Karaköy.

Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi, No:99, Beyoğlu

Highlights: Historic Ottoman-era mosque and site of Sultan Mehmet II's Tomb

The district of Fatih is home to this important mosque, which sits on the hilltop site of the first mosque built in the city by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, who finally broke through Constantinople's walls, ending the Byzantine era.

The original 15th-century mosque was badly damaged by an earthquake and so was replaced with this grand and imposing building, replete with multiple domes and minarets, in the 18th century.

Being the site of the first of Istanbul's grand imperial mosques to be built, as well as being home to Sultan Mehmet's tomb, it's an important historic building and a popular pilgrimage site.

Location: Fevzi Pasa Caddesi, Fatih

Highlights: Acclaimed collection of Orientalist art and world-class temporary art exhibitions

Istanbul's most famous art gallery is the lovely Pera Museum , which is where art-hounds head to view one of the finest collections of Ottoman-era art in the world.

In particular, the museum contains the well-known paintings of Ottoman artist Osman Hamdi Bey. While the collection also features many other artists who focused their work on the Ottoman world, both local and foreign.

As well as the Ottoman art, the Pera holds a renowned collection of Ottoman-era tile and ceramic work and a vast collection of artifacts from the Ottoman period, as well as pieces from earlier eras.

There's also a program of regularly changing exhibitions, which focus on both historic and contemporary art and often feature some of the international art world's biggest names.

Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi, Tepebası

Highlights: Cafe-hopping, a historic tram ride, 19th-century façades, and a dining hub

Pedestrianized Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Street) is a bustling modern shopping street with a wealth of restaurants and cafés.

The lower end of the street can be reached by taking the world's oldest underground railway (the Tünel, constructed in 1875) from near Galata Bridge. There is also a quaintly old-fashioned tramway that runs along its length right up to Taksim Square at the top of the hill.

From Taksim Square, busy Cumhuriyet Caddesi is lined with hotels, shops, restaurants, and high rises. On the east side of the road, just after the square, is Maçka Park, which is home to the interesting Military Museum.

The area around Istiklal Caddesi is home to many churches and old consulate buildings with ornate facades.

Also nearby is Orhan Pamuk's Museum of Innocence . Pamuk is Turkey's most famous author and the winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. This conceptual-art museum is based around the theme of his novel The Museum of Innocence and is a rather bizarre, kooky, and wonderfully atmospheric experience.

Address: Istiklal Caddesi

Highlights : Hillside strolls with city views and historic lesser-seen Ottoman mosques

Istanbul's Asian shore is easily reached by ferry from Eminönü dock across the Bosphorus.

On an islet just off the Asiatic shore stands the 30-meter-high Kızkulesi (Maiden's Tower).

Üsküdar was traditionally known as Scutari and has some handsome old mosques, winding lanes, and weathered brown timber houses (particularly between the ferry dock and the large cemetery).

The town, known in antiquity as Chrysopolis, was one of the earliest Greek settlements on the Bosporus.

It was much more exposed to attack by foreign conquerors than Constantinople, with its defensive situation and strong walls, but it was able to draw economic advantage from its exposed situation – until 1800 it was the terminus of the caravan routes that brought the treasures of the East to Constantinople and onwards to Europe.

Of particular sightseeing interest here is the Atik Valide Mosque, which was designed by the famed Ottoman architect Sinan; and the Çinili Mosque, which contains some beautiful Iznik tilework.

If you're planning to see Istanbul's top tourist attractions, the easiest place to base yourself is Sultanahmet (Istanbul's old city district), which is a short stroll from all the city's major historical attractions. The Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, and the Hagia Sofia (Aya Sofya) are all within a five-minute walk, and many hotels in the area have stellar views of these buildings, as well as out to the Bosphorus from their rooftop terraces. A tram line runs through Sultanahmet, and public transport is plentiful, connecting the district with other tourist attractions farther afield.

Another popular place to stay is across the Galata Bridge in the Beyoğlu and Taksim districts. These are both lively entertainment areas in the center of modern Istanbul. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations for sightseeing:

Luxury Hotels:

• In a century-old Neoclassical Turkish building, the sunny-hued Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet is a mere five-minute stroll from the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Hagia Sophia.
• Decorated in Ottoman style, the boutique White House Hotel Istanbul also lies minutes from these major historical attractions.
• For those who prefer to stay near all the entertainment action in Taksim, the Grand Hyatt Istanbul is a great choice only a few minutes' walk from Taksim Square.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The elegant Orient Express & Spa by Orka Hotels is an excellent mid-range option within walking distance of the Sultanahmet historical attractions and Sirkeci train station.
• Also in a prime Sultanahmet location is the Osmanhan Hotel , with beautiful views of the Bosphorus.
• In the heart of Taksim, the Artisan Istanbul MGallery offers contemporary comfort close to Taksim Square and Istiklal Street, one of the city's most famous walking streets, lined with cafes, boutiques, and bookstores.

Budget Hotels:

• If you're traveling on a budget, the boutique Sultans Royal Hotel offers great value for money in the heart of Sultanahmet and is known for its friendly, helpful staff.
• The Walnut Shell Hotel is also within walking distance of all the major monuments that make it a prime Istanbul base, and has rooms brimming with color and character.
• Explore the Main Sights: If you have only a day or two set aside for sightseeing, take the Istanbul in One Day Sightseeing Tour . This walking tour will ensure you see the most important attractions, including the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, as well as others. This is a small group tour, limited to 14 people, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a traditional lunch, and admission to the sites.
• Private Tours: With more time up your sleeve to see the city, and the option to fully customize what to do and what to see, the private Best of Istanbul Tour offers one-, two-, or three-day Istanbul itineraries with a tour guide.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours: The Istanbul Hop-On Hop-Off BusForUs Tour uses a traditional double-decker bus, which stops at the major sites and allows you to tour the city at your own pace. It's also a great way to get familiar with the general layout of the city. Tickets are valid for one day.

The best time to visit Istanbul is, in general, from late spring to early fall — the months of May, June, July, August, and September.

July and August are peak tourism season and bring the hottest weather with long summer days heralding plenty of blue skies and sunshine — great for fitting in plenty of sightseeing. Average temperatures in the city during this period vary between 20 and 29 degrees Celsius. T-shirt weather carries into the evenings for these months, meaning you can slim down your packing requirements.

If you're planning to travel in May, June, or September instead (which are still considered high season in Istanbul), daytime temperatures are usually thoroughly pleasant. For some visitors, its slightly milder temperatures are preferable to July and August for sightseeing, but you will need to pack a warmer layer to throw on after the sun sets. And, remember to bring along an umbrella, as May and September in particular can bring up to eight or nine rainy days per month.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

The Coast and More Historic Cities: After an Istanbul sojourn, why not hit Turkey's famed coastline, lapped by the waves of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Check out our articles on Bergama and the North Aegean , Fethiye , Antalya, and Kas for inspiration. Turkey has plenty of other historic cities to discover. Konya and Sanliurfa are two of the best and are city guides to these destinations can help you plan your time.

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Patrons dine at a café in Istanbul, Turkey.

Discover the best of Istanbul

Journey through Istanbul's culture and history with these top 10 tips.

Spread across two continents, Istanbul contains the ruins of empires past, from the Hagia Sophia to the Blue Mosque to the Galata Tower.

Natural Wonder

Istanbul’s greatest natural wonder is the mighty Bosphorus Strait that cuts through the city. Take a ferry ride up the Bosphorus to see the many Ottoman mansions, palaces, and fortresses that dot its shores. The strait connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. If you’re lucky, you can spot dolphins jumping out of the water.

National Park

In the north of the city, Belgrad Forest is one of the few places to go to be immersed in nature. The front of the park is usually filled with families barbecuing, but hike or bike through the forest's extensive jogging routes in the thick woods to get some solitude and fresh air. The forest historically was the source of much of the city's water supply, and it is still dotted with the remains of Byzantine reservoirs and an Ottoman-era aqueduct.

Archaeological Site

The Istanbul Archaeological Museum was founded during the Ottoman era and houses thousands of artifacts uncovered from all over Turkey. The collection includes ancient sarcophagi, marble statues, intricate mosaics, and more. It’s the best place to get a comprehensive overview of Turkey’s archaeological richness.

UNESCO Site

Visit Topkapi Palace , a UNESCO World Heritage site that was the palace for the Ottoman Sultan. Make sure to go to the Harem, which was designed by famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan and decorated with vibrantly colored Iznik tiles. Don’t forget to take in the views of the Bosphorus Strait from the palace’s windows before you leave.

Cultural Experience

Attend a whirling dervish performance at the Galata Mevlevi House . This is a spiritual ritual performed by Sufis in a traditional dervish lodge, and performances take place every Sunday. The lodge also functions as a museum, so you can learn about the whirling dervishes in Turkey.

Best Day Trip

Take a two-hour bus ride to Sile, a coastal Black Sea town with beautiful beaches. You can also ride a ferry south of Istanbul to Bursa, which is known for its famous historical mosques, rich Iskender kebab, and thermal baths. This is also the best jumping-off point for skiing on Uludag Mountain .

Off the Beaten Path

For fewer crowds, go to Suleymaniye Mosque instead of the Blue Mosque. The sprawling mosque campus is considered the best work in Istanbul by Mimar Sinan, and the courtyard offers a terrific view of the city.

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Most Iconic Place

The Hagia Sophia has been Istanbul’s most iconic site throughout centuries and across empires. Originally a Byzantine church, it was converted into a mosque when the Ottomans took control of the city. After the founding of the Turkish Republic, the Hagia Sophia was turned into a museum, and restoration of the Byzantine-era mosaics is ongoing.

Head to Bomontiada , a nightlife complex in a reappropriated beer factory. With many restaurants, a craft brewery, art galleries, a wide-open courtyard, and Babylon, the city’s preeminent music performance venue, it’s easy to have a lively night out among Istanbul’s hippest residents.

Historic Site

The Basilica Cistern dates back to the Byzantine Empire and was used to provide water to the neighborhood. It was restored in the 1980s, and now it’s an eerie and evocative site to wander through—as well as a place to stay cool during Istanbul’s hot summer days.

