Istanbul, the city most talked about for its heavenly beauty, is on the bucket list for thousands of people. When you want to know about this place, you need to be prepared for the historical events buried in every pillar.
I am not even kidding. With so many things to do in Istanbul, I can assure you that the one thing you will get lost in is the layered history. The city is a fusion of East and West, allowing you to cover both continents at once.
From Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, colourful streets, and modern cafes, you can feel the richness in every step. With empires falling and rising, the city stands strong with its stones and alleyways.
But I am not going to bore you with only the same old historical lessons. I will give you a mix of things to do in Istanbul, Turkey.
Here is the List of the Best Things to Do in Istanbul Turkey
Now, it’s time for you to go to Istanbul, the city that makes you fall in love with its colours. With this blog, start manifesting your trip to Turkey.
From sipping Turkish tea in a quiet courtyard to exploring a centuries-old palace, Istanbul never runs out of things to do. That’s why I’ve curated the best 20 things for you, perfectly selected for your needs.
Neighbourhood of Balat for Pretty Aesthetics
The hidden gem of Istanbul is slowly getting popular. So, before it gets too crowded with tourists, visit the lovely streets of Balat. This neighbourhood is seen as a work of art, with its colourful houses and uniquely styled shops lined up.
Balat was once a place where diverse groups used to live together – Jews, Armenians, Turks, and Greeks. Now, you can see all these traditional, wood-fired bakeries and tea houses on the side, which makes this place a great spot for an evening visit.
When you enter the street, you will be awed by its beautiful buildings. I can’t convince you enough to go there. Additionally, you have bookstores and charming design studios. This is a perfect place for a slow morning or evening walk. Balat is better explored when in leisure.
Seven Hills View Point Restaurant for Great Views
Seven Hills Restaurant is famous for its magical views. It is located in the heart of Istanbul, near the Sea of Marmara, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque. And each of these places has a rich history that tells the story of Turkey.
So, after walking around the city, you can just come here to relax. Grab a seat on the rooftop, admire the views, and feel the breeze. Additionally, it’s the perfect spot to take your Instagram-worthy photos.
Not just food and views, in the restaurant you can also organise a special event with your loved ones or even conduct a fancy corporate event for more fun.
Unique Sidecar Tour Experience
Booking a sidecar tour in Istanbul takes you to hidden spots at the same time, turning you into a local. Isn’t that the experience you want? When you book, you are just a passenger on the three-seater scooter getting the wind on your face.
One of the locals, an expert in the city, will take you on this tour. They will share with you every bit of secret information about Istanbul that a tourist won’t know.
The guide will take you to famous landmarks and favourite spots of locals, creating authentic moments for you, unlike any other tourist experience. At times, they are not just taking in the scooter. When travelling with a local, you can expect a few spontaneous adventures.
It can be anything like hopping on a ferry and visiting a random spot that will be so much greater than the places Google suggested to you. These sidecar moments are the ones that will elevate your trip, so don’t miss them.
- Cost: Approximately 20,000 INR per person
- Duration: 4-6 hours
Marvel at the Dolmabahçe Palace Architecture
The Dolmabahçe Palace was constructed in the nineteenth century. At that time, it functioned as the administrative headquarters for the Ottomans. The place is also known for its magnificent artwork. You can see an exquisite collection of paintings and sculptures.
Every object inside has an artistic symbol; mainly, most of them are Ottoman treasures. There are numerous fascinating things to notice inside and outside. The most intriguing aspect of this Palace is the crystal chandelier, located in the Ceremonial Hall.
There is a whispered story behind this chandelier. Many say it is cursed and believe that if anyone touches it, they will have misfortune in their life or even meet death.
Also, the story goes that in the chambers are the treasures and wealth that the Ottomans hid. And there are so many stories about this palace. You can go alone or take a guided tour where they explain to you about each place you visit.
If you take a tour, it will be much easier. The guide will explain everything to you and answer any questions you may have about the history or any local characteristics that interest you.
- Ticket Cost: 3,800 INR per person.
