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 essential to know, nevertheless: if you’re sightseeing in Istanbul, you may neglect about trend. Significantly, you want comfy sneakers since you’re going to need to preserve exploring!
Your ft will throb on the finish of the day, however belief me, it’s oh-so value 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fairly like Istanbul; with a historical past that dates again over 2500 years, you may anticipate finding loads of outdated buildings and ruins right here, however there’s a lot extra to this metropolis than its previous.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, it is a enormous metropolis – it’s large – so that you’ll have to 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 submit, I’ll share all my secrets and techniques, so you can begin planning your time.
Finest 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’m going again with my husband each winter for not less than a couple of weeks. I’m fortunate that he has household there and, being Turkish, he is aware of the world inside out and might present me the perfect spots.
The issue with not understanding the very first thing about Istanbul is you can simply get misplaced and miss the perfect bits. Istanbul’s points of interest are plentiful, however they will also be fairly a distance away from one another. That’s why this listing of issues to do in Istanbul will are available in very useful when serving to you place collectively an itinerary.
1. Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque is definitely one of the vital lovely 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 exterior is simply as breathtaking. It’s value mentioning that it is a functioning mosque so keep in mind that it’ll shut (and reopen) at sure instances of the day for prayers.
The surroundings round Blue Mosque is extraordinarily photographic, however I most take pleasure in merely strolling round and absorbing the serene ambiance; 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 allow you to perceive extra. Click here for more details.
Handle: Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
2. Dolmabahçe Palace
One of the crucial jaw-dropping points of interest in Istanbul is Dolmabahçe Palace – a spot so opulent it’ll take you a second to get your head round it. You’ll be able to’t take images inside, which bothered me a bit of at first as a result of I’m all about taking images, nevertheless, I used to be so misplaced in what I used to be seeing, I fully forgot about my digital camera.
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.
Handle: 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 vital well-liked issues to see in Istanbul. I’d advocate you go as early within the morning as you may because the queues construct up fairly shortly and in my expertise, they don’t transfer too quick.
Nevertheless, when you’re in, you’ll be glad you waited. The gardens are virtually as gorgeous as the inside, however with gold plated actually every little thing, and wonderful views over the Bosphorus, it is a place that may transport you again in time. You would additionally contemplate a guided tour. I discovered this one actually helpful for understanding extra about what I used to be seeing. Click here for details.
Handle: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
4. Bosphorus Sundown Cruise
For me, one of many coolest issues to do in Istanbul is take a Bosphorus sunset cruise. I’ve been fortunate sufficient to see dolphins a few instances and I hope you can be too! You’ll be able to select a cruise with dinner or simply follow sightseeing, however testing town from the water is among the greatest issues to do in Istanbul at night time.
You’ll discover a number of completely different firms providing cruises, however pre-booking takes the trouble away. For those who go right down to Karaköy ferry terminal or Eminönü you’ll see a number of distributors promoting journeys however selecting the best one will be demanding if you’re placed on the spot and so they’re all making an attempt to get your consideration at you directly. Click here for more information and to book.
Handle: Most excursions go away from Karaköy ferry terminal: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Genelev, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
5. Buying at Cevahir AVM
For those who’re on the lookout for issues to do in Istanbul for youths, particularly on a wet day, I’d advocate heading to Cevahir AVM. This can be a enormous shopping center with shops, eating places, cafes, and an enormous Enjoyable Lab, which is actually an enormous amusement heart with rides and video games for youngsters. There’s additionally a cinema for these seeking to do one thing indoors.
For those who go to in December, you’ll see your complete mall adorned for New 12 months, with an enormous tree (in Turkey, “Christmas” timber are used at New 12 months as an alternative), and loads of enjoyable actions for your complete household. It’s an effective way to beat a wet or chilly day.
