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 you must know, nonetheless: once you’re sightseeing in Istanbul, you’ll be able to neglect about style. Critically, you want snug sneakers since you’re going to wish 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like Istanbul; with a historical past that dates again over 2500 years, you’ll be able to anticipate finding loads of outdated buildings and ruins right here, however there’s a lot extra to this metropolis than its previous.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, it is 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 no less than just a few 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 perfect spots.
The issue with not figuring out 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 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 useful when serving to you set collectively an itinerary.
1. Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque is undoubtedly 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 value 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 get pleasure from merely strolling round and absorbing the serene environment; it’s fairly uncommon to really feel that method in such an enormous metropolis. After all, this is among the hottest locations to go to in Istanbul, so a guided tour will show you how to 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 vital 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 slightly at first as a result of I’m all about taking photographs, nonetheless, I used to be so misplaced in what I used to be seeing, I fully forgot about my digicam.
This was the previous house of Atatürk, the founding father of the Turkish Republic, nevertheless 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 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 widespread issues to see in Istanbul. I’d advocate you go as early within the morning as you’ll be able to 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 nearly as gorgeous as the inside, however with gold plated actually the whole lot, and superb views over the Bosphorus, it is a place that may transport you again in time. You would 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.
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 may be too! You’ll be able to select a cruise with dinner or simply stick with sightseeing, however testing the town from the water is among the greatest issues to do in Istanbul at evening.
You’ll discover numerous completely different corporations providing cruises, however pre-booking takes the trouble away. Should you go all the way down to Karaköy ferry terminal or Eminönü you’ll see numerous distributors promoting journeys however selecting the best one will be traumatic once you’re placed on the spot they usually’re all making an attempt to get your consideration at you directly. Click on right here for extra data and to ebook.
Handle: Most excursions depart from Karaköy ferry terminal: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Genelev, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
5. Procuring at Cevahir AVM
Should you’re searching for issues to do in Istanbul for teenagers, 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 a large amusement heart with rides and video games for kids. There’s additionally a cinema for these trying to do one thing indoors.
Should you go to in December, you’ll see your complete mall embellished 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 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 vital widespread 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 embellished 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 all the time advisable that will help you study extra. Click on right here for extra particulars.
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, nevertheless it’s deep underground, so until you already know about it, it may be straightforward 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’ll 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 good selection. Click on right here for extra data.
Handle: 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 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 large 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 slightly, and it felt similar to Narnia. It’s such a fantastic house with benches, statues, and plenty of wildlife in the event you look carefully. There’s additionally a restaurant to purchase tea, espresso, comfortable drinks, and ice cream.
If 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 am going. That is truly simply public transport, as folks go from one aspect to the opposite for work and common life, nevertheless it’s an ideal 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’ll sit outdoors, however undoubtedly take a coat (even in the event you suppose it’s heat) – these Bosphorus winds will 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
The most effective locations to go to in Istanbul for conventional purchasing is the Grand Bazaar. Constructed again in 1455, this is among the oldest and largest lined markets on the planet. It’s a maze of outlets 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. Nevertheless, in the event you’re visiting with youngsters, be sure you maintain their palms tightly as this place can get extraordinarily busy, and it’s straightforward to get caught up within the crowds.
Handle: Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul
11. Egyptian Spice Bazaar
Should you’re looking out for some spices to take again house, 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 buy all method of spices, Turkish delight, nuts, and different treats. It ought to undoubtedly be in your record 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 regardless of the time of day or evening. There are a lot 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 aspect is a conventional factor to do.
When you’re consuming, you’ll discover musicians transferring across the avenue serenading prepared prospects. It may be fairly loud, nevertheless it’s a very gratifying 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 massive Bosphorus Bridge, you’ll discover the Ortaköy district – a enjoyable spot that’s house to meals and merriment all 12 months spherical. You may also go to the gorgeous Ortaköy mosque, which dates again to 1854. Should 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 among the high issues to do in Istanbul, and I all the time get pleasure from 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 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.
Handle: Ortaköy, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
14. Galata Tower
I couldn’t presumably miss Galata Tower off of this record. This enormous 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.
Should you’re afraid of heights, this won’t be in your record of issues to do in Istanbul, however you’ll be able to nonetheless go to and take photographs from floor degree. If you’re strolling across the high of the tower, it might probably get crowded, and also you’ll must stroll in a single file. Should you’re touring with youngsters, you should definitely preserve a good maintain of them.