Go to the Hagia Sophia Mosque for Byzantine Architecture
The Hagia Sophia Mosque was initially constructed as a church. And, at first, it was known as Magna Ecclesia, dating back to 360 C.E., which is approximately 1,400 years ago.
Hagia Sophia was built three times. The 1st was during the time of Constantine I. He adapted Christianity, and that’s when he built the church. Later, it was fully destroyed by fire, leaving no remains.
Then, Emperor Theodosius II rebuilt it in a basilica-shaped structure. This was also destroyed in the Nika Revolt.
Now, you can see the stunning Byzantine architecture, with its magnificent dome and the lights. And the Byzantine Empire made sure this building would not miss out on the beauty it needed.
The green marble used here is from the marble quarries of Egypt. The yellow stones are from Syria. And the black stones are from the Bosporus region. For this marvellous work of art, this building required 10,000 workers.
It will take about 2 hours to tour the Mosque, and the wait time to enter is just 15-20 minutes.
- Ticket Cost: 2,500 INR per person
Galata Tower for the Best Sight of the City
The Galata Tower is a characteristic of Istanbul. Here, locals and tourists go to take in the finest view of the city. The Byzantine Emperor built this tower (507 AD), but it was later reconstructed by the Genoese (1349).
This Tower served many purposes. Initially, it served as a lighthouse; later, it was used as a prison shelter, and eventually, it was converted into an observatory and a fire tower.
Even this tower, which had stood firmly for many centuries, was destroyed by fire on multiple occasions. However, in 1967, it was transformed into a magnificent building with a cone-shaped top, and it was then converted into a museum.
Even if you’re going alone without a guide, that’s no problem. There is an audio guide service that can help you better understand the historical events that actually happened.
It will be crowded if you visit during peak tourist season. This tower is also situated within a narrow street in Istanbul. Try to reach earlier to dodge waiting time and the rushing crowds.
- Time: 08:30 am – 10:00 pm
- Cost: Approximately 3,100 INR per person
Blue Mosque, for its Grand Dome
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) was constructed in 1609. Among the many Mosques in Istanbul, this one stands out as the most recommended and visited for its majestic domes and intricate blue tiles.
Just like any other memorial and religious places in any country, this Blue Mosque is considered one of the most holy sites in Istanbul. The person who built it was Sultan Ahmed, and Sedefkar Mehmed Agha was the designer at the time.
And the interiors will leave you speechless with their 20,000 tiles, used in the walls, ceilings, and dome.
Unlike other mosques that are purely turned into tourist attractions, this one still remains a spiritual place. Yet, exploring this mosque is one of the best, yet free things to do in Istanbul, Turkey.
Visit Camlica Mosque- the Biggest in Istanbul
Camlica Mosque contributes to Turkey’s rich historical inheritance. It boasts a modern charm that is enhanced by the Bosphorus view, and the building’s design is influenced by Ottoman architecture.
You can either go to the Blue Mosque or this. Here, the crowd is much smaller than that of the mosque. And that is one of the main reasons why people come here.
You can take a slow walk inside, not think about rushing in this calm atmosphere. This is much bigger than the Blue Mosque.
The particular details of this place are that it has towering domes, grand minarets, and very minor detailed patterns throughout the building. When you see this mosque at night and also in daytime, you will see it in two different colours; that’s the magic this place has.
- Entry: Free
- Time: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
Ferry Ride Across the Continent
Just take a ferry and explore Istanbul. This is one of the cheap, fun, exciting, and wonderful activities to do when in Istanbul. If you get a prepared Istanbul transportation card, you can just tap and hop on any ferry.
You can get this card at the airport or any authorised exchange places in the city. And the name of this card is Istanbulkart, and it costs from 320 INR. You can recharge it later, depending on how much travelling you will be doing.
Coming to the ferries, you can take them in Beşiktaş, Karaköy or in Eminönü, which is on the European side of Istanbul. However, if you are on the Asian side of Istanbul, then board ferries in Kadıköy, Üsküdar, or Bostancı. Ferries are much cheaper than taxis and offer a great local yet touristic experience.
