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Istanbul Travel Guide: Discover the Two-Continent Metropolis

Discovering istanbul: your gateway to history, culture, and adventure.

Welcome to the ultimate Istanbul travel guide, your reliable resource for planning an unforgettable trip to the city that straddles two continents. This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about exploring Istanbul, from the best time to visit the most scrumptious dishes to try. Explore Turkey with One Nation Travel’s Turkey tour packages , featuring the captivating city of Istanbul.

Why Istanbul?

Istanbul, a city where East meets West, is a melting pot of cultures, a testament to numerous civilizations, and an amalgamation of the past and the present. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art enthusiast, or a shopaholic, Istanbul never fails to charm and astonish with its vibrant blend of cultural elements, making it an ideal destination for various travel intents.

Getting There

Istanbul is well connected to the rest of the world through two major international airports – Istanbul Atatürk Airport and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. Numerous airlines operate regular flights to Istanbul from major cities worldwide, ensuring your journey is smooth and hassle-free.

Getting Around Istanbul

Navigating Istanbul is a breeze thanks to its efficient public transportation system. From trams and metros to buses and ferries, there are numerous ways to explore this sprawling city. One of the most convenient ways to travel is by using an Istanbulkart, a rechargeable smart card valid for almost all means of public transport.

Places to Visit in Istanbul

From the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque and the historic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar and the majestic Topkapi Palace, Istanbul teems with must-visit sights. No trip to Istanbul is complete without a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, where Europe and Asia meet, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.

Istanbul Tours & Activities

A well-curated Istanbul tour package can make your Istanbul visit hassle-free and more enjoyable. Various tour operators offer comprehensive packages that cover the city’s top attractions, ensuring you don’t miss out on any essential experiences.

Foods to Try in Istanbul

Istanbul is a gastronomic paradise, boasting a rich culinary heritage. Do not leave without trying the city’s signature dishes such as the savory “döner kebab”, the delectable “baklava”, and the iconic Turkish tea and coffee.

Shopping in Istanbul

The city offers a unique shopping experience, from the traditional markets like the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar teeming with colorful ceramics, textiles, and spices, to modern malls that offer international brands.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Istanbul are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. However, Istanbul has a charm that can be enjoyed all year round.

Recommended Local Istanbul Tour Company: One Nation Travel

Discover the best of Istanbul and Turkey with One Nation Travel’s expertly crafted tour packages. From the iconic landmarks of Istanbul to the natural wonders of Cappadocia and Pamukkale, we offer a range of options to suit every traveler’s needs. With local guides and customizable itineraries, your perfect Turkish adventure awaits.

Top Experiences & Tours in Istanbul

• Historic Areas: Guided tours of Sultanahmet District’s architectural marvels.
• Culinary Exploration: Food tours that sample the best of Turkish and Ottoman cuisine.
• Cultural Shows: Live performances of Turkish music and dances.
• Art and Craft: Workshops on Turkish carpet weaving or pottery.

Bridging Worlds in Istanbul

Istanbul, a vibrant mosaic of cultures and histories, offers more than just a gateway between Europe and Asia—it provides a passage through time. As you wander from one continent to another, let the magic of this eternal city inspire tales of your own to tell.

Top 3 Favorite Tours of Turkey

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The First-Timer’s Istanbul Travel Guide

Posted on Last updated: May 2, 2024

EDITOR’S NOTE: Please be advised that this Istanbul travel guide hasn’t been updated in 2024. Prices and travel guidelines may no longer be accurate so it’s important that you verify any information before proceeding.

Istanbul is incredible. It’s one of the most awe-inspiring cities we’ve been to thus far. Home to breathtaking architecture, delicious food, and some of the warmest, most genuinely hospitable people we’ve ever met on our travels, it’s a city we would love to visit again and again.

If you’re looking to visit Istanbul for the first time, then I hope this comprehensive travel guide can help you plan your trip. It will tell you everything you need to know from where to stay, which sights to see, and of course, what food to eat.

We enjoyed Istanbul so much that we could honestly see ourselves living there. Spend just one day in this captivating city and I won’t be surprised if you feel the same way too.

VISIT ISTANBUL QUICK LINKS

This travel guide to Istanbul is long. For your convenience, I’ve compiled links to hotels, tours, and other services here.

Top-rated hotels in Sultanahmet, the most convenient area to stay for first-time visitors to Istanbul.

• Luxury: Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Midrange: Romance Istanbul Hotel Boutique Class
• Budget: Erenler HoTeL & HosTeL
• Sightseeing Tour: Half-Day Highlights Guided Tour
• Food Tour: Istanbul Food and Culture Tour: Taste of 2 Continents
• Museum Pass: Istanbul 5-Day Guided Museum Pass

OTHER SERVICES

• Turkey E-Visa
• Travel Insurance with COVID cover (WFFF readers get 5% off )
• Airport Transfers: Istanbul Airport | Sabiha Gökçen Airport
• Wifi Device / eSIM

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GUIDE TABLE OF CONTENTS

Istanbul travel restrictions.

Because of the current global situation, Istanbul travel guidelines have been changing often. Our friends at Booking.com created a website that lists detailed information on travel restrictions around the globe.

Before doing any serious trip planning, be sure to check Booking.com for information on travel restrictions to Turkey. If you do decide to visit Istanbul, then it’s strongly recommended that you get travel insurance with COVID coverage.

HOW TO APPLY FOR AN E-VISA TO TURKEY

Applying for an e-visa to Turkey is easy. Everything is done online and you can have your visa in minutes. You can apply for one yourself on evisa.gov.tr or through iVisa.com .

ISTANBUL AT A GLANCE

Istanbul is the economic, financial, and cultural center of Turkey. It’s also the country’s biggest city with a population of just over 15 million people, making it one of the largest cities in Europe and the world. For those reasons, it’s natural to assume that Istanbul is Turkey’s capital but it isn’t. That distinction goes to Ankara.

Located on both sides of the Bosphorus, what makes Istanbul geographically interesting is that it’s one of a handful of cities that straddles two continents. The western half of the city is situated in Europe while the eastern half is located in Asia.

The Asian side is largely residential so you’ll find most of the city’s major attractions clustered within two districts on the European side – Sultanahmet and Beyoğlu. First-time visitors to the city will be spending much of their time in those two districts.

Istanbul is a city steeped in history and culture so there is much to see and do there. From its Byzantine churches adorned with mosaics and frescoes to its magnificent mosques decorated by sky-high minarets, Istanbul is a city that will mesmerize you at every turn.

BEST TIME TO VISIT ISTANBUL

Spring (March-May) is the best time to visit Istanbul, followed by Autumn (September-November) . Crowds are thinner and the weather is moderate during both seasons, though Autumn sees more rain than Spring.

We went in early November and the weather was near perfect. I was comfortable walking around in a light jacket with just a t-shirt inside. It was overcast on a couple of days but it never rained.

Fans of tulips — which are originally from Turkey, not Holland — will be pleased to know that the International Tulip Festival is held in April with millions of tulips in bloom throughout the city.

MAR-MAY: This is the best time to visit Istanbul. The weather is relatively mild and dry and the city will be awash with color. The next time we visit Istanbul, it will definitely be in April to take part in the tulip festival.

JUNE-AUG: Apart from being the busiest time of the year, June till August can get pretty hot and humid — up to 28°C/82°F. Lines are at their longest and prices at their peak during this time.

SEPT-NOV: Like Spring, Autumn is a great time to visit Istanbul. The weather is similar although it does get rainier in the Fall as described.

DEC-FEB: December till February is low season in Istanbul. It’s the wettest and coldest time of the year so be sure to dress appropriately. It can get rainy and snowy with temperatures dropping down to a frigid 3°C/37°F.

Climate: Annual Monthly Weather in Istanbul

Check out holiday-weather.com for more on the weather in Istanbul . To make it easier for you, I’ve created average temperature and annual rainfall graphs below. Suggested months to visit are colored in orange.

Average Temperature

Annual Rainfall

TRAVELING TO ISTANBUL

International flights will be arriving at either Istanbul (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Assuming you’ll be staying in either Sultanahmet or Taksim (Beyoğlu), here’s how you get to both areas from either airport.

From Istanbul Airport

To sultanahmet.

BY HAVAIST SHUTTLE: One of the cheapest ways to get to Sultanahmet from Istanbul Airport is by Havaist Shuttle (67TL), but it isn’t the easiest. At this time, there’s no direct route so you’ll need to catch the HVIST-12 line to Beyazit Square. From there, you can take a tram to Sultanahmet (5 mins). Please note that you cannot pay for the shuttle with cash, only credit or debit card. Please refer to this website for more information.

BY TAXI: A taxi to Sultanahmet from Istanbul Airport will run you at least 320TL.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: A private transfer from Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet will cost at least 45 Euros. You can book it in advance through Get Your Guide .

BY HAVAIST SHUTTLE: This is the easiest way to get to Taksim from Istanbul Airport. For 90TL, you can take the HVIST-16 line all the way to its last stop which is close to Taksim Square. Please note that you cannot pay for the shuttle with cash, only credit or debit card. You can refer to this website for more information.

BY TAXI: A taxi from Istanbul Airport to Taksim will cost you at least 260TL.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: A private transfer from Istanbul Airport to Taksim will cost at least 19 Euros per person. You can book it in advance through Bookaway .

From Sabiha Gökçen Airport

BY HAVABUS: Take the Havabus bound for Taksim (37.50TL). From Taksim, you can either take a taxi to Sultanahmet or walk to the Taksim metro station and take the Taksim-Kabatas funicular to Kabatas (5 mins). From Kabatas, you can take the tram to Sultanahmet station (25 mins). You can refer to this website for more information.

Alternatively, you can take the Havabus from the airport to Kadıköy (28TL). Once in Kadıköy, walk to the Şehir Hatları dock and take the ferry to Eminönü (30 mins). From there, you can either take a taxi to your hotel in Sultanahmet or walk to the Eminönü station and take the tram to Sultanahmet (15 mins). You can check this website for more information.

BY TAXI: A taxi from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet will cost you around 210TL.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: A private transfer from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Sultanahmet will cost at least 45 Euros. You can book it in advance through Get Your Guide .

BY HAVABUS: Take the Havabus bound for Taksim (37.50TL). From there, you can walk or take a taxi to your hotel. You can refer to this website for more information.

BY TAXI: A taxi from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim will cost you around 210TL.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: A private transfer from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Taksim will cost at least 22 Euros per person. You can book it in advance through Bookaway .

Things to Remember

• If you’ll be taking public transportation in Istanbul, then you can save on the fare by purchasing an Istanbulkart. Jump to the TRAVEL TIPS section of this guide for more information.
• There are countless hotels in Istanbul. If you’ll be taking a taxi, then it’s best that you have a printout or screenshot of your hotel’s complete address and telephone number to show the driver.

*Approximate taxi fares and travel times indicated above were derived from the Istanbeautiful website.

This Istanbul travel guide assumed you’ll be arriving by plane, but there may be others ways of getting there depending on where you are. You can check Bookaway or use the widget below to find route options available to you.

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY

Turkey’s unit of currency is the Turkish Lira (TL) .

You can exchange currency at popular tourist areas like Sultanahmet, the Grand Bazaar, around Taksim Square and Istiklal Cadessi, etc. Rates are said to be best at the Grand Bazaar and Sultanahmet but the differences may be insignificant.

You won’t get the best rates at the airports so if you need to exchange currency to get into the city, then you should only change a small amount.

Another option is to withdraw TL from an ATM. It’s quicker than exchanging paper currency and the rates are comparable, some say even better.

Just be sure to contact your bank before your trip as they may have to activate it for overseas use. In my experience, my card works in some machines but not in others. I didn’t have any problems anywhere in Turkey.

NOTE: Some ATM machines may ask if you want to proceed “with or without conversion”. Always proceed WITHOUT conversion so your local bank does the conversion for you. Proceeding “with conversion” authorizes the foreign bank operating the ATM to do the conversion, usually at very poor rates. According to this article, the difference between rates can be as high as 10% or more .

BEST AREAS TO STAY IN ISTANBUL

Based on what we learned from our trip, there are two ideal places to stay in Istanbul for first-time visitors — Sultanahmet and Taksim (Beyoğlu) .

I’ve created the color-coded map below to help you understand where these recommended neighborhoods are. Click on the link for an interactive version of the map. (Please note that marked areas are approximations only)

BLUE – Sultanahmet RED – Taksim (Beyoglu)

SULTANAHMET

The Sultanahmet area is where most of the major tourist sites are located. If you’re traveling to Istanbul for the first time and looking to visit its top tourist attractions, then there’s no better place to stay than Sultanahmet. Here are a few top-rated hotels in Sultanahmet:

You can check these sites to search for more hotels in the Sultanahmet area: Booking.com | Agoda .

TAKSIM (BEYOGLU)

If you want a more contemporary side to Istanbul whilst still having easy access to the Sultanahmet area, then Beyoğlu around Taksim Square may be the better choice.

It’s home to the popular shopping street of Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue) as well as a number of trendy bars and clubs. It’s just a funicular and tram ride away to Sultanahmet making it ideal for first-time visitors as well. Check out these top-rated hotels in Taksim:

• Luxury: Pera Palace Hotel
• Midrange: Hammamhane
• Budget: Hostel Le Banc

You can check these sites to search for more hotels around Taksim Square: Booking.com | Agoda .

You can also book hotels and homestays in Istanbul using the handy map below.

TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN ISTANBUL

Listed below are ten of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. Most are located within the same general area so if you plan well, then you can visit them all in two or three days.

I’ll describe them briefly below but you can jump to the THINGS TO DO section for suggestions on how you can group them together to maximize your time. If you plan on visiting many of these attractions, then we strongly recommend getting an Istanbul tourist discount pass .

1. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

Hagia Sophia or Ayasofya is the most iconic structure in Istanbul. It was once regarded as the greatest church in Christendom and was at one point the largest church ever constructed until St Peter’s Basilica was built a thousand years later in Rome.

If you were to visit just one tourist attraction in Istanbul, then it should be Hagia Sophia. Check out my article on  Sultanahmet Square for more pictures and information.

Admission: FREE

2. Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet)

Hagia Sophia was breathtaking but for me, the Blue Mosque or Sultanahmet may have been even more striking. It’s an imposing sight with its many domes and six towering minarets.

Sultanahmet is grey from the outside but it gets its name from the tens of thousands of blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior.

3. Basilica Cistern

Featured in Dan Brown’s Inferno and the James Bond film  From Russia with Love , the Basilica Cistern is the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. It can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters (2,800,000 cu ft) of water and contains 336 marble columns each measuring 9 meters (30 ft) high.

Admission: 350TL

4. Topkapi Palace & Harem

Topkapi Palace was the court of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. It’s the second most visited attraction in the city, after Hagia Sophia.

Spread out over an area covering 700,000 sq m (7.5 million sq ft), there’s much to see at Topkapi Palace. Don’t miss its lavish Harem and its Treasury featuring precious gems and artifacts, none more impressive perhaps than the 86 carat Kasıkçı (Spoonmaker’s) Diamond.

Check out my article on  Topkapi Palace  for more pictures and information.

Admission: 500TL (Palace, Hagia Irene) / 650TL (Palace, Hagia Irene, Harem)

5. Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahce Palace is the largest palace in Turkey. It served as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1887 and from 1909 till 1922. Spread out over an area covering 11.1 acres, it contains 285 rooms, 46 halls, and 6 baths (hamam).

Admission: 650TL

6. Galata Tower

Galata Tower is an iconic landmark and the focal point of many photographs featuring the Bosphorus Strait and Beyoglu. Built in 1348, it served as a watchtower, a prison, and a naval depot, and stood for centuries as the tallest structure in Istanbul.

Admission: 700TL

7. Grand Bazaar

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. It consists of 61 covered streets and over 3,000 shops selling everything from lamps, carpets, jewelry, leather goods, ceramics, and souvenirs.

Both the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are within walking distance from Sultanahmet Square. Click on the link for a DIY walking tour of Istanbul’s Bazaars and Rüstem Pasha Mosque , a small but beautiful mosque near the Spice Bazaar.

You can easily visit the Grand and Spice Bazaars on your own but if you’d like to go on a guided tour, then you can book one through Get Your Guide. Having a guide will be helpful, especially at the Grand bazaar because it’s so big. Follow the link to check out Get Your Guide’s Grand and Spice Bazaar tours .

8. Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar

The Egyptian or Spice Bazaar is considerably smaller than the Grand Bazaar but if you love to cook, then you’ll probably spend even more time here.

The bazaar is home to about a hundred shops selling a colorful and aromatic assortment of spices, teas, nuts, dried fruit, and one of my favorite souvenir food items from Istanbul – lokum or Turkish delight.

9. Istanbul Archaeology Museums

The Istanbul Archaeology Museums is comprised of three museums – the Museum of the Ancient Orient, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the Archaeological Museum. With so much to see here, you could easily spend an entire day going through all three museums.

Check out my article on the  Istanbul Archaeology Museums  for more pictures and information.

Admission: 200TL

10. Chora Church (Kariye Museum) – Temporarily Closed (May 2022)

Compared to the other attractions on this list, Chora Church is out of the way but it’s well worth the effort. It’s home to what many believe to be the most stunning mosaics in Istanbul.

Check out my post on Chora Church (Kariye Museum) in Istanbul for more pictures and information. We visited on our own but if you’d like to go with a guide, then you can choose from one of several Get Your Guide tours that make stops at Chora Church.

THINGS TO DO IN ISTANBUL

1. visit sultanahmet’s top tourist attractions.

As described, Sultanahmet is home to the city’s most important attractions like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and the Blue Mosque. No first-time visit to Istanbul can be complete without visiting all of these places.

Travelers pressed for time can click on the link below to learn how you can visit these attractions in one day. But if you have more time, then it would be best to spread them out over two days.

You can check my post on the top attractions at Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul for more pictures and information, but here’s a quick rundown of what you a can find there:

Ayasofya: The most iconic site in Istanbul and once considered the greatest church in Christendom. Sultanahmet: One of the most striking mosques in Istanbul. Basilica Cistern: The largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. At Meydani: The former location of the Hippodrome of Constantinople. Ibrahim Pasa Palace: Museum featuring an impressive collection of calligraphy and rugs. Topkapi Palace: The court of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Istanbul Archaeology Museums: Museum of the Ancient Orient, Tiled Pavilion, Archaeological Museum.

We visited all these sites on our own but if you want a more in-depth experience, then you may want to go on a guided tour. Get Your Guide offers many different types of Istanbul tours , two of their most popular being the Highlights of Istanbul Tour and the Half-Day Highlights Guided Tour .

If you just want easy access to Istanbul’s top attractions without a guide, then another option would be to go on a Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour . Double-decker buses ply set routes that take you to many of the top attractions in Istanbul, and you can hop on and off as many times as you want for the duration of your pass. Barring traffic, it’s a convenient way to explore the city.

2. Walk Across Galata Bridge and Explore Beyoğlu and Dolmabahce Palace

Home to the iconic Galata Tower and Dolmabahce Palace as well as the city’s most fashionable boulevard in Istiklal Caddesi, the neighborhoods across Galata Bridge provide an interesting mix of old and new that’s different in feel to the time-honored charm of Sultanahmet.

If you enjoy shopping, good food, and perhaps a taste of Istanbul’s nightlife, then this is where you need to be. You can check my post on Galata Bridge, Beyoğlu, and Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul for more pictures and information, but here’s a quick rundown of what you a can find there:

Galata Bridge: Bridge connecting the north and south of European Istanbul. Galata Tower: Former watchtower offering great views of the city. Istiklal Caddesi: The heart of Beyoğlu and Istanbul’s most famous street. Dolmabahce Palace: The biggest palace in Turkey.

As described, you can visit all these sites on your own, but you may want to consider a guided tour as well, especially if you want to learn more about each place. Get Your Guide’s 2-Day Highlights of Istanbul Tour covers Dolmabahce Palace, Istiklal Street, and Taksim.

3. Take a Cruise on the Bosphorus with Şehir Hatları

Going on a scenic all-day cruise of the Bosphorus is one of Istanbul’s greatest pleasures according to many. They’re right.

Şehir Hatları is Istanbul’s official ferry company and offers three Bosphorus Cruises — Full, Short, and Moonlight (Evening). The Short Cruise takes you on a two-hour loop while the Full and Moonlight Cruises last for six hours and take you all the way to Anadolu Kavağı, which is the last dock before the Black Sea.

It’s a charming seaside town where you can have a delicious seafood lunch or dinner by the water. Check out my post on the Bosphorus Cruise with Şehir Hatları for more pictures and information.

You can easily book a Bosphorus cruise yourself at the ferry dock, but you can arrange for one in advance as well through Get Your Guide. They offer many variations of the Bosphorus cruise, some even bundled with onboard dinner and a show. Follow the link to check out Bosphorus cruise options on Get Your Guide.

Activity Duration: 2 or 6 hrs Cost: 65TL (Full), 32TL (Short)

4. Go on a Culinary Walk

Turkish cuisine is interesting. It’s colorful and nuanced and seems as diverse as the country’s landscape. Enjoy one meal at Ciya Sofrasi and you’ll see what I mean.

We did all our own food research but in hindsight, I would have loved to go on a food tour. I think Turkish cuisine is best appreciated (and understood) with the guidance of a knowledgeable local. Get Your Guide can help you with that.

5. Explore the Trendy Asian Side (Kadikoy)

With the majority of tourist attractions located on the European side, most first-time travelers to Istanbul don’t venture into the Asian side of the city. Had it not been for Çiya Sofrası and Walter’s Coffee Roastery, then we wouldn’t have gone there either.

Home to a maze of cafes, bars, restaurants, and some trendy neighborhoods, Kadikoy and the Asian side has much to offer and is well worth a day if you can spare it.

Photo by Kosmogenez via Shutterstock

Estimated Time to Spend: At least half a day

6. Take a Cooking Class

We haven’t done this in Turkey but we often take cooking classes whenever we travel. It’s a fun, hands-on way of learning about the local cuisine.

If you’re spending enough time in Istanbul and want to take a cooking class, then I suggest searching through Cookly. As far as I know, there isn’t a more comprehensive site for one-day cooking classes around the world than Cookly. Follow the link for a list of available cooking classes in Istanbul .

Photo by Cristina.A via Shutterstock

DAY TRIPS FROM ISTANBUL

We traveled around Turkey for two weeks so we went to most of these places on our own, but if you don’t have as much time, then you can visit them on day trips from Istanbul as well. Domestic flights are inexpensive and efficient in Turkey, making these day trips to other regions highly possible.

1. Princes’ Islands

The Princes’ Islands refers to a cluster of nine small islands off the coast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara.

Aside from their pristine pine forests and wooden Victorian cottages, what’s interesting about them is that all forms of motorized transport are banned on the islands. Bicycles and horse-drawn carriages are the default means of transportation, making them an interesting and relaxing place to visit on a day trip from Istanbul.

You can visit the Princes’ Islands by ferry from Kabatas or you can go on a guided tour .

Photo by Ann Stryzhekin via Shutterstock

2. Gallipoli & Troy

If you have an interest in military history, then you may want to spend the day exploring either Gallipoli or Troy.

The city of Troy was the legendary setting of the Trojan War while Gallipoli refers to a slender peninsula that was the main objective of several historical military campaigns that aimed to capture Istanbul.

Get Your Guide offers a few full-day tours to either Gallipoli or Troy. They offer joint tours as well but you’ll need two days to visit both.

Photo by ibrahim Kiroglu via Shutterstock

3. Cappadocia

This was one of the best things we did in our two weeks in Turkey. Cappadocia in Central Anatolia is best known for its unique moon-like landscape dotted with strange rock formations known as fairy chimneys. It’s a spectacular sight from the ground, but even more stunning when viewed from a hot air balloon.

Cappadocia was our favorite destination in Turkey so it’s well worth spending a few days there. But if you’re pressed for time, then you can book a day tour with flights through Get Your Guide .

4. Pamukkale

One of the things we loved most about Turkey was the diversity of its landscape. The moonscape of Cappadocia was the most stunning for us, but not far behind were the calcium travertines of Pamukkale . This ancient spa city is famous for its white terraces made of travertine, a sedimentary rock deposited by water from the seventeen naturally occurring hot springs in the area.

What makes this area even more interesting is that the travertines aren’t its only attraction. Walk to the top of the plateau to explore the ruins of Hierapolis then swim in the mineral-rich waters of Cleopatra’s Pool. At the bottom of this picturesque tree-lined pool are Roman marble columns dating back to the 2nd century BC.

Pamukkale is often visited on a day trip between cities, so going on a day trip from Istanbul is perfect. Get Your Guide offers a 1-day tour of Pamukkale and Hierapolis with flights.

We visited many ruins in Turkey and Aphordisias was by far the most beautiful and well-preserved.

Photo by Suksamran1985 via Shutterstock

Ephesus in Selçuk-Izmir is one of the most visited attractions in Turkey. Built in the 10th Century BC, this ancient city was a key seaport that was once the center of trade and commerce in the ancient world as well as being a hub for early Christianity. We visited several ruins throughout the country and Ephesus was the biggest and most impressive.

We spent a few days in Selçuk to fully explore the area, but you can visit on a 1-day tour from Istanbul as well. This Ephesus day tour with flights from Get Your Guide will take you to Ephesus and Meryem Ana Evi, the final home of the Virgin Mary.

TURKISH FOOD GUIDE

Turkish cuisine is considered one of the world’s greatest because of its diversity, long history, and the legacy left behind by an imperial kitchen. It seemed that every region we visited had something interesting and delicious to offer.

Check out our articles on Turkish food and Istanbul street food for suggestions on what dishes and drinks to look for in Turkey.

WHERE TO EAT IN ISTANBUL

Being such a popular tourist destination, Istanbul is home to a dizzying number of restaurants. From traditional Turkish restaurants to fish restaurants to healthy restaurants that serve vegan and vegetarian food , there’s no shortage of good food to be had in Istanbul.

To help you narrow it down and avoid the tourist traps, we’ve put together this list of 25 of the best restaurants in Istanbul .

25 may still be too many for some travelers so we’ve listed some of our favorites below.

1. Beşiktaş Çıtır Pide Lahmacun Salonu

Kebabs and durum are among my favorite dishes to eat in Istanbul. On our last trip, we probably tried over ten kebab shops but my favorite was Besiktas Citir. Not only does this restaurant serve great kebabs and wraps, but they also make terrific pide and lahmacun.

Located in Besiktas district, Beşiktaş Çıtır Pide Lahmacun Salonu is a great restaurant to visit before or after going to Dolmabahce Palace.

2. Ulaş Balıkçılık

Being a uniquely located city with shores long the Black Sea, the Sea of Marmara, and the Bosphorus Strait, fresh fish is abundant in Istanbul no matter what time of year you go.

Like kebab shops, seafood restaurants are a dime a dozen in Istanbul but our favorite in Beyoglu district is Ulas Balikcilik. It’s a small neighborhood seafood restaurant in Cihangir that serves fresh fish dishes – like these sea bass skewers – at a fraction of the price you’d pay at touristy restaurants.

3. Susam Cafe

Cihangir is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Istanbul. It’s a hilly residential area in Beyoglu district with many interesting restaurants and cafes.

Of all the restaurants we visited in the area, Susam Cafe was probably my favorite. It’s a neighborhood cafe that offers a wide range of breakfast dishes, comfort food, pasta, and vegetarian options.

4. Kumin Vegan Lezzetler

The vegetarian and vegan game is strong in Istanbul, especially on the Asian side. We visited many restaurants that offer healthy options but one of our favorites was Kumin Vegan Lezzetler, a cute vegan restaurant located in the Rasimpasa neighborhood of Kadikoy.

If you’re a vegan or vegetarian or simply enjoying eating healthier meals, then you’ll definitely want to visit this restaurant.

I asked a friend from Turkish Munchies for restaurant recommendations and one of the places he suggested was Baylan, a patisserie that’s been open since 1925. They serve many delicious cakes and desserts but what they’re really known for is kup griye – a heavenly dessert made with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, creme chantilly, ground pistachios, and toffee.

Baylan invented kup gryie so if you’re fond of desserts, then you’ll definitely want to try this. It’s unbelievably delicious.

POINTS OF INTEREST IN ISTANBUL

For your convenience, I’ve created this map so you get a better sense of where everything is. Click on the link for an interactive version of the map. Most of the places recommended in this guide are pinned on this map.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN ISTANBUL

The Istanbul public transportation system is diverse. It’s comprised of metro lines, trams, funiculars, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Unlike city rail systems where you pay the total fare at the start regardless of how many transfers you need to make to get to your destination, transfers are charged separately in Istanbul. A single ride costs 20TL but you can get discounts if you purchase multi-ride tickets. You can check the IETT website for pricing information.

If you plan on taking the public transportation system often, then the Istanbulkart as described in the TRAVEL TIPS section would be an excellent investment. You’ll pay just 9.90TL for the first ride and save on transfer costs as well.

As advised in the THINGS TO DO section of this post, a great way to get around Istanbul to see its top attractions is by Big Bus Tour . It’ll take you to many of its popular attractions and you can get on and off as often as you like for the duration of your pass.

If you like visiting places on your own without a guide, then I think it’s definitely worth it.

HOW MANY DAYS TO STAY / ISTANBUL ITINERARY

Istanbul is a fascinating city with lots to see and do. We stayed five nights and it still didn’t feel long enough. At the very least, you should allow yourself four full days. It’ll be a bit rushed but four days will give you enough time to see the major sights.

For a more comfortable pace with room for spontaneity, I’d say six full days would be perfect, even longer if you can. Here’s a 4-day Istanbul itinerary to help you plan your trip.

ISTANBUL TRAVEL TIPS

1. plan your trip with sygic travel.

If you enjoy trip planning, then you’re going to find Sygic Travel useful. It allows you to plot points of interest on a map so you can see exactly where they are in relation to one another. That way you can group places by day and come up with an efficient itinerary.

Check out my article on the Sygic Travel app for more information. You can download it for free on iOS or Android .

2. Rent a Pocket Wifi Device

Can you go a day in your normal life without access to the internet? Pretty hard right? Now imagine not having a wifi connection in a foreign country. Not being able to do research would make any trip more stressful and less enjoyable. It’s for this reason why we never go anywhere now without renting a pocket wifi device first. Click on the link to rent a pocket wifi device through Get Your Guide .

3. Get an Istanbul Tourist Discount Pass

The 5-day Istanbul Museum Pass was perfect for us but there are a few other discount cards you can get depending on what you want to do in Istanbul. Here’s a quick breakdown of each.

Istanbul Museum Pass

For 700TL, the Istanbul Museum Pass gives you access to most of the sites mentioned in this guide along with a few others within 120 hours after its first use. Admission to Topkapi Palace and its Harem alone will set you back 650TL.

The Istanbul Museum Pass will save you a lot of time as well since you won’t have to line up to buy tickets at every site. Some of these museums are hugely popular, especially during peak seasons, so lines can get pretty long.

Istanbul Tourist Pass

If you want something more comprehensive than the Museum Pass, then you may want to look into getting an Istanbul Tourist Pass. It’s considerably more expensive but it’ll cover almost everything you’ll want to do in Istanbul.

Available in 3-, 5-, and 7-day passes, it’ll entitle you to Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace guided tours, a Bosphorus cruise, Big Bus tour tickets, a Whirling Dervish ceremony, and more. It’ll even provide you with unlimited internet access and one-way transfers from the airport.

Follow the link for more information and to purchase an Istanbul Tourist Pass from Get Your Guide.

Istanbul 5-Day Guided Museum Pass

If entry into these attractions isn’t enough for you, then you may be interested in a 5-Day Guided Museum Pass. It’ll give you access to Istanbul’s top tourist attractions on guided tours.

Follow the link for more information and to purchase an Istanbul 5-Day Guided Museum Pass from Get Your Guide.

4. Know When Museums are Closed

Some of Istanbul’s museums and attractions are closed one day of the week. Know when they close so you can plan your trip accordingly.

• Dolmabahce Palace — Monday
• Topkapi Palace — Tuesday
• Grand Bazaar — Sunday

5. Save Money with an Istanbulkart

If you’ll be staying in Istanbul for more than a couple of days and taking public transportation often, then you may want to get an Istanbulkart. It’s a convenient transport card that’ll save you on the cost of public transportation.

With an Istanbulkart, you’ll pay just 9.90TL per transfer instead of the usual 15TL. Plus, you’ll save on the cost of transfers. The card is transferrable as well so you can use the same card for up to five people.

The card itself costs 60TL and you can buy it at major metro stations like the airport, Sultanahmet, or Eminönü. You’ll need to top it up before you can use it since the 60TL is just for the cost of the card. You can refer to the IETT and Istanbul Clues websites for more information.