Handle: Bereketzade, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul. You may also take a guided tour. Click on right here for particulars.
15. Süleymaniye Mosque
You’ll want some snug strolling sneakers to stroll up the gorgeous massive hill to Süleymaniye Mosque nevertheless 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 supply an ideal place to relaxation your ft after making the trek to the highest. Fortunately, strolling again down is way simpler. If you wish to study extra, take into account taking a information with an area. Click on right here for particulars and to ebook.
Handle: Süleymaniye, Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Cd. No:1, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul
16. Çamlıca Hill
Each time I wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the town, I leap 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 a number of the greatest images potential. It’s an actual delight in the summertime, however equally as stunning 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 widespread with locals. I really like watching the sundown from right here, however even in the event you don’t keep for therefore lengthy, it’s among the best locations to go to in Istanbul.
Handle: Kısıklı, Çamlıca Tepesi yl No:25/10, 34692 Üsküdar/İstanbul
17. Go to a Soccer Match
Even in the event you don’t have a selected allegiance to an Istanbul soccer workforce, 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 occasions, primarily as a result of my husband is an enormous 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 numerous 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 in the event you can.
Handle: RAMS Park, Huzur Mh., Metin Oktay Caddesi, 34386 Sarıyer/İstanbul
18. Eat Road Meals
Whereas making your method by 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 you need to attempt as many as you’ll be able to, however avenue meals is the best way to go. For me, Istanbul is the road meals metropolis of desires, and there’s an nearly countless quantity of issues to attempt.
In truth, 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 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.
Handle: Cihannüma, Beşiktaş Cd., 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
19. Rumeli Fortress
As soon as upon a time, Istanbul was consistently below assault from completely different armies making an attempt to overcome 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 fortress instantly reverse the Asian aspect. Right this 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, which means you’re already inhaling brisker 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.
Handle: Rumeli Hisarı, Yahya Kemal Cd., 34470 Sarıyer/İstanbul
20. Go to Bebek
Palms 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. 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 lots of native TV collection are filmed right here. It’s an ideal 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.
Handle: Bebek, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
21. Maiden’s Tower
Maiden’s Tower ought to be in your record of issues to do in Istanbul, particularly in the event 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 undoubtedly 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.
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’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 be certain that to carve out a while to move right here, and it’s a great place to go to with older children too as they’ll study as they transfer across the completely different exhibitions.
Handle: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
23. Galataport
Galataport is certainly one of Istanbul’s latest points of interest, and it’s one of many high issues to see in Istanbul in the event you’re searching for good views and meals. It’s principally a big purchasing heart, nevertheless it provides the perfect views over to Asia and throughout the Golden Horn. It’s additionally an ideal 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’ll be able to head there within the early night, get pleasure from 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 Road in Beşiktaş
There’s no higher technique to begin the day than with a hearty breakfast, and Turkey is aware of how one can do breakfast in type. Recognized 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 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 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 vital 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 ft a favor by doing this and can get a great view of the road to see the place you may wish to double again to.
Nevertheless, the tram may be very small, and there aren’t many seats so you need 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 thought for its wealthy historical past and tradition. Nevertheless, it’s additionally filled with modern-day enjoyable and a number of the greatest meals on the planet.
November to April are glorious 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% value visiting. Historical past, tradition, nightlife, purchasing, 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 permit 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 observe widespread sense and take common security precautions comparable to not strolling with giant 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 essentially 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 permit you to see some of Istanbul, however per week will provide you with a greater probability of seeing extra.
Sure, you’ll be able to drink alcohol in Istanbul.
Sure, you’ll be able to kiss in Turkey, however keep in mind that it is a Muslim nation, so overtly kissing on the street might direct some stares your method 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 vary into lengthy trousers/pants, or an extended skirt.
Istanbul is as low cost or costly as you need it to be. There are a lot of methods to chop prices, comparable 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 smart 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 house slightly than strolling.
Sure, a lady 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 needed to return. I hope that’s the case for you, and with this record of issues to do in Istanbul, you’ve received loads to work by.
Whereas Istanbul won’t be the capital metropolis, it’s actually the largest by far, and I imagine 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 house to the whole lot you might presumably search for in a vacation spot, and a lot extra.