Without spending a dime, you get to see the beautiful sights of the city as you sail. And easily go to any of the areas mentioned above and start exploring.
Discover the Historic Greek community, Arnavutkoy
Arnavutköy (Albanian village) – The formation of this neighbourhood dates back to the year 1468. This place was known for its wooden mansion because, back then, houses, shops, and any other buildings were constructed with wood.
We all know there are many parts in Turkey that have been damaged due to fire, which has led to the non-use of timber for house construction.
When you visit now, it has become a tourist spot. You can see many admiring architectural features, and a local restaurant that sits perfectly facing the sea.
And this part of Istanbul is most famous for its hidden gems, like family-run shops. And the AkıntıBurnu Balık Restoranı, which sits facing the coast, has become a popular spot. You can eat and chill, and watch the ferries go by.
Or you can go inside the streets of Arnavutkoy and find many unique roadside food stalls that give you a local experience. Overall, this neighbourhood is a perfect place for romantic walks, sitting by the sea, trying seafood or taking amazing photos.
Visit Maiden’s Tower
The most special place in Istanbul is the Maiden Tower. It is also one of the historical sights that won’t be on a boring list, even if you are not into ancient history. The tower is situated on the sea, surrounded by water but close to the shore, making it an interesting place to visit in Istanbul.
The light from this Maiden’s Tower illuminates the sea at times, which enhances the beauty of the sea and the sky at night. Just watching the sight of it is the most romantic thing to do in Istanbul.
Let’s go back in time to see how this tower has transformed. It was once destroyed by an earthquake, and then it was rebuilt. Unfortunately, it was burned down. Nevertheless, people back then renovated it and used it as a quarantine hospital, barracks, radio station and so on.
Now, it is one of the most desired places to dine in. Yes! It is a cafe and a restaurant setting. It doesn’t end there. Most people visit after hearing the legend.
There was an emperor who built this Tower just to save his daughter from a snake bite. And he was told this by prediction, and it was also said that it would happen on her 18th birthday.
Believing he had broken the prophecy, he gifted an exotic fruit basket on her 18th birthday. But there was a small snake that was in the basket, which eventually bit the daughter, and she died in her father’s arms.
- Cost for Ferry & Visit: Approximately 1,100 INR per person
Reconnect with Nature at Nakkastepe National Garden
It’s time for some nature. I know by now you must have thought, “Does Istanbul only have historical buildings?” It mostly does, but there are other things this city holds, just like this Nakkastepe National Garden.
Going here will be a relaxing day with lush green scenery. This park is located in Uskudar Kuzguncuk, which is on the Asian side of Istanbul. As the park is situated on a slope, when you go there, you get a clear Bosphorus view.
This park was created in a 90,000-square-metre area, so inside there are endless things to do. There are picnic areas, hiking trails, resting spots, kids’ play areas, a fitness area, a zipline, a pond, a tennis court, a bridge, cafes, and so much more.
This is definitely one of the best places in Istanbul to take your family and kids. The whole day will be filled with exciting activities.
- Cost: Free to enter
Explore İstiklal
The beating heart of Istanbul is İstiklal. This is a pedestrian avenue and it is lined with Ottoman and modern architecture buildings.
If you’re someone who loves photography or a pleasing aesthetic street look, just walk around here. You can visit numerous stores and shops that sell unique items that you can take home.
From nightclubs to souvenir shops and entertainment stores, the street will keep you excited with its charm. Moreover, there are also many historical sites you must visit while you are here.
Here are a few places in İstiklal you can go to –
- Rumeli Han: The Secret Tunnel
- Postane: The British Post Office
- Hussein Agha Mosque
- Santa Maria Draperis
- Istanbul Cinema Museum
- Take a Tram
Don’t Miss the Turkish Bath
This well-known Turkish bath is known as a hammam to the locals. This bath method involves steam and exfoliation. You will also receive a relaxing massage to cleanse and rejuvenate your body, which improves blood circulation.
And when roaming around Istanbul, walking endlessly in shopping streets or eating all things in the city, you need a break. This bath will give you the best relaxed time, killing all your tiredness.
