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Wander-Lush

42 Things to Know Before You Visit Istanbul: Helpful Istanbul Travel Tips

Istanbul is a magnificent beast.

Thirty-nine districts, 15 million people, and 1700-plus years of history – it’s still difficult for me to wrap my head around a city of this scale.

I never know where to begin with Istanbul. And yet every time I arrive, I somehow feel instantly at ease. Turkey’s biggest metropolis has a way of encircling you, sweeping you up and taking you along for the ride. For me, it’s one of those places where it’s best to relinquish expectations and anxieties and just go with the flow.

That’s easier said than done, and there are countless tidbits I wish I had known before I visited Istanbul for the first time back in 2019. On my recent re-visit, there were many more things I noticed for the first time.

I struggled to whittle this list down to a digestible size – not because travelling in Istanbul is particularly complicated or difficult, but because when you’re dealing with a city of such incredible breadth and depth, there’s just so much to talk about.

Here are 42 Istanbul tips that I think every traveller will benefit from , including cultural quirks, itinerary planning tips, logistics hints, and common faux pas.

• Also read: The perfect itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Istanbul quick links

• Istanbul airport transfer: Private transfer from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen (from $27)
• Where to stay in Istanbul: Hostel Le Banc (budget); 38 Hotel (mid-range); Hotel Empress Zoe (boutique); Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (luxury)
• Istanbul Official E-Pass: Pre-purchase online here
• Skip the line: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour (from $40)
• Best Istanbul food tour: Taste of 2 Continents (from $100)
• Top-rated Istanbul city tour: Best of Istanbul in 1 Day (from $60)
• Turkey car hire: Find a low-cost rental on Local Rent (from 28€/day)

Essential Istanbul travel tips

Starting with the basics, here are answers to some of the burning questions I had before my first visit to Turkey (Türkiye) and Istanbul.

1. Avoid visiting in summer

Never underestimate Istanbul’s magnetism. The city pulled in more than 14 million tourists in 2019 (including me), and on my most recent trip in 2022, it felt just as crowded as it had been three years earlier.

I’m willing to bet that most people visit Istanbul during the summer months – June, July and August. This feels a bit hypocritical because I myself have visited Istanbul twice during summer – but because I did, I know what peak season is like.

Istanbul’s climate is quite mild relative to other cities in the region. Temperatures might not go too far beyond 30 degrees Celsius in the shade, but the sun is scorching hot, and it’s very dry.

Aside from the oppressive heat, there are the summer swarms to contend with. (You haven’t really experienced a queue until you’ve stood in line for the Hagia Sophia on an August afternoon.) There are crushing crowds at every landmark during summer, and that gets old pretty quickly. On top of that, accommodation prices are noticeably higher and it can be challenging to get a reservation.

The best time to visit Istanbul is during shoulder season, spring (April to early June) or autumn (mid-September to the start of November). For something different, consider visiting Turkey in winter , when snow covers Istanbul and the city’s charm-o-metre is off the charts.

Take note of the dates for the Holy Month of Ramadan (usually around March-April-May, but it changes every year), which influences the way the city operates.

2. You need at least three days to do Istanbul justice

However many days you give yourself in Istanbul, it will never be enough. You will always feel like you short-changed yourself – there’s always one more neighbourhood to explore, one more ferry trip to take, one more museum to visit, one more restaurant to try…

Three days is the bare minimum for a first-time visitor, but you could easily stay for a week or more.

I recently spent 10 days in Istanbul and found it was a good amount of time to see the city at a relaxed pace. I stayed in the centre for that entire time, though I did have a few ‘down’ days to work. There are dozens of day trip opportunities to break things up if the city gets to be too much.

One of the highlights of Istanbul is the food, so you’d do well to measure the duration of your stay in meals eaten rather than nights slept! Six square meals (and a couple of ‘spread breakfasts’) is ideal for indulging in the best of Istanbul’s food scene .

Plan your time with my 4-day Istanbul itinerary , which covers the must-sees and a few local gems.

3. Save time (and maybe money) by applying for an e-visa

Most nationalities require a tourist visa to enter Türkiye. The country’s e-visa scheme, which launched in 2013, is available to citizens of 40+ countries, including the States, Australia and Canada. (EU citizens do not need a visa.) A standard multiple-entry visa is valid for a stay of up to 90 days with 180 days validity from the date of issue.

Visa on arrival (VOA) is also available, but if you’re flying in, it requires queueing at the airport – and because of the high volume of flights arriving at IST particularly, it can be a long wait. For some nationalities, it’s also more expensive – 10 USD dearer on average compared to the e-visa according to the official fees (though for US passport holders, VOA is cheaper).

Applying for a Turkish e-visa requires completing a simple online form. The website has English-language support and international card payment, but be warned that sometimes it’s a bit glitchy. Both times I’ve applied, my visa has landed in my inbox almost instantly (within the hour). Be sure to print off the A4 piece of paper to show at immigration.

There are copycat sites out there – the official e-visa portal is located here .

I have never been asked for proof of onward travel or a hotel reservation when entering Turkey. If you want one or both for peace of mind without making an actual booking, then I suggest using OneWayFly .

4. Travel insurance is a must

Travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Turkey. Again, you might not be asked to show proof of insurance if you’re travelling on an e-visa (I haven’t), but rules are rules nonetheless.

Istanbul is generally regarded as a safe city, but pickpocketing and crime do occur. More importantly, local health care can be expensive, so it pays to be covered in case of accident or unexpected illness.

For single-policy or annual trip insurance, I recommend HeyMondo. Get 5% off your policy when you sign up using this link .

Read up on these Istanbul safety tips before you go.

5. Use the Havabus (Havaist) shuttle to travel to/from the airport

Update: Since publishing this guide, both Istanbul airports now have an underground metro service. I would definitely look into this option – avoiding traffic could be a real time-saver. Here are more details .

Havabus is a terrific service for travelling between Istanbul’s airports (yes, there is more than one – see the next point) and the downtown area. Shuttles operate 24/7, with departures in both directions every 30-60 minutes.

Tip: At Sabiha Gokcen airport, the shuttle is called Havabus and at Istanbul Airport, it’s called Havaist. I have used both – they operate in much the same way, but they have separate websites for checking the schedule ( here for Havabus and here for Havaist).

When you land in Istanbul, look for the airport bus signage. At Sabiha Gokcen, the bus stand is located on the other side of the car park directly in front of the arrivals terminal. Tickets are purchased using cash on the bus and cost 37.50 TRY (around 2 USD) per person to go to Taksim.

If you prefer a private transfer, airport cars are very well priced (from $27 to/from either airport). Pre-book a door-to-door airport transfer online here .

Eventually the Istanbul metro will extend to IST Airport, but the line has not been completed yet.

6. There are multiple airports in Istanbul – don’t front up at the wrong one!

Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s largest and busiest international airport. Located on the European side in Arnavutkoy, 40km / 45 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square, it is sometimes referred to as ‘Istanbul Grand Airport’ or IGA. If you’re flying with Turkish Airlines or from Europe, there’s a high chance you will be landing at IST.

A second airport, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), receives flights from the Middle East (Emirates, Qatar ) as well as Turkey’s own Pegasus Airlines. It is located on the Asian side, 40km / 60 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square.

A third airport, Ataturk Airport, closed in 2019.

The two airports are 80km apart and it takes at least 75-90 minutes to travel between them. There are shuttle buses, but if you show up at the wrong one for your flight, there’s a good chance you’ll be left high and dry. Triple-check your reservation and make sure you show up at the correct airport.

We got caught out with this on our first trip and rolled up at the wrong airport for our flight back to Australia. Luckily we had come a day early with the intention of staying the night at the airport hotel, so we still made our flight.

You can use Havabus/Havaist to get back to the airport from the city, too. Buses depart from Taksim Square. Take the metro to Taksim and follow the exit towards Taksim Gezi Park. From there, the station is a short walk (you will see the coaches waiting and two ticket booths on the footpath).

Buses to both airports depart from the same area, so again, triple-check you’re hopping on the right one!