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Explore Istanbul

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Bring earplugs so the dawn call to prayer, broadcast over speakers from the mosques, doesn't wake you.

isailthe7seas

Allow the call to prayer you hear throughout your day, be a reminder to stop and just take in the fact that you are in Istanbul. As a woman, know when you might be interacting with a more old fashion Islamic gentleman. If need be let the man traveling with you take the lead. Have toilet paper in your daypack. Practice the position of the Turkish toilet at home. you will probably need to use one at least once. ** just because the toilet stall that is available is Turkish toilet, doesn't mean that ALL are. the one that is occupied could be worth the wait.

sarikanarya

There are so many cliched phrases used to describe İstanbul - ancient and modern, where east meets west, old world blended with new world etc etc and they are all true. There is history, culture, shopping, sightseeing, museums, galleries, boat trips.There is SO much!

Istanbul is a magnificent city...one full of beauty, history, spectacular architecture, amazing restaurants, views to die for, wonderful little family-owned hotels, exceptionally kind and honest people, fun filled nightclubs, exotic sounds, exotic smells, and many other fabulous things too numerous to mention.

... too often we try to paint those places we love as bastions of perfection. I've been guilty of it, and so have others. No place, however, is perfect. And anyway, perfection is boring. Istanbul can stand proud and tall...even with her imperfections...and I hope we can all take a step back and realize that.

What is the best way to get there?

The city of Istanbul is served by Istanbul International Airport.

Istanbul is home to two trains stations, Haydarpasa station on the Asian side and Sirkeci station on the European side. Trains from Haydarpasa are destined for cities and towns in Anatolia, while Haydarpasa serves as the gateway to major European destinations.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Istanbul from overseas, check if you need a visa using the following  website .

When is the best time to visit?

The best times to visit Istanbul are between March and May and September and November. April is particularly beautiful because poppies and tulips, which first originated in Turkey, are in full bloom. Average daily temperatures in springtime can be highs of 15 C/59 F and lows of 7 C/45 F and highs around 19 C/66 F and lows around 12 C/55 F in autumn.

The bridge that connects the Asian and European sides of Istanbul is notorious for its traffic jams, making the best way to span the Bosphorus the vapur (ferry). The three main ferry stations on the European side are Besiktas, Kabatas, and Karakoy. Timetables are posted at each terminal.

Istanbul has an underground metro network that spans both sides of the city. It runs from morning until late at night and covers all top attractions. It gets very crowded during the morning and evening rush hours.

For comprehensive train maps, follow this  link .

There’s an abundance of taxi cabs in Istanbul, which makes hailing a ride a breeze. For ease, download the BiTaksi app , which sends the nearest taxi your way.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

The time zone in Turkey is GMT+3

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Istanbul is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. There are two associated plugs types: type C, with two round pins, and plug F, which has two round pins and two earth clips on the side. For plug types, you can reference the international guide: https://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/

What is the currency?

Turkish lira (TRY)

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted.

Yes, in hotels, restaurants, and bars but not smaller businesses.

Is it easy to find a bank?

How much do i tip, hotel staff, turkish bath (hammam) attendants, are there local customs i should know, turkish people are generally very tactile.

and, if you are of the same sex, are likely to touch you during exchanges.

Don’t point at someone

as this is considered rude in Istanbul.

Public displays of affection

such as kissing is considered disrespectful when in public. In public, you will rarely see members of the opposite sex touch one another.

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Incredible Istanbul: A Complete 3-Day Itinerary

Istanbul is the most heavily populated city in Turkey and one of the largest cities in all of Europe. An estimated 12-19 million people call it home (just for reference that is 20 times the size of my hometown of Portland, Oregon).

Turkey is split by the narrow strait called the Bosphorus with Europe on one side and Asia on the other. Not only is the city split geographically, but culturally as well. It is a melting pot of many different cultures and religions. You’ll encounter scantily clad women in short skirts and half shirts alongside extremely conservative women in burkas and everything in-between. All in one day.

The city is gigantic and sprawling. If you only have a limited amount of time in Istanbul, deciding where to sleep, eat, and explore can be overwhelming. Follow our detailed three-day itinerary to get the most out of your trip to this amazing city!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Istanbul Travel Basics

Know before you go.

• The Turkish currency is the lira (TRY) and the conversion is about 5.66 lira to the US dollar
• Learn a few key phrases to help you get around! “Mer-ha-ba” is “hello”, “tay-shay-koo-ay-dare-em” is “thank you very much”, “goo-lay-goo-lay” is “goodbye” if you are staying and they are leaving, while “hose-check-out” is “goodbye” if you are leaving and they are staying.
• Purchase the Museum Pass Istanbul for a better price on five days of museum exploration
• Purchase the Istanbulkart to get easy access to the tram, ferry, and city buses. Uber is also in Istanbul, but the prices are not significantly cheaper than taxis
• It’s super safe! I never felt uncomfortable or afraid even for a minute in Istanbul.

Where to Stay in Istanbul

We would highly recommend staying in the old city of Istanbul. It is centrally located and only a short walk to the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque, and the sea. It is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars and is quite lively in the evenings with locals and tourists alike.

The Hotel Empress Zoe is a tranquil paradise in the center of the bustling old city. With gorgeous, peaceful gardens, plenty of comfortable seating areas tucked into quiet corners, and bubbling fountains – it is the perfect place to relax after a long day of city exploring. The building is old and traditional, with wisteria snaking up the sides and spilling onto the terraces. It has been beautifully remodeled inside and out.

Gorgeous antique furniture, quilted drapes, and four-poster beds fill the unique rooms that overlook the old city below. Stunning paintings, intricate brass lamps, and colorful tapestries add creative whimsy to every corner.

Start each day with a plate (or two!) of their delectable breakfast spread. There are daily fresh fruit and veggies, yogurt, homemade granola, cheeses and jams, freshly baked rolls and muffins, and delicious egg dishes. Finish your evenings on the lovely rooftop terrace surrounded by views of mosques on one side and the sea on the other. Relax with a bottle of wine while watching the gorgeous sunset from the best seat on the block!

Complete 3-Day Istanbul Itinerary

Day one: eat, sleep, shop, repeat.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve been looking forward to a day of shopping in the Grand Bazaar for weeks before you finally arrived in Istanbul. So waiting until day two or three just isn’t an option. Plus there are so many things to see and do in Istanbul , best get started on your itinerary early!

Start your day with a hearty Turkish breakfast – it’s one of the best things about traveling in Turkey ! You’ll probably have an incredible breakfast spread if you’re staying at a fancy hotel. But if not, consider heading to Cafe Privato for one of the best breakfasts in Istanbul .

You’re off to the Grand Bazaar after breakfast, but consider just doing a scouting trip for now. The bazaar is incredibly overwhelming, so it’s better to just get a feel for where things are and what things cost. Walk around, compare prices, take photos of your favorites, and take business cards of the shops you like.

You won’t be able to walk more than 10 feet without hearing “hello lady!” “where are you from?” “please, come look at my shop!” “just looking just looking” “can I have your money?” You’ll be exhausted by the time you leave.

Tip: Haggling over price is expected and encouraged at shops in all of Turkey. When they state a price, counter with a price that is roughly half of what they are asking. You should be able to meet somewhere in the middle.

Once you have a general idea of what things cost and the items you are interested in purchasing, you’ll be ready for lunch and some downtime. Grab a quick lunch and a tea at Firat Büfe in stall #12 of the bazaar. Then head to  Çemberlitaş Hamamı Fiyat for a visit to the historical hamam, a soapy scrub, and a 30-minute oil massage to calm your muscles and your nerves. (Drifter Planet also recommends this hamam in their Istanbul itinerary )

You’ll be given a small pouch containing disposable undies and a scrubber when you first arrive. Once ushered to your gender-specific area, you’ll be directed to the changing room and offered a towel. Be sure to stick some coins in your pouch as a 10-20% tip split between your two attendants is expected. They will make a bit of a show about saying goodbye when they are finished.

From the dressing room, you’ll be taken into the hamam. You will sit there for 10-15 minutes on the hot marble rotunda to open up your pores. Someone will then come over to scrub you clean. You’ll be directed to another room after your rinse for your oil massage. Finally, you’ll finish with a shower. Leave feeling relaxed, invigorated, and ready to head back into the hectic bazaar to make your purchases!

A few of our favorite Grand Bazaar Shops:

• Barbi Home (stall #62) – for beautiful carpet bags and boots
• Ebrar Silver Ceramic Store (stall #22) – for a large selection of tea sets
• Güney Carpet (stall #60) – for tea and a chat with the Turkish George Clooney
• Dilek Gift Shop (stall #26) – for gorgeous handcrafted ceramic balls
• Bellihan Fine Rugs and Weavings (stall #94) – for a large selection of Turkish rugs and honest prices
• Silver Corner (stalls #45 and #51) – for all the jewelry you could ever want
• Regalos (stalls #33 and #35) – for a great price on quality lamps and hookahs

Once you’ve purchased your new Turkish treasures, head back to Empress Zoe to drop off your bags and then walk over to Meşale Cafe . Enjoy the appetizers, traditional Turkish music and dancing, and a flavored hookah. You’ll be endlessly entertained by the Whirling Dervish and the passionate group of instrumentalists that accompany him. This place gets packed in the evenings so the people-watching is just as entertaining as the performance!

Day Two: See All The Sights

A proper Turkish breakfast is a must before heading out for your day of Istanbul sightseeing . Make sure you start early to beat the crowds. You’re going to be surrounded by very conservative tourists today. Ladies may want to consider covering their shoulders and knees and men should wear long pants.

Start with the massive and impressive Sultanahmet Camii (nicknamed the Blue Mosque ), which is a short five-minute walk from the hotel. Marvel at the huge courtyard and take time to read the informational signs to learn a bit more about the traditions of the Muslim religion. Then get in line where you’ll be provided proper attire (no matter what you’re wearing, it probably won’t pass muster), and head inside (it’s donation only).

The Hagia Sophia has a complex history – it has been constructed three times, destroyed in riots, and has served both as a Greek Orthodox church and an imperial mosque. The original gorgeous gold mosaics depicting Jesus and the Virgin Mary were covered up when the church was converted to a mosque. However, there are areas on the second floor where parts of the plaster have been removed to reveal the remarkable designs underneath.

