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This magical meeting place straddling two continents has more top-notch attractions than it has minarets (and that's a lot).

Best Time to Visit

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Sultanahmet

Right in the heart of İstanbul’s historic center, this sacred Byzantine building remains an important symbol of power.

Topkapı Palace

Topkapı is the subject of more colourful stories than most of the world's museums put together. Libidinous sultans, ambitious courtiers, beautiful…

Kariye Mosque

İstanbul has more than its fair share of Byzantine monuments, but few are as drop-dead gorgeous as this mosaic- and fresco-laden church. Nestled in the…

Süleymaniye Mosque

The Süleymaniye crowns one of İstanbul's seven hills and dominates the Golden Horn, providing a landmark for the entire city. Though it's not the largest…

Basilica Cistern

This subterranean structure was commissioned by Emperor Justinian and built in 532. The largest surviving Byzantine cistern in İstanbul, it was…

Blue Mosque

İstanbul's most photogenic building was the grand project of Sultan Ahmet I (r 1603–17), whose tomb is located on the north side of the site facing…

Grand Bazaar

The colourful and chaotic Grand Bazaar is the heart of İstanbul's Old City and has been so for centuries. Starting as a small vaulted bedesten (warehouse)…

Pera Museum

There's plenty to see at this impressive museum, but its major draw is undoubtedly the 2nd-floor exhibition of paintings featuring Turkish Orientalist…

Top picks from our travel experts

14 must-do things on your trip to istanbul.

Pierre Loti Café

Many visitors head to this hilltop cafe after visiting the Eyüp Sultan Mosque. Named for the famous French novelist who is said to have come here for…

İstanbul Modern

This lavishly funded and innovative museum has an extensive collection of Turkish art and also stages a constantly changing and uniformly excellent…

SALT Beyoğlu

With a brief to explore critical and timely issues in visual and material culture, the İstiklal branch of the SALT cultural centre is one of the city's…

Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı

It took seven years to develop a conservation plan for this 1580 Mimar Sinan–designed building and complete the meticulous restoration. Fortunately, the…

Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı

This meticulously restored twin hamam dating to 1556 offers the most luxurious traditional bath experience in the Old City. Designed by Mimar Sinan, it…

Dolmabahçe Palace

The Bosphorus Suburbs

These days it’s fashionable for architects and critics influenced by the less-is-more aesthetic of Bauhaus masters to sneer at buildings such as…

Beşiktaş Çarşı

The beating heart of Beşiktaş, this bustling backstreet area packed with shops, restaurants, bars, cafes – and the neighbourhood’s youthful crowd – is…

Barış Manço House

One of the pioneering musicians who mixed rock sounds with traditional Turkish folk music to establish the Anatolian rock genre in the 1960s and 1970s,…

İstiklal Caddesi

Once called the Grand Rue de Pera but renamed İstiklal (Independence) in the early years of the Republic, Beyoğlu's premier boulevard is a perfect…

Kadıköy Produce Market

An aromatic, colourful and alluring showcase of the best fresh produce in the city, the Kadıköy Pazarı is foodie central for locals and is becoming an…

Meshur Dondurmacı Ali Usta

Weekend and summer-night saunters down Moda Caddesi wouldn't be the same without a cone of the dondurma (ice cream) produced by the five brothers who…

Yapı Kredi Kültür Sanat

Towering over Galatasaray Sq, this sleek cultural centre affiliated with a major Turkish bank stages art exhibitions, hosts classical-music concerts, and…

Spice Bazaar

Vividly coloured spices are displayed alongside jewel-like lokum (Turkish delight) at this Ottoman-era marketplace, providing eye candy for the thousands…

The 25 best things to do in Istanbul that don't cost a thing

Hünkâr Kasrı

Built over a grand archway attached to the New Mosque, this small kasrı (pavilion) or mahfili (loge) dates from the same period and functioned as a…

Aqueduct of Valens

Rising majestically over the traffic on busy Atatürk Bulvarı, this limestone aqueduct is one of the city's most distinctive landmarks. Commissioned by…

Nişantaşi, Bomonti & Harbiye

On a sunny weekend afternoon, you’ll find this slender green oasis in central İstanbul full of picnicking families, canoodling couples and slackline…

The Byzantine emperors loved nothing more than an afternoon at the chariot races, and this rectangular arena alongside Sultanahmet Park was their venue of…

Turkish Hamam Culture Museum

Constructed by order of the mother of Selim I and one of the wives of Beyazıt II, this now-decommissioned early-16th-century hamam is one of the largest…

SALT Galata

The descriptor 'cultural centre' is used a lot in İstanbul, but is often a misnomer. Here at SALT Galata it really does apply. Housed in a magnificent…

İstanbul Arastırmaları Enstitüsü

Associated with the nearby Pera Museum, this institution incorporates a publicly accessible research library focusing on the cultural and social history…

Beyazıt State Library

Occupying the former imaret (soup kitchen) and kervansaray (caravanserai) of the Beyazıt Mosque's külliye, this library has recently been the subject of a…

The only remaining built section of the Hippodrome hints at how monumental the arena was. The level of galleries that once topped this section was damaged…

Gülhane Park

Gülhane Park was once part of the grounds of Topkapı Palace, accessible only to the royal court. These days crowds of locals come here to picnic under the…

Feriköy Organic Market

Established in 2006 as Turkey’s first ‘100% ecological bazaar’, this bustling Saturday market is still going strong, with hundreds of colourful stalls…

Church of St Stephen of the Bulgars

Known as the 'Iron Church', this distinctive Gothic Revival–style building on the Golden Horn has an extremely beautiful interior, with its gilded iron…

Koç University Research Centre for Anatolian Civilizations

With a wealth of scholarly knowledge and archival photos to draw on, the exhibitions regularly staged on the ground floor of this university-affiliated…

Occupying a former tobacco warehouse, this alternative space is operated by Anadolu Kültür (www.anadolukultur.org), a not-for-profit organisation that…

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

This important complex marks the supposed burial place of Ebu Eyüp el-Ensari, a friend of the Prophet who fell in battle outside the walls of…

Rüstem Paşa Mosque

Nestled in the middle of the busy Tahtakale shopping district, this diminutive mosque is a gem. Dating from 1560, it was designed by Sinan for Rüstem Paşa…

Aşiyan Museum

It’s quite a hike up to this small house-museum, named after the Turkish word for ‘bird’s nest’, but the stunning Bosphorus views may well inspire you to…

Women's Bazaar

Though it's a wonderful spot to observe local life, the vibrant Women's Bazaar isn't for the faint-hearted. Freshly slaughtered sheep carcasses swing in…

Akbank Art Centre

Turkey's big banks and philanthropic trusts vie to be seen as the greatest sponsor of the arts. İstiklal is a showcase for their generosity, and with this…

Yıldız Park

This large and leafy retreat is alive with birds, picnicking families and young couples strolling hand in hand. The best time to visit is in April, when…

Wednesday Market

This busy weekly market sells food, clothing and household goods. It's held in the streets behind and to the north of Fatih Mosque.

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Neighborhoods

Explore the distinct neighborhoods of Istanbul with this guide to what to expect in each one.

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul with a day trip to nearby beaches, forests and sleepy towns.

Transportation

Istanbul's scale and traffic jams can be daunting to travelers but the city's compact center and transport options make it a breeze if you're in the know.

Free Things to Do

From mosques and markets to art galleries and monuments, some of Istanbul's best sites don't cost a thing.

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Istanbul and beyond

Wander-Lush

42 Things to Know Before You Visit Istanbul: Helpful Istanbul Travel Tips

Istanbul is a magnificent beast.

Thirty-nine districts, 15 million people, and 1700-plus years of history – it’s still difficult for me to wrap my head around a city of this scale.

I never know where to begin with Istanbul. And yet every time I arrive, I somehow feel instantly at ease. Turkey’s biggest metropolis has a way of encircling you, sweeping you up and taking you along for the ride. For me, it’s one of those places where it’s best to relinquish expectations and anxieties and just go with the flow.

That’s easier said than done, and there are countless tidbits I wish I had known before I visited Istanbul for the first time back in 2019. On my recent re-visit, there were many more things I noticed for the first time.

I struggled to whittle this list down to a digestible size – not because travelling in Istanbul is particularly complicated or difficult, but because when you’re dealing with a city of such incredible breadth and depth, there’s just so much to talk about.

Here are 42 Istanbul tips that I think every traveller will benefit from , including cultural quirks, itinerary planning tips, logistics hints, and common faux pas.

• Also read: The perfect itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Istanbul quick links

• Istanbul airport transfer: Private transfer from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen (from $27)
• Where to stay in Istanbul: Hostel Le Banc (budget); 38 Hotel (mid-range); Hotel Empress Zoe (boutique); Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (luxury)
• Istanbul Official E-Pass: Pre-purchase online here
• Skip the line: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour (from $40)
• Best Istanbul food tour: Taste of 2 Continents (from $100)
• Top-rated Istanbul city tour: Best of Istanbul in 1 Day (from $60)
• Turkey car hire: Find a low-cost rental on Local Rent (from 28€/day)

Essential Istanbul travel tips

Starting with the basics, here are answers to some of the burning questions I had before my first visit to Turkey (Türkiye) and Istanbul.

1. Avoid visiting in summer

Never underestimate Istanbul’s magnetism. The city pulled in more than 14 million tourists in 2019 (including me), and on my most recent trip in 2022, it felt just as crowded as it had been three years earlier.

I’m willing to bet that most people visit Istanbul during the summer months – June, July and August. This feels a bit hypocritical because I myself have visited Istanbul twice during summer – but because I did, I know what peak season is like.

Istanbul’s climate is quite mild relative to other cities in the region. Temperatures might not go too far beyond 30 degrees Celsius in the shade, but the sun is scorching hot, and it’s very dry.

Aside from the oppressive heat, there are the summer swarms to contend with. (You haven’t really experienced a queue until you’ve stood in line for the Hagia Sophia on an August afternoon.) There are crushing crowds at every landmark during summer, and that gets old pretty quickly. On top of that, accommodation prices are noticeably higher and it can be challenging to get a reservation.

The best time to visit Istanbul is during shoulder season, spring (April to early June) or autumn (mid-September to the start of November). For something different, consider visiting Turkey in winter , when snow covers Istanbul and the city’s charm-o-metre is off the charts.

Take note of the dates for the Holy Month of Ramadan (usually around March-April-May, but it changes every year), which influences the way the city operates.

2. You need at least three days to do Istanbul justice

However many days you give yourself in Istanbul, it will never be enough. You will always feel like you short-changed yourself – there’s always one more neighbourhood to explore, one more ferry trip to take, one more museum to visit, one more restaurant to try…

Three days is the bare minimum for a first-time visitor, but you could easily stay for a week or more.

I recently spent 10 days in Istanbul and found it was a good amount of time to see the city at a relaxed pace. I stayed in the centre for that entire time, though I did have a few ‘down’ days to work. There are dozens of day trip opportunities to break things up if the city gets to be too much.

One of the highlights of Istanbul is the food, so you’d do well to measure the duration of your stay in meals eaten rather than nights slept! Six square meals (and a couple of ‘spread breakfasts’) is ideal for indulging in the best of Istanbul’s food scene .

Plan your time with my 4-day Istanbul itinerary , which covers the must-sees and a few local gems.

3. Save time (and maybe money) by applying for an e-visa

Most nationalities require a tourist visa to enter Türkiye. The country’s e-visa scheme, which launched in 2013, is available to citizens of 40+ countries, including the States, Australia and Canada. (EU citizens do not need a visa.) A standard multiple-entry visa is valid for a stay of up to 90 days with 180 days validity from the date of issue.

Visa on arrival (VOA) is also available, but if you’re flying in, it requires queueing at the airport – and because of the high volume of flights arriving at IST particularly, it can be a long wait. For some nationalities, it’s also more expensive – 10 USD dearer on average compared to the e-visa according to the official fees (though for US passport holders, VOA is cheaper).

Applying for a Turkish e-visa requires completing a simple online form. The website has English-language support and international card payment, but be warned that sometimes it’s a bit glitchy. Both times I’ve applied, my visa has landed in my inbox almost instantly (within the hour). Be sure to print off the A4 piece of paper to show at immigration.

There are copycat sites out there – the official e-visa portal is located here .

I have never been asked for proof of onward travel or a hotel reservation when entering Turkey. If you want one or both for peace of mind without making an actual booking, then I suggest using OneWayFly .

4. Travel insurance is a must

Travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Turkey. Again, you might not be asked to show proof of insurance if you’re travelling on an e-visa (I haven’t), but rules are rules nonetheless.

Istanbul is generally regarded as a safe city, but pickpocketing and crime do occur. More importantly, local health care can be expensive, so it pays to be covered in case of accident or unexpected illness.

For single-policy or annual trip insurance, I recommend HeyMondo. Get 5% off your policy when you sign up using this link .

Read up on these Istanbul safety tips before you go.

5. Use the Havabus (Havaist) shuttle to travel to/from the airport

Update: Since publishing this guide, both Istanbul airports now have an underground metro service. I would definitely look into this option – avoiding traffic could be a real time-saver. Here are more details .

Havabus is a terrific service for travelling between Istanbul’s airports (yes, there is more than one – see the next point) and the downtown area. Shuttles operate 24/7, with departures in both directions every 30-60 minutes.

Tip: At Sabiha Gokcen airport, the shuttle is called Havabus and at Istanbul Airport, it’s called Havaist. I have used both – they operate in much the same way, but they have separate websites for checking the schedule ( here for Havabus and here for Havaist).

When you land in Istanbul, look for the airport bus signage. At Sabiha Gokcen, the bus stand is located on the other side of the car park directly in front of the arrivals terminal. Tickets are purchased using cash on the bus and cost 37.50 TRY (around 2 USD) per person to go to Taksim.

If you prefer a private transfer, airport cars are very well priced (from $27 to/from either airport). Pre-book a door-to-door airport transfer online here .

Eventually the Istanbul metro will extend to IST Airport, but the line has not been completed yet.

6. There are multiple airports in Istanbul – don’t front up at the wrong one!

Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s largest and busiest international airport. Located on the European side in Arnavutkoy, 40km / 45 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square, it is sometimes referred to as ‘Istanbul Grand Airport’ or IGA. If you’re flying with Turkish Airlines or from Europe, there’s a high chance you will be landing at IST.

A second airport, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), receives flights from the Middle East (Emirates, Qatar ) as well as Turkey’s own Pegasus Airlines. It is located on the Asian side, 40km / 60 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square.

A third airport, Ataturk Airport, closed in 2019.

The two airports are 80km apart and it takes at least 75-90 minutes to travel between them. There are shuttle buses, but if you show up at the wrong one for your flight, there’s a good chance you’ll be left high and dry. Triple-check your reservation and make sure you show up at the correct airport.

We got caught out with this on our first trip and rolled up at the wrong airport for our flight back to Australia. Luckily we had come a day early with the intention of staying the night at the airport hotel, so we still made our flight.

You can use Havabus/Havaist to get back to the airport from the city, too. Buses depart from Taksim Square. Take the metro to Taksim and follow the exit towards Taksim Gezi Park. From there, the station is a short walk (you will see the coaches waiting and two ticket booths on the footpath).

Buses to both airports depart from the same area, so again, triple-check you’re hopping on the right one!

7. Pre-book your accommodation

Hotel platform Booking.com doesn’t work in Turkey, so if this is your preferred way to find accommodation, you’ll need to do your browsing and booking before you arrive. (This can be overcome by using a VPN of course.)

Pre-booking is essential for peak-period travel as properties do fill up and prices can skyrocket for last-minute reservations.

I normally use Airbnb in Istanbul for the simple reason that I prefer to stay in local neighbourhoods. Sisli is my district of choice: It has great access to public transport, fantastic local restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe.

8. Card is widely accepted, but it helps to carry cash

Ninety-nine percent of venues and shops in Istanbul accept credit/debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, as well as contactless pay. For small markets and convenience stores, local restaurants, bars and taxis – and when dipping into the wonderful world of Istanbul street food – you’ll need cash.

Many smaller shops in Turkey have a primary limit set on card purchases, meaning you need to meet a certain threshold if you want to pay with a card. In these instances, cash is necessary. Small bills also come in handy for tipping (more on that later).

I suggest withdrawing cash when you first arrive and reserving it for smaller purchases and tips. Check out my Istanbul Travel Budget to learn more about budgeting for your trip and the cost of common items and services.

9. Most ATMs in Turkey charge a fee

ATMs are ubiquitous in Istanbul and most of the time, you’ll see half a dozen different cash machines clustered together. Majority charge a withdrawal fee – up to 5% for some banks – and have a transaction limit of between 3000-5000 TRY.

The only no-fee ATM we could find was Ziraat Bank. It’s red with a distinctive wheatear logo. We also used HalkBank, which did not charge us a withdrawal fee, but did hit us with a 13 TRY fee on Wise.

Banks change their fee structure regularly, so you might need to experiment with a few different machines. If the bank does charge a fee – either a flat fee or a percentage – this should always be displayed on the screen before you finalise the transaction.

On our first trip to Turkey, we had issues with our Australian bank cards not being accepted. This time around, I used my Wise card without any issues. I found the best method for withdrawing cash was to exchange stored currency to Turkish lira within the Wise app, then withdraw lira from the ATM.

Wise is great for international travel and offers very competitive exchange rates – if you don’t yet have an account, you can sign up here .

10. Buying a SIM card in Istanbul is easy, but your options are limited

Open WIFI is not readily accessible in Istanbul, which makes buying a local SIM card more or less a necessity.

If you’re not a Turkish citizen and you don’t hold a residency permit, you’ll find you have limited options when it comes to buying a SIM. Low-cost packages are not available to foreigners and most telcos only offer one standard tourist package.

After doing a bit of research, we settled on a Vodafone SIM. Vodafone only has one option for tourists, which includes 20GB of data, calls and texts, and unlimited access to Whatsapp. We paid 350 TRY (around 19 USD).

The process of buying a SIM is very straightforward and only took us about 15 minutes. You need a hard copy of your passport for registration, so make sure you’re carrying it with you. The tourist SIM automatically expires after 60 days.

11. The public transport system is phenomenal

If you’re considering hiring a car in Turkey to continue your travels beyond the city, make sure you pick it up on the outskirts of the city (possible when using a company such as Local Rent ). The traffic is maniacal and I would not recommend driving in the city centre.

There’s no reason to drive a car in Istanbul, anyway: The public transport system is affordable, easy to use and reliable. Between the metro, trams, buses, ferries, and my personal favourite, dolmus vans, you can get anywhere you need to go with ease. Google Maps works well for planning your route.

Dolmus minivans – Turkey’s answer to a marshrutka – are a fun experience. The name literally means ‘stuffed’ because passengers are squeezed in like sardines. Keep in mind that the entire transport network is very busy and squishy during peak hour, especially in the morning between about 8-9.30am.

When boarding a bus in Istanbul, enter through the front door and tap your IstanbulKart on the electronic reader. If the bus is very full, you can board through the back doors and pass your card down the line for someone at the front to swipe.

12. You need an IstanbulKart transport pass

On our first trip to Istanbul, we walked a lot and relied on buying single-journey metro tickets for longer trips. This time around, we re-learned that only certain ticket machines inside the metro dispense single tickets – and usually they are the ones with an obnoxiously long line of people.

An IstanbulKart is an essential purchase if you plan to use public transport. There are several different cards available – all are valid for the metro, buses, trams and ferries. The so-called Anonymous IstanbulKart is recommended for tourists and is sold at kiosks and newsstands and inside metro stations for 50 TRY (non-refundable). You can use one card for multiple people (up to five people).

A single IstanbulKart fare costs 7.67 TRY. Compared to the 15 TRY for a single-journey ticket, you’ll end up saving almost 50% on every trip.

Note that metrobus fares vary according to the number of stops travelled, but metro fares are flat. Transfers are charged at 5.49 TRY for the first transfer and 4.17 TRY for the second leg.

Find more information about the public transport system here .

13. Use an app for taxis in Istanbul

Istanbul’s cab system is similarly well organised, with three types of taxis at different price points. Yellow taxis are standard and have the lowest fares (6.3 TL/km plus a switch-on fee of 9.8 TL). Turquoise taxis are a premium service and cost 20% more, while black taxis (always luxury vehicles) are twice as expensive as yellow taxis.

Taxis are metered, so it’s generally considered safe for a tourist to hail a cab on the street. However, scams do happen , which is one of the reasons most people (including many locals) prefer to use an app.

After numerous legal battles, Uber re-launched in Turkey in 2021. We used it on several occasions and found the service to be good – short wait times, friendly drivers, and competitive fares (we always paid in cash rather than hooking up our credit card – make sure you are carrying small bills).

Uber alternatives include BiTaksi and Itaksi. The former has POS contactless payment, which is great for paying by card.

14. Tipping is standard

Tipping is customary in Turkey, with 10% being the standard mark for restaurants and bars. For taxi drivers, it’s normal to round up to the nearest lira when paying in cash.

Of course you should only tip if you’re satisfied with the service. We found the quality of customer service in Istanbul to be pretty good across the board, with the exception of one chain cafe where we had a terrible experience.

Tipping is slightly higher for other service providers: 10-20% goes to your tellak or natir at the Turkish baths, and to your hairdresser or barber.

15. Can you drink the tap water in Istanbul?

This is a rhetorical question, because I’m still not sure what the correct answer is! Locals will warn you off tap water while at the same time, the government is running campaigns to encourage more people to drink from the faucet.

From what I understand, Istanbul tap water was undrinkable a decade ago. Infrastructure improvements (and the addition of chlorine to the water stream) have made tap water safe to drink, but many people still prefer to drink bottled water.

If the building you’re staying in has old, rusty pipes, it might be best to give tap water a wide berth. Try a small quantity and see how it sits with you.

16. Don’t flush your loo paper

Istanbul’s pipes are a bit sensitive, thus most restaurants, cafes and hotels request you place toilet tissue in a bin rather than flushing it down the loo. If this is the case, you’ll likely see a sign and a strategically placed wastepaper bin. If in doubt, don’t flush it.

17. If you need a bathroom, head to the nearest mosque

After chasing after non-existent bathrooms in malls and metro stations, I finally cottoned onto this little Istanbul tip: There are public toilets attached to most mosques and in my experience, they are almost always cleaner than public bathrooms elsewhere. Pan toilets are common. Men’s rooms are marked with bay , and women’s with bayan .

Some bathrooms are free to use, while others charge a small (1-2 TRY) fee. Another good reason to carry some small bills or coins with you.

18. Sip ayran to keep your tummy happy

Ayran is a savoury yogurt drink that has its roots in Turkey, but is popular around the region (I developed my ayran addiction several years ago in Bosnia and Herzegovina and have been sipping it ever since). It’s not too creamy, not too watery, and has just a hint of salty effervescence.

Because it’s yogurt, it’s full of good bacteria that do wonders to keep your gut in balance. Just as you might drink lassis in India, you can drink ayran in Istanbul to help ward off any potential food or water-related bugs.

Food poisoning definitely does occur in Istanbul, so watch what you eat and try to consume street food earlier in the day when it’s fresher (especially fish wraps and seafood).

People drink ayran with breakfast, lunch or dinner, and it is served at virtually every restaurant in Istanbul – either in little plastic tubs or from a fountain. Always go for the fresh option when it’s available: It’s light and aerated and extra delicious, presented with a big scoop of yogurty foam on top.

19. Drinking is common, but alcohol is not ubiquitous

The most popular alcoholic drinks in Istanbul are beer, wine and raki , a powerful spirit distilled from grapes or other fruits. Not all restaurants serve alcohol, however, and when you make your way over to the Asian side of Istanbul (which is noticeably more conservative), you’ll find that only a handful of establishments are licensed.

If you prefer to BYO, tekels are Istanbul’s answer to bottle shops. They normally sell a selection of local bottled beers and Turkish wines along with soft drinks, snack foods and cigarettes. It’s illegal to sell alcohol within 100 metres of a mosque or a school, so you won’t find any tekels in some neighbourhoods.

Sales are restricted to certain times of day – you cannot purchase drinks from a bottle shop between 10am and 6am (there are no restrictions on restaurants and bars, though). Alcohol is served as normal during Ramadan.

Excessive drinking is taboo in Turkish culture. Raki, the national drink, is a social beverage consumed slowly with food. It has aniseed notes and is sometimes served over water and ice, which gives it a milky colour.

If you want to try raki, head to a meyhane (meze bar), where alcohol is served with small places of food (also see point #26 on this list). You can order a small 350 mL bottle or a shot (~40 mL). Start slow – some rakis are 80-90 proof.

20. English is widely spoken (sort of)

The number of Turkish people who speak English is somewhere between 15-20% . Of course the rate is much higher in Istanbul, but still, English is not as widespread as you might imagine.

We found a bit of a paradox here: In big shops and phone stores, very little English was spoken, while we encountered staff who spoke perfect English in small restaurants and humble bakeries.

The bottom line is that it’s a bit of a mixed bag, so be prepared to sign and mime your way through some situations. Of course it helps to have some simple Turkish under your belt – knowing a few basic phrases can help to smooth things over.

Istanbul quirks to know before you go

Here are a few unusual quirks that tripped us up in Istanbul.

21. Pharmacies are hard to find

Turkey differentiates between ‘pharmacies’ and ‘cosmetic stores’ in a way that I’ve not noticed in any other country. The latter sells beauty and health products, but there is no pharmacist on staff and nowhere to buy over-the-counter medications or prescription meds.

Chains such as Watsons, Rossmann and Gratis are classified as ‘cosmetics stores’. If you need anything more serious than paracetamol or a revitalising face mask, you need a pharmacy or eczane .

Eczanesi are more difficult to come by. That’s because there are no chain pharmacies in Turkey. All pharmacies are small and owner-operated by a pharmacist – essentially mom-and-pop shops. You won’t find them in malls, only on the streets. Look for the ‘eczanesi’ sign in the window, and when using Google Maps, search for ‘eczane’ rather than ‘pharmacy’.

