In this article, I discuss, things to do in Istanbul. Welcome to Istanbul, a city where the ancient and modern seamlessly coexist, offering a myriad of experiences for every traveler. With so many things to do in Istanbul, it's a destination that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
Begin your exploration at the iconic Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture turned museum, showcasing centuries of history. Marvel at the intricate mosaics and grandeur that encapsulates the essence of Istanbul's rich past. Nearby, the Blue Mosque beckons with its stunning domes and minarets, inviting you to experience the spiritual and architectural beauty that defines the city.
Continue your journey to the bustling Grand Bazaar, a labyrinthine marketplace where vibrant colors, exotic scents, and the hustle of daily life converge. Shop for intricate carpets, handmade ceramics, and other treasures that reflect the city's cultural diversity. The Grand Bazaar is a quintessential stop for those seeking authentic Turkish goods and a taste of local life.
For a leisurely escape, the Bosphorus Cruise offers a unique perspective of Istanbul, with panoramic views of the cityscape and its historic landmarks. As you glide along the water, savor the beauty of the Dolmabahçe Palace and the quaint fishing villages lining the shores. This scenic journey provides a peaceful interlude in the heart of the bustling metropolis.
Things to Do in Istanbul
Delve into the heart of Istanbul's culinary scene by exploring the vibrant neighborhoods like Beyoglu and Kadikoy. Savor traditional Turkish delights, from kebabs and mezes to baklava and Turkish tea. The city's diverse gastronomy reflects its rich history as a crossroads of cultures.
Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of the Sultanahmet District, where the Topkapi Palace awaits. Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, it now houses a remarkable collection of artifacts and offers stunning views of the Bosphorus. Stroll through the palace's opulent courtyards and gardens, and transport yourself to a bygone era.
The Archaeological Museum is another gem, showcasing artifacts that span civilizations and millennia. From ancient Anatolian civilizations to the Hellenistic and Roman periods, this museum provides a comprehensive journey through Turkey's archaeological tapestry.
To truly grasp the city's modern allure, explore the trendy district of Karakoy. This area buzzes with contemporary art galleries, hip cafes, and vibrant street art. It's a testament to Istanbul's ability to seamlessly blend its storied past with the pulse of the present.
In the evening, experience the enchanting atmosphere of the Istanbul Modern Art Museum, where contemporary Turkish art takes center stage. The museum, situated along the Bosphorus, provides a perfect blend of culture and scenic beauty.
01. Experience Taksim Square.
Taksim Square is Istanbul's most recognizable modern city center. Independence Monument and Hagia Triada Greek Orthodox Church in the background.
Taksim Square is located in the heart of modern Istanbul, at the end of the famous pedestrian street Istiklal Caddesi. The past meets the present here; At one end is the Grand Taksim Mosque, and at the other is the modern Atatürk Cultural Center. It is here that the hum of Istanbul's activity vibrates at its highest level.
02. Walk down Istiklal Caddesi.
Speaking of Istiklal Caddesi, this pedestrian-only walking street is the place to soak up the passion of Istanbul. It is currently one of the most famous streets in the country and is lined with Ottoman-era buildings and both Art Nouveau and Art Deco structures. The buildings house everything from boutiques and art galleries to cafes, theatres, restaurants and nightclubs.
03. Turkish kebab samples.
A staff member works at a Turkish doner kebab restaurant in Istanbul, Turkey, March 5, 2022. The streets of Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, attract a variety of delicacies, desserts, drinks, Turkish people and tourists alike.
Turkish cuisine includes grilled meats, seafood, salads, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices, rich sweets, coffee and tea. When visiting Istanbul, you'll want to try as many of the above as possible, but perhaps especially Turkish kebabs. Made with marinated lamb or beef, kebabs are cooked on skewers and served with vegetables or wrapped in lavash bread.
04. Check out Galata Tower.
Rising from a historic street in Istanbul's Beyoglu district, Galata Tower was originally built as a watch tower during the Byzantine era. The structure that stands today, however, dates back to the 13th century and serves as a gallery and museum. A primary feature of the tower is a 360-degree observation deck that overlooks Istanbul.
05. Beyoglu shops and parties.
"The European side of Istanbul is home to the main historical district," says Agnes. "This side of the city is considered more 'western' and has nightlife spots and more cosmopolitan districts like Beyoglu and Karakay. Beyoglu is famous for its lively atmosphere; the area has great stops for shopping, dining and nightlife."