6. Check for Istanbul Travel Vouchers

I purchase travel vouchers from many different websites. For Istanbul and Turkey, I like Get Your Guide the best as they have the widest selection of tours, activities, and other travel-related services. You can check out Klook as well.

7. Get Travel Insurance

Though we do get it more often now, travel insurance isn’t something we buy before every trip. Our credit cards give us basic coverage anyway so we only get extra travel insurance if we plan on doing anything that could cause us bodily harm, things like skiing or bungee jumping.

On this Turkey trip, we went horseback riding in Cappadocia so we did purchase travel insurance. Basically, if you plan on doing anything physical, then you may want to pick up a policy.

We get travel insurance from SafetyWing or Heymondo. They’re popular travel insurance companies used by many long-term travelers. You can follow the links to get a free quote from SafetyWing or Heymondo . Get 5% off on Heymondo by using our link.

8. Know When and How Much to Tip

Tipping is modest in Turkey, around 5-10% at inexpensive restaurants and 10-15% at fine dining establishments. For porters and bellhops, EUR 1 per bag should suffice. Taxi drivers aren’t usually given tips but you can round up to a convenient amount (ie 17.20TL to 18TL).

If you were happy with a tour, then a group tip of around EUR 10-15 will be appreciated. Keep in mind that this is the total tip from the entire group, not each individual. You can refer to this website for more information.

9. Bring the Right Power Adapter

Electrical outlets in Turkey are round so plugs are typically Type C or Type F. Be sure to bring the right power adapters for your devices. Electrical voltage is 230V.

I’m by no means an expert on Istanbul or Turkey but I do hope that this travel guide helps you plan your trip. I’m only sharing some of the things I learned from the time we spent there. If you have any suggestions, then please feel free to let us know in the comment section below.

Thanks for stopping by and have an awesome time exploring the mesmerizing city of Istanbul!

These are some of the things we brought with us to Istanbul. See what’s in our backpack for a complete list of our travel gear. (NOTE: The following links are Amazon and other affiliate links . )

This Istanbul travel guide contains affiliate links. We’ll earn a small commission if you make a booking at no additional expense to you. We only recommend products and services that we use ourselves and firmly believe in. We really appreciate your support as this helps us make more of these free travel guides. Thank you!

Found this article useful? Help us help other travelers by sharing it!

Friday 30th of December 2022

Great help with all the information provided , using some of your links to make bookings. Just wondering, as milked a beer, and can’t find prices on line, how much is a pint of local beer, in average bars in tourist areas

Thank you for all

Saturday 22nd of October 2022

Good tips. But I don't recommend Istanbul for a tour.

I landed on the night of 10/17/2022 at Istanbul Airport (IST). Before the flight, I purchased a transfer service through Booking.com for the transfer from the airport to the hotel, for 32 pounds sterling.

Upon arrival at the airport, I did not meet the driver at the agreed location (exit 13) and spoke with a driver who was there. I showed him the name and phone number of the person who was supposed to pick me up. He called then and on the other end of the line someone impersonated the driver who was supposed to pick me up, saying that there was a mistake and that I should make the ride with the one I had found. A price of 3590.00 Turkish Lira was placed and payment would be accepted by credit card. As I was very tired, it was late at night and I didn't know the rate of the Turkish lira, I accepted it. On leaving the airport, the local called a colleague to accompany the trip.

On the way, they stopped at the first ATM and I was forced to withdraw the money. At that moment, I saw that it was a coup and that my life was in danger. Upon arriving at the hotel, I took a photo of the license plate and asked the receptionists for help. I couldn't sleep that night.

The next morning I went to the tourist police station. I told him what had happened and the police officer only said that he would contact the owner of the vehicle and talk to him about returning the money.

On the night of 10/19/2022, a representative of the vehicle owner went to the hotel and the hotel manager brokered the contact and negotiation. The two, representative and manager, said it would only fit me 85.00 euros as there would be fees to cover. I paid the equivalent of 225.00 euros for the criminal race and received only 85 euros at the end. No policial report was registered. I was coerced and robbed. This is all completely absurd. Crime and impunity prevail here.

I hired a guide for a walking tour of the historic center, but he didn't show up. You receive less service than the amount paid at the hotel and they always try to overcharge you. There is a lot of opportunism and exploitation for the tourist.

Tourism is done with transparency, honesty and trust. I leave Istanbul sad and very disappointed. I don't recommend this city to anyone.

JB & Renée

Monday 31st of October 2022

I'm really sorry to hear about your bad experience in Istanbul Igor. While we've been fortunate to never experience anything negative, I can understand why your experiences would put you off to Istanbul. Hopefully, you can give it another chance in the future. All the best and safe travels.

Anand Keshav

Tuesday 8th of February 2022

Excellent Blog. Extremely useful. Thank a ton.

Friday 11th of February 2022

Happy to help Anand!

Tuesday 11th of May 2021

Thanks for this useful post. I want to do a cruise on the Bosphorus, there are so many choices, not sure which one to take but I found one, Bosphorus Sunset Cruise top-rated on trip advisor. Do you have any suggestions on that? I want to give it a try on this one bosphorustour.com Thanks for your feedback.

Wednesday 12th of May 2021

You're welcome Asley! I don't have personal experience with that company so I can't speak on it, but I did check their TripAdvisor reviews and they have 5 stars. I wouldn't have any reservations about them. Another place you can look is Get Your Guide. Just do a search for Bosphorus cruise to see what's available. Those are all vetted and many have ratings and reviews so you can choose the best one for you. Hope that helps!

Tuesday 20th of April 2021

Great info. The costs section does not appear to be accurate/updated: "This is also subjective but based on our experience, I’d say around 50TL for the day per person with drinks. Budget more if you plan on dining at fancier restaurants." 50TL is $6 per day. Am I missing something? We're headed there in September. Thanks -- Chris

Wednesday 25th of May 2022

@Chris, Did you end up going to Istanbul last year? Your comments about costs caught my eye, because even 75 TL per day (quoted by the host of website) is extremely low: currently only 4.50 usd per day. I know the economy is crazy right now, but is it really that cheap there? We are going in September. Also, was it amazing? ;^D

Thanks for pointing that out Chris. 50TL is indeed on the low side but not out of the question for people traveling on a budget. Current price for a durum is about 15TL and a lahmacun is around 10TL. We avoid overpriced touristy restaurants but 75TL would be a more comfortable number for the average traveler. I'll go ahead and update the guide. Enjoy Turkey!

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Home > 70+ Epic Things To Do In Istanbul, Turkey – Istanbul Travel Blog

70+ Epic Things To Do In Istanbul, Turkey – Istanbul Travel Blog

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Istanbul, Türkiye’s sprawling metropolis, is a city of endless discovery, where every corner offers a new adventure and a unique story. With my annual weeks-long sojourns to this vibrant city, I’ve curated a comprehensive Istanbul guide, revealing over 70 things to do in the city of Istanbul that cater to every interest and passion.

Whether you’re marveling at the grandeur of ancient monuments, sampling exquisite Turkish cuisine, or wandering through bustling bazaars, my local guide ensures you’ll capture the true essence of Istanbul.

Istanbul is a HUGE city. There is far too much to see and do here over the space of just one break, and no matter how much you think you can zip your way around and see the main sights , you’ll still find yourself missing out on several things you had on your list.

This is a city that has more history than perhaps anywhere else in the world. Once part of Greece and known as Constantinople, the Ottoman Empire based itself here for centuries, fighting war after war, battle after battle.

The buildings here are dripping in history, the streets have echoes of the past, and it’s a beautiful blend of old and new that you’ll struggle to find anywhere else on the planet. Of course, Istanbul is also the only city in the world to straddle two continents; half sits in Asia, and the other half in Europe , divided by t he mighty Bosphorus Strait , considered one of the most dangerous shopping lanes in the world, thanks to its endless twists and turns.

If you want to get the most out of Istanbul , you need a plan. It would be best if you also made peace with the fact that there is no way on this Earth you’re going to see everything . Some people visit Istanbul several times a year and haven’t seen everything!

With that in mind, let’s check out sights and experiences you should have on your list of must-dos . If you have extra time (unlikely), you can carry on your exploration.

First, let’s start with a massive, quick list of things you’ll love in Istanbul:

Book yourself one of our favorite Istanbul hotels , and get started on your adventure with these Istanbul tourist attraction ideas:

1. Catch a ferry to see the best views of the city and Bosphorus

2. Visit the Grand Bazaar to find souvenir shops , authentic spices, jewelry, carpets, and more

3. Take a tour of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to appreciate their grandeur

4. Explore the Basilica Cistern for a unique underground experience

5. Visit Spice Market (one of my favorite things to do when I rent an apartment) for amazing aromas and plenty of shopping opportunities

6. Try Turkish coffee for an unforgettable caffeine experience

7. Take in a local show at one of Istanbul’s many theaters or cinemas

8. Stroll along Istiklal Caddesi Avenue for shopping, eating, drinking, music, and more

9. Go to Taksim Square to connect with locals and soak up Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife

10. Spend an evening dining at one of Istanbul’s rooftop restaurants with incredible views

11. Have a picnic in Gülhane Park to take in some nature in the middle of this bustling city

12. Take advantage of Istanbul’s public transportation system for easy access around the city

13. Get up early to watch fishermen selling their catches at Eminönü market near the Galata Bridge

14. Visit the Hippodrome for a taste of Istanbul’s ancient history

15. Take a Bosphorus night boat tour, it is the best way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights light up

16. Check out the Istanbul Modern Art Museum to admire contemporary Turkish art

17. Attend a religious ceremony at one of Istanbul’s many mosques to experience local traditions and culture

18. Explore the Topkapı Palace to learn more about Ottoman rule in Türkiye

19. Visit Sulaimaniye Mosque, one of Istanbul’s oldest and most beautiful buildings

20. Join a guided food tour around Karaköy and Balat to sample some delicious traditional Turkish dishes

21. Hit up the Fındıklı-Karaköy pier for incredible views of both sides of the city across the Bosphorus Strait

22. Take a traditional Turkish bath at one of Istanbul’s historic hammams for an unforgettable experience

23. Ride the nostalgic Funicular from Taksim to Kabataş for a unique way to get around town

24. Try the street food – kokoreç, çiğ köfte and simit are all must-tries

25. Visit one of Istanbul’s many parks , they are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city

26. Explore Istanbul’s backstreets for hidden gems like vintage clothing stores and cozy cafes

27. Check out some of Istanbul’s lesser-known museums, such as The Rahmi M Koç Museum, Pera Museum, and Sakıp Sabancı Museum

28. Watch a Galatasaray football match to soak up some local sports culture

29. Admire the Chora Church, one of Istanbul’s oldest surviving Byzantine churches

30. Visit Eyüp Sultan Mosque, one of the most important Islamic religious sites in Turkey

31. Visit Yedikule fortress for amazing views of the old city walls

32. Enjoy a romantic sunset from Galata Bridge

33. Enjoy a delicious and authentic Turkish breakfast – try poğaça, gözleme, simit, and more!

34. Pass by Galata Tower for some great photo opportunities from the observation deck

35. Eat traditional Turkish ice cream – tastier than ever imagined!

36. Visit the Bebek district for stunning seaside views and an upscale dining experience

37. Experience an Islamic call to prayer at one of Istanbul’s many mosques

38. Check out one of Istanbul’s oldest synagogues, Neve Shalom

39. Go to the Maiden’s Tower for a postcard-perfect view of Istanbul

40. Enjoy a day at Ortaköy market, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs

41. Visit Karaköy Güllüoğlu Baklava shop for some of the best desserts in town

42. Try some delicious seafood at one of the city’s many fish restaurants

43. Take a ferry from Eminönü across the Bosphorus to explore the Asian side

44. Visit Çengelköy village on the Asian side for some fantastic views of Istanbul

45. Shop for unique Turkish rug designs at Cezayir Pasajı near Taksim Square

46. Check out the Balat district for a unique experience in one of Istanbul’s oldest neighborhoods

47. Explore the Beyoğlu neighborhood, home to galleries, best restaurants, and much more

48. Have some fun at Vialand Theme Park – there’s something for everyone!

49. Check out the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, home to some incredible artifacts

50. Spend an afternoon at Dolmabahçe Palace, one of Istanbul’s grandest places

51. Explore the Bosphorus and Golden Horn for fantastic views of the city

52. Visit the Süleymaniye Library for a peek into Istanbul’s rich literary culture

53. Try fresh fish sandwiches from the street stalls in Eminönü

54. Eat lahmacun (Turkish pizza) at one of the local restaurants in the Galata district

55. Browse through the old bookstores at Beyazıt Square for hidden gems and rare finds

56. Browse through Ağa Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most impressive Ottoman mosques

57. Walk along Galata Bridge for some fantastic views of both sides of the city

58. Pick up some authentic spices from one of Istanbul’s spice shops

59. Enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee with friends or family

60. Visit Çamlıca Hill for some great views over the city skyline

61. Visit Rumel ihisarı fortress to learn more about Istanbul’s history

62. Enjoy some live music at one of Istanbul’s many jazz clubs

63. Explore the city on foot – you never know what hidden gems you might find!

64. Go to Princes’ Islands (Adalar) for some picturesque views and great seafood restaurants

65. Take part in an old Ottoman tradition – smoking hookah in one

66. Eat Turkish delight – nom nom

67. Take a walking tour on the Asian side of Istanbul

Now, let’s dive into some of Istanbul’s best activities!

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Feed The Seagulls On The Ferry

The ferry ride between the European and Asian sides (or vice versa) is a rite of passage, but as much fun as the journey is, feeding the seagulls is a major highlight.

They’re huge, plentiful, and hungry! Buy a simit from the small cafe downstairs and break it into pieces, throwing it into the air – they’ll definitely catch it.

Blue Mosque

Sultanahmet is considered the ancient part of Istanbul ; you’ll find many of the significant historical sights here.

The Blue Mosque is iconic and one of the most beautiful buildings you’ll ever set your eyes on. Built in 1609, the mosque has six minarets, while most mosques have 2 or 4. The design inside will take your breath away, for sure.

However, the Blue Mosque is a working mosque and, therefore, a place of worship. This means you need to adhere to mosque etiquette and be respectful of anyone praying inside. Never stand in front of or walk in across anyone praying. Always cover your shoulders and legs, and wear respectful clothes. When going inside, everyone will need to remove their shoes, and women will need to cover their heads .

The mosque is closed during prayer time , and on Fridays, you’ll find this happens more frequently, as this is the Muslim holy day. It’s free to go inside, but donations are always welcome and will go towards the upkeep of this beautiful and incredibly historic building.

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Walk along the promenade in bebek.

Take the bus from Besiktas to Bebek and get off the bus just after Rumeli Fortress. Not only will you be able to take photos of the castle, but you can walk along the waterside promenade for miles; it’s such a scenic walk, and it’s so quiet compared to the hustle and bustle of the city.

You’ll pass by people fishing, drinking coffee, or simply walking hand in hand.

Bebek is the upmarket part of Istanbul, and if you keep walking, you’ll reach Sariyer, another affluent neighborhood where many Turkish TV shows are filmed. There are some great restaurants around here, not to mention many seafood spots to try.

Hagia Sophia

If you visit Blue Mosque, you should head to Hagia Sophia next. Another Istanbul, a must-see landmark in Sultanahmet, is directly opposite and dates back to 537 AD when it was first built as a church.

When the Ottomans took over, they changed Hagia Sophia into a mosque, and nowadays, it stands as a place where both religions sit side by side, with relics and monuments of both shown. The museum is simply stunning and a truly beautiful place to visit .

The only downside is that it can become quite busy, and the queue to get inside can be very long. In addition, there are parts where you can’t use your camera flash, so adhere to signs shown in both English and Turkish.

As of January 15th, 2024, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque has introduced a distinct policy for tourists and worshippers. If you’re visiting for cultural exploration, there’s now a 25 euro entry fee . This ticket grants you access to the gallery floor, where you can admire the sanctuary’s stunning Ottoman and Byzantine features, including the historic mosaics.

This new policy is all about balancing the preservation of this iconic site and enhancing the visitor experience, while ensuring that daily worship remains undisturbed.

Handy QR codes offer insights in 23 languages, making your visit both informative and enjoyable. For the latest updates and details, it’s a good idea to check out their official website . 

Basilica Cistern

If you’re someone who likes weird and wonderful experiences, Basilica Cistern is the one for you! Once inside, you’re actually going under Istanbul’s streets , down to where the main water supply for the royal palace was held. This is one of the oldest sites in Istanbul and dates back to Emperor Justinian’s times during the 6th century Byzantine era.

You’ll see many columns in carefully arranged lines, stones carved in the face of Medusa, and a strange atmosphere that you really won’t be able to get enough of.

Galataport, Karakoy

 Galataport has , in recent years, opened its doors, and it’s a top place to visit. In fact, you should definitely plan to spend at least half a day here, a full day, if you want to enjoy dinner in the evening.

Galataport is a waterside entertainment center that’s expanding by the day. With incredible views over the Bosphorus , thanks to the fact that it’s literally lapping at the center’s shores, you can check out the sunset from here and get some fantastic photographs. Aside from that, there are countless stores, cafes, bars, and restaurants, including a new Salt Bae restaurant from the owner of Nus’ret.

Dolmabahce Palace

If you love opulence, prepare to have your mind blown! Sitting on the banks of the Bosphorus in Dolmabahce/Besiktas, this palace almost bankrupted the Ottoman Empire, thanks to its sheer beauty and intricate design!

You’ll need to pay to go inside, but you are given a guided tour. You’ll learn about the history of the palace, which was the Ottoman Empire’s living quarters towards the end of their rule, the summer holiday spot for many European rulers, and the spot where Mustafa Kemal Ataturk died.

You can’t take your camera inside with you, but you can take photos of the outside and the palace grounds .

Rumeli Fortress

Past Ortakoy and on the road toward Bebek, you will find a huge Rumeli castle. Built to defend Istanbul (then Constantinople) from attacks, this castle is extremely famous and has been the filming site of many movies.

If you look over the Bosphorus toward Asia, you’ll see another castle directly opposite – both built for the same purpose.

A visit to the fortress is a great idea, and as long as you don’t mind walking up steps and hills, the view from the top is a true delight.

Çırağan Sarayı Palace – Ciragan Palace Kempinski

Çırağan Palace is among the prettiest palaces in Istanbul. There are many reasons we recommend you visit this palace; the most interesting reason we recommend a trip to this Istanbul palace is that here you have the opportunity to stay in this palace.

Çırağan Palace allows you to travel in time . This palace was built at a time when every Sultan wanted to live in his own house instead of his parent’s home.

You can experience things that even the Sultan could not experience in this palace, built during Sultan Abdulaziz’s reign. Sultan Suite is ranked 14th on CNN’s list of “The 15 most expensive hotel suites in the world”. It comes then as no shock that Çırağan is the most expensive place for accommodation in Istanbul.

If you don’t want to spend the night here, reserve a spot at one of the four luxury restaurants or grab a drink at one of the bars or pop-up food venues. 

Topkapi Palace

If you want to see how the other half lived, Topkapi Palace in Sultanahmet will make your jaw drop! This was the royal residence of the Ottoman sultans from 1465 and is still in superb condition.

The gardens are simply beautiful, and they are free to go inside, named Gulhane Park. However, the palace itself will cost you to go inside, with the harem costing extra. However, it’s worth it for what you will see, and there are some of the oldest relics in the whole of the Middle East on display here, including shields and armor worn by Ottoman sultans, weapons, and old cooking equipment used by the staff within the palace.

During our visit in the winter of 2023, we found the palace was so huge that we needed a pit stop. So, we stopped at the on-site Topkapi Palace cafe. It was an outstanding place to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while looking out at the beautiful gardens. The cafe has a wide selection of coffees, teas, pastries, and snacks. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable. 

Dripping in gold and offering some stunning views over the Bosphorus, enjoying the Topkapi Palace is an Istanbul must-do!

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Whirling Dervish

You can watch these captivating ceremonies at many locations throughout Istanbul. This iconic ceremony is a spiritual, meditative dance that has been declared a UNESCO Heritage of Humanity and is one of the best things to do in Istanbul at night, even with kids (over 6-7 years) . My two boys, aged five and ten, sat quietly and enjoyed it.

We saw the Whirling Dervish at the Hodjapasha Dance Theater, which is located in a converted 15th century Turkish bath within walking distance of Sirkeci train station .

During winter, while we visited, performances were held every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday (at 7 pm). Then, beginning in March, daily ceremonies were scheduled.

Though it may look like an art performance of sorts, it is still actually a religious ceremony. I was disappointed they asked us not to take any photos (even without a flash), but I understood why. You also can not talk or leave your seat at all while the Dervishes spin – so make sure the kids go to the restroom (on the lower floor) before the starting time.

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Grand Bazaar

Visiting the Grand Bazaar without getting lost is impossible, but that’s half the fun! Dating back to 1461, this is the oldest covered bazaar globally, and it’s an authentic experience and an assault on the senses!

You’ll find hundreds of small stores selling everything you could think of. It’s loud, bright, quite hilarious at times, and a little confusing, but it’s something you have to do to get a real feel of the “old” Istanbul in Sultanahmet/Fetih.

Spice Bazaar

The bustling Spice Bazaar of Istanbul is one of the largest and best-known bazaars in the city, second only after the world-famous Grand Bazaar. This sprawling covered market is in the Eminönü quarter of the Fetih district and dates from 1660, with revenue coming from Egypt .

This is why it is/was also known as the “New Bazaar” or “Egyptian Bazaar.” Since its founding, the Spice Bazaar has been the focal point of Istanbul’s lucrative spice trade. Nowadays, there are still dozens and dozens of shops selling all kinds of spices and herbs, but you can also find things like coffee, sweets, dried fruit and nuts, jewelry, and Turkish souvenirs here.

Spending an afternoon browsing the Istanbul Spice Bazaar is one of the must-do things in Istanbul, particularly if you like cooking and shopping.

Ortakoy Mosque And Bosphorus Bridge

The massive Bosphorus Bridge is quite an impressive and imposing sight on its own, but sitting right next to it is one of the most stunningly beautiful mosques you’ll ever set eyes on. Situated in Ortakoy/Besiktas, it’s a literal old versus new picture, and it’s one that you will no doubt have seen on websites and photos across the world. See if you can snap the famous sight for your own collection.

Down by the waterside at this iconic place in Istanbul are countless cafes , restaurants, and even a Starbucks. You can grab a coffee and sit outside, watching the seagulls circling and the huge ships passing by.

If you want to enter the mosque built in 1856, remember that it is a working mosque, so you need to follow mosque etiquette, as we discussed when we mentioned the Blue Mosque earlier.

If you head into Besiktas and then follow the main road straight, you’ll come to a pretty seaside area called Bebek. This area is very affluent, so you’ll likely see a Turkish celebrity or two with huge houses decorating the hillside. It’s calm and pretty feel around here, a far cry from the center of Taksim or Besiktas on a regular day.

Grab a coffee and walk along the waterside, watching the huge ships pass by almost silently, or sit and enjoy a traditional Turkish cay or even breakfast at one of the many restaurants . This area also has some very high-quality steakhouses and seafood restaurants, but it is certainly not the cheapest area!

You can get the bus down to Bebek from Besiktas or Ortakoy, and it runs quite frequently, although you are likely to get stuck in the famous Istanbul traffic at some point!

Mosque Of Suleyman The Magnificent

While the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are more famous, the Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent may just be the most beautiful of all mosques in Istanbul . Founded in 1550, this enormous mosque was the largest in Istanbul until 2019, when the Çamlica Mosque surpassed it.

Its bright and shiny interior is absolutely gorgeous, while the exterior boasts the classic dome and four tall minarets at each corner. You can admire this monumental religious building from the outside, but entering is also possible. This majestic mosque is genuinely one of the landmarks you must see in Istanbul, especially if it’s your first visit.

Additionally, don’t miss the Mausoleums of Sultan Suleyman I and his wife, Hurrem Sultan.

• 18 Best Mosques In Istanbul

Tea Overlooking Europe

One of the most popular low-cost activities in Istanbul is to head over to the Asian side and sit on the waterside in Uskudar.

Here, you can buy a glass of Turkish tea (cay) and sit on the cushions, watching the famous sunset over the Golden Horn of Europe. It’s a calming experience showing you this city’s true beauty.

This area is also home to a chill nightlife scene if that’s more your style.

Taksim Square

You can’t visit Istanbul and not go to Taksim Square . This is the busiest part of Istanbul, day and night. Seeing traffic and crowds on the famous Istiklal Street at 3 a.m. is not unusual!

Jump on the famous red tourist tram and make your way down i̇stiklal Caddesi without having to weave your way through the crowds, do some shopping, grab a coffee, eat a delicious meal, go to the cinema, go to a nightclub – the list goes on!

Taksim is a very international part of Istanbul, and you’ll see people here from all over the world . It’s a friendly vibe, for sure, but it’s also a very busy one, so follow your common sense and remember to keep your bag close to you and not flash your valuables. The same goes for any busy city in the world, of course. For more tips, check out our post on scams you may encounter in Istanbul .

• How To Get From Istanbul Airport To Taksim
• Best Hotels In Taksim Square
• Guide To Surviving Taksim With Your Sanity Intact

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul, Türkiye. Standing at a whopping 984 feet (300 meters) tall, it offers breathtaking views of the cityscape below. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and take in the stunning panoramic views. On a clear day, you can even see all the way across the Bosphorus Strait to Asia!

Also known as the Tower of Christ, the Galata Tower is a striking medieval tower in Istanbul’s Karakoy district. It stands just north where the Golden Horn meets the Bosphorus. Built by the Genoese, this magnificent tower was once the highest point in the city walls of Galata, a former Genoese colony in Turkey .

While most of the walls are gone nowadays, the Galata Tower survives. And it is also open to the public every day of the year. A visit to this fantastic view is one of the best things to see and do in Istanbul, Turkey .

Note: Many sites say a cafe/restaurant is on the top floor. During my visit in February 2023, there was no such option.  

Walls Of Constantinople

Another ancient fortification and fascinating place in Istanbul to see are the Walls of Constantinople. These mighty defensive walls were built after Constantine the Great made Constantinople the Roman Empire’s new capital in the 4 th century AD.

The Walls of Constantinople were the last great fortification system constructed during Antiquity. There are still among the grandest and most expansive systems of fortified walls and towers ever built. Once surrounding the city on all sides, both on land and on the shore, the most significant part of the system was the Theodosian Walls, a famous double defensive line.

Although most of this once-imposing system is now gone, sections of it still stand to this day. You can even walk on top of parts of the Istanbul City Walls! This is possible on your own self-guided visit or on guided tours. If you’d like to learn more about the city’s rich and long history, this is one of the best things to do in Istanbul, Türkiye, for you.

Rooftop Dinner Or Drinks

Rooftop bars and restaurants epitomize luxury, sophistication, and panoramic views . These sky-high oases offer a unique dining and drinking experience that elevates any evening to new heights. Whether looking for a romantic date night or a night out with friends , rooftop bars provide the perfect combination of breathtaking views, delicious cocktails, and gourmet cuisine.

Istanbul is home to many fantastic rooftop bars and restaurants, so be sure to add one to your city visit!

• Best Rooftop Bars & Restaurants In Istanbul

Sea taxis are one of the most recent additions to Istanbul’s transportation options. Out of commission for almost a decade, they’re now back in business. You can hire these sea taxis and go anywhere that has a shore.

They can anchor almost everywhere, which eliminates the need for more port space and, in return, provides virtually endless routes. This is a fantastic way to explore the Bosphorus Strait, Marmara Sea, Black Sea , and Golden Horn on your own schedule.

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show

An evening boat trip helps you see Istanbul from a different vantage point, with the glistening lights around you. A dinner cruise and night show is a great way to spend the evening, and you’ll undoubtedly get your money’s worth as you’ll be on board for four hours! During that time, you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner and travel along the Bosphorus, seeing two continents simultaneously.

After dinner, the entertainment begins with belly dancing, whirling dervishes , and folk dancing. You can also dance freely once the entertainment program has finished.

The tour price includes dinner, soft drinks, and limited local drinks; however, you’ll need to pay extra if you want imported drinks. If you stay  in the Sultanahmet and Sirkcei areas, you’ll get a free pick up and drop off.

Find more details and availability of this tour here.

• Shared & Private Bosphorus Cruise Tours
• Istanbul Nightlife

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Discover Colorful Fener & Balat

If you’re looking for a taste of the real Istanbul, away from tourist traps, then head to Balat. Step into this charming bohemian quarter of Istanbul, and you’ll be transported to a world where time seems to have stood still. This historic neighborhood is home to colorful tea houses, vibrant street art, and eclectic galleries that showcase local talent.

From sipping traditional Turkish tea with locals to exploring hidden alleys adorned with captivating murals, there’s no shortage of things to do in Balat. And with its central location on the European side of Istanbul, it’s easy to get to from anywhere in the city.

• Enjoy A Day In Colorful Balat

Eat Turkish Ice Cream

Turkish ice cream is a delicious and refreshing treat that can be enjoyed in Istanbul all year round. This type of ice cream is made with milk, sugar, and starch and often has a thick, creamy consistency.

One of the best places to enjoy Turkish ice cream in Istanbul is at one of the many street carts that can be found throughout the city. These carts generally have a wide selection of flavors to choose from, and the ice cream is usually served in a cone or cup. It is also typically flavored with vanilla, chocolate, or pistachio.

Another fantastic place to savor Turkish ice cream is at one of Istanbul’s many cafes or restaurants . Many of these establishments serve traditional Turkish desserts like baklava, which can be enjoyed alongside a scoop or two of ice cream. What better way to cool down on a hot summer day than by enjoying some delicious Turkish ice cream?

• Beyond Doner Kebabs – Lesser Known Istanbul Street Foods

Turkish Hammam

After a tiring day exploring Istanbul , you should know how to relax and rest your body. There are many options, yet none is as good as visiting the hammams of Istanbul.

Istanbul is home to many famous and historic hammams in the world. These historic bathhouses were once an integral part of daily life in the city and still play a significant role in the city’s culture and history.

The Cağaloğlu Hammam, erected in the 18th century by Ottoman architecture big wig, Mehmet Ağa, is one of Istanbul’s most famous and historic Hammams. This hammam is still in use today and is a must-see for anybody interested in experiencing Istanbul’s traditional culture and heritage.

The Galatasaray Hammam, built in 1481, is another old Hammam in Istanbul still in use. This hammam is well-known for its stunning tilework and elaborates architectural aspects, and it is an excellent choice for a classic Turkish Hamam experience.

In Istanbul, hammams are not merely a place for personal grooming but also a cultural and social activity. Visitors can enjoy the traditional Turkish hammam experience with friends and family.

Gulhane Park

Just behind Topkapi Palace, you’ll find a huge expanse of green and calm. You won’t feel like you’re in a huge city at all, and you can imagine yourself walking around with sultans, just like the Ottomans did back in the day.

I often refer to these gardens as ‘Narnia’ because, with the huge trees and open spaces, that’s exactly how it feels, especially when it has snowed in winter.

Walk up the hill, following the path, and you’ll find a tea garden with a stunning view over the Bosphorus.

Take Photos At Galataport

If you walk along the road from Kabatas to Galata and Karakoy, you’ll find a brand new shopping center and dining area called Galataport. However, this is far more than a mall as it has some of the best views over to the Asian side and over to the Blue Mosque.

Visit at sunset, and your jaw will drop – this is one of the best spots to take photographs.

While you’re here, you can dine, shop, and simply enjoy the ambiance of being directly by the waterside.

Nusr-et in Etiler

Everyone has heard of Salt Bae, either when he crashed the World Cup Final or from his meme with the salt. But have you ever tried one of his steaks? This restaurant is seriously in demand, and while it’s certainly not the cheapest, it’s a must-visit if you can.

The steaks here are huge, and if you want to splash the cash, there’s always the gold leaf steak to try. Alternatively, or perhaps as well as, go for the profiterole tower!

If you want to dine here, you need to book a table well ahead of time and still be prepared to wait. There are countless other people all booked in at the same time, and especially at weekends, the queue can be huge.

Walk Around Yildiz Park, Besiktas

Few people are aware of the sheer number of parks in central Istanbul, and once you’re in one, it’s almost like someone has muted the noise. Yildiz Park is somewhat of a hidden gem on the road between Besiktas and Ortakoy.

Look out for the brown side, which points up the street to your left; walk up the rather steep hill, and you’ll be rewarded with plentiful greenery, cute statues, and a river with ducks to feed.

• Turkish Hammam Tips Before You Go
• The Best Hammam In Istanbul

Is one day in Istanbul enough?

No! Even with a week, you’ll have difficulty fitting everything in. Aim for 3-4 days if your timing allows, knowing you can’t see it all.