Directly across the way from the Blue Mosque is a giant domed building that looks quite similar. That’s the Hagia Sophia , one of the best sights in Istanbul . It’s where you’re headed next. It’s technically called a museum. Unlike most museums, there are no statues or paintings on display – you simply wander around the massive mosque and admire the architecture.

Next, cross the street and head to the Basilica Cistern  (also known as Yerebatan Sarnici ). It is a massive underground water reservoir that has an estimated water storage capacity of 100,000 tons.

It doesn’t take long to walk to the end of the cistern where the strange Medusa heads are on display. While you are exploring the area, consider the fact that the huge detailed marble columns were essentially created to support a giant tank that no one was really ever meant to see.

On your way out, stop at the super touristy but massively entertaining sultan photo stand and splurge on the 35 TL (~$10 USD) back-lit frame for your new prized photo souvenir. I promise you won’t regret it.

Now it’s time to take a break from sightseeing for a tasty afternoon treat. Baklava is a traditional Turkish food you must try and Hafiz Mustafa makes the best baklava in the city. Fill up a box with one of everything so you can snack on the delicious treats all day!

Head over to Topkapı Palace after enjoying your sweet treats to check out the spectacular former residence of the sultans of Istanbul.

It will take at least two hours to explore the grounds and all of the ostentatiously decorated rooms (including a “turban room” and a “circumcision room”). Marvel at the amount of detail that went into every door, every tile, and all of the intricate gold serving ware.

The Harem House costs a bit more to visit (and is not included in the Museum Pass), but it is definitely worth it to see the private quarters of the sultans!

It’s been a long day, so head to the rooftop of Seven Hills Restaurant  in the center of the old city for wine and spectacular sunset views of the city.

A few of our favorite restaurants in Istanbul’s old city:

• Old House Restaurant – try the mezze plate and the lamb casserole
• Cafe Rumist – try any of their delicious pies and freshly squeezed juice (no alcohol served here)
• Meşale Cafe  – for appetizers, traditional Turkish music and dancing, and a flavored hookah
• Balikci Sabahattin –  for scrumptious seafood in a beautiful garden setting
• Buhara Ocakbasi Restaurant – for kebabs with the locals

Tip: A 5-10% tip at restaurants is acceptable and expected.

Day Three: Cruise Around the Bosphorus

You’ve had a decent tour of the popular tourist destinations of Istanbul. Now it’s time to check out the darling little neighborhoods that dot the banks of the Bosphorus and are outside of the usual tourist track.

Dress to impress today as you’ll be mingling with the young and elite of Istanbul. Again, start with breakfast in the garden at Hotel Empress Zoe, and then it’s a short walk or tram ride to the bustling neighborhood of Eminönü.

From the Eminönü wharf, you’ll find ferries heading to all parts of both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul. You can catch a ferryboat up the Bosphorus to see the beautiful hotels, palaces, nightclubs, and government buildings lining the waterfront (to go to the far north end, catch one of the commuter ferries that run in the evenings from 5 -7:30 pm).

Or head directly to one of the following neighborhoods depending on your preference:

If you’re looking for a hipster-chic neighborhood with funky art galleries and pubs…

Get on the Kadiköy ferry which departs every 20 minutes and is a quick 25-minute ride to the Asian side of the city. The Kadiköy neighborhood is the “hipster” neighborhood with streets lined with funky art galleries, themed bars, and quirky shops. It’s where the young, hip, and slightly emo kids of Istanbul hang out.

After having a walk around the neighborhood, stop at Çiya Sofrasi for a wide variety of Turkish dips and traditional dishes for lunch. The streets are filled with fun themed bars so you can set down, enjoy an ice-cold craft beer and immerse yourself in the scene.

If you’re looking for the “hip industrial district” scene where the young and elite sip fancy coffee concoctions…

Head to the Karaköy neighborhood . Start with the Istanbul Modern Museum where an eclectic collection of paintings, videos, and interactive art pieces are exquisitely displayed. The museum is much larger than it looks from the outside and will take a few hours to explore in its entirety. 

Museum browsing is always exhausting, so after you’ve covered the main floor and the basement, you can head to the little museum cafe for a coffee and lovely sea views.

Or better yet, walk over to Kılıç Ali Paşa Mescidi Sk. which is a hip, bustling street in the middle of a sea of industrial buildings and ongoing construction. LOL Coffee Roasters serves up freshly brewed exotic coffee blends and fancy flavored specialties. Grab a table on the street or on the second-floor patio. Sip your pumpkin-flavored coffee while watching the trendy locals stroll by.

As you sit, consider how different people are dressed in these neighborhoods as compared to the area around the Blue Mosque and within the walls of the Grand Bazaar; half shirts will far outnumber head coverings. 

Kılıç Ali Paşa Mescidi Sk. street only gets more popular as the sun sets. So, if you’re up for it, stay for dinner, overpriced drinks, bumping music, and a lively atmosphere. Pim Karaköy has the best wine pours and cheapest beers around and it’s close enough to the action while still being able to carry on a conversation.

If you’re looking for an upscale experience and a more “western” vibe…

Check out Arnavutköy . It’s a cute little neighborhood that has darling, colorful houses that resemble the row houses of San Francisco. It’s also a popular area for ex-pats to live in so you’re likely to meet foreigners here.

Have a cocktail overlooking the sea at Any Restaurant and then roam around the cute backstreets admiring the architecture. Have a sunset stroll along the boardwalk to the Bebek neighborhood further north.

Finish with dinner and drinks at one of the many delectable seafood restaurants offering views of the Bosphorus.

After dinner head back to Hotel Empress Zoe for a glass of wine on the terrace overlooking the city below. Soak in the sights and sounds of the city you’ve spent the past three days exploring and start planning your trip to return!

If you Have More Time in Istanbul

Here are a few more things to do in the city.

• Take a cooking class! Cooking Alaturka offers a fun and informative class and will leave you with recipes to try back at home!
• Check out the  Süleymaniye Mosque which is arguably even more beautiful than the Blue Mosque on the inside but without the crowds. The views of the city from the courtyard are stunning!

• The Arasta Bazaar (just a couple of blocks from Hotel Empress Zoe) offers many of the same souvenirs as the Grand Bazaar but with less hassle.
• There are numerous touts offering hour-long boat tours of the Bosphorus at a bargain price (15-30 TL). It’s a good choice for Sundays as the public ferries run fewer routes.

Looking for more things to do in Istanbul? Check out our favorite travel guides!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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13 thoughts on “incredible istanbul: a complete 3-day itinerary”.

Good job Valery. You guys had so much fun 🙂 We spent a month in Istanbul a year ago to the day; loved it. I was caught wandering down that exact street in Karakoy where you are enjoying your beverage. 30 plus times at least because I walked through there 1-2 times daily 😉 Magical city and what nice people and GREAT food too.

I’ve been to Turkey but never to Istanbul, I’m impressed with how much you fitted into 3 days. Love the fact that you started with shopping first! The list of boutiques and of restaurants is really handy too!

Wow, I’m impressed how much you were able to pack in just 3 days. I’ve been to Istanbul once and found it overwhelming. Though I was there for business and did not have much time to tour around. Love your suggestions and especially the cooking class. I know Turkey is known for the food and I’d love to learn how to make a few things. Did you enjoy Turkish wine? I really liked it and found it quite pleasant. Great itinerary!!

Istanbul is a fantastic city. I enjoyed the vibe and the blue mosque is stunning. I had the pleasure of hanging around with family as my cousin married a Turkish women. Seeing the city as a local with them was incredible. I can’t wait to go back!!!

Oh awesome! Did you actually get to go to a Turkish wedding? I would’ve loved to attend one!

If you come to Turkey in summer, pls be my guest for a Turkish wedding 🙂

What a great guide to Istanbul. You’ve given some great advice when going to the Grand Bazaar. Picking up business cards, stopping for lunch and then starting the haggling is a great way to shop there. Turkish food is some of my favourite food, the cooking class would be perfect to be able to replicate it at home.

The Grand Bazaar was amazing shopping but SO overwhelming! Thanks so much for reading!

Great itinerary! We did a layover private tour in Istanbul last year and really enjoyed it. Of course, we wish we had time to see more of the city but there’s always the return trip. I, definitely, want to check out the Bosphorus cruise. I was really bummed that we missed that. I’m pinning this so I’ll have it for our return!

Thanks Mia! I hope you get to visit Turkey again soon!

Istanbul is been on my list for years. Thanks for the detailed itinerary. One thing is for sure, when I go there I will make sure to pack and extra bag, the shopping sounds incredible!

The shopping is the BEST! You’ll definitely need extra luggage to get all of your treasures home!

Istanbul looks so amazing! I’d love to visit. Hotel Empress Zoe looks like a fantastic hotel and I love the garden area! Shopping at the Grand Bazaar would be a must for me as well, and I like how you included a hamam visit in the afternoon for a break–great way to get ready to shop! Would love to check out the coffee in the Karaköy neighborhood, too! Thanks for a great list of spots to see!

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Azure Cave Suites

This romantic warren of caves, at the top of Çavuşin hill, offers vistas across the countryside and a contemporary decorative touch that gives a…

Patara View Point Hotel

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Turan Hill Lounge

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Hotel Empress Zoe

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Assosyal Otel

Why stay in a pension when there is a stunning option like this on offer? This 16-room hotel is full of contemporary art, serves a lavish and delicious…

Mehtap Pansiyon

The 10-room Mehtap has million-dollar views over the harbour and submerged Lycian tombs from its bougainvillea-draped terraces. Four rooms are in a 200…

Grand Vuslat

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Homeros Pension

This long-time, family-run favourite offers 10 rooms in two buildings. The decor involves heavy use of colourful hanging textiles, vibrant colours and…

Bahaus Resort Dalyan

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Quando Mehmet il Conquistatore pose la prima pietra del Kapalı Çarşı, nel 1455, diede il benestare imperiale a una tradizione mercantile locale che da allora gode di grande prosperità. Ubicato nel centro della Città Vecchia, questo suggestivo mercato coperto è il cuore di İstanbul, non soltanto in senso geografico: qui gli artigiani imparano il mestiere, gli uomini d’affari concludono contratti importanti e i turisti danno un consistente contributo all’economia locale (a volte, bisogna dire, facendo acquisti non proprio oculati).