Some of the hammam centres you can visit in Istanbul-
Visit Topkapi Palace to Learn about the Ottoman Lifestyle
The Topkapi Palace was the home to Ottoman Sultans for nearly 400 years, and they lived a lavish lifestyle. You can go inside the palace and witness the areas they used to utilise back in their day – private courtyards, the Harem, gardens, and pavilions.
The harem was at first a family quarter with nearly 300 rooms, which was home to the mistress whom the Ottomans enslaved. To visit this part of the palace, the harem requires you to buy a separate ticket.
Then you can go to the Treasury. Here, see how wealthy the Ottomans were in their time. They are still preserving all emeralds, diamonds, rubies, and pearls.
Once you enter, you will be transported back in time. This palace visually depicts how people used to live back then, with its sculptures and setting, showcasing their daily activities.
- Entrance Fee: 1,603 INR, and for the Harem it is 750 INR
Go to the Grand Bazaar
This is the most highly anticipated destination for many tourists visiting the city. Going shopping is definitely one of the fun things to do in Istanbul, especially in the Grand Bazaar. You will be surprised to learn that this place spans 31 hectares.
This is a massive marketplace with over 5,000 shops and 60 streets in the area, filled with a wide range of things to buy. Like every other pillar and building in Istanbul, this bazaar has a history as well. Even as far back as 1461, this was the hub for major trading.
Unlike other markets in other countries, you don’t have to worry about rainy and sunny times. The market is well-constructed, featuring a dome-shaped design. So, you can shop under the shade without worrying about the weather.
Once you enter, expect to spend a minimum of 2-3 hours browsing the items here. It is literally a paradise for shopaholics, from shiny souvenirs, jewellery, colourful spices, Aladdin Rugs, rare antiques, cheap clothes, and a lot of food stalls.
Note: In most shops, vendors invite you in or offer free items or even tea. Don’t fall for those tactics, because later they will charge you for that or ask you to buy something. And if you hesitate to bargain, you will end up overpaying them.
Try Turkish Breakfast
Chasing food is the most enjoyable thing; hunting the best food in a new country is a challenge you should take on. Turkish food has gained more popularity in recent years. It is because of how people make this trending, and tourism here is growing significantly.
The reason Turkish food is loved by many is its variety of ingredients and the way they are presented beautifully. With freshly made bread, honey, juicy tomatoes, cheese, olives, spices, and eggs, this meal is a fantastic feast.
Here are some of the best foods in Istanbul that you need to try: Borek, Simit, Menemen, Sucuk, and Eggs, among others. And, anywhere you dine, try to ask for specials and try something new.
Best Breakfast places in Istanbul to dine in for deliciousness and finest ambience-
- Bi Kahvalti
- 180 Coffee & Bakery
- Naga Putrika
- Saade Kahvalti
- Lades Menemen
- Van Kahvaltı Evi
- Çınaraltı Tarihi Çay Bahçesi
- Hatay Gurme
- Ethem Efendi Kahvaltı
Find the Best Turkish Desserts
There is one word echoing “Baklava”- we all know this is the best dessert in Turkey. But there is more to this list. One of the local things to do in Istanbul is spotting all the best dessert corners. And knowing the best shop you can go to.
Here are a few delicious desserts you need to try in Istanbul that will make you crave: Künefe, Lokum, Tavukgöğsü, Fırında sütlaç, Revani, Tulumba, Un helvası, Aşure, Pişmaniye, Lokma, and Katmer.
There are many desserts, but the ones mentioned above are the ones you must not miss at any cost. And then, of course, the best of all is the Turkish ice cream that is known worldwide.
We have all seen in malls, even in India, or in any video, how the vendor performs tricks when giving out the cone to the customer.
And do you know, Turkish ice creams are meant to be eaten with a knife and fork. Yes! The consistency is so thick because it contains more salep, a type of flour. That is why when they flip it multiple times, it doesn’t fall. And this ice cream is called Kahramanmaras.