What is the best area of Istanbul to stay in for first-time visitors?

Sultanahmet, Karaköy, & Taksim are all near main attractions and have east public transport available.

Do I need to cover my hair in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a relatively liberal city, so you only need to cover your hair at religious sites. Bringing a scarf, or buying one as a souvenir, is a good idea to always have one on hand.

Do they speak English in Istanbul?

Yes, you will find that most people, especially at main tourist sites and hotels, speak English.

These are some of the best experiences and attractions in Istanbul that you have to tick off your list, but the story isn’t finished, as Istanbul still has far more on offer!

• Cool Day Trips From Istanbul
• Relax & Rejuvenate At The Best Spa Hotels In Istanbul
• How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia
• Your Guide To Beyoglu, Istanbul
• Things To Do On The Asian Side Of Istanbul
• The Istanbul Museum Pass
• Guide To Best Places In Turkey To Visit

Comments (5)

After Reading this blog It’s all clear what to visit and what all things to do in Turkey. I have also read a blog where it says top places to get the best pictures, you might also want to consider writing that as another post.

Thank you for the information. Its good to know some important things to do and some special attractions in Istanbul that you must visit once.

thanks for sharing such great infos about Turkey we really helped.

You write a very informative article.

It was a great article, thanks for sharing🙌

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Istanbul Travel Guide: 26 Top Things To Do (2024)

• Last updated: December 7, 2023

Croatian-Slovenian full-time travel duo, photographers, bloggers and travel journalists for over 4 years. We write in-depth travel guides about destinations we have personally visited, providing practical travel tips and recommendations.

About Istanbul

Istanbul, the unofficial capital of Turkey , is a city of two continents, a place like no other, full of history and culture that has been around for centuries.

From the bustling streets of the Grand Bazaar to the beautiful mosques and palaces, Istanbul is a place where you can experience both old-world charm and modern amenities.

The delicious food in Istanbul is also to be noticed – from tasty traditional Turkish dishes to international cuisines, there’s something for everyone!

Whether you’re looking for an exciting vacation or simply want to explore a unique city with rich history, Istanbul should be on your list!

We absolutely loved going around Istanbul and will keep returning for more of this charming city.

Istanbul Travel Tips

Before we jump into the top things to do in Istanbul, let’s cover the essentials and tips to help you have a more fun, enjoyable, and safer trip in this charming city.

Pay less for tickets

• Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line
• Istanbul Tourist Pass: Over 85 Attractions & Services
• Istanbul 5-Day Guided Museum Pass
• Istanbul Welcome Card

Going around

• Istanbul City Transport Card for Bus, Metro, Tram & Ferries
• Istanbul private car with a driver

Stay connected

Instantly connect to the internet on your arrival to Turkey by buying an eSIM package in advance.

• Buy your Turkey eSIM online on Holafly. (use code SHIPPEDAWAY for 5% off)
• Buy your Turkey eSIM online on Airalo.

And if you need unlimited internet for more devices at once or for a group or family, it’s worth checking out the Istanbul Unlimited 4G Pocket Wifi .

Book trusted tours

Istanbul is straightforward to explore on your own.

On the other hand, if you want to maximize your experience and not bother with organizing things yourself, you can opt for one of the top-rated Istanbul tours on Viator or GetYourGuide .

Top things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul’s incredible history and position in the world give you plenty of things to do, from historical sites to see, culinary experiences to enjoy, and activities to do.

1. Visit the Hagia Sophia

One of the top things to do in Istanbul is to visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, a historical landmark located in the heart of Sultanahmet.

Hagia Sophia was initially built as a Greek Orthodox church in 537, but it was used as a mosque in the last centuries since Ottoman rule started in 1453.

Later, in 1935 Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey , turned Hagia Sophia into a museum before the government turned it back into a functioning mosque in 2020.

Inside Hagia Sophia, you can still see some mosaics and Christian icons, even though it’s now a mosque, and some things were covered by big cloth/rugs and Arabic inscriptions.

You can visit Hagia Sophia every day except during prayer hours . Although Hagia Sophia doesn’t close entirely like some other mosques during prayer, so you can still visit even though a part of the main hall will be inaccessible.

Check the prayer timings online before visiting Hagia Sophia so you don’t come right at the prayer time.

Please note that women must cover their hair, shoulders, and legs before entering Hagia Sophia. And there are headscarves and covering clothes available for rent at the entrance.

There is no ticket for Hagia Sophia as entry is free of charge , as for all mosques.

While we visited Hagia Sophia by ourselves, a great way to learn more about it is by joining a Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with a certified, knowledgeable guide.

And you can also visit Hagia Sophia as part of one of the daily tours like Best of Istanbul in 1 day , where you also see the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, among other attractions like Grand Bazaar.

2. Visit the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque of Istanbul, is one of Turkey’s most iconic and beautiful landmarks, just across the Sultanahmet park from Hagia Sophia.

The mosque is known as the Blue Mosque because of the interior walls, ceilings, and details dominated by blue-color Iznik tiles.

Blue Mosque’s official name is Sultan Ahmed Mosque because of the Ottoman Empire’s sultan Sultan Ahmed who decided to build it in 1609.

After extensive renovation since 2016, the Blue Mosque is still not entirely open to visitors, so some parts inside are inaccessible. Nonetheless, walking around the area of Sultanahmet park and the nearby Hagia Sophia, you will get a great glimpse of it.

3. Visit the Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace, a large museum in the heart of Istanbul’s Sultanahmet, is one of the best places to visit if you want to learn about the history, culture, and everything else about the Ottoman Empire.

The Topkapi Palace, for many centuries, served as an administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, and during its time, it was a royal residence that accommodated high-ranking officials.

In 1924, right after the end of the Ottoman Empire, the government turned the big Topkapi Palace complex into a museum.

Some of the things you can see in the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul are the harem, the treasury, numerous clothes, relics, weapons, and manuscripts.

Topkapi Palace is one of the places where it’s worth getting a guide if you want to learn a bit more about its history and the meaning behind the many rooms and artifacts. One of the tours we can recommend is the Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour with Entry Ticket .

If you’re visiting Topkapi Palace by yourself, we recommend going very early in the day, right after opening, and checking out the Harem first and then the rest. That way, you’ll be able to be done before crowds arrive.

The Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is open every day between 9 am and 6 pm , except Tuesday .

The full ticket for Topkapi Palace costs 650 TL or 35 USD and includes the harem and Hagia Irene.

Please note that for the audio guide for the Harem at Topkapi Palace, you need to either leave a deposit of about 100 EUR/USD or your passport, ID, or driving license. And prepare to queue for some time out in the open to get the audio guide.

Beware that Topkapi Palace is quite extensive, so if you come just before closing time or even 1 or 2 hours before closing, they might not let you enter because you just wouldn’t have enough time to go through it.

We didn’t manage to visit Topkapi Palace, but from other people’s experiences, it’s worth visiting with a guide or at least getting the audio guide. Otherwise, it’s hard to understand the rich history of this place.

4. Stroll through Istiklal Street

One of the busiest and most famous streets in Istanbul is Istiklal Street, which stretches from Taksim square all the way down to Gallipdede music street, right next to the Galata Tower.

Istanbul’s Istiklal Street is so famous because it’s lined with international and local stores, restaurants, and street food, and it is also where the famous red tram of Istanbul operates.

We loved that it was so easy to find delicious food along Istiklal Street, from the many restaurants to the street food snacks like fried corn, chestnuts (when in season), kumpir, Turkish ice cream, and more.

If you want to experience this part of Istanbul to the fullest in the shortest time, we highly recommend the tour Istanbul Modern City Walking: Taksim to Galata .

We walked the whole length of Istiklal Street many times towards the Galata Tower area when we stayed in our cozy studio at The Istanbuller .

5. Visit the Galata Tower

No visit to Istanbul is complete without taking a photo of the iconic Galata Tower.

Situated in the heart of the “modern” part of Istanbul, the beautiful Galata Tower is one of the top attractions.

The Galata Tower, or Galata Kulesi in Turkish, was built as a watchtower in 1348 during the existence of the Genoese colony in Istanbul.

The streets leading directly toward the Galata Tower are lined with cute cafes, restaurants, and shops inside European-style buildings.

The opening hours of the Galata Tower in 2024 are every day between 8:30 am and 11 pm , and the entrance ticket is 175 Turkish Lira or about 10 USD.

Note: Prepare to queue up for your visit inside the tower, as it’s very popular.

From the observation deck inside the Galata Tower, you get a great panoramic 360-view of Istanbul.

You can even catch a glimpse of the Galata Tower from the Galata Bridge or the other side of the city, for example, the Suleymaniye Mosque.

Being one of the biggest icons of Istanbul, the Galata Tower is the central spot for many photoshoots, and everyone wants to find a great place to stay nearby with a view of it.

Our Istanbul visit coincided with Arijana’s brother Alen’s visit ( @be_mesmerized ), and he was staying at The Galataport Hotel with a fantastic view of the Galata Tower from the terrace.

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6. Visit the Galata Bridge

Just below Galata and the Galata Tower, you can find the Galata Bridge, which spans the Golden horn in Istanbul, connecting the old, traditional city to the modern part of Beyoğlu.

We loved the area around the Galata Bridge toward the sunset. There were lots of fishermen fishing off the side, boats passing by, simit being sold off of carts, with a warm atmosphere of locals and tourists ending their day together.

7. Visit the glamorous Dolmabahce Palace

Istanbul is full of palaces and especially along the shore of the Bosphorus strait, and one of the grandest ones is the Dolmabahce Palace, which served as the Ottoman Empire administrative center right after Topkapi Palace.

The Dolmabahce Palace was much more inspired by the modern European style than some other palaces.

In 1924 they transferred the ownership of the Dolmabahce Palace to the new Republic of Turkey , and the country’s founder Ataturk spent his last days there before his death in 1938.

The opening hours of the Dolmabahce Palace are every day from 9 am to 5 pm, except Mondays , when it’s closed.

The combo ticket to Dolmabahce Palace costs 500 Turkish Lira or 26 USD and includes the harem.

Note: At Dolmabahce Palace, you must also leave your passport/ID as a deposit for an audio guide, like at Topkapi Palace.

You can also see the outside of the Dolmabahce Palace from a Bosphorus cruise, as well as many other palaces.

8. Visit the Ortakoy Mosque

Ortakoy Mosque on the Bosphorus waterfront is one of Istanbul’s most beautiful mosques and the top photo spot in the city.

Most people visit Ortakoy Mosque for sunrise, as it looks incredible. So you’ll see plenty of photographers and photo shoots in the early morning.

It was a gloomy day when we visited for sunrise, so we couldn’t get those nice photos. But it still looked pretty cool.

And if you want to wake up with the view of Ortakoy Mosque, then book a stay at The Stay Bosphorus , which has an incredible, rare view of the mosque.

The Stay Bosphorus

Also, the area around the Ortakoy Mosque is quite beautiful, and right next to it, you can find the place with the most extensive amount of Kumpir stalls.

You can pick up your portion of the giant Kumpir potato and enjoy it on the waterfront.

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9. Go on a Bosphorus cruise

One of our favorite experiences, and the top thing to do in Istanbul, is a cruise on the Bosphorus.

You can see both the European and Asian sides of the city, and while enjoying the ride, you will be followed by hundreds of seagulls as you take in the mesmerizing views.

While cruising the Bosphorus, you will see many palaces built right on the shoreline, as well as some important landmarks of Istanbul, like the Maiden’s Tower.

There are different cruises on the Bosphorus that you can choose from, like the join-in 90-minute cruise, the sunset dinner cruise, or the most expensive, the private yacht cruise.

Option 1: 90-minute Bosphorus and Golden Horn cruise

We opted for a join-in cruise on the Bosphorus, the cheapest way to experience it. You can board one of the bigger boats along the shore near Sultanahmet.

If you do like we did, you can book the ride on the spot at the Sirkeci Terminali or one of the Eminönü ferry terminals for about 75 Turkish Lira or about 4 USD for a 90-minute ride, but you can also book the cruise in advance online .

Option 2: Lunch cruise

Another excellent option for a cruise on the Bosphorus is the Istanbul Lunch Cruise , which lasts longer than the regular 90-minute cruise as it takes you almost to the Black Sea.

Option 3: Sunset dinner cruise

And the sunset or dinner Bosphorus cruises are the perfect way to end the day in Istanbul.

• Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht
• Bosphorus Music and Dinner Cruise w/ Private Table (live shows)
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table (shows including dervishes)

Option 4: Private yacht rental

And if you prefer a more comfortable and private experience, you can book a private yacht to cruise the Bosphorus.

10. Shop at the Grand Bazaar

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is the top place to visit for shopping for souvenirs, spices, herbs, teas, snacks, candy, jewelry, and lots more.

The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is the oldest covered market in the world, built in the 15th century, and its immense size can be overwhelming as you get to explore about 4000 stores in the 61 streets of this beast of a market.

The architecture of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is truly breathtaking, and strolling through the busy maze-like market is quite an experience.

Note: Everything changes through time, and so does the Grand Bazaar, meaning that it’s clear that many of the stores are primarily geared towards tourism, so the prices are much higher than one would expect at a market. Nonetheless, it’s very much worth a visit, if nothing else, for the architecture and history!

You can also go shopping in Grand Bazaar with a local: Istanbul Grand Bazaar Shopping Experience with a Local

11. Shop at the Spice Bazaar (Misir Carsisi)

Along the Grand Bazaar, the Egyptian Bazaar/Spice Bazaar of Istanbul is one of the most famous shopping spots, and even though it’s smaller, it still offers plenty of choices.

We shopped for lokum (Turkish delight) at the Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar, and with a bit of haggling, you can get a good deal, especially if you take a bit more. 

Haggling tip: Never agree to the price at face value at these markets, as you can negotiate the prices posted on the stalls, and discounts are always possible. But don’t go overboard! Be sensible and friendly, and you might get a nice deal. In the end, if you’re happy and the merchant is satisfied, it’s a success!

Stay protected on public WiFi

We’ve been using NordVPN for over 5 years now and can highly recommend the tool for protecting your privacy and freedom while browsing the internet.

It encrypts your connection and hides your data from potential hackers . Also, with a VPN, you can access blocked/restricted content like some Netflix movies or booking sites.

TIP: Shipped Away readers get a special deal .

12. Visit Suleymaniye Mosque

The Süleymaniye Mosque is an iconic Ottoman imperial mosque located on a hill, from where you can get a beautiful scenic view of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus Strait.

It is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world. And Süleymaniye Mosque was actually the biggest mosque in Istanbul until 2019, when Çamlıca Mosque, the now largest mosque in Turkey, was built on the Asian side.

You can enjoy the beautiful view from the side of the mosque and explore its beautiful inner courtyard.

Unlike what others say, Süleymaniye Mosque is not a hidden gem, and is very much visited by tourists and can get quite crowded. And it’s understandable why, because it looks very cool.

13. Visit Balat, the mix of trendy and traditional

Balat neighborhood of Istanbul is where you can see the mix of trendy, modern, and traditional, as new hip cafes and restaurants pop up in a usually very traditional and conservative place.

Balat has a long history, and it’s one of the oldest districts of Istanbul.

You can visit Balat on the Fener and Balat Walking Tour (including a visit to Pierre Loti Hill and a boat ride on the Golden Horn).

Some of the most recognizable and famous attractions in Balat are the colorful houses and the historic wooden homes on the steep hilly streets.

> Click here for the location of the colorful houses of Balat. <

Another popular spot in Balat is the entrance to İncir ağacı kahvesi Cafe, with colorful stairs that everyone visits for some lively photos. And it’s a somewhat cool spot to quickly see when you pass by on your walk up Balat’s streets.

The rich and diverse history of Balat makes it unique amongst the districts in Istanbul, as it was traditionally the home of many minorities, including Jews, Greeks, and Bulgarians.

Balat is the most hip and trendy place in Istanbul, and there are many cute cafes and restaurants all over now.

We went for a coffee at The Popstel Balat , which has an incredible view of Balat.

And we got a great view of the hill with the Phanar Greek Orthodox College, the oldest surviving prestigious Greek Orthodox school, as well as the St. Mary of the Mongols, an Eastern Orthodox Church and one of the only remaining Byzantine churches.

Another cafe we visited was the Rota Balat Coffee , and there are so many other fabulous cafes all around Balat, with new ones popping up the whole time.

And we loved the food at the vegan restaurant Veganarsist . It was delicious!

14. Visit the Princes’ Islands

A perfect day trip from Istanbul is to the nearby Princes’ Islands, a group of 9 islands off the coast of Istanbul where princes and royalty were exiled in the Byzantine Empire.

In recent history, the Princes’ Islands became a popular resort destination for the wealthy of Istanbul. And many of the historical cottages, villas, and houses are still preserved today.

Fun fact: There are no motorized vehicles on the Princes’ Islands.

You can visit the islands on a Princes’ Islands Day Tour from Istanbul or by booking ferry tickets and then staying the day or overnight at one of the hotels.

While we recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance (if you don’t go on a tour), you can also buy your ferry tickets on the spot at the Kabataş pier .

Note: If you visit on a Sunday, or even Saturday, it will be very busy as Istanbul’s residents head out to the islands. So keep that in mind.

We didn’t visit the Princes’ Islands on our last visit to Istanbul, but if we were to visit, we would probably stay a night or two to enjoy it a bit more.

Best places to stay on Büyükada (the big island)

• Ada Palas Buyukada
• Serguzest Otel Buyukada
• Ascot Hotel Buyukada
• Splendid Palace

15. Watch a Whirling Dervishes show

The most famous and fascinating show to attend in Istanbul is the Whirling Dervishes Show at HodjaPasha Culture Center .

The whirling dervishes performance is a captivating ancient form of spiritual dance part of Sufism, a mystical form of Islam, and it’s performed by the Mevlevi order, which originates in Turkey’s Konya.

16. Visit the Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern, or Yerebatan Sarnıcı, built in the 6th century in the heart of Istanbul’s Sultanahmet, is the largest underground cistern among the hundreds found in the city.

The architectural design, with its 336 columns and vast size, makes the Basilica Cistern unique. And according to measurements, it can hold around 80000 cubic meters of water (that’s a lot!).

The ticket for the Basilica Cistern costs 300 Turkish Lira , or about 16 USD .

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is open every day from 9 am to 7 pm .

You can visit the Basilica Cistern by yourself, but we highly recommend booking a skip-the-line guided tour as you will avoid the long queue and get a helpful guide inside.

17. Visit a Hammam for a traditional Turkish bath

Turkey is famous for their spas, and one of the best things to do in Istanbul is a traditional Turkish bath in a Hammam.

Hammams date back to the Ottoman Empire, and many of the historic hammams built in the 15th century are still operational to this day.

One of the oldest and most famous is the almost 600-year-old Aga Hamami near Taksim Square and Istiklal Street.

18. Indulge in a delicious traditional Turkish breakfast

While in Istanbul, you must schedule a delightful Turkish breakfast for one of your mornings.

Turkish breakfast combines sweet and salty dishes with lots of spreads like hummus, jam, and plenty of Turkish tea or Sahlep.

We enjoyed two decadent Turkish breakfasts at the very famous Van Kahvalti Evi , not far from Taksim Square and Istiklal Street.

Make sure to order a lot of bread, jams (try the fig jam!), menemen, Gözleme, and delicious Turkish tea or Sahlep.

While Van Kahvalti Evi is the most famous restaurant for a traditional Turkish breakfast in Istanbul, there’s also Doğacıyız Gourmet , Yiğit Sofram Gözleme ve Kahvaltı , and Cafe Privato , which are all equally impressive and are all located near Taksim, Istiklal, and Galata.

Many more great Istanbul restaurants offer a traditional breakfast, but some of the outstanding ones (not mentioned above) are a bit far from the main tourist area. So we’ll explore those on our next visit!

19. Try Istanbul’s iconic dishes

Istanbul, with its rich history and position in the world, is a melting pot of cuisines of the neighboring countries as well as its fascinating traditional cuisine full of unique flavors.

There are plenty of iconic Istanbul dishes you should try, including the famous Simit, Kumpir, Baklava, and Lokum (Turkish delight).

Turkish delight – lokum is a delicious candy based on gel, starch, sugar, chopped fruits, and nuts, and sometimes it’s even wrapped in edible rose petals.

The famous “Turkish bagel,” called simit, is one of the foods you can find all around Istanbul, and it’s a very affordable and delicious snack you can get for a few Turkish Liras or about 0.2 USD.

And you can get the Simit plain, with a cheese spread, or if you feel like splurging, with Nutella.

One of the dishes that surprised us the most on our visit to Istanbul was the giant stuffed baked potato, fully loaded with cheese, various veggies, olives, and sauces called Kumpir.

No visit to Istanbul and Turkey is complete without enjoying some delicious freshly made baklava from one of the countless baklava stores.

Baklava is a unique Turkish dessert made from layered dough filled with different crushed nuts and soaked and covered in plenty of sugary syrup.

The best baklava in Istanbul is found at the famous Karaköy Güllüoğlu dessert shop, and you can even get it delivered to your country.

5. Pomegranate juice

Turkey is one of the native lands of the pomegranate fruit, which results in plenty of pomegranate juice stalls spread around the country and Istanbul.

6. Lentil soup

The humble lentil soup found in Turkey and Istanbul is one of the dishes we loved the most and were looking forward to whenever we went for a Turkish lunch.

Turkey’s lentil soup is a comfort food and a dish you shouldn’t miss on your visit!

20. Taste Istanbul’s delights on a food tour

The perfect way to explore Istanbul’s cuisine more in-depth is by joining a food tour that takes you around the different spots in the city, trying various delicious traditional dishes, snacks, and desserts.

We highly recommend the Istanbul Taste of Two Continents Food Tour , as they also take you to the Asian side of Istanbul to try some different foods while giving valuable information on the history and culture of the places you pass by and visit.

> Click here to find the best food tours in Istanbul <

21. Learn about Turkish and Ottoman cuisine on a cooking class

And if you want an even more in-depth knowledge about the Turkish and Ottoman cuisine then you can join a cooking class or workshop while in Istanbul.

Check out these recommended classes on Cookly :

• Cookistan Turkish Cooking Classes with an Old Istanbul Neighborhood Tour
• Cooking Alaturka Istanbul Cooking Class
• Homemade Baklava Workshop

And there’s even an excellent Turkish Coffee Making Workshop we found where you learn how to make it yourself and learn about the history, tradition, and culture behind it.

22. Eat, drink, and enjoy the view of Hagia Sophia and Bosphorus from a rooftop

At the famous Seven Hills Restaurant in Istanbul, you can enjoy a delicious meal, drink some Turkish tea or coffee and enjoy the view of the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus from their famous rooftop.

Istanbul is known as the city of seven hills, and once you step foot in the city, you will realize why.

And there’s absolutely going to be a hill or two for you to conquer.

Let that be the one from the Galata Bridge to the Galata Bridge, the hills around Sultanahmet, or the hills leading towards Taksim and Istiklal street.

The Seven Hills restaurant is just a few minutes from Hagia Sophia, so it’s easily reachable, and you can also stay at the Seven Hills Hotel .

Though the Seven Hills restaurant is the most famous one, there are quite a few others we can recommend, like Old House Restaurant Terrace , Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop , and Queb Lounge .

23. Snap photos at the hip photo spots of Istanbul

Istanbul has exciting street art, graffiti, colorful stairs, and hanging umbrellas that are great photo spots across Balat, Karaköy, Galata, and Eminönü.

We stumbled upon a few of these street art spots, so here’s a list of them if you want to check them out!

• Balat colorful stairs
• Karaköy Umbrella Street
• Rainbow Steps
• Stairs with Portrait

Note: Depending on the upkeep, some of these stairs might have much less color left. But we did find a few more spots while walking from the area of Dolmabahce towards Galata, crossing the hilly streets (no idea how to find them, though). So new spots might pop up as well.

24. Go clubbing

Although Turkey’s main religion and culture are Islam, it’s a secular country, so the party scene in Istanbul is very much alive.

You can experience the vibrant nightlife of Istanbul with people from all corners of the world and hit the various clubs of Istanbul in the heart of partying near Taksim on an Istanbul Pub Crawl .

25. Find a book at the Second Hand Book Bazaar

Of the many bazaars (markets), Sahaflar Çarşısı, the second-hand book market is the most specific one, as its primary purpose is supplying the city’s demand for good quality second-hand books.

And because this is Turkey, there were plenty of cute cats around the market.

26. Run the Istanbul Marathon

Last but not least, running the Istanbul Marathon is the most unique thing you can do in Istanbul, as it’s the only marathon in the world that spans two continents, beginning in Asia and finishing in Europe.

We were lucky to be in Istanbul at the time of the Istanbul Marathon in November 2021, and it’s been on our list of things we want to do ever since.

It was such a great vibe, as everyone was cheering each other on.

And we loved seeing the diversity of the participants, from men to women, from young, to old, as well as disabled and from all kinds of aspects of life and nationalities.

Trips from Istanbul

Istanbul is the perfect starting point for a day trip to Troy, Gallipoli, and Bursa and doing a road trip down south to the Turquoise coast of Turkey or flying out to destinations like Ephesus , Pamukkale , and Cappadocia .

We rented a car in Istanbul and covered Bursa, Izmir , Fethiye , Oludeniz , Kas , and Antalya , and then headed up to Konya and Ankara before returning to Istanbul.

> Click here to find the best car rental deals in Istanbul <

1. Go on a day trip to ancient Troy and Gallipoli

You can go on a day trip to Troy or Gallipoli, or combine it on an overnight, 2 days 1 night Gallipoli and Troy Tour .

2. Go on a day trip to Bursa

Bursa is also a great place to visit from Istanbul, even though it’s about a 3 hours ride away. And one of the places near Bursa worth seeing is the 700-year-old ottoman village.

We visited Bursa with a car on our way south towards Izmir .

Read all about the Cumalıkızık Ottoman Village in Bursa .

Note: If you want to visit Bursa on an organized trip from Istanbul, beware of the scam tours found online. Most group tours we saw are purely focused on stopping at souvenir/clothes shops and very little on making it an enjoyable experience.

We researched extensively and combed through the high-rated tours and found mostly fake reviews.

So the best option is choosing the Private Bursa City Day Trip by Adore Tour that caters to your wishes specifically.

3. Fly out to Ephesus and Pamukkale

Domestic flights from Istanbul to Izmir are frequent and affordable, so it also makes sense if you want to do a trip to Ephesus (near Izmir) and Pamukkale .

There are also tours that offer 1, 2, or 3-day packages.

• Ephesus Day Tour with Return Flights From Istanbul
• Ephesus and Pamukkale: Day Trip by Plane from Istanbul
• Ephesus & Pamukkale 2-Day Trip with Flights

4. Fly out to Cappadocia

The flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia (Kayseri or Nevsehir airport) is fast, and you can easily fly into Cappadocia in the afternoon or evening and then do a hot air balloon flight the next morning.

You can visit Cappadocia on a 2 Day All Inclusive Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Optional Balloon Flight .

5. Multi-day Turkey trip from Istanbul

It’s also very convenient to go on multi-day Turkey trips that start from Istanbul, covering the main attractions and destinations of the country.

Best time to visit Istanbul

Istanbul is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is in the spring and autumn when the weather is nice, and it’s not too hot, from mid-March to June and between September and November.

Summer in Istanbul is hot, and the temperature is between 30 and 35 degrees Celsius, but it’s mostly the humidity you will feel the most. So we highly recommend starting your days as early as possible.

We visited Istanbul in September, October, and November, and although November is already going towards winter, it was still a pleasurable time.

Winters in Istanbul can even bring snow in December, January, and February, and that’s when Istanbul looks even more fascinating. Although the snow doesn’t really stick around for too long, a few days tops.

Due to Istanbul’s location between several different climate zones and having the Mediterranean on the south and the Black Sea on the north, its weather is often unpredictable.

How to get to Istanbul

Istanbul is a major tourist destination and travel hub between Europe and Asia due to its strategic location and the massive airport serving numerous airlines and routes.

Flying into the Istanbul Airport (IST) or the other major airport Sabiha Gokcen is easy from any European and many Asian locations.

> Click here to check flight deals from Europe <

> Click here to check flight deals from the United States <

> Click here to check flight deals from Asia <

There are fixed-rate taxis and transfers available at Istanbul’s new airport, but you can also book your airport transfer online in advance (from and to the airport).

Likewise, you can book your Sabiha Gokcen Airport Transfer in advance online.

Istanbul is also reachable by bus from other Turkish cities and neighboring countries Greece, Bulgaria, and even from other Balkan countries.

> Find bus and train tickets to Istanbul on Omio <

> Find bus and train tickets to Istanbul on 12Go <

Book your bus:

• Bus from Thessaloniki (Greece) to Istanbul
• Bus from Sofia (Bulgaria) to Istanbul
• Bus from Bucharest (Romania) to Istanbul

How to get around Istanbul

The best way to get around Istanbul is by walking between most of the attractions in each district and then using the metro, tram, bus, and ferry to get between them.

Istanbul is notorious for its traffic jams, especially around the busy hours in the morning, between 7 am and 10 am, and in the afternoon, between 5 pm and 7 pm.

We were unfortunate on a few occasions when we were stuck in a traffic jam in a taxi when we were moving between Sultanahmet and Taksim, and it cost us a lot of money.

So we highly recommend using public transport in Istanbul, as it’s very effective and affordable.

Istanbul Transport Card

You can book an Istanbul Transport Card online that gives you a set amount of rides, 5, 10, or 20, that you can use for the metro, tram, bus, and ferry. And you can pick it up at the airport or one of the city offices, or even at your hotel.

Istanbulkart

You can also buy the official Istanbulkart at the airport, metro stations, and tram stations from one of the automated yellow/blue machines for about 60 Turkish Lira and then top it up with how much you think you will spend. We suggest topping up about 100 TL, which will get you about ten rides.

And you can, of course, buy one-time tickets at the machines at the public transport stations, but they cost more, and it’s a bigger hassle.

And you can also go around the city with the Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour and the Eurasia Bike & Boat Half-Day Tour .

And if you have your own itinerary in mind and want to explore the city at your own pace, you can hire a private car with a driver .

Where to stay in Istanbul

The best place to stay in Istanbul for tourists and short-term visitors is the areas of Sultanahmet , Sirkeci, and Beyoğlu (Galata, Istiklal, Taksim).

Staying in one of these places will allow you to explore Istanbul easily on foot and, when needed, hop aboard public transport.

We stayed in an apartment near Taksim square and a hotel in Sultanahmet so that we could explore both parts of Istanbul on foot.

Taksim is better for apartments and bigger rooms, while Sultanahmet’s old city part is primarily full of hotels with smaller rooms, except for the more expensive and bigger hotels.

No matter where you stay in Istanbul, make sure it’s close to one of the public transport lines, either the bus or the tram, as it’s going to make exploring Istanbul a breeze.

Top-rated hotels in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet

• Sultanahmet Palace Hotel
• Obelisk Hotel & Suites
• Radisson Hotel Sultanahmet

> Click here to find all the top-rated hotels in Sultanahmet <

Top-rated hotels near Taksim Square and Istiklal

• Sentire Hotels & Residences
• Sofitel Istanbul Taksim
• Siva Pera Hotel & Spa

> Click here to find the best hotel deals near Istiklal Street and Taksim Square <

Top-rated hotels near Galata Tower

• Galata Times Boutique Hotel
• DeCamondo Galata
• Georges Hotel Galata
• World House Boutique Hotel

> Click here to find the best hotel deals near Galata Tower <

Where to eat in Istanbul

Finding a great place to eat in Istanbul is easy as there are countless great restaurants in all the districts, with all kinds of food, from local Turkish to Greek, Italian, and Indian to whichever other international cuisine you can think of.

> Check out the top-rated Istanbul restaurants on TripAdvisor <

And here are some of the places we’d like to highlight.

Turkish breakfast spots

• Van Kahvalti Evi
• Doğacıyız Gourmet
• Yiğit Sofram Gözleme ve Kahvaltı
• Cafe Privato

Vegan/vegetarian restaurants

• Veganarsist (Balat)
• Vegan Istanbul (Beyoğlu, near Taksim)
• Vegan Food Cartel (Taksim, Istiklal)
• Vegan Dükkan Lokanta (Beyoğlu, near Taksim)

How many days in Istanbul is enough?

Istanbul is a big city with lots to do and to properly explore and experience it, we recommend at least three full days plus an extra day or two for trips outside of Istanbul.

Is Istanbul expensive?

Being the unofficial capital, Istanbul is, of course, the most expensive city in Turkey, but it’s still very much affordable for most tourists, as it caters to all kinds of budgets.

Along the fancy restaurants and luxurious hotels, there are plenty of budget accommodations and more affordable places to eat, like the local “Lokantasi” buffet-style restaurants with delicious home-cooked meals.

