There are such a lot of issues to do in Istanbul, Turkey to maintain even essentially the most fidgety individual occupied. There’s one factor it’s good to know, nonetheless: whenever you’re sightseeing in Istanbul, you may neglect about vogue. Significantly, you want snug footwear 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fairly like Istanbul; with a historical past that dates again over 2500 years, you may look forward to finding loads of outdated buildings and ruins right here, however there’s a lot extra to this metropolis than its previous.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.
In fact, it is a enormous metropolis – it’s huge – so that you’ll must 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 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 at the least a couple of weeks. I’m fortunate that he has household there and, being Turkish, he is aware of the world inside out and may present me the very best spots.
The issue with not understanding the very first thing about Istanbul is that you would be able to simply get misplaced and miss the very best bits. Istanbul’s sights are plentiful, however they will also be fairly a distance away from one another. That’s why this checklist of issues to do in Istanbul will are available in very helpful when serving to you set collectively an itinerary.
1. Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque is certainly one of the 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 exterior is simply as breathtaking. It’s price mentioning that it is a functioning mosque so bear in mind that it’s going to shut (and reopen) at sure occasions 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 means in such a giant metropolis. In fact, this is likely 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.
Handle: Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
2. Dolmabahçe Palace
One of the crucial jaw-dropping sights 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 a bit of at first as a result of I’m all about taking pictures, nonetheless, I used to be so misplaced in what I used to be seeing, I utterly forgot about my digicam.
This was the previous dwelling of Atatürk, the founding father of the Turkish Republic, nevertheless it was initially in-built 1843 as a palace for the Ottoman sultans. The eye to element is mind-blowing, and it’s no shock this is likely one of 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 among the finest issues to see in Istanbul. Constructed in 1465, it’s one of the common issues to see in Istanbul. I’d suggest you go as early within the morning as you may 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 gorgeous as the inside, however with gold plated actually all the pieces, and superb views over the Bosphorus, it is a place that can transport you again in time. You would 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.
Handle: 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 occasions and I hope you can be too! You’ll be able to select a cruise with dinner or simply persist with sightseeing, however trying out town from the water is likely one of the finest issues to do in Istanbul at evening.
You’ll discover numerous totally different corporations providing cruises, however pre-booking takes the trouble away. In case you go all the way down to Karaköy ferry terminal or Eminönü you’ll see numerous distributors promoting journeys however selecting the best one may be hectic whenever 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 info and to e book.
Handle: Most excursions depart from Karaköy ferry terminal: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Genelev, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
5. Buying at Cevahir AVM
In case you’re searching for 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 basically an enormous amusement heart with rides and video games for kids. There’s additionally a cinema for these trying to do one thing indoors.
In case you go to in December, you’ll see your complete mall adorned for New 12 months, with an enormous tree (in Turkey, “Christmas” bushes are used at New 12 months as a substitute), and loads of enjoyable actions for your complete household. It’s a good 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 common 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 likely 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 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 helpful that can assist you be taught extra. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
7. Basilica Cistern
Basilica Cistern stunned me in all the very best methods doable. This is likely one of the high vacationer sights in Istanbul, nevertheless it’s deep underground, so except you recognize about it, it may be simple to overlook. Don’t let that occur – that is certainly one of 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, nevertheless 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 good alternative. Click on right here for extra info.
Handle: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul
8. Gulhane Park
It’d shock you to be taught that there are numerous open, inexperienced areas in Istanbul, however Gulhane Park is likely one of the finest and may be discovered immediately behind Topkapı Palace. I believe this is likely one of the finest issues to do in Istanbul for households as a result of the vast open areas are perfect for youngsters 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 identical to Narnia. It’s such a wonderful area with benches, statues, and plenty of wildlife should you look intently. There’s additionally a restaurant to purchase tea, espresso, tender drinks, and ice cream.
While 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.
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 like taking the ferry from the European facet over to the Asian facet, and feeding the seagulls as I’m going. That is truly simply public transport, as individuals go from one facet to the opposite for work and basic life, nevertheless it’s an excellent 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 exterior, however undoubtedly take a coat (even should you assume it’s heat) – these Bosphorus winds may be depraved.
Handle: Ferries depart from Eminönü, Beşiktaş, and Karaköy. Eminönü is the busiest port: Hobyar, Reşadiye Cd. No:8, 34112 Fatih/İstanbul
10. Grand Bazaar
Top-of-the-line locations to go to in Istanbul for conventional buying is the Grand Bazaar. Constructed again in 1455, this is likely one of the oldest and largest lined markets on the planet. It’s a maze of retailers that calls for at the least a few hours to navigate however the ambiance 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, should you’re visiting with youngsters, ensure you maintain their arms 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
In case 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 lined 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 buy all method of spices, Turkish delight, nuts, and different treats. It ought to undoubtedly be in your checklist 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 likely 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 lots of beer locations right here, nevertheless 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 shifting across the avenue serenading keen prospects. It may be fairly loud, nevertheless it’s a very satisfying expertise, and though I’m not the largest seafood fan, I significantly loved my meal at Ney’le Mey’le.
Handle: 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. In case you’ve ever seen any images of Istanbul, you’ve probably seen one with the bridge and the mosque collectively.
A go to to Ortaköy is likely one of the high issues to do in Istanbul, and I at all times take pleasure in grabbing a kumpir (jacket potato) from one of many outside 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 probably miss Galata Tower off of this checklist. This enormous tower has appeared 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 facet and past.
In case you’re afraid of heights, this may not be in your checklist of issues to do in Istanbul, however you may nonetheless go to and take pictures from floor stage. While you’re strolling across the high of the tower, it could possibly get crowded, and also you’ll must stroll in a single file. In case you’re touring with youngsters, you should definitely hold a good maintain of them.