Pharmacies are worth hunting down if you need them: Many medicines are freely available in Turkey without a prescription, and prices are almost always cheaper than elsewhere in Europe. You do have to ask around, though, as every pharmacy has different stock and different generic brands. My partner spent several days searching for his medication and after asking at a dozen eczanesi, he finally found what he was looking for at a quarter of the price it is in Georgia.

22. Hand cologne is a thing

Istanbulites were sanitising their hands long before it was cool. The first time we had our hands doused in hand cologne by a friendly waiter, we assumed it was hand sanitiser – but no, this tradition far predates the pandemic.

Kolonya harks back to the days of the Ottoman Empire when a pleasant smelling liquid was sprinkled on guests’ hands as they would enter or exit private homes, hotels or hospitals. Today it’s widely used in restaurants after you pay the check. Some places have a little bottle on the table next to the salt and pepper shakers.

Scented with jasmine, lemon, rosewater or dark spice, a dash of hand cologne leaves your paws smelling fragrant fresh. Unlike hand gel, kolonya is very thin and watery – a little bit goes a long way. And because it’s ethanol-based, it does act as a disinfectant as well.

23. Don’t be surprised if you get asked for your phone number

Grocery stores, cosmetic stores, clothing shops and pharmacies alike seem to ask customers for a local phone number – I assume for marketing purposes rather than to track or register anything. This happened to us on a daily basis, and the first few times, the language barrier made it very confusing.

If you don’t have a local SIM (and even if you do), you can always say no and the cashier will copy a random number off the back of an old receipt.

24. Don’t stay too close to a mosque if you like to sleep in

Istanbul has its own backing track, and that is the sound of the call to prayer ( ezan ). The rumble of minarets whispering to each other is incredibly stirring – but your opinion might be slightly different if you happen to be laying your head near a mosque’s speakerbox every night.

The call to prayer happens five times a day, starting with the pre-dawn İmsak ( Fajr ), which reverberates around the city some time between 4-6am depending on the time of year. In July, it can be as early as 3.30am, with a second Sunrise ( Güneş ) call around 2 hours later.

With well over 3,000 mosques, you’ll more than likely have at least one or two nearby. If you’re a light sleeper, it’s worth scoping out the local mosques and choosing accommodation that’s further than earshot from the nearest minaret.

25. Don’t linger too long at a lokanta

Lokanta are a specific type of Turkish restaurant that serve casual, home-style meals to workers and tradesmen. Every neighbourhood has them, and they are a terrific place to sample salt-of-the-earth Turkish cuisine and soak up a bit of local culture at the same time.

When you sit down at a lokanta, a waiter will come to take your order within seconds. Some are cafeteria style, others are a-la-carte. At the end of the meal, empty plates are spirited away and the table sprayed and wiped just as fast as the food came out. Usually you settle the bill at a cash desk rather than requesting a written check.

It’s easy to overstay your welcome at this type of establishment, where the imperative is to turn tables as quickly as possible. They are perfect when you need a quick bite, but if you want a leisurely meal, choose a different sort of restaurant. Sidewalk meyhanes , for example, are the complete opposite. Serving meze and raki, they are designed for long, lingering lunches.

26. Don’t assume those meze plates are free

It’s normal for wait staff at a meyhane to present you with an attractive tray of small plates before they take your order. Turkish meze includes grilled eggplant with yogurt, fava beans, artichoke, and many, many more delicious bites designed for sharing over a bottle of raki.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming these small side salads are free – they are not. (Sides of chopped onion, herbs and chilli served in smaller silver dishes with kebab, on the other hand, are usually included in the price.)

27. Brace yourself for lots of uphill walking

They don’t call Istanbul the ‘City on Seven Hills’ for nothing. After a few days walking the streets, you might think the ‘city of seven million hills’ is a more apt nickname.

Constantinople was laid out in the image of Rome, which was of course built over a septet of hills. On the ground, it feels like all of Istanbul is rippled, with steep streets and vertiginous staircases at almost every turn. There are many advantages to this city plan, the delightfully sloped houses in Balat for one, and the spectacular city views you get from the higher elevations for another.

Comfy shoes and a whole lot of patience are absolutely essential when exploring Istanbul on foot, where it can literally feel like an uphill battle to get from one place to the next.

There are ways to avoid the slog, including using the funicular railways: Taksim-Kabatas and the historic Tunel that links Karakoy and Beyoglu. The latter is the world’s second-oldest subterranean rail line (after the London Underground) and the oldest still-operating underground funicular in Europe.

Istanbul travel tips to feel like a local

While it takes more than a three or four-day stay to feel like a fully fledged Istanbulite, here are a few little tricks to help you fit in.

28. Dress modestly to blend in

Istanbul is a metropolis through and through, with a liberal dress code to match. Almost anything goes, but I still recommend you cover up for comfort and to fit in with the crowd. Women should try to avoid plunging necklines, revealing fabrics, and very short hemlines.

There are noticeable differences between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, with more modest dress and more hijabs worn in Uskudar compared to Eminonu, for example. Generally speaking, Turkey gets more conservative the further east you go, and this holds true even in the city centre. Keep it in mind if you’re travelling around the country.

One place you definitely must observe the dress code is mosques, where covered arms (to the elbow for men or the wrist for women) and legs (down to the ankles) is required. Women must also cover their hair. Majority of mosques have pull-over muumuus that you can borrow (for free) at the door to fully cover up. Note that there are no dress requirements for young kids.

It’s obligatory to remove your shoes when entering a mosque, so on days when you’re sightseeing, wear kicks that you can easily slip off and on. And if you prefer not to go barefoot, carry a pair of ankle socks in the bottom of your bag. Some mosques provide plastic bags, otherwise you can just leave your shoes outside.

29. Never skip breakfast…

Breakfast is certainly the most important meal of the day in Turkey. Sunday breakfast is the queen of the morning meals, when the famous kahvalti tabagi ‘spread breakfast’ comes into its own.

On a Sunday, some Istanbulites spend the better part of the day between mid-morning and late afternoon gathered around the breakfast table with friends or family, noshing on an extravagant spread of cheeses, olives, cut vegetables and eggs served with supple somun bread. Kahvalti is a daily occurrence in places like Besiktast ‘Breakfast Street’ and in gourmet cafes such as Van Kahvalti.

If you’re on a tight timeline or a budget, breakfast doesn’t have to be drawn-out or expensive: There are faster and more affordable options, such as a pick-and-choose breakfast at Cakmak Kahvalti Salonu, where small plates range from 2-8 TRY each. 

Borekcisi (borek bakeries) serve portions of steaming hot filled pastry and chai, or for a simple breakfast snack on the go, grab a simit bagel from a street vendor.

30. …But don’t order coffee first thing

Kahvalti means ‘before coffee’. Breakfast is traditionally accompanied by cay , strong black tea, rather than Turkish coffee. It’s normal to down half a dozen glasses of tea in a single sitting (though two or three is usually enough). Most sit-down kahvalti breakfasts come with two pots of tea.

If you want to do things like a local, save your Türk kahvesi for after lunch and start your morning with cay sade – strong and bitter tea with no sugar – instead.

31. Don’t be afraid to haggle at the bazaar

Haggling is customary and expected at markets in Istanbul and in other commercial settings. You’ll find that most items at the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar have a price tag, but for those that don’t (and even for those that do), it’s quite normal to bargain for a better price. This is especially true if you’re buying more than one of something or multiple items from the same vendor. Rule of thumb is to aim for a 35-50% discount on the sticker price.

There are huge mark-ups at the Grand Bazaar, which seems to be almost exclusively the domain of tourists these days. There are local markets and street markets all over Istanbul where you’ll have a better chance of striking gold for a fair figure. Markets are held on different days of the week and following a rotating schedule, so you can always find something on. Popular food and flea markets take place in Karakoy (Tuesdays), Ortakoy (Thursdays), Uskudar (Fridays), and Besiktas (Saturdays).

If you do decide to brave the Grand Bazaar or another historic market in Istanbul, the best advice I’ve heard is to do your shopping in the mid-morning. It’s more likely that vendors have already made a few sales and met their daily commission targets, so there will be less pressure on you.

32. Don’t fall for the ‘shoe cleaner trick’

This one got us good.

One early morning we were walking down an alleyway in Besiktas when we heard a clack on the cobbles and noticed that someone had dropped a wooden shoe brush. Being the saint he is, my partner rushed to pick it up without a second thought and handed it back to the shoe cleaner whose caddy it had tumbled from.

Expressing his profound thanks, the guy promptly took a seat on the curb at our feet and insisted on shaking my husband’s hand in gratitude. That’s when he grabbed him by the wrist in a monkey grip and tried to pull him down for a coerced shoe cleaning. I should mention that he was wearing joggers, not leather shoes!

Neither of us were aware of this common scam at the time, so we thought the whole situation was quite hilarious. The man had a gorgeous smile and was very friendly – we actually gave him credit for this ingenious trick.

Only later when we heard about the scam did we realise what had (almost) happened to us. Ross managed to talk his way out of it, dirty shoes still intact.

We were not mad in the slightest, but it could have been a different story had we actually been talked into handing over cash. Keep an eye out for this trick, especially in touristy areas.

33. Embrace cat culture

There are up to a million cats and kittens living on the streets of Istanbul. Every cafe is a cat cafe, and every corner has its own posse of cute pusses. A picture-perfect clowder of cats lounging on fence posts and chairs like the princes and princesses they are awaits you at every turn.

Similar to street dogs in Georgia , the cats of Istanbul are regarded as community pets rather than strays and are fed and cared for by the locals. For the most part, they don’t bother people and keep to themselves. We definitely encountered a few fiercer felines on our travels – it’s pretty obvious which cats want pats and which ones need their personal space. They will let you know with a dagger stare or a hiss.

Cat culture can be traced back to Ottoman times, when tabbys helped to quash the city’s mice population. In this respect, cats are an inseparable part of the city’s social fabric.

If you’re an animal lover, it can be distressing to see so many cats living rough, especially when they’re not in the best shape. (Though I must say that every cat I met in Istanbul was plump and rosy.) It helps to know that Istanbul (and all of Turkey) has a no-kill, no capture policy.

34. Brush up on your basic hammam etiquette

Partaking in a traditional Turkish bath is a must-do in Istanbul. The hammams have aeons of history and custom attached to them – there are definite dos and don’ts, just as there are with the sulfur baths in Tbilisi . It helps to know how to handle things once the towels come out, lest you embarrass yourself.

Regarding nakedness, men normally strip down to nothing while women wear undies (single-use pairs are supplied by most bathhouses) then don a pestemal towel, which stays wrapped around you for the duration of your stay.

The Turkish-style skin peel/massage ( kese ) can be quite rough on the skin and muscles. The therapist, known as a natir or tellak , will always be of the same gender. It’s customary to tip them 10-20% after your treatment.

For more Turkish hammam hints, see this guide .

More helpful Istanbul tips to make the most of your visit

Finally, here are a handful of practical tips for planning your itinerary and getting the most out of your time in Istanbul.

35. Organise your Istanbul itinerary by neighbourhood/district

Istanbul has 39 districts, each with its own character and appeal. From the Instagrammable houses and antique shops in Balat, to the trendy cafes in Cihangir, the rambunctious fish market in Uskudar to the Ottoman-era mansions in Arnavutkoy , every corner of the city has something incredible up its sleeve.

A great way to organise your time in Istanbul is by planning your movements around the different neighbourhoods. Each one is quite discreet, so you can knock out a to-do list before moving onto the next.

Some neighbourhoods naturally pair together thanks to geography and transport logistics: Galata and Karakoy, Fener and Balat, Uskudar and Kadikoy, Cihangir and Cukurcuma. See my Istanbul 4-day itinerary for more ideas on how to plan your visit by district.

38. Consider signing up for a food tour

One thing every Istanbul neighbourhood has in common is its never-ending supply of cafes, restaurants and street food vendors. One of the best ways to discover the city – especially if you’re on a tight timeline – is by signing up for a food tour.

I was lucky enough to join Culinary Backstreets’ Born on the Bosphorus tour during my most recent visit to Istanbul. It was one of the highlights of my trip – not only because of the delicious food, but mainly thanks to our incredible guide, Benoit, who over the course of a full day taught me so much about Istanbul’s food and beyond.

The popular Taste of Two Continents tour, with 11 food stops and a Bosphorus ferry crossing, is a good alternative if you’re looking for a half-day experience.

37. Get an early start to beat the crowds

This is particularly important in summer, when the touristy parts of the city get extremely crowded. One of the best ways to avoid long waits at landmarks such as Galata Tower is by waking up early and arriving as doors open.

The metro starts running at 6am – and from Friday evening to Sunday morning public transport operates 24/7 – so there’s no excuse not to get out in the early AM.

38. Invest in a Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass

There is a gamut of different tourist cards and passes available for Istanbul. The 5-day Istanbul Museum Pass or the 2-7 day E-Pass is one of the best investments you can make if you plan on doing the rounds through the city’s best museums and big attractions.

The digital pass gives you skip-the-queue access to 10 of the city’s finest cultural institutions, including Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace and the Harem, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and the Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum.

Available to purchase online before you arrive, it uses a simple QR code system. Just show your pass on your mobile – no need to print anything.

Only buy the pass if it makes sense for you, though: You have to visit multiple attractions for it to pay off, though the other perks – particularly the ability to skip the ticket line – are invaluable in a sense.

Purchase the official Istanbul E-Pass here via Viator .

39. Check prayer times in advance

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are both active mosques, open to visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Except during prayer times, that is.

All of Istanbul’s mosques temporarily close to non-Muslim visitors five times a day for a period of about 90 minutes. For the duration of the Congregational Prayers, no tourists are permitted to enter.

It’s imperative to check prayer times in advance. If you show up while prayers are on, you will be met with a long wait outside. Times are signposted at the bigger mosques or you can check online .

The queue to enter the Hagia Sophia gets very long towards the end of the prayer session. The best time to visit is 30-40 minutes before the mosque is scheduled to close. Don’t try to visit on Fridays when the Jumu’ah prayer takes place – this is one of the busiest times, and it’s always crowded and chaotic.

If your Istanbul visit coincides with Ramadan or another Islamic holiday, prayer times might be different and mosques might be closed for longer periods during the day.

40. Skip the Bosphorus cruise – take advantage of local ferries instead

Some people opt to experience the Bosphorus on board a yacht at sunset with champagne and nibbles. If your budget won’t stretch that far, or you just prefer a local experience, then a ride on the public ferry offers the same ambiance and water views for a fraction of the price.

Hundreds of ferries criss-cross the strait, linking Istanbul’s Asian and European sides. The most scenic ferry routes include Besiktas to Kadikoy, Karakoy to Uskudar, and Karakoy to Kadikoy. Some boats go up the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea, and others head in the opposite direction towards the Princes’ Islands.

Bring a simit bagel to snack on (and to lure seagulls in for photos), or order a tulip-shaped glass of tea from one of the roving vendors on board.

41. Don’t miss the sunset from Galata Bridge

There is only one way to end a day in Istanbul in my opinion, and that’s by watching the sun go down from Galata Bridge. It might be touristy as heck, but there’s a good reason why this is such a popular spot. Views of the glittering water and intertwining boats, mosque minarets silhouetted against a dusky blue sky framed by fishermen casting their lines off the edge of the bridge, are absolute gold.

I recommend finding a spot to stand on the western side of the bridge, above the area where the Karakoy ferry docks. Aim to arrive about an hour before sunset for the best light.

For the perfect Istanbul photo, wait patiently for the garbage truck to come down the street and dump its load in the bins near the ferry terminal – this sends the seagulls into a frenzy, and they fill the skies with their spinning and diving for a good 15 minutes.

42. ‘Authentic’ Whirling Dervish ceremonies still exist – here’s how to find one

Speaking of Istanbul must-dos: A Whirling Dervish show is a bucket-list item for many. I was warned that all Mevlevi Sema ceremonies had become commercialised and ‘spoiled’ by tourists to the point where they just weren’t worth pursuing any more. So I made it my mission to find a real, ‘authentic’ Sema ritual in Istanbul, and I’m happy to say that I eventually did.

Get all the details about the best Whirling Dervish ceremony in Istanbul in this guide .

Where to stay in Istanbul

Budget: Hostel Le Banc (⭐ 9.5) – This popular hostel in Beyoglu is footsteps from the Galata Tower and Sishane metro station. It features air-conditioned rooms (private doubles and mixed/all-female 4 and 10-bed dorms), a shared lounge and a terrace.

Mid-range: 38 Hotel (⭐ 8.6) – Located in Sisli, close to Osmanbey metro station, this hotel has compact, tidy double rooms and suites.

Boutique: Hotel Empress Zoe (⭐ 9.2) – This gorgeous boutique hotel is decorated with heritage flourishes and boasts hammam-like ensuites and private internal terraces. The location in Fatih, minutes from Sultan Ahmet Mosque and the Blue Mosque, is very central yet the hotel still feels secluded.

Luxury: Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (⭐ 9.5) – Located in Beyoglu close to Galata Tower, this boutique-luxury hotel offers high-end suites with private courtyards and terraces. The building, an old Italian Dominican school with remnants of the 13th-century Galata walls inside its courtyard, is dripping with history.

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Istanbul travel resources

• 1-4 day Istanbul itinerary
• Istanbul travel budget
• The ultimate guide to eating out in Istanbul
• Tips for visiting Galata Tower for Istanbul city views
• The best Whirling Dervishes ceremony in Istanbul
• Guide to Arnavutkoy, Istanbul’s most beautiful district
• The best places to visit in Turkey
• Turkey in winter: Where to go plus travel tips

12 Comments

Detailed tips are super helpful, especially about the best time to visit and the ins and outs of public transport.

Thank you. Right now in Turkey with wife and kids. Following your steps and recommendations. Just one thing: booking asked for a price but the hotel converted the price to Liras and charged me much more for exactly the same booking and service! Thank you again,

I love your travel blog! Your vivid descriptions and stunning photographs make me feel like I’m right there with you. It’s inspiring to see someone embracing adventure and exploring new cultures. Keep the travel stories coming!

Excellent article and links for further information. I am planning a trip to Turkey in September with my wife and your articles a great start and support. Great job! Alejandro

This is very, very helpful. Thank you so much.

Early in your article you indicated that Booking.com does not work in Turkey, yet in the section, entitled “Turkey Essentials”, you direct us to that site for Hotels. Maybe I am missing something, but that appears to be contradictory. I found the article very helpful…..Thanks for the information.

Hi JB – I still recommend using Booking, only you have to reserve from outside of Turkey ie. before you arrive.

Thanks so much, this was really helpful. Lots of good to know stuff that I didn’t find mentioned elsewhere

it was very helpful thank you

Ha, I made the same mistake again and didn’t read through your info thoroughly. In Georgia, I paid more than I needed to for a SIM at the airport and this time, I could have saved a few lira on a bank withdrawal in Istanbul.

Already appreciating the smiles and kindness in Istanbul very much.

Love your work Emily.

Perhaps it’s different for Australian passport holders, but I found the VOA to be a better deal than the eVisa for Americans. Our eVisas were fast and easy to get, but cost $50 plus a 2 dollar service fee. We got them before traveling to Turkey last year, but went twice to make them a better value. This past month we got VOA (no lines) and paid 25 euros each. Both are valid for 6 months. Plus you get a little visa stamp in your passport!

Thanks Owen for the info – you’re right, VOA is more affordable for US passport holders, but not for us Aussies unfortunately! I would have loved a visa stamp. I’ll update that now. Cheers!

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Katie Nadworny is an Istanbul-based writer who specializes in stories at the intersection of culture and politics in Turkey, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. She has lived in Turkey for nearly a decade and has traveled extensively around the region.

There is nowhere in the world quite like Istanbul. Spread across two continents, Istanbul is a city of layers and contrasts. With historical sights like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace brushing up against buzzing bars and lively cafes, with Ottoman-era mosques a short walk from contemporary art museums and galleries, with traditional carpet shops around the corner from trendy boutiques, Istanbul is a city of old and new coexisting. The city never stops moving.

Istanbul is the cultural capital of the country, with a plethora of independent galleries and inventive restaurants, as well as its transit hub, with flights going all over Turkey and all over the world. Each neighborhood has its own distinct identity and vibe, and it's easy to spend weeks in Istanbul without ever seeing everything. But that is what makes it so fascinating—there will always be something calling you back for more. So order a cup of Turkish coffee and a piece of pistachio baklava, and get ready to delve into this fascinating metropolis.

Turkey's time zone is GMT+3 year-round, and is also called TRT (Turkey Time). Turkey does not do daylight savings.

Best Time to Go

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the perfect times to visit Istanbul, when the weather is bright and mild. During the month of April is the city-wide Tulip Festival, when the parks and green spaces in the city are bedazzled with the colorful bulbs. In the summer, the city becomes sticky and very hot, and most residents flee to the beaches in the south as soon as they can, but the streets are alive all night when the air cools off a little. Winter is gray and rainy, showing Istanbul at its most moody and evocative.

Things to Know

The main language in Istanbul is Turkish, though with a large international presence in the city, don't be surprised to hear chatter in English or Arabic or Farsi as you explore. Turkish people are generally quite helpful, even if you don't speak any Turkish, and shop owners (especially in Sultanahmet, the historic center) will often invite you to sit down and share a çay, a tiny tulip-shaped cup of strong black tea. Personal space is often a luxury in this crowded city, so don't be surprised if you feel someone is standing too close to you as you wait for a bus or in a line—it's normal here.

Don't mistake the water that bisects the city for a river. The Bosphorus Strait connects the Sea of Marmara (and, by extension, the Mediterranean) with the Black Sea, and is therefore a major global shipping route. It's not unusual to see massive container ships floating by your commuter ferry.

While Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, the capital city is actually Ankara, in central Anatolia. But the palaces that dot the Bosphorus, left over from Istanbul's status as the capital of the Ottoman Empire, might make you think otherwise. The politicians might do their business in Ankara, but Istanbul feels like the center of the world.

Currency: Turkish Lira (TL)

(Check the current exchange rate )

Language: Turkish I don't speak Turkish: Türkçe bilmiyorum. I'm lost: Kayboldum Can I have…?: …alabilirmiyim? Where is…?: ... nerede?

Calling Code: +90

Capital City: Ankara

How to Get Around

Intricate interlocking transportations—both official and informal—make it easy to navigate around Istanbul. There are multiple metro lines with clear signage and modern cars that connect to an above-ground tram line and two funiculars. The Marmaray, a cross-continent metro line that passes under the Bosphorus Strait, connects the metro system on the European and Asian sides of the city, and has recently expanded to run all the way into the suburbs on both sides of the city. Otherwise, the best way to cross from Europe to Asia and back is by ferry, with multiple ferry lines running between stations on a regular schedule all throughout the day.

The gaps are filled by city buses, which are paid for by the same IstanbulKart that gets you onto the metro, Marmaray, and ferries. And if there is no bus that runs to your destination, there might be a dolmuş , a yellow van that runs on a fixed route but stops whenever a passenger requests it and leaves whenever the van is full. There are also light blue minibuses that run on various routes throughout the city. Dolmuş and minibuses are paid in cash, with the price depending on the distance you go.

Taxis are plentiful, especially around touristed areas. Apps like BiTaksi can be useful to call taxis directly, and hotels are also usually happy to order a taxi if you can't flag one down.

Best Hotels

Ciragan palace kempinski.

Address: Ciragan Caddesi 32 34349 Istanbul Phone: +90 212 326 4646 Website

Housed in an ornate former Ottoman palace on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait, the Ciragan Palace is the ultimate luxurious hotel in Istanbul. The Ciragan boasts an outdoor infinity pool, an exquisite spa with a Turkish hamam, and high-end restaurants. If you want to experience Istanbul like Ottoman royalty, the Ciragan is the place to do it.

Corinne Hotel

Address: Kuloğlu Mah., Turnacıbaşı Caddesi 41 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 293 94 94 Website

Located in the heart of Beyoğlu, Istanbul's nightlife and entertainment district, the Corinne Hotel is an ideal base to experience the energy of the city. The boutique hotel is in a lovingly restored late-Ottoman neoclassical building, with trendy and contemporary amenities alongside a winding marble staircase. Don't miss out on its rooftop terrace, the perfect place to sip a cocktail and watch Istanbul sparkle below.

Sirkeci Mansion

Address: Taya Hatun Sokak 5 34120 Sirkeci/Istanbul Phone: +90 212 528 43 44 Website

Nestled in the heart of Sultanahmet, Sirkeci Mansion is walking distance from the Hagia Sophia, Gulhane Park, and Topkapi Palace. The hotel contains 32 spacious rooms, a spa, and an on-site restaurant. Relax at the hotel's Turkish hamam, or head up to the hotel's rooftop, with its sweeping views of the old city.

Pera Palace Hotel

Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi 52 34430 Tepebasi/Istanbul Phone: +90 212 377 4000 Website

Modern luxury and Turkish history entwine at the Pera Palace hotel, a grand Art Nouveau beauty that was built for travelers on the Orient Express and over the years has hosted illustrious guests that include Agatha Christie, Ernest Hemingway, and Queen Elizabeth II. The Pera Palace is located close to Istiklal Caddesi, Istanbul's main thoroughfare. The five-star hotel has 115 rooms, multiple restaurants and bars, and a fully-equipped spa and fitness center.

The Bank Hotel

Address: Azapkapı, Bankalar Caddesi 5/1 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 283 00 55 Website

Located in a reappropriated late-Ottoman-era bank in the Karakoy neighborhood, The Bank Hotel is a trendy boutique hotel located between the historic peninsula and the nightlife of Istiklal Caddesi. The eclectic design mixes the modern and the historic bones of the building throughout the hotel's 62 rooms. The restaurant on the rooftop offers splendid views of the city.

Splendid Palace Hotel

Address: Büyükada-nizam, Yirmiüç Nisan Caddesi 39 34970 Adalar/İstanbul Phone: +90 216 382 69 50 Website

This striking hotel on Istanbul's biggest island is full of early Republic charm, somehow both modern and nostalgically vintage. A highlight is the outdoor pool, where it's easy to while away the day in the sunshine. The 60 rooms and 9 suites are bright and breezy, perfect for an island escape in the middle of the city.