A Costruita in stile ottomano barocco tra il 1748 e il 1755, questa moschea (Nuruosmaniye Camii, Moschea della Luce di Osman; cartina p62; Vezir Han Caddesi, Beyazıt; jÇemberlıtaş) è situata lungo il trafficato tragitto pedonale che da Cağaloğlu Meydanı e Nuruosmaniye Caddesi porta al bazar e ha sul retro un insolito cortile poligonale. Si trova vicino a uno dei principali ingressi del Gran Bazar, la Nuruosmaniye Kapısı (Porta Nuruosmaniye o Porta 1), decorata con un tuğra İsta(stemma del sultano) d’oro.

Su entrambi i lati della via più affollata del bazar si susseguono vetrine traboccanti di gioielli d’oro. La via deve il suo nome ai fabbricanti di kalpakçılar (cappelli di pelliccia) che in origine avevano qui i loro negozi, ma oggi è la zona dei gioiellieri, che pagano fino a 90.000 dollari all’anno di affitto per questa posizione strategica. Negli ultimi anni sono stati aperti negozi affiliati a grandi catene, il che ha suscitato le proteste degli artigiani tradizionali del bazar.

All’epoca della stesura di questa guida erano in corso estesi lavori di restauro in questo maestoso magazzino in pietra sormontato da 20 piccole cupole, costruito nel XVI secolo durante il regno di Solimano il Magnifico. In passato qui veniva immagazzinato e venduto il pregiato sandal (stoffa intessuta di seta) da cui l’edificio prende il nome.

Noto anche come Eski Bedesten (Bedesten Vecchio), è la parte più antica del bazar e viene usata da sempre per custodire e vendere merci preziose. Oggi ospita quasi tutti i negozi di antiquariato del bazar, oltre a gioiellieri rinomati come Necef Antik & Gold e Ümit Berksoy.

İstanbul: organizza il viaggio

con Evaneos

con Booking.com

İstanbul: da non perdere

Palazzo di Topkapı

Moschea Blu (Moschea del Sultano Ahmet)

Moschea di Solimano

Palazzo di Dolmabahçe

Crociera sul Bosforo

Kariye Müzesi (Chiesa di Chora)

Taksim Meydanı

İstanbul: i luoghi, i̇stanbul: cose da fare, divertimenti, sport & attività, vita notturna, i̇stanbul: informazioni utili, lingue parlate, informazioni essenziali, il primo viaggio, i̇stanbul: articoli e consigli.

Per visitare Hagia Sophia a Istanbul adesso serve un biglietto

İstanbul: guide di viaggio

• Things to Do Guide
• Top 10 Attractions
• Shopping Master Guide
• Top Shopping Malls
• Grand Bazaar (Kapalicarsi)
• Egyptian Spice Market
• Historical Bazaars & Markets
• Top Street Markets
• Nightlife Master Guide
• Best Pub Crawl
• Best Rooftop Rest. & Bars
• Best Irish Pubs
• Best Wine Houses
• Best Night Clubs
• Theme Parks
• Families & Kids
• Bosphorus Cruises
• Turkish Bath – Hammam
• Best Beaches
• Cruise Ship Passengers
• Istanbul on a Budget
• Dining Master Guide
• Best Restaurants
• Michelin-starred Restaurants
• Best Kebab Restaurants
• Best Meat & Steak Restaurants
• Best Ottoman Cuisine Restaurants
• Best Seafood Restaurants
• Best Italian Restaurants
• Best Japanese Restaurants
• Best Sushi Restaurants & Bars
• Best Veggie Restaurants
• Best Bosphorus Restaurants
• Best Restaurants in Sultanahmet
• Best Restaurants in Taksim
• Best Restaurants in Karakoy
• Best Restaurants in Besiktas
• Best Restaurants in Sisli
• Best Restaurants in Fatih
• Best Restaurants in Sariyer
• Best Restaurants in Kadikoy
• Breakfast & Brunch
• Best Street Food
• Turkish Coffee
• Bosphorus Strait
• Best of Bosphorus Cruises
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
• Bosphorus Sunset Cruise
• Best Cruise Companies
• Which Cruise to Take?
• Cruise Prices
• Bosphorus Cruise with Kids
• Private Bosphorus Yacht Cruise
• Princes’ Islands Yacht Cruise
• Tips for Booking
• Hagia Sophia
• Topkapi Palace
• Basilica Cistern
• Dolmabahce Palace
• Galata Tower
• Maiden’s Tower
• Whirling Dervishes Show
• Rhythm of the Dance Show
• Istanbul Tourist Pass

Istanbul E-Pass

• Istanbul Welcome Card
• Istanbul Museum Pass
• Best English Guided Tours
• Best Sightseeing Tours
• Best Attraction Tickets
• Top 15 Bosphorus Cruises
• City Sightseeing Bus
• Best City Walking Tours
• Istanbul Aquarium
• Miniaturk Museum
• Sea Life Aquarium
• Madame Tussauds Wax
• Must do day trips
• Cappadocia from Istanbul
• Pamukkale from Istanbul
• Ephesus from Istanbul
• Gobeklitepe from Istanbul
• Places to See Guide
• One Day Itinerary
• 3-Days Itinerary
• Top 10 Sights
• Best Views of the City
• Instagrammable Places
• Top Hidden Gems
• Top Museums
• Palaces & Pavilions
• Towers & Fortresses
• Fountains & Cisterns
• Squares & Streets
• Parks & Gardens
• Hair Transplant
• Top Treatment & Services
• Dental Implants
• Dental Veneers
• Hollywood Smile
• Plastic Surgery Aesthetics
• Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)
• All Breast Aesthetics
• Breast Augmentation
• Breast Lift
• Breast Reduction
• Facelift & Necklift
• Eyelid Surgery
• Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
• Mommy Makeover
• Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
• Laser, Vaser Liposuction
• Post-Bariatric Body Lifting
• Bariatric Surgery
• Gastric Balloon
• Gastric Botox
• Sleeve Gastrectomy
• Botox & Fillers
• Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty
• Stem Cell Treatment
• PRP Treatment
• Beauty Centers & Care
• Laser Hair Removal
• Microblading & Eyebrow Tattooing
• IVF & Fertility
• Aesthetic Gynecology
• Hymenoplasty
• Labiaplasty
• Urology Treatments
• Erectile Dysfunction Treatment
• P-Shot (Priapus Shot)
• Penile Prosthesis
• Laser Eye Surgery
• Oncology Treatment
• Medical Check-Ups
• Medical Laboratories
• Where to Stay Master Guide
• Top Luxury Istanbul Hotels
• Top Sultanahmet hotels
• Top Taksim Hotels
• Top Galata & Karakoy Hotels
• Top Besiktas Hotels
• Top Kadikoy Hotels
• Top Hostels Backpackers
• Hotels Near Galata Tower
• Hotels near New Istanbul Airport
• Hotels near Sabiha Gokcen Airport
• Istanbul in a Nutshell
• Top Reasons to Visit
• Best Time to Visit
• Cost of Visit
• Hours & Admissions
• Istanbul by Months
• Top Festivals & Events
• Top Event Venues
• Public Holidays
• New Year’s Eve
• Istanbul during Ramadan
• Public Transportation
• IstanbulKart (Public Transport)
• Istanbul Taxi Guide
• Car Rentals
• Galataport (Cruise Port)
• Luggage Storage Service
• New Istanbul Airpt. (IST)
• Sabiha Gokcen Airpt. (SAW)
• Airport Transfers
• Istanbul Airport to City Center
• Sabiha G. Airport to City Center
• HAVAIST Airport Shuttles
• WiFi, Internet & Phones
• Accessible Istanbul
• Moving to Istanbul

Insider Advice: Kickstart your Istanbul adventure with the Istanbul E-Pass or Istanbul Tourist Pass . These passes provide free access to around 70+ top attractions, tours and essential local services in the city with around 70% savings .

If you think you’ll feel tired of reading this long page with our detailed explanations, and trust our guidance, than please just print out the “Typical Itinerary Schedules” with time tables under each day, also scroll down the bottom of the page and read the “Summary of All” section .

Before You Arrive in Istanbul

We recommend you to have some essential information first, when spending 3 days in Istanbul. Make sure you read our pages below.

• How to get from New Istanbul airport to city center or Sabiha Gokcen airport to city center quickly?
• How to get around the city easily?
• How to obtain IstanbulKart , city’s public transport card?
• Where to find discounted attraction tickets , and skip the lines, best guided tours , or sightseeing tours ?
• What are the popular Istanbul Attractions Opening Hours & Admissions ?
• The best area to stay in Istanbul .

General Map of Top Sights

Below you can see the top attractions and sights of the city from an aerial view, with top neighborhoods. You can have a general idea of how to get around.

3 Days in Istanbul: Day 1

Typical itinerary: exploring the old city.

• 09:00-10:00 > Tour of Hagia Sophia (must-see)
• 10:30-12:00 > Tour of Topkapi Palace (must-see)
• 12:30-13:30 > Lunch
• 13:30-14:00 > Tour of Basilica Cistern (must-see)
• 14:00-15:30 > Tour of Sultanahmet Square & Blue Mosque (must-see)
• 15:30-16:00 > Tour of Grand Palace Mosaics Museum (optional)
• 16:00-17:00 > Tour of Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts (optional)
• 17:00-18:00 > Tour of Istanbul Archaeology Museums (optional)
• 18:00-18:45 > Rest in a cafe
• 18:45-19:30 > Head out to Kabatas
• 20:00-23:30 > “Bosphorus Dinner Cruise” or “A Night in Taksim”

On your first Istanbul day, we recommend you to discover the old city. Dating back to 685 B.C., and was the capital for many civilizations such as the Romans, Byzantine and Ottoman Empire for ages, the Sultanahmet neighborhood, is where all tourists head for most.

With all the sightseeing heavyweights packed together with must-see mosques, museums, palaces, Sultanahmet is a natural magnet to millions of tourists in Istanbul. The relatively traffic free region makes it easy to explore around on foot and by tram.

If you stay in Taksim hotels, you can take funicular from Taksim Square and reach Kabatas tram station in 5 minutes. And than take the tram to Sultanahmet (20 minutes).

You are in Sultanahmet now and as you are energetic and before get tired, we recommend you to visit the two must-see sights here first, the Hagia Sophia Museum and Topkapi Palace Museum .

We Highly Recommend These Fantastic Night-time Activities

Tour of hagia sophia, 09:00 – 10:00.

