There are such a lot of issues to do in Istanbul, Turkey to maintain even probably the most fidgety individual occupied. There’s one factor you might want to know, nonetheless: whenever you’re sightseeing in Istanbul, you possibly can overlook about style. Critically, you want snug sneakers since you’re going to need to preserve exploring!
Your toes 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 are such a lot of locations to go to in Turkey, however Istanbul needs to be one among my favorites – it by no means disappoints.
There’s no metropolis on earth fairly like Istanbul; with a historical past that dates again over 2500 years, you possibly can anticipate finding loads of outdated buildings and ruins right here, however there’s a lot extra to this metropolis than its previous.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 big metropolis – it’s huge – so that you’ll must know one of the 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 publish, I’ll share all my secrets and techniques, so you can begin planning your time.
SEE ALSO: 15 Greatest Issues To Do in Fethiye.
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, there are so many locations to decide on from, and I am going again with my husband each winter for a minimum of just a few weeks. I’m fortunate that he has household there and, being Turkish, he is aware of the realm inside out and might present me one of the best spots.
The issue with not realizing the very first thing about Istanbul is you can simply get misplaced and miss one of the best bits. Istanbul’s sights are plentiful, however they can be fairly a distance away from one another. That’s why this record 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 certainly 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 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 take pleasure in merely strolling round and absorbing the serene environment; it’s fairly uncommon to really feel that manner in such an enormous metropolis. After all, this is without doubt one of the hottest locations to go to in Istanbul, so a guided tour will allow you to perceive extra. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
2. Dolmabahçe Palace
Probably the most jaw-dropping sights in Istanbul is Dolmabahçe Palace – a spot so opulent it’ll take you a second to get your head round it. You may’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 utterly forgot about my digicam.
This was the previous house of Atatürk, the founding father of the Turkish Republic, but it surely 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.
Handle: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
3. Topkapı Palace
Topkapı Palace was the primary headquarters of the Ottoman Empire, and it’s probably the greatest issues to see in Istanbul. Constructed in 1465, it’s one of the vital standard issues to see in Istanbul. I’d suggest you go as early within the morning as you possibly can because the queues construct up fairly shortly 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 beautiful as the inside, however with gold plated actually every part, and superb views over the Bosphorus, it is a place that can transport you again in time. You could possibly additionally contemplate 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’ll be too! You may select a cruise with dinner or simply keep on with sightseeing, however testing town from the water is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Istanbul at evening.
You’ll discover a number of totally different firms providing cruises, however pre-booking takes the effort away. When you go right down to Karaköy ferry terminal or Eminönü you’ll see a number of distributors promoting journeys however choosing the proper one could be worrying whenever you’re placed on the spot they usually’re all attempting to get your consideration at you directly. Click on right here for extra data and to guide.
Handle: Most excursions go away from Karaköy ferry terminal: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Genelev, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
5. Procuring at Cevahir AVM
When you’re searching for issues to do in Istanbul for teenagers, particularly on a wet day, I’d suggest heading to Cevahir AVM. It is a big 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.
When you go to in December, you’ll see the 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 the 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
Probably the most 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 lovely and oldest buildings in Istanbul, courting again to 537 AD. Hagia Sophia sits immediately reverse the Blue Mosque and the sq. is colorfully adorned with flowers all yr spherical.
It’s free to enter Hagia Sophia, nonetheless, contributions are welcomed. That is one other functioning mosque, so bear in mind that it’s going to shut for a short while throughout prayer. A guided tour is at all times really useful that can assist 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 stunned me in all one of the best methods doable. This is without doubt one of the high vacationer sights in Istanbul, but it surely’s deep underground, so until you realize about it, it may be simple to overlook. Don’t let that occur – that is one among my favourite issues to do round Istanbul.
Constructed within the yr 532, it was initially designed to make sure water provide to Topkapı Palace, but it surely’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 alternative. 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 numerous open, inexperienced areas in Istanbul, however Gulhane Park is without doubt one of the greatest and could be discovered immediately behind Topkapı Palace. I believe this is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Istanbul for households as a result of the broad 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 lovely area with benches, statues, and plenty of wildlife in the event you look intently. There’s additionally a restaurant to purchase tea, espresso, gentle 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 am going. That is really simply public transport, as folks go from one facet to the opposite for work and common life, but it surely’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’ll sit outdoors, however positively take a coat (even in the event you suppose it’s heat) – these Bosphorus winds could 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 buying is the Grand Bazaar. Constructed again in 1455, this is without doubt one of the oldest and largest coated markets on the planet. It’s a maze of retailers that calls for a minimum of a few hours to navigate however the environment is a lot enjoyable.
That is excessive on my record of locations to go to in Istanbul each time as a result of I at all times handle to seize some bargains. Nonetheless, in the event you’re visiting with youngsters, 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
When 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 coated market, though a lot smaller than the Grand Bazaar and simpler to navigate. It’s a brilliant colourful place and is a great spot for images.
Right here, you should buy 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.