Best Restaurants

Address: The Marmara Pera Meşrutiyet Caddesi 15 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 293 5656 Website

The creation of lauded Turkish-Scandinavian chef Mehmet Gurs, Mikla has long had a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Istanbul thanks to its creative twist on traditional cuisine. Located on the roof of the Marmara Pera Hotel, the views are as exquisite as the food. Try the tasting menu to get a sense of the scope of Mikla's creative culinary creations. Reservation is recommended. Indoor and outdoor dining is available.

Ciya Sofrasi

Address: Caferağa Mah. Güneşlibahçe Sokak 43 34710 Kadıköy/Istanbul, Phone: +90 216 330 3190 Website

This unassuming restaurant in the heart of the Kadikoy neighborhood's market street belies its reputation as an Istanbul powerhouse. With cuisine drawn from various regions across Anatolia, especially its diverse southeast region, the menu is constantly shifting and incorporating seasonal produce. In the summertime, try the cherry kebab; in the springtime, don't miss the lamb stewed with erik , Turkish sour plums. Indoor and outdoor dining is available.

Address: Azapkapı, Gümrük Han, Fermeneciler Caddesi 40/A 34420 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 244 97 76 Website

This seemingly ramshackle restaurant comes alive at night, glittering with strings of lights and lanterns. Perched right at the edge of the water in the Karakoy district, this is an evocative place to have the Turkish meyhane experience, with small plates of meze dotting the table and rakı (an anise liquor) flowing all night. Make sure to try the atom , thick yogurt mixed with hot dried peppers, and the catch of the day. Reservation is recommended, especially on weekends, and most dining is outdoors.

Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi 107/F 34430 Beyoglu/Istanbul Phone: +90 212 243 2633 Website

This cozy bistro in the Pera neighborhood, walking distance from Istiklal Caddesi, combines Turkish, Persian, and Middle Eastern influences in its inventive cuisine. Make sure to try the dudi Persian rice speckled with ruby-red barberries. Reservation recommended, only indoor dining.

Things to Do

Hagia sophia.

Address: Ayasofya Meydanı 1 34122 Fatih/İstanbul Phone: +90212 522 17 50 Website

The Hagia Sophia is a building that has held many identities: from a Byzantine church to an Ottoman mosque to a secular museum, and now back to a mosque again. Visitors will need to respect the rules of the mosques in Turkey and dress appropriately , but there is no longer a fee to experience the ultimate palimpsest of a building. While some of the famous mosaics and frescoes are covered, many are still visible.

Topkapi Palace

Address: Cankurtaran Mah. 4122 Fatih/Istanbul Phone: +90 212 512 04 80 Website

Construction on Topkapi Palace began in 1453, when the Ottomans took Constantinople, and was the primary seat of imperial power for nearly four hundred years. The Harem requires an additional ticket, but it's worth it, with its magnificent blue-tiled walls and chambers.

Galata Tower

Address: Bereketzade, Galata kulesi 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 245 4141 Website

Built by the Genoese in the 14th century, Galata Tower is an iconic part of the Istanbul skyline. Climb to the top for some of the best views of the city—especially at sunset.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Address: Süleymaniye Mah, Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Caddesi 1 34116 Fatih/İstanbul Website

Suleymaniye Mosque is considered Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan's most splendid Istanbul mosque, and the architect himself is buried in a tomb on the site. With its intricate tiles, massive dome, and sweeping view of the city from its courtyard, Suleymaniye is a gem among Istanbul's imperial mosques.

Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam

Address: Kemankeş Mah. Hamam Sokak 1 34425 Tophane Karaköy/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 393 80 10 Website

The full hamam , or Turkish bath, experience is particularly luxurious at the Kili Ali Pasa Hamam. Sweat out on a marble slab in the elegantly restored historic building, and get scrubbed squeaky clean.

Best Shopping

Grand bazaar.

Address: Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. 22 34126 Fatih/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 519 12 48

Istanbul's Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, encompassing an entire buzzing hive of artisans and merchants spread across 60 streets and 4000 shops. Come for traditional Turkish carpets, gold and silver jewelry, leather goods, and more—and make sure to sit, share a tea, and haggle.

Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)

Address: Rüstem Paşa, Erzak Ambarı Sokak 92 34116 Fatih/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 513 65 97

Built in the 17th century, this fragrant covered market brims over with spices, from tangy sumac to smokey urfa pepper to Turkish saffron. Vendors also sell Turkish delight, ceramics, and other non-spice items.

Arasta Bazaar

Address: Kabasakal Caddesi 34122 Fatih/İstanbul

This market street in the heart of the Sultanahmet neighborhood historically housed shops whose rent helped pay for the maintenance of the nearby Blue Mosque. Now, vendors sell hand-woven pestamel (Turkish towels), ceramics, carpets, and more.

Souq Dukkan

Address: Büyükdere Caddesi 185 34330 Şişli/İstanbul Phone: +90 555 030 82 32 Website

Souq Dukkan began as an artisan's bazaar in the trendy Karakoy neighborhood before recently relocating to Kanyon in Levent. Featuring the work of local designers, creators, and artists, Souq Dukkan is the place to find unique Turkish items from some of the city's most creative minds.

Neighborhoods to Know

Sultanahmet : Seemingly every block in this neighborhood has something historical poking out. The central square is dominated by the twinned Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, and the streets hold other imperial Ottoman-era mosques, Byzantine cisterns, and the remains of a hippodrome. This is the main place visitors to Istanbul come, and with good reason—the layered empires that dominated Istanbul have all left their mark right here.

Kadıkӧy : Located on Istanbul's Asian shore, Kadıkӧy is the neighborhood of artists and creatives. Bright colorful murals decorate the walls of buildings, while the streets brim with vibrant bars, sleek third-wave coffee shops, trendy boutiques, and al fresco dining. Kadıkӧy has a long stretch of seaside that is filled on summer nights with locals enjoying a beer at sunset. Only a picturesque ferry ride away from the city center, Kadıkӧy is the neighborhood to visit to see how Istanbul's cool kids live.

Cihangir : This trendy neighborhood, just a few blocks from Taksim Square, is the place to see and be seen. With cutting-edge boutiques, moody bistros, colorful bars slinging cocktails, and stylish cafes, Cihangir has long been the scene where hip Turks and foreigners mingle.

Beşiktaş : Located on the European Bosphorus shore just a short walk from Dolmabahçe Palace, Beşiktaş is a rowdy neighborhood famed for its passionate support of the local football team and its plethora of pubs. Explore the rollicking side streets spilling over with people enjoying the night time energy.

Karakoy : Formerly a forlorn strip of shipping warehouses and camping shops, the Karakoy neighborhood has blossomed in the last decade into a colorful strip of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. One building houses five of Istanbul's premier private galleries, while mere steps away is the splendid Kılıc Ali Paşa Mosque and its luxurious hammam.

Nişantaşı : For luxury and high-end experiences, Istanbul's elite come to upscale Nişantaşı. Here's where you can find haute couture boutiques, luxury brands like Prada and Louis Vuitton, and elegant restaurants. Just nearby is Maçka Park, one of the few parks in central Istanbul and an ideal place to stroll.

The Princes Islands : The Princes Islands, called Adalar in Turkish, are nine islands in the sea of Marmara, with four open to the public. Cars are not allowed on the islands, so it's best to get around by bicycle, by foot, or by horse-drawn carriage. With its charming white wooden houses and lush bougainvillea, the islands are an escape from the city within the city. The four islands (Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada) can be reached by regular ferries from the mainland.

Balat : The twinned neighborhoods of Fener and Balat, historically home to large Greek and Jewish populations, are some of the most picturesque in Istanbul, with colorful wooden houses lining hilly cobblestone streets. Balat has erupted in recent years, easily claiming its place as one of Istanbul's most interesting up-and-coming neighborhoods. Explore the antique shops that dot the area or stop at one of the many cafes and new restaurants that line the streets.

Winter: Istanbul winters are gray and constantly rainy, with weather hovering around 45°-50°F. While it's not ideal weather, the city is evocative and somehow cozy, with vendors selling roasted chestnuts on the street corners and steaming tulip-shaped cups of tea on offer at every restaurant.

Spring: In the springtime, the sun comes out and the weather warms up to a comfortable 65°-70°F. Flowers bloom all over the city, from fragrant jasmine to hot pink petals bursting from Judas trees. The early end of spring can still be a little chilly, but everyone still sits outside to soak in the sun.

Summer: The long, sticky, crowded days of Istanbul's summer usually have temperatures around 85°F with 70% humidity. The saving grace is the water that surrounds the city—the breeze off the Bosphorus on a transcontinental ferry ride or a swim in the Sea of Marmara from Istanbul's islands takes the edge off the muggy heat. And the endless summer nights, often spent sitting around a long meyhane table sipping a cold glass of anise-flavored raki , make it all worth it.

Fall: Autumn in Istanbul is warm and comfortable. The humidity comes down, as does the temperature, lingering around a comfortable 65°F in the early autumn and slipping around to 60°F in the later part. This is the best time to come to Istanbul.

Apps to Download

BiTaksi: Local taxi-hailing app iOs | Android

Uber: International taxi-hailing app iOs | Android

Trafi: Live traffic updates iOs | Android

Moovit: Transportation schedule aggregator iOs | Android

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Plan Your Trip to Istanbul: Best of Istanbul Tourism

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing istanbul.

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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• Hagia Sophia Mosque
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Istanbul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Leonardo Patrizi | Getty Images

19 Best Things to Do in Istanbul, Turkey

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

• All Things To Do

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi) Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi) free

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Beyoglu Neighborhood The Beyoglu Neighborhood

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

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

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

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

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

Dolmabahce Palace Dolmabahce Palace

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

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

The Besiktas Neighborhood The Besiktas Neighborhood

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

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

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The Nisantasi Neighborhood The Nisantasi Neighborhood

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

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

Galataport Galataport

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

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

Istanbul Modern Istanbul Modern

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

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

The Kadiköy Neighborhood The Kadiköy Neighborhood

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

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

Beylerybeyi Palace Beylerybeyi Palace

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

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

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Büyükada Büyükada

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

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

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Home » Middle East » Turkey » Istanbul

Istanbul Travel Guide – Visit Cheaply in 2024!

Istanbul should be on the top of everyone’s travel bucket list. This is one of the most fascinating, authentic, and thrilling places that I have ever visited over the course of my traveling career and I get excited every time I think about returning here. But if we’re being honest right now, Istanbul is not always an easy city to visit. It’s big, hectic, and hard to crack into sometimes. Some people can visit Istanbul without ever having really experienced anything there aside from some popular tourist attractions and the way-to-touristy Grand Bazaar.

With this Istanbul travel guide, it is my goal to make the city more accessible and easier to visit. We’ll talk about where to go, what to see, where to stay, and much, much more. Istanbul deserves a bit more attention than some other cities out there but the extra effort is doubly rewarded.

So join me as I revisit this amazing place and walk through all of its twisting alleyways and historic neighborhoods. By the time we’re finished here, you should know exactly what to do when you travel to Istanbul yourself.

How Much Does Visiting Istanbul Cost?

Backpacker accommodation in istanbul, what to do in istanbul, a 3-day sample itinerary for istanbul, istanbul travel guide – extra tips and tricks, eating in istanbul – the best food and restaurants, some final thoughts from this istanbul travel guide….

By Western standards, Istanbul is a pretty budget-friendly place. Accommodation in Istanbul is about half of what you’d find in most major European cities, food ranges from cheap to dirt cheap, and getting around is always affordable with public transport. Visiting Istanbul on a budget should be no problem, even for those who are more budget-conscious.

A lower, backpacker daily budget for Istanbul will be around $25-$30/day. This will get you a dorm bed, groceries, beer money, and some extra cash to visit some attractions around the city.

Refer below for a brief breakdown of what to expect when planning a trip to Istanbul:

• Lodging – Hostels in Istanbul are cheap – a good one should cost around $10-$15/night. If you have a little extra to spend, Airbnbs in Istanbul are still affordable and, from my experience, very comfortable to stay in.
• Transportation – Public transport in Istanbul is also cheap. Prices range depending on the type of transit you are taking and the distance, but you can expect to pay around $1/trip. Riding public transport may take a while though (it’s particularly inefficient here). Taxis are better for getting around Istanbul but are more expensive. 2020 rates are 0.5 euro per km + start rates.
• Food – Depends on how you want to live. If you want to eat at upscale restaurants in Istanbul, expenses add up quickly. If you want to save money on food, there are many ways. Street kebabs are always cheap and grocery stores/markets are ubiquitous. Budget visitors to Turkey often plumb for street meat.
• Drinking – Booze is a bit more expensive in Istanbul relative to food. Beer can be found for as low as $2 but it’s more likely to be sold for standard Western prices i.e. $5 for a glass of beer or wine, $7 for a cocktail, etc.

Average Costs of a Trip to Istanbul

Here’s a breakdown of individual costs when formulating a daily budget in Istanbul:

Hostel Dormitory: $10-$15

Basic hotel room for two: $60-$80

Airbnb/temp apartment: $40-$60

Average cost of public transport: $1-$2/ride

City-Airport transfer: $2-$30

Doner Kebab: $1-$2

Beer at a bar: $2-$3

Coffee: $2-$3

Bottle of wine from the market: $10

Dinner for two: $10-$20

Istanbul Travel Guide – Budget Tips

• Eat doner kebabs: They only cost a couple of dollars on the street.
• VISIT ISTANBUL NOW : As of January 2020, the Turkish economy is in bad shape and the value of the lira is very low. You’ll get a great exchange rate if you have dollars or euros.
• Cook your own food: It’s backpacking 101! Cooking at the hostel or apartment is always cheaper than going out for a full meal. Rice and vegetables are your best friends as a backpacker.
• Haggle, haggle, HAGGLE : Any price that a shop owner tells you in the bazaars is about double what it actually should be. Never ever accept the first price when bartering for something – start at a third and work your way up. If you don’t know when it’s ok to barter, it’s usually done when prices aren’t listed. If you have to ask the seller how much something is, you’re bartering already.
• Don’t sleep in Sultanahmet or near Taksim Square: For the best prices on accommodation, stay in the more outer districts, like Fener or Kadikoy. There are great Airbnb options in Istanbul that will keep the costs low as well.
• Account for airport transfer expenses : Unless you want to spend an hour or two on the bus, you’ll most likely have to take a taxi from the airport. They aren’t cheap.
• If you want to drink, pre-fade at your place first : Paying full price at the bar is never the cheapest option. Get a buzz on first before heading out. NOTE that as of 2018, Istanbul has banned drinking in public so be sure to FINISH your drinks before leaving.
• Have a water bottle: Don’t waste money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap.

Why You Should Travel to Istanbul with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

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Right off the bat, I’m going to tell you that there is no ultra-convenient or perfect place to stay in Istanbul. The city is just too damn big, too damn busy, and too damn amazing to fit in a single neighborhood or district. Make no mistake: there are a lot of options when it comes to lodging in Istanbul.

Sultanahmet is probably the first area in Istanbul that everyone is going to look at for lodging. It hosts most of the city’s most iconic landmarks, like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, and is not too far away from the city center. Staying in Sultanahmet will be pricey though.

If you want to stay somewhere more traditional and local, consider Fener and neighboring Balat . They’re both listed on UNESCO and are practically open-air museums. The tall and narrow apartments that define the neighborhood are really cool to stay in as well.

One of my favorite places to stay in Istanbul is Galata . It’s slightly better connected to the rest of the city, has some great cafes nearby, and is pretty too. Istiklal Street is very close by as well.

If you really want to experience a different side of Istanbul, consider staying across the Bosphorus in the Kadikoy area. You will see a fraction of the tourists and will get to enjoy what many are calling “the new hot neighborhood in Istanbul.”

The Best Places to Stay in Istanbul

Are you wondering  which is the best part of Istanbul to stay in?  Well, let me give you a few suggestions.

Sultanahmet

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

Located north of the Sultanahmet district, Beyoglu is one of the liveliest districts in Istanbul and our top recommendation for where to stay for those on a budget. Home to the popular pedestrianized Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue), this district attracts locals and tourists day and night.

Galata is a neighbourhood located north of the Golden Horn. Although technically part of the Beyoglu district, this neighbourhood has a distinct feel and flair.

Karaköy is a small district situated at the mouth of the Golden Horn. Once one of the city’s most important ports, this area was left to deteriorate for decades.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is a colourful and chaotic district located in the centre of Istanbul. Built around the centuries-old Grand and Spice Bazaars, this area is where you’ll find a wide variety of vendors, shops and boutiques. Grand Bazaar is our top recommendation of where to stay in Istanbul for families.

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A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

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No Istanbul travel guide would be complete without talking about the must-do things in the city ! Here are some of my favorite:

1. Wonder at the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of the single most impressive structures in the world – a wondrous achievement of human and religious endeavors. Once a basilica during the Byzantine era turned mosque when the Ottomans came, the Hagia Sophia is at the center of many people’s hearts. It is not to be missed.

2. Have a night out in Beyoglu

This is ground zero for the best nightlife in Istanbul. Whether you like raucous nightclubs, chill cafes, or hidden pubs in alleyways, there’s something for everyone in Beyoglu.

3. Explore the Asian side of Istanbul

The Asian side of Istanbul, the Anatolian side, could be considered a completely different city to visit. Vastly more local, way less chaos (except for rush hour traffic), and not without its own charms. This is where people go to discover the real Istanbul. Kadikoy and Moda are the most interesting neighborhoods in the area.

4. Go to a real Turkish bath (if you dare)

It’s not for everyone but Turkish baths certainly an interesting experience. More contortion and joint-cracking than relaxation and soothing at times, Turkish hammams are not for the faint-hearted. If you can make it through one though, you may just feel a bit younger (or a bit violated). Note that Turkish hammams are always separated by gender.

5. Get lost in history

Istanbul has changed hands more than a few times. First, it was a Greek settlement, then it was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, and after that, it was conquered by the Ottomans. This city has seen more than enough history over the course of its existence and nowadays it is practically an ark unto itself. Be sure to explore local heritage sites like the Chora Museum, the Greek Orthodox College, Rumeli Fortress and everything in between.

6. Enjoy the cafe culture of Galata

The best part about staying in Galata was the mornings. I could wake up, walk outside and within 100 square meters, there were a dozen awesome cafes. A long morning spent sampling Turkish pastries is time well spent.

7. Shop til you drop

A lot of people spend a weekend in Istanbul just so they can go shopping. This city appeals to just about every kind of shopper imaginable: trinketry, upscale, souvenir shopping, fashion; if it exists, you can probably find it in Istanbul.

8. Discover the many cool neighborhoods of Istanbul

Istanbul is not lacking for neighborhoods. There are at least 36 different districts in Istanbul and each of those has between 15-25 mahalle or neighborhoods in themselves. That’s a lot.

Whilst you may not get to see them all, I still suggest doing a little exploring. Go for a venture in the historic Balat neighborhood of Fatih or the up and coming Karakoy in Begolyu. You never know what you might find.

9. Watch the fishermen at Galata Bridge

This is one of those ultra-touristy things to do in Istanbul that is also super endearing. There’s just something about watching local fishermen stand there and wait potentially all day long for a catch. It’s one of the few tranquil spaces in the city and a nice way to break from the chaos.

10. Walk along the Bosphorus

Bosphorus is one of the defining aspects of Istanbul. For natives, it is a source of prosperity, greater well-being, and pride. For tourists, it’s a great way to get to know the city. Take a walk along the Bosphorus, visiting the many sites and districts along the way, and you will learn more about Istanbul than in any museum or textbook.

Three days in Istanbul should be the bare minimum when you visit; there’s so much to do here that you’ll already be limited on time. To help you use your time most wisely, here is a sample itinerary for y’all to enjoy!

Day 1 in Istanbul: Sultanahmet

You’ve probably just arrived and could potentially be jet-lagged. The best way to beat the lag I say is to just hit the ground running!

On the first day of our Istanbul trip, we’re going to be getting the touristy stuff out of the way first. That means heading straight for the Old City or Sultanahmet where most of Istanbul’s top attractions are.

Morning: After checking into your hotel in Istanbul, get a daypack ready  (pack a light lunch) and head to the nearest cafe. You’ll need a good breakfast and a stiff Turkish coffee for what we have in-store today.

Early-Afternoon: Start off with a leisurely stroll through Topkapi Palace. It’s mostly open-air and you won’t be stuck inside stuffy rooms too much. Find a nice place to sit when you’re ready and have that snack you packed.

Late-Afternoon: Next, make for the Hagia Sophia. This is, without question, the most beautiful landmark in Istanbul. Afterwards, head across the square to the Blue Mosque (note prayer times).

Evening: Head west towards the Grand Bazaar, stopping by the Basilica Cistern if you have time. I wouldn’t spend too much time in the Grand Bazaar itself – it’s a bit of a tourist trap. Just stop for a snack and a glass of mint tea. Our ultimate goal is the Suleymaniye Mosque where we will get to see the sunset.

Night: Time to find some food. If you stay in Sultanahmet, you will pay more money for worse food. There are much better selections across the Golden Horn around Galata and Ortokoy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try dropping by the local neighborhood of Fener.

UPDATE: The “ famous hidden viewpoint of Istanbul ” is currently closed as the roof is being renovated. There is a super cozy cafe in the building though that is probably my favorite in the city.

Day 2 in Istanbul: New Istanbul

Going to be another long day folks! Today we are sticking to the northern side of the Golden Horn, which is the “newer” part of town.

Morning: Grab a coffee and pastry in the Galata district. The medieval, Genovese tower is the most striking (and unmissable attraction) but the local cafes are just as noteworthy. They’re all super quaint and quite good.

Early-Afternoon: Head north and make for Istiklal Street. This is one of the main throughways in the city and is lined with shops and opulent arcades, like the Çiçek Pasaji. If you’re hungry, duck into one of the alleys for an early lunch – these alleys are packed with restaurants and bars.

Late-Afternoon: Keeping walking until you’ve reached Taksim Square and then keep going. Taksim Square is the official center of the city but doesn’t offer too much in the way of attractions. Instead, make for the Dolmabahçe Palace. You can pay to enter the palace if you like (the antechamber is amazing) or see the gate and mosque from the outside for free.

Evening: Find the nearest tram stop and head north towards Ortakoy. The local mosque is quite famous for its Baroque design and the neighborhood itself is well-known for its trendy bars and restaurants. This would be a great place to have dinner and some drinks.

Night: If you’re in the mood for partying, I’d say stick around Ortakoy or head back to the alleys of Istiklal Street. Otherwise, the cafes of Galata make for a relatively relaxing evening. Stay out as long as you want

Why are there so many cats in Istanbul? Some claim that it’s because a heroic cat saved the Prophet Muhammad’s life . Others say that it is because old Ottoman architecture was prone to infestation , so felines were introduced to hunt rats, pests, etc. Either way, cats are much loved in this city and are regular citizens in the eyes of the locals.

Day 3 in Istanbul: The Asian Side

To be honest, this part of Istanbul deserves its own itinerary. One could easily spend another couple of days here on top of what we’ve already talked about but, alas, for the sake of brevity, we can only talk about it in a day’s span.

Morning: There are two ways to travel across the Bosphorus: by bridge or by ferry. The ferry is the preferable choice. There are lots of ferry terminals in Sultanahmet and Karakoy – make sure you grab a ferry to Kadikoy on the Asian side. Also, be on the lookout for the iconic Maiden’s Tower in the Bosphorus.

Early-Afternoon: Kadikoy is one of the most popular districts in Istanbul at the moment. When you depart the ferry (assuming you got on the one to Kadikoy) you will be closest to the Moda neighborhood. There are lots of parks here as well as some good cafes to get you going. The views of Sultanahmet are also excellent.

Late-Afternoon: I’d recommend making a detour to Beylerbeyi Palace to spend some time here and along the Bosphorus. It will require you to use a taxi though as public transport is very bad in this part of the city. If this seems like a hassle, keep exploring Kadikoy. Go for a walk on Baghdad Avenue and grab some lunch in one of the many shady European cafes.

Evening: I highly recommend venturing out to Camlica Hill to catch the sunset as this park offers, without a doubt, the best views of Istanbul. There are also many places to go for walks or hikes in Istanbul in Kadikoy, this is just one of them!

Night: Grab some dinner and drinks in Kadikoy and then head back to your hotel in Istanbul when ready. Tomorrow we’re leaving 🙁

Want some more ideas? Check out this alternative itinerary for Istanbul!

Day Trips from Istanbul

As if Istanbul wasn’t big enough, there’s, even more, to do outside the city! If you’re spending more than 3 days in Istanbul, consider adding on one of these day trips from Istanbul :

• The Princes’ Islands – A popular day trip for those looking to escape the noise of the city. Beaches, bike rides, and charming coastal towns are all in abundance. Büyükada is the largest and most frequented island. Ferries to the island leave frequently from Kabatas Terminal in Istanbul.
• Edirne – One of Turkey’s stranger yet most respected sports is the ancient art of oil wrestling , which is exactly what it sounds like. One of the most important oil wrestling tournaments in Turkey is held in Edirne in late-June. If you’re backpacking in Istanbul around then, you shouldn’t pass this up. Only the slipperiest will survive to be crowned champion!
• Bursa – This is a great spot if you’re looking for sparser crowds and some more outdoor activities. Bursa, which was the original capital of the Ottoman Empire, has many notable attractions, like the Grand Mosque, the Green Mosque, and the very cool 600-year-old Inkaya tree. Don’t skip on eating at the Darüzziyafe either. Skiers should also know that nearby Uludag is considered the best ski resort in Turkey.
• Troy – Although it would be a very long trip from Istanbul, it is still possible to see the old ruins of Troy in a day. I will say right now that the ruins are not nearly as epic as some of Turkey’s other archaeological sites (or the movie for that matter), but they’re still humbling if you’re into the classics. The actual ruins are located in Tevfikiye near Canakkale.

Learn more about what to expect when visiting Istanbul by reading the following sections!

Best Time of Year to Visit Istanbul

The weather in Istanbul really throws me for a loop every time I visit. For some reason or another, I’m just never prepared for it. When I expect it to be pleasant, it’s humid as hell and hot. When I hope that it’s going to be balmy, it rains sideways and the wind comes howling down from the Black Sea.

That being said, there is no real bad time to be in Istanbul. The weather is surprising, yes, but I wouldn’t call it extreme except in the summer.