7. Pre-book your accommodation

Hotel platform Booking.com doesn’t work in Turkey, so if this is your preferred way to find accommodation, you’ll need to do your browsing and booking before you arrive. (This can be overcome by using a VPN of course.)

Pre-booking is essential for peak-period travel as properties do fill up and prices can skyrocket for last-minute reservations.

I normally use Airbnb in Istanbul for the simple reason that I prefer to stay in local neighbourhoods. Sisli is my district of choice: It has great access to public transport, fantastic local restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe.

8. Card is widely accepted, but it helps to carry cash

Ninety-nine percent of venues and shops in Istanbul accept credit/debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, as well as contactless pay. For small markets and convenience stores, local restaurants, bars and taxis – and when dipping into the wonderful world of Istanbul street food – you’ll need cash.

Many smaller shops in Turkey have a primary limit set on card purchases, meaning you need to meet a certain threshold if you want to pay with a card. In these instances, cash is necessary. Small bills also come in handy for tipping (more on that later).

I suggest withdrawing cash when you first arrive and reserving it for smaller purchases and tips. Check out my Istanbul Travel Budget to learn more about budgeting for your trip and the cost of common items and services.

9. Most ATMs in Turkey charge a fee

ATMs are ubiquitous in Istanbul and most of the time, you’ll see half a dozen different cash machines clustered together. Majority charge a withdrawal fee – up to 5% for some banks – and have a transaction limit of between 3000-5000 TRY.

The only no-fee ATM we could find was Ziraat Bank. It’s red with a distinctive wheatear logo. We also used HalkBank, which did not charge us a withdrawal fee, but did hit us with a 13 TRY fee on Wise.

Banks change their fee structure regularly, so you might need to experiment with a few different machines. If the bank does charge a fee – either a flat fee or a percentage – this should always be displayed on the screen before you finalise the transaction.

On our first trip to Turkey, we had issues with our Australian bank cards not being accepted. This time around, I used my Wise card without any issues. I found the best method for withdrawing cash was to exchange stored currency to Turkish lira within the Wise app, then withdraw lira from the ATM.

Wise is great for international travel and offers very competitive exchange rates – if you don’t yet have an account, you can sign up here .

10. Buying a SIM card in Istanbul is easy, but your options are limited

Open WIFI is not readily accessible in Istanbul, which makes buying a local SIM card more or less a necessity.

If you’re not a Turkish citizen and you don’t hold a residency permit, you’ll find you have limited options when it comes to buying a SIM. Low-cost packages are not available to foreigners and most telcos only offer one standard tourist package.

After doing a bit of research, we settled on a Vodafone SIM. Vodafone only has one option for tourists, which includes 20GB of data, calls and texts, and unlimited access to Whatsapp. We paid 350 TRY (around 19 USD).

The process of buying a SIM is very straightforward and only took us about 15 minutes. You need a hard copy of your passport for registration, so make sure you’re carrying it with you. The tourist SIM automatically expires after 60 days.

11. The public transport system is phenomenal

If you’re considering hiring a car in Turkey to continue your travels beyond the city, make sure you pick it up on the outskirts of the city (possible when using a company such as Local Rent ). The traffic is maniacal and I would not recommend driving in the city centre.

There’s no reason to drive a car in Istanbul, anyway: The public transport system is affordable, easy to use and reliable. Between the metro, trams, buses, ferries, and my personal favourite, dolmus vans, you can get anywhere you need to go with ease. Google Maps works well for planning your route.

Dolmus minivans – Turkey’s answer to a marshrutka – are a fun experience. The name literally means ‘stuffed’ because passengers are squeezed in like sardines. Keep in mind that the entire transport network is very busy and squishy during peak hour, especially in the morning between about 8-9.30am.

When boarding a bus in Istanbul, enter through the front door and tap your IstanbulKart on the electronic reader. If the bus is very full, you can board through the back doors and pass your card down the line for someone at the front to swipe.

12. You need an IstanbulKart transport pass

On our first trip to Istanbul, we walked a lot and relied on buying single-journey metro tickets for longer trips. This time around, we re-learned that only certain ticket machines inside the metro dispense single tickets – and usually they are the ones with an obnoxiously long line of people.

An IstanbulKart is an essential purchase if you plan to use public transport. There are several different cards available – all are valid for the metro, buses, trams and ferries. The so-called Anonymous IstanbulKart is recommended for tourists and is sold at kiosks and newsstands and inside metro stations for 50 TRY (non-refundable). You can use one card for multiple people (up to five people).

A single IstanbulKart fare costs 7.67 TRY. Compared to the 15 TRY for a single-journey ticket, you’ll end up saving almost 50% on every trip.

Note that metrobus fares vary according to the number of stops travelled, but metro fares are flat. Transfers are charged at 5.49 TRY for the first transfer and 4.17 TRY for the second leg.

Find more information about the public transport system here .

13. Use an app for taxis in Istanbul

Istanbul’s cab system is similarly well organised, with three types of taxis at different price points. Yellow taxis are standard and have the lowest fares (6.3 TL/km plus a switch-on fee of 9.8 TL). Turquoise taxis are a premium service and cost 20% more, while black taxis (always luxury vehicles) are twice as expensive as yellow taxis.

Taxis are metered, so it’s generally considered safe for a tourist to hail a cab on the street. However, scams do happen , which is one of the reasons most people (including many locals) prefer to use an app.

After numerous legal battles, Uber re-launched in Turkey in 2021. We used it on several occasions and found the service to be good – short wait times, friendly drivers, and competitive fares (we always paid in cash rather than hooking up our credit card – make sure you are carrying small bills).

Uber alternatives include BiTaksi and Itaksi. The former has POS contactless payment, which is great for paying by card.

14. Tipping is standard

Tipping is customary in Turkey, with 10% being the standard mark for restaurants and bars. For taxi drivers, it’s normal to round up to the nearest lira when paying in cash.

Of course you should only tip if you’re satisfied with the service. We found the quality of customer service in Istanbul to be pretty good across the board, with the exception of one chain cafe where we had a terrible experience.

Tipping is slightly higher for other service providers: 10-20% goes to your tellak or natir at the Turkish baths, and to your hairdresser or barber.

15. Can you drink the tap water in Istanbul?

This is a rhetorical question, because I’m still not sure what the correct answer is! Locals will warn you off tap water while at the same time, the government is running campaigns to encourage more people to drink from the faucet.

From what I understand, Istanbul tap water was undrinkable a decade ago. Infrastructure improvements (and the addition of chlorine to the water stream) have made tap water safe to drink, but many people still prefer to drink bottled water.

If the building you’re staying in has old, rusty pipes, it might be best to give tap water a wide berth. Try a small quantity and see how it sits with you.

16. Don’t flush your loo paper

Istanbul’s pipes are a bit sensitive, thus most restaurants, cafes and hotels request you place toilet tissue in a bin rather than flushing it down the loo. If this is the case, you’ll likely see a sign and a strategically placed wastepaper bin. If in doubt, don’t flush it.

17. If you need a bathroom, head to the nearest mosque

After chasing after non-existent bathrooms in malls and metro stations, I finally cottoned onto this little Istanbul tip: There are public toilets attached to most mosques and in my experience, they are almost always cleaner than public bathrooms elsewhere. Pan toilets are common. Men’s rooms are marked with bay , and women’s with bayan .

Some bathrooms are free to use, while others charge a small (1-2 TRY) fee. Another good reason to carry some small bills or coins with you.

18. Sip ayran to keep your tummy happy

Ayran is a savoury yogurt drink that has its roots in Turkey, but is popular around the region (I developed my ayran addiction several years ago in Bosnia and Herzegovina and have been sipping it ever since). It’s not too creamy, not too watery, and has just a hint of salty effervescence.

Because it’s yogurt, it’s full of good bacteria that do wonders to keep your gut in balance. Just as you might drink lassis in India, you can drink ayran in Istanbul to help ward off any potential food or water-related bugs.

Food poisoning definitely does occur in Istanbul, so watch what you eat and try to consume street food earlier in the day when it’s fresher (especially fish wraps and seafood).