Tickets for visiting Istanbul’s attractions tend to cost a bit of money, especially if you plan to visit all or most of them, but you can at least get them a bit cheaper with the tourist pass or welcome card.

The transport in Istanbul is quite affordable, with one ride on the metro or tram costing around half a euro/dollar if you get the Istanbulkart.

All in all, Istanbul offers a lot for budget travelers and likewise for travelers with a bigger spending budget.

What to pack?

While Turkey is a Muslim and more conservative country, you’re more or less free to dress as you usually would. They’re not as strict.

However, please be respectful when visiting religious sites, as you need to dress respectfully. Especially women, who need to cover their heads, shoulders, and knees. 

Taking a long dress, skirt, or pants for women visiting Istanbul is recommended. Arijana also always takes a sarong with her to cover her head or shoulders when needed. While many religious sites provide cover for free or for a small fee, we like to be prepared.

Here is a general packing list for Istanbul:

• Scarf, shawl, or sarong
• Long dress, skirt, or pants
• Sunglasses with polarized lenses
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunscreen  
• Quick dry travel towel
• Portable charger
• Camera or GoPro

Packing regular T-shirts while visiting Istanbul is also a must. We love our Unbound Merino T-shirts as they’re lightweight and breathable, plus they don’t get stinky that fast. And that means we can reuse them more than regular T-Shirts.

They also have hoodies, great long sleeves, and even a dress for women, which we love!

We have a discount for our readers if you want to try merino clothing.

Use code SHIPPEDAWAY to get a 10% discount at Unbound Merino.

Is Istanbul a safe destination?

While Istanbul has had a few devastating events in the last two decades, it’s still a very much safe destination, and the Turkish people are warm and welcoming.

And a fact that further confirms that Istanbul is safe is that it’s steadily on the list of the world’s most visited destinations.

How to spot and avoid scams in Istanbul?

As with any other bigger city in the world, in Europe, Asia, Africa, or South America, you need to be mindful of the common tourist scams that take place here.

NOTE: These are not just Istanbul-specific scams but are more or less global.

Taxi scams are common in any big city, and Istanbul is also notorious for its taxi mafia, which doesn’t want to use the meter for your ride or takes a super long route to get as much money from you as possible.

What to do: Only use metered taxis and follow the route on your phone (Google Maps), so if the taxi is spinning around in circles and taking weird detours, you know to stop him and exit.

Money switch scam

When you hand over money while paying for a service or product, be aware of how much money you give, as sometimes they might want to try to make it seem like you gave too little money.

How it’s done is that if they notice you’re not following what they’re doing, they might exchange a bigger denomination note, like a 50 note for 5, and then show you that you gave too little money while they pocket the actual money you gave.

What to do: Just be mindful of how much money you paid and watch the cashier/salesman until the transaction is done and you either get your change or a bill.

Prices charged in euros or dollars and not in Turkish Lira scam

While shopping in Istanbul, you may encounter a situation where if you pay by card, they might charge you the amount in a currency like US dollars or Euros instead of the actual price in Turkish Lira.

So, for example, the price of a carpet is 500 Turkish Lira, but they would put the price on the card machine as 500 USD.

What to do : Before paying with a card, ensure the price is exactly as advertised and in Turkish Lira. Or just end up paying in cash if you feel that the seller is sketchy.

Pickpocketing

As with any major city and tourist destination, pickpocketing is possible, especially if you’re unaware of your surroundings and belongings.

We’ve seen many videos of how easy it is for skilled pickpockets to steal something from you, and it’s ridiculous how good they are.

What to do: While walking in crowded places, put your bag in front of you, and don’t have anything in your back pockets.

Shoe polishing scam

While walking around Istanbul, a shoe shiner will “drop” his brush down on the ground in front of you, so you pick it up, and then he tries to persuade you to clean your footwear, but if you do accept, it’s going to be an astronomical price.

What to do: If you need your shoes polished/shined/cleaned, approach a legitimate shoe shiner along the streets and negotiate the price beforehand.

Overfriendly strangers promoting their bar scam

Don’t fall into the scam where a random stranger approaches you on the street and addresses you as his/her “friend” and tries to get you into a restaurant/bar in an overly friendly way.

The place you’ll end up in is where you will be served overpriced drinks, often ones you didn’t even ask for, and you will end up paying incredibly high prices.

What to do: Don’t go anywhere with a stranger that randomly popped up in front of you on the street.

Thinking something is free of charge scam

When you’re going for a meal in a restaurant or drinks in a bar, always ask if the appetizers or provided “complimentary” nuts/candy are free or not. Although in many restaurants, you do genuinely get free appetizers, it won’t always be the case.

What to do: Simply ask when you receive what looks like complimentary appetizers in a restaurant if it’s free, and the same for free nuts/candy in a bar.

Carpet shop scam

As with the scam involving strangers approaching you to bring you to their restaurants or bars to overcharge you, it’s very common to get invited into a carpet shop, where again, they will charge astronomical prices.

How it’s usually done is that they try to find a clever way to get you to their shop; for example, if you’re asking for directions, the person might take a detour to one of the shops.

What to do: Ideally, try not to get lost, but if you do and the person you asked for directions is taking you somewhere that looks like a setup, leave.

Is Istanbul worth visiting?

In conclusion, Istanbul’s popularity is there for a reason, and we can confirm that Istanbul is definitely worth visiting for its fascinating history, delicious food, and lots of things to do.

Looking for more travel guides and Turkey travel inspiration?

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The Top 19 Things To Do In Istanbul in 2024

Fey Arberk Bozoglu Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Istanbul has the privilege of being the major city that connects both Europe and Asia, and it’s also the most populated city in Europe. This beautiful city of Istanbul is home to rich cultural monuments that bring history to life, and many other historical, modern, and post-modern attractions and things to do. Get to know this iconic city by hitting up our favorite things to do in Istanbul.

Pro Tip: If you are planning a holiday to Istanbul, definitely bookmark this article! This way you can easily return to this page to explore the best things to do here while planning ahead.

The 19 Best Things To Do, See, and Explore in Istanbul

Istanbul is a diverse city that’s full of adventures to discover. You can find something interesting and fun to do at any time of the day! For instance, you can climb the Galata Tower, shop at the Grand Bazaar, indulge in drinks at Kadıköy Bar street, and on and on.

We’ve worked to put together the ultimate Istanbul guide with these top things to do in Istanbul from seeing the most incredible mosques to trying delicious street food. You’ll have trouble choosing among all the places on this list as you decide how to get the most out of your experience in Istanbul.

While visiting the places on this list, you can also encounter new areas to explore since Istanbul is a huge city. However, we’ll provide plenty of tips about the surrounding area in addition to the specific destination, so keep your notes handy. Here are the top things to do in Istanbul!

19) Taste True Istanbul Street Food At Kızılkayalar Taksim

Since the 1980s, Kızılkayalar has been a local and tourist favourite in the heart of Istanbul’s Taksim Square. Loved by children and elderly, this place is treasured for many reasons. However, one particular reason strikes the most which is Kızılkayalar’s speciality: the Islak Hamburger (Wet Hamburger). The Islak Hamburger is one of the most famous Istanbul street foods. It’s made out of a special tomato sauce bun and the burger is prepared in a griddle.  

The best and authentic place (out of numerous places) to try Islak Hamburger is here. Eating this hamburger after a few drinks is highly recommended, because this tasty hamburger soaks up all your troubles. Of course, there are plenty of other delicious selections to eat from toasts and sandwiches to Turkish d o ner.

This restaurant has a few franchises across Istanbul, but this is the original store in an iconic location (and the busiest). Also, they’re open weekdays 7am – 5am and weekends 7am – 6am, so whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you can come here and treat yourself.

Address: Katip Mustafa Çelebi, Sıraseviler St, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

18) Take a Tour of the Princes’ Islands Beauty

Princes’ Islands is comprised of nine islands, however the biggest and most attractive island is Büyükada. There is only one sensible and cost-effective way to travel here, which is by ferry.

Depending on where you are, there are a few ports with ferries to Büyükada: Kadıköy, Eminönü, Bostancı, Kabataş, and Beşiktaş. But for the best experience, book a full tour with a guide who will ferry you around the islands and take you to see the best spots on land.

There are plenty of fun things to do here, however there are a few special things to do. For example, you’ll want to indulge with Turkish ice cream, ride a bike, see the colourful mansions, and swim and play on the beach. You’ll have to manage your time carefully, because time flies in Büyükada! 

Also, there are historical places to tour and visit such as churches, mansions, and more. The Aya Yorgi Church is highly recommended, because when you go you can light a candle and say your blessings.

Address: Büyükada, Adalar, Istanbul

17) Meet Fellow Footballers In The European Beşiktaş Market Zone

The Beşiktaş Çarşı is home to one of the most famous, global football team in Turkey: Beşiktaş. As a result, this market zone is filled with local football fans and sports memorabilia that you can purchase too. This district is where the heart of Beşiktaş flows

What makes this particular market zone worth visiting is its location and centrality in the European side of Istanbul. You can get here easily using buses, taxis, minibuses, ferries, and so on. (Using taxis isn’t strongly suggested in Istanbul due to the higher cost.) As a bonus, if you come here by ferry from the Asian side, you’ll be treated to a magnificent view of the Ortaköy Mosque pictured above on the water’s edge.

Above all, when you’re here you can enjoy local stores, restaurants, Turkish custard shops, cafes, and more, many of which are photoworthy. In short, if you love shopping, then get to know the Istanbul culture here and meet locals in the Beşiktaş Market Zone. The people here have lots of Turkish hospitality and kindness. They also share food with you as a gift!

Address: Sinanpaşa, Mumcu Bakkal St, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

16) Stay in One of the Most Historic Hotels

If you seek a hotel with an historical ambiance and a luxurious, elegant touch, the 127-year-old Pera Palace Hotel is the right selection. This classy 5-star hotel is truly suggested as the best place to stay since it incorporates Istanbul’s history with Turkish neo-classical design. This magnificent old beauty literally survived the fall of the Ottoman Empire and thrived as the New Turkish Empire rose.

The Pera Palace Hotel strongly standouts from other hotels, not only in the Beyoğlu region, but also in Istanbul. One specific reason is that this hotel shares Istanbul’s symbol of connecting Asia and Europe. Those intentions carried through the carefully-selected decor in hotels rooms, common areas, and attractions like the Atatürk Museum Room and the Agatha Christie King Room.

The Pera Palace Hotel also has a perfect central location, particularly if you’re arriving from the Atatürk International Airport. The hotel is really close to major attractions such as: Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, and the Pera Museum which are also places on this list of things to do in Istanbul.

Location, photos, and booking

15) Treat Yourself To A Turkish Bath at Cağaloğlu Hamam

Turkish baths have a global reputation for being relaxing, healthy, and cleansing, and there are several located in Istanbul. Coming to Istanbul and not trying the Turkish bath experience would be a miss.

There are several fundamental reasons why Turkish baths are so popular in Turkey; however, one major reason is its historical heritage. Turkish baths date back to the Ottoman Empire and carries the roots of cleanliness in Islam. Therefore, many locals and tourists cherish the Turkish bath experience and go when they can.

Cağaloğlu Hamam is our favorite place where to check out the Turkish baths. Cağaloğlu Hamam offers various Turkish bath experiences that combine modern Turkish culture and the Ottoman past. For example, you can choose the Bridal Bath, the Istanbul Dream, the Ottoman Luxury Service, and more.

The prices for the Turkish bath treat ranges from 50 Euros to 300 Euros depending on the service you choose. It’s highly encouraged to make a reservation beforehand to ensure availability and time.

Address: Alemdar, Prof. Kazım İsmail Gürkan St, Fatih, Istanbul

14) Discover Local and Historical Art at The Pera Museum

The Pera Museum is a cultural and historical gem of Istanbul. Pera is perfect to explore whether with family, friends, or by yourself. There are a wide range of treasures to uncover here, but, the top can be listed as the Orientalist Paintings, Anatolian Weights and Treasures, and Kütahya Tiles and Ceramics.

This incredible museum also cooperates with national and international artists to display an exhibition which shows the diversity of Istanbul. Pera Museum, recognised globally, gives the opportunity for locals and tourists to unite under one bridge to enjoy art. All of the Pera’s exhibitions are supported by catalogues, books, and audio-visual events.

Additionally, Pera offers an amazing adventure to explore with Pera Film, which is composed of diverse film and video art screenings. Like the museum itself, the film portion is also fun and informative to engage in.

You can easily locate this museum by car, subway, or bus because it is located in the heart of Beyoğlu district. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop available at the museum to find interesting and lovely souvenirs.

Address: Asmalı Mescit, Meşrutiyet St, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10AM – 7PM; Friday, 10AM – 10PM; Sunday, 12PM – 6PM

Admission Fee:  Adult 25 Turkish lira, Child 10 Turkish lira, and on Wednesdays admission is free for students to the museum and film sections

13) Grab Drinks At Kadıköy Barlar Street

There are many places to enjoy a local spirit in Istanbul, but my favourite is Kadıköy Barlar Street. One reason I love Kadıköy Barlar Street is because it is centrally located on the Asian side of Istanbul in Caferağa.This side of Barlar Street embraces an unorthodox atmosphere. For instance, there are many pubs, tattoo shops, and bars which give a more free and wild sensation than some areas..

This fun, interesting, and busy street is the right place to have drinks, because I’m sure you’ll find a place that’s your jam. There are many alternatives from rock pubs to metal bars and from jazz bars to local Turkish taverns.

Above all, if you plan on having a drink, and you want to try a Turkish classic, I truly recommend Efes, Bomonti, or Turkish Raki. If you want to taste beer that is brewed in Istanbul then 3 Kafadar beers should be your top pick. This street also offers various street food options to soak up some of your drinks. I love trying the rice, mussels, or kokoreç, which are delicious, staple Istanbul street food.

Address: Kadife St, Caferağa, Kadıköy, Istanbul

12) Get Romantic at The Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is a top local and tourist attraction for a wide range of people in Istanbul, and it’s open daily from 8:30 am to 12 am. The Galata Tower largely represents the long and strong history of Istanbul and Turkey, dating back to the 14th century. In fact, this tower is still used as a symbol to represent the city in newspapers, advertisements, books, and more, due its beauty and historical importance.

The Galata Tower is very romantic and definitely a place to go with someone special. There is even a famous legendary love story in Turkey based on the Galata Tower.

Although first constructed as a watchtower against invaders, the Galata Tower now serves as a museum and main attraction. It also offers tourists a precious opportunity to see a 360-degree view of Istanbul. And if you’re unsure about climbing to the top, don’t worry, there are elevators present in the tower for your convenience. If you have time you should enjoy delicious Turkish food at the Galata Tower’s café or restaurant.

To get the most out of your trip to Galata Tower, you can always purchase a guided tour with your ticket and learn all about its important history.

Address: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

Admission Fee: 100 TRY

11) Indulge (or Lose) Your Senses At The Spice Bazaar

Firstly, you should have at least two hours to spend in The Spice Bazaar. One reason is that the Spice Bazaar is huge, and the second is because you will get lost looking and exploring the various spices. There are not only spices available, but also tea, coffee, sweets, dried fruits, nuts, and on and on.  

The Spice Bazaar’s colourful existence has been present since 1664, continually sharing the historical heritage of Turkey. As a result, the Spice Bazaar is one of the oldest bazaars in Istanbul.

The Bazaar is located perfectly in the central part of Fatih, which is on the European side of Istanbul, so it’s easily accessible by bus, tram, etc. Moreover, there are tours available for The Spice Bazaar. Most people enjoy exploring without a guide because if you know how to bargain and look forward to exploring then you’re good to go, but if not then they’re a helpful way to experience this massive bazaar.

Address: Rüstem Paşa, Erzak Ambarı St, Fatih, Istanbul

10) See The World’s Most Valuable Chinese & Japanese Porcelain

Located in Fatih (the European side), Istanbul, and initially built in 1460, this museum is marvellous to visit. The Topkapi Palace is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site which ensures a strong historical presence. As a result, this palace is both educational to see and dazzles you with its mystique atmosphere.

When you visit the palace, you can recognise and encounter many aspects of the Ottoman Empire. For instance, the tiles and the harem in the palace date back to the Ottoman Empire period. After the founding of Turkey, the palace was transformed into a museum in 1924. This museum ultimately became the first museum of the Republic of Turkey.

Also, this cultural sanctuary has crucial collections to explore from the Imperial Treasury to portraits of Sultans and other paintings. I highly recommend when you come here you should visit the Chinese and Japanese porcelain collection. This museum holds the most valuable collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain in the world.

You can also have a fun and relaxing time at the garden, the museum’s gift shop, and café. Don’t forget to take photos here, because you’ll want to remember the fine architecture here.

Address: Cankurtaran, Fatih, Istanbul

Admission Fee: Topkapi Palace Price: 200 TRY (excluding The Harem) and The Harem Price: 100 TRY

9) Walk and Shop At Iconic Istiklal Street

Do you love shopping, walking, feeling free, and independent at the same time? In that case, Istiklal Street, also known as the Independence Avenue, is certainly the place to be! Istiklal has been declared by Istanbul’s locals and many tourists as the busiest street in the city.

In the same vein as Istanbul itself, Istiklal can be defined as the center where lights never dim. The location of Istiklal makes it a jewel for millions of visitors per day. The Street is enormous and connects many iconic attractions such as: Taksim Square, Galatasaray Square, and The Galata Tower.

This colourful street houses local stores, famous stores, cinemas, cafes, pubs, nightclubs, restaurants, art galleries, and on and on. Above all, without riding a bright and nostalgic red trolley, your tour of the Istiklal Street wouldn’t be complete. This tram is located in Taksim and travels to the Tunnel Nostalgia Tramway.

Address: Istiklal St, Beyoğlu, Istanbul

8) Feast Yourself At Karaköy Güllüoğlu

When people usually picture Turkish deserts the first thing that comes to mind is: Baklava. The delicious, crispy layers of dough filled with pistachios, walnuts, or hazelnuts and the juicy syrup melting with each bite—delicious. After picturing this description, you would understand my mouth-watering experience with baklava.

You shouldn’t eat baklava at any old place, because baklava is a special sensation that should be savoured only at an authentic bakery. As a result, I recommend Karaköy Güllüoğlu as one of the best in the business and a master at baklava. With many fresh selections to pick from, this store offers a wide variety of baklava. For example, you can indulge in baklava with pistachio, assorted baklava, baklava with walnut, and many more choices.  

Additionally, the prices for eating baklava at Karaköy Güllüoğlu are really reasonable and not pricey at all. This tasty store sells other local Turkish food such as: borek types, ice-cream, and tea.

Address: Kemankeş St, Katlı Otopark Altı, Karaköy, Beyoğlu Istanbul

7) Get the Best View of the Haydarpaşa Train Station

Riding the Kadıköy Ferry for the first time is an unforgettable experience. The ferry was colourful, interesting, and intriguing with musicians playing amazing tunes, Turkish food available to eat, and friendly people everywhere.

On the other hand, it would be unfair to forget about the exterior of the ferry. The top of the ferry was beautiful, too. You could breathe the fresh air, listen to the seagulls, take amazing photos, and much more.

However, while on the Kadıköy Ferry one specific attraction will grab your attention: The Haydarpaşa Train Station. The best way to view this magnificent structure is while sitting on top of the ferry. This view is worth the ride and time!  

It is important to mention that The Haydarpaşa Train Station has been closed for a while for construction. So, the perfect way to view this place is by ferry.

Address: Rasimpaşa, Kadıköy, Istanbul

6) See the Maiden’s Tower at Sunset

The Üsküdar Coast is dreamy anytime of the day or year. For example, in the morning it’s majestic to see the sun shining and hear the beautiful birds chirping. Then at night, the setting sun is a must-see here with the city’s lights shining in the background.

This coastline is an important attraction for many locals and tourists. You can enjoy Turkish tea, talking with locals, and eating at a café. However, one of the most striking and fascinating features of this coast is definitely the view of the Maiden’s Tower.

The Maiden’s Tower is both a popular and historical landmark for Istanbul. It has been also featured in international and national popular culture from films to TV shows to advertisements. The Tower is charming to view and there are many legends surrounding it, mostly romantic legends.

If you want to see the Maiden’s Tower up close, just book a boat ride and enjoy the cafe here. The menu prices are middle range, but with the view you get, it is certainly worth it. This little trip to this romantic tower easily makes it on our list of top things to do in Istanbul.

Address: Aziz Mahmut Hüdayi, Üsküdar Harem Sahil Yolu, Üsküdar, Istanbul

5) Get Your Haggle On At The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar like its name is enormous, busy, and full of things to do. As a result, you should at least save three to four hours to spend time here. The Grand Bazaar welcomes people around the world for many years and is a local favourite to shop at too.     

The entrance to The Grand Bazaar is free and the hours are from 8:30 am to 7 pm daily. Frankly, I recommend coming here early before the Bazaar gets busy and full. Also, a tip if you arrive early you have a higher chance to get a good bargain with products!

Most importantly, there are many shops to pick from and amazing things to explore. You can find almost everything here. For instance, there are silk scarves, ceramics, carpets, rugs, spices, Turkish coffee, Turkish delights, and more.

To sum up, you should explore and shop at one of the largest and oldest markets in the world.

Address: Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar St, Fatih, Istanbul

4) Wander The Beylerbeyi Palace

Commissioned by the 32 nd Ottoman Sultan Abdülaziz, this palace holds a special place in Ottoman and Turkish history. Its historical importance lies in the fact that it was summer residence for the Ottoman Dynasty. It also combines both western design and classical Ottoman structures.

The Beylerbeyi Palace currently serves as a museum with numerous sections open to visitors. The areas visitors can see are the mabeyn, the harem, the sea pavilions, and the barn stables. Additionally, you should wander in the luscious, magnificent gardens that house the Beylerbeyi Palace. The Beylerbeyi Palace Gardens overlook the Bosphorus Strait too, which is mesmerising to watch as modern traffic moves through this strategic waterway.

It is easy to reach this palace though it’s located in the central Üsküdar part of the Asian side of Istanbul. Since it’s a major attraction, it’s easy to reach the palace by minibus, ferry, boat, metro, and more. If you’re already in Üsküdar, you can take the yellow minibuses here directly.

Address: Beylerbeyi, Beylerbeyi Kavşağı, Üsküdar, Istanbul

Admission Fee: 60 TRY

3) Get Lost In The Blue Mosque

I love that it’s free to enter this marvellous mosque where you can get lost in its grandeur both literally and figuratively. The general color theme of the mosque is unique blue tiles—hence its nickname. It’s official name is Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Treasured by both locals and tourists, this mosque is open to visitors and functions as a mosque with scheduled prayers, too.

Above all, this mosque symbolises Turkey’s Ottoman heritage and wealth. This symbolic essence is evident in the design and structure of the mosque, for example, there is elegant stained glass windows and fine marble all around the mosque. You’ll need extra space on your phone for all the pictures and videos you’ll take here!

The Blue Mosque has six minarets, which makes it distinct skyline in Istanbul as well. The whole mosque is mysteriously magical and worth visiting, especially to embrace the true Istanbul culture.   

In the same vein as the Hagia Sophia, you should follow certain dress codes: women should cover their hair, and everyone must take off their shoes. Please also be considerate and quiet while in the mosque and take only photos that don’t require flashes.

Address: Sultan Ahmet, Atmeydanı St, Fatih, Istanbul

2) Snap Pics of Every Gate at The European-Style Dolmabahçe Palace

Istanbul’s first European-style palace was built with gold, which makes this palace stunning to look at. Its design intertwines neoclassical features, western-inspired structure, and nuances of Ottoman architecture, so the palace feels like an art canvas.

There are many things to explore and uncover, for instance, you can ponder the gardens, walk the Medhal Hall, and pay respect to Atatürk’s room. I also recommend seeing the magnificent stained glass windows, which you’ll fall in love with and want to take many photos of. You’ll also be intrigued by how many unique gates there are, such as, the gate of the treasury, gate of the sultan, and so on.

Moreover, guided tours are available for visitors mainly in English but other languages are available too. Consequently, if you want to engage in the history and cultural enactments of this palace, a tour is a great option..

Address: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe St, Beşiktaş, Istanbul

Admission Fee: Dolmabahçe Palace Price: 120 TRY (excluding The Harem) and The Harem Price: 90 TRY

1) See the Sultan Tombs at The Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is certainly an important wonder and historical gem of Istanbul and the world. First built as a church during the Roman Empire then rebuilt and converted to a mosque during the Ottoman Empire, this amazing structure has withstood it all.

This place is worth exploring as a major historical and cultural symbol of Turkey. There are indeed many beautiful features here within its exterior, interior, and surroundings. The dome and minarets provide one of the recognizable features in Istanbul’s skyline.

If you want to learn about this amazing structure, a guided tour is the best way to learn the correct information. They’ll guide you through all the marvellous parts of the Hagia Sophia, such as the dome, mosaics, sultan tombs, and minarets.

Additionally, because the Hagia Sophia currently operates as a mosque, you will need to remove your shoes before accessing the mosques carpets. It is also recommended to wear a head covering for women due to the mosque’s regulations. On Fridays they hold their prayer worship, so the mosque is always temporarily closed. Otherwise, it is free to visit.

Address: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı, Fatih Istanbul

About Fey Arberk Bozoglu

Fey loves travelling, researching, and writing about culture, food, art, and history. She also enjoys sharing her experiences and knowledge with her readers. Her expertise covers a wide range of topics such as music, food, art history, and more.

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January 4, 2023

Good info , Thanks

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The Partying Traveler

Survival of the littest.

The Backpacker’s Complete Guide to Istanbul, Turkey | 2024

Where does one even begin with Istanbul? This sprawling metropolis of over 16 million people is unlike any other city I’ve ever been to before. If the world had to choose a single capital city, I truly think Istanbul would be a strong candidate. It is the crossroads where Europe meets Asia, and it shows in its diverse cultures, rich history, cuisine, and more. No matter what name it went by at the time, Istanbul has maintained a significant presence in global history for thousands of years. It is seriously one of the most fascinating places one could ever visit.

I had fallen in love with Istanbul over the years without ever setting foot in the city. Through books, video games, movies, and more, Istanbul has effortlessly captivated my imagination ever since I was a kid. Whether I was trying to invade Constantinople as Attila the Hun or playing as the Byzantines on Age of Empires II, Istanbul was entrenched into my life long before I even wanted to travel. Those years of buildup and expectation building still could not prepare me for how much I fell in love with Istanbul.

So much so that I’m typing this out from my new apartment on Istiklal Street, the chaotic heart of Istanbul. Istanbul can truly be an overwhelming city for first-timers, and each day here has been a learning experience. Don’t worry, though. I got y’all covered.

And hey, if this post helps you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows me to keep providing free travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world.

Table of Contents

Things to know before going to istanbul, how to get to istanbul, where to stay in istanbul, the best things to do in istanbul, nightlife in istanbul, miscellaneous tips for istanbul, is istanbul safe to visit.

Like most cities of its size, Istanbul has its fair share of issues, but I found it overall to be pretty safe. Just keep your wits about you and you should be totally fine. Of course, there are some dodgy neighborhoods, but if you avoid them at night or altogether, you should be totally fine. As always, keep an eye out for pickpockets and always keep track of your valuables on public transportation. Turkish people are generally very welcoming and hospitable to travelers, at least in my experience. Respect the cultural norms and keep an open mind and open heart, and Istanbul will respond with love and hospitality.

Currency and money

The currency of Turkey is the Turkish lira. I’m not even going to bother looking up the current exchange rate because it is volatile and will likely change by the time I close out of the page. When I got to Turkey in September 2021, it was 8 lira to the dollar. By the time I left in December, it was 19 lira to the dollar. As of January 2024, it is a whopping 30 lira to the dollar.

There are tons of ATMs and money exchanges all over Istanbul, and the rates are typically fair. However, they’ll be less advantageous if you’re in tourist hotspots like the Grand Bazaar or Sultanahmet in general. The ones on Istiklal Street were reliable and close to the official exchange rate. Withdrawing money from ATMs is also pretty straightforward and you should have no issues finding one in the city.

Language Barrier

The main language of Turkey is Turkish, but in Istanbul, there’s a big melting pot of people. With so many countries represented, English becomes the common denominator. English is widely spoken. If the guy doesn’t speak English, they’ll hop on Google translate and speak into their phone and have the app translate it right then and there. It’s actually quite handy, and Turkey is the only place I’ve been to where people do this often.

As an English-speaker, you shouldn’t have any issues in Istanbul. The main tourist areas cater to English speakers. It’s also the language of the traveler. I’ve sat down with a group of a dozen people living in Istanbul from all over the world and despite English being none of our first languages, that’s what we’d have the conversation in. Don’t stress about a language barrier.

If you plan on staying in Turkey or Istanbul for a while, then a SIM card might be a good investment. I’ve found them to be quite expensive, so I started using the eSIM app called Airalo. The plans there are very affordable, with a 3 gigabyte data plan being about $8. Use code ELIJAH933 to get $3 off your first eSIM.

Travel Insurance

As always, before you go, make sure to have good travel insurance handy. I use  SafetyWing  to keep me covered throughout my travels. They cover Turkey among the 190+ countries included in their coverage.

Istanbul might be one of the most well-connected cities in the world. It is literally the crossroads where Asia meets Europe, and getting to and from Istanbul shouldn’t be an issue. I’ve found Istanbul to be one of the most affordable cities to fly to. Turkish Airlines is one of my favorite airlines, and you’ll often find good deals to and from Istanbul from major cities around the world. Flying is the best way to get to Istanbul, even if you’re already in Turkey. Even if you only book a few days in advance, it shouldn’t be too hard to find an affordable flight. Pegasus Airlines is a budget airline in Turkey that I’ve used several times without any major headaches.

Istanbul has two airports. Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) and the new Istanbul Airport (IST). Both are connected to the center of Istanbul by buses and taxis, although I personally prefer Sabiha Gokcen. Once you arrive in Sabiha Gokcen, you can use the Havabus to get to Taksim Square for 27 Turkish Lira, or about $3 USD as of November 2021. Havaist is the bus that services the new Istanbul Airport. Regardless of which airport you fly into, it shouldn’t be too difficult or expensive to get to the touristic centers of Istanbul.

Istanbul is a massive city. There are a ton of different neighborhoods to fit your taste. It can be overwhelming trying to narrow it down. Here’s a quick rundown of which neighborhoods I’d recommend, although you can read my more comprehensive guide to Istanbul’s neighborhoods .

Sultanahmet

For first-timers to Istanbul, this is probably where you should stay. It’s where most of Istanbul’s major attractions are. Being more touristy, the cost of living here is a bit higher but thankfully, hostels are still quite cheap. There are dozens of hostels in Sultanahmet. A dorm bed should cost around $10-15, and you can likely find private rooms for about $20-30 USD. I’d recommend Cheers Hostel .

My personal favorite neighborhood in Istanbul is the area by Galata Tower. It is trendy, walkable, and home to many cute restaurants, cafes, and vintage stores. If you plan on staying longer-term in Istanbul and have more money to spend, finding a place in Galata is a good idea. Hostel Le Banc is a fantastic hostel right next to all the action. Beytul Galata is an affordable and chic hotel that had no business only being $35 a night for its location and comfort.

One of Istanbul’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, Beyoglu is where I chose to settle down for a month. I got an apartment just steps away from Istiklal Street, the busiest in all of Turkey. It was one of the most balanced neighborhoods for a traveler looking to stay long-term. Beyoglu is still pretty affordable and well-connected to the rest of Istanbul by public transport. Istiklal Street has endless options for dining and shopping. The alleyways close to Istiklal are lined with plenty of bars and clubs.

On the Asian side, you’ll find one of Istanbul’s liveliest and trendiest neighborhoods. Speak to any local and they’ll gush on about how Kadikoy is the spot for dining, nightlife, and shopping. The scene here is young and international. If you plan on staying in Istanbul long-term, Kadikoy is an excellent neighborhood.

Cihangir is one of my favorite neighborhoods for coffee and breakfast. It is a lot quieter, especially before the afternoon when life in Istanbul really starts picking up. Roaming aimlessly will take you to a plethora of cute cafes, street art, and good views of the Bosphorus River and Istanbul. Cuppa and Valerie Coffee Company are two of my favorite cafes in Istanbul. Jumba Hostel is a great spot right next to the action of Cihangir.

Istanbul is one of the most culturally and historically significant cities in the world. I remember being a kid playing history games on my computer and falling in love with Istanbul, or Constantinople, Byzantium, or whatever the city was called at the time. I had an emotional moment when I first laid eyes on the Hagia Sophia for the first time. Don’t judge me.