Istanbul is subject to four distinct seasons:

• Summers in Istanbul can be notoriously hot. Humidity can be oppressive and there seem to be few places of respite. Ask a local where you can cool off and they’ll probably point you to a pile of baking-hot boulders on the edge of the Bosphorus.
• Autumn is a very nice time of year to visit Istanbul. Temps are moderate although the rain does start to pick up a bit. I’d say that October is probably the best month of the year to be here.
• Winters in Istanbul are surprisingly frigid. Snow is not uncommon during this time of the year and the wind from the Bosphorus can really go to the bone. Also, Istanbul receives more rain than infamously grey cities like London and Brussels, which is not something that many people were aware of I think. Thankfully, nearly every hawker sells umbrellas.
• Springtime is a decent time to travel to Istanbul. The weather is pleasant again, albeit foggy at times. It can still rain quite a bit and snow can even occur in March. Also, take into consideration Ramadan. Though the city is generally secular, there are still plenty of Muslims in Istanbul that observes it.

Getting In and Out of Istanbul

I don’t think that I’ve ever visited a city with so many airports. At one point in time, there were three airports in Istanbul. Recently, one was closed so now there are only two in use: Sabiha and Istanbul International. FYI – you can take a transit tour from Istanbul airport if you have a layover there.

Sabiha is the oldest airport in Istanbul and probably the most frustrating to use. It’s located clear on the other side of the river on the edge of the Anatolian side of the city. It will take you at least an hour to get here from Istanbul proper by car and that is if the traffic is ok. There are direct buses to and from Sabiha but they will take even longer than a private transfer. Also, the airport just looks like a dystopian nightmare.

Note that if you’re flying low-cost domestically, chances are you’ll use Sabiha.

Istanbul International is the newest airport in town and was subject to quite a lot of media hype. It is what you’d expect from a modern airport: cavernous, sterile, and very commercial. If you’re commuting through this airport, be aware that it may take a lot of time to walk from gate to gate.

Getting to Istanbul International from the city isn’t much more pleasant than Sabiha. Buses and taxis are still the only options and commute times are going to be about the same: 45 minutes by car, 90 minutes by bus. (Oh how I miss the glory days of Ataturk Airport…)

For those who have flown into Istanbul internationally in the past, chances are you probably used the old airport, Ataturk. Ataturk was a nice airport and was relatively easy to get to, being only 20 or so minutes away from Sultanahmet. Alas, it is now completely closed down. Rest in peace Ataturk.

How to Get Around Istanbul

Istanbul is absolutely enormous. With over 15 million people , it is the most populous city in continental Europe and one of the top three in terms of land area. Getting around Istanbul will be a challenge but, with some savvy, you’ll still be able to see most of the top attractions.

There’s actually quite a lot of public transport in Istanbul. There are copious buses, a metro system, ferries across the Bosphorus, and street trams which are somewhat iconic of the city. If you get a good grasp on how these work, Istanbul will be at your beck and call.

The problem is that public transport is a bit cryptic at first. Signage is poor and routes are usually written in Turkish. Luckily, most transit is available to see on Google Maps. If I were you, I’d be sure to have a SIM card and to be connected as much as possible when trying to navigate.

To save some cash, I’d suggest buying an Istanbulkart. The way they’re set up is a little confusing (ticket prices go down the more you use it) but if you’re going to spend more than two days in Istanbul, you’ll end up saving money with one of these.

Due to its size, I highly recommend picking one part of Istanbul and sticking to it. You’d have to spend at least a week in Istanbul to see the entire city, both the European and Asian sides. Doing so in any less time would be nothing short of a herculean feat.

At the end of the day, taking a taxi is still the easiest way to get around. The local taxi app is called BiTaksi . My experiences with BiTaksi are mixed but they’re still much better than Uber. Uber in Istanbul is horrendous and overpriced.

Safety in Istanbul

Istanbul is a very large and very dynamic city. Life is accelerated, the streets are jam-packed with people, and everyone is just trying to get by. I like to say that, in Istanbul, chaos is served in the morning like a stiff cup of coffee and by that I mean it’s a necessary part of starting the day.

It is important to keep your wits about you when backpacking in Istanbul. Pickpockets will be active, scammers will be everywhere, and violence is not unheard of. To go into detail about each and every potential pitfall in the city would take a bit of time to thoroughly explain, so I’ll instead direct you to our Istanbul safety article and give the following advice:

Common sense and attentiveness are the surest ways to avoid trouble, no matter where you are. The easiest way to get out of a bad situation is to avoid it altogether. If shit looks sketch, then it probably is. Be cautious and aware of what’s going on around and trust your gut.

Be particularly cautious of scammers in Istanbul. Seriously, there are some very clever people in this city and they are very good at getting money out of unsuspecting tourists. The old “shoe shiner drops his brush and placates you with a sad story” is one of the oldest in the books. To avoid scams, keep an eye for overly-friendly people and situations that seem slightly “off.”

On a more political note, Istanbul and Turkey are often the recipients of bad press. Reports of corruption, economic collapse, and extremism are all normal it seems these days. It is important to remember that being a victim of something like terrorism is extremely rare. In reality, you’re more likely to be a victim of the petty crime mentioned earlier.

Travel Insurance for Istanbul

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Tips for Saving Money on Accommodation in Istanbul

Sometimes you need your own roof above your head – we know the feeling. Other times, you’re doing everything you can save a nickel and dime.

If you’re trying to cut the costs of travel when backpacking Istanbul, then maybe it’s time to stay somewhere besides a hostel or apartment. If you need to save money, try one of these:

Couchsurf! – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on cash when it comes to accommodation since most of the time you’re crashing for free. Staying with a local host is also a great chance to experience a more authentic side of the city and to visit hidden Istanbul.

Problem is Couchsurfing is really popular (duh, it’s free) and demand often outstrips supply. Hosts are picky as well so you’ll need to impress them with an eye-catching message. Definitely try Couchsurfing but be ready to be rejected.

Tap into your backpacker network – You never know when you have a friend in a foreign city! If you’ve traveled a lot, you may have met someone from Istanbul or know someone who knows someone.

Reach out to people! Ask to stay with people for a night or two in exchange for cooking dinner or a bottle of wine. If you don’t know anyone in the city, ask your friends if they do – travelers understand the struggle and are usually more helpful than you think.

Camping – Urban camping is a growing trend in many cities. These campsites are comfortable, sociable, safe, and cheap. They are often located on the outskirts of town, which means they are quieter too. Research to see if Istanbul has any and be sure to bring your own tent too!

Some Extra Free Things to Do in Istanbul

Looking to visit Istanbul on a budget? Consider one of these free activities in the city and save some cash!

• Certain mosques – Some of the finest mosques in Istanbul cost nothing to visit. The Blue Mosque, Zeyrek Camii, and Suleymaniye Mosque are all examples. You can enter some of these even if you aren’t a Muslim. Just be sure to visit outside of prayer hours.
• The bazaars – While I still think that the Grand Bazaar is a bit touristy, it is still a good way to kill time. You certainly won’t be lacking for stimulation or shop owners trying to win your attention. The Egyptian Bazaar is a good alternative (but still busy) and there’s an open-air market at Ortakoy on Sundays.
• Free museums – Some of the most prestigious museums in Istanbul offer free admission either on certain days or are always free regardless of the day of the week! Be sure to check out the official websites of the Elgiz Museum, Istanbul Modern, Dogancay, and Pera Museum to learn about free entry.
• The old walls of Constantinople – History buffs and Age of Empire fanatics will be happy to hear that some of the old Theodosian Walls still stand in Istanbul. There’s a good 500 meter stretch of wall near the Palace of the Porphyrogenitus that you can walk on if you like.
• Zülfaris Synagogue – Or the Quincentennial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews is free to enter for the public.
• Free walking tours of Istanbul – A good stroll is all it takes to become acquainted with a neighborhood; Istanbul has lots to choose from as well! Fener and Balat are popular areas to explore and one should definitely consider walking along the Bosphorus as well, particularly the bit between Ortokoy and Rumeli.

Books to Read Before Visiting Istanbul

If you need a little extra info to supplement our Istanbul travel guide, try reading one of these books on the city!

• The Bastard of Istanbul – An American-Armenian seeks to learn about her past and ends up living in Istanbul. Revelations of horrific events in the past will eventually reveal themselves.
• The Architect’s Apprentice – An exceptional animal tamer joins the inner Ottoman courts and takes an apprenticeship under the Sultan’s top architect.
• Istanbul: Memories and the City – From the immensely influential Turkish writer, Orhan Pamuk, this is a love letter to the city that raised him.
• The Time Regulation Institute – A surreal and somewhat dystopian commentary on the bureaucratic state of modern Turkey. Told from the perspective of Hayri Irdal as he interacts with the various characters that work at the Time Regulation Institute.
• The Janissary Tree – The first novel in Jason Goodwin’s Investigator Yashim series. This is Sherlock Holmes in Ottoman Istanbul.

The dining scene in Istanbul can be hit and miss depending on your food preferences. If you like grilled meats and lots of grains, you’ll be in your element. If you like lighter fare and/or you are a vegetarian, you will probably struggle in Istanbul.

The overwhelming majority of restaurants in Istanbul serve the best of Turkish food . This means kebabs , mezze , hearty vegetables, dolmas , pastries; things that make you want to crawl into a ball and fall into a food coma. In particular, carnivores will very much enjoy visiting Istanbul as just about everything is either roasted or grilled over an open fire.

If you don’t care for Turkish food, it’s going to be rough. Though there are some very good international restaurants in Istanbul, they are few and far in-between. Most of them are around the newer parts of town, around Taksim and Galata. DON’T stay in Sultanahmet if you want something other than Turkish food.

When visiting a Turkish restaurant, you should expect a typical European experience. You’re shown to a table, a waiter takes your order, food comes, etc, etc. Tipping is usually expected in Turkey, especially in finer venues. 5-10% should be fine.

If you’re backpacking in Istanbul on a budget, skip the restaurants. Instead, head to a food cart or a local lokanta , which is kind of like a blue-collar tavern with less drinking. Simit is a popular grab-n-go breakfast item and balik-ekmek (fish sandwich) is a local favorite. Who could pass up on ordering one of the most legendary dirtbag dishes either: the doner .

Nightlife in Istanbul

Istanbul is not Medina; it is not a bastion of religious conservatism that completely shuns the sins of the flesh. No, Istanbul loves to party.

You can find all of the usual suspects in Istanbul. Beer is common and the local favorite is Efes. Raki (an anis-based liqueur) is the official spirit of Turkey and is often served after dinner with some ice. Turkish wine ain’t too shabby either and ranges from fruity, red Karasakiz to floral, white Narince .

The epicenter of Istanbul nightlife is Beyoglu. Clubs, DJ sets, and live music venues all pump out some serious soundwaves here, the aftershocks of which are usually felt long into the morning. Most of these joints are hidden in the alleyways adjoining Istiklal Street.

The alleyways of Beyoglu can be really fun to wander around at night. Each has its own crowd, which makes them feel like little neighborhoods unto themselves. After a few drinks, it can be very easy to get lost in these though.

Generally speaking, the closer you get to Taksim Square, the more upscale the bars become. Further along, Ortakoy is also quite well known for its glamorous bars and clubs.

I personally enjoyed the nighttime vibes around Galata Tower. There were mostly lowkey cafes around this area, which was a nice respite after hectic days of exploring Istanbul. Note that the establishments directly next to the Galata Tower are busier and more touristy. You have to walk a bit to find diamonds-in-the rough, like Smyrna Art Cafe.

If you want to get high, then hash is relatively easy to find. Don’t buy it yourself – enlist the help of a local you trust. Averages prices are $5-$10 for a gram.

Visiting Istanbul may not always be easy, but is still easy to love this city. This is one of the most dynamic, storied, and thrilling cities in Europe to visit. I’ve been there several times and I’m always finding something new to do there on top of visiting superlatives like the Hagia Sophia.

Istanbul can be a bit of a mess at times; with its dynamism also comes chaos, speed, and a general sense of stupor. Those backpacking in Istanbul for the first time may feel a little lost in the beginning, but with this guide in hand, the city will be much more accessible. Istanbul is one of my favorite cities in the world, a feeling that I hope wasn’t lost over the course of the article, and I want others to experience it as I do.

Istanbul is just the beginning. Turkey is an amazing country and deserves to be explored as well. Once you’ve wrapped up the Turkish capital, be sure to make plans to see the likes of Cappadocia, the Turquoise Coast, and Mt Ararat. You won’t regret it

Before wrapping up this Istanbul travel guide, there are a few more matters that I want to discuss regarding responsibility and potentially staying in Istanbul long term. Please take a moment to consider these things.

Volunteering in Istanbul

Long term travel is awesome. Giving back is awesome too. For backpackers looking to travel long-term on a budget in Istanbul whilst making a real impact on local communities look no further than Worldpackers . Worldpackers is an excellent platform  connecting travelers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world.

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

Backpackers can spend long periods of time volunteering in an awesome place without spending any money. Meaningful life and travel experiences are rooted in stepping out of your comfort zone and into the world of a purposeful project.

Worldpackers opens the doors for work opportunities in hostels, homestays, NGOs, and eco-projects around the world. We’ve tried and approved them ourselves – check out our Worldpackers in-depth review here.

If you’re ready to create a life-changing travel experience and give back to the community, join the Worldpacker community now. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Make Money Online While Backpacking in Istanbul

Traveling in Austria long-term? Keen to make some cash when you are not exploring the country?

Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection.

Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills!

It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start  teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online,  TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on  teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with  MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Being a Responsible Traveler in Istanbul

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in landfill or in the ocean. Instead, pack a  tough travel water bottle .

Go and watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix – it’ll change how you view the plastic problem in the world; you need to understand what we are up against. If you think it doesn’t matter, get off my fucking site.

Don’t pick up single-use plastic bags, you’re a backpacker – take your daypack if you need to go to the shop or run errands.

Bear in mind, that many animal products in countries you travel through will not be ethically farmed and won’t be of the highest quality. I’m a carnivore but when I’m on the road, I only eat chicken. Mass-farming of cows etc leads to the rainforest being cut down – which is obviously a huge problem.

Need more guidance? – Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

Visiting Istanbul will bring you ample opportunities to participate in debauchery, and it is very important to have fun, let loose, and get a bit wild at times. Most trips I have been on across the world have included at least a few mornings where I wake up knowing I went too far.

But there are some things that will put you in the category of a straight-up jackass if you do them. Being super loud and obnoxious in a tiny hostel at 3 AM is a classic rookie mistake. Everyone in the hostel will hate you when you wake them up. Show your fellow travelers respect whilst traveling in Istanbul and anywhere else for that matter!

Istanbul is a beautiful place that has touched countless people, so let’s not mistreat it. It clearly inspired the makers of this video, which, not gonna lie, has made me cry (only) a few times.

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

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Hello, Ralph. You put interesting information in this article.

But I had a bad experience in Istanbul and I don’t recommend a trip to this city.

I landed on the night of 10/17/2022 at Istanbul Airport (IST). Before the flight, I purchased a transfer service through Booking.com for the transfer from the airport to the hotel, for 32 pounds sterling.

Upon arrival at the airport, I did not meet the driver at the agreed location (exit 13) and spoke with a driver who was there. I showed him the name and phone number of the person who was supposed to pick me up. He called then and on the other end of the line someone impersonated the driver who was supposed to pick me up, saying that there was a mistake and that I should make the ride with the one I had found. A price of 3590.00 Turkish Lira was placed and payment would be accepted by credit card. As I was very tired, it was late at night and I didn’t know the rate of the Turkish lira, I accepted it. On leaving the airport, the local called a colleague to accompany the trip.

On the way, they stopped at the first ATM and I was forced to withdraw the money. At that moment, I saw that it was a coup and that my life was in danger. Upon arriving at the hotel, I took a photo of the license plate and asked the receptionists for help. I couldn’t sleep that night. The next morning I went to the tourist police station. I told the policeman what had happened and he only said that he would contact the owner of the vehicle and talk to him about returning the money.

On the night of 10/19/2022, a representative of the vehicle owner went to the hotel and the hotel manager brokered the contact and negotiation. The two, representative and manager, said it would only fit me 85.00 euros as there would be fees to cover. I paid the equivalent of 225.00 euros for the criminal race and received only 85 euros at the end. No policial report was registered. I was coerced and robbed. This is all completely absurd. Crime and impunity prevail there. Uber doesn’t work in the city and the hotel manager said there is a big mafia in car transport at Istanbul airport.

I hired a guide for a walking tour of the historic center, but he didn’t show up. I paid for a laundry at the hotel to deliver clean and ironed clothes but they only delivered clean ones. They always try to overcharge you for anything. It’s really annoying that you have to keep checking and confirming things all the time. You cannot trust.

People are not friendly and polite like in other places. The food is not that attractive and delicious.

Anyway… What would have been a few days of tour and resting has become a very negative experience.

Tourism is done with transparency, honesty and trust. I left Istanbul sad and very disappointed. I don’t recommend this city and Turkey to anyone. There are certainly better options.

Things like this can happen anywhere and are not specific to Turkey, however this is a good reminder to travellers of things to look out for.

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Welcome to Istanbeautiful, your practical city and medi guide to Istanbul, Turkey…

Find things to do in Istanbul, days out, attractions and sightseeing in Istanbul, what’s on, Istanbul festivals and events, tours, restaurants and hotels in Istanbul. Plan your trip to Istanbul with useful traveler information.

We are a team and fellows of Istanbul locals, expats and world travelers. We aim to provide the very up-to-date and quality information and advice for your trip to our city Istanbul. We try to do our best to keep our website up-to-date with all the tourist information. Our motto is  “Your Go-See-Do-Heal Advisor” . We try to do our best to provide you the best advice on the city’s top sights and sounds, with the very best tourist , medical and health services from the trusted companies and providers.

Things to Do in Istanbul (2024 Essential Attractions Insider Guide)

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Augusta, Antonina, Nova Roma, Byzantion, Byzantium, Constantinople and finally Istanbul…  These exciting names reminds the mysterious and enchanting past of the city. Istanbul can be considered as the combination of the old and modern city, as well as Islamic and Mediterranean mixture of cultures in a captivating atmosphere. There are only few cities in the world that can be so delightful to experience and enjoy as Istanbul.

Istanbul offers an unforgettable experience for its travelers, with its colorful daily city life and dynamic nightlife. The beautiful silhouette of the city combines historical sites and monuments such as Roman aqueducts, Byzantine churches, Venetian towers, Ottoman palaces from the Byzantine, Ottoman and Turkish periods. And the skyline covers monumental minarets with skyscrapers and plazas. And especially the  Historical Peninsula  and the  Bosphorus  will make you deeply fall in love with the city…

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Planning your Istanbul trip? Whether you’re looking for things to do in Istanbul such as attractions, sights, festivals and events, key traveler information to make your Istanbul visit run smoothly, you’ll find everything you need for your Istanbul travel on istanbeautiful.com. Make sure to discover Istanbul’s diverse neighborhoods, from tranquil suburbs to central areas full of shopping, entertainment and dining options, as well as property options in the city.

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Istanbul Travel Guide: Unveiling The City of Two Continents

Discovering istanbul: your gateway to history, culture, and adventure.

Welcome to the ultimate Istanbul travel guide, your reliable resource for planning an unforgettable trip to the city that straddles two continents. This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about exploring Istanbul, from the best time to visit the most scrumptious dishes to try. Explore Turkey with One Nation Travel’s Turkey tour packages , featuring the captivating city of Istanbul.

Why Istanbul?

Istanbul, a city where East meets West, is a melting pot of cultures, a testament to numerous civilizations, and an amalgamation of the past and the present. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art enthusiast, or a shopaholic, Istanbul never fails to charm and astonish with its vibrant blend of cultural elements, making it an ideal destination for various travel intents.

Getting There

Istanbul is well connected to the rest of the world through two major international airports – Istanbul Atatürk Airport and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. Numerous airlines operate regular flights to Istanbul from major cities worldwide, ensuring your journey is smooth and hassle-free.

Getting Around Istanbul

Navigating Istanbul is a breeze thanks to its efficient public transportation system. From trams and metros to buses and ferries, there are numerous ways to explore this sprawling city. One of the most convenient ways to travel is by using an Istanbulkart, a rechargeable smart card valid for almost all means of public transport.

Places to Visit in Istanbul

From the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque and the historic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar and the majestic Topkapi Palace, Istanbul teems with must-visit sights. No trip to Istanbul is complete without a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, where Europe and Asia meet, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.

Istanbul Tours & Activities

A well-curated Istanbul tour package can make your Istanbul visit hassle-free and more enjoyable. Various tour operators offer comprehensive packages that cover the city’s top attractions, ensuring you don’t miss out on any essential experiences.

Foods to Try in Istanbul

Istanbul is a gastronomic paradise, boasting a rich culinary heritage. Do not leave without trying the city’s signature dishes such as the savory “döner kebab”, the delectable “baklava”, and the iconic Turkish tea and coffee.

Shopping in Istanbul

The city offers a unique shopping experience, from the traditional markets like the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar teeming with colorful ceramics, textiles, and spices, to modern malls that offer international brands.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Istanbul are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. However, Istanbul has a charm that can be enjoyed all year round.

Recommended Local Istanbul Tour Company: One Nation Travel

Discover the best of Istanbul and Turkey with One Nation Travel’s expertly crafted tour packages. From the iconic landmarks of Istanbul to the natural wonders of Cappadocia and Pamukkale, we offer a range of options to suit every traveler’s needs. With local guides and customizable itineraries, your perfect Turkish adventure awaits.

Istanbul, with its mesmerizing blend of tradition and modernity, is a city that promises an unforgettable travel experience. This Istanbul travel guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information to plan a perfect trip to this stunning city. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, there’s always something new to discover in Istanbul.

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Spread across two continents and between two seas, Istanbul is a city of empires past. The Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Galata Tower are just some of the many historic structures scattered throughout the city. Sip a Turkish tea as you float between Europe and Asia on a ferry and watch the palaces, mansions, and modern museums pass by. —Katie Nadworny

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50 Things to do while Travelling in Istanbul, Turkey: The Ultimate Istanbul Travel Guide!

So you’re travelling to Istanbul and you have no idea where to begin. That’s understandable, the city is massive (it spans two continents!) and it has so much to offer in terms of mosques, markets, museums and foreign culinary delights!

50 Things to do in Istanbul, Turkey

(1) Visit the Spice Bazaar. 

This is the second largest covered market after the Grand Bazaar.

Here you’ll be able to pick up spices, nuts, dried fruit, Turkish coffee, loose leaf tea, and even Turkish delight!

(2) Go to a whirling dervish show.

Turkey is home to the Mevlevi Order of Sufi whirling dervishes.

The dervishes spin themselves into a trance-like state that brings them closer to God, and it’s a unique religious ceremony to witness. 

You can read more about my experience here and book a whirling dervish experience here .

(3) Listen to the call of prayer.

The most beautiful call of prayer I listened to took place between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia (which although is no longer a mosque, still keeps a prayer room).

One muezzin would sing out part of the prayer and then the second muezzin would respond from the other minaret.

It was a magical thing to experience , so if you find yourself in the area during prayer time, I suggest you grab a seat at one of the park benches and just listen.

(4) Eat a kumpir.

A kumpir is a loaded baked potato. The server will mix the potato with cheese and butter until it’s light and fluffy, and then you can choose from an assortment of toppings including olives, hot dogs, pickles, corn, peas, bulgur and more. It’s the perfect snack to go.

(5) Get naked at a hammam. 

If you’re ready to shed your inhibitions, then head over to the Turkish bath.

For the full experience you’ll want to opt in for the body scrub and massage. Don’t worry, the hamam is segregated into male and female only areas.

(6) Ride the red street car.

One way to see Istiklal Avenue without having to weave your way through the crowds is to ride the streetcar from one end of the strip to another.

The streetcar has a decidedly vintage feel and it makes for a pleasant journey through Istanbul’s shopping hub.

(7) Walk across Galata Bridge. 

Yes, you could very well ride the light rail across, but if you choose to walk, you’ll get to see all the locals fishing from the bridge, the vendors selling sesame covered pretzels, and the boats carrying passengers down the Bosphorus.

(8) Eat a sesame seed covered pretzel. 

You can pick up one of these tasty pretzels at any bakery in town, but I suggest you grab one from the little red stands along Istiklal Avenue. It just adds to the experience.

(9) Take a boat tour down the Bosphorus. 

If you only have a few brief days in the city and you know you won’t be able to cover all of the main attractions, taking a cruise down the Bosphorus is a great way to get a glimpse of Istanbul’s main points of interest.

You’ll ride past Dolmabahçe Palace, the Rumeli Ruins, the Maiden’s Tower, and many mosques, mansions, and gardens along the way.

(10) Order Turkish chicken breast pudding. 

There is nothing appetizing about the thought of this dish.

Chicken for dessert? Well…yes, but before you protest, let me tell you that you can’t actually taste the chicken. 

Tavuk Göğsü , as the dish is known, is prepared by boiling chicken breast in water and then shredding the meat into small fibrous pieces.

The meat is then boiled again, this time with milk, sugar, vanilla, cornstarch and rice flour.

The end result is a sweet pudding which you can top off with a sprinkling of cinnamon.

(11) Drink Turkish tea.  

If you come to Istanbul you have to drink tea out of a tulip-shaped glass.

Turkish tea is prepared in a rather unique way using a teapot that has two level: one to boil the water, and the other to brew the tea.

You then pour the tea into the glass and dilute it with the hot water so that it’s made to your taste.

(12) Eat börek.

Börek is a traditional Turkish pastry made of flaky dough.

It can be stuffed with feta cheese or minced meat as a savoury treat, or if you prefer something sweeter, you can eat it plain with a little bit of icing sugar sprinkled overtop.

You can dive deeper into Turkish cuisine with this 3-hour foodie tour .

(13) Marvel at Hagia Sophia.

This architectural wonder has a long history which has seen it go from Eastern Orthodox cathedral, to Roman Cathedral, back to Eastern Orthodox cathedral, to mosque, and now it’s a museum.