People drink ayran with breakfast, lunch or dinner, and it is served at virtually every restaurant in Istanbul – either in little plastic tubs or from a fountain. Always go for the fresh option when it’s available: It’s light and aerated and extra delicious, presented with a big scoop of yogurty foam on top.

19. Drinking is common, but alcohol is not ubiquitous

The most popular alcoholic drinks in Istanbul are beer, wine and raki , a powerful spirit distilled from grapes or other fruits. Not all restaurants serve alcohol, however, and when you make your way over to the Asian side of Istanbul (which is noticeably more conservative), you’ll find that only a handful of establishments are licensed.

If you prefer to BYO, tekels are Istanbul’s answer to bottle shops. They normally sell a selection of local bottled beers and Turkish wines along with soft drinks, snack foods and cigarettes. It’s illegal to sell alcohol within 100 metres of a mosque or a school, so you won’t find any tekels in some neighbourhoods.

Sales are restricted to certain times of day – you cannot purchase drinks from a bottle shop between 10am and 6am (there are no restrictions on restaurants and bars, though). Alcohol is served as normal during Ramadan.

Excessive drinking is taboo in Turkish culture. Raki, the national drink, is a social beverage consumed slowly with food. It has aniseed notes and is sometimes served over water and ice, which gives it a milky colour.

If you want to try raki, head to a meyhane (meze bar), where alcohol is served with small places of food (also see point #26 on this list). You can order a small 350 mL bottle or a shot (~40 mL). Start slow – some rakis are 80-90 proof.

20. English is widely spoken (sort of)

The number of Turkish people who speak English is somewhere between 15-20% . Of course the rate is much higher in Istanbul, but still, English is not as widespread as you might imagine.

We found a bit of a paradox here: In big shops and phone stores, very little English was spoken, while we encountered staff who spoke perfect English in small restaurants and humble bakeries.

The bottom line is that it’s a bit of a mixed bag, so be prepared to sign and mime your way through some situations. Of course it helps to have some simple Turkish under your belt – knowing a few basic phrases can help to smooth things over.

Istanbul quirks to know before you go

Here are a few unusual quirks that tripped us up in Istanbul.

21. Pharmacies are hard to find

Turkey differentiates between ‘pharmacies’ and ‘cosmetic stores’ in a way that I’ve not noticed in any other country. The latter sells beauty and health products, but there is no pharmacist on staff and nowhere to buy over-the-counter medications or prescription meds.

Chains such as Watsons, Rossmann and Gratis are classified as ‘cosmetics stores’. If you need anything more serious than paracetamol or a revitalising face mask, you need a pharmacy or eczane .

Eczanesi are more difficult to come by. That’s because there are no chain pharmacies in Turkey. All pharmacies are small and owner-operated by a pharmacist – essentially mom-and-pop shops. You won’t find them in malls, only on the streets. Look for the ‘eczanesi’ sign in the window, and when using Google Maps, search for ‘eczane’ rather than ‘pharmacy’.

Pharmacies are worth hunting down if you need them: Many medicines are freely available in Turkey without a prescription, and prices are almost always cheaper than elsewhere in Europe. You do have to ask around, though, as every pharmacy has different stock and different generic brands. My partner spent several days searching for his medication and after asking at a dozen eczanesi, he finally found what he was looking for at a quarter of the price it is in Georgia.

22. Hand cologne is a thing

Istanbulites were sanitising their hands long before it was cool. The first time we had our hands doused in hand cologne by a friendly waiter, we assumed it was hand sanitiser – but no, this tradition far predates the pandemic.

Kolonya harks back to the days of the Ottoman Empire when a pleasant smelling liquid was sprinkled on guests’ hands as they would enter or exit private homes, hotels or hospitals. Today it’s widely used in restaurants after you pay the check. Some places have a little bottle on the table next to the salt and pepper shakers.

Scented with jasmine, lemon, rosewater or dark spice, a dash of hand cologne leaves your paws smelling fragrant fresh. Unlike hand gel, kolonya is very thin and watery – a little bit goes a long way. And because it’s ethanol-based, it does act as a disinfectant as well.

23. Don’t be surprised if you get asked for your phone number

Grocery stores, cosmetic stores, clothing shops and pharmacies alike seem to ask customers for a local phone number – I assume for marketing purposes rather than to track or register anything. This happened to us on a daily basis, and the first few times, the language barrier made it very confusing.

If you don’t have a local SIM (and even if you do), you can always say no and the cashier will copy a random number off the back of an old receipt.

24. Don’t stay too close to a mosque if you like to sleep in

Istanbul has its own backing track, and that is the sound of the call to prayer ( ezan ). The rumble of minarets whispering to each other is incredibly stirring – but your opinion might be slightly different if you happen to be laying your head near a mosque’s speakerbox every night.

The call to prayer happens five times a day, starting with the pre-dawn İmsak ( Fajr ), which reverberates around the city some time between 4-6am depending on the time of year. In July, it can be as early as 3.30am, with a second Sunrise ( Güneş ) call around 2 hours later.

With well over 3,000 mosques, you’ll more than likely have at least one or two nearby. If you’re a light sleeper, it’s worth scoping out the local mosques and choosing accommodation that’s further than earshot from the nearest minaret.

25. Don’t linger too long at a lokanta

Lokanta are a specific type of Turkish restaurant that serve casual, home-style meals to workers and tradesmen. Every neighbourhood has them, and they are a terrific place to sample salt-of-the-earth Turkish cuisine and soak up a bit of local culture at the same time.

When you sit down at a lokanta, a waiter will come to take your order within seconds. Some are cafeteria style, others are a-la-carte. At the end of the meal, empty plates are spirited away and the table sprayed and wiped just as fast as the food came out. Usually you settle the bill at a cash desk rather than requesting a written check.

It’s easy to overstay your welcome at this type of establishment, where the imperative is to turn tables as quickly as possible. They are perfect when you need a quick bite, but if you want a leisurely meal, choose a different sort of restaurant. Sidewalk meyhanes , for example, are the complete opposite. Serving meze and raki, they are designed for long, lingering lunches.

26. Don’t assume those meze plates are free

It’s normal for wait staff at a meyhane to present you with an attractive tray of small plates before they take your order. Turkish meze includes grilled eggplant with yogurt, fava beans, artichoke, and many, many more delicious bites designed for sharing over a bottle of raki.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming these small side salads are free – they are not. (Sides of chopped onion, herbs and chilli served in smaller silver dishes with kebab, on the other hand, are usually included in the price.)

27. Brace yourself for lots of uphill walking

They don’t call Istanbul the ‘City on Seven Hills’ for nothing. After a few days walking the streets, you might think the ‘city of seven million hills’ is a more apt nickname.

Constantinople was laid out in the image of Rome, which was of course built over a septet of hills. On the ground, it feels like all of Istanbul is rippled, with steep streets and vertiginous staircases at almost every turn. There are many advantages to this city plan, the delightfully sloped houses in Balat for one, and the spectacular city views you get from the higher elevations for another.

Comfy shoes and a whole lot of patience are absolutely essential when exploring Istanbul on foot, where it can literally feel like an uphill battle to get from one place to the next.

There are ways to avoid the slog, including using the funicular railways: Taksim-Kabatas and the historic Tunel that links Karakoy and Beyoglu. The latter is the world’s second-oldest subterranean rail line (after the London Underground) and the oldest still-operating underground funicular in Europe.

Istanbul travel tips to feel like a local

While it takes more than a three or four-day stay to feel like a fully fledged Istanbulite, here are a few little tricks to help you fit in.

28. Dress modestly to blend in

Istanbul is a metropolis through and through, with a liberal dress code to match. Almost anything goes, but I still recommend you cover up for comfort and to fit in with the crowd. Women should try to avoid plunging necklines, revealing fabrics, and very short hemlines.

There are noticeable differences between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, with more modest dress and more hijabs worn in Uskudar compared to Eminonu, for example. Generally speaking, Turkey gets more conservative the further east you go, and this holds true even in the city centre. Keep it in mind if you’re travelling around the country.

