There are such a lot of issues to do in Istanbul, Turkey to maintain even probably the most fidgety particular person occupied. There’s one factor it’s worthwhile to know, nonetheless: while you’re sightseeing in Istanbul, you’ll be able to neglect about vogue. Severely, you want comfy sneakers since you’re going to need to hold exploring!
Your toes will throb on the finish of the day, however belief me, it’s oh-so price it. I’ve by no means visited a metropolis that’s enthralled me fairly as a lot as Istanbul and even now, after so a few years, I nonetheless discover new locations to see.
There’s no metropolis on earth fairly like Istanbul; with a historical past that dates again over 2500 years, you’ll be able to anticipate finding loads of outdated buildings and ruins right here, however there’s a lot extra to this metropolis than its previous. Istanbul captivates me each single time, and I’ve visited on so many events now, I’ve misplaced depend.
After all, this can be a enormous metropolis – it’s huge – so that you’ll must know the perfect locations to go to in Istanbul forward of your journey so that you don’t find yourself losing your time on issues that aren’t to your style. Inside this publish, I’ll share all my secrets and techniques, so you can begin planning your time.
Greatest Issues To Do in Istanbul
I’ve stayed in Istanbul for greater than a month at a time on a number of journeys to Turkey, and I am going again with my husband each winter for a minimum of a couple of weeks. I’m fortunate that he has household there and, being Turkish, he is aware of the realm inside out and may present me the perfect spots.
The issue with not understanding the very first thing about Istanbul is that you could simply get misplaced and miss the perfect bits. Istanbul’s sights are plentiful, however they can be fairly a distance away from one another. That’s why this checklist of issues to do in Istanbul will are available very helpful when serving to you place collectively an itinerary.
1. Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque is unquestionably one of the crucial stunning mosques you’ll ever see in your life, and it’s one of many high free issues to do in Istanbul. I used to be blown away by the inside design, however the outdoors is simply as breathtaking. It’s price mentioning that this can be a functioning mosque so bear in mind that it’s going to shut (and reopen) at sure instances of the day for prayers.
The surroundings round Blue Mosque is extraordinarily photographic, however I most get pleasure from merely strolling round and absorbing the serene environment; it’s fairly uncommon to really feel that manner in such a giant metropolis. After all, this is among the hottest locations to go to in Istanbul, so a guided tour will enable you perceive extra. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
2. Dolmabahçe Palace
Some of the jaw-dropping sights in Istanbul is Dolmabahçe Palace – a spot so opulent it’s going to take you a second to get your head round it. You’ll be able to’t take pictures inside, which bothered me slightly at first as a result of I’m all about taking images, nonetheless, I used to be so misplaced in what I used to be seeing, I fully forgot about my digicam.
This was the previous dwelling of Atatürk, the founding father of the Turkish Republic, however it was initially inbuilt 1843 as a palace for the Ottoman sultans. The eye to element is mind-blowing, and it’s no shock this is among the high locations to go to in Istanbul.
Deal with: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
3. Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace was the primary headquarters of the Ottoman Empire, and it’s top-of-the-line issues to see in Istanbul. Constructed in 1465, it’s one of the crucial standard issues to see in Istanbul. I’d suggest you go as early within the morning as you’ll be able to because the queues construct up fairly rapidly and in my expertise, they don’t transfer too quick.
Nevertheless, when you’re in, you’ll be glad you waited. The gardens are nearly as beautiful as the inside, however with gold plated actually all the things, and superb views over the Bosphorus, this can be a place that may transport you again in time. You possibly can additionally take into account a guided tour. I discovered this one actually helpful for understanding extra about what I used to be seeing. Click on right here for particulars.
Deal with: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
4. Bosphorus Sundown Cruise
For me, one of many coolest issues to do in Istanbul is take a Bosphorus sundown cruise. I’ve been fortunate sufficient to see dolphins a few instances and I hope you’ll be too! You’ll be able to select a cruise with dinner or simply persist with sightseeing, however trying out the town from the water is among the greatest issues to do in Istanbul at night time.
You’ll discover plenty of totally different corporations providing cruises, however pre-booking takes the effort away. Should you go all the way down to Karaköy ferry terminal or Eminönü you’ll see plenty of distributors promoting journeys however selecting the best one might be irritating while you’re placed on the spot they usually’re all attempting to get your consideration at you without delay. Click on right here for extra data and to e book.