The exterior may not seem too impressive, but once you’re inside and you catch a glimpse of the heavenly domes and ancient mosaics, you will be in awe.

With the 1-hour guided tour you can learn more about the history and skip the line to get in !

(14) Visit Little Hagia Sophia.

The Church of the Saints Sergius and Bacchus, also known as Little Hagia Sophia, is a former Eastern Orthodox church.

It is believed that this church was built as an architectural experiment by the same architects who would go on to build Hagia Sophia shortly after.

Better test things out on a smaller scale before committing to the main project, right?

(15) Go underground at the Basilica Cistern.

The Basilica Cistern is the largest of the ancient underground water cisterns found across Istanbul.

Most of the columns in the cistern appear to have been recycled from the ruins of other buildings, and among them you’ll find two carvings of Medusa’s head used as column bases, as well as a column with tear shaped engravings believed to have the power to make your wishes come true.

(16) Sample Turkish delight. 

Also known as  lokum  to locals, Turkish delight is a popular gummy treat.

The  best place to sample Turkish delight  is at Hafiz Mustafa, where you can choose from flavours that include rose, cinnamon, mint, strawberry, lemon, orange, kiwi, pomegranate and apple.

Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

(17) Indulge your sweet tooth with baklava.

The Turks really know what they are doing when it comes to sweets.

Baklava is made with layers of phyllo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.

Forget the scones and clotted cream; this is what you need at tea time !

(18) Drink a glass of Ayran. 

This is one of those drinks that you either love or hate. Ayran is considered the national drink in Turkey and it is a cold yogurt beverage mixed with salt.

It’s especially popular during the summer months.

(19) Test your bargaining skills at the Grand Bazaar.

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is a place for serious shoppers. With more than 3,000 shops and covering an estimated 61 streets, this place is dizzying yet so worth a visit.

You’ll notice that some streets specialize in certain goods with those shops selling nothing but leather, silverware, carpets, ceramics or spices.

There will be lots of glittery things to catch your eye, so you may want to come prepared to spend.

(20) Smoke hookah. 

Argilah, nargile, sheesha, hubbly bubbly – whatever you call it, there is an ample supply of hookah bars in Istanbul where you can lounge around while you smoke the water pipe and sip on a class of tea or coffee.

(21) Eat a doner. 

Doner is a Turkish dish made with meat cooked on a spinning vertical rotisserie.

The meat can be lamb, beef, or chicken, and it’s served in a pita with vegetables and a few toppings.

It’s a tasty and affordable lunch which you can find in any part of the city.

(22) Enjoy the view from Galata Tower. 

Located in Beyoğlu, this tower looks like it would be better suited as Rapunzel’s home in a fairy tale.

There is something magical about the pointed cylindrical roof, and the views from the outer balcony are breathtaking.

(23) Buy yourself a glass lamp. 

The colourful glass lamps you’ll see hanging in almost every establishment in the city make a great souvenir to take back home.

If you are looking for a bargain on these, I suggest you try purchasing them outside the Grand Bazaar and away from the main touristy areas; you’d be surprised at how drastically the prices drop.

A medium sized lamp should run you $15-20 USD.

(24) Dine with the best view of Istanbul. 

If you want a restaurant with a great view that won’t break your wallet, I recommend  Hamdi Restorant .

The 180-degree views showcase the Süleymaniye Mosque, Rüstempaşa Mosque, Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus.

Not only that, but they make a delicious köfte and roasted eggplant.

(25) Go to a belly-dancing show. 

If you’re after a performance with more of an entertainment factor, then you’re in luck because Hodjapasha Dance Theatre (the same venue that puts of the Whirling Dervish performance), also has folkloric and belly-dancing performances.

You can also watch a belly-dancing and folk show as you cruise down the Bosphorus. Prepare to be whisked back into 1001 Arabian Nights .

(26) Visit Istanbul Archaeological Museums. 

The Istanbul Archaeological Museums actually consists of 3 different museums which are located near Topkapi Palace.

These are the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient, and the Museum of Islamic Art.

If you enjoy getting up close with history, you’ll enjoy a visit here.

(27) Pet the stray cats. 

Istanbul is a city were cats reign supreme . The strays are well taken care of by locals who leave out food, water, and even pillows for these cats to sleep on.

(28) Visit the Chora Church.

The Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora may not be the largest of the Byzantine churches, but it’s certainly known for being one of the most beautiful.

The highlight are the various mosaic panels which recreate biblical scenes and still dazzle centuries later.

(29) See the Valens Aqueducts.

When the Romans passed through Istanbul, they began construction of a water system that would supply the city’s growing needs for fresh water.

The water that travelled down these aqueducts was stored in open reservoirs and underground cisterns across the city.

Today, the surviving section of the Valens Aqueduct is 921 metres long.

(30) Visit Beylerbeyi Palace. 

This palace, whose name means Lord of Lords, is situated on the Asian side of Istanbul.

The palace was built along the banks of the Bosphorus and it was used as the summer residence by the Ottomans.

(31) Have a home-cooked dinner with a local family.

This can be a fun way to get to know the local culture and try new dishes .

If you can’t get enough of the köfte , lahmacun , and pide , then consider some home-cooking and Turkish hospitality . 

(32) Feel like a giant at Miniatürk. 

This rather unique miniature park is home to small-scale recreations of structures found in Istanbul, Anatolia, and other Ottoman territories that today lie outside of Turkish borders.

(33) Have Sütlaç for dessert.

This is the Turkish version of rice pudding. It is said that the recipe made in Topkapi Palace contained rose water.

You can also get this dish with chopped walnuts and raisins, which I think adds a nice flavour.

(34) Take a day trip to the Princes’ Islands.

The Princes’ Islands is a cluster of 9 islands which lie off the Asian shores of Istanbul.

The islands get this name because during the Byzantine and early Ottoman period, members of dynasties who fell out of favour were often sent to exile there.

Today it is a popular place for families and couples to visit on the weekends , and the only form of transportation is horse and cart – very romantic.

(35) Visit the Blue Mosque.

Also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque’s two most striking features are its 6 minarets and blue domed exterior.

You’ll want to dress modestly and if you’re a woman you’ll need to wear a scarf over your head as this is still a functioning mosque.

(36) Eat Turkish pizza.

Lahmacun is considered to be the Turkish equivalent of pizza . This thin dough is topped with minced meat, vegetables and herbs.

(37) Go to the Maiden’s Tower.

There is much debate about the story behind this tower which sits on a small islet located at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus.

Local tale says that the tower was built by a wealthy man who was trying to protect his daughter from a prophecy spoken by an oracle – a prophecy foretelling the death of the man’s daughter by a snake bite.

To prevent these words from coming true, the father built a tower to keep his daughter safe in the water.

Of course, a snake would eventually find it’s way to the tower when the father came to visit with a basket full of fruit.

(38) Stroll along Emirgan Park.

This is one of the largest public parks in Istanbul and it is located along the banks of the Bosphorus.

Emirgan Park also plays host to the annual Tulip Festival, so you’ll want to check that out if you are in town in the spring.

(39) Hop over to the Asian continent.

Most visitors tend to stick to the European side, but if you venture over to the Asian side via ferry, you’ll find that the city has more of a local feel.

The pace of life seems a bit slower and there are hardly any tourists around.

(40) Eat Turkish ice cream. 

Turkish ice cream is called  dondurma  which literally means freezing.

What makes Turkish ice cream different from other types of ice cream is that it has a rather sticky texture and it is a bit more resistant to melting.

Don’t believe me? Take a bite and try not to get the stringy ice cream all over your face.

(41) Catch a football match. 

Istanbul has an extensive list of football clubs, so if you’re in town during the football season, you can catch a live game of footy.

(42) Ride the funicular.

If you need to give your legs a little rest, then riding the funicular is the easiest way to deal with Istanbul’s hills.

The Tünel line is the oldest underground metro line in continental Europe, and the second oldest in the world after London .

(43) Drink pomegranate juice.

Stop at one of the many street stands and order yourself a cup of freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.

It’s both tart and sweet, and the antioxidants offer great health benefits.

(44) Visit the Süleymaniye Mosque.

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia may be better known, but the Süleymaniye Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul. For that it is worth the visit .

(45) Race around the Hippodrome. 

Today a public square, the Hippodrome of Constantinople was a place for horse racing and chariot racing.

During the Byzantine empire, this place would have been the beating heart of social activity.

(46) Go to the Ortaköy Mosque. 

This mosque stands along the waterfront of Ortaköy pier square. While it is much smaller than many of the mosques in the city, Ortaköy Mosque is unique in the sense that it is a perfect example of Baroque architecture.

(47) Get a taste of royal life at Topkapi Palace.

Topkapi Palace is the largest royal residence in Istanbul and it served as the main residence to the Ottoman Sultans for almost 400 years.

The grounds are massive, but perhaps the most impressive part of it all are the Harem Apartments – a place with more than 400 rooms for the Sultan’s many concubines, wives, children, and extended family members.

You can get a skip the line ticket for Topkapi Palace here.

(48) Pretend you’re a sultan at Dolmabahçe Palace.

This palace was home to 6 different sultans towards the end of the Ottoman period.

While in the past the Sultan and his family had lived in Topkapi Palace, times were changing and the Ottoman’s felt Topkapi was lacking the luxury and style of the new era.

Naturally, a new palace had to be built. And what’s a new palace without the world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier? (Courtesy of Queen Victoria.)

You can book a 1-hour guided tour of the palace here.

(49) Walk along the Walls of Constantinople.

When Constantinople became the new capital of the Roman Empire, defensive walls were erected to fortify the city.

The 7-kilometre walk along the remaining portions of the wall offers a window into the past.

(50) Get lost and see what surprises the city throws your way.

Istanbul is a great city to get lost in. So if you’re feeling rather adventurous , why not leave the guidebook behind and just head out on foot to see what you can discover for yourself.

Where to stay in Istanbul

When it comes to finding accommodations in Istanbul, there’s no shortage of options. The hard part is deciding in which of the many neighbourhoods you want to stay ! Here are some different options for you to consider:

Sultanahmet

If you want to be in the heart of the Old City , then Sultanahmet is an excellent choice. You’ll be within walking distance to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Underground Cistern, the Grand Bazaar, and countless other attractions.

The only downside to this neighbourhood is that it can be a little bit pricey – you are paying for the location.

• Hotel Sultania  
• Four Seasons At Sultanahmet
• Sura Hagia Sophia
• Hotel Niles
• Ottoman Hotel Imperial
• Hotel Seraglio
• Cheers Hostel
• Bahaus Hostel
• Antique Hostel

What I like about this neighbourhood is that it has a local feel while still catering to visitors with shops , restaurants, and bars.

If you want to be in a very lively area, then stick close to Istiklal Avenue, and if you’re looking for a quieter area, you’ll also find it here – there are plenty of apartment rentals and small boutique hotels in the back streets.

Beyoglu has great transportation options and you can be in the Old City in a matter of 20-30 minutes.

Luxury: 

• Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah  
• InterContinental Istanbul  
• CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel

Mid-range: 

• Corinne Boutique Hotel  
• Peradays  
• Sanat Hotel Pera
• Stay Inn Taksim  
• World House Istanbul

This neighbourhood is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and it feels very local.

I found it to be a lot more relaxed than the European side, and the prices were also much lower.

Getting to the Old City from here is fairly easy as it’s just a matter of hopping on a ferry, but do keep in mind it’ll take you longer to reach the main attractions.

• Double Tree by Hilton
• Bossuite Hotel Kadikoy
• Istanbul Life Hotel  
• My Dora Hotel

Budget: 

• Hush Hostel Lounge Istanbul  
• Hostel Bahane
• Bristol Hostel

Have you been to Istanbul? What’s your favourite thing about the city?

120 Comments

I knew the (stray) cats were special in Istanbul! I was there just a couple of weeks ago and absolutely love it! http://sandierpastures.com/travel/europe/memories-of-istanbul.html

I can’t think of a better city for cat lovers 😉

Thank you for the information, Audrey. Very helpful!! I’m going to Turkey after a week and as a, woman traveling by myself, didn’t know what to do and what you suggested is very directive…. so is it safe to explore the city by myself? Will there be tour guide who can show around? Please kindly advise?

U were absolutely right about the Turkish Ice cream in fact I learnt that its made to be sticky .It is known as the stretchy ice cream which u can actually STRETCH !! this is due to some ingredients the Turkish use it is a 500 year old technique and is currently taking the world by storm .Its already hit UK and America ! Its nice to know it originated from Turkey.

SOLD! There were plans to go with Turkish-German friends to Istanbul, but that’ll have to wait. This post isn’t “helping” with that all important gravitational pull: to know, to see, to taste, to smell, to experience the “hot chaotic mess” that is Istanbul. Thanks for your post, Audrey!

Glad you enjoyed the post, Henry. Hopefully you’re able to reschedule the trip soon. It really is a great city to be in.

awesome, that is a lot of info to take in. bookmarked for that date who knows when in the future that i make it to turkey! 🙂

I hope you get to visit soon! There is so much to do there, you’ll need at least one week to cover the main sights. 🙂

This is a truly amazing and incredibly tempting list of opportunities to explore this incredible city! You have the gamut and offer something to delight everyone – and every sense!

Istanbul is one of most interesting, exotic, beautiful cities in the world. Add to that great Turkish food and the friendliest people…what more can you ask for? BTW the “pretzel with a sesame seeds” is called a simit. You can buy them from bakeries or stands, but you will also see boys carrying them on a wooden board on their heads, especially by the Galata Bridge…buy one from them!

This is a great list thanks Audrey! I will be heading to Turkey for the first time in a couple months so this will definitely come in handy.

Shaun http://www.thislifeintrips.com

Audrey! So many beautiful pictures! I am in love 🙂 🙂

I am so excited to finally be traveling to Istanbul this summer (and Europe in general as I’ve never been). This list will totally come in handy as I begin planning my trip!

I love how you compared the Galata Tower to Rapunzel’s home! My favourite part of Istanbul was Topkapi Palace, and second comes the Asian side with its local life. I wouldn’t mind going back to Istanbul and have more of it. It’s a city that has so much to offer!

Great list! You guys really did a lot. If I were to add anything it would be to learn to swing the tespe (prayer beads) Love the Kumpir, love it!! I also love the sloppy joes. Not sure what they’re called but they’re the best drunk food int he world 🙂

a kumpir sounds amazing

Great list Audrey! One of the best posts I’ve read from Istanbul.

What a comprehensive list! I too love your photos, especially the more intimate captures of life. I also thoroughly enjoy the suggestion to pet stray cats. Now I’m craving Turkish tea, a doner, and some hookah haha!

I love wandering around the spice markets when I’m anywhere in Turkey – the smells are gorgeous. As probably one of the biggest potato fans, I’m intrigued about this kumpir – hot, fluffy AND topped with olives, hot dogs, pickles, corn, peas, bulgur and more?! I need to get my hands on it.

Great list! The Blue Mosque looks amazing, much better than I though and seen it on TV. I would love to explore it one day. I love the idea of indulging myself in traditional Turkish börek :).

Wow. This is such a great list! I can’t believe I still haven’t been here.

Never been to Istanbul, but would love go! It’s an interesting destination with lots of unique things to experience. I’m looking forward to trying its different cuisines. 🙂

very concise posting. Although been there twice you realise you have not seen anything!!!

The best part: There’s plenty more to do in Istanbul!

Great list Audrey! Will definitely keep this in mind when I finally get myself to Istanbul. 🙂

We LOVED Istanbul and did a lot of the things on your list. We were lucky too because our really good friend is Turkish and he showed us the city!

I’ve never been to Istanbul but you really made me want to go NOW. There are plenty of things on your list that I’d happily do and experience. Thanks for the tips 😉

After reading this post, I think Istanbul is worth a visit. Your tips are really helpful in planning the trip.

Wow! I visited Istanbul earlier on this year and I thought I managed to cram a lot in! The only thing I would add is to watch some live Turkish folk music on a Sunday night at Munzur bar not far from Taksim Square. We were the only westerners in there, everyone was so friendly and we even got dragged up to join in with some Turkish dancing 🙂

Gosh, this brings back so many memories! I even ate at Hamdi Restorant! We seem to have many of the same tastes in activities as I did most of the non-meaty things you listed. Istanbul is such a wonderful city. One thing we did not listed here was to take the boat all the way up the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea. We chose a cloudy day, but we still got a foggy look at the Black Sea! Istanbul is totally worth a trip!

What a great list! Can’t wait to make it to Istanbul! 🙂

I’m going to Istanbul, Turkey in 5 days and I don’t have any plan in mind! This is really helping me lol! 🙂 I just really hope I can pronounce things right. I’m really Excited!!!!

Well, I’ve done all of these things in Istanbul except 25, 32 and 41. 🙂 Hiking around Rumeli Hisari and having kahvaltı by the Bosphorus are 2 of my fav things too!

Do you think it is necessary to hire an English speaking guide for the first day you arrive. We will be there in late may for six days.

No, you really don’t need a guide to show you around, unless of course you want one. It’s very easy to get around the city and visit the attractions on your own. If you would like a guided tour, there’s always the option of taking one of the hop-on-hop-off tours, which usually come with audio guides (or sometimes a real guide!).

I’m a Venezuelan and I love traveling! last year I backpacked through Europe with the inteRail awesome experience …… Good article and blog by the way! I’ll keep reading your adventures around the world.

If you go to Venezuela or plan to let me know, i might help you.

Regards, José F

You should also wander around “Balat”, in Golden Horn. Where is recently discovered by turkish bobos and thanks god still pure. If you check there from wikipedia, you’ll learn that it’s a jewish quarter. This information’s not completely wrong, but Balat is mainly and famously rum(in english greeks of Turkey) quarter. Probably the reason is that ancient jewish quarters are very known around the world by tourism and people don’t know nothing about rums. You should see “Fener Rum Erkek Lisesi”, an ancient minority high school, still active with its nearly fourty students. This is one of the most beautiful structures in Turkey, unfortunately not so popularised by turks. In Balat, you can see greek-named streets, ancient greek writings on the buildings. And also at the other side of the Fatih peninsula, there’s another beautiful and smaller rum fisherman quarter, Samatya. Perfect for “raki-balık”. :))

For all art events, travellers can check ” TimeOut Istanbul”website, which is in english. Turkey’s main event ticket company is “Biletix” which is in english too.

Great article covering all the things to see in Turkey. I would love to be there and hope your post will help me a lot of make a travel itinerary for Turkey. BTW, which DSLR camera did you use to take the photos? You shot some stunning photos 🙂

I’ve been to Istanbul for many times (8 I think, but who’s counting) and love it! Istanbul is probably the only city I would really LOVE to live. Like you wrote in your post, you just cannot get bored here! The mixture of old and new, traditional and modern lifestyle is simply unique! I think no matter, what interests people have, istanbul have it all! 🙂

Some additional things to try. Meet up with a local from Couch Surfing who can show you around. Best way to experience Turkish culture is with a Turk. Eat an ıslak burger in Taksim, perfect after clubbing/ late night pub food! Also, order a traditional Turkish ice cream. Very fun and unique experience. 🙂 Drink a Turkish coffee. (Most similar to espresso but definitely its own unique drink) There is a place near Taksim that is said to be the original Türk Kahvesi place. Play Tavla (backgammon) while you sip Turkish tea and smoke nargile. Drink Salep in the winter or traditional Ayran in the summer. Eat Mantı, with the garlic yogurt sauce, prepared by the village women! YUM! Try traditional Ottoman cuisine! Drink Rakı (Turkish alcoholic beverage) Especially if you like licorices (Rakı and licorices are both made from aniseed. Very potent meant to be drank with food (meze) fish or meat. Take care to drink slowly so you don’t become drunk. Eat at a Meyhane, a traditional Turkish restaurant. Drink Boza with cinnamon while you munch on some dried chickpeas. <3 Try a gözleme made in the traditional way by the village women! Spinach is my favorite. Visit Rumeli Hısarı (Rumeli Fortress) and climb the walls. Great view of the Bosphorus from the top and CHEAP 3TL entry fee. 😀 After visiting Rumeli, dine at one of the upscale fish restaurants on the Bosporus in Bebek. (Right beside the fortress) Beautiful sea view. Curious about Turkish history? Tons of things to do BUT check out the Military Museum (Near Taksim) and while you are there make sure you watch the traditional Ottoman band. Free with Museum admission. Wonderful cultural experience.

Thanks for that it was very helpful from you Nancy 🙂

Thanks for that it was very helpful from you 🙂 Hope I visit Istanbul soon.

Thank you for this list! Ooh- Cats! I am so looking forward to discovering these treasures next week when I travel to Istanbul with my friend for a holiday. I`ve been to Turkey a few years back, but have only ever stopped over at the airport in Istanbul en route to Izmir. So, it will be a great adventure to actually SEE the city this time!

Hi there, I am a person who was born and raised in Istanbul but moved out at 19 yo. This summer, we will visit Turkey for 3 weeks with my boyfriend (who is Indian) and did not know where to start and what to show. I loved your list and actually will definitely use it to plan wisely our days in Istanbul. Thank you 🙂

I’m glad to hear you found the article helpful, Alynna! Istanbul is such a fun city and I’m sure you and your boyfriend will have a wonderful time travelling there. Have a great trip! 🙂

Thanks so much for the insight of the city. Surely this is going to be a guide for me for our holiday.

perfect guide for istanbul!

Hi Audrey, what amazing tips about Istanbul, its helping me a lot to plan my trip to Turkey this year! Your blog is amazing! I hope you can visit my travel blog too: Packing my Suitcase 🙂

This is awesome.Next month I’m going to Istanbul and this is a list which will be done. Maybe I add some things, I hope so. Take care, kisses.

I am a Turkish girl living on the Asia side. I have a few suggestions for you as I have been living here for a long time. It is called simit not ‘sesame covered pretzels’ if you say that no one will understand. Don’t take the bus. There are smaller ones you can get on to. The big busses will be filled with locals and it is literally a torture get on, ride and get off. You can take the yellow taxis. But they are not the taxis you individually take. They are called dolmuş, it means filled actually. For a small amount of money you can go many great places. But since Turkish lira is cheap I suggest you take the taxi. Taxis, track the road and seem like you know where you are going. Because most of the taxi drivers will get off the road and charge you more. Bağdat Street, Kadıköy, Taksim are the best places you can shop. Many known labels have stores there such as Mango or Nine West and they are cheaper here. Beware the fake. There are many, many stores that sell it for really cheap. If they are piled up and about 30 they are fake. Most of the sellers have a tourist price. They sell stuff cheaper for locals and more expensive for tourists. Don’t try to walk anywhere you are not sure you can go. In European cities you can walk a city in a day but not in Turkey. Even if it seems close. It is not. If you are wandering in streets you don’t know, try to walk on crowded streets. Especially late at night. 1 Euro is 3 Turkish liras, so Turkey is one of the best places to shop. Even though İstanbul is the most expensive city. Don’t eat döner or any meat in corner streets. They are usually made of chicken or something else they will harm you. Look up for good places first before going. I hope you follow these and enjoy trip in İstanbul.

Ekin, I like the info you just presented. how do I reach you in Istanbul for more info? I will be in Istanbul from 26th September 2014 to 1st October 2014.

hi I’d like to know when the shops on Taksim square such as mango go on sale?? Once I travelled to Istanbul in july and they were all 70% discounted, wondering when that would happen again

Thank you for your suggestions! I Planning on visiting Istanbul in a few weeks and only staying for three days . Do you think we need a tour guy ? Thanks

Thank you so much for the post! Great information. As a woman, did you feel it’s a safe city. Me and my 2 sisters are considering a visit.

Spent a week in Istanbul 2 years ago and absolutely fell head over heels in love. I have quite a few stamps myself and Istanbul is to date my most favourite city in the world, with only Cape Town coming in at a close second. Busy planning a second trip to Turkey to see the rest of what this country has to offer and stumbled on your blog. I love ticking of lists, and could tick all 50. One of my favourites: listening to the call of prayer from the muezzins while lying on the grass (all seats on the park benches already taken) staring up at the sky and the trees overhead. Strangely peaceful and magical.

Yay!! Love this list!! I’m planning on a visit to Istanbul for a week in April 2015. Do you recommend a good book to read up on before my visit? I’m a little overwhelmed by ALL the different history of the city itself and the different changes it has made throughout history. Also, do you think 8 days is enough time to venture a little further from the city, maybe to Ephesus or Troy for a day? Not sure how far they are from the city, or how realistic it is to go to either on a day trip.

Hi Gretchen, apologies for the delay in replying. I’m just seeing your comment now. I think 8 days is plenty of time to cover a lot of the attractions in the city, that being said, it might be a tight schedule to make it to both Ephesus and Troy. I did some quick googling and it looks like the trip from Istanbul to Ephesus would take at least 10 hours one way so you’d likely want to stay overnight. And from Istanbul to Troy it appears to be 6 hours one way, and again, you’d probably want to spend the night there. I hope that helps a bit!

I only did 11 of thoses when I went to Istanbul- (7, 15,16,19,22,25,35,39, 44,47 & 48). Wish I’d had time to do number 37- sounds awesome! But I partied is Taksim as number 51 on your list instead 🙂

I am visiting Istanbul in next month for 3 days . In my tour package I have optional tours to 1) Bursa Full Day Tour: (Includes Lunch) & 2) Bosphorus+Topkapi Palace Tour : (Includes Lunch) I need to choose only one destination from the above two. Could any one please recommend which among them is best?

Hi Babitha, I didn’t go to Bursa, so I can’t really compare the two. Topkapi Palace is beautiful and you can easily spend a few hours wandering around, but personally, I did find the tour of the Bosphorous a little dull. I looked at Bursa online and it seems to have some really cool natural landscapes and it would also give you a chance to get out of Istanbul and experience a different city, so that’s something to consider. Ultimately, the choice is up to you.

You had me at #4 Kumpir. My best friend and I are planning our trip to Turkey right now and we both salivated at your picture of the baked potato =)

Please also do’not forget to do Helicopter Tour over istanbul..;) In 15 Min you can see a lot of places. And it is cheap starting from 49 Euro.

Pretty much covered everything. Thanks a ton, Audrey. This city and its people are amazing.