Handle: 19 Mayıs, Büyükdere Cd. No:22, 34360 Şişli/İstanbul
6. Hagia Sophia
One of the crucial well-liked 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 lovely and oldest buildings in Istanbul, relationship again to 537 AD. Hagia Sophia sits instantly reverse the Blue Mosque and the sq. is colorfully adorned with flowers all yr spherical.
It’s free to enter Hagia Sophia, nevertheless, contributions are welcomed. That is one other functioning mosque, so keep in mind that it’ll shut for a short while throughout prayer. A guided tour is at all times really useful that can assist you be taught extra. Click here for more details.
Handle: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
7. Basilica Cistern
Basilica Cistern shocked me in all the perfect methods potential. This is among the high vacationer points of interest in Istanbul, however it’s deep underground, so until about it, it may be simple to overlook. Don’t let that occur – that is considered one of my favourite issues to do round Istanbul.
Constructed within the yr 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 ambiance; perhaps 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 here for more information.
Handle: 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 will be discovered instantly behind Topkapı Palace. I believe this is among the greatest issues to do in Istanbul for households as a result of the huge 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 a bit of, and it felt similar to Narnia. It’s such a wonderful house with benches, statues, and many wildlife for those who look intently. There’s additionally a restaurant to purchase tea, espresso, comfortable drinks, and ice cream.
Whenever you’re planning your itinerary for Istanbul, I’d extremely advocate a stroll round right here, for a break from the hustle and bustle of Sultanahmet if nothing else.
Handle: 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 aspect over to the Asian aspect, and feeding the seagulls as I’m going. That is truly simply public transport, as individuals go from one aspect to the opposite for work and normal life, however it’s a fantastic expertise, and the views are wonderful.
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 exterior, however undoubtedly take a coat (even for those who assume it’s heat) – these Bosphorus winds will be depraved.
Handle: Ferries go away from Eminönü, Beşiktaş, and Karaköy. Eminönü is the busiest port: Hobyar, Reşadiye Cd. No:8, 34112 Fatih/İstanbul
10. Grand Bazaar
The most effective locations to go to in Istanbul for conventional procuring is the Grand Bazaar. Constructed again in 1455, this is among the oldest and largest covered markets on the planet. It’s a maze of retailers that calls for not less than a few hours to navigate however the ambiance is a lot enjoyable.
That is excessive on my listing of locations to go to in Istanbul each time as a result of I at all times handle to seize some bargains. Nevertheless, for those who’re visiting with kids, ensure you maintain their fingers tightly as this place can get extraordinarily busy, and it’s simple to get caught up within the crowds.
Handle: Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul
11. Egyptian Spice Bazaar
For those who’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 an excellent colourful place and is a great spot for images.
Right here, you should purchase all method of spices, Turkish delight, nuts, and different treats. It ought to undoubtedly be in your listing of issues to see in Istanbul, though it shouldn’t take greater than an hour to discover.
Handle: 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 various 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 aspect is a standard 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 pleasurable expertise, and though I’m not the most important seafood fan, I significantly loved my meal at Ney’le Mey’le.
Handle: Hüseyinağa, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
13. Go to Ortaköy
Proper by the massive Bosphorus Bridge, you’ll discover the Ortaköy district – a enjoyable spot that’s dwelling to meals and merriment all yr spherical. You can even go to the attractive Ortaköy mosque, which dates again to 1854. For those who’ve ever seen any images of Istanbul, you’ve most probably 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 take pleasure in 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 assume you may handle and it’s a well-known dish from this a part of town. Oh, and waffles! Don’t neglect the waffles.
Handle: Ortaköy, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
14. Galata Tower
I couldn’t presumably miss Galata Tower off of this listing. This enormous tower has seemed over 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 supply spectacular sights proper over to the Asian aspect and past.
For those who’re frightened of heights, this may not be in your listing of issues to do in Istanbul, however you may nonetheless go to and take images from floor stage. Whenever you’re strolling across the high of the tower, it could get crowded, and also you’ll have to stroll in a single file. For those who’re touring with kids, remember to preserve a decent maintain of them.