Location: Sultanahmet Time to Spend: 1 hour

This place is what every Istanbul itinerary has for sure. If you had just one day in Istanbul the world-famous Hagia Sophia would be the first stop. Dating back to 325, it is a former church, museum and now mosque and declared as one of the world’s greatest architectural works and accepted as the 8th wonder of the world.

It’s like stepping into the holy world of Christianity and Islam, merged on the shell-like apse and under an impressive dome, in a mysterious and mystical ambiance, and a wide range of architectural and art works coming from thousands of years.

Such as the golden Christian mosaics and colorful frescoes from the Byzantine era. Hagia Sophia’s mosaics depict the Christian scenes.

We recommend the below ticket options for the great value for money.

• Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets (fastest option and cheapest price on net)
• Combo: Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia Tour (one of the best)
• Hagia Sophia Tour with Historian Guide (if you want a pro-guide with you)
• Combo Ticket & Tour ( all in one - Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern, our favorite , no need to look for else, trust us)
• Hagia Sophia: Guided Highlights Tour and In-App Audio Guide (great one)
• Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour (good one)

Wanna learn more about Hagia Sophia?

After your Hagia Sophia visit, head out to Topkapi Palace on foot (5 minutes) and get to the Imperial Gate of the palace.

Tour of Topkapi Palace

10:30 – 12:00.

Location: Sultanahmet Time to Spend: 1,5 hours

You’ll admire Topkapi Palace Museum  and its famous Harem section and have a detailed look at the rooms, gardens, galleries, collections and the decoration from the past and today.

It houses the finest samples of seal, book binding, jewelry and box craftsmanship as well as inscriptions, as well as the  finest collection of Chinese porcelain  in the world.

Topkapi Palace is a giant complex and you’ll need about at least 1,5 to 2 hours to have a complete tour.

• Skip-the-Line Admission ticket to Topkapi Palace & Harem Section (One of the best and cheapest price on net)
• Topkapi Palace Ticket, Tour, Audio App (great one, guide and audio app will lead you for all)
• Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Historian Guide (if you want a pro-guide with you inc. Harem)
• Combo Ticket & Tour ( all top-3 one - Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern, our favorite , no need to look for else, trust us)
• Istanbul Must See Highlights Tour (another combo with Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque & Bosphorus Cruise)
• Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace Half Day Tour (good one)
• Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket (good one)

Wanna learn more about Topkapi Palace?

12:30 – 13:30

You should be hungry now, don’t you? You can find loads of tourist cafes and restaurants along the Sultanahmet Square and along the tram road.

We recommend Historical 1920 Sultanahmet Koftecisi  (Divan Yolu Str., No: 12) to taste the delicious  grills meat balls  and the  sweet Semolinacake . Expect to spend about  €8,00  a person for this menu.

As you just finished touring Topkapi Palace, you can also have lunch in one of the quality restaurants overlooking the Marmara Sea, inside the Topkapi Palace.

After lunch, head out to Basilica Cistern on foot, situated about 150 meters from Hagia Sophia.

Tour of Basilica Cistern

13:30 – 14:00.

Location: Sultanahmet Time to Spend: 30 minutes

The two  Medusa Heads , which are used as supports under the two columns at the northwest edge of the cistern, take the most interest and attracts the visitors.

• Skip-the-Line Tickets to Basilica Cistern (quick entrance + 30 mins. with guide)
• Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Tickets + Tour (quick entrance + 30 mins. with guide)
• Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Tickets + Tour (another quick entrance + 30 mins. with guide)
• Combo Ticket & Tour ( all top-3 one - Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern, our favorite , no need to look for else)
• Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide (another great one with guide)

Wanna learn more about Basilica Cistern?

After your Basilica Cistern tour, head out to Sultanahmet Square on foot (5 minutes) and get to the Imperial Gate of the palace.

Sultanahmet Square & Blue Mosque

14:00 – 15:30.

You can continue your afternoon by exploring the Sultanahmet Square on foot. Once being a Byzantium hippodrome from the 4th century, the square itself hosts the famous historic places and sights that include; the Egyptian Obelisk , the  Serpentine Column , the  Colossus  or the  Column of Costantine Porphyrgenitus  and the  German Fountain .

Optional Sights & Attractions

15:30 – 18:45.

Location: Sultanahmet Time to Spend: 3 hours 15 minutes

After the Sultanahmet Square & Blue Mosque visit, you can continue exploring the Sultanahmet neighborhood and the old city.

We think that now you can be kinda tired of exploring the old city with all these tours of the museums since early morning, and would want to stop entering the rest of the sights.

You just would want to have a long rest in one of the pretty cafes or restaurants in the area, have a snack or drink with Turkish bagel, tea or Turkish coffee, and when you feel recharged, you can continue exploring the area on foot without any museum visits.

If you think you are strong enough to explore about all the remaining sights in Sultanahmet until dinner time, than we can recommend the below museums. They are all within walking distance from the Sultanahmet Square.

• 15:30-16:00 > Tour of Great Palace Mosaics Museum (behind the Sultanahmet Mosque)
• 16:00-17:00 > Tour of Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts (across the Sultanahmet Mosque)
• 17:00-18:00 > Tour of Istanbul Archaeology Museums (between Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace)

Night-time Activities

After your Sultanahmet day out , now you can plan your dinner and night-time activities .

We recommend you to reward yourself with a Bosphorus dinner cruise with entertainment .

Or have a lively night out at the city’s popular Taksim or Galata neighborhoods . You can check best rooftop bars &restaurants , bars , Irish pubs , night clubs of Istanbul.

You can access these attractions by tram from Sultanahmet.

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Entertainment

20:00 – 23:00.

Location: Kabatas Pier Time to Spend: 3 hours

This is one of the best Bosphorus night cruises with dinner and entertainment. Take in sights of the Bosphorus on board a mega yacht. Enjoy the city view with a 3-course meal while you listen to live music and watch stage performances at private tables. You can easily see that this Mega Lufer Yacht sells the most and has over 10,000 five star reviews.

Hotel pickup and drop-off is from Sultanahmet, Taksim, Sirkeci, Sütlüce, Kağıthane, Kabataş, Eminönü, Şişli, Aksaray, Karaköy, Levent and Beyoğlu areas. Please wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.

Book Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table

Wanna learn more about Bosphorus Dinner Cruise?

3 Days in Istanbul: Day 2

Typical itinerary: exploring the modern city.

• 09:00-10:30 > Tour of Dolmabahce Palace (must-visit)
• 10:30-11:00 > Head out to Taksim
• 10:45-11:00 > Stroll around Taksim Square
• 11:00-15:00 > Explore Istiklal Street (must-see) inc. Lunch
• 15:00-18:30 > Galata Tower (must-see), explore Galata & Karakoy (must-see) inc. Dinner
• 18:30-19:00 > Head out to Sirkeci
• 19:00-20:30 > Whirling Dervishes Show in Sirkeci (optional) or “A Night in Galata/Karakoy”
• 21:00-01:00 > Pub Crawl in Taksim (optional)

On your second Istanbul day, we recommend you to discover the modern part of the city, the Beyoglu district .

With its traces of the European architecture of 100 years, Beyoglu and its lively neighborhoods are a must visit. Taksim , Karakoy , Galata & Tophane are the most popular tourist zones in the region.

If you stay in Sultanahmet hotels, you can take tram to Karakoy (20 minutes) or Kabatas (30 minutes) to access the region.

Dolmabahce Palace Museum

09:00 – 10:30.

Location: Kabatas/Besiktas Time to Spend: 1,5 hours

Dolmabahce Palace Museum is a glorious palace from the Ottoman era. Situated on the banks of Bosphorus between Kabatas and Besiktas, it was the residence of the last six Ottoman Sultans, and Ataturk, the founder of the Turkish Republic.

The giant crystal stairs and chandeliers, large oil paintings and armchairs are very attractive. The precious watches of the palace will take your interest.

• Dolmabahce Palace Admission and Guided Tour (superb one, quick entrance, pro guide will lead you for all)
• Dolmabahce Palace Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio (superb one comes with audio app )
• Guided Istanbul Tour: Bosphorus Cruise with Dolmabahce Palace Ticket (very good combo)
• Dolmabahce Palace Entry with Guided Tour Skip The Ticket Line (good one)

Wanna learn more about Dolmabahce Palace Museum?

After Dolmabahce Palace tour, head out to Taksim . From Dolmabahce Palace, walk 150 meters to Kabatas and take funicular (5 minutes) or public bus (15 minutes).

Taksim Square + Istiklal Street

10:45 – 15:00.

Location: Taksim Time to Spend: 4 hours 15 minutes

Taksim  is a cosmopolitan region, communications hub and an important commercial, entertainment & shopping area for the tourists for having a nice Istanbul city walking tour.

You can stroll around the Taksim Square , watch the crowd, take photos and than pass through the famous Istiklal Street .

You can visit the fantastic Madame Tussauds Wax Museum , the amazing  St. Anthony of Padua Church  and  Pera Museum there.

In between strolling the Istiklal Street and enjoying the lively atmosphere, you should have a lunch in one of the pretty restaurants along the way.

When you come to the end of the Istiklal Street, there it comes the pretty Tunel Square leading to the famous Galata Tower , by a 10 minutes downhill walk from the Galip Dede ramp .

You’ll also find lovely music stores, art galleries and souvenir shops when you walk down from the Galip Dede ramp. The Galata Mevlevi Lodge Museum is also situated at the beginning of this ramp. You can visit the museum if you think you’ll have enough time.

Galata Tower + Galata & Karakoy

15:00 – 18:30.

Location: Galata Time to Spend: 3 hours 30 minutes

Heading downwards from the Galip Dede ramp, you are now in the Galata neighborhood , famous for its narrow streets housing variety of lovely cafes, restaurants, and of course the very famous Galata Tower , topped with a distinctive witch’s-hat roof, and one of the most impressive and popular landmarks of the city.

After you spend about 30 minutes on top of the Galata Tower , you can continue exploring the surroundings, lively streets with great outdoor cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops of Galata and nearby Karakoy neighborhood by the sea shore.

• Galata Tower Skip-the-Line Ticket & Audio Guide (superb, cheapest price on net)

Wanna learn more about Galata Tower?

Make sure you have a dinner in one of the restaurants, cafes or rooftop restaurants with Bosphorus views in the region.