Handle: 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 irrespective of the time of day or evening. There are various beer locations right here, but it surely’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.
When you’re consuming, you’ll discover musicians shifting across the avenue serenading prepared clients. It may be fairly loud, but it surely’s a extremely satisfying 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 house to meals and merriment all yr spherical. You may also go to the attractive Ortaköy mosque, which dates again to 1854. When you’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 at all times take pleasure in grabbing a kumpir (jacket potato) from one of many outside stalls. You may pile it excessive with as many toppings as you suppose you possibly can handle and it’s a well-known dish from this a part of town. Oh, and waffles! Don’t overlook the waffles.
Handle: Ortaköy, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
14. Galata Tower
I couldn’t presumably miss Galata Tower off of this record. This big tower has regarded 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 provide spectacular sights proper over to the Asian facet and past.
When you’re terrified of heights, this won’t be in your record of issues to do in Istanbul, however you possibly can nonetheless go to and take photographs from floor degree. While you’re strolling across the high of the tower, it may get crowded, and also you’ll must stroll in a single file. When 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 beautiful large hill to Süleymaniye Mosque but it surely’s greater than well worth the effort. The mosque advanced itself is just beautiful in structure, and it’s such a peaceable and serene space. The views over the Golden Horn are breathtaking.
This is without doubt one of the greatest Istanbul actions for adults, and there are some good cafes across the mosque which provide an excellent 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, contemplate taking a information with an area. Click on right here for particulars and to guide.
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 possibly can see the entire metropolis and seize among the greatest images doable. It’s an actual delight in the summertime, however equally as lovely when it’s snowed.
You could possibly 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 facet, and is primarily standard with locals. I like watching the sundown from right here, however even in the event you don’t keep for therefore lengthy, it’s probably the greatest 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 specific allegiance to an Istanbul soccer workforce, 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 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 count on to take pleasure in it as a lot as I did!
The crowds is usually a little intense, and there’s a whole lot of shouting, however you simply must waft and take part. I went to see a Champions League match, and I had a lot enjoyable. I’d positively suggest catching a sport in the event you can.
Handle: RAMS Park, Huzur Mh., Metin Oktay Caddesi, 34386 Sarıyer/İstanbul
18. Eat Road Meals
Whereas making your manner 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 you need to strive as many as you possibly can, however avenue meals is the best way to go. For me, Istanbul is the road meals metropolis of goals, and there’s an virtually infinite quantity of issues to strive.
The truth is, I’d say this is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Istanbul. You may strive pide, kokoreç, kumpir, börek, halka tatlısı, balık ekmek, doner, köfte, gözleme, the record goes on. I are inclined to eat an excessive amount of on the go after which don’t need dinner, however there are such a lot of scrumptious treats round, that it’s arduous to say no.
Handle: Cihannüma, Beşiktaş Cd., 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
19. Rumeli Fortress
As soon as upon a time, Istanbul was consistently underneath 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 citadel immediately reverse the Asian facet. Right now, visiting Rumeli Fortress is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Istanbul.
The explanation 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 probably the greatest 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, probably the greatest 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 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 excellent 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 must 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 a whole lot of legends about why this tower is caught in the course of an islet by itself, however both manner, it’s one of the vital well-known sights within the metropolis.
You may 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 personal 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 one among 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 certain that to carve out a while to go right here, and it’s a really perfect place to go to with older youngsters too as they’ll study as they transfer across the totally different exhibitions.
Handle: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
23. Galataport
Galataport is one among Istanbul’s latest sights, 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 mainly a big buying heart, but it surely affords one of the 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 various 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, 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 technique to begin the day than with a hearty breakfast, and Turkey is aware of easy methods to do breakfast in fashion. Recognized 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 an entire avenue 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 they usually additionally provide superb desserts, together with chocolate-covered crepes.
Handle: Kahvalti Sokak, Sinanpaşa, Çelebi Oğlu Sk. No:26, 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
25. Nostalgic İstiklal Caddesi Tram
Probably the most 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 positively do your toes a favor by doing this and can get view of the road to see the place you would possibly need to double again to.
Nonetheless, the tram may be very small, and there aren’t many seats so you need to count on 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. Nonetheless, it’s additionally filled with modern-day enjoyable and among 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 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, 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 might suggest staying for a minimum of every week. It will mean you can see extra comfortably, with out having to hurry round.
Istanbul is as secure as some other 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 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 mean you can see some of Istanbul, however every week provides you with a greater likelihood 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 brazenly kissing on the street might direct some stares your manner and draw some undesirable consideration.
Sure, you possibly can put on shorts in Istanbul, nonetheless, if you wish to go to a mosque, you will want 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 avenue 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, nonetheless, as with every giant metropolis, it isn’t sensible to stroll round by yourself in quiet locations or showcase any of your valuables. When you’re across the Taksim/Beyoğlu space, I’d advise catching a taxi house relatively 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 so much to work by way of.
Whereas Istanbul won’t be the capital metropolis, it’s actually the most important 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 every part you could possibly presumably search for in a vacation spot, and a lot extra.