I am no fan of big cities as I usually find them boring and expensive but in the last week of November 2014 one of my very close friend dragged me literally to visit Istanbul. I am ever so grateful for this experience as the place just blew me away. No words can ever describe the subliminal charm of Istanbul on the new visitor . It Is like being exposed to a beautiful painting or natural beauty which appeals to your heart by bypassing reason.. Istanbul is neither Eastern or Western or Islamic or Christian or secular or modern it is all of those ALL at once. There is no other place like magical Istanbul. This pluralism is not just for show but because of its location where East meets West ISTANBUL has evolved that unique blend of values which cannot be found in any other City on earth.

Hello Navid, Planning to visit Istabmbul this Nov 18th through 23rd. How is the weather then, and if you can give me some tips what to do at that time in Istambul. Thanks

Thank you very much for this advice. I absolutely love Istanbul. Something that you may want to include in this blog is the culinary walks provided by http://www.spooninmypocket.com . I took one of them and it really shows the Turkish culture. The people in Istanbul absolutely love food and that really shows in the food we tasted during the tour. It is a nice change to the crowded, busy tourist spots in Istanbul

The Princes Islands is a MUST if your going to Istanbul. Heybeliada is stunning and less built up than Buyukada. Stay at The Karamanyan boutique apartments, for a trendy and chic romantic experience.

I do love Istanbul and looking forward to visit Istanbul in 2015 during summer holidays

If your travelling to the Princes’ Islands stop off at Heybeliada stay at the Karamanyan apartments, just voted in the top 10 self catering apartments in Turkey by The Guardian newspaper, they are run by an english couple. They offer an authentic and stylish island retreat, perfect for any traveller. The Karamanyan building itself is a 200 yr old Ottoman timber mansion that onced housed the visiting monks travelling to the 11th century monastery on the hill opposite. The Penthouse has stunning views to this monastery, and they stretch all the way back to Istanbul city. In the evening you can see the city lights twinkling as dusk settle in. Check out the website: http://www.karamanyan.com

What a wonderful list, Audrey. I started with ten things to do in Istanbul but I’m thinking it could easily grow to over a hundred. Istanbul is such a fascinating city. http://packinglighttravel.com/destinations/ten-things-to-do-in-istanbul/

I just went to Istanbul and Cappadocia with my husband to celebrate our 8 wedding anniversary. We almost followed ur entire list in Istanbul in 5 days. And i must compliment u for such details as it was a great guideline to get insights of Istanbul as a local.

Thanks so much for this great list of things to see and do in Istanbul. We are stopping over for 5 days this summer and are just starting do our research and your list is an excellent start. I also enjoyed the comments added by everyone. Thanks very much, we are excited about our upcoming trip.

İstanbul is very big old city with beautiful places. I’m living in İstanbul. I’m a student so i can show you the beauties of the city. I can share my flat.Just e mail me the date of visit. They are all free. I just want to improve my English. e-mail: [email protected]

This is the best list to discover Istanbul! If you try to do all of these things, you need more than 10 days but I think it will be unforgetable journey in your life 😉

Cheers, http://www.wetravelturkey.com

I absolutely love Istanbul, the city where east meet west. You definitely have to take an Istanbul Food Walks Tour. Its a great way to get off the tourist trail and explore and taste the real istanbul. IstanbulFoodWalks.com . Best part of the trip!

Thanks so much for all this information. I head to istanbul in two weeks time for four days and didn’t really know what to do. Now my list is full and I’m looking forward to trying lots of tasty food. Thanks so much. X

Hello Audrey, i know we are not in Istanbul but we would love to see the Blue Cruise http://www.mybluecrusie.com listed on your list, i think blue cruises is in top ten things to do. Please check it out and if you travel south be our guest on board. Thanks Kind Regards Ali

I will be in Istanbul this May 7-13, 2015 and thank you for all these tips and recommendations, very useful.

Wow. This is a great list. Thanks for posting it. I arrived today and am very excited to do as much of this list as possible.

woow sounds like soo much fun I can’t wait I’m going in 2015 summer holidays for two weeks really excited … I hope it’s a memorable trip ..still don’t know what hotel to stay at though cud anyone reccomend a nice quiet friendly place ? Thanks

istanbul is great city with friendly people too friendly but i enjoyed every minute i loved the cats and the cruise and the dances

You made a great list.But i think you didnt go Nevizade. You must go Nevizade to drink a little alcohol or hot/cold drink with crowds.People enjoy with in istanbul

I am a local and I must say this is a very good list 🙂

Great list of things to see and do in Istanbul. I am heading to Turkey in August. Keep it up 🙂

What time of the year did you visit? I plan on going in December and it’s been difficult trying to find things to do during that time.

Hi Michelle, I was there in October and November and the city was still buzzing with activity. The main attractions would be open year round – except for a handful of holidays – but it really shouldn’t affect your travel plans.

I read your article and absolutely loved it! In fact I went to Istanbul last November for a week and experienced everything that you had mentioned.!! It is a magical city for sure…from people to food to sights and ambiance!!!! I fell in love with the city!!

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı): This is a very magical underground cistern with dimmed light; there comes a classical music and sound of dripping water. Its a very romantic experience. Its like you find yourself at one of the fairy tales.. This is my all time favorite spot in Istanbul.

If you are visiting Istanbul and searching for a unique local experience, as a local, i can share my top 20 to do list with you. Please contact me so that I can email it to you.

Also I am an Airbnb host, having an apartment located 10 mins walk to Taksim Square. I love meeting new people and share my experiences with them. Lets keep in touch!.

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/6943257

Your blog was my guide ?

Hi guys. I live in Istanbul since I was born 🙂 Istanbul is still incredible to me and wonderful, exotic.. all of you must see. Have a nice day!

This is a great comprehensive list. There are so many amazing things to see and do in Istanbul, but also outside of Istanbul.

I cannot recommend Kapadocia (Cappadocia), Pamukkale Travertines and the ancient Roman cities of Hierapolis and Ephesus enough, not to mention the underground city of Derinkuyu. I absolutely love Turkey and cannot wait to head back there. So much history and culture. Thank you so much for reminding me 🙂

Hello, i will be leaving for ISTANBUL this september 2015 ,Hope this guidance will help me there,are there any good night clubs/discos???

This is ONE AMAZING and very thorough guide. You’re not working for the tourism board are you? I will recommend it to anyone going to Istanbul – and only wish I had a ticket in my hand right now so I could do everything you suggested.

Great list of things to see and do in Istanbul. I am heading to Turkey in August. It really is a great city to be in.

Thanks! Glad the article was helpful. Enjoy your trip to Turkey. 🙂

Great Insight. I am travelling to Istanbul in December (Alone) and was wondering what all can I do. I am spending about 5 nights there. I am sure I would be able to cover most of the city with your help. Thanks again! 🙂

Thanks a lot for information given here. I have a plan to visit Istanbul on May 2016. Really can’t wait to experience this nice city ?

Even local people who lives in Istanbul should take this post as reference. 🙂 I am sure they miss some of them. Great tips after all. Thank you for sharing.

I might be coming this Feb 2016 in Istanbul, any recommendations for a decent but cheap hostel?

I’ve always rented a mix of private rooms or apartments through AirBnB when visiting, so I can’t personally recommend any hostels based on first-hand experience. That being said, I’d suggest going on Hostelworld and choosing a place based on the ratings and reviews. Enjoy Istanbul! 🙂

This is a great guide for the future visitors and for locals also. Thanks…

AUDREY love you I followed all your recommendation I really enjoyed If you people want a cheap shopping and absorbed a Turkish culture (very quite) just goto Asian Side area is Uskudar from kabatash take a boat ride price is 4 lira one way you will really enjoy. Must see tokapi palace hagia Sophiya and Galata Tower.

This post brings back so many great memories of Istanbul. The call of prayers between the mosques was almost like a “rap-off” amazing. And the calls of “chai chai chai” as men walked around offering tea for 1 lira. Great people and even better food. Midye Dolma is one of my top 10 street foods of all time and Kadikoy market is great for food, much better than the Spice Bazaar.

We spent 2 months in Istanbul and haven’t seen it all. Although we ate almost all the dishes available! Absolutely love Turkish food! Planning our return to Istanbul in a couple of months 🙂

You have posted really nice article. This helped a lot to me as I’ll be visiting Turkey next month for my official trip. I will surely visit the places you have mentioned. Turkish food especially dondurma is the most enticing thing which I want to try.

Thanks for sharing superlative list of places and other things to-do in Turkey. 🙂

Eating a kumpir in Istanbul, bathing in a hamam, touring Bosporus, Hagia Sophia, is in my bucket list. Not exactly this. But I would like to do everything from this list. This is a lot of info. Deciding on one thing is difficult.

Hey Aaudrey, You have covered the places so amazingly! I will be visiting istanbul this month for an academic conference and will have just two days to visit the places. Is there anything you can suggest.

What a wonderful post! I want to share another tip for transportation: If you have internet connection on your tablet or mobile phone, use https://taksiyle.com/en just before taking a taxi from airport, hotel or restaurant. It will help you to avoid potential taxi scams in Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya and other metropolitan areas in Turkey. Also it will give an outline about the routings.

Great tips to know about Istanbul. I loved that pretty cat. Thank you for sharing.

seriously! this is the best article i have read for my plan to turkey!! simply, you are awesome.i like how you organize it in points along with pictures and brief explanation for everything. i’ll take it copy paste and follow your words 😀 ….love it sincerely…

Also love the colourfull streets in Balat. And you can make a jump-photo above the Buyuk Valide Han with the istanbul view. You can also see istanbul at the Galatatower. Go to Uskudar to Maidentower, little island, for another view. Don’t forget the Turkish breakfast. I love Istanbul, the city with character.

What an amazing guide to Istanbul!. Just like you, it is one of my favorite cities too. Hope to be back in Istanbul soon!

Love your post! Travelling to Istanbul next month and I haven’t decided where to go and what to see. Thanks for the list ❤

Very useful list. Thanks for this information. I really love Istanbul.

Love Your youtube Channel, you both make a great couple. You are inspiration and I have started a travel blog!

I love Turkey and İstanbul! Thank you.

Istanbul is a fantastic place to be, cant wait to be there again for the 2019 UEFA Super Cup Finals. How is the internet connectivity in Instanbul cause I need the internet to remain online. A friend of mine recommended rentnconnect and Skyroam pocket WiFis let me know if anyone has had an experience with the two companies

hey thanks for the great article!

Istanbul is a great city especially in winter!

It is a great article, great things to do listed in Istanbul, but one of the best things can be free walking tour in the old city with official tour guides. They give great understanding history of Istanbul, This a good one that you may like to check; http://www.freeistanbultours.com

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BLOG , Citytrips , Destinations , ISTANBUL , Middle East , Turkey · September 17, 2023

• The 14 Very Best Things To Do in Istanbul

Are you looking for the best things to do in Istanbul? This is the perfect city for a 3 day city trip and after arriving it quickly became one of my favourite cities ever to visit.

Istanbul, formerly known as Byzanthium and Constantinople , is a transcontinental city in Turkey with one part being in Europe and the other one in Asia. The city is divided by the Bosphorus strait, which separates Europe from Asia and which makes Istanbul a bridge between East and West .  

Istanbul is becoming more and more popular since it has been gaining a lot of popularity on Social Media in the past months. It’s the ideal city to start your trip through Turkey if you’re planning on visiting several regions of this beautiful country.  

How to visit Istanbul

Ah, Istanbul! The magical city where East meets West, and history intertwines with modernity. So, you’re thinking of heading to this mesmerizing metropolis? Here’s how you can get there:

• By Air : Istanbul is served by two main airports. Istanbul Airport (IST) is the primary international gateway, welcoming flights from all over the world. It’s a state-of-the-art facility and one of the busiest in Europe. Then there’s Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, which also handles a mix of domestic and international flights. Major airlines from around the globe have direct flights to Istanbul, making it easily accessible.
• By Train : If you’re in Europe or parts of Asia, you can also reach Istanbul by train. The city is connected to various European destinations through international train services. The historic Sirkeci and Haydarpaşa train stations have seen countless travelers embark on epic journeys over the years.
• By Bus : International bus services connect Istanbul to various cities in Europe and Asia. The main bus terminal, Esenler Otogar, is a hub of activity, with buses coming in and out from places like Greece, Bulgaria, and other neighboring countries.
• By Sea : Istanbul, being a city that straddles two continents, has always had a strong connection to the sea. There are regular ferry services from various Aegean and Mediterranean cities in Turkey. Plus, many cruise ships include Istanbul as a major stop on their itineraries.
• By Road : If you’re up for a road trip, driving to Istanbul is an option. Well-maintained highways connect the city to various parts of Turkey and neighboring countries. Just remember to familiarize yourself with local driving regulations and ensure your vehicle meets all requirements.

Once you’re in Istanbul, the city’s extensive public transportation system, including trams, metros, ferries, and buses, makes it easy to explore every nook and cranny . Safe travels, and enjoy every moment in this city of dreams!

Is Istanbul worth visiting?

Absolutely! Let me give you a glimpse of why this city is a must-visit!

First off, Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents: Europe and Asia . Just taking a ferry ride across the Bosphorus gives you the thrill of hopping between two continents in mere minutes. How cool is that?

History buffs, you’re in for a treat! Istanbul, formerly known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, has been the capital of three grand empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman . Each has left its mark, from the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, which has stood tall since the 6th century, to the majestic Topkapi Palace, which whispers tales of sultans and their intriguing courtly life.

For the shopaholics, the Grand Bazaar awaits . One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, it’s a maze of vibrant stalls selling everything from spices to exquisite carpets. And speaking of spices, the Spice Bazaar is a sensory overload of colors and aromas.

Foodies, Istanbul is your playground. Dive into a world of flavors, from the humble yet delicious simit (a sesame-crusted bread ring) to the rich and decadent baklava. And let’s not forget the kebabs, mezes, and the iconic Turkish delight!

Nature lovers aren’t left out either. The Bosphorus, with its shimmering waters, offers stunning sunset cruises. The city’s many parks and tea gardens provide tranquil spots to relax and soak in the ambiance.

In a nutshell, Istanbul is a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty.

Is Istanbul safe to visit?

When it comes to Istanbul, the answer is generally, “Yes, but like any major city, it’s always good to be cautious.”

Istanbul, being a major tourist hub, is as safe as most other big cities around the world. Thousands of travelers, from solo adventurers to families, visit every year and have a fantastic time. The Turkish people are known for their warmth and hospitality, and they often go out of their way to help visitors.

However, just like when you’re exploring New York, Paris, or Tokyo, there are certain precautions you should take:

• Scams and Pickpockets – Popular tourist areas can sometimes attract pickpockets. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places like the Grand Bazaar or on public transport. As for scams, they’re not widespread, but it’s always good to be aware and avoid situations that seem too good to be true.
• Political Demonstrations – Like many places globally, Istanbul can occasionally see political demonstrations. It’s best to steer clear of large gatherings or protests, just to be on the safe side.
• Travel Advisories – It’s always a good idea to check your country’s travel advisories before heading to any destination. They provide up-to-date information that can be helpful for your trip.
• Cultural Sensitivity – Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. A little cultural awareness goes a long way in ensuring smooth interactions.
• Stay Informed – Like any smart traveler, keep the contact details of your embassy or consulate handy, know the local emergency numbers, and inform someone about your whereabouts.
• Trust Your Instincts – If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut. Whether it’s an alleyway that seems dodgy or an overly insistent vendor, it’s okay to walk away.

The best time to visit Istanbul

Let’s break down the best times to visit Istanbul, season by season!

Spring (March to May)

• 🌸 Blooming Beauty : The city comes alive with blossoming flowers, especially in parks like Emirgan and Gülhane.
• 🌡️ Mild Temperatures : The weather is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for sightseeing.
• 🚶‍♂️ Less Crowded : Before the summer rush, you can explore popular spots without the big crowds.
• 🎭 Tulip Festival : Usually held in April, the city is adorned with millions of tulips in vibrant colors.

Summer (June to August)

• ☀️ Sunny Days : Expect clear skies and warm temperatures, but it can get quite hot in July and August.
• 🎤 Festivals Galore : From music to art, summer is packed with cultural events and festivals.
• 🌊 Bosphorus Cruises : Perfect time for a refreshing boat ride on the Bosphorus.
• 🛍️ Busy Streets : This is peak tourist season, so expect more crowds, especially in popular areas.

Autumn (September to November)

• 🍁 Scenic Beauty : The city turns into a palette of warm autumnal hues, especially around the Bosphorus.
• 🌡️ Cooler Climate : The sweltering heat subsides, making way for cooler, comfortable temperatures.
• 🍴 Food Festivals : A great time to indulge in local delicacies as various food festivals take place.
• 📸 Ideal for Photography : The golden light combined with the fall colors makes it a photographer’s dream.

Winter (December to February)

• ❄️ Chilly Days : While snowfall isn’t frequent, the city does get a dusting of snow, turning it into a winter wonderland.
• ☕ Cozy Cafes : Perfect time to snuggle up in a local café with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.
• 🎄 New Year Celebrations : The city lights up for New Year’s Eve, especially around Taksim and Beşiktaş.
• 🛍️ Winter Sales : Shopaholics can rejoice as many stores offer winter discounts.

The 14 very best things to do in Istanbul

1. get the istanbul tourist pass.

The Istanbul Tourist Pass is your golden ticket to exploring the mesmerizing city of Istanbul without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for each attraction.

With this pass in your pocket, you can gain free access to over 100 top attractions in the city. Whether you’re eager to delve into the rich history of the Hagia Sophia, climb the Galata Tower for a panoramic view, or set sail on a Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, this pass has got you covered. And the best part? You can choose the duration of your pass, ranging from 1 to 10 days, giving you the flexibility to plan your trip just the way you like it.

But wait, there’s more! Beyond just entry to attractions, the Istanbul Tourist Pass offers a range of benefits to make your trip smooth and enjoyable .

Tired of waiting in long ticket lines? With this pass, you can skip right through and feel like a VIP. Plus, it’s all digital, so no need to juggle paper tickets. Just scan your phone, and you’re good to go . And if you’re looking to get around the city, some versions of the pass even offer discounts on public transportation.

In short, it’s a traveler’s best friend in Istanbul, ensuring you save both time and money while soaking in all the wonders this city has to offer.

2. Visit the Hagia Sophia – One of the most famous Istanbul attractions

If you think of Istanbul, you most likely automatically see a photograph of the world famous Hagia Sophia in front of you. It’s no wonder that visiting the Hagia Sophia is one of the best things to do during your visit in Istanbul!

The Hagia Sophia may not be the oldest intact building in the entire world, but it definitely comes close. It was originally built in 360 AD but has since then been rebuilt a couple of times. The latest version is over 1482 years old and truly withstood the test of time, surviving multiple earthquakes.

The current Hagia Sophia was used as a church for the first 916 years and as a mosque for 481 years. It wasn’t until 1934 that the Hagia Sophia was turned into a museum .

Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque again with a decision taken in 2020 . For this reason, there is no longer a need to buy tickets at the entrance. Anyone can worship in it or visit it to explore the building.

Opening hours – Hagia Sophia is open every day of the week from 9am – 10pm. However, since it is a mosque, it is partially closed to touristic visits during prayer hours.

Entrance Fee – The entrance fee to Hagia Sophia was 100 Turkish Liras before it was converted into a mosque. However, you no longer have to pay at the entrance. Hagia Sophia visit is free like other mosques in Istanbul.

3. Visit the Sultan Ahmed Mosque – One of the top things to see in Istanbul

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque , is right across from the Hagia Sophia. So it makes total sense to visit these cultural masterpieces in one morning. Its nickname seems kind of strange when you’re on the outside, but once you step inside of the mosque it will become all the more clear. More than 20 000 handmade ceramic Iznik tiles decorate the interior, different floral motives and the mosque gets its light through more than 260 stained glass windows.

The Blue Mosque is one of the most majestic Ottoman mosques in all of Turkey and it’s the one and only mosque in Istanbul with no less than 6 minarets. It was built between 1609 and 1616AD and until this day the mosque is actively used for daily and congregational prayers . Nevertheless it also became one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul.

Did you know that the reason behind these 6 minarets is actually just a simple misunderstanding? The word for gold and six is pretty similar. The sultan asked for gold minarets (altin minaret), but the architect understood alti minaret, which means six minarets. This ordeal made the sultan apparently so upset that he didn’t even fix the mistake but instead he ordered a seventh minaret to be placed on top of the Prophet’s Mosque in Mecca. Talking about overcompensating….

Opening hours – 8.30am and it closes 30 minutes during prayer time 5 times a day. You can find the exact opening hours of that day outside on the wall of the mosque. The best time to visit the Blue Mosque is during 8.30am and 11.30am.

Entrance fee – Free. A guided Blue Mosque tour is included in the Istanbul Tourist Pass .

Dress Code – The dress code of Blue Mosque is a bit stricter than other mosques in Istanbul. It would be better for female visitors to bring a scarf with them. If you forget, you can borrow one from the kiosk in the garden. In addition, visitors need to wear clothes that cover their shoulders and knees.

4. Go shopping in the Grand Bazaar – One of the most famous Istanbul tourist attractions

This will probably be one of the best and most fun things that you’ll do when you’re in Istanbul!

The Grand Bazaar, or “Kapalıçarşı” as it’s known locally, is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets . Its story begins in the 15th century, right after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Sultan Mehmed II kickstarted its construction in 1455, intending to revitalize the city’s economy.

Initially, the bazaar consisted of two wooden buildings dedicated to the trading of textiles. Over the years, as the empire expanded and trade flourished, the bazaar grew in size and significance. Fires, earthquakes, and other calamities occasionally struck, but each time, the bazaar was rebuilt, often grander than before.

Fast forward to today, and the Grand Bazaar sprawls over 61 streets, housing more than 4,000 shops!

From shimmering jewelry and aromatic spices to intricate carpets and colorful ceramics, it’s a treasure trove of goods. As you wander its maze-like alleys, you’re not just shopping; you’re walking through layers of history.

Opening hours – The Grand Bazaar is open every day from 8.30am to 7pm, except Sundays and the first day of religious holidays.

Entrance – Entrance to the Grand Bazaar is free of charge.

Guided Tour – If you want to learn more about the history of the Grand Bazaar you’ll love this guided tour of the Dolmabahçe Palace and the Grand Bazaar .

5. Visit the Ortakoy Mosque – One of the more unique things to do in Istanbul

One of the best things to do in Istanbul is to go out for a sunset stroll. And why not head all the way to the Bosphorus bridge? In front of it you’ll find one of my personal favorite mosques: the Ortakoy Mosque.

It’s in this exact spot that the beauty of Istanbul comes to life and that you can see the vast contrast between the traditional and modern architecture.

The Ortakoy Mosque is designed by the same architect who created the Dolmabahçe Palace and while you’re here you should definitely check out the surrounding area. It used to be a rather sleepy fishing village but now it holds some of Istanbul’s best nightlife and dining options.

Opening hours – The Ortakoy Mosque is open every day from 4am until 10pm

6. Stay at a hotel with a view over Istanbul

Nestled in the heart of Sultanahmet, the Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel is a traveler’s dream come true. Imagine waking up to a view that showcases the best of Europe and the Anatolian side.

With a whopping 222 rooms, each designed in six unique styles, the hotel promises a blend of luxury and comfort. And speaking of luxury, ever fancied experiencing the opulence of Ottoman palaces? The hotel’s historical Ottoman Bath offers just that, allowing guests to indulge in the same experiences once reserved for sultans.

If relaxation is on your mind, the Spa Soul is the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

But what truly sets the Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel apart is its unbeatable location . It’s a stone’s throw away from iconic landmarks like Sultanahmet Square, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. And for those who love the hustle and bustle of city life, Taksim Square, a favorite among tourists, is easily accessible.

So, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich history, while also enjoying modern amenities, this hotel is the perfect choice. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, the Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel promises an unforgettable stay.

7. Marvel at the Dolmabahçe Palace – One of the most beautiful places in Istanbul

The Dolmabahçe Palace was Istanbul’s first European style palace and was commissioned by Sultan Abdül Mecit in 1843 . After the project was finished the sultan decided to move from his original humble abode, the Topkapi Palace to the Dolmabahçe Palace since the latter was able to provide modern luxuries.

The real reason behind it’s opulence is actually pretty sad: to cover up that the Ottoman Empire was in decline. The result is a two-floor palace, covering an area of 45.000 m², containing 285 rooms, 44 halls, 68 toilets and 6 baths. I guess we can put this in the same overcompensating category. The designer of the Paris Opera was also brought in to do the interiors, which also explains their exaggerated theatricality.

The tourist entrance to the Dolmabahçe Palace is at the imperial gate and be prepared to be there early morning. Only 3000 people per day are allowed inside and on weekends and during holidays this number is almost always reached. Nevertheless if you arrive too long after opening time you will have to queue for a  while in the blistering sun. During your visit head to the Palace Gardens first (go right instead of entering the Palace). You can’t take photos inside the palace anyway so the best thing to do is start by visiting the Palace Gardens before they get overcrowded with tourists.

Opening hours – 9am – 5.30pm (closed on Mondays)

Entrance fee – 650TRY. This ticket covers all three parts of the palace. These are the main building of the palace, the Harem rooms and the painting museum. The ticket includes the audio guide. Or included in the Istanbul Tourist Pass .

💡 TIP – You can enter the palace faster if you  buy tickets for Dolmabahçe Palace online .

8. Climb up the Galata Tower – One of the best sights to see in Istanbul

Ah, the Galata Tower! A beacon of Istanbul’s skyline and a testament to the city’s rich tapestry of history. This iconic structure, originally known as the Tower of Christ, was built in 1348 during an expansion of the Genoese colony in Constantinople.

It served as a watchtower for fires, given its impressive height, and was the tallest building in the city for centuries . The Genoese, those crafty traders from Italy, used it not just for defense but also as an observatory to keep an eye on the bustling harbor below.

Over the years, the Galata Tower has worn many hats. It’s been a prison, an observatory, and even a place for daredevil aviators!

Today, after surviving fires, earthquakes, and restorations, the tower stands proud, offering visitors panoramic views of Istanbul’s enchanting landscape.