Deal with: Most excursions go away from Karaköy ferry terminal: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Genelev, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
5. Purchasing at Cevahir AVM
Should you’re in search of issues to do in Istanbul for youths, particularly on a wet day, I’d suggest heading to Cevahir AVM. This can be a enormous shopping center with shops, eating places, cafes, and an enormous Enjoyable Lab, which is actually a large amusement heart with rides and video games for youngsters. There’s additionally a cinema for these trying to do one thing indoors.
Should you go to in December, you’ll see the complete mall adorned for New Yr, with an enormous tree (in Turkey, “Christmas” timber are used at New Yr as an alternative), and loads of enjoyable actions for the complete household. It’s an effective way to beat a wet or chilly day.
Deal with: 19 Mayıs, Büyükdere Cd. No:22, 34360 Şişli/İstanbul
6. Hagia Sophia
Some of the standard locations to go to in Istanbul is Hagia Sophia. Previously a mosque, then a church, then a museum, and now a mosque once more, this is among the most stunning and oldest buildings in Istanbul, courting again to 537 AD. Hagia Sophia sits instantly reverse the Blue Mosque and the sq. is colorfully adorned with flowers all 12 months spherical.
It’s free to enter Hagia Sophia, nonetheless, contributions are welcomed. That is one other functioning mosque, so bear in mind that it’s going to shut for a short while throughout prayer. A guided tour is at all times really useful that will help you be taught extra. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
7. Basilica Cistern
Basilica Cistern shocked me in all the perfect methods attainable. This is among the high vacationer sights in Istanbul, however it’s deep underground, so until you recognize about it, it may be straightforward to overlook. Don’t let that occur – that is one in all my favourite issues to do round Istanbul.
Constructed within the 12 months 532, it was initially designed to make sure water provide to Topkapı Palace, however it’s a lot greater than that. The pillars are so intricately carved, and you may even see outdated statues of Medusa. What stood out for me was the environment; possibly it was as a result of I used to be underground, however I felt like I used to be surrounded by whispers of the previous.
Queues right here can get fairly lengthy, so a skip-the-queue tour is a superb alternative. Click on right here for extra data.
Deal with: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul
8. Gulhane Park
It’d shock you to be taught that there are various open, inexperienced areas in Istanbul, however Gulhane Park is among the greatest and might be discovered instantly behind Topkapı Palace. I feel this is among the greatest issues to do in Istanbul for households as a result of the vast open areas are perfect for kids to run free and let off some steam.
The primary time I visited right here with my husband it had been snowing slightly, and it felt identical to Narnia. It’s such a phenomenal area with benches, statues, and many wildlife if you happen to look intently. There’s additionally a restaurant to purchase tea, espresso, gentle drinks, and ice cream.
Once you’re planning your itinerary for Istanbul, I’d extremely suggest a stroll round right here, for a break from the hustle and bustle of Sultanahmet if nothing else.
Deal with: Cankurtaran, Kennedy Cad., 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
9. Bosphorus Ferry from Europe to Asia
There are many enjoyable issues to do in Istanbul, however I really like taking the ferry from the European facet over to the Asian facet, and feeding the seagulls as I am going. That is truly simply public transport, as folks go from one facet to the opposite for work and basic life, however it’s a terrific expertise, and the views are superb.
Purchase a simit (bagel) from the cafe downstairs and throw items into the air because the ferry travels; the grasping seagulls will thanks and arrive of their droves. The crossing takes round quarter-hour and you may sit outdoors, however positively take a coat (even if you happen to suppose it’s heat) – these Bosphorus winds might be depraved.
Deal with: Ferries go away from Eminönü, Beşiktaş, and Karaköy. Eminönü is the busiest port: Hobyar, Reşadiye Cd. No:8, 34112 Fatih/İstanbul
10. Grand Bazaar
Probably the greatest locations to go to in Istanbul for conventional buying is the Grand Bazaar. Constructed again in 1455, this is among the oldest and largest coated markets on the planet. It’s a maze of retailers that calls for a minimum of a few hours to navigate however the environment is a lot enjoyable.
That is excessive on my checklist of locations to go to in Istanbul each time as a result of I at all times handle to seize some bargains. Nevertheless, if you happen to’re visiting with kids, be sure to maintain their palms tightly as this place can get extraordinarily busy, and it’s straightforward to get caught up within the crowds.