Istanbul is a city with seemingly endless things to do. Whether you want to knock out the sights, explore cute neighborhoods, cafe-hop, or party hard, Istanbul is truly a treasure trove of things to do.

Topkapi Palace

Of all the touristy things to do in Istanbul, this one was my favorite. Topkapi Palace is vast, with many parts to it that could keep you busy for an entire day. The architecture here stunning, but the real beauty lies within. One could spend hours just gazing at the patterns on the ceilings and walls. The palace doubles as a museum, with entire buildings dedicated to religious artifacts, weapons, jewelry, and other things. The library was my favorite section of the palace grounds. If you have the museum card, make sure to visit the Harem Apartments and the 1700 year old Hagia Irene. Topkapi Palace alone honestly makes the museum card worth it.

National Archaeological Museum

Right next to Topkapi Palace, you’ll find the National Archaeological Museum. With how modern Istanbul feels, it’s easy to forget that this is a city with history dating back thousands of years. The archaeological museum has a great collection of artifacts from Istanbul’s storied past. Set aside a few hours for a visit to truly immerse yourself in the history of Istanbul.

Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

Right in the heart of Sultanahmet’s historic center, you’ll find the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts. It’s part of Istanbul’s Museum Pass, so we decided to pay it a visit while we were in the area. It turned out to be one of the best surprises of our time in Istanbul.

Hagia Sophia

How can you not visit Istanbul without visiting its most iconic attraction? Ever since I was a kid playing video games set in Istanbul, the Hagia Sophia has captivated my imagination. Seeing it in person for the first time was a beautiful moment, and I was as giddy as my seven year old self playing Age of Empires. It’s free to enter, and as marvelous on the inside as it is on the outside.

Blue Mosque

Right across from the Hagia Sophia, you’ll find the Blue Mosque. A staple to Istanbul’s unique skyline, this mosque is one of the most beautiful and grandiose in the city. It’s free to enter, and open to anyone outside of prayer hours.

Grand Bazaar

While specializing mostly in tourist fare these days, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is still a can’t-miss destination. It’s one of those destinations that can transport you back in time to the days when this was hub for artisans and merchants for hundreds of years.

Dolmabahce Palace

Talk about opulence. This palace in Besiktas is a can’t-miss while you are in Istanbul. It’s further away from the other tourist attractions of Sultanahmet, but it’s worth making the trek over. It is one of the most extravagant displays of wealth that you’ll find anywhere. The ceremonial hall might be the most beautiful room that I’ve seen anywhere. It costs 150 lira to enter as of November 2021, but I think it is worth it.

Galata Tower

Most of my time in Istanbul was spent living in the Galata area. The Galata Tower became very close to my heart, mostly because it was the main landmark guiding me on my drunk walks home. Once I got close to the tower, I knew I was home. It’s beautiful on the outside, but going inside and climbing to the top will give you some unforgettable views of Istanbul.

Galata Bridge

Sure, it’s just a bridge, but I never tired of walking up and down this bridge. The fishermen lining the bridge, the seagulls going wild, and don’t even get me started on the views at golden hour. I fell in love with Istanbul all over again every time I crossed this bridge. There are plenty of restaurants lining this bridge, so stop by for a meal or a glass of wine, or just take a stroll and take in all of the epic views.

Sulemaniye Mosque

While Istanbul is home to many mosques, this one is arguably the most beautiful. You’ll inevitably visit the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, but don’t miss out on Sulemaniye Mosque. The view from up here is absolutely incredible, to go along with its beautiful exterior and interior.

Bosphorus River Cruise

No trip to Istanbul is complete without exploring the city by sea. A Bosphorus River Cruise can be as cheap as 30 Lira ($3), although if you want a full experience with dinner at sunset, it can run you a little bit more. I’d recommend the company Turyol that sells tickets right from Eminonu Pier. The ride lasts about an hour and a half, and for $3, you really can’t go wrong.

Ataturk Kultur Merkezi (Ataturk Cultural Center)

One of my favorite hang out spots in Istanbul was the Ataturk Kultur Merkezi , right off of Taksim Square. It’s home to a lot of cultural displays, as well as a huge library that became my favorite work spot in Istanbul. It’s home to an opera house, a number of coffee shops, and plenty of cultural and historical displays. It’s also a beautiful building to just walk through.

Of course, this list barely scratches the surface. Istanbul has dozens of museums, palaces, and vast parks to explore. A day trip over to Prince’s Islands is a must. Roam through Yildiz Park and stick around for sunset. Peep into one of the many modern art museums. Catch a film at one of the indie cinemas. Go shopping, from fancy mega-malls like the Zorlu center, to one of many quirky thrift shops throughout the city. Heck, just hop on the metro to anywhere and wander through any of Istanbul’s many neighborhoods. The options in Istanbul are limitless. If you find yourself bored in Istanbul, you are the problem.

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff. While I adore the history and culture of Istanbul, I love a good party, if you couldn’t tell by the blog name. My first week in Istanbul was an absolutely wild ride. It took me to underground raves to electronic festivals in the forests. I don’t think I went to bed before 4 AM that entire first week.

This is where I spent most of my time in Istanbul. If you’re just looking to get drunk and dance, Beyoglu has an excellent concentration of bars within walking distance with each other. It’s perfect for independent bar hopping or organized bar crawls. My personal favorite spot in Beyoglu was Gizli Bahce, a cozy and often crowded bar playing funky electronic beats across their two dance floors. For pre-gaming, I’d recommend Ispanak bar. If you want to get down to Turkish music, check out Eskici. More tourist-friendly music and fare would be found at Ritim, Backstreet, or Yuri Gagarin. Kastel is a popular spot for electronic shows, although it’ll usually cost some money to get in. Roxy is another personal favorite of mine just off of Taksim Square, and a few minutes walk away in Cihangir is the boujee rooftop bar, Rika.

Unfortunately, I can’t speak too much about the nightlife scene in other neighborhoods. Besiktas is one hell of a place to party, but I’m not familiar enough to really recommend the best spots. Vogue and Joker No. 19 are two spots that are popular among my local friends. You could just walk through the trendy Akaretler neighborhood of Besiktas and finding a number of poppin’ bars, restaurants, and clubs. As one of the main centers of Istanbul, you can’t go wrong with choosing Besiktas for a party.

Kadikoy is another lively neighborhood with a very youthful party scene. Just go bar-hopping, and you’re certain to find some great spots. It’s on the Asian side, though, so if you’re staying on the European side, it might be a trek finding your way home late at night.

Of course, the best parties can be found even further outside the tourist hubs. Internationally-renowned DJs often come to Istanbul for shows, so if you’re ready to rave, keep an eye out for who might be passing through. Klein Phonix and Vibe Bomonti are two of my favorite spots to frequent for a good electronic rave. You’ll find big shows and concerts at stadiums and arenas as well.

Public Transport in Istanbul – Istanbul Kart

Istanbul is a big city. While I was fine walking mostly everywhere, it did help having the public transportation card. The Istanbulkart allows you on the ferries, trams, buses, and metros all in one card. Rides are pretty affordable, too. I think you can get anywhere for pretty around 5 lira, or 50 cents. The card itself will cost you about 13 lira, and then you can load it up with cash and use it to your heart’s desire. I definitely recommend getting one of these so you can ferry over to the Asian side or take the tram to and from Sultanahmet.

Don’t use Uber or taxis, use BiTaksi

The most frustrating thing about Istanbul was how ordering an Uber or negotiating with a taxi was constantly an ordeal. Taxis would criminally overcharge you. I thought I could avoid this by using Uber, but the drivers there also ignored the set price by the app. They’d message you, ask where you are going, and then regardless of your answer, they’ll state a ridiculous price. The locals use the app BiTaksi. The prices there are cheaper and the drivers tend to stick to the rate listed on the app. Don’t take taxis or Ubers unless it’s a last resort. Avoid the headache and frustration.

Museum Pass

If you’re only in Istanbul for a short while, I recommend capitalizing on the Museum Pass . This allows you into 13 museums throughout Istanbul at a hugely discounted price. Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower, the National Archaeological Museum, and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts alone makes the pass beyond worth it. If you want to save a lot of money and add a lot of culture to your Istanbul experience, get the museum pass.

Buy Me A Beer!

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

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One thought on “ the backpacker’s complete guide to istanbul, turkey | 2024 ”.

Wow! I never knew Istanbul was such a cool city. Really looking forward to visiting it someday! Thanks for the guide. This was super helpful.

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Home » Middle East » Turkey » Istanbul

Istanbul Travel Guide – Visit Cheaply in 2024!

Istanbul should be on the top of everyone’s travel bucket list. This is one of the most fascinating, authentic, and thrilling places that I have ever visited over the course of my traveling career and I get excited every time I think about returning here. But if we’re being honest right now, Istanbul is not always an easy city to visit. It’s big, hectic, and hard to crack into sometimes. Some people can visit Istanbul without ever having really experienced anything there aside from some popular tourist attractions and the way-to-touristy Grand Bazaar.

With this Istanbul travel guide, it is my goal to make the city more accessible and easier to visit. We’ll talk about where to go, what to see, where to stay, and much, much more. Istanbul deserves a bit more attention than some other cities out there but the extra effort is doubly rewarded.

So join me as I revisit this amazing place and walk through all of its twisting alleyways and historic neighborhoods. By the time we’re finished here, you should know exactly what to do when you travel to Istanbul yourself.

How Much Does Visiting Istanbul Cost?

Backpacker accommodation in istanbul, what to do in istanbul, a 3-day sample itinerary for istanbul, istanbul travel guide – extra tips and tricks, eating in istanbul – the best food and restaurants, some final thoughts from this istanbul travel guide….

By Western standards, Istanbul is a pretty budget-friendly place. Accommodation in Istanbul is about half of what you’d find in most major European cities, food ranges from cheap to dirt cheap, and getting around is always affordable with public transport. Visiting Istanbul on a budget should be no problem, even for those who are more budget-conscious.

A lower, backpacker daily budget for Istanbul will be around $25-$30/day. This will get you a dorm bed, groceries, beer money, and some extra cash to visit some attractions around the city.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Refer below for a brief breakdown of what to expect when planning a trip to Istanbul:

• Lodging – Hostels in Istanbul are cheap – a good one should cost around $10-$15/night. If you have a little extra to spend, Airbnbs in Istanbul are still affordable and, from my experience, very comfortable to stay in.
• Transportation – Public transport in Istanbul is also cheap. Prices range depending on the type of transit you are taking and the distance, but you can expect to pay around $1/trip. Riding public transport may take a while though (it’s particularly inefficient here). Taxis are better for getting around Istanbul but are more expensive. 2020 rates are 0.5 euro per km + start rates.
• Food – Depends on how you want to live. If you want to eat at upscale restaurants in Istanbul, expenses add up quickly. If you want to save money on food, there are many ways. Street kebabs are always cheap and grocery stores/markets are ubiquitous. Budget visitors to Turkey often plumb for street meat.
• Drinking – Booze is a bit more expensive in Istanbul relative to food. Beer can be found for as low as $2 but it’s more likely to be sold for standard Western prices i.e. $5 for a glass of beer or wine, $7 for a cocktail, etc.

Average Costs of a Trip to Istanbul

Here’s a breakdown of individual costs when formulating a daily budget in Istanbul:

Hostel Dormitory: $10-$15

Basic hotel room for two: $60-$80

Airbnb/temp apartment: $40-$60

Average cost of public transport: $1-$2/ride

City-Airport transfer: $2-$30

Doner Kebab: $1-$2

Beer at a bar: $2-$3

Coffee: $2-$3

Bottle of wine from the market: $10

Dinner for two: $10-$20

Istanbul Travel Guide – Budget Tips

• Eat doner kebabs: They only cost a couple of dollars on the street.
• VISIT ISTANBUL NOW : As of January 2020, the Turkish economy is in bad shape and the value of the lira is very low. You’ll get a great exchange rate if you have dollars or euros.
• Cook your own food: It’s backpacking 101! Cooking at the hostel or apartment is always cheaper than going out for a full meal. Rice and vegetables are your best friends as a backpacker.
• Haggle, haggle, HAGGLE : Any price that a shop owner tells you in the bazaars is about double what it actually should be. Never ever accept the first price when bartering for something – start at a third and work your way up. If you don’t know when it’s ok to barter, it’s usually done when prices aren’t listed. If you have to ask the seller how much something is, you’re bartering already.
• Don’t sleep in Sultanahmet or near Taksim Square: For the best prices on accommodation, stay in the more outer districts, like Fener or Kadikoy. There are great Airbnb options in Istanbul that will keep the costs low as well.
• Account for airport transfer expenses : Unless you want to spend an hour or two on the bus, you’ll most likely have to take a taxi from the airport. They aren’t cheap.
• If you want to drink, pre-fade at your place first : Paying full price at the bar is never the cheapest option. Get a buzz on first before heading out. NOTE that as of 2018, Istanbul has banned drinking in public so be sure to FINISH your drinks before leaving.
• Have a water bottle: Don’t waste money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap.

Why You Should Travel to Istanbul with a Water Bottle

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Right off the bat, I’m going to tell you that there is no ultra-convenient or perfect place to stay in Istanbul. The city is just too damn big, too damn busy, and too damn amazing to fit in a single neighborhood or district. Make no mistake: there are a lot of options when it comes to lodging in Istanbul.

Sultanahmet is probably the first area in Istanbul that everyone is going to look at for lodging. It hosts most of the city’s most iconic landmarks, like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, and is not too far away from the city center. Staying in Sultanahmet will be pricey though.

If you want to stay somewhere more traditional and local, consider Fener and neighboring Balat . They’re both listed on UNESCO and are practically open-air museums. The tall and narrow apartments that define the neighborhood are really cool to stay in as well.

One of my favorite places to stay in Istanbul is Galata . It’s slightly better connected to the rest of the city, has some great cafes nearby, and is pretty too. Istiklal Street is very close by as well.

If you really want to experience a different side of Istanbul, consider staying across the Bosphorus in the Kadikoy area. You will see a fraction of the tourists and will get to enjoy what many are calling “the new hot neighborhood in Istanbul.”

The Best Places to Stay in Istanbul

Are you wondering  which is the best part of Istanbul to stay in?  Well, let me give you a few suggestions.

Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is the historic and cultural heart of Istanbul. It’s the oldest part of the city and is surrounded by bodies of water to the north, east and south, and old city walls to the west.

Located north of the Sultanahmet district, Beyoglu is one of the liveliest districts in Istanbul and our top recommendation for where to stay for those on a budget. Home to the popular pedestrianized Istiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue), this district attracts locals and tourists day and night.

Galata is a neighbourhood located north of the Golden Horn. Although technically part of the Beyoglu district, this neighbourhood has a distinct feel and flair.

Karaköy is a small district situated at the mouth of the Golden Horn. Once one of the city’s most important ports, this area was left to deteriorate for decades.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is a colourful and chaotic district located in the centre of Istanbul. Built around the centuries-old Grand and Spice Bazaars, this area is where you’ll find a wide variety of vendors, shops and boutiques. Grand Bazaar is our top recommendation of where to stay in Istanbul for families.

With a Istanbul City Pass , you can experience the best of Istanbul at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

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No Istanbul travel guide would be complete without talking about the must-do things in the city ! Here are some of my favorite:

1. Wonder at the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of the single most impressive structures in the world – a wondrous achievement of human and religious endeavors. Once a basilica during the Byzantine era turned mosque when the Ottomans came, the Hagia Sophia is at the center of many people’s hearts. It is not to be missed.

2. Have a night out in Beyoglu

This is ground zero for the best nightlife in Istanbul. Whether you like raucous nightclubs, chill cafes, or hidden pubs in alleyways, there’s something for everyone in Beyoglu.

3. Explore the Asian side of Istanbul

The Asian side of Istanbul, the Anatolian side, could be considered a completely different city to visit. Vastly more local, way less chaos (except for rush hour traffic), and not without its own charms. This is where people go to discover the real Istanbul. Kadikoy and Moda are the most interesting neighborhoods in the area.

4. Go to a real Turkish bath (if you dare)

It’s not for everyone but Turkish baths certainly an interesting experience. More contortion and joint-cracking than relaxation and soothing at times, Turkish hammams are not for the faint-hearted. If you can make it through one though, you may just feel a bit younger (or a bit violated). Note that Turkish hammams are always separated by gender.

5. Get lost in history

Istanbul has changed hands more than a few times. First, it was a Greek settlement, then it was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, and after that, it was conquered by the Ottomans. This city has seen more than enough history over the course of its existence and nowadays it is practically an ark unto itself. Be sure to explore local heritage sites like the Chora Museum, the Greek Orthodox College, Rumeli Fortress and everything in between.

6. Enjoy the cafe culture of Galata

The best part about staying in Galata was the mornings. I could wake up, walk outside and within 100 square meters, there were a dozen awesome cafes. A long morning spent sampling Turkish pastries is time well spent.

7. Shop til you drop

A lot of people spend a weekend in Istanbul just so they can go shopping. This city appeals to just about every kind of shopper imaginable: trinketry, upscale, souvenir shopping, fashion; if it exists, you can probably find it in Istanbul.

8. Discover the many cool neighborhoods of Istanbul

Istanbul is not lacking for neighborhoods. There are at least 36 different districts in Istanbul and each of those has between 15-25 mahalle or neighborhoods in themselves. That’s a lot.

Whilst you may not get to see them all, I still suggest doing a little exploring. Go for a venture in the historic Balat neighborhood of Fatih or the up and coming Karakoy in Begolyu. You never know what you might find.

9. Watch the fishermen at Galata Bridge

This is one of those ultra-touristy things to do in Istanbul that is also super endearing. There’s just something about watching local fishermen stand there and wait potentially all day long for a catch. It’s one of the few tranquil spaces in the city and a nice way to break from the chaos.

10. Walk along the Bosphorus

Bosphorus is one of the defining aspects of Istanbul. For natives, it is a source of prosperity, greater well-being, and pride. For tourists, it’s a great way to get to know the city. Take a walk along the Bosphorus, visiting the many sites and districts along the way, and you will learn more about Istanbul than in any museum or textbook.

Three days in Istanbul should be the bare minimum when you visit; there’s so much to do here that you’ll already be limited on time. To help you use your time most wisely, here is a sample itinerary for y’all to enjoy!

Day 1 in Istanbul: Sultanahmet

You’ve probably just arrived and could potentially be jet-lagged. The best way to beat the lag I say is to just hit the ground running!

On the first day of our Istanbul trip, we’re going to be getting the touristy stuff out of the way first. That means heading straight for the Old City or Sultanahmet where most of Istanbul’s top attractions are.

Morning: After checking into your hotel in Istanbul, get a daypack ready  (pack a light lunch) and head to the nearest cafe. You’ll need a good breakfast and a stiff Turkish coffee for what we have in-store today.

Early-Afternoon: Start off with a leisurely stroll through Topkapi Palace. It’s mostly open-air and you won’t be stuck inside stuffy rooms too much. Find a nice place to sit when you’re ready and have that snack you packed.

Late-Afternoon: Next, make for the Hagia Sophia. This is, without question, the most beautiful landmark in Istanbul. Afterwards, head across the square to the Blue Mosque (note prayer times).

Evening: Head west towards the Grand Bazaar, stopping by the Basilica Cistern if you have time. I wouldn’t spend too much time in the Grand Bazaar itself – it’s a bit of a tourist trap. Just stop for a snack and a glass of mint tea. Our ultimate goal is the Suleymaniye Mosque where we will get to see the sunset.

Night: Time to find some food. If you stay in Sultanahmet, you will pay more money for worse food. There are much better selections across the Golden Horn around Galata and Ortokoy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try dropping by the local neighborhood of Fener.

UPDATE: The “ famous hidden viewpoint of Istanbul ” is currently closed as the roof is being renovated. There is a super cozy cafe in the building though that is probably my favorite in the city.

Day 2 in Istanbul: New Istanbul

Going to be another long day folks! Today we are sticking to the northern side of the Golden Horn, which is the “newer” part of town.

Morning: Grab a coffee and pastry in the Galata district. The medieval, Genovese tower is the most striking (and unmissable attraction) but the local cafes are just as noteworthy. They’re all super quaint and quite good.

Early-Afternoon: Head north and make for Istiklal Street. This is one of the main throughways in the city and is lined with shops and opulent arcades, like the Çiçek Pasaji. If you’re hungry, duck into one of the alleys for an early lunch – these alleys are packed with restaurants and bars.

Late-Afternoon: Keeping walking until you’ve reached Taksim Square and then keep going. Taksim Square is the official center of the city but doesn’t offer too much in the way of attractions. Instead, make for the Dolmabahçe Palace. You can pay to enter the palace if you like (the antechamber is amazing) or see the gate and mosque from the outside for free.

Evening: Find the nearest tram stop and head north towards Ortakoy. The local mosque is quite famous for its Baroque design and the neighborhood itself is well-known for its trendy bars and restaurants. This would be a great place to have dinner and some drinks.

Night: If you’re in the mood for partying, I’d say stick around Ortakoy or head back to the alleys of Istiklal Street. Otherwise, the cafes of Galata make for a relatively relaxing evening. Stay out as long as you want

Why are there so many cats in Istanbul? Some claim that it’s because a heroic cat saved the Prophet Muhammad’s life . Others say that it is because old Ottoman architecture was prone to infestation , so felines were introduced to hunt rats, pests, etc. Either way, cats are much loved in this city and are regular citizens in the eyes of the locals.

Day 3 in Istanbul: The Asian Side

To be honest, this part of Istanbul deserves its own itinerary. One could easily spend another couple of days here on top of what we’ve already talked about but, alas, for the sake of brevity, we can only talk about it in a day’s span.

Morning: There are two ways to travel across the Bosphorus: by bridge or by ferry. The ferry is the preferable choice. There are lots of ferry terminals in Sultanahmet and Karakoy – make sure you grab a ferry to Kadikoy on the Asian side. Also, be on the lookout for the iconic Maiden’s Tower in the Bosphorus.

Early-Afternoon: Kadikoy is one of the most popular districts in Istanbul at the moment. When you depart the ferry (assuming you got on the one to Kadikoy) you will be closest to the Moda neighborhood. There are lots of parks here as well as some good cafes to get you going. The views of Sultanahmet are also excellent.

Late-Afternoon: I’d recommend making a detour to Beylerbeyi Palace to spend some time here and along the Bosphorus. It will require you to use a taxi though as public transport is very bad in this part of the city. If this seems like a hassle, keep exploring Kadikoy. Go for a walk on Baghdad Avenue and grab some lunch in one of the many shady European cafes.

Evening: I highly recommend venturing out to Camlica Hill to catch the sunset as this park offers, without a doubt, the best views of Istanbul. There are also many places to go for walks or hikes in Istanbul in Kadikoy, this is just one of them!

Night: Grab some dinner and drinks in Kadikoy and then head back to your hotel in Istanbul when ready. Tomorrow we’re leaving 🙁

Want some more ideas? Check out this alternative itinerary for Istanbul!

Day Trips from Istanbul

As if Istanbul wasn’t big enough, there’s, even more, to do outside the city! If you’re spending more than 3 days in Istanbul, consider adding on one of these day trips from Istanbul :

• The Princes’ Islands – A popular day trip for those looking to escape the noise of the city. Beaches, bike rides, and charming coastal towns are all in abundance. Büyükada is the largest and most frequented island. Ferries to the island leave frequently from Kabatas Terminal in Istanbul.
• Edirne – One of Turkey’s stranger yet most respected sports is the ancient art of oil wrestling , which is exactly what it sounds like. One of the most important oil wrestling tournaments in Turkey is held in Edirne in late-June. If you’re backpacking in Istanbul around then, you shouldn’t pass this up. Only the slipperiest will survive to be crowned champion!
• Bursa – This is a great spot if you’re looking for sparser crowds and some more outdoor activities. Bursa, which was the original capital of the Ottoman Empire, has many notable attractions, like the Grand Mosque, the Green Mosque, and the very cool 600-year-old Inkaya tree. Don’t skip on eating at the Darüzziyafe either. Skiers should also know that nearby Uludag is considered the best ski resort in Turkey.
• Troy – Although it would be a very long trip from Istanbul, it is still possible to see the old ruins of Troy in a day. I will say right now that the ruins are not nearly as epic as some of Turkey’s other archaeological sites (or the movie for that matter), but they’re still humbling if you’re into the classics. The actual ruins are located in Tevfikiye near Canakkale.

Learn more about what to expect when visiting Istanbul by reading the following sections!

Best Time of Year to Visit Istanbul

The weather in Istanbul really throws me for a loop every time I visit. For some reason or another, I’m just never prepared for it. When I expect it to be pleasant, it’s humid as hell and hot. When I hope that it’s going to be balmy, it rains sideways and the wind comes howling down from the Black Sea.

That being said, there is no real bad time to be in Istanbul. The weather is surprising, yes, but I wouldn’t call it extreme except in the summer.

Istanbul is subject to four distinct seasons:

• Summers in Istanbul can be notoriously hot. Humidity can be oppressive and there seem to be few places of respite. Ask a local where you can cool off and they’ll probably point you to a pile of baking-hot boulders on the edge of the Bosphorus.
• Autumn is a very nice time of year to visit Istanbul. Temps are moderate although the rain does start to pick up a bit. I’d say that October is probably the best month of the year to be here.
• Winters in Istanbul are surprisingly frigid. Snow is not uncommon during this time of the year and the wind from the Bosphorus can really go to the bone. Also, Istanbul receives more rain than infamously grey cities like London and Brussels, which is not something that many people were aware of I think. Thankfully, nearly every hawker sells umbrellas.
• Springtime is a decent time to travel to Istanbul. The weather is pleasant again, albeit foggy at times. It can still rain quite a bit and snow can even occur in March. Also, take into consideration Ramadan. Though the city is generally secular, there are still plenty of Muslims in Istanbul that observes it.

Getting In and Out of Istanbul

I don’t think that I’ve ever visited a city with so many airports. At one point in time, there were three airports in Istanbul. Recently, one was closed so now there are only two in use: Sabiha and Istanbul International. FYI – you can take a transit tour from Istanbul airport if you have a layover there.

Sabiha is the oldest airport in Istanbul and probably the most frustrating to use. It’s located clear on the other side of the river on the edge of the Anatolian side of the city. It will take you at least an hour to get here from Istanbul proper by car and that is if the traffic is ok. There are direct buses to and from Sabiha but they will take even longer than a private transfer. Also, the airport just looks like a dystopian nightmare.

Note that if you’re flying low-cost domestically, chances are you’ll use Sabiha.

Istanbul International is the newest airport in town and was subject to quite a lot of media hype. It is what you’d expect from a modern airport: cavernous, sterile, and very commercial. If you’re commuting through this airport, be aware that it may take a lot of time to walk from gate to gate.

Getting to Istanbul International from the city isn’t much more pleasant than Sabiha. Buses and taxis are still the only options and commute times are going to be about the same: 45 minutes by car, 90 minutes by bus. (Oh how I miss the glory days of Ataturk Airport…)

For those who have flown into Istanbul internationally in the past, chances are you probably used the old airport, Ataturk. Ataturk was a nice airport and was relatively easy to get to, being only 20 or so minutes away from Sultanahmet. Alas, it is now completely closed down. Rest in peace Ataturk.

How to Get Around Istanbul

Istanbul is absolutely enormous. With over 15 million people , it is the most populous city in continental Europe and one of the top three in terms of land area. Getting around Istanbul will be a challenge but, with some savvy, you’ll still be able to see most of the top attractions.

There’s actually quite a lot of public transport in Istanbul. There are copious buses, a metro system, ferries across the Bosphorus, and street trams which are somewhat iconic of the city. If you get a good grasp on how these work, Istanbul will be at your beck and call.

The problem is that public transport is a bit cryptic at first. Signage is poor and routes are usually written in Turkish. Luckily, most transit is available to see on Google Maps. If I were you, I’d be sure to have a SIM card and to be connected as much as possible when trying to navigate.

To save some cash, I’d suggest buying an Istanbulkart. The way they’re set up is a little confusing (ticket prices go down the more you use it) but if you’re going to spend more than two days in Istanbul, you’ll end up saving money with one of these.

Due to its size, I highly recommend picking one part of Istanbul and sticking to it. You’d have to spend at least a week in Istanbul to see the entire city, both the European and Asian sides. Doing so in any less time would be nothing short of a herculean feat.

At the end of the day, taking a taxi is still the easiest way to get around. The local taxi app is called BiTaksi . My experiences with BiTaksi are mixed but they’re still much better than Uber. Uber in Istanbul is horrendous and overpriced.

Safety in Istanbul

Istanbul is a very large and very dynamic city. Life is accelerated, the streets are jam-packed with people, and everyone is just trying to get by. I like to say that, in Istanbul, chaos is served in the morning like a stiff cup of coffee and by that I mean it’s a necessary part of starting the day.

It is important to keep your wits about you when backpacking in Istanbul. Pickpockets will be active, scammers will be everywhere, and violence is not unheard of. To go into detail about each and every potential pitfall in the city would take a bit of time to thoroughly explain, so I’ll instead direct you to our Istanbul safety article and give the following advice:

Common sense and attentiveness are the surest ways to avoid trouble, no matter where you are. The easiest way to get out of a bad situation is to avoid it altogether. If shit looks sketch, then it probably is. Be cautious and aware of what’s going on around and trust your gut.

Be particularly cautious of scammers in Istanbul. Seriously, there are some very clever people in this city and they are very good at getting money out of unsuspecting tourists. The old “shoe shiner drops his brush and placates you with a sad story” is one of the oldest in the books. To avoid scams, keep an eye for overly-friendly people and situations that seem slightly “off.”

On a more political note, Istanbul and Turkey are often the recipients of bad press. Reports of corruption, economic collapse, and extremism are all normal it seems these days. It is important to remember that being a victim of something like terrorism is extremely rare. In reality, you’re more likely to be a victim of the petty crime mentioned earlier.

Travel Insurance for Istanbul

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Tips for Saving Money on Accommodation in Istanbul

Sometimes you need your own roof above your head – we know the feeling. Other times, you’re doing everything you can save a nickel and dime.

If you’re trying to cut the costs of travel when backpacking Istanbul, then maybe it’s time to stay somewhere besides a hostel or apartment. If you need to save money, try one of these:

Couchsurf! – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on cash when it comes to accommodation since most of the time you’re crashing for free. Staying with a local host is also a great chance to experience a more authentic side of the city and to visit hidden Istanbul.

Problem is Couchsurfing is really popular (duh, it’s free) and demand often outstrips supply. Hosts are picky as well so you’ll need to impress them with an eye-catching message. Definitely try Couchsurfing but be ready to be rejected.

Tap into your backpacker network – You never know when you have a friend in a foreign city! If you’ve traveled a lot, you may have met someone from Istanbul or know someone who knows someone.

Reach out to people! Ask to stay with people for a night or two in exchange for cooking dinner or a bottle of wine. If you don’t know anyone in the city, ask your friends if they do – travelers understand the struggle and are usually more helpful than you think.

Camping – Urban camping is a growing trend in many cities. These campsites are comfortable, sociable, safe, and cheap. They are often located on the outskirts of town, which means they are quieter too. Research to see if Istanbul has any and be sure to bring your own tent too!

Some Extra Free Things to Do in Istanbul

Looking to visit Istanbul on a budget? Consider one of these free activities in the city and save some cash!

• Certain mosques – Some of the finest mosques in Istanbul cost nothing to visit. The Blue Mosque, Zeyrek Camii, and Suleymaniye Mosque are all examples. You can enter some of these even if you aren’t a Muslim. Just be sure to visit outside of prayer hours.
• The bazaars – While I still think that the Grand Bazaar is a bit touristy, it is still a good way to kill time. You certainly won’t be lacking for stimulation or shop owners trying to win your attention. The Egyptian Bazaar is a good alternative (but still busy) and there’s an open-air market at Ortakoy on Sundays.
• Free museums – Some of the most prestigious museums in Istanbul offer free admission either on certain days or are always free regardless of the day of the week! Be sure to check out the official websites of the Elgiz Museum, Istanbul Modern, Dogancay, and Pera Museum to learn about free entry.
• The old walls of Constantinople – History buffs and Age of Empire fanatics will be happy to hear that some of the old Theodosian Walls still stand in Istanbul. There’s a good 500 meter stretch of wall near the Palace of the Porphyrogenitus that you can walk on if you like.
• Zülfaris Synagogue – Or the Quincentennial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews is free to enter for the public.
• Free walking tours of Istanbul – A good stroll is all it takes to become acquainted with a neighborhood; Istanbul has lots to choose from as well! Fener and Balat are popular areas to explore and one should definitely consider walking along the Bosphorus as well, particularly the bit between Ortokoy and Rumeli.

Books to Read Before Visiting Istanbul

If you need a little extra info to supplement our Istanbul travel guide, try reading one of these books on the city!

