If you're planning a visit to Turkey soon and looking for the best things to do in Istanbul, we've got you covered! This article will tell you how to plan the perfect Istanbul itinerary.
Discover Istanbul's Historical Heart: Sultanahmet
Istanbul boasts a rich history that goes back thousands of years. Having served as the capital of several empires, the city's Old Town showcases an unmatched grandeur. With historical landmarks and attractions on every corner, exploring the city's historical heart is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Istanbul, Turkey. So, don't forget to add Sultanahmet to your Istanbul itinerary and uncover the spectacular past of this historic capital.
Hagia Sophia: The Symbol of Byzantine and Ottoman Empires
A historic temple that held unfathomable significance for two prominent world religions, Hagia Sophia is the true gem of Istanbul. Originally built as a church and converted to a mosque after the Ottoman conquest in 1453, Hagia Sophia was once a symbol of power for both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. That's why visiting Hagia Sophia is one of the top things to do in Istanbul to uncover the city's intricate past.
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
Blue Mosque was built under the rule of Ahmed I as an imperial mosque and a sign of Ottoman sovereignty over the City of World's Desire, Istanbul. The mosque was highly inspired by Hagia Sophia and carries many features of both Ottoman and Byzantine styles. In this regard, Blue Mosque is a fine example of 17th-century Ottoman architecture.
Topkapi Palace: Step into the Lives of Ottoman Sultans
A magnificent palace with numerous rooms and unique architecture, Topkapi was once the main residence of the Ottoman dynasty. The Ottoman Empire, which spanned from Europe to North Africa, was governed by this intricate structure over the course of centuries. If you want to explore how Ottoman sultans lived, Topkapi Palace is where you should go!
Basilica Cistern: A Hidden Underground Marvel
The underground marvel of Basilica Cistern might be the true definition of a hidden gem. Built in the 5th century CE, the cistern provided the imperial palace and the nearby settlements with water filtration. Although it no longer serves this purpose, it's a great place to uncover the city's marvelous past. A visit to this historical cistern is among the most unique things to do in Istanbul.
Experience the Bustling Energy of Taksim and Beyoglu
Beyoğlu is a central municipality within Istanbul's European part, where you can find many cafés and stores. The municipality houses the famous Taksim Square, a common meeting point for locals and a relatively well-known leisure district with restaurants, shops, and hotels. If you want to bask in Istanbul's culture and explore some local establishments, Beyoğlu must be on your itinerary. Want to explore Istanbul's gorgeous nature even further? A well-planned Galata and Beyoğlu tour can help you with it!
Istiklal Avenue: Shopping, Street Performers, and Nightlife
Although Istanbul is mostly known for its history and culture, you shouldn't miss its vibrant nightlife. And exploring various clubs and bars near Istiklal is the best way to do it!
You can see street artists always performing on the avenue, adding to the distinctive atmosphere. A variety of stores in the area offer unique souvenirs for all visitors.
Galata Tower: A Panoramic View of Istanbul's Skyline
Galata Tower is a historic tower situated at the heart of Istanbul. Originally built by the Venetians, the tall structure offers a great vantage point from which to view the entirety of Istanbul.
If the tower is on your itinerary, don't just see it from outside. You can climb Galata Tower for a panoramic view of the city's skyline. Don't forget to take lots of pictures!
Explore the Vibrant Çukurcuma: Antique Shops and Cafés
Çukurcuma, a lesser-known street in Istanbul, is known for its bohemian style and bustling antique scene. Situated on a hill with views of the sea, the Çukurcuma neighborhood features numerous antique shops and cafés. If you're looking to explore Istanbul's off-the-beaten-path routes, this place must be on your itinerary!
Bosphorus Cruises: Day and Night Tour Options
Separating Europe and Asia, Bosphorus is one of Istanbul's most prominent symbols. With a coastline lined by historic manors, restaurants, and palaces, Bosphorus Strait offers breathtaking views of Istanbul.
Bosphorus cruises are among the top 10 things to do in Istanbul for those looking for a truly authentic experience. On these tours, visitors can enjoy local Turkish dishes and various performances, along with stunning Bosphorus scenery.
Maiden's Tower: Legends of the Tower in the Middle of the Water
Originally built around the 5th century BCE and expanded in the following centuries by different civilizations, Maiden's Tower is one of the most prominent highlights of Istanbul.
There are many legends surrounding the tower. The most popular one tells of a sultan who dreams his daughter will die from a snakebite on her 18th birthday. To protect her, he builds Maiden's Tower and isolates her there. On her 18th birthday, he sends her a basket of fruit—unaware a snake is hidden inside. The snake bites her, and she dies.
Ortaköy: A Charming Waterfront Neighborhood
Located in the Beşiktaş district, Ortaköy is also a great spot to explore Istanbul's distinctive atmosphere. This lovely waterfront neighborhood provides a perfect chance to escape the city's hustle and bustle and enjoy tranquility. For a scenic getaway, you can visit one of the many restaurants and cafés along the coastline and bask in the peaceful atmosphere.
Dive Into the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar
A full day old city tour isn't complete without visiting Istanbul's old bazaars. With numerous shops lining their narrow alleys, these bazaars have served as the main commercial hub of the historic city. So, hitting Istanbul's historical bazaars to shop for unique souvenirs is absolutely one of the best things to do in Istanbul, Turkey.
Kadıköy: A Mix of Trendy Cafés and Local Culture
Kadıköy is where you can socialize and bask in the local culture of Istanbul. Home to a myriad of trendy cafés and top-notch restaurants, the neighborhood has something to offer all types of visitors. Not to mention that thanks to the sleek atmosphere and central location, visiting Kadıköy is also one of the things to do in Istanbul with kids.
Üsküdar: A Peaceful Escape with Historic Mosques
Üsküdar is the heart of Istanbul's Asian part. Full of historic mosques and prominent landmarks, the neighborhood houses many Ottoman-era structures. Additionally, the neighborhood is also home to many churches, synagogues, palaces, and museums, offering a glimpse of Istanbul's diverse history.
Çamlıca Hill: Stunning Views of the City
Çamlıca Hill is a popular attraction and vantage point that offers stunning views of the city. The hill is 288 m (945 ft) above sea level and overlooks the southern part of Bosphorus. The hill is also home to Çamlıca Mosque, the largest mosque in Anatolia, and the Çamlıca Tower telecommunications tower.
Balat and Fener: Colorful Streets and Historic Churches
There is no better place to explore Istanbul's cultural diversity than visiting the colorful streets and old churches of Balat and Fener. These two neighborhoods have historically been the center of the Christian and Jewish populations in Ottoman Istanbul. Although these districts are highly multicultural today, with no visible religious distinctions, traces of Ottoman Greeks and Armenians can still be seen.
Suleymaniye Mosque: Lesser Known but Majestic
Commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent, Suleymaniye Mosque is one of the most majestic mosques in Istanbul. The mosque was completed in 1557 and built by the famous architect Mimar Sinan.
Suleymaniye is the largest Ottoman-era Mosque in Istanbul and is considered a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Located at the heart of the Old Town, Suleymaniye is a great spot for history-focused Istanbul tours.
Princes' Islands: A Day Trip Away from the Hustle
You may think that Istanbul is all about mosques, museums, and historical landmarks. Nevertheless, one of the top things to do in Turkey Istanbul is to take an island trip to the famous Princes' Islands. Constituting the Adalar district, these nine islands boast a unique atmosphere completely distinct from mainland Istanbul. You can check out some popular Princess Islands tour options for a truly unforgettable experience.