After Dinner Activities

For night-time activities, we recommend you to see the Whirling Dervishes Show which is a unique to Istanbul and popular tourist attraction, and than continue the night at the city’s popular Taksim or Galata neighborhoods . You can check best rooftop bars &restaurants , bars , Irish pubs , night clubs of Istanbul.

If you are in the city on Friday or Saturday night , than we also recommend you to take a Pub Crawl along the lively bars of Taksim with a local guide.

19:00 – 20:30

Location: Sirkeci Time to Spend: 1-1,5 hours

There are  two popular venues  that you can watch this show. Book your tickets online in advance as they are selling out quickly.

Buy Whirling Dervishes Show Tickets at Hodjapasha Culture Center

Buy whirling dervishes show tickets at orient express hall.

Wanna learn more about Whirling Dervishes Show?

21:00 – 01:00

Location: Taksim Time to Spend: 4 hours

Pub Crawl in Istanbul can be a perfect night out for you to avoid tourist traps, visit the best pubs, bars and clubs in the city, and enjoy lots of freebies like free beer & shots, and free entry to best party spots to experience a proper nightlife in the city like a local and have an intense night-time activity.

You’ll meet other clubbers who are up for an intense night out in Istanbul, and with guides who know the city’s best spots. You won’t regret it, believe us.

Head out to Taksim and meet your English speaking guide  in front of the  Bunk Hostel , Papa Roncalli street No:34, Sisli (1 km. walking distance from Taksim square) ( see on Google maps )

Wanna learn more about Istanbul Pub Crawl?

3 Days in Istanbul: Day 3

Typical itinerary: bosphorus, shopping & relaxing day out.

• 09:00-10:30 > Bosphorus Cruise (must-take)
• 10:45-11:45 > Spice Bazaar (must-visit)
• 12:00-13:15 > Lunch
• 13:15-13:45 > Head out to Beyazit
• 14:00-17:00 > Grand Bazaar (must-visit)
• 17:00-17:15 > Head out to Cemberlitas
• 17:30-19:00 > Turkish Bath (Hammam) + Massage Theraphy (optional)
• 19:30-20:30 > Dinner
• Get back to your hotel and prepare for your departure

So this is your third and last day in Istanbul, and we recommend you to have a relaxing day out and enjoy the tourist shopping scene of the city, plus Bosphorus .

Yes, you should visit the two tourist centers for shopping in Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar and the Egyptian Spice Market , and finally experience a very relaxing and unique Turkish Bath and massage therapy.

Here your final day in Istanbul begins.

Bosphorus Cruise

Location: Eminonu Pier Time to Spend: 1,5 hours

This is a popular, unique and fantastic forms of entertainment and sightseeing during your Istanbul stay. It is also one of the best ways to discover and enjoy the most beautiful sights and sounds of the city over the sea. Typical boat tours start from the Eminonu pier  in every hour .

You’ll be able to explore the city at your own pace on board of the boat, and enjoy all the famous landmarks on the Boshphorus such as Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden’s Tower and the Bosphorus Bridge.

If you are looking for a great Bosphorus day or night out, don’t wanna read the whole page, trust our recommendations, save time and money, than you can feel free to check out the below good value for money Bosphorus cruises from the trusted providers with very good traveler ratings.

• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table (the best dinner cruise , over 12.000 reviews, check them and enjoy)
• Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht 1 (the best sunset , on yacht, don't miss)
• Bosphorus on Yacht Cruise with Stopover on Asian Side (great with stopover at Kanlica , we highly recommend)
• Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks (superb yacht cruise)
• Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht 2  (another great sunset , on yacht, don't miss)
• Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show (superb dinner cruise on a catamaran , don't miss!)
• All Inclusive Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Private Table (great dinner cruise, check it out)
• Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht 3  (superb sunset , on yacht, don't miss)
• Maiden's Tower Ticket w/ Transfer & Audio Guide (cheapest price, the only Maiden's Tower fast track entry online ticket)

Wanna learn more about Bosphorus Cruise?

Egyptian Spice Bazaar

10:45 – 11:15.

Location: Eminonu Time to Spend: 30 minutes

The historical  Egyptian Spice Bazaar is a colorful and mystical covered spice market lined with spice stalls in  Eminonu  coast, near the  Yeni Mosque . You are able to find about every kind of  herbs and spices  at the market, and as well as ingredients for cooking, Turkish delight and Turkish coffee .

It is a perfect place with the tourists to end their Istanbul visit by shopping for some souvenirs for their beloved ones before leaving Istanbul.

You can have your lunch in one of the good restaurant in Eminonu.

After lunch, take tram to Beyazit and head out to Grand Bazaar .

Grand Bazaar

14:00 – 17:00.

Location: Beyazit Time to Spend: 3 hours

Covering an area of 47,000 m2, the Grand Bazaar is a plus 550 years old covered market, also one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

Downwards from Beyazit, you’ll come up to the Laleli neighborhood that is home to numerous touristic stores, markets, designer shops selling textile goods especially to the Russian and old Eastern Block countries, as well as many cafes, restaurants, hotels and pensions along the back streets.

The famous Koska Helvacisi is situated in the main road of Laleli. You should visit here and buy Turkish delight .

After the Grand Bazaar and around shopping tour, you can now plan your time before dinner.

We highly recommend you to take a Turkish Bath experience for an amazing relaxation. If You have so much shopping items with you, than you can go to your hotel, leave your belongings, and than go out for Turkish bath.

• Turkish Bath

17:30 – 19:00

Location: Cemberlitas Time to Spend: 1 hour

It will a be unique experience, as well as you will be freshened up.

We recommend you to visit the historical Cemberlitas Hamam , situated in the Cemberlitas neighborhood, close to the Grand Bazaar. You can walk or take tram to get there.

• Turkish Bath at Cemberlitas Hamam by Getyourguide
• Famous Hurrem Sultan Hamam Experience (on the Sultanahmet Square , on the site of the ancient public baths from 100-200 AD)
• Turkish Bath & Spa at Catma Mescit Hamam (great experience at historical hamam close to Galata Tower )
• Grand Hotel de Pera Turkish Bath (very good one along Istiklal Street )
• Doubletree by Hilton Sirkeci Hotel Turkish Bath (another very good one along Sirkeci )
• Turkish Bath Package at Beyoglu Aga Hamami (very good one too)

Wanna learn more about Turksh Bath & Hammams in Istanbul?

After your Turkish bath experience, you can have your dinner in one of the good restaurants near your hotel.

And after dinner, you can rest in one of the cafes or pubs around and plan your departure to do list.

So, that’s 3 perfect days in Istanbul, hope you like it!

Insider Tips: Transport + Tickets + Skip the Lines

* You can explore the majority of the sights and sounds of the city on foot. You will mostly need to take a tram as for transportation in between old and modern city.

* So get an IstanbulKart as you can have access all the public transportation network of Istanbul.

* Our 3-Days Istanbul itinerary include: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Palace, Blue Mosque (free of charge), Istanbul Archaeology Museums, Great Palace Mosaics Museum, Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts, Bosphorus Cruise, Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, Pub Crawl, Spice Bazaar (free of charge), Grand Bazaar (free of charge) and Turkish Bath.

* You have limited time and you should buy fast track entry tickets to avoid the long queues and get skip the lines access on several top sights such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Palace, etc.

* There are also guided tours with professional local guides that you can save yourself from the beggars, and people coming beside and ask for helping with guidance around or for money.

* And with a guide you will learn each detail and story, and have a detailed look at the architecture, mosaics, construction, galleries of the sights coming from the thousands of years.

* You can general admission tickets at ticket windows on location but it will cost you about at least 1 to 2 hours waiting in the line. And this will effect your future sightseeing calendar.

* We recommend you buy your tickets online. This is by far the easiest and great value for money.

* Below, you’ll find our pick of the best and great value for money discount cards, and attraction tickets. You can be sure that we only suggest the proven and top rated ones with travelers’ comments.

* Our website visitors will also get extra 5% discount in some of the tours and tickets.

Discount Cards and Combo Tickets Advice

Istanbul welcome card premium.

Valid for 7 days, free delivery to your hotel/airport pick-up and includes; Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace fast track entry tickets with 30 minutes guidance and Audio Guide App in 10 languages, Istanbulkart with 10 Rides, Bosphours Cruise (1,5 hours), Digital Guide Book and City Map .

Buy Istanbul Welcome Card Premium

Our website visitors will get 5% extra discount.

Istanbul Welcome Card Deluxe

Valid for 7 days, free delivery to your hotel/airport pick-up and includes; fast track entry tickets to 12 Museums (Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Harem, Chora Museum, Fethiye (Pammakristos) Museum, Galata Mevlevi Lodge Museum, Great Palace Mosaics Museum, Hagia Irene, Istanbul Archaeological Museums, Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts Museum, Rumeli Fortress, Museum of Science and Technology in Islam, Bonus: Basilica Cistern), Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern guided tour , Istanbulkart with 20 Rides, Bosphorus Cruise (1,5 hours), Digital Guide Book and City Map .

Buy Istanbul Welcome Card Deluxe

Combo: hagia sophia + topkapi palace + basilica cistern.

This is a great combo ticket. Our favorite. You can visit these top 3 most visited sights in Sultanahmet with this combo ticket, with skip the lines access. Great value for money. Book your tickets online in advance as they are selling out quickly.

Buy Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern Combo Ticket

Click the red button to buy Combo online tickets and skip the lines. Our website visitors will get 5% extra discount.

This is a  digital  travel discount pass that is  delivered to your phone upon your purchase online, and will be ready to use at your arrival. It includes  35+ attractions  and  services including skip the line access and guided museum tours, dinner cruise, hop-on & hop-off Bus, airport transfer, etc.

Buy Your Istanbul E-Pass

Guided istanbul highlights tours advice.

We recommend this kind of tours, especially for first time visitors. You are able to make the most of the city’s sights and sounds with a private guide and save yourself from the hassle of making an ideal one day to 3 days plan. All will be made by professionals and you’ll get skip the lines tickets, as well as pick-up and drop-off hotel transfer.

Highlights of Istanbul: 1 or 2-Day Private Guided Tour

This is Get Your Guide’s top selling and certified tour , which means it has gained one of the best traveler experiences.