Deal with: Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul
11. Egyptian Spice Bazaar
Should you’re looking out for some spices to take again dwelling, you should go to the Egyptian Spice Bazaar in Eminönü. That is one other coated market, though a lot smaller than the Grand Bazaar and simpler to navigate. It’s a brilliant colourful place and is a great spot for pictures.
Right here, you should buy all method of spices, Turkish delight, nuts, and different treats. It ought to positively be in your checklist of issues to see in Istanbul, though it shouldn’t take greater than an hour to discover.
Deal with: Rüstem Paşa, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul
12. Eat Fish at Nevizade
A go to to Nevizade is among the high issues to do in Istanbul for {couples}, and it’s a vibrant spot to go to irrespective of the time of day or night time. There are lots of beer locations right here, however it’s most well-known for its lengthy line of seafood eating places, all serving the freshest catch. A meal with some raki on the facet is a conventional factor to do.
Whilst you’re consuming, you’ll discover musicians transferring across the road serenading prepared prospects. It may be fairly loud, however it’s a very satisfying expertise, and though I’m not the most important seafood fan, I notably loved my meal at Ney’le Mey’le.
Deal with: Hüseyinağa, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
13. Go to Ortaköy
Proper by the large Bosphorus Bridge, you’ll discover the Ortaköy district – a enjoyable spot that’s dwelling to meals and merriment all 12 months spherical. You can even go to the gorgeous Ortaköy mosque, which dates again to 1854. Should you’ve ever seen any pictures of Istanbul, you’ve most certainly seen one with the bridge and the mosque collectively.
A go to to Ortaköy is among the high issues to do in Istanbul, and I at all times get pleasure from grabbing a kumpir (jacket potato) from one of many out of doors stalls. You’ll be able to pile it excessive with as many toppings as you suppose you’ll be able to handle and it’s a well-known dish from this a part of the town. Oh, and waffles! Don’t neglect the waffles.
Deal with: Ortaköy, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
14. Galata Tower
I couldn’t presumably miss Galata Tower off of this checklist. This enormous tower has appeared over the town for hundreds of years and is now a museum with a small restaurant on the high. The views are like nothing you’ve ever seen earlier than and provide spectacular sights proper over to the Asian facet and past.
Should you’re afraid of heights, this won’t be in your checklist of issues to do in Istanbul, however you’ll be able to nonetheless go to and take images from floor degree. Once you’re strolling across the high of the tower, it will possibly get crowded, and also you’ll must stroll in a single file. Should you’re touring with kids, make sure to hold a decent maintain of them.
Deal with: Bereketzade, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul. You can even take a guided tour. Click on right here for particulars.
15. Süleymaniye Mosque
You’ll want some comfy strolling sneakers to stroll up the beautiful huge hill to Süleymaniye Mosque however it’s greater than definitely worth the effort. The mosque advanced itself is just beautiful in structure, and it’s such a peaceable and serene space. The views over the Golden Horn are breathtaking.
This is among the greatest Istanbul actions for adults, and there are some good cafes across the mosque which provide a terrific place to relaxation your toes after making the trek to the highest. Fortunately, strolling again down is way simpler. If you wish to be taught extra, take into account taking a information with an area. Click on right here for particulars and to e book.
Deal with: Süleymaniye, Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Cd. No:1, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul
16. Çamlıca Hill
Every time I need to escape the hustle and bustle of the town, I bounce in a taxi to Çamlıca Hill with a bag filled with snacks able to benefit from the peaceable vibes. Right here, you’ll be able to see the entire metropolis and seize among the greatest pictures attainable. It’s an actual delight in the summertime, however equally as stunning when it’s snowed.
You possibly can say this is among the best-kept secret issues to do in Istanbul as a result of it’s tucked behind Üsküdar on the Asian facet, and is primarily standard with locals. I really like watching the sundown from right here, however even if you happen to don’t keep for therefore lengthy, it’s top-of-the-line locations to go to in Istanbul.
Deal with: Kısıklı, Çamlıca Tepesi yl No:25/10, 34692 Üsküdar/İstanbul
17. Go to a Soccer Match
Even if you happen to don’t have a selected allegiance to an Istanbul soccer crew, going to a match is among the high issues to do in Istanbul. I’ve been to see Beşiktaş and I’ve been to Galatasaray a number of instances, primarily as a result of my husband is a giant fan. And I’ve to say, it’s a enjoyable, family-friendly expertise; I actually didn’t anticipate to get pleasure from it as a lot as I did!
