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 you must know, nevertheless: while you’re sightseeing in Istanbul, you possibly can overlook about trend. Severely, you want snug sneakers since you’re going to wish to maintain 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 possibly can look forward to finding loads of previous 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 rely.
After all, it is a large metropolis – it’s huge – so that you’ll have to know the very best 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 put up, 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 no less than 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 very best spots.
The issue with not realizing the very first thing about Istanbul is that you could simply get misplaced and miss the very best bits. Istanbul’s points of interest are plentiful, however they may also be fairly a distance away from one another. That’s why this record 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 for sure probably the most 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 it is a functioning mosque so keep 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 method in such a giant metropolis. After all, this is without doubt one of the hottest locations to go to in Istanbul, so a guided tour will assist you perceive extra. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
2. Dolmabahçe Palace
One of the jaw-dropping points of interest in Istanbul is Dolmabahçe Palace – a spot so opulent it can take you a second to get your head round it. You’ll be able to’t take images inside, which bothered me just a little 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 utterly forgot about my digicam.
This was the previous residence 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 without doubt one of the high locations to go to in Istanbul.
Deal with: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
3. Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace was the principle headquarters of the Ottoman Empire, and it’s among the best issues to see in Istanbul. Constructed in 1465, it’s probably the most standard issues to see in Istanbul. I’d advocate you go as early within the morning as you possibly can because the queues construct up fairly rapidly and in my expertise, they don’t transfer too quick.
Nonetheless, 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 superb views over the Bosphorus, it is a place that can transport you again in time. You possibly can additionally think about 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 without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Istanbul at evening.
You’ll discover a lot of totally different corporations providing cruises, however pre-booking takes the trouble away. For those who go all the way down to Karaköy ferry terminal or Eminönü you’ll see a lot of distributors promoting journeys however selecting the best one will be disturbing while you’re placed on the spot and so they’re all attempting to get your consideration at you directly. Click on right here for extra data and to e book.
Deal with: Most excursions depart 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 teenagers, particularly on a wet day, I’d advocate heading to Cevahir AVM. It is a large shopping center with shops, eating places, cafes, and an enormous Enjoyable Lab, which is basically a large amusement heart with rides and video games for youngsters. There’s additionally a cinema for these trying to do one thing indoors.
For those who go to in December, you’ll see the whole mall embellished for New 12 months, with an enormous tree (in Turkey, “Christmas” timber are used at New 12 months as a substitute), and loads of enjoyable actions for the whole household. It’s a good way to beat a wet or chilly day.
Deal with: 19 Mayıs, Büyükdere Cd. No:22, 34360 Şişli/İstanbul
6. Hagia Sophia
One 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 without doubt one of the most stunning and oldest buildings in Istanbul, relationship again to 537 AD. Hagia Sophia sits immediately reverse the Blue Mosque and the sq. is colorfully embellished 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’s going to shut for a short while throughout prayer. A guided tour is all the time beneficial that will help you study extra. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
7. Basilica Cistern
Basilica Cistern stunned me in all the very best methods potential. This is without doubt one of the high vacationer points of interest in Istanbul, however it’s deep underground, so except you recognize about it, it may be straightforward to overlook. Don’t let that occur – that is one in every 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 previous statues of Medusa. What stood out for me was the environment; 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 on right here for extra data.
Deal with: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul
8. Gulhane Park
It would shock you to study that there are a lot of open, inexperienced areas in Istanbul, however Gulhane Park is without doubt one of the finest and will be discovered immediately behind Topkapı Palace. I feel this is without doubt one of the finest 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 just a little, and it felt identical to Narnia. It’s such a stupendous area with benches, statues, and plenty of wildlife when you 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.
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 aspect over to the Asian aspect, and feeding the seagulls as I’m going. That is truly simply public transport, as folks go from one aspect to the opposite for work and normal life, however it’s an important 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 when you assume it’s heat) – these Bosphorus winds will be depraved.