Handle: Bereketzade, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul. You can even take a guided tour. Click on right here for particulars.
15. Süleymaniye Mosque
You’ll want some snug strolling footwear to stroll up the beautiful massive hill to Süleymaniye Mosque nevertheless it’s greater than well worth the effort. The mosque complicated itself is just gorgeous in structure, and it’s such a peaceable and serene space. The views over the Golden Horn are breathtaking.
This is likely one of the finest Istanbul actions for adults, and there are some good cafes across the mosque which supply an excellent 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, think about taking a information with an area. Click on right here for particulars and to e 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 soar 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 a number of the finest images doable. It’s an actual delight in the summertime, however equally as stunning when it’s snowed.
You would say this is likely one of 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 common with locals. I like watching the sundown from right here, however even should you don’t keep for therefore lengthy, it’s among the finest locations to go to in Istanbul.
Handle: Kısıklı, Çamlıca Tepesi yl No:25/10, 34692 Üsküdar/İstanbul
17. Go to a Soccer Match
Even should you don’t have a selected allegiance to an Istanbul soccer crew, going to a match is likely one of the high issues to do in Istanbul. I’ve been to see Beşiktaş and I’ve been to Galatasaray a number of occasions, 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 lots of shouting, however you simply need to glide and take part. I went to see a Champions League match, and I had a lot enjoyable. I’d undoubtedly suggest catching a sport should you can.
Handle: RAMS Park, Huzur Mh., Metin Oktay Caddesi, 34386 Sarıyer/İstanbul
18. Eat Road Meals
Whereas making your means by 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 strive as many as you may, however avenue meals is the best way to go. For me, Istanbul is the road meals metropolis of goals, and there’s an nearly limitless quantity of issues to strive.
Actually, I’d say this is likely one of the finest issues to do in Istanbul. You’ll be able to strive 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 onerous to say no.
Handle: Cihannüma, Beşiktaş Cd., 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
19. Rumeli Fortress
As soon as upon a time, Istanbul was continuously beneath 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 facet of the Bosphorus, with one other fortress immediately reverse the Asian facet. Right this moment, visiting Rumeli Fortress is likely one of the finest issues to do in Istanbul.
The rationale I like this attraction is that it’s not proper in the course of town, which means you’re already inhaling brisker air. The views from the highest are mind-blowing, and it’s among the finest locations to go to close to Istanbul which is infrequently overly crowded.
Handle: Rumeli Hisarı, Yahya Kemal Cd., 34470 Sarıyer/İstanbul
20. Go to Bebek
Fingers down, among the finest issues to do close to Istanbul with out being proper in the course 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 sequence are filmed right here. It’s an excellent place for seafood and steak eating places, however I take pleasure in grabbing a takeaway espresso and strolling alongside the waterside, watching the large tankers slowly edging their means alongside the Bosphorus strait.
Handle: Bebek, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
21. Maiden’s Tower
Maiden’s Tower needs to be in your checklist of issues to do in Istanbul, particularly should you’re visiting as a pair – it’s a really romantic and picturesque place to go. There are lots of legends about why this tower is caught in the course of an islet by itself, however both means, it’s one of the 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 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.
Handle: Salacak, Salacak Mevkii, 34668 Üsküdar/İstanbul
22. Istanbul Archaeological Museum
The Istanbul Archaeological Museum is filled with superb issues to see, and it’s certainly 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 Historical Orient.
Historical past lovers ought to ensure that to carve out a while to move right here, and it’s a super place to go to with older children too as they’ll be taught as they transfer across the totally different exhibitions.
Handle: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
23. Galataport
Galataport is certainly one of Istanbul’s latest sights, and it’s one of many high issues to see in Istanbul should you’re searching for good views and meals. It’s mainly a big buying heart, nevertheless it affords the very best views over to Asia and throughout the Golden Horn. It’s additionally an excellent 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 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 an incredible sundown.
Handle: 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 do breakfast in model. 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 an entire avenue devoted to breakfast eating places, referred to as Kahvalti Sokak.
That is arms 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 supply superb 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 all the way down to the underside of İstiklal Caddesi, passing drained buyers as you go. You’ll undoubtedly do your toes a favor by doing this and can get a superb view of the road to see the place you may need to double again to.
Nevertheless, the tram may 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.
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 filled with modern-day enjoyable and a number of the finest meals on the planet.
November to April are wonderful occasions to go to Istanbul as a result of the climate is cooler and it’s simpler to deal with the crowds. It will probably typically 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 may 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 at the least every week. It will assist you to see extra comfortably, with out having to hurry round.
Istanbul is as protected as another giant metropolis. You merely want to recollect to apply frequent sense and take common security precautions equivalent to not strolling with giant 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 essentially 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 every week will provide you with a greater likelihood of seeing extra.
Sure, you may drink alcohol in Istanbul.
Sure, you may kiss in Turkey, however do not forget that it is a Muslim nation, so brazenly kissing on the street could direct some stares your means and draw some undesirable consideration.
Sure, you may put on shorts in Istanbul, nonetheless, if you wish to go to a mosque, you will want 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, equivalent to consuming native and avenue meals, however there are some extraordinarily luxurious eating places and motels to select from too.
Sure, it’s protected to exit at evening in Istanbul, nonetheless, as with every giant metropolis, it isn’t clever to stroll round by yourself in quiet locations or showcase any of your valuables. In case you’re across the Taksim/Beyoğlu space, I’d advise catching a taxi dwelling somewhat than strolling.
Sure, a lady can definitely journey alone in Turkey so long as she takes the common security precautions that you’d soak up any nation world wide. 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 acquired quite a bit to work by.
Whereas Istanbul may not be the capital metropolis, it’s definitely the largest 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 pieces you could possibly probably search for in a vacation spot, and a lot extra.