One place you definitely must observe the dress code is mosques, where covered arms (to the elbow for men or the wrist for women) and legs (down to the ankles) is required. Women must also cover their hair. Majority of mosques have pull-over muumuus that you can borrow (for free) at the door to fully cover up. Note that there are no dress requirements for young kids.

It’s obligatory to remove your shoes when entering a mosque, so on days when you’re sightseeing, wear kicks that you can easily slip off and on. And if you prefer not to go barefoot, carry a pair of ankle socks in the bottom of your bag. Some mosques provide plastic bags, otherwise you can just leave your shoes outside.

29. Never skip breakfast…

Breakfast is certainly the most important meal of the day in Turkey. Sunday breakfast is the queen of the morning meals, when the famous kahvalti tabagi ‘spread breakfast’ comes into its own.

On a Sunday, some Istanbulites spend the better part of the day between mid-morning and late afternoon gathered around the breakfast table with friends or family, noshing on an extravagant spread of cheeses, olives, cut vegetables and eggs served with supple somun bread. Kahvalti is a daily occurrence in places like Besiktast ‘Breakfast Street’ and in gourmet cafes such as Van Kahvalti.

If you’re on a tight timeline or a budget, breakfast doesn’t have to be drawn-out or expensive: There are faster and more affordable options, such as a pick-and-choose breakfast at Cakmak Kahvalti Salonu, where small plates range from 2-8 TRY each. 

Borekcisi (borek bakeries) serve portions of steaming hot filled pastry and chai, or for a simple breakfast snack on the go, grab a simit bagel from a street vendor.

30. …But don’t order coffee first thing

Kahvalti means ‘before coffee’. Breakfast is traditionally accompanied by cay , strong black tea, rather than Turkish coffee. It’s normal to down half a dozen glasses of tea in a single sitting (though two or three is usually enough). Most sit-down kahvalti breakfasts come with two pots of tea.

If you want to do things like a local, save your Türk kahvesi for after lunch and start your morning with cay sade – strong and bitter tea with no sugar – instead.

31. Don’t be afraid to haggle at the bazaar

Haggling is customary and expected at markets in Istanbul and in other commercial settings. You’ll find that most items at the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar have a price tag, but for those that don’t (and even for those that do), it’s quite normal to bargain for a better price. This is especially true if you’re buying more than one of something or multiple items from the same vendor. Rule of thumb is to aim for a 35-50% discount on the sticker price.

There are huge mark-ups at the Grand Bazaar, which seems to be almost exclusively the domain of tourists these days. There are local markets and street markets all over Istanbul where you’ll have a better chance of striking gold for a fair figure. Markets are held on different days of the week and following a rotating schedule, so you can always find something on. Popular food and flea markets take place in Karakoy (Tuesdays), Ortakoy (Thursdays), Uskudar (Fridays), and Besiktas (Saturdays).

If you do decide to brave the Grand Bazaar or another historic market in Istanbul, the best advice I’ve heard is to do your shopping in the mid-morning. It’s more likely that vendors have already made a few sales and met their daily commission targets, so there will be less pressure on you.

32. Don’t fall for the ‘shoe cleaner trick’

This one got us good.

One early morning we were walking down an alleyway in Besiktas when we heard a clack on the cobbles and noticed that someone had dropped a wooden shoe brush. Being the saint he is, my partner rushed to pick it up without a second thought and handed it back to the shoe cleaner whose caddy it had tumbled from.

Expressing his profound thanks, the guy promptly took a seat on the curb at our feet and insisted on shaking my husband’s hand in gratitude. That’s when he grabbed him by the wrist in a monkey grip and tried to pull him down for a coerced shoe cleaning. I should mention that he was wearing joggers, not leather shoes!

Neither of us were aware of this common scam at the time, so we thought the whole situation was quite hilarious. The man had a gorgeous smile and was very friendly – we actually gave him credit for this ingenious trick.

Only later when we heard about the scam did we realise what had (almost) happened to us. Ross managed to talk his way out of it, dirty shoes still intact.

We were not mad in the slightest, but it could have been a different story had we actually been talked into handing over cash. Keep an eye out for this trick, especially in touristy areas.

33. Embrace cat culture

There are up to a million cats and kittens living on the streets of Istanbul. Every cafe is a cat cafe, and every corner has its own posse of cute pusses. A picture-perfect clowder of cats lounging on fence posts and chairs like the princes and princesses they are awaits you at every turn.

Similar to street dogs in Georgia , the cats of Istanbul are regarded as community pets rather than strays and are fed and cared for by the locals. For the most part, they don’t bother people and keep to themselves. We definitely encountered a few fiercer felines on our travels – it’s pretty obvious which cats want pats and which ones need their personal space. They will let you know with a dagger stare or a hiss.

Cat culture can be traced back to Ottoman times, when tabbys helped to quash the city’s mice population. In this respect, cats are an inseparable part of the city’s social fabric.

If you’re an animal lover, it can be distressing to see so many cats living rough, especially when they’re not in the best shape. (Though I must say that every cat I met in Istanbul was plump and rosy.) It helps to know that Istanbul (and all of Turkey) has a no-kill, no capture policy.

34. Brush up on your basic hammam etiquette

Partaking in a traditional Turkish bath is a must-do in Istanbul. The hammams have aeons of history and custom attached to them – there are definite dos and don’ts, just as there are with the sulfur baths in Tbilisi . It helps to know how to handle things once the towels come out, lest you embarrass yourself.

Regarding nakedness, men normally strip down to nothing while women wear undies (single-use pairs are supplied by most bathhouses) then don a pestemal towel, which stays wrapped around you for the duration of your stay.

The Turkish-style skin peel/massage ( kese ) can be quite rough on the skin and muscles. The therapist, known as a natir or tellak , will always be of the same gender. It’s customary to tip them 10-20% after your treatment.

For more Turkish hammam hints, see this guide .

More helpful Istanbul tips to make the most of your visit

Finally, here are a handful of practical tips for planning your itinerary and getting the most out of your time in Istanbul.

35. Organise your Istanbul itinerary by neighbourhood/district

Istanbul has 39 districts, each with its own character and appeal. From the Instagrammable houses and antique shops in Balat, to the trendy cafes in Cihangir, the rambunctious fish market in Uskudar to the Ottoman-era mansions in Arnavutkoy , every corner of the city has something incredible up its sleeve.

A great way to organise your time in Istanbul is by planning your movements around the different neighbourhoods. Each one is quite discreet, so you can knock out a to-do list before moving onto the next.

Some neighbourhoods naturally pair together thanks to geography and transport logistics: Galata and Karakoy, Fener and Balat, Uskudar and Kadikoy, Cihangir and Cukurcuma. See my Istanbul 4-day itinerary for more ideas on how to plan your visit by district.

38. Consider signing up for a food tour

One thing every Istanbul neighbourhood has in common is its never-ending supply of cafes, restaurants and street food vendors. One of the best ways to discover the city – especially if you’re on a tight timeline – is by signing up for a food tour.

I was lucky enough to join Culinary Backstreets’ Born on the Bosphorus tour during my most recent visit to Istanbul. It was one of the highlights of my trip – not only because of the delicious food, but mainly thanks to our incredible guide, Benoit, who over the course of a full day taught me so much about Istanbul’s food and beyond.

The popular Taste of Two Continents tour, with 11 food stops and a Bosphorus ferry crossing, is a good alternative if you’re looking for a half-day experience.

37. Get an early start to beat the crowds

This is particularly important in summer, when the touristy parts of the city get extremely crowded. One of the best ways to avoid long waits at landmarks such as Galata Tower is by waking up early and arriving as doors open.

The metro starts running at 6am – and from Friday evening to Sunday morning public transport operates 24/7 – so there’s no excuse not to get out in the early AM.

38. Invest in a Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass

There is a gamut of different tourist cards and passes available for Istanbul. The 5-day Istanbul Museum Pass or the 2-7 day E-Pass is one of the best investments you can make if you plan on doing the rounds through the city’s best museums and big attractions.