Handle: Bereketzade, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul. You can even take a guided tour. Click here for details.
15. Süleymaniye Mosque
You’ll want some comfy strolling sneakers to stroll up the gorgeous massive hill to Süleymaniye Mosque however it’s greater than definitely worth the effort. The mosque complicated itself is solely gorgeous 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 fantastic place to relaxation your ft after making the trek to the highest. Fortunately, strolling again down is far simpler. If you wish to be taught extra, contemplate taking a information with a neighborhood. Click here for details and to book.
Handle: Süleymaniye, Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Cd. No:1, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul
16. Çamlıca Hill
At any time when I need to escape the hustle and bustle of town, I leap in a taxi to Çamlıca Hill with a bag stuffed with snacks able to benefit from the peaceable vibes. Right here, you may see the entire metropolis and seize among the greatest images potential. It’s an actual delight in the summertime, however equally as lovely when it’s snowed.
You would 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 aspect, and is primarily well-liked with locals. I really like watching the sundown from right here, however even for those who don’t keep for thus lengthy, it’s top-of-the-line locations to go to in Istanbul.
Handle: Kısıklı, Çamlıca Tepesi yl No:25/10, 34692 Üsküdar/İstanbul
17. Go to a Soccer Match
Even for those who don’t have a selected allegiance to an Istanbul soccer staff, 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 take pleasure in it as a lot as I did!
The crowds could be a little intense, and there’s quite a lot of shouting, however you simply need to drift and take part. I went to see a Champions League match, and I had a lot enjoyable. I’d undoubtedly advocate catching a recreation for those who can.
Handle: RAMS Park, Huzur Mh., Metin Oktay Caddesi, 34386 Sarıyer/İstanbul
18. Eat Avenue Meals
Whereas making your manner by means of this listing 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 is best to attempt as many as you may, however road meals is the way in which to go. For me, Istanbul is the road meals metropolis of goals, and there’s an virtually infinite quantity of issues to attempt.
In reality, 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 listing goes on. I are likely 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.
Handle: Cihannüma, Beşiktaş Cd., 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
19. Rumeli Fortress
As soon as upon a time, Istanbul was always beneath assault from completely different armies making an attempt to beat what was then generally known as Constantinople. To warn of impending assaults, Rumeli Fortress was constructed on the European aspect of the Bosphorus, with one other fortress instantly reverse the Asian aspect. In the present day, 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 town, which 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.
Handle: Rumeli Hisarı, Yahya Kemal Cd., 34470 Sarıyer/İstanbul
20. Go to Bebek
Fingers down, top-of-the-line issues to do close to Istanbul with out being proper in the midst of town is to take a day journey to Bebek. Situated down the Bosphorus, away from Beşiktaş, this seaside part of town feels such as you’re 1,000,000 miles away when in actuality you’re solely about 20 minutes away from the Bosphorus Bridge.
Bebek is an upmarket neighborhood in Istanbul, and lots of native TV collection are filmed right here. It’s a fantastic place for seafood and steak eating places, however I take pleasure in grabbing a takeaway espresso and strolling alongside the waterside, watching the massive tankers slowly edging their manner alongside the Bosphorus strait.
Handle: Bebek, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
21. Maiden’s Tower
Maiden’s Tower ought to be in your listing of issues to do in Istanbul, particularly for those who’re visiting as a pair – it’s a really romantic and picturesque place to go. There are quite a 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 vital 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 undoubtedly want to order a desk forward of time. Alternatively, you may take a memorable private helicopter tour over each Maiden’s Tower and Galata Tower, for an expertise you’ll always remember. Click here for details.
Handle: Salacak, Salacak Mevkii, 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbul
22. Istanbul Archaeological Museum
The Istanbul Archaeological Museum is full of wonderful issues to see, and it’s considered one of my favourite issues to do in Istanbul, Turkey on a wet day. Right here, you may 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 Ancient Orient.