• The Bastard of Istanbul – An American-Armenian seeks to learn about her past and ends up living in Istanbul. Revelations of horrific events in the past will eventually reveal themselves.
• The Architect’s Apprentice – An exceptional animal tamer joins the inner Ottoman courts and takes an apprenticeship under the Sultan’s top architect.
• Istanbul: Memories and the City – From the immensely influential Turkish writer, Orhan Pamuk, this is a love letter to the city that raised him.
• The Time Regulation Institute – A surreal and somewhat dystopian commentary on the bureaucratic state of modern Turkey. Told from the perspective of Hayri Irdal as he interacts with the various characters that work at the Time Regulation Institute.
• The Janissary Tree – The first novel in Jason Goodwin’s Investigator Yashim series. This is Sherlock Holmes in Ottoman Istanbul.

The dining scene in Istanbul can be hit and miss depending on your food preferences. If you like grilled meats and lots of grains, you’ll be in your element. If you like lighter fare and/or you are a vegetarian, you will probably struggle in Istanbul.

The overwhelming majority of restaurants in Istanbul serve the best of Turkish food . This means kebabs , mezze , hearty vegetables, dolmas , pastries; things that make you want to crawl into a ball and fall into a food coma. In particular, carnivores will very much enjoy visiting Istanbul as just about everything is either roasted or grilled over an open fire.

If you don’t care for Turkish food, it’s going to be rough. Though there are some very good international restaurants in Istanbul, they are few and far in-between. Most of them are around the newer parts of town, around Taksim and Galata. DON’T stay in Sultanahmet if you want something other than Turkish food.

When visiting a Turkish restaurant, you should expect a typical European experience. You’re shown to a table, a waiter takes your order, food comes, etc, etc. Tipping is usually expected in Turkey, especially in finer venues. 5-10% should be fine.

If you’re backpacking in Istanbul on a budget, skip the restaurants. Instead, head to a food cart or a local lokanta , which is kind of like a blue-collar tavern with less drinking. Simit is a popular grab-n-go breakfast item and balik-ekmek (fish sandwich) is a local favorite. Who could pass up on ordering one of the most legendary dirtbag dishes either: the doner .

Nightlife in Istanbul

Istanbul is not Medina; it is not a bastion of religious conservatism that completely shuns the sins of the flesh. No, Istanbul loves to party.

You can find all of the usual suspects in Istanbul. Beer is common and the local favorite is Efes. Raki (an anis-based liqueur) is the official spirit of Turkey and is often served after dinner with some ice. Turkish wine ain’t too shabby either and ranges from fruity, red Karasakiz to floral, white Narince .

The epicenter of Istanbul nightlife is Beyoglu. Clubs, DJ sets, and live music venues all pump out some serious soundwaves here, the aftershocks of which are usually felt long into the morning. Most of these joints are hidden in the alleyways adjoining Istiklal Street.

The alleyways of Beyoglu can be really fun to wander around at night. Each has its own crowd, which makes them feel like little neighborhoods unto themselves. After a few drinks, it can be very easy to get lost in these though.

Generally speaking, the closer you get to Taksim Square, the more upscale the bars become. Further along, Ortakoy is also quite well known for its glamorous bars and clubs.

I personally enjoyed the nighttime vibes around Galata Tower. There were mostly lowkey cafes around this area, which was a nice respite after hectic days of exploring Istanbul. Note that the establishments directly next to the Galata Tower are busier and more touristy. You have to walk a bit to find diamonds-in-the rough, like Smyrna Art Cafe.

If you want to get high, then hash is relatively easy to find. Don’t buy it yourself – enlist the help of a local you trust. Averages prices are $5-$10 for a gram.

Visiting Istanbul may not always be easy, but is still easy to love this city. This is one of the most dynamic, storied, and thrilling cities in Europe to visit. I’ve been there several times and I’m always finding something new to do there on top of visiting superlatives like the Hagia Sophia.

Istanbul can be a bit of a mess at times; with its dynamism also comes chaos, speed, and a general sense of stupor. Those backpacking in Istanbul for the first time may feel a little lost in the beginning, but with this guide in hand, the city will be much more accessible. Istanbul is one of my favorite cities in the world, a feeling that I hope wasn’t lost over the course of the article, and I want others to experience it as I do.

Istanbul is just the beginning. Turkey is an amazing country and deserves to be explored as well. Once you’ve wrapped up the Turkish capital, be sure to make plans to see the likes of Cappadocia, the Turquoise Coast, and Mt Ararat. You won’t regret it

Before wrapping up this Istanbul travel guide, there are a few more matters that I want to discuss regarding responsibility and potentially staying in Istanbul long term. Please take a moment to consider these things.

Volunteering in Istanbul

Long term travel is awesome. Giving back is awesome too. For backpackers looking to travel long-term on a budget in Istanbul whilst making a real impact on local communities look no further than Worldpackers . Worldpackers is an excellent platform  connecting travelers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world.

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

Backpackers can spend long periods of time volunteering in an awesome place without spending any money. Meaningful life and travel experiences are rooted in stepping out of your comfort zone and into the world of a purposeful project.

Worldpackers opens the doors for work opportunities in hostels, homestays, NGOs, and eco-projects around the world. We’ve tried and approved them ourselves – check out our Worldpackers in-depth review here.

If you’re ready to create a life-changing travel experience and give back to the community, join the Worldpacker community now. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Make Money Online While Backpacking in Istanbul

Traveling in Austria long-term? Keen to make some cash when you are not exploring the country?

Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection.

Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills!

It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start  teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online,  TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on  teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with  MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Being a Responsible Traveler in Istanbul

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in landfill or in the ocean. Instead, pack a  tough travel water bottle .

Go and watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix – it’ll change how you view the plastic problem in the world; you need to understand what we are up against. If you think it doesn’t matter, get off my fucking site.

Don’t pick up single-use plastic bags, you’re a backpacker – take your daypack if you need to go to the shop or run errands.

Bear in mind, that many animal products in countries you travel through will not be ethically farmed and won’t be of the highest quality. I’m a carnivore but when I’m on the road, I only eat chicken. Mass-farming of cows etc leads to the rainforest being cut down – which is obviously a huge problem.

Need more guidance? – Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

Visiting Istanbul will bring you ample opportunities to participate in debauchery, and it is very important to have fun, let loose, and get a bit wild at times. Most trips I have been on across the world have included at least a few mornings where I wake up knowing I went too far.

But there are some things that will put you in the category of a straight-up jackass if you do them. Being super loud and obnoxious in a tiny hostel at 3 AM is a classic rookie mistake. Everyone in the hostel will hate you when you wake them up. Show your fellow travelers respect whilst traveling in Istanbul and anywhere else for that matter!

Istanbul is a beautiful place that has touched countless people, so let’s not mistreat it. It clearly inspired the makers of this video, which, not gonna lie, has made me cry (only) a few times.

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Hello, Ralph. You put interesting information in this article.

But I had a bad experience in Istanbul and I don’t recommend a trip to this city.

I landed on the night of 10/17/2022 at Istanbul Airport (IST). Before the flight, I purchased a transfer service through Booking.com for the transfer from the airport to the hotel, for 32 pounds sterling.

Upon arrival at the airport, I did not meet the driver at the agreed location (exit 13) and spoke with a driver who was there. I showed him the name and phone number of the person who was supposed to pick me up. He called then and on the other end of the line someone impersonated the driver who was supposed to pick me up, saying that there was a mistake and that I should make the ride with the one I had found. A price of 3590.00 Turkish Lira was placed and payment would be accepted by credit card. As I was very tired, it was late at night and I didn’t know the rate of the Turkish lira, I accepted it. On leaving the airport, the local called a colleague to accompany the trip.

On the way, they stopped at the first ATM and I was forced to withdraw the money. At that moment, I saw that it was a coup and that my life was in danger. Upon arriving at the hotel, I took a photo of the license plate and asked the receptionists for help. I couldn’t sleep that night. The next morning I went to the tourist police station. I told the policeman what had happened and he only said that he would contact the owner of the vehicle and talk to him about returning the money.

On the night of 10/19/2022, a representative of the vehicle owner went to the hotel and the hotel manager brokered the contact and negotiation. The two, representative and manager, said it would only fit me 85.00 euros as there would be fees to cover. I paid the equivalent of 225.00 euros for the criminal race and received only 85 euros at the end. No policial report was registered. I was coerced and robbed. This is all completely absurd. Crime and impunity prevail there. Uber doesn’t work in the city and the hotel manager said there is a big mafia in car transport at Istanbul airport.

I hired a guide for a walking tour of the historic center, but he didn’t show up. I paid for a laundry at the hotel to deliver clean and ironed clothes but they only delivered clean ones. They always try to overcharge you for anything. It’s really annoying that you have to keep checking and confirming things all the time. You cannot trust.

People are not friendly and polite like in other places. The food is not that attractive and delicious.

Anyway… What would have been a few days of tour and resting has become a very negative experience.

Tourism is done with transparency, honesty and trust. I left Istanbul sad and very disappointed. I don’t recommend this city and Turkey to anyone. There are certainly better options.

Things like this can happen anywhere and are not specific to Turkey, however this is a good reminder to travellers of things to look out for.

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Istanbul Itinerary: Your Insider’s 2024 Guide

This four-day Istanbul itinerary will help you to see the highlights and off-the-beaten-path treasures of Turkey’s largest city. Istanbul is an exotic city like no other.

The city straddles the continents of both Asia and Europe. Its architecture, cuisine, and culture are an interesting juxtaposition of East meet West.

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Istanbul is a perfect example of a country where modern living meets centuries-old traditions. This Istanbul itinerary will help you discover it.

A Little History of Istanbul

A common misconception is that Istanbul is Turkey’s capital. That isn’t true.

Turkey’s capital is actually Ankara, which awaits in the country’s Anatolia province. However, Istanbul is the largest city in the country.

The city was formerly known as Constantinople and Byzantium. Its history stems back over 8,000 years, making it one of the oldest continually occupied settlements in Europe and Asia.

Various civilisations have occupied Istanbul over the millennia. Each has left its mark on the city and affected its gastronomy, culture, and architecture today.

The Byzantines constructed intricate palaces and churches in Istanbul and adorned them with vividly coloured mosaics and frescoes. Meanwhile, the Ottomans crafted beautiful imperial mosques with stunning minarets that reached out to the skies.

The combination of the two influences has created one of the world’s most unique and beautiful skylines. Embarking on an Istanbul itinerary is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

An Istanbul itinerary means wandering through the narrow passageways of labyrinth-style souks, past fragrant spice stalls, colourful markets, and quaint tea rooms. Istanbul has a little something for everyone, whatever your interests and travel style.

Four Day Istanbul Itinerary Highlights

Truth be told, a four-day Istanbul itinerary is not enough to even scratch the surface of this huge megalopolis. You could easily spend a month here and still be discovering new sites, restaurants, and districts every day.

However, for a first-time introduction, a four-day Istanbul itinerary is a good start. Istanbul makes a nice alternative city break destination but it is best enjoyed as part of a wider Turkey itinerary .

Highlights of experiencing Istanbul for the first time are plentiful. A handful is discussed below.

• Exploring the various neighborhoods of Istanbul and discovering their unique, quirky personalities
• Sampling traditional Turkish street food delicacies – from islak burgers to salep
• Wandering the passageways of the infamous Grand Bazaar and haggling with local vendors
• Reveling in the peacefulness and serenity of Büyükada and the Princes Islands
• Sipping apple tea in the narrow passageways of the marketplaces
• Enjoying an indulgent spa treatment at a Turkish hammam
• Witnessing majestic architectural wonders such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque up close and personal
• Visiting fascinating historical sites and museums with the Istanbul museum pass
• Seeing the city from the water on a Bosphorus Cruise as the sun dips behind the horizon
• Getting off the beaten path in Istanbul and visiting traditional islands and beach towns

Recommended Istanbul Tours

Navigating your way through your Istanbul itinerary independently is a wonderful and rewarding experience. The city is easy to get around on foot, by cab, and by public transport .

However, opting to explore the city with a local guide can help you get your bearings when you arrive here for the first time. Istanbul is a behemoth of a city and it can be hard to decipher where one neighborhood ends and another begins.

Exploring with a local means that you have an Istanbul “expert” on hand. They will be able to take you to offbeat places that you never would have found independently and provide you with recommendations on the best places to hang out.

If you are interested in doing an Istanbul tour, it is a good idea to do it early on in your trip . That way, you will have lots of recommendations of places to visit for the rest of your trip.

A number of reputable Istanbul tours are detailed below. It is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

• Best of Istanbul in one day tour
• Istanbul Food and culture tour: Taste of two continents
• Galata guided walking tour and tower entry
• Istanbul: two sides of the city half-day bike tour
• Three-hour evening food tour in Kadikoy
• Taste of Istanbul private food tour

Istanbul Itinerary Day One: Sultanahmet

Istanbul’s main tourist district is the central Sultanahmet neighborhood. Day one of this four-day Istanbul itinerary entails a lot of walking so Strap on your comfiest walking shoes and let’s get to it!

T his neighbourhood can easily be covered in a day.

Start the Day with a Turkish Breakfast  (“Kahvalti”) 

Exploring the local food culture should be as much a part of your Istanbul itinerary as roaming the various streets and neighbourhoods. Turkish breakfast, or “kahvalti” is the standard way in which breakfast is served across the country.

Kahvalti is served tapas-style. It consists of dozens of little plates and dishes serving an array of fresh cheeses, green and black olives, fruit preserves, and sweet jars of honey.

The centerpiece of the dish is usually eggs with sucuk sausages. This is accompanied by a cucumber and tomato salad seasoned with salt.   

It is likely that your hotel will serve up some form of kahvalti each day during your Istanbul itinerary. If not, there are plenty of locally adored places to add to your radar.

For the best of the best, stop by the chic Mangerie restaurant in Bebek (Bebek, Cevdet Paşa Cd. No:69, 34342 Beşiktaş ) , or trendy Çakmak Kahvaltı Salonu (Sinanpaşa, Çelebi Oğlu Sk. No:8, 34353 Beşiktaş ) in Beşiktaş.

If you want breakfast with a view, head to scenic Aşşk Kahve (Kuruçeşme, Muallim Naci Cd. No:64 D:B, 34330 Beşiktaş/ ) . This gorgeous spot sits right by the waterfront of the Bosphorus.

Visit the Blue Mosque    

The breathtaking blue mosque is one of Istanbul’s main tourist attractions. It is important to get here as early as you can if you want to avoid the crowds.

Getting here before 9 am means that you can have less than approximately 496,458 people in the background of your photos. The mosque is named Sultanahmet Camii in Turkish.

It was awarded its title on account of the beautiful delicate blue tiles that decorate its interior. It is guaranteed to take your breath away, regardless of how many mosques and other religious buildings you may have visited before.

Advice for Visiting the Blue Mosque

It’s important to dress modestly when visiting mosques in Turkey. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and women should cover their hair.

Free scarves can be borrowed at the entrance to the mosque grounds. Shoes must be taken off to go into the mosque interiors.

When approaching the blue mosque, ignore all of the toots that tell you that they will help you to skip the line. They will only try and take you to their bazaar or sell you something.

Follow the standard entrance. The blue mosque is free to enter.

Admire the Beauty of the Hagia Sophia

The marvelous Hagia Sophia is located directly across the courtyard from the entrance to the Blue Mosque. The site was once a Byzantine church and then an Ottoman mosque.

For years, the site operated as a museum containing various artifacts that depict Istanbul’s rich and diverse history. However now, once again, work is underway to transform the structure back into a mosque.

The original building was built all the way back in the year 337. It started operating as a place of religious worship in 537.

At one point, the Hagia Sophia was the largest building in the world. Many remnants from the building’s former religious functions still remain.

This includes elaborate, colourful stained glass windows from its time as a church, and ornate, inscribed minarets and domes from its time as a mosque. If there was a “must visit” during your Istanbul itinerary, visiting the Hagia Sophia would be it.

Check Out the Sultanahmet Square

Istanbul’s Sultanahmet square is abuzz with touristic restaurants, tea rooms, and coffee shops. The area is particularly lively around lunch and dinner times.

It is generally recommended to avoid dining and drinking here. Restaurants here are often triple the price for half the quality that you can expect in “local” areas. However, the square is certainly worth a short exploration.

The Sultanahmet square was the main place for events and gatherings when the city was known as “Constantinople”. Chariot races were even conducted here.

The sunbleached, crumbling remnants of the city’s former defensive walls outline what remains of the 2000-year-old hippodrome. There are a few notable structures to look out for here.

Don’t miss the serpent’s column, the obelisk of Thutmose III, and the German fountain. The Obelisk was originally constructed in Luxor.

However, it was stolen and moved to Istanbul in 390. It is said that the towering obelisk that remains today is actually only ⅓ of its original height!

Experience the Eerie Basilica Cistern

Istanbul’s eerie Basilica Cistern leads travellers deep underground, to what feels like another city entirely. The cistern was constructed by the Byzantines in 532 and gained its name as a result of its location.

It was originally built beneath the Stoa Basilica. The Basilica Cistern was used to service the great palaces and religious buildings throughout the city.

After the Byzantine Emperors relocated, it was abandoned and forgotten. That is, until the 15th century when the Ottomans rediscovered it

They then used it as a dumping ground for bodies and other gruesome garbage. Today, the Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul’s main tourist attractions and it provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history.

While inside, be sure to check out the creepy stone Medusa heads that support some of the cistern pillars. Nobody is quite sure how they got there…

Browse Eccentric Exhibits at Topkapi Palace

For hundreds of years, Topkapi Palace was the place of residence for Ottoman Sultans and royalty. The castle exudes opulence and grandeur at every turn.

The structure is incredibly well preserved and today it operates as a “living museum”. The various rooms and annexes at the palace still display the rich tapestries, elaborate artwork, and decadent furnishings that were enjoyed and used by Ottoman rulers.

Every time a new Sultan inhabited the palace, he added a new section. Over hundreds of years, this has paved the way for an unusual, labyrinth-style outlay.

Tour the Topkapi Palace Harem

A fascinating section of Topkapi Palace that should not be missed is the harem. These are the quarters where the wives of the Sultans lived, along with their mothers and concubines.

The treasury contains an exhibition hall where peculiar holy relics are on display. Here you will find the footprint of Prophet Mohammed and the Staff of Moses.

It is debatable whether these relics are genuine or not. However, since they were awarded as gifts to the Sultans, they are worth a visit nonetheless.

You can easily spend an entire day exploring the palace. Its history is very interesting and if you want to learn about the building and its royal occupants, you may want to consider a Topkapi Palace tour.

The harem is separated from the main site and generally requires separate admission and tour. However, this tour is comprehensive, interesting, and includes admission to both sites. 

Recommended Topkapi Palace Tours

• Topkapi Palace history tour
• Hagia Sofia & Topkapi Palace combo ticket
• Topkapi Palace skip-the-line ticket and audio tour
• Topkapi Palace guided tour and skip-the-line

Wander Through the Bustling Souks of Istanbul

The Grand Bazaar may be a little touristic and inauthentic as far as Turkish markets go, but it is well worth a visit during your Istanbul itinerary. Virtually every item imaginable can be purchased here.

Pretty much every item you can think of is for sale here. Stalls sell intricately-woven Turkish carpets, scarves, and tapestries, to colourful Arabian lanterns and sticky sweet trays of baklava .

The rabbit-warren style layout is what makes the Grand Bazaar special. The market dates back to the 1400s.

To this day, it maintains the title of being the largest covered market in the world. The Grand Bazaar contains thousands of stores and tea rooms tucked away across over 60 passageways.

You should expect to haggle while shopping here. Never take the first price offered as it will be severely inflated.

If you are looking to buy clothing and souvenirs, it is advisable to wait until you are in a less touristic area. When haggling , aim for at least 30% lower than the initially quoted price.

It is customary for Turkish store owners to invite you in for a cup of apple tea as you shop. You are not obligated to buy anything if you accept.

However, it sometimes causes more pressure to buy. So think carefully if you really want to consume that delicious but questionably fluorescent green beverage.

Taste Test at the Istanbul Spice Market

Follow the path from the Grand Bazaar towards the Istanbul Spice Market. The colourful stalls here are incredibly photogenic .

They display mounds of spices, dates, and nuts in every colour of the rainbow. They also create an excellent opportunity for edible window shopping.

Sample dried and candied dates, and a diverse range of flavours of Turkish delight (“Lokum”). Rose and Pistachio are “classic” flavours and will capture the hearts of even those who purport to hate Turkish delight.

Check out the Istanbul Archeology Museum (Optional)

If your schedule permits, you should also make time to visit the Istanbul Archeology Museum. This sits adjacent to Topkapi Palace.

The museum i s often overlooked on many people’s Istanbul itineraries. However, it contains a collection of some of the most important classical artifacts of European history, including the sarcophagus of Alexander the Great!

There are approximately one million artifacts contained within the exhibits here. The museum is open every day.

Admission is 60 Turkish Lira per person. However, it is free to holders of a Museum Card.

Istanbul Itinerary Day Two: Cosmopolitan Istanbul

Day one of your four-day Istanbul itinerary may have been dedicated to discovering the city’s historical sites. However, on day two, we will uncover some of the charming districts that make the city special.

Each of Istanbul’s various neighbourhoods has its own distinct personality and charm. These areas are like little towns in themselves and an underrated highlight of the city.

Catch the Morning Fishermen at Karaköy

Indulge in your morning kahvalti, and then head to the waterfront at Karaköy. Here, you can catch dozens of fishermen who set up their equipment along the various bridges and piers of the harbor.

This is a great place for taking photos. Indeed, Karaköy is often featured in the classic postcard images of Istanbul.

On certain days of the week, Karaköy plays host to a fish market. This is interesting to observe and see vendors and restaurateurs haggle to obtain the best prices on the freshest catches.

Ascend Galata Tower for a Birds Eye View of Istanbul

Galata Tower is the place to go to enjoy breathtaking views of Istanbul. It is situated across the river from the city’s Sultanahmet district.

The 13th-century stone tower looks like a princess turret straight out of a fairytale. The turret stands at 54 feet high and is visible from most parts of the city.

It is worth climbing to the top to admire the panoramas. From up here, you can glance across to the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and the Hagia Sophia.  

The Galata tower almost always has a long queue outside it regardless of when you go. The viewing platform inside is small. However, the queue tends to move relatively quickly.

The cobbled streets of the quaint neighbourhood surrounding Galata tower are well worth exploring. They are filled with cute coffee shops, vintage clothing stores, and antique sellers.

Some of the places here are adorable and it’s like you are just sitting sipping tea in someone’s living room. Many have been featured in Turkish TV shows and movies.

Walk to Taksim Square

From Galata tower, follow Istiklal street down to Taksim square. This is Istanbul’s answer to the high street.

It is filled with everything from boutique stores to branches of international brands. Taksim Square awaits at the end. This is the heart of modern Istanbul and a great place to indulge in street food delicacies that you cannot find elsewhere in Turkey.

Treat Yourself to a “Wet” Hamburger

Grab an islak burger from one of the many street food vendors while you are in the area. Islak burgers are a Turkish street food delicacy that is only found in Istanbul.

The translation of the name actually means a “wet” hamburger. However, these are much more delicious than that nickname would have you believe! To create an Islak burger, a beef patty is cooked and served inside a soft white bun just like your regular burger. The difference comes when the entire thing is then doused in sauce.

The entire burger and bun are dipped in a delicious garlicky, tomato sauce that could be compared to Italian ragu. Then, the burger is kept in a steam box to preserve the moisture until someone orders it.

There are only 2-3 places in the city that serve these. They are bite-sized so you don’t have to feel too guilty if you want to go back for a second or third!

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

One of the most magnificent ways to see Istanbul as the sun sets is from the waterfront on a Bosphorus cruise. There are an array of options available for booking this pleasant boating experience.

Your best bet is to book a ticket in advance. Indeed, you can reserve your place on a cruise online before you arrive in Istanbul.

The vendors in the Sultanahmet district charge extortionate, heavily-inflated prices for the cruise. Sure this is a relatively touristy thing to do. However, it gets you close to sites like the maiden’s tower which you would not otherwise be able to make it to.

Not to mention, seeing Istanbul from the water provides a unique perspective and makes for an incredible photo opportunity, particularly at sunset. Bosphorus cruises vary wildly in price depending on the package that you go for so consider your budget accordingly.

Wooden boats lead along the Bosphorus strait and sell tickets for as little as 10 lire (£2/$2.50). Meanwhile, more luxurious cruises cost much more but feature traditional Turkish meals and entertainment.

Assured, a cruise with dinner and drinks is well worth the price. Many also feature additional live entertainment such as whirling dervish performances or belly dancers.

Bosphorous Cruises

A selection of reputable Bosphorus Cruises offered by local tour companies is detailed below. It is advisable to reserve your place in advance to avoid disappointment.

• Istanbul Bosphorus music and dinner cruise with a private table
• Bosphorus sunset cruise on a luxury yacht
• Bosphorus night dinner cruise
• Daytime Bosphorus sightseeing cruise from the old city
• Istanbul Golden Horn and Bosphorus boat tour

Istanbul Itinerary Day Three: The Princes Islands

The Princes Islands provide a pleasant contrast to the constant hubbub and traffic-jammed streets of Istanbul. This is an archipelago of islands in the Sea of Marmara.

They can be reached within an hour’s boat ride from Istanbul’s Kadikoy port. Head to Kadikoy early in the morning to take one of the early ferries that depart Istanbul for Büyükada.

This is the largest of the Princes’ Islands and the one you should prioritise if your time in Turkey is limited . As your boat pulls off from the jetty, you can enjoy wonderful views of Istanbul’s skyline from the water, as well as views of the golden horn.

Büyükada Island

Arriving in Büyükada feels almost like stepping back in time. There are no cars or vehicles allowed on the island and so everyone gets around on horseback or by bicycle.

In many ways, it is reminiscent of the little island of Hydra in Greece . There are many places at the port where you can rent a bicycle for the day.

This is a pleasant way to get around. However, hiking is also very enjoyable. The trails here are well-paved and manageable for walkers of all ages and abilities.

The Büyükada trails lead you through beautiful woodland, past quaint historic Greek Orthodox churches, and incredible nature. Don’t miss the Hagios Giorgios Monastery which is situated at the highest point of the island.

There is also a creepy abandoned Greek orphanage in the centre of the forest. If you are visiting during the summer months, you can also enjoy the pristine beaches that are situated on the island.

Princess Bay Beach, Hagia Nikola Beach, and Halik Bay Beach are among the most popular coastal areas. There are a few excellent restaurants and coffee shops situated by the port and in the centre of the island.

They make a great place to indulge in some traditional Turkish food when you want a break from walking/cycling. If you prefer to take some of the stress out of managing the logistics of your trip, you can also visit the Princes islands on an organised day trip from Istanbul .

Recommended Princes Islands Tours

• Büyükada full-day walking tour
• Full-day Princes Islands tour with lunch
• Princes Islands trip with electric car tour and lunch

Istanbul Itinerary Day Four: Anadolu Kavağı Village

The village of Anadolu Kavağı is a charming place to spend a day during your four-day Istanbul Itinerary. It is located at the narrowest point of the Bosphorus. However, it is still technically within the city limits of Istanbul.

Here, you can get an alternative view of life in Turkey away from the hectic streets of central Istanbul. Anadolu Kavağı is easily reachable via ferry from Kadıköy port.

The wooden houses that line the waterfront of Anadolu Kavağı are painted in delicate pastel shades. Nestled among them are charming restaurants and coffee shops that offer picture-perfect views over the water as you dine.

Follow the pathways through the narrow streets and alleys towards the castles of Yoros and Genoa. The castles are situated on top of a hill and sit adjacent to a “secret” garden which offers incredible views across to the black sea.

Istanbul Itinerary: When to Travel to Istanbul

The Spring and Autumn months are the best time to visit Istanbul and plan your four-day Istanbul itinerary. During these seasons, the temperatures are warm and pleasant without becoming overbearingly hot and humid.

Expect comfortable temperatures of between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius during the Spring and Autumn period. There will also be fewer tourists than during the peak summer months.

Spring and Autumn are officially the “shoulder” seasons for travelling to Istanbul. However, they carry the added benefit of lower prices for flights and accommodation and fewer crowds at popular sites.

Istanbul can get very cold in the winter and snowfall is not unheard of. During the summer months, it becomes very hot and humid.

Temperatures often soar well over 30-35 degrees Celsius and it becomes very unpleasant to spend extended periods of time exploring outside. At this time, the prices of tours, hotels, and flights are all at an all-time high.

Istanbul Itinerary: Where to Stay in Istanbul

Istanbul boasts a plethora of accommodation options for all budgets and travel styles. There is something for everyone here – whether you prefer to stay in absolute luxury or you are looking for hostel-style accommodation where you can meet other travellers.

Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar

Sultanahmet is the historic centre of Istanbul. This is the oldest part of the city and it is still encapsulated by the crumbling remnants of its ancient protective walls in some parts.

Opting to stay here during your Istanbul itinerary places you in close proximity to the city’s main tourist sites. For instance, the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace to name but a few.

Sultanahmet may be a touristic district. However, it retains its charm with its winding streets and eclectic bazaars. You can find hotel rooms here for $10-15 per night. Many of Istanbul’s best backpacker hostels are also found here. The only downside to staying in Sultanahmet is that most of the restaurants and cafes here are tourist traps.

If you’re a foodie looking to sample high-quality traditional Turkish food during your trip, you should venture out of this neighborhood for mealtimes. A selection of excellent Sultanahmet hotels worth your consideration is detailed below.

• Kardiga Antik Hotel – luxury without the luxury price tag
• Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel Istanbul – Exquisite 5* luxury in the heart of Istanbul
• The Print House Hotel – Quirky, personable rooms in a converted print house
• Santa Sophia Hotel – Cosy, eclectic, quintessentially Turkish lodgings

Karaköy makes a great base for any Istanbul itinerary. This area is located right on the waterfront.

So, many of the hotels and apartments here offer incredible views over the Bosphorus. This area has also emerged as one of Istanbul’s trendiest and chicest districts in recent years.

The streets of Karaköy are filled with independent boutiques, quirky coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. Karaköy is close enough to Istanbul’s main attractions that it is easy to get around.

Yet it is “offbeat” enough that it provides a glimpse into more authentic “local” life in Istanbul. A selection of excellent Karaköy hotels worth your consideration is detailed below.

• Hostel Le Banc – Budget backpacker choice in Karaköy
• Hotel Des Arts Galata – Gorgeous boutique design hotel
• Historic Galata – Artsy accommodation in a peaceful area

Galata and its namesake tower are just north of Sultanahmet. This is a great place to base yourself during your Istanbul itinerary in order to be in close proximity to the main tourist sites.

The winding cobblestone pathways are home to plenty of excellent shopping and dining choices. Galata is actually part of Istanbul’s Beyoglu district.

However, it is preferable to choose this part of town over Taksim Square and Istiklal Street which can get a little rowdy at night. A selection of reputable Galata hotels has been shortlisted below for your consideration.

Istanbul Itinerary Final Thoughts

Unfortunately, Istanbul is currently working hard to beat away a reputation it obtained as being a “dangerous” travel destination. The 2016 Sultanahmet bombing and a recent military coup have both not helped the city’s global image.

All things considered, the local authorities have done their best to try and reassure international travelers in recent years. Security procedures at airports and various tourist sites have been improved. Most visits to Istanbul are trouble-free.

Have any questions about this Istanbul itinerary, seeing Turkey as a solo female traveler , things to do in Turkey or just travel in general? Feel free to reach out to me below or drop me an email!

highheelsandabackpack

Great wrote up. Much thanks. Perfect for my four day trip

Thanks Raj! Hope you have a fab time! xo

Bro you have included all the main tourist attractions in just one day . You got some limited edition days ? My days are only 24 hours .

“Bro” the itinerary is perfectly achievable considering the proximity of all of the places and the fact I did this myself. If you don’t like it “bro”, create your own instead of trolling online.

Hi Which area has the best budget accommodation and food?

Wow, what a great guide! Thank you Melissa! I have to plan for a 4 day trip and was stressing out but this really helped me! Cheers!

P.S. I’m still LOL’ing at the comment addressing you as “bro”!

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Your Travel Guide for Istanbul

Istanbul, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is Turkey’s largest city with a population of over 15 million. It’s renowned for its historic sites like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, while also being a bustling modern metropolis. Istanbul welcomes around 13 million tourists annually, offering a unique mix of cultures, cuisines, and experiences. Tourists can savor delicious Turkish cuisine, explore iconic historical sites, enjoy warm hospitality, shop in vibrant bazaars, immerse themselves in a diverse culture, and experience a lively nightlife scene.