The digital pass gives you skip-the-queue access to 10 of the city’s finest cultural institutions, including Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace and the Harem, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and the Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum.

Available to purchase online before you arrive, it uses a simple QR code system. Just show your pass on your mobile – no need to print anything.

Only buy the pass if it makes sense for you, though: You have to visit multiple attractions for it to pay off, though the other perks – particularly the ability to skip the ticket line – are invaluable in a sense.

Purchase the official Istanbul E-Pass here via Viator .

39. Check prayer times in advance

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are both active mosques, open to visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Except during prayer times, that is.

All of Istanbul’s mosques temporarily close to non-Muslim visitors five times a day for a period of about 90 minutes. For the duration of the Congregational Prayers, no tourists are permitted to enter.

It’s imperative to check prayer times in advance. If you show up while prayers are on, you will be met with a long wait outside. Times are signposted at the bigger mosques or you can check online .

The queue to enter the Hagia Sophia gets very long towards the end of the prayer session. The best time to visit is 30-40 minutes before the mosque is scheduled to close. Don’t try to visit on Fridays when the Jumu’ah prayer takes place – this is one of the busiest times, and it’s always crowded and chaotic.

If your Istanbul visit coincides with Ramadan or another Islamic holiday, prayer times might be different and mosques might be closed for longer periods during the day.

40. Skip the Bosphorus cruise – take advantage of local ferries instead

Some people opt to experience the Bosphorus on board a yacht at sunset with champagne and nibbles. If your budget won’t stretch that far, or you just prefer a local experience, then a ride on the public ferry offers the same ambiance and water views for a fraction of the price.

Hundreds of ferries criss-cross the strait, linking Istanbul’s Asian and European sides. The most scenic ferry routes include Besiktas to Kadikoy, Karakoy to Uskudar, and Karakoy to Kadikoy. Some boats go up the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea, and others head in the opposite direction towards the Princes’ Islands.

Bring a simit bagel to snack on (and to lure seagulls in for photos), or order a tulip-shaped glass of tea from one of the roving vendors on board.

41. Don’t miss the sunset from Galata Bridge

There is only one way to end a day in Istanbul in my opinion, and that’s by watching the sun go down from Galata Bridge. It might be touristy as heck, but there’s a good reason why this is such a popular spot. Views of the glittering water and intertwining boats, mosque minarets silhouetted against a dusky blue sky framed by fishermen casting their lines off the edge of the bridge, are absolute gold.

I recommend finding a spot to stand on the western side of the bridge, above the area where the Karakoy ferry docks. Aim to arrive about an hour before sunset for the best light.

For the perfect Istanbul photo, wait patiently for the garbage truck to come down the street and dump its load in the bins near the ferry terminal – this sends the seagulls into a frenzy, and they fill the skies with their spinning and diving for a good 15 minutes.

42. ‘Authentic’ Whirling Dervish ceremonies still exist – here’s how to find one

Speaking of Istanbul must-dos: A Whirling Dervish show is a bucket-list item for many. I was warned that all Mevlevi Sema ceremonies had become commercialised and ‘spoiled’ by tourists to the point where they just weren’t worth pursuing any more. So I made it my mission to find a real, ‘authentic’ Sema ritual in Istanbul, and I’m happy to say that I eventually did.

Get all the details about the best Whirling Dervish ceremony in Istanbul in this guide .

Where to stay in Istanbul

Budget: Hostel Le Banc (⭐ 9.5) – This popular hostel in Beyoglu is footsteps from the Galata Tower and Sishane metro station. It features air-conditioned rooms (private doubles and mixed/all-female 4 and 10-bed dorms), a shared lounge and a terrace.

Mid-range: 38 Hotel (⭐ 8.6) – Located in Sisli, close to Osmanbey metro station, this hotel has compact, tidy double rooms and suites.

Boutique: Hotel Empress Zoe (⭐ 9.2) – This gorgeous boutique hotel is decorated with heritage flourishes and boasts hammam-like ensuites and private internal terraces. The location in Fatih, minutes from Sultan Ahmet Mosque and the Blue Mosque, is very central yet the hotel still feels secluded.

Luxury: Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (⭐ 9.5) – Located in Beyoglu close to Galata Tower, this boutique-luxury hotel offers high-end suites with private courtyards and terraces. The building, an old Italian Dominican school with remnants of the 13th-century Galata walls inside its courtyard, is dripping with history.

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Istanbul travel resources

• 1-4 day Istanbul itinerary
• Istanbul travel budget
• The ultimate guide to eating out in Istanbul
• Tips for visiting Galata Tower for Istanbul city views
• The best Whirling Dervishes ceremony in Istanbul
• Guide to Arnavutkoy, Istanbul’s most beautiful district
• The best places to visit in Turkey
• Turkey in winter: Where to go plus travel tips

12 Comments

Detailed tips are super helpful, especially about the best time to visit and the ins and outs of public transport.

Thank you. Right now in Turkey with wife and kids. Following your steps and recommendations. Just one thing: booking asked for a price but the hotel converted the price to Liras and charged me much more for exactly the same booking and service! Thank you again,

I love your travel blog! Your vivid descriptions and stunning photographs make me feel like I’m right there with you. It’s inspiring to see someone embracing adventure and exploring new cultures. Keep the travel stories coming!

Excellent article and links for further information. I am planning a trip to Turkey in September with my wife and your articles a great start and support. Great job! Alejandro

This is very, very helpful. Thank you so much.

Early in your article you indicated that Booking.com does not work in Turkey, yet in the section, entitled “Turkey Essentials”, you direct us to that site for Hotels. Maybe I am missing something, but that appears to be contradictory. I found the article very helpful…..Thanks for the information.

Hi JB – I still recommend using Booking, only you have to reserve from outside of Turkey ie. before you arrive.

Thanks so much, this was really helpful. Lots of good to know stuff that I didn’t find mentioned elsewhere

it was very helpful thank you

Ha, I made the same mistake again and didn’t read through your info thoroughly. In Georgia, I paid more than I needed to for a SIM at the airport and this time, I could have saved a few lira on a bank withdrawal in Istanbul.

Already appreciating the smiles and kindness in Istanbul very much.

Love your work Emily.

Perhaps it’s different for Australian passport holders, but I found the VOA to be a better deal than the eVisa for Americans. Our eVisas were fast and easy to get, but cost $50 plus a 2 dollar service fee. We got them before traveling to Turkey last year, but went twice to make them a better value. This past month we got VOA (no lines) and paid 25 euros each. Both are valid for 6 months. Plus you get a little visa stamp in your passport!

Thanks Owen for the info – you’re right, VOA is more affordable for US passport holders, but not for us Aussies unfortunately! I would have loved a visa stamp. I’ll update that now. Cheers!

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Orhan Pamuk’s Istanbul was once the imperial city of Byzantium. Today the sprawling modern metropolis is at once daunting in its size and awe-inspiring in its richness. Istanbul figures as one of the European gateways to the East, at the legendary Bosphorus Straits. As the third largest city in the world by population, it’s perhaps no surprise that Istanbul is alive with various religious and cultural influences. These manifest right across the board in its array of historical heritage sites, from the iconic domes and minarets of the Hagia Sophia to the awesome Byzantine ruins of the late Christian Romans. But it’s not all history in Istanbul, and today the cascade of bohemian bars and quirky districts that pepper its metropolitan patchwork have earned it the epithet of ‘World’s Hippest City’; a place of brooding artists, unbridled youthful energy and exhilarating alternative charm. Visitors can expect their Istanbul tour guide to exhibit both parts ancient and modern; leaving one enthralled at Istanbul’s reputation as Turkey’s economic, cultural and historical heart.

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Augusta, Antonina, Nova Roma, Byzantion, Byzantium, Constantinople and finally Istanbul…  These exciting names reminds the mysterious and enchanting past of the city. Istanbul can be considered as the combination of the old and modern city, as well as Islamic and Mediterranean mixture of cultures in a captivating atmosphere. There are only few cities in the world that can be so delightful to experience and enjoy as Istanbul.