Then comes the famous burnt ice cream, invented in 1940 in Antalya, Turkey. It was then instantly loved by all and became known as Yaniksi Dondurma. So, when it comes to desserts, Turkey ensures that everything they make goes around the world.
The best dessert shops in Istanbul you must go to
- Hafiz Mustafa 1864
- Meşhur Dondurmacı Ali Usta
- Galleria Vitavien
- Cigdem Patisserie
- Confectioner Cafer Erol
- MENDEL’S Akaretler
Day Trip to Prince’s Island
Princes’ Island is the perfect island for a day trip from Istanbul. Take a ferry ride that takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes from Istanbul, costing 150 INR per person.
When you are there, you can see many flowers in the streets, and it’s definitely a place away from city life, taking you far from the hustle and bustle.
And on the island, you cannot see cars; all motorised vehicles, basically any fuel-powered vehicle, are restricted. But you can rent cycles, and there are many electric bikes you can rent for the day to explore the streets.
Going there is a unique experience, an island that strives every day to preserve nature and thrive. You can walk around and sit by the cute cafes and open-air restaurants to sip the best coffee and taste yummy food.
Have Fun Time at the Museum of Illusions Istanbul
It is now time to stop thinking about history, culture, or where to go next or what to do. Going to the Museum of Illusions will transport you into a world of fun. This place allows you to escape from your stress and rediscover the joy of being a child again.
And when you enter, you’ll find many rooms offering diverse experiences. It’s a perfect place to laugh and take memorable pictures.
You get to undergo Rotated Room, The Vortex Tunnel, Infinity Room, and Ames Room. Each of these parts is crazily good. Plus, you will encounter crazy things like photo illusions, optical illusions, and holograms. It might feel surreal, but it’s a real place you are experiencing all this.
- Cost: 1,140 INR for adults. 830 INR for kids.
Things To Remember When Visiting Istanbul
- When visiting spiritual places, such as mosques, it is essential to dress appropriately. So, men and women must cover their shoulders and knees.
- Women should carry a scarf when visiting Mosques. As Turkey is an Islamic country, it is good to show respect for their beliefs.
- When visiting the Grand Bazaar or any other marketplaces, try to bargain as much as possible. If you are not, then you might get scammed and will end up giving more than the original amount.
- Taking an Istanbulkart is the best thing to do in Istanbul to save money on transportation.
- Istanbul is an expensive city, yet it doesn’t stop thousands of travellers from coming here. So, to avoid the crowd, consider visiting major attractions early in the morning.
- Local people here are friendly, but be cautious not to fall for any traps. The vendor or anyone may invite you into their shop for a cup of tea, then force you to buy things.
- In the night shows, hotels, or on the streets, the workers will take pictures of you. You might have agreed to it, thinking it’s a friendly gesture, but later, they will start charging.
Conclusion
Turkey is a vast country with numerous cities to visit in a short period. That is why people often choose to visit Istanbul, which offers everything to you.
The colourful streets, pretty-looking breakfast plates, stunning mosques, and even the random streets you walk on all contribute to an unforgettable experience here.
While Istanbul stays on many of our bucket lists, don’t you think manifesting it a little can take that out of the bucket? I would say, start planning your trip and don’t overthink or wait for someone to accompany you.
If you really want to experience Istanbul, consider making this trip, even as a solo. When you keep waiting for someone, you are missing out on so much.
There are many things to do alone in Istanbul. Even those mentioned above can be enjoyed independently. All you need is a little motivation and a push to get you out of your comfort zone.
Frequently Asked Questions on Top Things to Do in Istanbul, Turkey
How many days are enough to explore Istanbul?
4 to 5 days are perfect to explore Istanbul. With this time, you can cover all the main attractions and experience all the local sights in the city.
Is Istanbul safe for tourists?
Yes, Istanbul is safe for travellers. It is widely known for its friendly locals. However, you need to take care of yourself and try to avoid any isolated areas at night.
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
March to May or September to November is the best time to visit Istanbul. When it’s hot in Turkey, it can also be cold, with snow. But these months give mild temperatures to enjoy the things in Istanbul.