If you travel to Istanbul you will probably spend a lot of time in Beyoğlu. Steeped in more than a thousand years of history, the neighborhood is the beating heart of modern Istanbul on the European side of the city.
06. Have a drink at the Grand Hotel de Londres.
A grande dame of Istanbul, the Grand Hotel de Londres is a beautifully preserved building from the 1800s. From the rich color palette and glittering chandeliers to the wall-to-wall carpeting, it's all about opulence. The Terrace Bar is a favorite hangout for tourists and locals alike; There is often live music, plus beautiful views of the sunset over the Golden Horn.
"This is good advice for travelers to Istanbul," Agnes said "It's an off-the-beaten-path suggestion for visitors to experience a true city vibe."
07. Explore Karakoy.
Relaxing with a phone while sitting on a balcony on the old Ottoman Banks street in Beyoğlu district, Galata Quarter (Karakoy), Istanbul, Turkey.
"Old Galata's modern name is Karakoy, part of Beyoğlu district," Agnes said "It's known as one of Istanbul's hippest and oldest neighborhoods, with arty cafes, local boutiques, late-night cocktail bars and art galleries. The local fashion and art scene is growing in this area."
08. Marvel at the Blue Mosque.
Aerial view of the historic Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the "Blue Mosque", in the Old City of Istanbul
One of Istanbul's most recognizable landmarks, the Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is a beacon in the city's skyline. It is known for its magnificent dome and six tall minarets. The mosque dates back to the 17th century and is still a functioning mosque today.
09. Visit the Hagia Sophia.
Not far from the Blue Mosque is the equally impressive Hagia Sophia. Originally built as a church where the rulers of the empire were crowned, it was later converted into a mosque. Today it serves as a museum dedicated to Turkey and is one of the most important monuments to both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.
10. Take a tour of the Hippodrome.
Back when Istanbul was the imperial capital of Constantinople, it was known for its horse and chariot races and the hippodrome where these exciting, adrenaline-pumping races took place. Although the original site is no longer around, what stands in its place is Sultanahmet Square, where several monuments serve as reminders of the area's millennia-old past.
11. Explore the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum.
The Turkish and Islamic Art Museum is a revolutionary museum for Turkey, the first in the country to exhibit Turkish and Islamic art together. Opened in 1914, it was the last museum to open during the Ottoman Empire. The museum houses 1,700 works of art and its carpet collection is one of the most impressive in the world.
12. Underground journey to the Basilica Cistern.
Istanbul's skyline soars with some of the world's most beautiful and historic monuments, and the beauty continues beneath the pavements, thanks to engineering and infrastructure masterpieces. Constantinople's primary cistern, the Basilica Cistern is cathedral-esque and a sight to behold. Built in the fourth century, it is supported by 336 columns and can hold 17.5 million gallons of water.
13. Visit Topkapi Palace.
This 15th century palace was once the administrative headquarters of the Ottoman Empire. Now a museum, the place is full of treasures, from the walls decorated with gorgeous paintings to the rooms that lead to the gorgeous courtyard — you can even explore the former harem. This is one of the best places in Istanbul to learn about the former glory of the Ottoman Empire.
14. Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque.
A view of the Ottoman-era Suleymaniye Mosque, a historical and important landmark built by the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinanin Suleymaniye in the Fatih district of Istanbul.
Istanbul is not short on impressive mosques and the Suleymaniye Mosque is certainly one of its most beautiful. Considered a masterpiece by architect Mimar Sinan, the mosque was built in the 16th century to honor Sultan Suleiman the Ottoman Empire's longest reigning sultan. The central dome stands a staggering 154 feet high and the interior is beautifully decorated in gold, green, red and blue.
15. Ferries to the Asian side of Istanbul.
Istanbul stands as an important crossroads between Europe and Asia, and the city itself is divided between the two continents by the Bosphorus Strait. Be sure to immerse yourself in both sides of this rich city to better understand its history. There are over 20 ferry routes across the Bosphorus and the crossing takes only 15 minutes.
16. Admire the Beylerbeyi Palace.
Across the Bosphorus, Beylerbey Palace is a 19th-century estate built as a summer palace for royalty. It was also used as a residence for visiting heads of state. The now-museum is a superb example of interior design and architecture with a nod to both Ottoman and Neo-Baroque styles. Equally impressive are the stunning gardens that surround the palace.