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Walk into the city of Constantine who built up a new capital for his empire. Through the centuries of its history, Istanbul has been the capital of two world empires. Along with our local guide, you will visit the highlights of Istanbul and learn about the history, culture, art, and local life of the city. Not only visit the museums but also enjoy the daily life like a local. Istanbul tour is the number one activity you should join to learn and have an experience with locals. Daily Istanbul tours cover mostly the same sites in the Historical Peninsula of Istanbul city however some alternative Istanbul tours are always available by our company.

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Must-see attractions in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Sultanahmet

Right in the heart of İstanbul’s historic center, this sacred Byzantine building remains an important symbol of power.

Topkapı Palace

Topkapı is the subject of more colourful stories than most of the world's museums put together. Libidinous sultans, ambitious courtiers, beautiful…

Kariye Mosque

İstanbul has more than its fair share of Byzantine monuments, but few are as drop-dead gorgeous as this mosaic- and fresco-laden church. Nestled in the…

Süleymaniye Mosque

The Süleymaniye crowns one of İstanbul's seven hills and dominates the Golden Horn, providing a landmark for the entire city. Though it's not the largest…

Basilica Cistern

This subterranean structure was commissioned by Emperor Justinian and built in 532. The largest surviving Byzantine cistern in İstanbul, it was…

Blue Mosque

İstanbul's most photogenic building was the grand project of Sultan Ahmet I (r 1603–17), whose tomb is located on the north side of the site facing…

Grand Bazaar

The colourful and chaotic Grand Bazaar is the heart of İstanbul's Old City and has been so for centuries. Starting as a small vaulted bedesten (warehouse)…

Pera Museum

There's plenty to see at this impressive museum, but its major draw is undoubtedly the 2nd-floor exhibition of paintings featuring Turkish Orientalist…

İstanbul Archaeology Museums

The city's foremost archaeological museum is housed in three buildings close to Topkapı Palace. There are many highlights, but the sarcophagi from the…

Dolmabahçe Palace

The Bosphorus Suburbs

These days it’s fashionable for architects and critics influenced by the less-is-more aesthetic of Bauhaus masters to sneer at buildings such as…

Kadıköy Produce Market

An aromatic, colourful and alluring showcase of the best fresh produce in the city, the Kadıköy Pazarı is foodie central for locals and is becoming an…

Museum of Innocence

The painstaking attention to detail in this fascinating museum/piece of conceptual art will certainly provide every amateur psychologist with a theory or…

Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts

This Ottoman palace was built in 1524 for İbrahim Paşa, childhood friend, brother-in-law and grand vizier of Süleyman the Magnificent. It now houses a…

Rahmi M Koç Museum

This splendid museum is dedicated to the history of transport, industry and communications in Turkey. Founded by the head of the Koç industrial group, one…

Spice Bazaar

Vividly coloured spices are displayed alongside jewel-like lokum (Turkish delight) at this Ottoman-era marketplace, providing eye candy for the thousands…

İstanbul Modern

This lavishly funded and innovative museum has an extensive collection of Turkish art and also stages a constantly changing and uniformly excellent…

İstiklal Caddesi

Once called the Grand Rue de Pera but renamed İstiklal (Independence) in the early years of the Republic, Beyoğlu's premier boulevard is a perfect…

Beylerbeyi Palace

This opulently furnished 1865 building was designed by Sarkis Balyan, brother of Nikoğos (architect of Dolmabahçe Palace). It delighted both Sultan Abdül…

The Byzantine emperors loved nothing more than an afternoon at the chariot races, and this rectangular arena alongside Sultanahmet Park was their venue of…

Patriarchal Church of St George

Dating from 1836, this church is part of the Greek Patriarchate compound. Inside the church are artefacts including Byzantine mosaics, religious relics…

Aya Sofya Tombs

Part of the Aya Sofya complex but entered via Babıhümayun Caddesi, these tombs are the final resting places of five 16th- and 17th-century sultans –…

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

This important complex marks the supposed burial place of Ebu Eyüp el-Ensari, a friend of the Prophet who fell in battle outside the walls of…

Rüstem Paşa Mosque

Nestled in the middle of the busy Tahtakale shopping district, this diminutive mosque is a gem. Dating from 1560, it was designed by Sinan for Rüstem Paşa…

Yavuz Sultan Selim Mosque

The sultan to whom this mosque was dedicated (Süleyman the Magnificent's father, Selim I, known as 'the Grim') is famous for having killed two of his…

Little Aya Sofya

Justinian and his wife Theodora built this little church sometime between 527 and 536, just before Justinian built Aya Sofya. You can still see their…

Gülhane Park

Gülhane Park was once part of the grounds of Topkapı Palace, accessible only to the royal court. These days crowds of locals come here to picnic under the…

Museum of Great Palace Mosaics

When archaeologists from the University of Ankara and Scotland's University of St Andrews excavated around the nearby Arasta Bazaar in the 1930s and 1950s…

Mihrimah Sultan Mosque

The great Sinan put his stamp on the entire city and this mosque, constructed in the 1560s next to the Edirnekapı section of the historic land walls, is…

Museum of Turkish Jews

Housed in a building attached to the Neve Shalom synagogue near the Galata Tower, this museum was established in 2001 to commemorate the 500th anniversary…

Spiral Column

Coming up out of a hole in the ground, this strange column was once much taller and was topped by three serpents' heads. Originally cast to commemorate a…

Hünkâr Kasrı

Built over a grand archway attached to the New Mosque, this small kasrı (pavilion) or mahfili (loge) dates from the same period and functioned as a…

Opened to great fanfare in September 2019, the new home of the Koç Foundation's collection of contemporary art – one of the most impressive in Turkey –…

Obelisk of Theodosius

In the centre of the Hippodrome, this immaculately preserved pink granite obelisk was carved in Egypt during the reign of Thutmose III (r 1549–1503 BC)…

Kaiser Wilhelm's Fountain

Near the northern end of the Hippodrome, this little gazebo with beautiful stonework was presented to the sultan and his people as a token of friendship…

Arasta Bazaar

This historic arcade of shops was once part of the külliye (mosque complex) of the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii). Mosques built by the great and…

Rough-Stone Obelisk

After sacking Aya Sofya in 1204, the soldiers of the Fourth Crusade tore all the plates from this obelisk, at the Hippodrome's southern end, in the…

The only remaining built section of the Hippodrome hints at how monumental the arena was. The level of galleries that once topped this section was damaged…

Galata Bridge

To experience İstanbul at its most magical, walk across the Galata Bridge at sunset. At this time, the historic Galata Tower is surrounded by shrieking…

Rumeli Hisarı

Prior to construction of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge in the 1980s, this massive fortress was the major landmark on this part of the Bosphorus. Built by…

Atik Valide Mosque

This is one of the two great İstanbul mosque complexes designed by Mimar Sinan. Though not as spectacular as the Süleymaniye, it was designed to a similar…

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25 Best Things to Do in Istanbul

From historic squares to the Grand Bazaar, there's much to do in the Turkish metropolis.

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Surely there has never been a dull moment in Istanbul . An imperial capital for 1,700 years, the metropolis has long stood as a gateway between the East and West, and that has made it a hub for crossing cultures, religions, ideologies, and cuisine. And the legacy of the city — formerly Constantinople — has withstood the test of time. "It is a city with an incredible depth of culture, and history like no other," says Liam Dunch, product manager of Abercrombie & Kent, Europe. "Discovery through the stratification and the layers will be constant and unending. Observing the way that people of the city blend together the notions of the East and those of the West is an incredible experience."

Mina Agnos, president of Travelive and a Travel and Leisure A-List Advisor , agrees that the bustling city is a quintessential destination for anyone aiming to understand Turkey. "Every visit to Turkey either starts or ends with Istanbul," she adds. "It is a uniquely diverse city with so many unforgettable sites to discover." Read on to learn what these experts name as the best things to do in Istanbul.

Related : Travel + Leisure Readers' 3 Favorite Hotels in Istanbul of 2023

Experience Taksim Square.