Deal with: Ferries depart from Eminönü, Beşiktaş, and Karaköy. Eminönü is the busiest port: Hobyar, Reşadiye Cd. No:8, 34112 Fatih/İstanbul
10. Grand Bazaar
Among the finest locations to go to in Istanbul for conventional procuring is the Grand Bazaar. Constructed again in 1455, this is without doubt one of the oldest and largest lined markets on the planet. It’s a maze of retailers that calls for no less than a few hours to navigate however the environment is a lot enjoyable.
That is excessive on my record of locations to go to in Istanbul each time as a result of I all the time handle to seize some bargains. Nonetheless, when you’re visiting with kids, be sure to maintain their fingers 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
For those who’re looking out for some spices to take again residence, you should go to the Egyptian Spice Bazaar in Eminönü. That is one other lined 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 images.
Right here, you should purchase all method of spices, Turkish delight, nuts, and different treats. It ought to positively be in your record 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 without doubt one of the high issues to do in Istanbul for {couples}, and it’s a vibrant spot to go to regardless of the time of day or evening. There are a lot 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 aspect is a conventional factor to do.
When you’re consuming, you’ll discover musicians transferring across the road serenading prepared prospects. It may be fairly loud, however it’s a extremely gratifying 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 massive Bosphorus Bridge, you’ll discover the Ortaköy district – a enjoyable spot that’s residence to meals and merriment all yr spherical. You may as well go to the attractive Ortaköy mosque, which dates again to 1854. For those who’ve ever seen any images of Istanbul, you’ve most certainly seen one with the bridge and the mosque collectively.
A go to to Ortaköy is without doubt one of the high issues to do in Istanbul, and I all the time 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 assume you possibly can handle and it’s a well-known dish from this a part of the town. Oh, and waffles! Don’t overlook the waffles.
Deal with: Ortaköy, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
14. Galata Tower
I couldn’t presumably miss Galata Tower off of this record. This large tower has seemed 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 supply spectacular sights proper over to the Asian aspect and past.
For those who’re terrified of heights, this may not be in your record of issues to do in Istanbul, however you possibly can nonetheless go to and take images from floor degree. Whenever you’re strolling across the high of the tower, it will probably get crowded, and also you’ll have to stroll in a single file. For those who’re touring with kids, make sure you maintain a good maintain of them.
Deal with: Bereketzade, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul. You may as well take a guided tour. Click on right here for particulars.
15. Süleymaniye Mosque
You’ll want some snug strolling sneakers to stroll up the beautiful massive hill to Süleymaniye Mosque however it’s greater than well 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 without doubt one of the finest Istanbul actions for adults, and there are some good cafes across the mosque which supply an important place to relaxation your toes after making the trek to the highest. Fortunately, strolling again down is far simpler. If you wish to study extra, think about taking a information with a neighborhood. 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 wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the town, I soar in a taxi to Çamlıca Hill with a bag filled with snacks able to benefit from the peaceable vibes. Right here, you possibly can see the entire metropolis and seize among the finest images potential. It’s an actual delight in the summertime, however equally as stunning when it’s snowed.
You possibly can say this is without doubt one of 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 standard with locals. I really like watching the sundown from right here, however even when you don’t keep for thus lengthy, it’s among the best 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 when you don’t have a specific allegiance to an Istanbul soccer crew, going to a match is without doubt one of 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 is usually a little intense, and there’s numerous shouting, however you simply must float and take part. I went to see a Champions League match, and I had a lot enjoyable. I’d positively advocate catching a sport when you can.
Deal with: RAMS Park, Huzur Mh., Metin Oktay Caddesi, 34386 Sarıyer/İstanbul
18. Eat Road Meals
Whereas making your method by way of this record 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 possibly can, however road meals is the way in which to go. For me, Istanbul is the road meals metropolis of desires, and there’s an virtually infinite quantity of issues to attempt.
In truth, I’d say this is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Istanbul. You’ll be able to attempt pide, kokoreç, kumpir, börek, halka tatlısı, balık ekmek, doner, köfte, gözleme, the record 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.