To me, on the other hand, it looked like Rapunzel’s tower :p.

Opening hours – 8.30am to 11pm

Entrance fee – 650TRY or included in the Istanbul Tourist Pass .

9. Rainbow colors of Balat – A unique thing to do in Istanbul

Balat is one of the oldest and definitely most colorful districts in Istanbul.

The most characteristic feature about Balat are its small cobble stoned streets lined with colorful houses. Most of these wooden houses are between 50 and 200 years old! Balat also holds a mix of synagogues, mosques and churches, something you also don’t see every day!

It used to be the district that a lot of minorities called home but after several earthquakes many of the Jewish and Greek Orthodox families fled the district.

These days Balat is transforming more and more into a hipster district . Buildings are being renovated and cute bars and cafe’s are setting up shop all around.

It’s no wonder that you’ll probably hang around here for a couple of hours! Take your time to explore and you might want to take a breather on one of the sidewalks now and again cause the streets can be pretty steep. 🙂

10. Suleymaniye Mosque

The Suleymaniye Mosque, perched majestically atop Istanbul’s third hill , is a masterpiece that beautifully encapsulates the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. Beyond its religious significance, the mosque was also a statement of Sultan Suleiman’s power and influence, showcasing the zenith of the empire’s artistic and architectural prowess.

Over the centuries, the Suleymaniye Mosque has withstood fires, earthquakes, and even wars. Yet, each time, it has been lovingly restored, preserving its original splendor. Inside, the mosque is a serene oasis, with intricate Iznik tiles, stained glass windows, and calligraphy adorning its walls.

The mosque complex also houses a library, a school, and the tombs of Sultan Suleiman and his beloved wife, Roxelana. Today, the Suleymaniye Mosque stands as a testament to Istanbul’s rich heritage, drawing visitors from around the world, not just as a place of worship, but as a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit and timeless beauty.

Opening hours – From 9am until 5pm

Entrance fee – Just like any other mosque in Istanbul the entrance to the Suleymaniye Mosque is free of charge.

11. Sunset tea at the Maiden’s Tower – Best thing to do in Istanbul for couples

The Maiden’s Tower look out point is located on the Asian side of Istanbul . You can easily get there by taking the subway to Uskudar station . Once outside you follow the riverbank to the left and you’ll come across the famous look out point.

Watching the sunset at the Maiden’s Tower is one of the most popular and fun things to do in Istanbul! So don’t expect to be the only one here. It’s best to arrive 1 hour before sunset to score yourself a seat. While you’re at it, don’t forget to order some Turkish tea and a pretzel!

💡 TIP – Istanbul Tourist Pass includes a Maiden’s Tower Audio Guide with Two-way Boat Transfer

12. Visit the Spice Bazaar for some true Istanbul sightseeing

One of the things you have to do when visiting Istanbul is drop by the Spice Bazaar . This Bazaar is not to be mistaken for the Grand Bazaar. And while the latter may be more famous for its grandeur this one is definitely the most fun! Nothing like strolling around and getting to try and taste all of the different scents and flavors.

You can find pretty much every spice here that you can possibly think of. So why not take home some typical Turkish spices so you can keep on eating those delicious Turkish dishes when you’re back home. Some spices to look out for: Sumac, Pul Biber, Nar Eksisi, Cörek otu, Saffron.

13. Visit the colorful Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is a vibrant window into the city’s royal past. Perched at the meeting point of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, this 15th-century palace was the epicenter of the Ottoman Empire for four centuries . As you meander through its lavish courtyards and rooms, tales of sultans, intrigue, and treasures come alive, transporting you to an era of unparalleled splendor.

Beyond its grand architecture, Topkapi boasts a treasure trove of relics, including the Prophet Muhammad’s cloak and sword. The Imperial Harem offers a peek into the private lives of the sultans, while the Imperial Treasury showcases a dazzling array of jewels and artifacts.

Wrapping up a visit with a stroll in the palace gardens, you’re treated to panoramic views of Istanbul, making the Topkapi experience truly unforgettable.

Opening hours – The Topkapi Palace is open from m 9am to 6pm and is closed on Tuesday

Entrance fee – 750TRY. The ticket price includes the Hagia Irene Museum in the first courtyard of the palace and the audio guide. The price of the harem ticket alone is 350 TL. However, if you buy a combined ticket that covers all three sections, it costs 950 TL. But a guided Topkapi Palace Museum Tour is also incuded in the Istanbul Tourist Pass

14. Walk through Rainbow Street

Karaköy is the perfect neighborhood to visit in Istanbul. Rainbow Street, officially known as Hoca Tahsin Street, is where you can see the real face of Istanbul. There are a ton of places here to enjoy a coffee, watch art and eat a delicious meal.

Getting around in Istanbul

There’s a ton of public transport in Istanbul. The trams, metros and busses go through the entire city. To go from the European to the Asian site it’s best to either use the metro or one of the ferries!

There are a lot of taxis driving around in Istanbul but they are not always as reliable and you will have to be very clear on agreeing a price from before!

You can either pay in cash or buy the Istanbul Kart . You can find it either at the airport or in the city itself. You can top up this card and pay with it on all of the public transport. If you’re traveling in group you only need to buy 1 Istanbul Kart and you can use it for all of you.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Since the city is divided between Europe and Asia you will first have to make a choice where you would prefer to stay.   The European side is the more commercial one and holds almost all of the main sights. So if you don’t feel like travelling too much back and forward I would advise you to find a hotel located on this side.    

Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel – I loved that my room came with a view over the Hagia Sophia, breakfast is amazing and they even have a garden and swimming pool!

Berjer Hotel – To stay near Taksim square (the main airport drop-off). Make sure to also check out their spa treatments when you’re staying here.

Corinne Hotel – For easy access to the public transport. 

Map of the very best things to do in Istanbul

🗺️  How to Use This Map:  Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are enough for visiting istanbul.

Ideally, to truly soak in its essence, a 5 to 7-day trip would be perfect. This allows you ample time to explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar, while also leaving room for leisurely strolls along the Bosphorus, savoring local delicacies, and perhaps even catching a mesmerizing Whirling Dervish performance.

However, even a shorter 3-day trip can give you a delightful taste of the city’s highlights. Ultimately, no matter how long you stay, Istanbul is sure to leave an indelible mark on your traveler’s heart.

Is Istanbul affordable to visit?

For the budget-conscious traveler, Istanbul is quite a gem. Street food like kebabs and simits are not only delicious but also easy on the pocket. Accommodations range from cozy hostels to luxurious hotels, allowing you to pick what suits your budget best.

Public transportation is efficient and reasonably priced, making it easy to explore the city without breaking the bank. Of course, like any major city, there are upscale dining and shopping options that can be pricier. But with a bit of planning and some local insights, experiencing the magic of Istanbul without splurging excessively is entirely possible.

In essence, the city offers a rich travel experience that doesn’t necessarily demand a hefty price tag.

Do you tip in Turkey?

Absolutely! In Turkey, tipping, or “bahşiş” as it’s locally known, is a common practice, though not obligatory. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant, sipping tea at a café, or taking a ride in a taxi, a small tip is always appreciated. At eateries, leaving around 5-10% of the bill is a nice gesture, especially if you’re pleased with the service.

Do you need cash in Istanbul?

It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand. Especially when you’re exploring bustling bazaars, hopping onto public transportation, or indulging in street food, cash is king.

Smaller establishments, local markets, or traditional teahouses might not have card facilities. Plus, when it comes to haggling in places like the Grand Bazaar, cash can sometimes get you a better deal.

So, while you don’t need to carry a hefty wad of bills, having a mix of both card and cash is the smart way to navigate the vibrant streets of Istanbul.

📚 More articles about Turkey

• Top 13 Very Best Things To Do in Cappadocia
• The 10 Very Best Cave Hotels In Cappadocia
• How To Visit The Travertine Terraces At Pamukkale in Turkey
• The 24 Most Beautiful Places in Turkey – The Perfect 2 Weeks Turkey Itinerary
• Where to stay in Istanbul: Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel
• Where to stay in Cappadocia – Mithra Cave Hotel

All rights reserved © Charlies Wanderings. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.

Charlotte Lint is the founder, main photographer and writer of Charlies Wanderings . She has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing insightful hiking guides and creating unique and efficient travel itineraries . Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

You’ll Also Love

May 1, 2020 at 9:18 pm

Again, another great post. One for the bucket list!

Charlotte says

May 2, 2020 at 6:57 am

Thank you so much Sara!

madhu sharma says

May 9, 2020 at 8:33 am

Istanbul is a lovely place so rich in culture and tradition, it’s on my bucketlist for long.thanks for sharing the activities. Saving it for future

May 9, 2020 at 9:36 am

Thank you so much! So happy to hear that! 🙂

May 9, 2020 at 11:34 am

Istanbul is so high on my bucket list! Can’t wait to finally take a trip there and I’ll definitely use this guide when I go! As always, your photos are stunning ?

Suvarna Arora says

May 9, 2020 at 11:38 am

I have planned to visit Istanbul for this year but it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen. This guide will come handy for when I can visit.

May 9, 2020 at 11:43 am

Thank you so much Jen!!! You will love this city, it’s amazing!

May 9, 2020 at 11:44 am

I know, so many travel plans down the drain. Let’s hope 2021 will be better!

Caroline Muller says

May 9, 2020 at 12:28 pm

Super mooie rework van deze post! De edits zijn ook kei mooi!

May 9, 2020 at 12:33 pm

Ooooh merci schat!!! Ik zie momenteel scheel van het editen en schrijven :p

Urban Wanders says

May 9, 2020 at 1:00 pm

Would love to visit Istanbul one day! Hagia Sophia and Balat are high up on my Turkey bucket list 🙂

Meghan Emcee says

May 9, 2020 at 1:13 pm

I had no idea Instanbul was so beautiful! You definitely gave me a new place to add to my bucket list!

May 9, 2020 at 1:14 pm

So happy to hear that Meghan! 🙂

You would love it!!! And also add Maiden’s Tower to that list! Watching the sunset from there was amazing!

Alexandra Booze says

May 9, 2020 at 2:19 pm

You had me at lunch with a view! Istanbul has been on my list for years but I have yet to make it there. Your photos definitely show me that I need to ASAP!

May 9, 2020 at 2:22 pm

ahahahahahaha 😀 love that! I can guarantee you you will LOVE Istanbul!

Ophelie says

May 9, 2020 at 6:09 pm

I have visited Istanbul for NYE in 2015 and I loved it! I would love to go again as there are a few things of your list that I didn’t do. Thanks for sharing all the info! Beautifu photos!

May 9, 2020 at 6:17 pm

My pleasure Ophelie! Wow it must have been crazy for NYE!! I can only imagine all of the fireworks above the Bosphorus!

Zsuzsanna says

May 9, 2020 at 6:37 pm

Istanbul looks so beautiful, I visited it 4 years ago, but I really want to bring my husband there as well! Such a great guide! 🙂

May 9, 2020 at 7:13 pm

You should! The two of you would have such an amazing time!

Linnea says

May 10, 2020 at 1:56 am

This is such a great post! I was supposed to go to Istanbul in April, but had to postpone. How did you get those stunning pics of the lamps in the Grand Bazaar? I’ve heard you had to pay for the pictures. Maiden’s Tower is such a great tip for sunset too!

May 10, 2020 at 8:57 am

Hi Linnea! These photos were taken in August 2018 so back then they were less strict about it. But already a lot of stores had signs of no photography. Anyway if I would go back I would actually buy one of those lamps haha, still mad at myself that I didn’t then 😀

Bidisha says

May 10, 2020 at 10:14 am

I have always wanted to visit Istanbul and Cappadocia. These are the first one on my bucket list. Hope that I am able to visit very soon. This post is quite detailed and I am sure I will use this sometime soon in future.

May 10, 2020 at 10:18 am

I hope you get to go soon! 🙂

Zulfakar H Basri says

July 23, 2020 at 3:33 am

I have been to Istanbul April last yr.. 6days in Istanbul but have some places which not have enough time to cover such as Galata Tower, Hagia Irene & a few more.. The best part is we manage to go to Emirgan Park to see Tulips via hip hop boat. We also been to Besiktas football Stadium Tour for 2hrs to fullfill my sons wish.. I miss Istanbul & hope to go again a couple of yrs fr now..

ANUKRATI DOSI says

August 3, 2020 at 10:59 am

That was such an amazing post 🙂 This will be one of my reference notes whenever I visit Istanbul. 🙂

August 6, 2020 at 7:05 am

So happy to hear that!! 🙂

neredenasilgidilir says

June 11, 2022 at 9:47 am

That’s really good info. Thanks for sharing. and beautiful photos too! 🙂 Gezilecekyerler.com

Lucy Ivan says

June 21, 2023 at 9:03 pm

Thank you for this guide. This weekend will be my first visit to Istanbul and your advice will be very helpful for sure 😊

June 22, 2023 at 4:20 pm

Have the best time!!!!

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Section in Istanbul Do & See Istanbul is a vibrant city whose grandiose history is utterly fascinating. Take a stroll around the city and admire the amazing mosques, museums and the Great Bazaar, or even visit an authentic Turkish bath. Read more

Turkish Baths

Topkapi Palace

Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia)

Sultanahmet or The Blue Mosque

Maçka Park

Galata tower

Grand Bazaar

Eminönü Pier

Moda Coastal Park

Süleymaniye

SALT Beyoğlu

Sakip Sabanci Museum

Istanbul Museum of Modern Art

Hodjapasha Cultural Centre

Istanbul Travel Guide

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• istanbul-around
• Travel guide
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Uniquely among the world’s cities, Istanbul stands astride two continents, Europe and Asia. As if its spectacular geographical location were not enough, it can also boast of being the only city to have played capital to consecutive Christian and Islamic empires, a role that has shaped the region’s history for more than 2500 years and bequeathed to Istanbul a staggering wealth of attractions; these range from the masterpiece Byzantine church of Haghia Sophia (Aya Sofya) to the formidable city walls, and the domes and minarets of the Ottoman mosques and palaces that dominate the city skyline. Although no longer its capital, the city remains the vibrant economic, cultural and intellectual heart of modern Turkey, a bustling, go-ahead city where east really does meet west.

Arts, entertainment and festivals

The bosphorus cruise, city danger watch, i̇stanbul festivals, july/august, october/november, the land walls, the northwest quarter, the princes’ islands.

In conservative districts such as Fatih, bearded men sporting skullcaps and baggy shalwar -style trousers devoutly heed the call to prayer, while women wouldn’t dream of leaving the house with their heads uncovered. Yet across the water, the tidal wave of humanity sweeping down İstiklal Caddesi (Independence Street) includes young Turkish men and women in designer jeans and trainers who have rarely ever been to a mosque. In business districts such as Şişli, commuters arrive via the metro to work in high-rise office blocks, shop in state-of-the-art malls, and at weekends can be out clubbing until 6am.

Whether yours is the Istanbul of the Blue Mosque and the Topkapı Palace , or the Beyoğlu nightclubs and swish rooftop cocktail bars, the city takes time to get to know. Three to four days is enough to see the major historical sights in Sultanahmet and take a ferry trip on the Bosphorus . But plan on staying in Istanbul a week, or even two, if you want to fully explore the backstreets of the old city and the outlying suburbs and islands.

Brief history

In 2008, while digging the Yenikapı metro station, archeologists uncovered a Neolithic settlement dating back to circa 6500 BC. In popular tradition, however, the city was founded in the seventh century BC by Byzas , from Megara in Greece – hence the original name of Byzantium . Over the next thousand years, Byzantium became an important centre of trade and commerce, though not until the early fourth century AD did it reach the zenith of its wealth, power and prestige. For more than 350 years, it had been part of the Roman province of Asia. On Diocletian’s retirement in 305, Licinius and Constantine fought for control of the empire. Constantine finally defeated his rival on the hills above Chrysopolis (Üsküdar) and chose Byzantium as the site for the new capital of the Roman Empire in 330 BC. The hilly promontory, commanding the Bosphorus and easily defensible on its landward side, was a superb choice. It was also well placed for access to the troublesome frontiers of both Europe and the Persian Empire.

In 395, the division of the Roman Empire between the two sons of Theodosius I left what was now named Constantinople as capital of the eastern part of the empire. It rapidly developed its own distinctive character, dissociating itself from Rome and adopting the Greek language and Christianity . Long and successful government was interrupted briefly, in Justinian’s reign, by the Nika riots in 532. Half a century later, however, the dissolution of the Byzantine Empire had begun, as waves of Persians, Avars and Slavs attacked from the east and north. The empire was overrun by Arab invaders in the seventh and eighth centuries, and by Bulgars in the ninth and tenth. Only the city walls saved Constantinople, and even these could not keep out the Crusaders , who breached the sea walls in 1204 and sacked the city.

As the Byzantine Empire declined, the Ottoman Empire expanded. The Ottomans established first Bursa, then Edirne, as their capital, and Ottoman territory effectively surrounded the city long before it was taken. In 1453, Mehmet II (the Conqueror) – also known as Fatih Sultan Mehmet – besieged the city, which fell after seven weeks. Following the capture and subsequent pillage, Mehmet II began to rebuild the city, starting with a new palace and continuing with the Mosque of the Conqueror (Fatih Camii) and many smaller complexes. Tolerant of other religions, Mehmet actively encouraged Greek and Armenian Christians to take up residence in the city. His successor Beyazıt II continued this policy, settling Jewish refugees from Spain into the city in an attempt to improve the economy.

In the century following the Conquest, the victory was reinforced by the reign of Süleyman the Magnificent (1520–66), “the Lawgiver” and greatest of all Ottoman leaders. His attempted conquest of Europe was only thwarted at the gates of Vienna, and the wealth gained in his military conquests funded the work of Mimar Sinan , the finest Ottoman architect.

A century after the death of Süleyman, the empire began to show signs of decay. Territorial losses abroad combined with corruption at home, which insinuated its way into the very heart of the empire, Topkapı Palace itself. Newly crowned sultans emerged, often insane, from the institution known as the Cage, while others spent time in the harem rather than on the battlefield, consorting with women who increasingly became involved in grand-scale political intrigue.

As Ottoman territory was lost to the West, succeeding sultans became interested in Western institutional models. A short-lived parliament of 1876 was dissolved after a year by Abdülhamit II, but the forces of reform led to his deposition in 1909. The end of World War I saw Istanbul occupied by Allied troops as the victors procrastinated over how best to manage the rump of the once-great empire. After the War of Independence, Atatürk’s declaration of the Republic in 1923 and the creation of a new capital in Ankara effectively solved the problem.

The population of Greater Istanbul has increased twelvefold since the establishment of the Turkish Republic, and stands today at around 15 million. This rapid urban growth has left the city with more than its fair share of problems, from horrendous traffic congestion to housing and water shortages and rising crime rates. A UNESCO threat to revoke the city’s “World Heritage” status and place it on the “In Danger” list focused the minds of the government and local authorities on preserving the city’s glorious heritage, and Istanbul emerged from its year as a European Capital of Culture in 2010 with great credit.

Much else has been done to improve the infrastructure of one of the world’s leading cities. A government-backed housing scheme offers quality, affordable housing to low-income families in order, eventually, to replace the shanty-dwellings that have long ringed the suburbs. The European and Asian sides of the city were linked by a rail tunnel under the Bosphorus in late 2013, and the metro systems either side of the Golden Horn joined by a (controversial) bridge early in 2014. The Horn itself, once heavily polluted, has been cleaned up, and both anglers and cormorants can now be seen successfully fishing in its waters.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Turkey, created by local experts

4 days  / from 1050 USD

Sensational landscapes of Cappadocia

3 different modes of transportation to explore Cappadocia - by hot air balloon, on the back of a camel as well as on an ATV quad. Why choose if you can have it all? Four days filled with fun and adventure in the volcanic valleys around Cappadocia make an unforgettable trip.

5 days  / from 1100 USD

City & culture - Istanbul and Cappadocia

Explore two absolute highlights in Turkey - Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with its many landmarks. After a few days in the city, fly to Cappadocia and explore the surreal surroundings, either on day tours or from above in a hot air balloon.

9 days  / from 2500 USD

Magical Turkey

Visit Gobekli Tepe and Mount Nemrut in Southeastern Anatolia before proceeding to Cappadocia with its volcanic scenery. After a few days in the valleys, continue to Pamukkale and the ancient city of Ephesus. Your tour starts and ends in Istanbul.

Tailor-made trips for   Turkey

İstanbul hosts a decent range of annual cultural festivals , and matches other European cities for the breadth of its arts scene . State-subsidized theatre, opera and ballet make performances affordable for all, and there’s something going on almost every night at venues around the city. Music features heavily over the summer months, when international festivals draw musicians from all over the world.

Taking a boat trip up the Bosphorus, from the bustling quays of Eminönü to the quiet fishing village of Anadolu Kavağı, is a highlight of any visit to İstanbul. The long Bosphorus Cruise , run by the Şehir Hatları company ( t 444 1851, w sehirhatlari.com.tr ), leaves from the Boğaz Ferry Terminal just east of the Galata Bridge in Eminönü (daily: May–Oct 10.35am & 1.35pm, Nov–April 10.35am; one-way TL15, round-trip TL25).

In summer, especially at weekends, the queues to buy tickets can be very long, so allow at least half an hour, or, preferably, buy your ticket a day or two in advance. There are also often long queues to board, so late-comers end up sitting in the worst seats. The ferries are rather antiquated but comfortable enough, and you can buy snacks, sandwiches and drinks on board. The round trip, including a 2hr 30min lunch stop at Anadolu Kavağı, takes about seven hours.

The boat stops at Beşiktaş, Kanlıca (Asia), Yeniköy, Sariyer and Rumeli Kavağı (all Europe) and, finally, Anadolu Kavağı (Asia); the only stop on the return is Beşiktaş. You can leave the boat at any of the landings to explore the waterfront or hinterland, but most passengers do the return cruise. A shorter version is also available for TL10, departing from the same ferry terminal and covering the same distance with no stops (other than to pick up more passengers at Üsküdar). The tour takes around two hours, departing Eminönü at 2.30pm (April–Oct daily; Nov–March Sun & public holidays).

On Saturday nights only, between early June and mid-September, a night-time Mehtaplı cruise (TL20) makes an attractive alternative, with the great suspension bridges lit up like Christmas trees, and the lights of Asia and Europe twinkling on either side. The boat departs Eminönü at 7pm, reaching Anadolu Kavağı at 8.30pm, where it moors for dinner, before arriving back in Eminönü around midnight.

The private Turyol company also runs tours up the Bosphorus, as far as the Fatih bridge. Boats depart every hour on the hour on weekdays, more frequently at weekends, and the 1hr 30min round trip costs TL12.

Istanbul is undoubtedly far safer than most European or North American cities, and cases of mugging and assault against tourists are rare.

For the average visitor, pickpocketing is the main cause for concern: be particularly careful around Sirkeci station, the Eminönü waterfront, the Galata Bridge, and around Taksim (especially at night). Also avoid being on or around the Byzantine land walls at dusk/night. Be very careful, too, on public transport , particularly when it is crowded. If you feel anyone is harassing or attempting to pickpocket you, try calling out " imdat! "(meaning “help!”) and contact the tourist police.

Visitors should also be aware that political demonstrations sometimes turn into violent confrontations between police and protestors, as in the Gezi Park (part of Taksim Square) riots of 2013. Galatasary Meydanı, on busy İstiklal Caddesi, is the starting point for many protests.

İstanbul is home to Turkey’s best restaurants, including several that lavish time and skill on old Ottoman cuisine, and, thanks to the lengthy coastline, fish is a firm menu favourite. Snacks are ubiquitous, with kebab stands, pastry shops, fast-food outlets and cafés across the city catering to locals, workers and tourists alike. Restaurants around tourist honey-pot Sultanahmet tend to be of poorer quality, and are more expensive than elsewhere in the city.

The annual festival calendar is pretty full, especially between April and October. The most important modern art event is the International İstanbul Biennial , held on odd-numbered years. Organized by IKSV, the İstanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts ( w iksv.org ), it uses venues ranging from historic buildings like the Topkapı Palace to urban-chic warehouses.

International Film Festival

w film.iksv.org/en . Turkish, European and Hollywood movies premiere at İstanbul’s cinemas, mainly in Beyoğlu, plus the best of the non-English-speaking world’s releases from the previous year.

Tulip Festival

Week-long festival honouring the national flower, including concerts, arts events and competitions at different locations around the city. Over three million bulbs flower across the city, planted by the municipality.

w chilloutfest.com . Dance and electronica festival held in the incongruous surroundings of ultra-posh Kemer Golf and Country Club in Belgrade Forest.

Conquest Celebrations

w ibb.gov.tr . Week-long celebration of the Ottoman conquest of old Constantinople (May 29, 1453) – concerts by the Ottoman Mehter military band, fancy-dress processions and fireworks.

w millerfreshtival.com . Held in Maçka’s Kücükçiftlik Parkı, this festival mixes indie, dance and rock sounds, with both international and local acts and DJs.

International Puppet Festival

t 0212 232 0224. A celebration of Turkish Shadow Theatre, or karağoz – silent puppets perform behind a two-dimensional screen.

International Theatre Festival

w iksv.org . The year’s best Turkish plays (both local avant-garde and established theatre groups), and performances by visiting foreign theatres.

Efes Pilsen One Love

w icvb.org.tr/art-and-culture/ . Moderately alternative city-centre weekend-long festival, usually held at Santralistanbul, with plenty of DJ-led dance sets and performances from international bands such as Röyksopp and Klaxons, plus assorted home-grown acts.

The International Music Festival

w iksv.org . This hugely successful festival was launched in 1973 to celebrate Turkey’s fifty years of independence and brings top-notch orchestras and soloists from all over the world to perform in such atmospheric venues as the church of Aya Irene.

w sonispherefestivals.com . Two-day head-banging event for (mainly Turkish) heavy-metal lovers.

International Jazz Festival

w iksv.org . Two weeks of gigs and jamming sessions from world-class performers (with the definition of jazz stretched to include rock artists such as Lou Reed and Marianne Faithful).

Rumeli Hisarı Fortress Concerts

Nightly summer concerts within the walls of this Ottoman fortification overlooking the Bosphorus – a varied programme from classical to rock.