Get ready for your trip

• Discover the best time to visit
• Book your flight
• Find the best place to stay in Istanbul
• Make a list of top places to see
• Learn how to get an IstanbulKart and how to use public transport
• Get your Museum Pass for Istanbul
• Find out how to get from Istanbul Airport to Taksim
• Discover the best Street Food in Istanbul
• Learn more about the Istanbul Must-Eats
• Find the best Night Clubs
• Discover where to get the best Turkish Breakfast in Istanbul

Learn more about Istanbul

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Kız Kulesi: Everything you need to know about the beautiful tower in the Bosphorus

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Sultanahmet: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do

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Practical things to know before visiting istanbul, planning the trip.

• Spend 3-4 Days Exploring Istanbul When visiting Istanbul, allocate at least 3-4 days to get a proper introduction to this vast city and see its main attractions. Istanbul’s endless neighborhoods, ferry trips, museums, and dining options mean you could easily extend your stay beyond a week.
• Pre-Book Your Accommodation Hotel booking platforms like Booking.com might not work in Turkey, so it’s wise to browse and secure your lodging in advance. This is especially vital during the peak season (June to August) when nicer hotels tend to sell out early, and prices can surge. Find the best hotels in Taksim !
• Avoid Renting a Car Istanbul’s traffic can be chaotic, making it unnecessary to rent a car within the city. The public transportation system, which includes the metro, trams, buses, and ferries, is affordable and dependable. Google Maps is a valuable tool for planning routes.
• Choose Comfortable Footwear For extensive walking and standing, wear comfortable, well-broken-in shoes. Leave heels at home and opt for trainers, especially if you plan to use public transport.
• Stay Away from Mosques If You’re a Light Sleeper Mosques in Istanbul may issue calls to prayer as early as 4 am. To ensure a peaceful night’s sleep, consider booking accommodation away from mosques if you’re a light sleeper.
• Be Mindful of Banned Websites Certain websites, including PayPal, Wikipedia, and Booking.com, may be inaccessible in Turkey. Plan your online activities accordingly, and consider using a VPN.

Getting around

• Use Public Transport from the Airports For convenience and speed, opt for public transport options like shuttle buses or the metro when arriving at Istanbul’s airports. They provide direct access to areas like Taksim and the city center. Learn more about how to get from Istanbul Airport to Taksim .
• Invest in an Istanbul Kart Consider purchasing an Istanbul Kart for public transportation. It offers significantly reduced fares compared to single tickets and can be used by up to five people, making it a cost-effective choice for groups. Find out how to get an Istanbulkart and the prices !
• Use Taxi Apps Istanbul offers various types of taxis at different price points, but it’s safer to use taxi apps to avoid scams and ensure reliability.
• Enjoy Local Ferries Rather than splurging on a Bosphorus cruise, take advantage of affordable local ferries to enjoy similar scenic views. Ferries criss-cross the Bosphorus, offering a more budget-friendly way to experience the city’s waterways.

While you are there

• Combine Cards and Cash While credit/debit cards are widely accepted in Istanbul, smaller shops, street food vendors, and certain restaurants may prefer cash. Carry small bills for tipping and to meet card purchase limits in some stores.
• Be Prepared for Hills Istanbul is known as the “City on the Seven Hills,” so expect steep streets, especially in areas like Beyoglu, Balat, and around the Galata Tower. Comfortable shoes and water are essential for navigating the hilly terrain.
• Consider Tourist Passes Invest in tourist passes like the Istanbul Museum Pass or E-Pass for skip-the-line access to major cultural institutions. These passes are particularly beneficial if you plan to visit multiple attractions. Learn more about the Museum Pass !
• Start Early to Beat Crowds To avoid crowds, especially during the summer, start your day early and arrive at popular landmarks when they open. The metro operates as early as 6 am, making it easy to get around in the early morning.
• English Is Limited While English is spoken, it’s not as widespread as you might expect. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can be helpful, as not everyone you encounter will be fluent in English.
• Don’t Flush Toilet Paper Many places in Istanbul request that you dispose of toilet tissue in a bin rather than flushing it due to sensitive plumbing. Follow the posted instructions in restrooms.
• Beware of Scams Be cautious of potential scams, such as overcharging in restaurants and cab rides. Double-check your bills and use reputable services to avoid unwanted surprises.
• Remember to Tip Tipping is common in Turkey, and it’s customary to tip between 5-10% of the bill in restaurants, with higher-end dining often warranting a 10-15% tip. Always tip in cash.

Is Istanbul expensive?

Istanbul’s affordability for travelers has evolved over the years. While it used to be very cheap, it is still relatively budget-friendly compared to many other European cities. However, the cost of your trip can vary significantly depending on your preferences and choices. In recent years, Istanbul has seen an increase in prices for various aspects of travel, from accommodation and transportation to groceries and entertainment. This increase can be attributed to several factors, including Turkey’s currency devaluation, foreign trade deficit, negative interest rates, and the Russian war in Ukraine, all contributing to rising prices.

The good news is that you can experience Istanbul on a budget and still have an enjoyable trip. Accommodation, public transport, and local food can be quite affordable while offering a rich cultural experience. Additionally, purchasing a museum pass for around $75 can cover most of the city’s attractions, making it a cost-effective way to explore Istanbul’s history and culture.

Ultimately, the cost of your trip will depend on your choices regarding dining, accommodation, and the activities and attractions you decide to explore. Many international visitors still view Istanbul as one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, which is why the city continues to attract millions of travelers each year.

Where to stay in Istanbul?

When deciding where to stay in Istanbul, it’s essential to consider your preferences and priorities. The city offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and accommodations to suit different traveler needs. If you want to be at the heart of Istanbul’s historical and cultural attractions, Sultanahmet is an excellent choice. It’s home to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Meanwhile, Taksim Square in Beyoglu is perfect for those who want a vibrant, bustling atmosphere with plenty of dining, shopping, and nightlife options. If you prefer a more tranquil and charming setting, consider the historic neighborhoods of Balat or Kadikoy, known for their picturesque streets, local markets, and waterfront views.

Overview of the best places to stay in Istanbul

• Sultanahmet : This is where you’ll find Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, making it an ideal choice for history enthusiasts. Accommodations here range from luxury hotels with stunning views of the Bosphorus to charming boutique hotels.
• Taksim/Beyoglu : If you want a lively atmosphere, Taksim is the place to be. It’s packed with restaurants, bars, and shops. Choose from trendy boutique hotels, international chains, or budget-friendly hostels.
• Sirkeci : Located near Sultanahmet, Sirkeci offers a convenient location for exploring historic sites. You’ll find a mix of international chain hotels and charming boutique options.
• Galata : Galata is famous for its historic tower and the trendy Karakoy neighborhood. Accommodations include boutique hotels with modern amenities and panoramic views.
• Ortaköy : Situated on the Bosphorus, Ortaköy is known for its vibrant nightlife and the iconic Ortaköy Mosque. You can choose from waterfront hotels and cozy guesthouses.
• Besiktas : This area is known for its waterfront, vibrant nightlife, and upscale shopping. You can stay in modern hotels or stylish boutique accommodations here.
• Balat : This historic district offers a taste of old Istanbul, with colorful houses and a relaxed vibe. You can find boutique hotels and guesthouses that provide a cozy, local experience.
• Kadikoy : Located on the Asian side, Kadikoy offers a more laid-back environment with a local feel. You’ll discover comfortable hotels and rental apartments, along with great local eateries.
• Üsküdar : On the Asian side, Üsküdar provides a more tranquil setting with beautiful views of the European side. Accommodations include waterfront hotels and comfortable guesthouses.

Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gökcen Airport?

For tourists, choosing between Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökcen Airport (SAW) depends on your destination within the city. Istanbul Airport, is located on the European side and is better connected with a frequent shuttle bus service and a shorter metro connection to the city center. Istanbul Airport offers around-the-clock shuttle buses to various tourist destinations. On the other hand, Sabiha Gökcen Airport, situated on the Asian side, has limited shuttle bus options to Kadiköy and Taksim, and the metro connection to Kadiköy takes almost an hour. Additionally, most international flights operated by Turkish Airlines land at Istanbul Airport. So, if you’re heading to the European side or looking for more transportation options, Istanbul Airport might be your preferred choice, while Sabiha Gökcen may be more convenient if you’re staying on the Asian side of the city.

More reads about Istanbul

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Best Things To Do In Istanbul Turkey 2023

Istanbul is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. With so much to see and do, planning a trip to this vibrant metropolis can be overwhelming. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, it is a destination that has something for everyone. To make the most of your time in this beautiful city, here are some of the top things to do in Istanbul:

Explore the Blue Mosque: 

The Blue Mosque is another iconic mosque in Istanbul, distinguished by its striking blue tilework and six minarets. Inside the mosque, visitors can view the intricate decoration and calligraphy. The mosque was constructed in the early 17th century by the Ottoman Sultan Ahmet I and is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks. Visitors are welcome, but the mosque is closed during prayer times. 

Explore the Galata Tower: 

According to the things to do in Istanbul,  The Galata Tower is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks and has played a significant role in the city’s history. It served as a watchtower for the city’s defenses and a lighthouse for Bosphorus vessels. It was converted into a fire watch and telecommunications tower in the 19th century. Visitors can ride an elevator to the tower’s summit to take panoramic views of Istanbul. From the highest point, one can see the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, the historic peninsula, and the contemporary city. This stone tower from the Middle Ages offers sweeping views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus Strait. Guests can also dine and imbibe at the tower’s rooftop restaurant. 

Explore the Grand Bazaar: 

The Grand Bazaar is among the world’s largest and oldest covered markets. Since the 15th century, this bustling market with over 60 streets and 4,000 shops has been operating. It is an excellent place to purchase souvenirs, spices, and Turkish carpets. The bazaar is located in the historic district of Istanbul, a labyrinth of narrow streets and small shops. The bazaar offers everything, from spices, textiles, and carpets to jewelry, pottery, and leather goods. 

Take a cruise on the Bosphorus: 

A cruise on the Bosphorus is a great way to see the city from a new vantage point and to get a feel for the bustling waterfront. Numerous cruises also include stops at various landmarks. Eminonu or Karakoy ferries offer breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the Asian and European shores. On a boat tour, you can also see the Bosphorus Bridge, Maiden’s Tower, and Ottoman palaces. 

Explore Hippodrome: 

According to the things to do in Istanbul, The Hippodrome of Constantinople is an important historical site that reveals Istanbul’s ancient past. It is a must-visit location for anyone interested in Istanbul’s and the Byzantine Empire’s history, as its monuments and ruins attest to the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. 

Explore Hagia Sophia: 

This Byzantine cathedral-turned-mosque-turned-museum is one of the most recognizable landmarks according to the things to do in Istanbul. The Hagia Sophia , constructed in the sixth century, is renowned for its enormous dome, intricate mosaics, and stunning architecture. The Hagia Sophia was a cathedral for 916 years and a mosque for 481 years before becoming a museum open to the public. The structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for all travelers to Istanbul. 

Try the Turkish Tea: 

Turkish tea is an essential part of Turkish culture and a must-do for any traveler to the country. It is a unique and delicious way to experience Turkish culture and hospitality, whether consumed in a traditional tea house, on the street, or in a restaurant.

Enjoy Turkish Food: 

Istanbul is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of authentic and delicious Turkish cuisine available. Kebab, baklava, Turkish delight, and meze platters are a few must-try dishes. Additionally, guests can enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast, which typically includes a selection of cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, and tea or coffee. 

Aimlessly wander the Egyptian bazaar: 

The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian bazaar, is located adjacent to the New Mosque in the Eminonu district. It is an excellent place to purchase spices, herbs, teas, and confections according to things to do in Istanbul. Additionally, the bazaar contains numerous small shops selling souvenirs and traditional Turkish goods. 

Walk the Bosphorus: 

The Bosphorus, a significant shipping route, separates Europe and Asia. The Bosphorus provides stunning views of the city, the strait, and the surrounding hills when strolled along. You can walk from the Galata Bridge to the Bosphorus Bridge along the seaside or vice versa. Along the route, you will see the magnificent Ottoman mansions, palaces, and fortifications that line the coastline. 

Visit the Taksim Square: 

Taksim Square is a central transportation hub of numerous political demonstrations and rallies. In addition, it is home to the Ataturk Cultural Center, a significant cultural complex with a theater, concert hall, and art galleries. Taksim Square is a great place to explore Istanbul due to its central location and proximity to restaurants, shops, and hotels. 

Explore the Topkapi Palace: 

For over 400 years, the Topkapi Palace was the primary residence of Ottoman sultans. The enormous palace complex comprises numerous buildings, courtyards, gardens, and a vast Ottoman art and artifacts collection. The palace was constructed in the fifteenth century and served as the heart of the Ottoman Empire for centuries. Numerous halls and rooms, including the Harem, the Treasury, and the Imperial Council Chamber, are accessible to visitors. 

Unwind in a conventional Turkish bath: 

When in Istanbul, a visit to a traditional Turkish bath, also known as a Hamam, is a must. These unique and relaxing bathhouses have been a part of Turkish culture for centuries. In addition to traditional scrubs and massages, guests can relax in hot and cold pools. The Caalolu Hamam, the Galatasaray Hamam, and the Süleymaniye Hamam are three of the most well-known Hamams in Istanbul. 

See the Dolmabahce Palace: 

According to things to do in Istanbul, the Dolmabahce Palace is a significant historical and cultural landmark that provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans. Anyone interested in the history and culture of Istanbul and the Ottoman Empire must visit this location. The palace has a lovely garden, where visitors can stroll and view the Bosphorus. If you love palaces, you can check out our Bangkok Travel Guide!

Travel to the Pillar of Constantine: 

The Pillar of Constantine is an important historical site for those interested in the ancient history of Istanbul and the Roman Empire. It is an intriguing and distinctive structure that serves as a reminder of the city’s rich and varied past. 

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This City Was the World's Most Visited in 2023

Twenty million people flew to Istanbul last year.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

There’s something distinctly magical about the soft light of Istanbul. The sun seems to hover in a totally different way there, casting what appears to be a forever golden hour glow. Perhaps that’s part of the reason more than 20 million people flew to the ancient Turkish city in 2023. 

Or, maybe it’s for sights like the Hagia Sophia. Or perhaps it’s to shop in the Grand Bazaar or stay in the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, voted the number one hotel in the world by Travel + Leisure readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards . And I mean, come on, of course, people also go for the baklava.  

Whatever the reason, people truly seem to be flocking to Istanbul. And those more than 20 million arrivals made it the number one city for international arrivals on earth in 2023, according to Euromonitor International’s World’s Top 100 City Destinations report. 

“International travel has continued to make a strong recovery in 2023, with 38 percent growth in terms of the number of trips, projected to reach 1.3 billion by the end of the year,” the report’s findings stated. “Istanbul tops the list for the number of International arrivals in 2023 with 26 percent growth year-on-year.” 

Istanbul was followed by London in second place for most international arrivals (up 17 percent) and Dubai in third (up 18 percent). Rounding out the top five is the beachside Turkish city of Antalya, followed by Paris in fifth. 

The report noted that a good deal of international travel’s recovery in 2023 can be credited to the return of Chinese international travel after that nation lifted its quarantine. In return, Hong Kong saw a massive resurgence in international arrivals too, marking a 2,495 percent increase in 2023. 

And 2024 may be a bigger year than ever for travel to Istanbul and the entire nation. In January, Turkey relaxed its visa requirements for North Americans (Canadians and Americans included), allowing them to travel visa-free for up to 90 days. “Americans vacationing in Türkiye no longer require a visa to visit what has become one of America’s favorite overseas travel destinations,” Go Türkiye previously shared with T+L. “2023 was the best year ever for American tourism to Türkiye, and with the cancellation of the visa requirement, 2024 is expected to be even bigger.”

The only downside is you’ll likely have to make reservations to all the must-see spots even earlier or wait in longer lines. But again, that’s OK. You can just pop into a cafe for a second helping of baklava. 

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A trip to Istanbul: A must-see on your adventure itinerary

Istanbul is one of the largest cities in the world. Without a doubt, it is the most famous and populated in Turkey and has a great background and scenes. So a trip to Istanbul should be paramount to your traveling itinerary.

The beauty expresses in the slits that conform to the Bosphorus Strait  –which separates Asia from Europe– and the Golden Horn , which unites bridges and ships, as well as in the colors of the neighborhoods that house almost 13 million inhabitants.

The wonders of Istanbul

On a trip to Istanbul , you will be amazed by the silhouettes of the mosques with their minarets emerging in all directions, the seagulls crossing the photos, and the bustling movement emanating from the bazaars,

Also, you will love the color of Turkish delight in the stained glass windows, the smell of kebabs , the Valens aqueduct and the cars passing between its arches, the old attached walls, and, in some places, the newer buildings, houses and shops.

A trip to Istanbul will give you an inordinate training in history, culture and you will be able to see the most amazing urban mutations (with the fascination of knowing between Europe and Asia, between East and West). Likewise, any traveler –with the help of Greca Travel– will have to make a list or several, and organize the days between classic walks such as Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque , and fashionable neighborhoods such as Balat and Fener .

Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, two of its pearls

On a trip to Istanbul, you cannot miss visiting the sought after, mentioned and photographed, Blue Mosque , known also as Sultan Ahmet Camii, built between 1609 and 1616), which is the second largest in the city and the third-largest in Turkey.

Why blue? It is for the 21,000 blue-colored handmade tiles. 

Very close in terms of distance, but separated by more than a thousand years of history, just opposite from the building, lies Hagia Sophia  (or Ayasofya). Its origins must be found in 360, as the cathedral of the Byzantine Empire, although the current building dates of 532 (third church). After the conquest of Constantinople in 1453, Mehmet II converted Hagia Sophia into the Ayasofya Mosque. In 1931 it closed to the public and the building reopened in 1935 converted into a museum.

Perhaps, on a trip to Istanbul, you may be lucky and come across the cat Gli , one of the most famous current characters in Hagia Sophia (he even has an Instagram account: @hagiasophiacat ) and has even taken photos of himself with the former president of the United States, Barack Obama .

It is not weird. Cats in Istanbul are serious business. People feed them, take care of them, make houses for them to protect them from the weather, let them enter the premises and even take naps on the thresholds, regardless of whether they interrupt their passage.

Released a couple of years ago, the documentary Kedi (Istanbul Cats) shows part of all this. " Without cats, Istanbul would lose its soul ", is heard in the film and continues: " In Istanbul, the cat is more than a cat. The cat represents the indecipherable chaos, the culture, the essential uniqueness of Istanbul.”

Not far from Hagia Sophia, about a 15-minute walk away, is the labyrinthine, colorful and crowded Grand Bazaar , making a trip to Istanbul even more attractive. This Grand Bazaar began construction in 1455, with Sultan Mehmed II, and today it is a world of people and shops: it has some 4,000 stores - jewelry, clothing, wallets, souvenirs, Turkish sweets, trinkets made in China, lamps, vessels of ceramics, carpets-, 22 gates, and they say that every day up to 500,000 visitors walk around.

In a city like this, which was born as Byzantium, later New Rome and Constantinople, and today Istanbul, you walk centuries of history in minutes talking about the mosques, the Hippodrome, the walls and the Roman Empire, to the Ottoman palaces and sultans; from the hypnotic turns of the dervishes to the mythical Orient Express train . So a trip to Istanbul will be an unforgettable experience for you to share.

Curious to know more about the wonders of Istanbul ? Check our full Travel Guide to Turkey  and our Travel and Vacation Packages to Turkey !

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Istanbul Travel Blog

An Insider's Guide to Istanbul

• Half-Day Tours in Istanbul [by Local Tour Guide 2024]

17 May 2024 by Serhat Engul

Hello, I’m Serhat Engul, a  local tour guide based in Istanbul . As a history buff, I organize private guided tours that tell the stories of historical districts in Istanbul. These districts include Sultanahmet, Fener & Balat and Beyoglu.

Sultanahmet  and  Fener & Balat  districts are within the boundaries of Istanbul’s Historical Peninsula (former Constantinople). On the other hand, although  Beyoglu  is a relatively new district, it’s a historically important place.

In this article, I would like to introduce you to my walking tours in these districts. I have been a licensed tourist guide in Istanbul since 2004 and I have shown these routes to hundreds of people.

If you want to see Istanbul through the eyes of a local guide, you can reach out to me by filling out the form on the contact page . You can be sure that these tours will leave unforgettable memories for you!

Table of Contents

1. Sultanahmet Walking Tour

Private half-day Sultanahmet Tour is an excellent option to get general information about Istanbul. On this 4-hour walking tour, you will discover the heart of Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula, Sultanahmet and its surroundings.

The half-day Istanbul walking tour basically has five stops. These are buildings that represent different periods from the history of Istanbul . For this reason, this tour gives you a clear idea of the cosmopolitan nature of the city.

a. Hippodrome

The Hippodrome  is my favorite starting place for my tours in Sultanahmet. Because this place dates back to the Roman Empire period and has some of the oldest historical artifacts in the city.

b. Blue Mosque

Blue Mosque  is the most famous mosque in Istanbul and takes its name from the blue Ottoman tiles in its interior decoration. This is the most distinctive structure of Ottoman history in the half-day Sultanahmet tour.

c. Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia  was built in the 6th century, during the Byzantine Empire. After the 15th century, it was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. As such, it is a work that perfectly reflects the cosmopolitan nature of Istanbul.

d. Basilica Cistern

Basilica Cistern  is the most mysterious among dozens of Byzantine cisterns in Istanbul. This place is famous for the Medusa Heads under the columns. The Basilica Cistern was also featured in some scenes of famous movies such as James Bond and Inferno.

e. Spice Bazaar

Spice Bazaar is located in Eminonu, the transportation hub of Old Istanbul. On our way to this historical bazaar, we pass through streets filled with Istanbul’s best local restaurants and public markets. The half-day tour of Old Istanbul ends in this 350-year-old bazaar.

Why Should You Take a Half-Day Istanbul Tour?

Half-day Istanbul tour  introduces you to Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman structures. However, this tour is not just about visiting historical monuments. During the tour, you learn a lot about the culture and daily life of Istanbul.

Especially at the end of the tour, during our walk to Spice Bazaar , you discover the restaurants and dessert shops in the city where the locals eat. Thus, this history tour also offers a partial food tour experience.

The private guide fee for the half-day Sultanahmet tour is 200 Euros. This fee does not include entrance to museums, but in this itinerary we only pay entrance fee for Basilica Cistern . Admission is free for guides and you just buy your own tickets.

2. Historical Peninsula Walking Tour

The Historical Peninsula tour primarily covers Sultanahmet, but goes a little outside the tourist circle and also shows you alternative places in Old Istanbul (former Constantinople). This tour is a perfect blend of Ottoman and Byzantine history.

The half-day Historical Peninsula tour covers Cistern of Philoxenos, Forum of Constantine, Grand Bazaar , Suleymaniye Mosque, Sehzade Mosque, Valens Aqueduct, Zeyrek Mosque (former Monastery of Pantocrator) and with this route it perfectly completes the Sultanahmet tour in the first title.

In this second tour, you will complete the missing parts of the first tour and visit the most important buildings in Byzantine and Ottoman period Istanbul. The private guidance price for this second tour, which covers a larger area and requires more expertise than the first tour on the list, is 250 Euros.

3. Fener and Balat Walking Tour

Fener and Balat walking tour  is for those who want to explore the historical districts of Istanbul that are off the tourist route. Although these districts stand out with their colorful houses, they also contain great historical and cultural riches.

Churches, mosques and synagogues on this route are not well known as they are not easily visited without a guide. However, you can thoroughly explore these magnificent districts of Istanbul with a local tour guide.

Fener and Balat tour is the most unique and special tour of all my tours. The private guide price for this walking tour is 220 Euros. We also pay a tip of 600 Turkish Liras (approximately 15 Euros) in total to the church officials who open places for us that are normally closed to tourists.

4. Beyoglu Walking Tour

Beyoglu walking tour  covers the relatively newer districts of Istanbul compared to the Old City. These areas where the heart of the city beats. Most of the top restaurants and cafés located within these neighborhoods.

The Beyoglu walking tour starts from the Tophane district, where the Istanbul cruise port is, and then continues along Karakoy, Galata, Istiklal Street. At the end of the tour, we arrive at Taksim Square, the heart of Istanbul.

Galata and its surroundings were the autonomous area of the Genoese during the Byzantine period. In this tour, you will learn very important details that an ordinary tourist misses about the history of Istanbul.

The private guide fee for this nostalgic tour, which has a very different vibe, is 220 Euros. There are no other extra costs on the tour. However, it should be noted that we see the Galata Tower from the outside.

5. Byzantine History Tour

Byzantine History Tour  allows you to discover the traces of a civilization that no longer exists in Istanbul. There are many churches, cisterns, palaces and artifacts left from the Eastern Roman (aka Byzantine) empire in Istanbul. You can see what’s left of Constantinople on this tour.

The itinerary of the Byzantine Istanbul tour may vary depending on the restoration status of the relevant historical monuments. This tour is designed for History buffs and the private guide fee is 220 Euros.

Serhat Engul on TripAdvisor

Majority of the local tour guides in Istanbul are registered on TripAdvisor  and their reviews are visible there. You are advised to check the guide’s background from internet, to make sure that he/she is the right person for you.

I suggest you read the comments carefully. Long and detailed reviews will help you better to find the right local tour guide for you in Istanbul. You may  read my reviews on TripAdvisor from this link .

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About serhat engul.

Hello, I'm Serhat Engul. I am a licensed tour guide living in Istanbul. I designed this blog to give general information to visitors to Istanbul. If you want to go on a private guided tour of Istanbul with me, you can check my references from the ABOUT section and write to me via the CONTACT page.

Reader Interactions

12 October 2022 at 01:02

Hello Serhat

I wrote to you yesterday about a half day tour on Friday, Nov 11. My sister and I are also interested in a full day tour on Saturday, November 12. Please let us know as soon as possible about your availability.

Thanks Candace Williams

12 October 2022 at 16:59

Dear Candace,

Thank you for reaching out.

The last days have been very busy for me and I could not reply to emails within the same day. However, I replied to your email today.

Kind regards, Serhat Engul

16 July 2023 at 09:48

Is it possible to book a half day off Istanbul tour for a party of 4 on 12/10/2023. How much will it cost?

17 July 2023 at 09:16

Dear Marion Viley,

I will contact you through your email address registered in the system.

Best regards, Serhat

18 July 2023 at 01:24

Hello Serhat, My husband and I are interested in booking a half day tour with you on 17 October, 2023. We arrive at IST at 12:55 and depart the following morning. We are aware of the free TA tours, but would prefer something far more in-depth. Thank you in advance for your response.

19 July 2023 at 19:33

Dear Holley,

Unfortunately I offer only morning tours. As far as I see you have only one afternoon on the 17th of October.

In this case I will not be able to help you.

Have a nice trip!

Best regards, Serhat Engul

23 July 2023 at 19:04

We are interested in a half day tour on September 27, 2023. Can you please provide information.

27 July 2023 at 16:17

Dear Anne Noland, thank you for reaching out. I have just replied your request through email.

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Istanbul Travel Blog is designed to introduce you to the history, museums, restaurants and culture of istanbul.

Private Tour Guide in Istanbul

Author of this blog, Serhat Engul, is a licensed tour guide based in Istanbul.

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• FENER BALAT Walking Tour (with Private Guide) 2024

Already Planning 2023 Holiday? Check out Rising Star of 2022: Istanbul

Işık Körpe  ·   Updated 11 December  2022

As we are closing 2022 soon, it is worth highlighting Istanbul as the rising star of tourism in 2022 and it continues to welcome tourists from all over the world towards 2023 even weather is getting cooler. So, what happened during 2022 in terms of the tourism boom experienced in this country especially in Istanbul, what does it have to offer and what tourists found exciting about travelling to Istanbul?

In the years leading up to the pandemic, Istanbul experienced an increase in the number of tourists, who came to Istanbul for a variety of reasons, including shopping, sightseeing, and medical tourism. Istanbul has long been known for its rich culture, art, and history and it continues to be among the top tourist locations after the pandemic.

Forbes says that the number of Americans traveling to Turkey in the first half of 2022 is up 76.8% over the same period in 2019 before the pandemic began. This is in contrast to the global tourism industry, which saw a precipitous decline in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID epidemic.

According to Statista , during the pandemic caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19), travel restrictions caused a significant drop in the number of international tourists visiting Istanbul. This drop was especially noticeable in April and May of 2020 when each had fewer than one thousand visitors. The number of visitors from other countries has started to climb once again in 2022, reaching an all-time high of approximately 1.8 million in July of that year. This number has reached roughly 1.6 million by October 2022.

Again, as per the statistics, 126,507 visitors arrived from Germany in June. This was followed by 117,169 tourists who came from Russia, 99,115 tourists who came from Iran, 96,604 tourists who came from the United States, and 59,901 tourists who came from the United Kingdom.

2022 Istanbul Tourism Trends

One of the patterns that have been seen is that guests are staying for longer periods, with the average length of stay being 10.8 days in this most recent year.

The city of Istanbul is the most popular place for Americans to visit when they are in Turkey. It is common for tourists to combine visits to Istanbul, a bustling metropolis, with Cappadocia, a region in the east of the country known for its distinctive scenery.

In June of 2022, Istanbul Airport had the most passengers of any airport in Europe:

According to statistics provided by Airports Council International (ACI) Europe, passenger traffic had a little decrease when compared to its level before the pandemic (1.7%), but it increased by more than twice, reaching 115.4%, when compared to the previous year.

The numbers show that there were 5.996 million passengers that traveled through Istanbul Airport in June of 2022, placing it in the top place in Europe.

With 3.91 million passengers in October, the Antalya Airport in the Turkish resort city on the Mediterranean was the eighth busiest airport in Europe. This places it as the second Turkish airport among the top 10 busiest airports in the world.

Enjoying Turkish Airlines at its Best:

Turkish Airlines, the nation’s flag carrier, became the first global business to generate a profit in 2021 as European air traffic increased, and the firm is on track to post record profits in 2022. With an average of 1,506 daily flights in European airspace at the beginning of August, it is the busiest conventional airline in the continent, well outpacing Lufthansa (1,202) and Air France (1,065).

Turkish Airlines offers reasonable rates and reduced fares to many international locations. You may compare the costs and itineraries of various travel options using travel search engines. Upgrades for business class travel are also reasonably priced.

The company also provides comfortable seating and roomy space. If you plan on travelling to Istanbul in business class, you will find in-chair massage functions, charging stations, personal screens, and a reading lamp.

Of course, we have to mention the world-renowned meals of Turkish Airlines. It does a fantastic job of providing its customers with delectable cuisine and offers delicious meals on each flight.

What Happened in the Istanbul City During 2022?

The Basilica Cistern is a location that has stood the test of time despite being constructed over 1500 years ago. It is one of the most significant remnants of Istanbul’s countless years and complex past that have led up to the present. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Heritage crews completed the most extensive renovation of the Basilica Cistern Museum, which was inaugurated on July 22.

Mid-fifth-century Byzantine Emperor Justinian constructed the cistern and since there are other water reservoirs in the area, the Basilica Cistern was one of them for a long time. Due to its many marble columns (336) and inverted Medusa heads, it has an unquenchable aesthetic appeal.

From the first week, the 1500-year-old cistern welcomed more than 70,000 people. Before the renovation, the ancient cistern had an average of 3,000 visitors per day. Today, there are more than 8,000 visitors.

Another renovation and upgrade has been made in Serefiye Cistern. The 1,600-year-old Serefiye Cistern, one of the oldest water features on the Historic Peninsula, defies historical explanation. The cistern, which is thought to have been constructed between 408 and 450 during the reign of Theodosius II, is claimed to have been called after the Ottoman-era area where it was situated.

Visitors are pouring into the famous Serefiye Cistern, and the total number of visitors throughout the first ten months of 2022 came to 223 thousand 766.

Along with these cisterns, Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace continue to attract visitors travelling to Istanbul. The Ottoman sultans lived at the Topkapi Palace, which is still intact, from the 15th through the 19th centuries. The Imperial Treasury, which is a must-see site, is one of the several buildings housing the Harem that is surrounded by four courtyards with beautiful gardens and fountains.

For Hagia Sophia, it was first built as a church in 537, changed into a mosque in 1453, and finally became a museum in 1935. You will be submerged in the dome’s splendor when you stand underneath it. The Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul’s most magnificent buildings, is a sight not to be missed!

The Cuisine of Istanbul and the New Restaurants Earning Michelin Stars in 2022:

Istanbul is home to a fusion of Mediterranean and other world cuisines, which can be found in the city’s rich and cosmopolitan Turkish dishes and international cuisine. Fine dining restaurants may be found on roofs and terraces throughout the Ulus neighborhood, many of which provide breathtaking panoramas of the Bosphorus Bridge and the surrounding cityscape.