The crowds generally is a little intense, and there’s a whole lot of shouting, however you simply should float and take part. I went to see a Champions League match, and I had a lot enjoyable. I’d positively suggest catching a recreation if you happen to can.
Deal with: RAMS Park, Huzur Mh., Metin Oktay Caddesi, 34386 Sarıyer/İstanbul
18. Eat Road Meals
Whereas making your manner via this checklist of locations to go to in Istanbul, you’re going to work up an urge for food. Now, there are numerous eating places, and it’s best to attempt as many as you’ll be able to, however road meals is the best way to go. For me, Istanbul is the road meals metropolis of desires, and there’s an nearly limitless quantity of issues to attempt.
In actual fact, I’d say this is among the greatest issues to do in Istanbul. You’ll be able to attempt pide, kokoreç, kumpir, börek, halka tatlısı, balık ekmek, doner, köfte, gözleme, the checklist goes on. I are inclined to eat an excessive amount of on the go after which don’t need dinner, however there are such a lot of scrumptious treats round, that it’s arduous to say no.
Deal with: Cihannüma, Beşiktaş Cd., 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
19. Rumeli Fortress
As soon as upon a time, Istanbul was always beneath assault from totally different armies attempting to beat what was then often known as Constantinople. To warn of impending assaults, Rumeli Fortress was constructed on the European facet of the Bosphorus, with one other fort instantly reverse the Asian facet. At the moment, visiting Rumeli Fortress is among the greatest issues to do in Istanbul.
The rationale I like this attraction is that it’s not proper in the midst of the town, that means you’re already inhaling brisker air. The views from the highest are mind-blowing, and it’s top-of-the-line locations to go to close to Istanbul which is rarely overly crowded.
Deal with: Rumeli Hisarı, Yahya Kemal Cd., 34470 Sarıyer/İstanbul
20. Go to Bebek
Arms down, top-of-the-line issues to do close to Istanbul with out being proper in the midst of the town is to take a day journey to Bebek. Situated down the Bosphorus, away from Beşiktaş, this seaside part of the town feels such as you’re one million miles away when in actuality you’re solely about 20 minutes away from the Bosphorus Bridge.
Bebek is an upmarket neighborhood in Istanbul, and plenty of native TV sequence are filmed right here. It’s a terrific place for seafood and steak eating places, however I get pleasure from grabbing a takeaway espresso and strolling alongside the waterside, watching the large tankers slowly edging their manner alongside the Bosphorus strait.
Deal with: Bebek, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
21. Maiden’s Tower
Maiden’s Tower ought to be in your checklist of issues to do in Istanbul, particularly if you happen to’re visiting as a pair – it’s a really romantic and picturesque place to go. There are a whole lot of legends about why this tower is caught in the midst of an islet by itself, however both manner, it’s one of the crucial well-known sights within the metropolis.
You’ll be able to eat lunch or dinner on the restaurant contained in the tower, however you’ll positively want to order a desk forward of time. Alternatively, you’ll be able to take a memorable non-public helicopter tour over each Maiden’s Tower and Galata Tower, for an expertise you’ll always remember. Click on right here for particulars.
Deal with: Salacak, Salacak Mevkii, 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbul
22. Istanbul Archaeological Museum
The Istanbul Archaeological Museum is full of superb issues to see, and it’s one in all my favourite issues to do in Istanbul, Turkey on a wet day. Right here, you’ll be able to see artifacts from all through historical past, particularly from the Ottoman interval. This museum is a part of a trio, together with The Tiled Kiosk Museum and The Museum of Historical Orient.
Historical past lovers ought to ensure that to carve out a while to move right here, and it’s an excellent place to go to with older children too as they’ll be taught as they transfer across the totally different exhibitions.
Deal with: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
23. Galataport
Galataport is one in all Istanbul’s latest sights, and it’s one of many high issues to see in Istanbul if you happen to’re in search of good views and meals. It’s mainly a big buying heart, however it gives the perfect views over to Asia and throughout the Golden Horn. It’s additionally a terrific spot for gastronomy and options Salt Bae Burger, a part of the Nusr-et chain.
There are lots of occasions held right here all year long, and it’s the proper spot for a day espresso with a view. Alternatively, you’ll be able to head there within the early night, get pleasure from a meal, and take a look at an incredible sundown.