17. Shop around Kadikoya Market.
Kadıköy Market is part of a bustling market on the Asian side of Istanbul. Overlooking the Sea of Marmara, the market is a historic one, with more than 4,000 vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to carpets, pottery, textiles and paintings. It's also one of the best spots in town to sample Turkish street food and Turkish delight, a jelly candy made with rosewater.
18. Walk through the Kuzguncuk neighborhood.
Historic Colorful Houses of Kuzguncook. Kuzguncuk is a neighborhood in the Üsküdar district of Istanbul, Turkey.
Sandwiched between Uskudar and Beylerbeyi, Kuzguncuk is one of the liveliest and most vibrant neighborhoods on the Asian side of Istanbul, and has always been a melting pot of religions and cultures. You'll find mosques, churches and synagogues here, as well as a fun mishmash of neighborhood coffee shops, restaurants, tree-lined cobblestone streets and brightly colored historic houses.
19. Bargains at the Grand Bazaar.
Get ready to feast your eyes on the granddaddy of all covered markets. One of the world's oldest and largest venues of its kind, Istanbul's Grand Bazaar features a maze of streets and thousands of shops. Vendors sell just about anything you can think of, so if you're a pro at haggling, it'll be like your Super Bowl.
20. Get a serious scrubbing at Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı.
Wellness "trends" have existed in Turkey for hundreds of years, and visitors can step back into the old ways of wellness by visiting the iconic Kılıç Ali Pasa Hamamı. The building dates back to the 16th century and today serves as one of the city's top locations for a classic ritual hammam. Be sure to book accordingly - the hammam is open for women in the morning and for men in the afternoon.
21. Go to the Monastery of Judoches Page.
This early Byzantine monastery has a history of miracles and legends, thanks to a spring believed to possess magical powers. It's also set on a hilltop, making it a great place to take in the views of the city.
22. Connect with the local community.
If you want to step into the shoes of a local while traveling, you can do so in Turkey. Agnos recommends visiting the village of Bozcada Island in August to collect and sell tomatoes with the local community. Or, if you're in Bodrum, join the olive harvest between September 15 and December 25.
23. Enjoy the Mediterranean climate.
Istanbul may be a cosmopolitan city, but it is surrounded by nature at every turn, with coastal views, island-style living, forests and parks.
"There are many seaside promenades where locals walk, run or socialize and hang out," says Dunch. "From the beginning of June to the end of September, the public beaches of the Black Sea and Marmara Sea are open." Dunch recommends enjoying open-air concerts in the summer or visiting the Belgrade Forest north of the city. "Around Prince's Island," he adds, "sailing and water sports are popular."
24. Discover your favorite 'esnaf lokantası'.
Istanbul has some of Europe's top restaurants, but the local, homestyle street food cafes are where the city really shows its heart.
"I recommend eating at artisanal food stores," Dunch said. "They are referred to as 'esnaf lokantası', frequented by shopkeepers and artisans in commercially vibrant areas such as markets, and they offer low-quality and very tasty home-style cooking. It's as close as a visitor can get to the heart of Turkish cuisine."
25. Be entertained at Bomontiada.
The impressive Bomontiada complex is a center for art. There are Ara Gul's museums, restaurants, and a calendar of outdoor concerts and movie screenings, making it the place to be for all kinds of entertainment. It is also set within the once abandoned Bomonti beer factory and has been integral in helping to redefine this previously desolate part of the city.
FAQ
Q1: What are the top historical attractions in Istanbul?
A1: Istanbul boasts several historical attractions, including the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque.
Q2: How can I travel between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul?
A2: You can use the Bosporus Bridge or take a ferry to easily travel between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Q3: Are there any must-visit markets in Istanbul?
A3: Yes, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar are renowned markets in Istanbul offering a wide range of goods and a vibrant shopping experience.
Q4: What is the best time to visit Istanbul?
A4: The ideal time to visit Istanbul is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Q5: Are there any traditional Turkish dishes I must try in Istanbul?
A5: Certainly! Don't miss trying kebabs, baklava, Turkish delight, and the famous Turkish tea while exploring Istanbul.
Conclusion: Istanbul offers an enchanting array of experiences that cater to every taste and interest. From historical landmarks to culinary delights, and from traditional markets to contemporary art scenes, there are truly countless things to do in Istanbul. Allow the city to unfold its stories as you embark on a journey that will undoubtedly leave you enchanted and inspired.
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