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Taksim Square is in the heart of modern Istanbul, perched at the end of the famous pedestrian street Istiklal Caddesi. Past meets present here; at one end you have the grand Taksim Mosque, and at the other is the modern Ataturk Cultural Center . This is where the hum of Istanbul’s activity vibrates at its highest level.

Stroll down Istiklal Caddesi.

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Speaking of Istiklal Caddesi, this pedestrian-only walking street is the place to soak in the vibe of Istanbul. It is one of the most famous thoroughfares in the country today and is flanked by both Ottoman-era buildings and Art Nouveau and Art Deco structures. The buildings house everything from boutiques and art galleries to cafes, theaters, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Sample Turkish kebab.

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Turkish cuisine includes a dizzying array of grilled meats, seafood, salads, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices, rich desserts, coffee, and tea. When visiting Istanbul, you will want to try as many of the above as possible, but perhaps Turkish kebab especially. Made of marinated lamb or beef, the kebab is cooked on skewers and served alongside vegetables or wrapped up in lavash bread.

Visit the Galata Tower.

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Rising from the historic streets of Istanbul's Beyoglu district, Galata Tower was originally constructed as a watchtower 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.

Shop and party in Beyoglu.

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"The European side of Istanbul is home to the main historic district," says Agnos. "This side of the city is considered more 'Western' and it includes nightlife spots and more cosmopolitan districts such as Beyoglu and Karakoy. Beyoglu is famous for its vibrant atmosphere; this area offers wonderful stops for shopping, dining, and nightlife." It's likely you will spend a lot of time in Beyoglu should you travel to Istanbul. 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.

Grab a drink at Grand Hotel de Londres.

A grande dame of Istanbul, Grand Hotel de Londres is a beautifully preserved building from the 1800s. It's all about opulence here, from the rich color palette and glittering chandeliers to plush wall-to-wall carpeting. The terrace bar is a favorite hangout for tourists and locals; there's often live music here, plus beautiful sunset views over the Golden Horn. "This is a good suggestion for travelers that have been to Istanbul," says Agnos. "It's an off-the-beaten-path suggestion for visitors to really feel the vibe of the city."

Explore Karakoy.

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"Karakoy, the modern name for the old Galata, is part of the Beyoglu district," says Agnos. "It is known as one of the hippest and oldest neighborhoods in Istanbul, home to arty cafes, local boutiques, cocktail bars open late into the night, and art galleries. There is a growing local fashion and art scene in this area."

Marvel at the Blue Mosque.

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One of the most recognizable landmarks in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is a beacon in the city skyline. It is known for its gorgeous domes and six soaring minaret towers. The mosque dates back to the 17th century and is still a functioning mosque today.

Visit Hagia Sophia.

Not far from the Blue Mosque is the equally impressive Hagia Sophia. Originally built as a church where rulers of the empire were crowned, it was later converted to a mosque. Today it serves as a museum dedicated to Turkey, and it remains one of the most important monuments for both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

Roam the Hippodrome.

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Back when Istanbul was the imperial capital of Constantinople, it was known for its horse and chariot racing, and the Hippodrome was where these exciting, adrenaline-pumping races took place. While the original venue 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.

Explore the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum.

The Turkish and Islamic Art Museum is a revolutionary museum for Turkey, being the first in the country to showcase Turkish and Islamic artwork together. Opened in 1914, it was the last museum to open during the Ottoman Empire period. The museum has 1,700 pieces of art, and its carpet collection is among the most impressive in the world.

Journey underground at the Basilica Cistern.

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Istanbul's skyline soars with some of the world's most beautiful and historic monuments, and the beauty continues underneath the pavement, too, thanks to masterpieces of engineering and infrastructure. The primary water reservoir for Constantinople, the Basilica Cistern is cathedral-esque and a sight to see. Built during the 4th century, it is supported by 336 columns and can hold up to 17.5 million gallons of water.

Visit Topkapi Palace.

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This 15th-century palace was once the administrative headquarters for the Ottoman Empire. Now a museum, the venue is full of treasures, from walls festooned with gorgeous paintings to rooms that give way to sumptuous courtyards — you can even explore the opulent former harem. It's one of the best places in Istanbul to learn about the former grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.

Check out the Süleymaniye Mosque.

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Istanbul is not short on impressive mosques, and Süleymaniye Mosque is certainly one of its most beautiful. Considered the masterpiece of architect Mimar Sinan, the mosque was built in the 16th century to honor Sultan Süleyman, the longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman Empire. The central dome stands at a staggering 154 feet tall and the interior is beautifully decorated with colors of gold, green, red, and blue.

Ferry to Istanbul’s Asian side.

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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 in order to best understand its history. There are more than 20 ferry routes across the Bosphorus, and the crossing takes only 15 minutes.

Admire Beylerbeyi Palace.

Across the Bosphorus, Beylerbeyi 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 gorgeous example of interior design and architecture, with nods to both Ottoman and Neo-Baroque styles. The stunning gardens that surround the palace are equally impressive.

Shop around Kadikoy Market.

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Kadikoy Market is part of a buzzy bazaar on Istanbul's Asian side. Overlooking the Sea of Marmara, the market is a historic one, home to more than 4,000 vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to carpets, pottery, textiles, and paintings. It is also one of the best spots in the city to sample Turkish street food and Turkish delights, a jelly candy made with rosewater.

Walk the Kuzguncuk neighborhood.

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Sandwiched between Uskudar and Beylerbeyi, Kuzguncuk is one of the most lively and vibrant neighborhoods in Istanbul's Asian side, and it has always been a melting pot of religions and cultures. You'll see mosques, churches, and synagogues here, plus the neighborhood's funky mishmash of coffee shops, restaurants, tree-lined cobblestone streets, and brightly colored historic homes.

Bargain at the Grand Bazaar.

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Prepare to feast your eyes on the granddaddy of all covered markets. One of the world's oldest and largest venues of its kind, the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul contains a maze of streets and thousands of shops. Vendors sell everything you could possibly think of, so if you're a professional at haggling, this will be like your Super Bowl.

Get a serious scrubbing at Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı.

Wellness has been "on trend" in Turkey for hundreds of years, and visitors can step back into the old ways of wellness with a visit to the iconic Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı. The building dates back to the 16th century and serves as one of the top spots in the city for a classic hamam ritual today. Remember to book accordingly — the hamam is open to women in the morning and men in the afternoon.

Visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pege.

This early Byzantine monastery has a history of miracles and legends tied to it, thanks to a spring that is believed to have magical powers. It's also set on a hilltop, making it a great place to take in city views.

Connect with the local community.

If you like to step into the shoes of a local when you travel, you can do that in Turkey. Agnos recommends visiting the island village of Bozcaada in August to harvest and sell tomatoes with the local community. Or, if you're in Bodrum, join the olive harvest that occurs between September 15 and December 25.

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 early June to the end of September, public beaches on the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara are open." Dunch also recommends enjoying open-air concerts in the summer, or visiting Belgrad Forest, north of the city. "Around Prince's Island," he adds, "sailing and water sports are popular."

Discover your favorite ‘esnaf lokantası’.

Istanbul has some of the top restaurants in Europe, but local, homestyle street food cafes are where the city really shows its heart. "I recommend eating at a craftsmen's eatery," said Dunch. "They are referred to as 'esnaf lokantası,' frequented by shopkeepers and craftsmen in commercially vibrant areas, such as the markets, and they offer underrated and extremely tasty home-style cooking. This is as close as a visitor can get to the heart of Turkish cuisine."

Be entertained at Bomontiada.

The impressive Bomontiada complex is a center for the arts. There's the Ara Güler Museum, restaurants, and a calendar of outdoor concerts and movie screenings, making this the place to go for all forms of entertainment. It also happens to be housed within the once-abandoned Bomonti beer factory, and it was integral to helping redefine this formerly desolate part of the city.

Related Articles

50 Things to do while Travelling in Istanbul, Turkey: The Ultimate Istanbul Travel Guide!

So you’re travelling to Istanbul and you have no idea where to begin. That’s understandable, the city is massive (it spans two continents!) and it has so much to offer in terms of mosques, markets, museums and foreign culinary delights!