You’ll discover the magic of Istanbul on a private 1 or 2-day walking tour with skip the line tickets. Enjoy a river cruise and guided tour of the city highlights, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, Dolmabahce Palace, and Istiklal Street.

Duration: 7 hours – 2 days Live tour guide: English, Spanish, German, Japanese Pick-up from the front desk of your hotel in Istanbul

Book Highlights of Istanbul Guided Tour

Just click the red button above to buy your 1 or 2 Day Private Guided Tour of Istanbul online. We recommend you book in advance to guarantee your place.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts

Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Tour

This is also Get Your Guide’s top selling tour . Has great traveler ratings and comments.

You’ll see the sights of Istanbul that most interest you on a customized tour with private guide. Marvel at some of the city’s most significant sights including Topkapi Palace, Chora Church, Basilica Cistern, Fener-Balat neighboorhood, and many more.

Duration: 7 hours – 3 days Live tour guide: Spanish, English, French, German, Italian Pickup is available from centrally-located hotels in Istanbul, by your guide on foot.

Book Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Guided Tour

Just click the red button above to buy your 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Tour of Istanbul online. We recommend you book in advance to guarantee your place.

Summary of All

* An ideal city itinerary should cover the top sights and attractions plus shopping.

* We designed out Istanbul 3-Days Itinerary as exploring the Old City on the 1st day, Modern City on the 2nd day, and Bosphorus + Shopping day out on the last day.

* Day-1 includes: Sultanahmet Square , Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Istanbul Archaeology Museums, Great Palace Mosaics Museum, Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts, Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Entertainment

* Day-2 includes: Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Galata Tower, Galata & Karakoy neighborhoods, Whirling Dervishes Show in Hodjapasha Culture Center or Orient Express Hall , Pub Crawl.

* Day-3 includes: Bosphorus Cruise , Spice Bazaar, Grand Bazaar, Turkish Bath .

* We recommend you buy fast track entry tickets/guided tours/discount cards to avoid the long queues, and get great value for money service.

* Istanbul Welcome Card Premium is a good choice for the ones who only want to visit the couple of top museums such as Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia. It also includes Bosphorus Cruise and 10 rides public transportation, plus free delivery to your hotel.

* Istanbul Welcome Card Deluxe is a good choice for the ones who want to visit top museums as much as they can. It also includes Bosphorus Cruise and 20 rides public transportation, plus free delivery to your hotel.

* Istanbul E-Pass  with +35 attractions and services, is also a good choice for the ones who are energetic and can explore about all the Istanbul attractions.

* If you want to buy attractions tickets separately, than we recommend the Combo Tickets for Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern , digital tickets with no regrets.

* You can see the great value for money separate tickets for other attractions, under each attraction explanation.

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Hello, Could you please let me know what will be closed on 1st and 2nd May?

This is great, really helps. We are planning to be there in Feb 2022, obviously will be colder. What do you recommend we change from the itinerary? Or any other advice or suggestions you may have. Also how cold does it actually get and what about restaurants, are they all closed for outdoor dining? Thanks

Hi Mujtaba Ali, thank you, well it can be cold in February you should bring your coat for sure. Itinerary is enough, no change for me but you are free to do anything you may feel exciting or fun. You can get outdoor dining for sure, no problem as majority of the cafes and restaurants have their heating system outdoors. Best wishes

awesome and detailed description

Thank you very much! Best

Hello, We are coming in Istanbul dated 05-10 September and wanted a tour . Please can you give some information . Thank you .

Hello, We are coming in Istanbul due 20-27 December and wanted a tour . Please can you give some information . Thank you .

Hi Era, you’re welcome. I did send an itinerary to your email via our experts. Have a nice trip

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Les plus belles choses à faire à Istanbul en fonction de vos envies

Istanbul compte autant de bons hôtels que de restaurants, bars, lieux de sortie et boutiques de premier ordre. Ajoutez à cela une architecture exceptionnelle, un riche héritage culturel et une scène artistique dynamique, et vous aurez tous les ingrédients d'un séjour aussi inoubliable que reposant.

L'architecture d'Istanbul

En termes de conception urbaine, İstanbul est un exemple à suivre. Oubliez Chicago et New York avec leurs gratte-ciel, ou Londres avec sa grande roue et sa tour de l'horloge trapue. À İstanbul, vous contemplerez des minarets délicats s'élançant vers le ciel, des coupoles couronnant des collines, des tours médiévales élégantes et austères offrant une vue imprenable sur l'eau. La ville présente une gamme architecturale des plus riches : des cathédrales et des églises byzantines côtoient des mosquées, des medreseler (écoles coraniques) et des hamamlar (hammams) ; de superbes yali du XIXe siècle ornent les deux rives du Bosphore ; et les bâtiments néoclassiques des ambassades ponctuent les boulevards de Beyoğlu. Les bâtiments de la deuxième moitié du XXe siècle n'ayant guère d'intérêt, İstanbul mise tout sur l'ancien. Ainsi, la municipalité a mis en place un programme de restauration destiné à préserver le patrimoine urbain et tente de promulguer des lois visant à protéger son magnifique panorama. Pour autant ce décor historique n'a rien d'un parc à thème : les Stambouliotes continuent de prier dans les mosquées anciennes, d'habiter les maisons en bois, d'installer des restaurants dans les medreseler , d'oublier leurs soucis dans les hamamlar et d'assister à des cocktails dans les ambassades. L'actuelle İstanbul est un hommage vivant aux architectes et aux mécènes qui ont contribué à sa forme contemporaine. Elle témoigne également que les gens d'autrefois avaient l'art d'ériger des constructions grandioses.

Les plus anciens bâtiments encore debout se situent dans la vieille ville, qui compte notamment un certain nombre d'églises, citernes, forteresses et remparts byzantins. De cette période datent aussi des places comme l'hippodrome et des avenues cérémonielles à l'image de Divan Yolu. Beyoğlu conserve des traces de la présence génoise remontant aux dernières années de l'Empire byzantin, ainsi que des monuments ottomans d'époques diverses. Enfin, les tentatives de développer un mouvement d'architecture nationale au début du XXe siècle sont visibles de part et d'autre de la Corne d'Or (Haliç). Si ces quartiers attirent la plupart des touristes, İstanbul réserve bien d'autres trésors, disséminés un peu partout. Ce sont toutes les témoins visibles de son histoire, déposées en strates successives, qui la rendent fascinante. Le visiteur se prend ainsi à jouer à l'archéologue amateur à chaque fois qu'il quitte sa chambre d'hôtel.

Le meilleur de l'architecture byzantine

• Aqueduc de Valens
• Sainte-Sophie
• Citerne-Basilique
• Petite Aya Sofya
• Murs de Théodose

Le meilleur de l'architecture ottomane

• Mosquée Atik Valide
• Palais de Beylerbeyi
• Mosquée bleue
• Mosquée de Soliman
• Palais de Topkapi

Les boissons locales

Bien qu'İstanbul soit la plus grande ville d'un pays majoritairement musulman, ses habitants n'aiment rien tant que de boire un verre ou deux – surtout lorsqu'il s'agit de la boisson locale, le raki (eau-de-vie à l'anis). Si l'atmosphère alcoolisée des meyhaneler (tavernes) n'en est pas une preuve suffisante, une incursion dans la scène florissante des bars de Beyoğlu vous convaincra. Le goût du raki doit être apprivoisé, mais son parfum anisé n'est pas désagréable. Semblable à l'ouzo grec, il se boit dans des verres hauts et étroits, pur ou avec de l'eau. Si vous prenez des glaçons, ajoutez-les après l'eau pour ne pas altérer sa saveur. À consommer avec modération, toutefois, car il s'agit d'un alcool fort et les Stambouliotes n'apprécient guère l'ivresse publique. Si vous préférez les breuvages plus classiques, le vin turc (jarap) s'améliore d'année en année. Les bons crus comprennent du chardonnay Sarafin, le cabernet sauvignon de Karma et le Doluca Kav Tuğra rouge. Pour commander un verre de blanc, de rouge ou de rosé, demandez bir bardak beyaz/kirmizi/pembe jarap .

Les bières locales (Efes Pilsen et Tuborg) bien fraîches constituent la boisson de prédilection des repaires bobos de Beyoğlu, tandis que les cocktails préparés avec art et nonchalance ont la faveur des bars installés sur les toits en terrasse du quartier et des discothèques du Bosphore fréquentées par la jet-set. Autrement, les pittoresques çay bahçesiler (jardins de thé) de la vieille ville servent du thé dans des verres délicats en forme de tulipe. Le çay ne se prend qu'avec du sucre – bien utile pour contrer les effets d'une longue infusion, même si vous pouvez toujours tenter de demander le vôtre açik (moins fort). Mais pas question de demander du lait sous peine de susciter la perplexité, voire l'hilarité, du garçon.

Curieusement, le café turc (turk kahve) n'est pas très répandu. Épais et corsé, il s'avale en deux gorgées. Vous pouvez le choisir çok jekerli (très sucré), orta jekerli (moyennement sucré), az jekerli (légèrement sucré) ou sade (sans sucre). Le verre d'eau qui l'accompagne sert à rincer le palais pour mieux apprécier l'arôme. De son côté, le café à l'italienne connaît un engouement impressionnant, au point que nous avons recensé lors de notre enquête sept chaînes multinationales spécialisées, rien que dans istiklal Caddesi.

Les meilleurs cafés et jardins de thé typiques

• Derviş Aile Çay Bahçesi
• Şark Kahvesi
• Set Üstü Çay Bahçesi
• Yeni Marmara

Les plus beaux panoramas

• Hotel Nomade Terrace Bar
• Leb-i Derya

La cuisine à Istanbul 

Plus que tout au monde, les Stambouliotes adorent manger. Loin d'être un simple apport énergétique, la nourriture est une célébration de la communauté. Joyeux, agités et presque toujours collectifs, les repas se déroulent en grande pompe. Améliorée au fil des siècles, la gastronomie turque est plus révérée que n'importe quelle collection de musée, sans pour autant être prétentieuse. En effet, ce qui la distingue des autres cuisines nationales, c'est son côté rustique et franc. les mezze (hors-d'œuvre) et les kebabs sont simples, les salades nature et les fruits de mer sans sauce. les saveurs explosent dans la bouche car les plats mettent à l'honneur des ingrédients locaux toujours de saison. Un vrai bonheur pour les papilles.

