Planning a trip to Istanbul and wondering about the top places to visit?
Istanbul is one of the most popular cities in Europe, attracting countless tourists. Its unique position, straddling two continents, along with its rich culture and history, makes it a must-visit destination. There’s something for everyone in Istanbul—whether you’re a culture lover, a shopper, or a food enthusiast. To help you get the most out of your trip, here’s a list of some of the best things to do in Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Situated in the Sultan Ahmed district, it’s close to other major attractions like the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Originally built as a Christian cathedral over 1400 years ago during the Roman Empire, it became a mosque with the addition of minarets by the Ottomans. In the 1930s, it was turned into a museum, and since 2018, it’s been a functioning mosque again. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is another must-see. This Ottoman-era mosque, completed in 1616, is stunning with its five main domes, eight secondary domes, and six minarets. Inside, it’s adorned with beautiful hand-painted tiles. Like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Topkapi Palace is another top tourist attraction. Located near Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, this 15th-century palace served as the main residence of the Ottoman sultans during the 15th and 16th centuries. Today, it’s a vast museum dedicated to the Ottoman Empire and modern Turkey, and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Dating back to the 15th century, it spans over 30,000 square meters with more than 50 covered streets and 4000 shops. It’s a paradise for shoppers and those who love to haggle, offering everything from spices and sweets to jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. The surrounding area is filled with small shops and local eateries, making it a vibrant place to explore.
Galata Tower, located in the Beyoğlu district, dates back to the 14th century. Originally used as a prison in the 16th century, it’s now a museum with a restaurant at the top. The observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Bosphorus. The Galata neighborhood itself is one of Istanbul’s oldest, known for its charm with small shops, chic bars, and traditional restaurants.
Istiklal Caddesi is a bustling pedestrian street in the heart of Istanbul, packed with shops, boutiques, and brand stores. It’s perfect for shopping, especially for clothes and footwear. The street is famous for its sweet shops and unique Turkish ice cream (Dondurma) vendors. A nostalgic tram runs down the middle of the street, adding to its historic charm.
Balat is another of Istanbul’s storied neighborhoods. Known for its vibrant history and once home to the Jewish community, its streets are lined with historic stone houses, many of which are now colorful cafes, restaurants, and hotels. It’s a picturesque area popular with tourists.
Don’t miss out on exploring Istanbul’s Asian side. Istanbul spans both European and Asian continents, divided by the Bosphorus strait, and connected by the Bosphorus Bridge and several ferries. The Asian side is home to Turkey’s largest mosque, the Grand Çamlıca Mosque, which is perched on a hill and visible from many parts of the city. One of the city’s historic trams, the Kadıköy-Moda Nostalgia Tramway, also runs here. The Moda Coastal Park and Pathway is great for a relaxing walk.
Lastly, Emirgan Park is a large public park that’s especially beautiful in the spring when flowers are in full bloom. Known for its tulip beds, the park hosts an international tulip festival every April. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy nature in the city.