Historical past lovers ought to be certain to carve out a while to move right here, and it’s an excellent place to go to with older youngsters too as they’ll be taught as they transfer across the completely different exhibitions.
Handle: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
23. Galataport
Galataport is considered one of Istanbul’s latest points of interest, and it’s one of many high issues to see in Istanbul for those who’re on the lookout for good views and meals. It’s mainly a big procuring heart, however it presents the perfect views over to Asia and throughout the Golden Horn. It’s additionally a fantastic spot for gastronomy and options Salt Bae Burger, a part of the Nusr-et chain.
There are various occasions held right here all year long, and it’s the right spot for a day espresso with a view. Alternatively, you may head there within the early night, take pleasure in a meal, and take a look at a tremendous sundown.
Handle: Kılıçali Paşa Mah. Meclis-i Mebusan Cad. No: 8 İç Kapı No: 102, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
24. Breakfast Avenue in Beşiktaş
There’s no higher solution to begin the day than with a hearty breakfast, and Turkey is aware of how one can do breakfast in type. Identified domestically as kahvalti, it is a feast and a half, and my favourite ‘foodie factor’ to do. So, think about my delight after I found that Beşiktaş has a complete road devoted to breakfast eating places, generally known as Kahvalti Sokak.
That is fingers 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 and so they additionally supply wonderful desserts, together with chocolate-covered crepes.
Handle: Kahvalti Sokak, Sinanpaşa, Çelebi Oğlu Sk. No:26, 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
25. Nostalgic İstiklal Caddesi Tram
One of the crucial 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 right down to the underside of İstiklal Caddesi, passing drained consumers as you go. You’ll undoubtedly do your ft a favor by doing this and can get a very good view of the road to see the place you would possibly need to double again to.
Nevertheless, the tram could be very small, and there aren’t many seats so it is best to anticipate to queue. It’s additionally fairly ‘jerky’ due to its age, so keep in mind to carry on tight.
Handle: 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 may well usually snow in December-February. Regardless of that, Istanbul is a year-round vacation spot.
Istanbul is 100% value visiting. Historical past, tradition, nightlife, procuring, gastronomy, nature, wonderful 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 might advocate staying for not less than per week. It will assist you to see extra comfortably, with out having to hurry round.
Istanbul is as safe as any other large city. You merely want to recollect to observe widespread sense and take common security precautions comparable to not strolling with massive sums of money or flashing valuables in crowded areas.
Exploring the Sultanahmet space is the preferred 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 town.
Istanbul is a high place for foodies. Pide, lahmacun, Börek, and Adana kebab are nice choices to get you began.
Three days will assist you to see some of Istanbul, however per week provides you with a greater likelihood of seeing extra.
Sure, you may drink alcohol in Istanbul.
Sure, you may kiss in Turkey, however keep in mind that it is a Muslim nation, so overtly kissing on the street could direct some stares your manner and draw some undesirable consideration.
Sure, you may put on shorts in Istanbul, nevertheless, if you wish to go to a mosque, you will have to alter into lengthy trousers/pants, or a protracted skirt.
Istanbul is as low-cost or costly as you need it to be. There are various methods to chop prices, comparable to consuming native and road meals, however there are some extraordinarily luxurious eating places and accommodations to select from too.
Sure, it’s secure to exit at night time in Istanbul, nevertheless, as with all massive metropolis, it isn’t smart to stroll round by yourself in quiet locations or showcase any of your valuables. For those who’re across the Taksim/Beyoğlu space, I’d advise catching a taxi dwelling relatively than strolling.
Sure, a girl can actually journey alone in Turkey so long as she takes the common security precautions that you’d absorb any nation all over the world. 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 listing of issues to do in Istanbul, you’ve obtained so much to work by means of.
Whereas Istanbul may not be the capital metropolis, it’s actually the most important by far, and I consider it showcases Turkey because the great 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 every little thing you might presumably search for in a vacation spot, and a lot extra.