Deal with: Kılıçali Paşa Mah. Meclis-i Mebusan Cad. No: 8 İç Kapı No: 102, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
24. Breakfast Road in Beşiktaş
There’s no higher method to begin the day than with a hearty breakfast, and Turkey is aware of how one can do breakfast in model. Recognized regionally as kahvalti, this can be a feast and a half, and my favourite ‘foodie factor’ to do. So, think about my delight after I found that Beşiktaş has an entire road devoted to breakfast eating places, often known as Kahvalti Sokak.
That is palms down one of many high issues to do in Istanbul within the morning, and also you’ll be full up till dinner. My favourite breakfast restaurant is Eleven Brothers they usually additionally provide superb desserts, together with chocolate-covered crepes.
Deal with: Kahvalti Sokak, Sinanpaşa, Çelebi Oğlu Sk. No:26, 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
25. Nostalgic İstiklal Caddesi Tram
Some of the distinctive issues to do in Istanbul is to take the Nostalgic İstiklal Caddesi Tram in Taksim. This transports you from the highest of Taksim Sq., proper all the way down to the underside of İstiklal Caddesi, passing drained buyers as you go. You’ll positively do your toes a favor by doing this and can get view of the road to see the place you may need to double again to.
Nevertheless, the tram could be very small, and there aren’t many seats so it’s best to anticipate to queue. It’s additionally fairly ‘jerky’ because of its age, so bear in mind to carry on tight.
Deal with: Kuloğlu, İstiklal Cd., 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Issues To Do in Istanbul: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Istanbul:
Istanbul is understood for its wealthy historical past and tradition. Nevertheless, it’s additionally full of modern-day enjoyable and among the greatest meals on the planet.
November to April are wonderful instances to go to Istanbul as a result of the climate is cooler and it’s simpler to deal with the crowds. It will possibly usually snow in December-February. Regardless of that, Istanbul is a year-round vacation spot.
Istanbul is 100% price visiting. Historical past, tradition, nightlife, buying, gastronomy, nature, superb surroundings – what extra might you need?
Whereas it is possible for you to to see a small portion of Istanbul in round three days, I’d suggest staying for a minimum of per week. It will can help you see extra comfortably, with out having to hurry round.
Istanbul is as protected as some other massive metropolis. You merely want to recollect to apply widespread sense and take common security precautions akin to not strolling with massive sums of money or flashing valuables in crowded areas.
Exploring the Sultanahmet space is the most well-liked factor to do in Istanbul. Right here, you’ll discover the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Topkapı Palace, and Basilica Cistern. That is probably the most historic a part of the town.
Istanbul is a high place for foodies. Pide, lahmacun, Börek, and Adana kebab are nice choices to get you began.
Three days will can help you see some of Istanbul, however per week will provide you with a greater likelihood of seeing extra.
Sure, you’ll be able to drink alcohol in Istanbul.
Sure, you’ll be able to kiss in Turkey, however do not forget that this can be a Muslim nation, so brazenly kissing on the street could direct some stares your manner and draw some undesirable consideration.
Sure, you’ll be able to put on shorts in Istanbul, nonetheless, if you wish to go to a mosque, you’ll need to alter into lengthy trousers/pants, or an extended skirt.
Istanbul is as low-cost or costly as you need it to be. There are lots of methods to chop prices, akin to consuming native and road meals, however there are some extraordinarily luxurious eating places and inns to select from too.
Sure, it’s protected to exit at night time in Istanbul, nonetheless, as with all massive metropolis, it isn’t clever to stroll round by yourself in quiet locations or showcase any of your valuables. Should you’re across the Taksim/Beyoğlu space, I’d advise catching a taxi dwelling fairly than strolling.
Sure, a girl can actually journey alone in Turkey so long as she takes the common security precautions that you’d soak up any nation around the globe. Turkey is a really welcoming nation, and many ladies journey right here solo.
In Closing
To me, Istanbul is magical. I don’t know anybody who’s ever been earlier than and never wished to return. I hope that’s the case for you, and with this checklist of issues to do in Istanbul, you’ve obtained quite a bit to work via.
Whereas Istanbul won’t be the capital metropolis, it’s actually the most important by far, and I imagine it showcases Turkey because the fantastic and cultural nation that it’s. Sure, it’s well-known for its ridiculous visitors, however look past that, and also you’ll see a metropolis that’s dwelling to all the things you could possibly presumably search for in a vacation spot, and a lot extra.