Les spécialités servies dans les restaurants d'İstanbul sont les mêmes que dans le reste du pays, en mieux. La ville attire en effet les meilleurs chefs de Turquie désireux de perfectionner leur art et l'on y trouve le plus grand choix de cuisines régionales et étrangères. À Beyoğlu, chacun peut satisfaire ses goûts les plus variés, qu'il s'agisse de pâtes italiennes revisitées, d'un assortiment de mezze classique, de poisson frais grillé, de sushis ou de curry thaï. Et pour surprendre votre palais, rien de tel que la cuisine fusion innovante mitonnée par des chefs formés en Europe. Les tables les plus réputées se situent à Beyoğlu, où les meyhane (tavernes) proposent une succession de mezze chauds et froids, et les lokanta de délicieux plats anatoliens préparés d'avance. Le quartier abrite également les deux grands restaurants de style occidental d'İstanbul : Mikla et Changa.

Ailleurs, vous pourrez goûter le célèbre kebab national à Eminönü ou dîner dans un balık restoran (restaurant de poisson) le long du Bosphore. Les possibilités ne manquent pas. Afiyet olsun ! (Bon appétit !)

Les meilleures Meyhaneler

• Karaköy Lokantasi

Les meilleures tables de poisson

• Balikçi Sabahattin
• Tarihi Karaköy Balik Lokantasi

Les meilleures Lokanta

• Çiya Sofrasi
• Haci Abdullah

Les meilleurs restaurants de Kebabs

• Hamdi Et Lokantasi
• Zübeyir Ocakbaşi

Où faire son Shopping

Les accros du shopping se régaleront à İstanbul. S'il est impossible de parcourir chaque bazar et chaque galerie marchande, quelques jours suffisent pour succomber à la tentation et revenir avec un excédent de bagages.

Au fıl des siècles, les Stambouliotes sont passés maîtres dans l'art du commerce. En entrant dans n'importe quel magasin de tapis, vous devrez vous soumettre à tout un cérémonial de discussion et de marchandage autour d'un verre de thé avant de conclure, éventuellement, l'achat. Souvenirs bon marché ou véritables antiquités, il y en a pour toutes les bourses. Tapis, textiles, épices, savons à l'huile d'olive et bijoux abondent, mais on trouve aussi de la mode et des articles pour la maison qui n'ont rien à envier à ceux des « concept stores » de Paris ou de Londres. Le Grand Bazar (Kapali Çarsi) jouit d'une célébrité mondiale. Qu'il s'agisse de bijoux, maroquinerie, textiles ou céramiques, vous devrez toutefois fouiller parmi les babioles touristiques pour dénicher des articles de qualité. Et n'espérez pas faire des affaires, car les commerçants paient des loyers élevés et fixent leurs prix en conséquence.

Le bazar de l'Arasta, derrière la Mosquée bleue à Sultanahmet, ne manque pas de boutiques de tapis, de textiles et de céramiques haut de gamme – ses marchands se montrant peu insistants, allez-y pour faire du lèche-vitrines tranquillement. Entre le Grand Bazar et Eminönü, Tahtakale renferme le marché aux épices (Misir Çarsi). Avec Hasircilar Caddesi, non loin, c'est l'endroit idéal pour acheter des fruits secs, des épices et des lotions.

À Beyoğlu, istiklal Caddesi est bordée de chaînes d'habillement et de chaussures. À quelques pas, Çukurcuma abrite nombre des meilleurs antiquaires et magasins de bibelots de la ville. Les enclaves voisines de Galata et de Cihangir sont le repère des jeunes stylistes de mode et des créateurs de bijoux.

Les grands noms de la mode turque et les marques étrangères sont présents à Nişantasi et dans les centres commerciaux de Kanyon et d'istinye Park.

Les plus beaux textiles, vêtements et tapis

• Les kilims contemporains (tapis tissés) de Dhoku
• La mode turque actuelle de Gönül Paksoy et de Doors
• Les tapis de Cocoon et de la Mehmet Çetinkaya Gallery
• Les suzani ouzbeks de Muhlis Günbatti

Les plus beaux bijoux, antiquités et œuvres d'art

• Les bijoux en or de Sofa et de Phebus
• Les colliers et boucles d'oreilles en forme de tulipe de Design Zone
• Les miniatures ottomanes d'Artrium
• Les icônes russes et les calligraphies turques de Khaftan

Le meilleur de l'artisanat

• Les peştemal (serviettes de bain) en lin et coton d'Abdulla Natural Products, de Derviş, d'Yılmaz İpekçilik ou de Jennifer's Hamam
• Les bijoux, poupées et chapeaux en feutre de Cocoon et d'Ak Gümüş
• Les plats et coupes en céramique peints à la main d'İznik Classics & Tiles et SIR
• Le savon à l'huile d'olive d'Abdulla Natural Products et Derviş

Les meilleurs produits alimentaires

• Les baklavas de Karaköy Güllüoğlu
• Les fruits secs du Malatya Pazarı
• Les loukoums d'Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir et d'Hafız Mustafa Şekerlemeleri
• Les épices du marché aux épices

Istanbul Gays et lesbiennes

Il n'y a pas longtemps, la scène gay et lesbienne d'İstanbul était qualifiée de furtive et ennuyeuse. Elle a heureusement évolué ces dernières années, devenant mieux acceptée et gagnant en dynamisme. la seule différence avec la plupart des grandes capitales européennes réside dans le grand nombre de bars de travestis et la moindre présence des clubs cuir et fétichistes. Consultez le site Istanbul gay pour un aperçu général.

Un nouveau bar ou boîte à la mode semble ouvrir presque chaque semaine à Beyoğlu, principalement autour de la place de Taksim et dans istiklal Caddesi. Le Club 17 et le Love Dance Point font partie des lieux de prédilection de la communauté, mais de nombreux autres figurent dans la rubrique Gay & Lesbian du mensuel Time Out Istanbul .

Il existe un excellent hôtel tenu par un propriétaire gay, l'Eklektik Guesthouse ( 212-243 7446  ; www.eklektikgalata.com  ; Kadribey Cikmazi 4, Galata ; ch 95–125 € ; ), à Beyoğlu et un tour-opérateur spécialisé, Pride Travel ( 212-527 0671  ; www.turkey-gay-travel.com  ; 2e étage, Ateş Pasaji, incili Cavus Sokak 33, Sultanahmet ; 10h-18h lun-sam), à Sultanahmet. Les hammams, naguère repaires gays, évoluent depuis quelques années. Selon René Ames, auteur de la rubrique gay et lesbienne du magazine Time Out , la répression policière s'est récemment renforcée dans les hammams ; il affirme même que l'atmosphère homoérotique y a considérablement changé. Il recommande Yeşildirek Hamami, l'un des derniers hammams gays ayant résisté au climat actuel, mais il invite les visiteurs à la discrétion.

Les Hammams

Il serait dommage de quitter İstanbul sans avoir fait l'expérience du fameux hammam ou bain turc. Si vous comptez n'en fréquenter qu'un seul, nous vous conseillons les deux plus célèbres – le Cağaloğlu Hamami et le Çemberlitaş Hamami. Ce sont certes des lieux touristiques, mais ils occupent de magnifiques bâtiments ottomans, et vous ne vous y sentirez pas mal à l'aise, puisque la plupart des clients découvrent également les joies du hammam pour la première fois. Une fois le seuil franchi, à quoi devez-vous vous attendre ? D'abord, vous entrez dans le camekan (vestiaire), où vous pouvez vous déshabiller, ranger vos affaires, nouer autour de vos hanches le peştemal (serviette de bain) et enfiler une paire de nalin (sandales). Ensuite, un employé vous conduit jusqu'à la sicaklik (salle de vapeur), le cœur du hammam. Le plus économique consiste à utiliser le savon, le shampooing et la serviette que vous aurez apportés. Il est toutefois beaucoup plus agréable de s'étendre sur la göbektaşi (plate-forme en marbre chaude) où un employé vous aspergera d'eau chaude et vous frottera avec un kese (gant de crin). Après, il vous savonnera, vous rincera et vous lavera les cheveux. Une fois le récurage terminé, vous pourrez passer au massage. La règle veut que les hommes gardent en permanence leur peçtemal . Dans la section réservée aux femmes, la pudeur attendue varie considérablement – dans les hammams touristiques, vous pouvez conserver vos sous-vêtements, porter un maillot de bain ou vous dénuder entièrement.

İstanbul est le théâtre d'un culte particulier. Les adeptes du keyif , le farniente à la turque, deviennent chaque année plus nombreux et ont le don étrange de faire des émules parmi les visiteurs sans méfiance. Remarquez les vieux messieurs assis devant les boutiques, sur le pas des portes ou sur les bancs des parcs : ils profitent du soleil et observent le monde sans même lire le journal, parler politique ou écouter de la musique. En un mot, ils pratiquent le keyif . Idem pour les joueurs de backgammon, qui boivent du thé et saluent leurs connaissances d'un signe de tête mais n'émettent aucun son en-dehors du cliquetis des pions déplacés sur le plateau. Pour voir les adeptes du keyif à l'œuvre, il suffit de se rendre dans l'un des çay bahçesi (jardins de thé) où les Stambouliotes s'adonnent au narghilé, forme extrême du keyif . Méfiez-vous en particulier des fauteuils profonds des cafés de Tophane et du cadre ombragé des çay bahçesiler de la vieille ville. En commandant un narghilé, vous devez indiquer le tabac de votre choix. Beaucoup optent pour l' elma (mélange de tabac, de mélasse et de pomme), mais il est possible d'obtenir un tabac tömbeki (naturel). La pipe sera apportée à votre table et du charbon de bois incandescent placé au sommet pour la faire démarrer. On vous remettra aussi un embout jetable en plastique que vous enfilerez à l'extrémité du tuyau. Inhalez doucement – si l'eau bouillonne dans le gövde (corps de la pipe), c'est bon signe ! Attention, car vous pourriez bien y prendre goût.

Les meilleurs cafés à narghilé de la vieille ville

• Erenler Aile Çay Bahçesi
• Lale Bahçesi

Les meilleurs cafés à narghilé de beyoğlu

• Perla Kallâvi Nargileh Cafe
• Tophane Nargileh

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