As a result, the fact that Istanbul is on track to become the 38th location to be recognized by the Michelin Guides as one of the world’s most prominent culinary destinations is regarded to be quite an achievement. For those who are passionate about cuisine, the red-covered Michelin guidebooks are equivalent to the Bible.

An award event was held to announce the 53 restaurants that were chosen as a consequence of this investigation. This evening, a rating of five stars was given to the restaurant. Mikla, Nicole, Araka, and Neolokal each received one star, while Fatih Tutak received two stars for their respective restaurants.

TURK Fatih Tutak is a restaurant that can be found in the Bomonti neighborhood of Sisli on the European Side of the city. This restaurant caters to gourmets who are interested in tasting traditional Turkish flavors and offers a contemporary and sophisticated menu that has been expertly reinterpreted by chef Fatih Tutak. In 2019, this exceptional professional made his way back to Turkey and started his own fine-dining establishment. During his international career, he had the opportunity to work with some of the most well-known personalities in the world of gastronomy. The characteristic cuisine of the chef, which has delectable, acidic, and smokey overtones, is extremely genuine, thorough, and, most importantly, MICHELIN GUIDE reflects the chef’s commitment to the place in which he was raised and his origins. If you are travelling to Istanbul, this restaurant will make you experience one of the best fine dining experiences in the city!

Galataport and Tourism Success:

At the 2022 Seatrade Cruise Awards, the top cruise industry event presented at Seatrade Cruise Med, Galataport Istanbul was named “Port of the Year.” Galataport Istanbul, which covers 1.2 km of the Bosphorus shoreline, contains the first subterranean cruise ship terminal and breathes new life into one of the city’s most significant historical neighborhoods.

Galataport has received 30 cruise ships so far in 2022; its officials anticipate that number to increase to 200 by the end of the year.

By 2023, there will be 250 ships anchored at the port, which aims to receive 25 million visitors annually, including 1.5 million cruise passengers. A further 50 ships are anticipated to arrive.

Galataport Istanbul provides a breathing, wholesome, and safe environment for culture & arts, performing shopping, and dining in addition to its primary function as a port and commerce center. This is made possible by its accessible low-rise buildings, architectural style that encompasses the area’s historical backdrop, a wide range of transport options, and more.

Maiden’s Tower Will Be Open to Visit in 2023 March:

The Maiden’s Tower will function as a monument and a museum in line with its historical and monumental worth in March 2023, when the Republic of Turkey celebrates its 100th anniversary.

This island was once a burial site during the Greek era and later served as a customs post with a Byzantine-era extension. From the demonstration platform to the defensive fortress, from the exile station to the quarantine chamber, numerous functions were loaded throughout the Ottoman era.

Legend of the Princess

One of the most well-known legends regarding Maiden’s Tower has a tragic conclusion. According to legend, the King was informed that when his daughter reached 18 she would be bitten by a snake and die. The King builds a castle amid the sea to safeguard his beautiful princess out of fear that he may lose his cherished daughter. The princess is killed by a snake that emerges from the grape basket they delivered to the tower, despite the king believing that doing so would protect his daughter from the serpent.

New Transportation Updates in Istanbul:

Mecidiyekoy-beşiktaş-kabataş metro-subway line.

The fact that there are many different alternatives for public transportation is one of the most appealing aspects of traveling in Istanbul. Commuters have access to a variety of modes of public transportation, including trams, subways, buses, and so on, particularly on the European continent, which encompasses the well-known districts of Sultanahmet, Karakoy, and Taksim.

The good news is that a brand new subway line will begin operating in 2022, interconnecting several well-known areas, including Beşiktaş, Kabataş, and Mecidiyekoy, amongst others.

In addition, the countdown has started for the Gayrettepe-Istanbul Airport metro, which is being constructed to offer transit to Istanbul Airport from the core of the city. The metro has a daily capacity of 600 thousand people between its 9 stations and travels at a maximum speed of 120 kilometers per hour, making it the fastest form of public transportation in Turkey.

When the Istanbul Airport Metro line finally opens, travelers will have access to a mode of transportation that is not only quick but also secure and pleasant.

It is anticipated that the metro line would be placed into operation no later than December at the very latest.

Medical Tourism in Turkey:

Turkey is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for those seeking health tourism. Many people from different parts of the globe are making plans to go to Turkey so that they and their families may take advantage of the country’s low prices and high-quality medical services. First and foremost, world-class medical care is the reason why people choose Turkey. When compared to the pricing in other nations, those in Turkey are the most reasonable.

Also, medical tourists often choose Turkey since the country has a large number of medical facilities that have earned accreditation from the Joint Commission International (JCI). In addition, medical experts and hospitals provide patients with services of the highest caliber and first-rate facilities and facilities, respectively. Because of these factors, Turkey is among the top three nations in the world in terms of the rate of growth in the sector of health tourism, and it is also in the top 10 countries in terms of overall exports of health services.

In the first three quarters of the year 2022, a total of 876,521 individuals traveled to Turkey to obtain medical treatment.

The majority of the overall revenue comes from the hair transplantation field, which is followed by other cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures, as well as dental care and surgeries. Hair transplantation tourism has a very significant part in the field of health tourism. The majority of visitors are from Europe and Arab countries, however, there has been a recent uptick in the number of tourists travelling to Istanbul and Turkey from Asian nations.

People pick Turkey as a destination because Turkish clinics provide good hair transplantation outcomes and provide treatments and procedures at inexpensive pricing. It is a highly well-known operation among international patients from Saudi Arabia, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, England, and other Middle Eastern nations.

Aesthetic procedures including rhinoplasty, tummy tucks, breast enlargement/ reductions, neck lifts, chin implants, and lip augmentation are performed on more than 100,000 patients each year in Turkey. These operations often cost one-third less than they would in western nations. The majority of international patients, according to the Turkish Ministry of Tourism, are from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and France.

Turkish dental clinics sometimes incorporate travel and holiday arrangements in their treatment packages, and dental operations there are significantly less expensive than in nations like the UK or the USA. These draw many international patients to Turkey, mostly from Western Europe or the USA.

Visitors who are going to be staying in Istanbul often take advantage of the chance to see the city while also getting their medical needs met.

What awaits Turkey in 2023 in Terms of Tourism?

Following the very busy tourist season of 2022, expectations are quite high for 2023. Demand in both health tourism and incentive travel demonstrates that Turkey’s tourist mobility will steadily improve over the next several years.

Istanbul will host Champions League 2023 Final along with many other important events and meetings in Istanbul.

We have successfully managed the incentive and business travels this past year as the leading travel agency in Istanbul . We have hosted numerous to thousands of visitors from a wide variety of nations all over the globe who are interested in experiencing luxury business tourism in Istanbul including five-star hotels, convention spaces,  fine-dining restaurants, team building activities and authentic alternatives for business vacations that Istanbul and other tourist hubs in Turkey have to offer. We are preparing even more for 2023, in case you are travelling to Istanbul this year!

Expectations Regarding Tourism in Turkey for the Year 2023

Tourism income is predicted to surpass 41 billion dollars by the end of this year, and it is projected to reach 50 billion dollars in 2023. At the same time, the number of tourists is anticipated to touch 60 million.

The initiative aims to raise the average spending per tourist to 850 dollars, with the average stay being 11.9 nights and the income per visitor being 71.4 dollars per night. It is anticipated that this will increase the average expenditure per visitor.

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Istanbul travel blog — the fullest istanbul travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers.

Ancient, mysterious but full of surprises will be your first impressions when visiting Istanbul, Turkey. The city of Istanbul is considered the heart of Turkey with more than 2,600 years of history, Istanbul has many churches, mosques and many attractive tourist attractions. Especially, The Historical Area of Istanbul has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Thanks to these historic architectural works, Istanbul has attracted millions of visitors each year. So, what to do and how to plan a budget perfect trip to Istanbul for the first-time? Let’s check out our Istanbul travel blog (Istanbul blog, Istanbul trip blog) with the fullest Istanbul travel guide (Istanbul guide, Istanbul tourist guide, Istanbul visitor guide) from how to get, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• My trip to Istanbul — Explore the bridge city of Asia and Europe
• Istanbul travel tips — 9 things & what to know before going to Istanbul
• What to eat in Istanbul? — 19+ Famous, must try food in Istanbul & best food in Istanbul
• Where to go in Istanbul? — 10 must & best places to visit in Istanbul
• How to spend 12 hour layover in Istanbul perfectly?

Napoleon once said: “If the world were a country, Istanbul would be the capital!”. So, what prompted Napoleon to say that, this can be easily is explained by Istanbul’s unique location lying on the two continents of Asia and Europe. But that’s just the shell on the outside. Deep inside Istanbul also contains a rich culture and timeless historical values.

Istanbul travel blog: Overview of Istanbul

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey with an area of 5,343 km² and a population of more than 15 million people, located on two continents of Asia and Europe, stretching on the both sides of the Bosphorus Strait – an important waterway connecting the Sea of Marmara and Black Sea. Istanbul is also the center of economic, cultural and commercial of Turkey and the capital of the province of Istanbul.

Because of such strategic location, in the past Istanbul was once the capital of many powerful empires such as the Roman Empire (330-395), the Byzantine Empire (395–1204 and 1261–1453) and the the Ottoman Empire (1453–1922). Today, imprints of these empires still exist in Istanbul.

Istanbul travel blog: Is Istanbul the capital of Turkey?

Once the capital of many powerful empires in the past but today Istanbul is not the capital of Turkey, the capital of Turkey is Ankara. However, many people still mistake that Istanbul is the capital of Turkey (like mistaking Sydney as the capital of Australia).

Some fun facts about Istanbul

• The Istanbul’s population is more than 13 million people, more than the population of Belgium. And only a third of the population living in the Asia part of the city.
• Istanbul’s metro system is the 3rd oldest metro system in the world after London and New York.
• Istanbul is the city with the most mosques in Turkey with the number up to 3,113.

Istanbul travel blog: Which season should I travel to Istanbul?

You can go to Istanbul at anytime of year. But it is advisable to travel in spring and autumn. Because these two seasons have a cool climate, it is very pleasant to visit. Spring in Turkey starts from April to June while autumn lasts from September to November.

Note: In particular, if you travel to Istanbul in October, you need to pay special attention. Because October is Ramadan month of Muslim. The people of Istanbul in particular and Turkey in general will live in a completely different time compare with normal days. All banks and ATMs will stop working.

Istanbul travel guide: How to get to Istanbul?

Currently from Hanoi or Saigon (HCMC) has a direct flight to Istanbul with a flight time of 10-12 hours, which is very convenient operated by Turkish Airlines. This is Turkey’s airline with the widest flight network around the world. From Vietnam, the airline operating routes to Turkey and all European countries.

Turkish Airlines will land at Istanbul new airport – the world’s largest airport which has just come into operation since April 2019. Due to its massive scale, it takes time to move to the departure gates of the aircraft, so you also need to find out some information about this airport in advance to avoid missing flights.

Fares vary from time to time, ranging from 900 – 1,000 USD for round trip. Depending on the time of promotion or some agents have their own policy with the airline, you can hunt for cheap round-trip tickets from 650-700 USD. With a total flight time of ~ 10 hours from Hanoi and 12 hours from Saigon, you will be served 2 meals and free drinks. In-flight dishes are generally quite delicious, nutritious, often with bread, butter and a kind of thick sauce come together. Drinks including free tea, coffee and fruit juices are served with meals. Economy Class passengers have 8kg of carry-on baggage and 30kg of checked baggage. The airline does not limit the number of packages to bring. Its online booking website: https://www.turkishairlines.com .

There are also several airlines fly to Istanbul such as Emirate Airlines and Qatar Airways, but fly with these airlines you have to transit via Dubai or Doha airports.

Getting from the airport to the city center

There are 2 main airports in Istanbul: Istanbul (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen (SAW). Both of these airports are international airports, however Sabiha Gokcen mainly serving low-cost airlines.

You should choose fly to Istanbul Airport because it is located on the Europe part of the city and there are more types of public transport to travel to the city center. Specifically, how to get from the airports to the city center as follows:

From the new Istanbul Airport to city center (and vice versa)

Currently, this Istanbul new airport has just come into operation in April 2019 and is about 40km from the city center.

Bus: The most economical way to travel from Istanbul airport to the city center – Taksim district and vice versa is to take a bus of Havaist company .

The advantage of this type is convenient, cheap (only 30 lira / person / way), straight to Taksim square, but not directly to the Sultanahmet area (only to the nearby stop Beyazıt Meydan). Please visit this website to see its route, schedules and book tickets. ($1=7.46 Turkish lira (TL)).

Shared Istanbul Airport (IST) Transfer for City Center

Taxi: If you have a lot of luggage and have just traveled through a long journey, you should take a taxi. Taxi price from IST airport to city center is around 150 lira.

However, the price is not always fixed at 150 lira. For the trip from city center to the airport, the driver will prefer to bargain with customer than turn on the meter. If you ask them turn on the meter, they will take a detour to charge you more.

Metro: Metro is also an affordable option, but you will have have to carry your luggage, a bit tired. Specifically, you will have to change trains at Gayrettepe station to the Taksim line. And another downside is that you could not go straight to the Sultanahmet area (only to Veznecilar station nearby).

From Sabiha Gokcen Airport to city center (and vice versa)

There are fewer transport options available from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to the city center than from Istanbul Airport. The easiest way is to book airport transfer service . This service you can book directly with the hotel or travel agencies. The price for this trip is about €10 (90 lira).

Istanbul trip blog: Getting around Istanbul

In Istanbul city we mainly walk, because we stayed a hotel which close to some famous attractions. For a long distance, we use tram or taxi.

There is also a popular public transport, that’s ferry. However, the ferry is only needed when you want to go to the Asia coast of the city and it is not convenient way to access any tourist destinations at all.

NOTE: If you traveling a lot around the city, you should buy an Istanbul Kart card ( iOS , Android ). You will have to spend 10 TL for the card and 20 TL deposit to use all public transport with an unlimited number of people (as long as there is enough money in the card). However, after buying the card, it cannot be returned or withdrawn. One advantage is that the card can be used for many people. You can buy it at some major transit stops such as airports, Sultanahmet, and Eminönü. See more here .

• Istanbul Welcome Card

Istanbul travel blog: What to do and where to go?

Hagia sophia (aya sofya).

Used to be the largest Orthodox church in the world for 1000 years. After being invaded by the Ottoman Empire, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. Visiting this place, you can easily find remnants of Orthodox on the walls. The main highlights of Hagia Sophia are its majestic domes and magnificent mosaics that amaze even the greatest architects. In just 6 years (532 to 537), the Turkish people built a remarkable architectural work of mankind in Byzantine style.

• Hagia Sophia Introduction Tour with Audio Guide

Address: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Height: 56 m Opening hours: 9am – 5pm (winter) & 9am – 7pm (summer) Admission: TL 30

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)

Sultanahmet Camii was built in the early 17th century, it owns the largest scale and most beautiful among the mosques and is also a symbol of Istanbul. The reason for its name Blue Mosque is because the mosque is paved with 20,000 blue glazed tiles with more than 50 different tulip designs decorated throughout the mosque. Like many other mosques, inside the Blue Mosque there is also the tomb of Sultan (King) Ahmed I.

• Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque Small Group Tour

Free opening to visitors but the mosque still remains a sacred place of worshipping. So, before going inside the mosque, you will have to remove your shoes and women will have to wear a headscarf. For Muslims, they will clearly wash their hands, feet and face as a show of respect to their (God) Allah.

• Istanbul Classics Tour

It also free offer bags for visitors store their shoes and lend a headscarf to female guests (but this headscarf is not nice).

Address: Sultan Ahmet, Atmeydanı Cd. No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Hours: 9AM–7PM Admission: Free

Topkapi Palace Museum

Located in the Sultanahmet District, Topkapi Palace is a witness to the historic ups and downs of the Ottoman Empire. Topkapi has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site because of its historical stature as well as its unique beauty. This palace was built in the 15th century and served as the residence of the sultans for more than 400 years during the most prosperous period of the Ottoman Empire (1465-1856). Because of that, this palace complex is extremely large.

Istanbul Topkapi Palace Tour with Skip-the-Line and Audio Guide

By the early 20th century, the Turkish government used it as an office before turning Topkapi into a museum. Tourists will not only be impressed by the scale of the palace, but also have the opportunity to witness first-hand historical artifacts such as the sultans’ weapons, the watch collections or precious jewelry from the Ottoman period.

Before it became an open museum to visitors, the palace used to be the residence of the Sultan and the queen, imperial concubines with hundreds of houses, mosques, entertainment areas and harem. In addition to keeping historical artifacts of the Ottoman Empire, this Istanbul tourist spot is also a beautiful place to enjoy a view of the Bosporus Strait.

• Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, & Basilica Cistern Combo Tour in Istanbul

Address: Cankurtaran, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Hours: 10AM–4PM/Tuesday: Closed Construction started: 1465 Admission: Museum 40 TL + harem 25 TL

• The 3 tourist attractions of Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace are always crowded with tourists, so you take advantage of going from the early morning at around 8:30am.
• If possible, hire a guide to learn more about each place because the information inside each spot are not enough.

Dolmabahce Palace

Considered as “The Versailles of Istanbul” because of its extremely magnificent architecture. Dolmabahce will impress you from the moment you set foot in the Bosphorus where separates Istanbul into two parts in Europe and Asia.

If Topkapi Palace looks ancient, Dolmabahce Palace has a bit of modernity and elegance. Located right next to the Bosporus, the palace is like a shining jewel that adorns the city of Istanbul.

Because the palace only allows 5000 guests to visit a day, you should take advantage of early visiting. Visitors can freely visit the garden while wanting to go inside the palace will have to take a tour guide. Visitors are not allow to take pictures inside but when the guide and security do not pay attention you can still “take some photos”. When detected, the guide will remind guests but they will not be too strict.

Address: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey Hours: 9AM–4PM/Monday, Thursday: Closed Construction started: 1843 Admission: 40 TL (visit the outside palace)

Galata Bridge

A historic bridge crossing Golden Horn Bay connects the old town of Sultanahmet with the modern northern part of Istanbul.

Galata Bridge does not have a monumental architecture like the Chain Bridge in Budapest or the Tower Bridge in London. But it has a more special meaning of all, the connection between the past and the present, the connection between cultures. If this side is a bustling street scene with modern buildings, then the Sultanahmet side has a ancient look. Therefore, it has a very special meaning, standing here to see the world of two separate cultures.

Strolling along the bridge you can easily encounter the idyllic life of the people of Istanbul. In particular, you will see many fishermen, they fish during the day and resell to the restaurants below or fish sandwiches boats.

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower was completed in 1348, once the tallest tower in Istanbul that many visitors want to come. Galata Tower is one of the prominent tourist spots in Istanbul. In the past, the tower was destroyed by two major fires in the 18th and 19th centuries and was restored to welcome visitors. Today, visitors can admire the 360-degree panoramic beauty of the city when reaching the top floor of the tower.

With a height of up to 67 m, Galata Tower is the ideal spot for visitors to admire the panoramic beauty of the whole city under shimmering lights at night. Guests can also enjoy a cozy and romantic evening at the top of the tower as there is a restaurant and cafe to serve visitors.

Address: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey Opening hours: 9am – 8:30pm Admission: 25 TL

Bosphorus Strait

It is the most beautiful sunset spot in the world. This narrowest strait in the world is the natural boundary separating the two parts of the Eurasian continent of Istanbul. In addition, this is also a political hot spot, which get countless papers and ink of the international media.

But contrary to the information in the newspaper, the Bosporus is a very poetic place. Visitors can take a cruise tour to enjoy scenery along the Bosporus, admiring the two continents of Asia – Europe of the city.

To catch the yacht you have to go to the Eminonu Pier to buy tours from the “hot boys” here. Before buying the tour you should go along the pier to aks tour prices but most of the prices that the “boys” offer are the same, 15 TL. After gathering enough guests, all will be invited to get on the bus to get to the pier, whoever gets on first will get a nice spot on the 2nd floor of the boat. As for my team who came up late, we had to sit in a decorated wedding cabin.

Honesty, this is one of my memorable experiences in Turkey. I was also quite surprised because I have never seen such a beautiful sunset, even much more beautiful than the sunset in Santorini.

Basilica Cistern

Known by various names such as the Underground Palace or the Sunken Palace. But in fact, this was once an underground water storage and a water filtration system providing drinking water for the people of Istanbul. Visiting this place you will be lost in a different world with columns created by the ancient Romans.

The Basilica Cistern is a famous underground structure in Turkey that has appeared in many TV series. Previously, it was a underground water lake for the people of Istanbul then forgotten for a few centuries and now becomes a tourist attraction in Istanbul.

Take the space of darkness as the main theme, it is lit by spaced lamps and 336 pillars built by the ancient Romans. This work will make visitors can not help admire by the talent of the ancient people. In particular, there is a stone pillar with an upside down Medusa head statue (which historians have yet to explain why the head of the statue was placed upside down).

Address: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Opening hours: 9am – 5:30pm Admission: 20 TL

Maiden’s Tower (The Virgin’s Tower)

If you have ever seen pictures of Turkey, you will see a nearly 30 meter high tower alone in the middle of the Bosporus sea.

There are many legends surrounding this tower, but the most famous is the story of a rich father who wants to protect his beloved daughter from the dangers and he built this tower in the middle of the sea. It has also been used as an ancient watchtower and worshiped the god of fire since ancient Baku. From this tower, you will admire the peaceful sea scenery with the hillsides and surrounding nature.

Today the tower has become a restaurant. If you have an opportunity to travel to Istanbul, you should try to have a meal here to be able to see Istanbul scenery and hear more thrilling stories.

The most bustling neighborhood in Istanbul. Contrary to the timeless beauty of Sultanahmet neighborhood, the Taksim district brings the breath of modern life. When night falls, Taksim will become very crowded with shops and bars.

In the Istiklal pedestrian street, there is also an ancient system of tram that has existed for nearly a hundred years, creating something very unique for this neighborhood.

NOTE: The security of this Taksim area is a bit complicated, you should be a little bit more careful, especially at night. Because there are many restaurants and bars in this area, there are many risks.

Ortakoy Mosque

Ortakoy Mosque, also known by another name is Buyuk Mecidiye Camii. The mosque is both a symbol of the Ortaköy district and is known as the “jewel” of the Bosphorus. Buyuk Mecidiye Camii is built right next by the Bosphorus, located at the foot of the Bosphorus Bridge.

Among over 3000 mosques, Ortaköy is still one of the most beautiful structures in Istanbul. This mosque was built from 1854 to 1856 by order of Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecid. Ortaköy was designed by great architects Garabet Amira Balyan and Nigoğayos Balyan.

Address: Mecidiye, Mecidiye Köprüsü Sk. No:1 D:1, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey Opened: 1856 Hours: 4AM–10PM

Istanbul travel blog: What and where to eat?

Due to a city located on two continents, that is why Istanbul there are many unique culinary features that are difficult to find anywhere else in the world. Among them are doner kebab, fish sandwich, stewed lamb, baklava… Below are famous dishes you should try.

Doner Kebab

Referring to Turkey can not help but to mention Doner Kebab – a famous traditional dish in Turkey. Previously, Turkey was a country of nomadic tribes, so they often roast meat to keep for a long time, sandwiches with bread and vegetables, quite similar to today’s doner kebab. In Turkey, Doner often sandwiches with lamb, beef and chicken … absolutely no pork because the Muslim Turks do not eat pork. The marinated chicken is delicious, soft, juicy. Beef is okay, while lamb is a bit too strong taste, maybe because I am not used to the taste of Turkey.

Turkish Ice Cream Tricks (Battered ice cream)

The reason for the name ice cream trick is because the sellers will use all kinds of tricks to fool you, not allowing you to get the ice cream. Note that this cream is only for virtual living, but it is boring to eat, a bit flexible so that the seller can playing with you.

Fish sandwich (balık ekmek) at Galata bridge

For a long time, I have read an article on a travel forum that this fish sandwich is so delicious, but the truth is it is not as delicious as I hoped. A fish sandwich only has a few lettuce and fried fish without any sauce, so it is bland. Only the fried fish show on the boats is attractive. You can come to Galata bridge and try it on boats.

Stewed lamb

Lamb is a familiar ingredient in Turkish meals, there are many dishes prepared from it, in which this attractive stewed lamb cannot be ignored. Lamb after being thoroughly stewed with spices will put in a ceramic jar. After that, the waiter will light the fire around and create a unique fire dance before you can enjoy it.

Tea and raki

These are the two most used drinks in Turkey. When entering someone’s home, you will definitely be invited to a cup of tea, showing the hospitality of the people here. Raki a alcoholic drink made of twice-distilled grapes and anise with a fairly high alcohol content (up to 48%). Therefore, if you cannot drink alcohol, you should consider before drink it!

Turkey is a country with high annual honey production in the world, honey prices are not cheap either. This is a commonly used ingredient in cuisine to make cakes, sweets, yogurt,…

Turkish Baklava

Baklava in Turkey is a layered pastry dessert made of filo pastry, and filled with chopped nuts, and sweetened with syrup or honey. This is must-try food in Istanbul in particular and Turkey in general. It also was one of the most famous and popular sweet pastries of Ottoman cuisine.

Turkish Red Lentil Soup

This is also one of the indispensable dishes in the daily life of the people of this country that you should try. The dish is attractive and eye-catching with the main ingredient is lentil stewed with tomatoes, peppers, onions and a little cream to create fat.

Lahmacun cake

Turkish style pizza is known as signature street food but it is everywhere so you can buy to try it. Place on top of the cake is minced lamb stir-fried with spices, chopped chili, coriander and squeezed on a little lemon juice to enhence flavor. Then roll it up, wrap it in paper and cut it in half to eat, not bring it to bake, fast, neat, and quick.

Midye Dolma

This is a famous dealcoholized wine dish consisting of clams stuffed with a mixture of spicy rice. At restaurants in this country, they will not stop bringing this dish until you say stop and the shop owner will charge by counting clam shells.

Cig kofte (raw meat balls)

Cig kofte is one of the best raw meat dishes in the world with a very spicy taste. This raw meat dish is often served with flat bread, salad, pomegranate seed oil and spicy sauce.

Simit (Turkish sesame bagel)

This is a traditional Turkish cake and is often used for breakfast. A kind of soft and spongy bread is formed in a ring shape, sprinkled with white sesame seeds on top and then bake. You can buy them in street food vendors or pastry shops. Enjoying a hot cake with a cup of tea or served with cheese, salad brings delicious flavors.

Türk Kahvesi (Turkish Coffee)

Turkish coffee not to be mixed with boiling water as usual. They are incubated in a stove at a low temperature and served in large cups. Turkish coffee has a slightly sour taste, very strong and especially when you drink to the bottom of the cup you will see a layer of coffee paste due to coffee powder will settle down.

This is a famous Turkish ice cream and pastry chain of stores in Turkey. The desserts, ice cream, and juices were delicious. In addition, it also serves savory dishes, pizzas in large plates, a quite full for a meal of about 70 TL. Nice view, cozy, very nice service staff, nice dress.

Address: Alemdar, Divan Yolu Cd. No:24, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Hours: 8AM–12AM

Turkish Delight Chain

Here is a collection of famous Turkish brands, Turkish traditional sweets, pastries, cakes, baklava… My favorite is Turkish Chocolate, which is very cheap and delicious. This is must-visit place in Istanbul.

Istanbul travel blog: What and where to buy?

When traveling to Istanbul, you can buy many interesting things as gifts such as apple tea, lokum (Turkish Delight candy) or hand-woven rugs, Nazars (charms against the evil eye), olive oil, traditional pottery handmade, leather products, refrigerator stickers with pictures of famous places, …

Grand Bazaar

One of the oldest markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar has more than 3,000 stalls, it can take many days to explore. The Turks are known for their skillful, careful and meticulous skills, so at Grand Bazaar you can find unique Hand-made items. Even basic items such as water bottles, pots, but under the talented hands of the Turks they turn into extremely beautiful home decorations. In addition, the Grand Bazaar is famous for the areas selling condiments, spices or chocolates. A note for visitors is to bargain when shopping here. The merchants in Turkey, especially in the Grand Bazzar always say overcharge. You have to bargain, usually 1/3 of the value of the item.

Address: Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. No:22, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey Opened: 1461 Hours: 10AM–6PM

Misir Carsisi (Spice Market)

Located next to the Bosphorus on the European coast of the city, this market sells many Turkish specialties: Nuts, apricots, tea, confectionery, cheese and unique handmade decorations. The experience of buying nuts is to buy at shops outside the market, I see the list price of these shops 10-20% lower than shops in the market.

Shopping Malls

Forum istanbul shopping center.

This is the largest shopping mall in Istanbul and is also one of the Metro stops, so travel is very convenient. This place can meet most of the shopping needs of customers, including all famous domestic as well as global clothing brands, cosmetic brands, supermarkets, fruit stalls and food courts. What I like the most is the food court here, the price is cheap and the taste is very easy to eat. If you cannot eat Turkish food, coming here will feel like being saved with delicious fried chicken, nutritious and cheap salmon.

Address: Kocatepe, Paşa Cd, 34045 Bayrampaşa/İstanbul, Turkey Hours: 10AM–8PM/Saturday, Sunday: Closed

Marmara Forum

This mall is located next to the Media Mart and the large mall of Decathlon Mall Of İstanbul and about 800m from Metro station. In addition to household items, clothes, food, and fruit, I really like the shops selling crockery, ceramics here: Fancy designs with very affordable prices.

Address: Osmaniye, Çobançeşme Koşuyolu Cd. No:3, 34100 Bakırköy/İstanbul, Turkey Hours: 10AM–8PM/Sunday: Closed

Aqua Florya Shopping and Life Center

This is also a pretty big shopping mall in Istanbul, but what I like most here is its location. This mall is close to the old airport, next to the beach road and a park where you can relax, entertain, cycle, sunbathe or watch the sea. You can also enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee at the outdoor restaurant overlooking the sea, or lie on the large rocks to sunbathe and watching seagulls.

Address: Şenlikköy, Yeşilköy Halkalı Cd. 93-93/1, 34153 Bakırköy/İstanbul, Turkey Hours: 10AM–8PM

Istanbul travel blog: Where to stay?

According to my Istanbul travel experience, you should stay in the Sultanahmet and Taksim neighbourhoods:

Sultanahmet

Old Quarter where famous tourist attractions of the city gather such as Sultanahmet Camii, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace …

If you want to feel the timeless beauty of Istanbul, you should book a room here. Get up early and walk around so you can feel the quaint beauty of each street.

Some hotels in the Sultanahmet area:

• Sirkeci Park Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Istiklal Terrace Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Sunlife Oldcity ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Megaron ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Aldem Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

It is considered the heart of Istanbul with the square and bustling pedestrian street. Moreover, this is also the main hub of all traffic routes in the city.

You can easily find cheap buses to get to the airport from here. However, the security of this area is not very good, as I saw here.

Some hotels in Taksim area:

• Santa Ottoman Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• The Legend Platine Suites ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Mirrors Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Jakaranda Boutique Hotel Istanbul ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Gravis Suites Taksim ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Istanbul travel blog: Some useful travel tips before you go

• Buying Istanbul Museum Pass to save money on entrance tickets to attractions. See more infornation and prices via the following link .
• Using Hop-On, Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour in case there is only a few hours of transit to visit the city. See more here.
• Preparing in advance the pocket WiFi device or buy a sim card in advance at home (or if it’s convenient to buy at the airport). Because if you buy at stores, the staff knows that you are a foreign tourist, so they will recommend very expensive sim packages.
• Turks speak English quite poorly, not as well as I imagined. The hotel staff who read number 4 as “five”, should I sad or happy?!
• For girls, you should choose beautiful headscarf in advance when entering the mosque, because the headscarfs that are borrowed at the tourist sites are not beautiful.
• Do not point your camera at people who are praying.
• Muslims do not eat pork, so when entering a restaurant, you should not order dishes with pork.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Istanbul you can refer to

• Istanbul Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Hop-on Hop-off Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
• 4G SIM Card (MY Delivery) for Turkey from joytel2u
• Istanbul Museum Pass
• [Sale] Sea Life Aquarium Ticket in Istanbul
• Round Trip Ferry Tickets between Prince’s Islands and Istanbul
• Princes’ Island Full Day Tour from Istanbul
• Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise Tour
• Istanbul: Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Music and Dinner Cruise w/ Private Table
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise with Audio App
• Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour
• Best of Istanbul in 1 Day
• Istanbul: Topkapi Palace Guided Tour and Skip The Line
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht
• Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Istanbul: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And My trip to Istanbul — Explore the bridge city of Asia and Europe. And Turkey travel guide here .

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