Rock N’ Coke

w rockncoke.com . Attracts major international acts – often a little past their prime – to the (defunct) Grand Prix track on the Asian side of the city.

İstanbul Arts Fair

w tuyap.com . A week-long fair selling the work of some fifty or so İstanbul galleries and visiting foreign artists – paintings, sculptures, pottery and fabrics.

International İstanbul Biennial

w iksv.org . Multimedia contemporary arts festival that usually runs mid-September to the first week in November. Held odd years: 2013, 2015, etc.

Akbank International Jazz Festival

w akbanksanat.com . Two-week festival concentrating on traditional jazz, with performers such as Dave Holland and Henry Threadgill. Events include film screenings, informal jamming sessions and drum workshops. Varied venues include the Byzantine church of Aya Irene and the Babylon Performance Centre in Beyoğlu.

Efes Pilsen Blues Festival

Two-day late-night blues festival – a showcase of new local talent and famous foreign bands.

Theodosius II’s land walls are among the most fascinating Byzantine remains in Turkey. Well-preserved remnants can still be found along the whole of their 6.5km length, though purists (and UNESCO) decry the fact that much of the recent work done on the walls looks like new-build rather than restoration.

The land walls were named after Theodosius II, and construction started in 413 AD. Stretching from the Marmara to Tekfur Saray, 2km further out than the previous walls of Constantine, they were built to accommodate the city’s expanding population. All citizens, regardless of rank, were required to help in the rebuilding following their collapse in the earthquake of 447 AD, in the light of the imminent threat of attack by Attila the Hun. The completed construction consisted of the original wall, 5m thick and 12m high, plus an outer wall of 2m by 8.5m, and a 20m-wide moat, all of which proved sufficient to repel Atilla’s assault.

Walking along the walls takes a little over two hours, though a full day allows time to enjoy it, and the adjacent sites, fully. Most of the outer wall and its 96 towers are still standing; access is restricted on some of the restored sections, though elsewhere there’s the chance to scramble along the crumbling edifice. As there are still plenty of run-down slums in this area, it’s best avoided at night (especially Topkapı).

The three principal sights can also be visited independently. The Yedikule fortifications , towards the southern terminus of the walls, are best reached by walking up from the suburban train station at Yedikule. The Kariye Museum , a former Byzantine church containing some of the best-preserved mosaics and frescoes in the world, just in from Edirnekapı and around 750m north of the Golden Horn, is easily accessed from the Ulubatlı M1 metro stop or the Pazartekke T1 tramstop, the Mihrimah Camii likewise – or take #28, #38E or #336E bus from Eminönü to Edirnekapı.

Kariye Museum

Formerly the church of St Saviour in Chora, the Kariye Museum (Kariye Müzesi) is decorated with a superbly preserved series of frescoes and mosaics portraying the life and miracles of Christ. Arguably the most evocative of all the city’s Byzantine treasures, it’s thought to have been built in the early twelfth century on the site of a much older church far from the centre: hence “in Chora”, meaning “in the country”. Between 1316 and 1321, the statesman and scholar Theodore Metochites rebuilt the central dome and added the narthexes and mortuary chapel.

The mosaics

Inside the church, the most prominent of the mosaics is that of Christ Pantocrator , bearing the inscription “Jesus Christ, the Land of the Living”. Opposite is a depiction of the Virgin and angels, with the inscription “Mother of God, the Dwelling Place of the Uncontainable”. The third in the series, located in the inner narthex, shows Metochites offering a model of the building to a seated Christ. Saints Peter and Paul are portrayed on either side of the door leading to the nave, and to the right of the door are Christ with his Mother and two benefactors, Isaac (who built the original church), and the figure of a nun.

The two domes of the inner narthex hold medallions of Christ Pantocrator and the Virgin and Child, while in the fluting of the domes there’s a series of notable figures – starting with Adam – from the Genealogy of Christ . The Cycle of the Blessed Virgin is located in the first three bays of the inner narthex. Episodes depicted here include the first seven steps of the Virgin; the Virgin caressed by her parents, with two beautiful peacocks in the background; the Virgin presented as an attendant at the temple, the Virgin receiving a skein of purple wool, as proof of her royal blood; Joseph taking the Virgin to his house, in which is also depicted one of Joseph’s sons by his first wife; and Joseph returning from a trip to find his wife pregnant.

The next cycle, found in the arched apertures of the outer narthex, depicts the Infancy of Christ . The mosaics can be followed clockwise, starting with Joseph dreaming, the Virgin and two companions, and the journey to Bethlehem. Apart from well-known scenes such as the Journey of the Magi and the Nativity, there are depictions in the seventh bay of the Flight into Egypt. In the sixth bay is the Slaughter of the Innocents, complete with babies impaled on spikes.

The Cycle of Christ’s Ministry fills the vaults of the outer narthex and parts of the south bay of the inner narthex. It includes wonderful scenes of the Temptation of Christ, with dramatic dialogue (Matthew 4: 3–10) that could almost be in speech bubbles, beginning “Devil: If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. Christ: It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”

The frescoes

The main frescoes in the nave of St Saviour echo the mosaics, featuring the death of the Virgin over the door and, to the right, a depiction of Christ. The best known of all the works in the church, however, are the frescoes in the funerary chapel to the south of the nave.

The most spectacular of these is the Resurrection , also known as the Harrowing of Hell. It depicts Christ trampling the gates of Hell underfoot, and forcibly dragging Adam and Eve from their tombs. A black Satan lies among the broken fetters at his feet, bound at the ankles, wrists and neck. To the left, animated onlookers include John the Baptist, David and Solomon, while to the right Abel is standing in his mother’s tomb; behind him is another group of the righteous.

Other frescoes in the chapel, in the vault of the east bay, depict the Second Coming , while in the east half of the domical vault Christ sits in judgement.

With such a youthful population, a booming economy and relentless Westernization, it is not surprising that İstanbul is establishing a major reputation for clubbing . The best bars and clubs are in Beyoğlu, Taksim, Ortaköy and the richer Bosphorus suburbs such as Kadıköy. For a more traditional night out, head to a meyhane (tavern), where a fasil band might accompany your food and bottle of rakı. Alternatively, try a Türkü bar , where you can drink and listen to the plaintive sounds of Anatolian folk music. Both meyhanes and Türkü bars are enjoying something of a revival of late, but if you want something more familiar there are countless café-bars and modern nightclubs as well.

One of the least visited but most fascinating areas of the old city, the northwest quarter is bounded on the west by the major thoroughfare of Fevzi Paşa Caddesi, to the north by the land walls of Theodosius, to the east by the Golden Horn, and on the south by traffic-choked Atatürk Bulvarı. Once home to a cosmopolitan population of Muslims, Christians and Jews, it’s now a devoutly Muslim area, particularly in the district of Fatih , where you’ll notice many women in chadors and bearded men in şalvar pants, long baggy shirts and skullcaps (dress appropriately).

The most notable sights are a former Byzantine church, now the Zeyrek Camii ; two notable Ottoman mosques, the Fatih and Yavuz Selim ; the magnificent Byzantine mosaics in the Fethiye Museum , the spiritual centre of the Orthodox Christian world; the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate ; and the curious cast-iron church of St Stephen of the Bulgars . A spiritual centre of a different order awaits a couple of kilometres up the Golden Horn from the Patriarchate, the Eyüp area, sacred to Muslims worldwide as it boasts the tomb of Eyüp Ensari, standard-bearer of the Prophet Mohammed.

With their charming waterfront villages, fin-de-siècle architecture, wooded hills and rocky coves, the romantic Princes’ Islands have always been a favourite retreat from the mainland. Set in the Sea of Marmara between 15km and 30km southeast of the city, the islands are easily accessible by ferry from İstanbul, and can get very crowded in summer, especially at weekends. Cars are banned on the islands, so transport is either by foot, phaeton (horse-drawn carriage), hired bike or donkey. Their proximity to the city makes them an easy, enjoyable and very cheap day-trip, but accommodation is surprisingly expensive, and, on summer weekends, hard to come by.

The copper mines of Chalkitis ( Heybeliada ), famed in antiquity, are long since exhausted, but they remain visible near Çam Limanı. During the Byzantine era, numerous convents and monasteries were built on the islands, which soon became luxurious prisons for banished emperors, empresses and princes (often after they had been blinded). The islands were neglected by the conquering Ottoman Turks and became a place of refuge for Greek, Armenian and Jewish communities.

In 1846 a ferry service was established and the islands grew popular with Pera’s wealthy merchants and bankers, becoming İstanbul’s favourite summer resort after the establishment of the Republic in 1923. Mosques began to appear in the villages, and hotels and apartment buildings soon followed. A Turkish naval college was established on Heybeliada and Atatürk’s private yacht was moored here as a training ship.

Sivriada , uninhabited and unvisitable, gained public notoriety in 1911 when all the stray dogs in İstanbul were rounded up, shipped out there and left to starve, while Yassıada is best known as a prison island, used for the detention of political prisoners.

Shopping in İstanbul is an experience. Whether or not it’s a pleasant one depends on your ability to ignore the hustlers when you’re not in the mood, and to bargain hard when you are. Don’t miss the Grand Bazaar , a hive of over four thousand little shops. Equally interesting shopping districts scattered around the city include İstiklal Caddesi for clothes, Nişantaşı for upmarket international fashion; and the Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) and its environs for spices and sweets. Out of the centre, shopping malls have taken off in a big way, good for homeware and clothes. The covered bazaar is credit-card friendly, as are all shops except the smallest of grocers ( bakals ) or kiosks.

The mixed dockland area of Tophane is named after the Imperial Armoury – now housing a university – that churned out cannonballs for the Ottoman war machine. It’s dotted with venerable Ottoman buildings, most notably the Kılıç Paşa Camii , dating from 1780, and the more recent Nusretiye Camii (1822), both recently restored. It’s also well known for its large congregation of nargile (water-pipe) cafés.

İstanbul Modern

Turkey’s leading contemporary arts gallery, İstanbul Modern , is housed in a revamped warehouse on the edge of the Bosphorus, just in front of the Nusretiye Camii. The interior is all big, blank white walls and exposed ventilation pipes, with picture windows giving views across the Bosphorus to the Topkapı Palace. The collection includes the best of modern Turkish art, as well as some intriguing video installations from foreign artists. There’s a reference library, a cinema showing arts and independent movies, and a trendy café with a terrace overlooking the Bosphorus.

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• Asian İstanbul
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5 romantic date spots in istanbul to visit this spring.

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The Galata Tower, seen from the rooftops in Beyoglu, with the Blue Mosque in the background, a ... [+] historic Genovese tower towering over the Istanbul skyline is in the Galata neighbourhood in Beyoglu district.

Destinations like Paris and Rome tend to get all the credit when it comes to romance — but Istanbul should not be overlooked as a love-fueled city. The historical charm and confluence of cultures give Istanbul a mysterious allure that lends itself incredibly well to date night.

If you have a trip to Istanbul with your partner on the horizon, you’ll want to consider adding the following addresses to your itinerary. These hotels, restaurants, bars, and spas will make the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable date that’s plenty with amorous appeal:

Nardis Jazz Club

There’s nothing quite like a night in an intimate jazz bar to stir up a little romance—and Nardis is exactly what you’d conjure up in your mind when thinking of an ideal spot to get cozy and enjoy great local music. The compact jazz club has a rotating calendar of local and visiting jazz musicians. Note that the seating is first come, first served, so you’ll want to arrive in advance if you want a spot by the stage.

Viktor Levi Şarap Evi

Did you know that Turkey is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world? While you’re in Istanbul you’ll want to take advantage of your proximity to delicious old-world wine and Viktor Levi Şarap Evi on the Asian side is a great spot for getting to know Turkish wine. The stunning dining space is also worth checking out—be sure to book a table on the back patio for a cozy but elegant experience.

Tuğra Restaurant in Çirağan Palace Kempinski

Çirağan Palace Kempinski is arguably the most romantic hotel in Istanbul—but its on-property Tuğra Restaurant is arguably the most romantic place in Istanbul. You’re likely to see engagements at this high-end restaurant on any night and it’s easy to see why. The stunning spot sits right on the Bosphorus and offers stunning views of the strait—especially at sunset. What’s more, the Michelin-recommended restaurant offers a unique and decadent take on Turkish cuisine that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

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There’s a local myth in Istanbul that you’ll wind up marrying the person you climb the Galata Tower with if it's both of your first time doing so—which makes this former watchtower an incredibly special spot for loved-up couples to visit while in town. It also happens to have spectacular views from the top, if you need another reason to climb the 146 steps to the top (don’t worry—there’s also an elevator). Note that the tower is currently closed for construction but should be opening back up by the late spring.

Navitas Spa Cistern

There’s something inherently romantic about going to the spa together—so imagine the levels of romance baked into a private spa experience in a thousand-year-old underground cistern. The Navitas Spa Cistern allows you and your partner to bathe in the ancient underground chamber, an unforgettable experience that’s made even better if you pair it with a couple’s massage.

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The Ultimate Guide to Exploring 10 Historic Churches 2024 – Sacred Spaces and Their Stories

Posted: February 21, 2024 | Last updated: February 21, 2024

Exploring historic churches is not just a journey through religious architecture; it’s an exploration of history, art, and spirituality. These sacred spaces, ranging from grand cathedrals to intimate chapels, offer a glimpse into their times’ cultural and spiritual life. This guide will take you through 10 of the world’s most historic and awe-inspiring churches, revealing their stories and the secrets they hold.

1. Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris, France

Experience the grandeur of Gothic architecture at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Situated on the Île de la Cité, this historical marvel boasts flying buttresses, gargoyles, and remarkable rose windows. Inside, the cathedral is just as impressive, with its high vaulted ceilings and beautiful stained glass. Don’t miss the Treasury for its sacred relics and the opportunity to climb the towers, where you can enjoy a stunning view of the Seine and the Parisian skyline. Visit in the evening to catch the magnificent light show or attend an organ concert for an immersive experience.

Insider’s Tip: Attend an evening concert to experience the cathedral’s acoustics.

When To Travel: Spring or fall for fewer crowds.

How To Get There: Easily accessible via the Cité or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame metro stations.

2. St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, Italy

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to witness the heart of the Catholic world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Inside, you’ll find stunning works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. The climb to the top of the dome offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome and the Vatican gardens. The scale of the basilica is awe-inspiring, from its imposing facade to the vastness of its interior. Remember to dress modestly as a sign of respect when visiting this sacred site.

Insider’s Tip: Dress conservatively as a sign of respect for this sacred site.

When To Travel: Visit in the off-season to avoid long lines.

How To Get There: Reachable by metro (Ottaviano-S. Pietro-Musei Vaticani station).

3. Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain

The Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s renowned unfinished masterpiece, uniquely explores architectural innovation in Barcelona. The church’s facades, each depicting different biblical themes, are a testament to Gaudí’s creative genius. The stained-glass windows create a symphony of light that illuminates the intricate columns and ceilings. Ascend the towers for a closer look at the architectural details and a panoramic view of the city. The ongoing construction, part of the church’s charm, speaks to the evolving nature of this iconic structure.

Insider’s Tip: Book tickets online in advance to skip the long queues.

When To Travel: Early spring or late fall for a more peaceful visit.

How To Get There: Accessible via the Sagrada Família metro station.

4. Westminster Abbey, London, England

Explore the rich history of England at Westminster Abbey in London. This Gothic church is a place of worship and a significant site for royal ceremonies and burials. The abbey houses tombs of monarchs, poets, and scientists, each with their own story. The Poets’ Corner is particularly noteworthy, resting place of figures like Shakespeare and Dickens. Try to attend Evensong for a traditional Anglican service accompanied by the renowned choir, a truly serene experience.

Insider’s Tip: Attend the Evensong service for a spiritual and musical experience.

When To Travel: Weekday mornings are typically less crowded.

How To Get There: A short walk from Westminster or St. James’s Park tube stations.

5. St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow, Russia

St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, with its colorful, onion-domed towers, symbolizes Russia’s architectural creativity. Each dome of this iconic cathedral represents a different chapel, with vibrant frescoes and ornate altars. The interior is a maze of narrow corridors and small chapels, each uniquely decorated. Visit at night when the cathedral is illuminated to fully appreciate its beauty and the intricate details of its design.

Insider’s Tip: Visit at night when the cathedral is beautifully illuminated.

When To Travel: Late spring or early summer for pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Located in Red Square, it’s easily accessible on foot from many parts of central Moscow.

6. Chartres Cathedral, Chartres, France

Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Chartres Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and stained-glass windows. The cathedral’s labyrinth on the floor is a highlight, offering a meditative journey for visitors. The blue Chartres stained glass, especially in the famous Rose Window, is renowned for its vibrancy and craftsmanship. The cathedral also hosts light shows illuminating its exterior, showcasing its spectacular architectural details.

Insider’s Tip: Try to visit on a sunny day when the stained glass truly comes to life.

When To Travel: Spring or early fall to avoid the tourist peak season.

How To Get There: About an hour by train from Paris.

7. Duomo di Milano, Milan, Italy

Discover the Duomo di Milano, an iconic symbol of Milan and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Its elaborate façade, adorned with numerous statues and spires, is an architectural marvel. The interior is equally impressive, with high ceilings and stained-glass windows depicting various biblical stories. Don’t miss the chance to visit the rooftop terraces, where you can walk among the spires and enjoy a unique view of Milan’s cityscape.

Insider’s Tip: The rooftop is especially impressive at sunset.

When To Travel: Visit in the shoulder season to avoid crowds.

How To Get There: It’s located in the city center and accessible by metro (Duomo station).

8. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey

Explore the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, a magnificent structure that has stood as a church, a mosque, and now a museum. This architectural marvel boasts a massive dome, stunning mosaics, and Islamic calligraphy. Its upper galleries provide a closer view of the intricate mosaics and offer a unique perspective of the interior and the sprawling city outside. The Hagia Sophia is a testament to Istanbul’s diverse religious history and architectural innovation.

Insider’s Tip: Look for the Viking graffiti on the upper gallery marble balustrades.

When To Travel: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

How To Get There: Situated in Sultanahmet, it’s easily accessible by tram.

9. Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Florence, Italy

Visit the Florence Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece in the heart of the city. Known for its striking red dome designed by Brunelleschi, the cathedral stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Renaissance. The exterior, with its intricate marble panels, is as impressive as the vast interior. Climbing the dome is a highlight, offering stunning views of Florence and a close-up look at the frescoes inside the dome.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the adjacent Baptistery to see the famous bronze doors.

When To Travel: Early spring or late fall to avoid the heavy tourist crowds.

How To Get There: Located in the heart of Florence, it’s best explored on foot.

10. Cologne Cathedral, Cologne, Germany

Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of Cologne Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s twin spires dominate Cologne’s skyline, and its interior houses an impressive collection of art, including the Shrine of the Three Kings. The stained-glass windows, particularly the modern ones in the south transept, are notable for their intricate designs and vivid colors. Climbing the south tower rewards you with a panoramic view of Cologne and the Rhine River.

Insider’s Tip: Climb the south tower for a breathtaking view of the city and the Rhine.

When To Travel: Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.

How To Get There: Conveniently located near the main train station in Cologne.

The Bottom Line

Your journey through these historic churches is more than just a tour of religious sites; it explores history, culture, and art. Each church offers a unique window into the past, from the Gothic spires of Cologne to the Byzantine domes of Hagia Sophia. As you wander these sacred spaces, take a moment to appreciate the silence, the beauty, and the stories they hold. Every stone, window, and painting in these churches has a tale to tell, waiting for you to discover.

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The post The Ultimate Guide to Exploring 10 Historic Churches – Sacred Spaces and Their Stories republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Korkusung.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Istanbul Mayor Headed for Re-election, in Blow to Erdogan’s Party

The opposition chalked up gains against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling party in local elections across Turkey amid voter anger about the economy.

By Ben Hubbard and Safak Timur

Ben Hubbard and Safak Timur attended campaign rallies for each candidate and interviewed voters and experts about the race and its stakes.

The mayor of Istanbul was headed for a stinging re-election victory against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his ruling party early Monday, beating back a broad campaign by the president and his government and keeping Turkey’s largest city and economic powerhouse in opposition hands.

The strong showing by Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu put him on track for his third win against Mr. Erdogan’s Justice and Development Party, solidifying his status as a star in the political opposition. Many Turks see Mr. Imamoglu as a potential contender for the presidency.

Partial returns showed Mr. Imamoglu defeating the ruling party’s candidate, Murat Kurum, by a substantial margin. With 96 percent of ballot boxes counted, Mr. Imamoglu had won 50 percent, with Mr. Kurum getting 40 percent, according to preliminary results from the state-run Anadolu news agency.

The opposition was also on the verge of significant gains in other local elections across Turkey. Preliminary vote counts on Monday kept it in power in four of the country’s largest cities — Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and Antalya — and gave it control of a fifth, Bursa, and a number of smaller cities.

By early Monday, more than than 90 percent of ballot boxes had been counted in most districts. Official results are expected from the Supreme Election Council in the coming days.

“Istanbul has given its message, Istanbul has finished this job,” Mr. Imamoglu told supporters gathered outside city hall early Monday. “Tomorrow morning we will turn a new page.”

Mr. Erdogan stopped short of conceding defeat in any specific races while addressing his own supporters outside his party’s headquarters in Ankara, the capital, but acknowledged that his party had not done well.

“The ballot boxes are closed, the nation has had its final say,” he said. “We will examine the reasons for this setback.”

While Turks voted for mayors and other municipal officials across Turkey on Sunday, much of the focus was on Istanbul, given its size and its political and economic importance.

“This election will determine the nature of the political race in Turkey for the years to come,” said Sinan Ulgen, the director of Edam, an Istanbul-based research organization.

A victory for Mr. Imamoglu could reinvigorate the anti-Erdogan opposition and propel the mayor toward the next presidential election, expected in 2028, when he could face off against Mr. Erdogan.

The vote came amid a prolonged cost-of-living crisis, during which the value of Turkey’s currency has sunk and many people have come to feel poorer. It also followed presidential and parliamentary elections in May that granted Mr. Erdogan another term , dashing the hopes of a coalition of opposition parties that had joined forces to try to unseat him.

In that election, Mr. Erdogan secured victory despite widespread voter anger at inflation that had soared to more than 80 percent and criticism that his government had failed to swiftly respond to powerful earthquakes that killed more than 53,000 people in southern Turkey in February 2023.

The opposition’s loss battered its morale and its coalition fell apart. But many opposition voters now see Mr. Imamoglu as uniquely capable of winning against Mr. Erdogan’s party, so much so that they predict he could be Turkey’s next president.

Home to some 16 million people and straddling the Bosporus between Europe and Asia, Istanbul generates much of Turkey’s economic output. The metropolitan municipality has about 90,000 employees, many working for municipal companies whose directors the mayor nominates. All of that gives the mayor and his allies significant opportunities to reward supporters with municipal jobs and contracts.

The race was also personal.

Mr. Erdogan, 70, grew up in Istanbul, where his father worked as a ferryboat captain. His political career leaped forward when he won an upset victory to become the city’s mayor from 1994 to 1998. Many residents hailed him for practical governance that focused on quality-of-life issues in the ancient city: cleaning up polluted streets and waterways and expanding running water and sewer networks.

While he ascended to serve as prime minister and president, jobs technically based in Ankara, the capital, Mr. Erdogan often speaks of his love for Istanbul, whose rich history, cosmopolitan elite and booming tourist sector have long made it the jewel of Turkey.

Mr. Erdogan’s party maintained control of the city for most of the 25 years after he was elected there.

That is why it was such a blow to Mr. Erdogan’s party when Mr. Imamoglu, 52, defeated its candidate in 2019. Mr. Erdogan’s party alleged electoral irregularities, and Turkey’s election board ordered a rerun.

Mr. Imamoglu won that , too, by an even greater margin.

To try to take the city back, Mr. Erdogan threw his weight behind Mr. Kurum, a former urban and environment minister in the Erdogan government and a current lawmaker in his party.

Mr. Kurum, 47, marketed himself as a hands-on technocrat who would expand services and transform Istanbul’s neighborhoods to protect residents from earthquakes, a major concern in a city that seismologists warn could be hi t by a big one soon that could potentially damage hundreds of thousands of structures.

At a large campaign rally last Sunday, Mr. Erdogan delivered a long speech in which he accused Mr. Imamoglu of using the city to seek higher office.

“Istanbul is at a crossroads,” he said. “On one hand, there are those who only say ‘me.’ On the other, there are those who say ‘only Istanbul.’”

A number of people who had come for the rally spoke at length of their love for Mr. Erdogan and how he has run the country, without mentioning Mr. Kurum.

“We are here to support Erdogan,” said Erkan Kirici, 49, a laborer in a clothing factory. “He develops our country, and we want the country to move forward.”

At a separate, smaller rally days later, Mr. Imamoglu addressed people in the street from atop his campaign bus, taking about wastewater disposal, parking, free transit cards and milk for low-income families.

He characterized himself as an underdog, noting that not only Mr. Erdogan but also several ministers in his government had appeared in Istanbul to support Mr. Kurum.

“They allegedly want to take Istanbul back,” he said. “From whom? From the nation itself! The subways done by you or the subways done by me — they are all property of the nation. They think the positions, the posts they’ve been elected to, are their own property.”

In the crowd, Suna Hisman, 40, and her sister cheered at the mayor’s quips and waved Turkish flags.

“We love him,” she said. “We support him. And God willing he will be our president.”

Turkey’s next national election is expected at the end of Mr. Erdogan’s mandate in 2028, but some Turks expect that he will seek to remain in power longer. He is currently in the second of the two presidential terms allowed by the Constitution. But a parliamentary call for early elections could allow him to run for another term, or he could seek to change the Constitution.

Mr. Erdogan’s critics accuse him of eroding Turkey’s democracy by using the government to silence dissidents, co-opt the judiciary and cow the news media.

Mr. Erdogan and his supporters reject the idea that he is an aspiring autocrat, pointing to his and his party’s long record of success at the polls.

Gulsin Harman contributed reporting.

Ben Hubbard is the Istanbul bureau chief, covering Turkey and the surrounding region. More about Ben Hubbard