Deal with: Cihannüma, Beşiktaş Cd., 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
19. Rumeli Fortress
As soon as upon a time, Istanbul was always below assault from totally different armies attempting to beat what was then referred to as Constantinople. To warn of impending assaults, Rumeli Fortress was constructed on the European aspect of the Bosphorus, with one other fort immediately reverse the Asian aspect. Right this moment, visiting Rumeli Fortress is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Istanbul.
The explanation I like this attraction is that it’s not proper in the midst of the town, that means you’re already inhaling more energizing air. The views from the highest are mind-blowing, and it’s among the best 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, among the best issues to do close to Istanbul with out being proper in the midst of the town is to take a day journey to Bebek. Positioned down the Bosphorus, away from Beşiktaş, this seaside part of the 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 sequence are filmed right here. It’s an important place for seafood and steak eating places, however I get pleasure from grabbing a takeaway espresso and strolling alongside the waterside, watching the massive tankers slowly edging their method alongside the Bosphorus strait.
Deal with: Bebek, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
21. Maiden’s Tower
Maiden’s Tower needs to be in your record of issues to do in Istanbul, particularly when you’re visiting as a pair – it’s a really romantic and picturesque place to go. There are numerous legends about why this tower is caught in the midst of an islet by itself, however both method, it’s probably the most 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 possibly can 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 filled with superb issues to see, and it’s one in every of my favourite issues to do in Istanbul, Turkey on a wet day. Right here, you possibly can 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 Historic Orient.
Historical past lovers ought to be sure to carve out a while to move right here, and it’s a great place to go to with older youngsters too as they’ll study as they transfer across the totally different exhibitions.
Deal with: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
23. Galataport
Galataport is one in every of Istanbul’s latest points of interest, and it’s one of many high issues to see in Istanbul when you’re on the lookout for good views and meals. It’s mainly a big procuring heart, however it provides the very best views over to Asia and throughout the Golden Horn. It’s additionally an important spot for gastronomy and options Salt Bae Burger, a part of the Nusr-et chain.
There are a lot of occasions held right here all year long, and it’s the right spot for a day espresso with a view. Alternatively, you possibly can 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 find out how to do breakfast in fashion. Identified regionally 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, referred to 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 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
One 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 customers as you go. You’ll positively do your toes a favor by doing this and can get an excellent view of the road to see the place you may wish to double again to.
Nonetheless, 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’ due to its age, so keep in mind to carry on tight.
Deal with: Kuloğlu, İstiklal Cd., 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Issues To Do in Istanbul: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Istanbul:
Istanbul is thought for its wealthy historical past and tradition. Nonetheless, it’s additionally filled with modern-day enjoyable and among the finest meals on the planet.
November to April are glorious instances to go to Istanbul as a result of the climate is cooler and it’s simpler to deal with the crowds. It might usually snow in December-February. Regardless of that, Istanbul is a year-round vacation spot.
Istanbul is 100% price visiting. Historical past, tradition, nightlife, procuring, 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 might advocate staying for no less than per week. This can help you see extra comfortably, with out having to hurry round.
Istanbul is as secure as some other massive metropolis. You merely want to recollect to observe frequent 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 help you see some of Istanbul, however per week gives you a greater probability of seeing extra.
Sure, you possibly can drink alcohol in Istanbul.
Sure, you possibly can kiss in Turkey, however do not forget that it is a Muslim nation, so overtly kissing on the street could direct some stares your method and draw some undesirable consideration.
Sure, you possibly can 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 a lot 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 secure to exit at evening in Istanbul, nevertheless, as with every massive metropolis, it isn’t clever 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 residence moderately than strolling.
Sure, a lady 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 record of issues to do in Istanbul, you’ve acquired loads to work by way of.
Whereas Istanbul may not 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 site visitors, however look past that, and also you’ll see a metropolis that’s residence to every little thing you would presumably search for in a vacation spot, and a lot extra.