50 Things to do in Istanbul, Turkey

(1) Visit the Spice Bazaar. 

This is the second largest covered market after the Grand Bazaar.

Here you’ll be able to pick up spices, nuts, dried fruit, Turkish coffee, loose leaf tea, and even Turkish delight!

(2) Go to a whirling dervish show.

Turkey is home to the Mevlevi Order of Sufi whirling dervishes.

The dervishes spin themselves into a trance-like state that brings them closer to God, and it’s a unique religious ceremony to witness. 

You can read more about my experience here and book a whirling dervish experience here .

(3) Listen to the call of prayer.

The most beautiful call of prayer I listened to took place between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia (which although is no longer a mosque, still keeps a prayer room).

One muezzin would sing out part of the prayer and then the second muezzin would respond from the other minaret.

It was a magical thing to experience , so if you find yourself in the area during prayer time, I suggest you grab a seat at one of the park benches and just listen.

(4) Eat a kumpir.

A kumpir is a loaded baked potato. The server will mix the potato with cheese and butter until it’s light and fluffy, and then you can choose from an assortment of toppings including olives, hot dogs, pickles, corn, peas, bulgur and more. It’s the perfect snack to go.

(5) Get naked at a hammam. 

If you’re ready to shed your inhibitions, then head over to the Turkish bath.

For the full experience you’ll want to opt in for the body scrub and massage. Don’t worry, the hamam is segregated into male and female only areas.

(6) Ride the red street car.

One way to see Istiklal Avenue without having to weave your way through the crowds is to ride the streetcar from one end of the strip to another.

The streetcar has a decidedly vintage feel and it makes for a pleasant journey through Istanbul’s shopping hub.

(7) Walk across Galata Bridge. 

Yes, you could very well ride the light rail across, but if you choose to walk, you’ll get to see all the locals fishing from the bridge, the vendors selling sesame covered pretzels, and the boats carrying passengers down the Bosphorus.

(8) Eat a sesame seed covered pretzel. 

You can pick up one of these tasty pretzels at any bakery in town, but I suggest you grab one from the little red stands along Istiklal Avenue. It just adds to the experience.

(9) Take a boat tour down the Bosphorus. 

If you only have a few brief days in the city and you know you won’t be able to cover all of the main attractions, taking a cruise down the Bosphorus is a great way to get a glimpse of Istanbul’s main points of interest.

You’ll ride past Dolmabahçe Palace, the Rumeli Ruins, the Maiden’s Tower, and many mosques, mansions, and gardens along the way.

(10) Order Turkish chicken breast pudding. 

There is nothing appetizing about the thought of this dish.

Chicken for dessert? Well…yes, but before you protest, let me tell you that you can’t actually taste the chicken. 

Tavuk Göğsü , as the dish is known, is prepared by boiling chicken breast in water and then shredding the meat into small fibrous pieces.

The meat is then boiled again, this time with milk, sugar, vanilla, cornstarch and rice flour.

The end result is a sweet pudding which you can top off with a sprinkling of cinnamon.

(11) Drink Turkish tea.  

If you come to Istanbul you have to drink tea out of a tulip-shaped glass.

Turkish tea is prepared in a rather unique way using a teapot that has two level: one to boil the water, and the other to brew the tea.

You then pour the tea into the glass and dilute it with the hot water so that it’s made to your taste.

(12) Eat börek.

Börek is a traditional Turkish pastry made of flaky dough.

It can be stuffed with feta cheese or minced meat as a savoury treat, or if you prefer something sweeter, you can eat it plain with a little bit of icing sugar sprinkled overtop.

You can dive deeper into Turkish cuisine with this 3-hour foodie tour .

(13) Marvel at Hagia Sophia.

This architectural wonder has a long history which has seen it go from Eastern Orthodox cathedral, to Roman Cathedral, back to Eastern Orthodox cathedral, to mosque, and now it’s a museum.

The exterior may not seem too impressive, but once you’re inside and you catch a glimpse of the heavenly domes and ancient mosaics, you will be in awe.

With the 1-hour guided tour you can learn more about the history and skip the line to get in !

(14) Visit Little Hagia Sophia.

The Church of the Saints Sergius and Bacchus, also known as Little Hagia Sophia, is a former Eastern Orthodox church.

It is believed that this church was built as an architectural experiment by the same architects who would go on to build Hagia Sophia shortly after.

Better test things out on a smaller scale before committing to the main project, right?

(15) Go underground at the Basilica Cistern.

The Basilica Cistern is the largest of the ancient underground water cisterns found across Istanbul.

Most of the columns in the cistern appear to have been recycled from the ruins of other buildings, and among them you’ll find two carvings of Medusa’s head used as column bases, as well as a column with tear shaped engravings believed to have the power to make your wishes come true.

(16) Sample Turkish delight. 

Also known as  lokum  to locals, Turkish delight is a popular gummy treat.

The  best place to sample Turkish delight  is at Hafiz Mustafa, where you can choose from flavours that include rose, cinnamon, mint, strawberry, lemon, orange, kiwi, pomegranate and apple.

Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

(17) Indulge your sweet tooth with baklava.

The Turks really know what they are doing when it comes to sweets.

Baklava is made with layers of phyllo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.

Forget the scones and clotted cream; this is what you need at tea time !

(18) Drink a glass of Ayran. 

This is one of those drinks that you either love or hate. Ayran is considered the national drink in Turkey and it is a cold yogurt beverage mixed with salt.

It’s especially popular during the summer months.

(19) Test your bargaining skills at the Grand Bazaar.

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is a place for serious shoppers. With more than 3,000 shops and covering an estimated 61 streets, this place is dizzying yet so worth a visit.

You’ll notice that some streets specialize in certain goods with those shops selling nothing but leather, silverware, carpets, ceramics or spices.

There will be lots of glittery things to catch your eye, so you may want to come prepared to spend.

(20) Smoke hookah. 

Argilah, nargile, sheesha, hubbly bubbly – whatever you call it, there is an ample supply of hookah bars in Istanbul where you can lounge around while you smoke the water pipe and sip on a class of tea or coffee.

(21) Eat a doner. 

Doner is a Turkish dish made with meat cooked on a spinning vertical rotisserie.

The meat can be lamb, beef, or chicken, and it’s served in a pita with vegetables and a few toppings.

It’s a tasty and affordable lunch which you can find in any part of the city.

(22) Enjoy the view from Galata Tower. 

Located in Beyoğlu, this tower looks like it would be better suited as Rapunzel’s home in a fairy tale.

There is something magical about the pointed cylindrical roof, and the views from the outer balcony are breathtaking.

(23) Buy yourself a glass lamp. 

The colourful glass lamps you’ll see hanging in almost every establishment in the city make a great souvenir to take back home.

If you are looking for a bargain on these, I suggest you try purchasing them outside the Grand Bazaar and away from the main touristy areas; you’d be surprised at how drastically the prices drop.

A medium sized lamp should run you $15-20 USD.

(24) Dine with the best view of Istanbul. 

If you want a restaurant with a great view that won’t break your wallet, I recommend  Hamdi Restorant .

The 180-degree views showcase the Süleymaniye Mosque, Rüstempaşa Mosque, Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus.

Not only that, but they make a delicious köfte and roasted eggplant.

(25) Go to a belly-dancing show. 

If you’re after a performance with more of an entertainment factor, then you’re in luck because Hodjapasha Dance Theatre (the same venue that puts of the Whirling Dervish performance), also has folkloric and belly-dancing performances.

You can also watch a belly-dancing and folk show as you cruise down the Bosphorus. Prepare to be whisked back into 1001 Arabian Nights .

(26) Visit Istanbul Archaeological Museums. 

The Istanbul Archaeological Museums actually consists of 3 different museums which are located near Topkapi Palace.

These are the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient, and the Museum of Islamic Art.

If you enjoy getting up close with history, you’ll enjoy a visit here.

(27) Pet the stray cats. 

Istanbul is a city were cats reign supreme . The strays are well taken care of by locals who leave out food, water, and even pillows for these cats to sleep on.

(28) Visit the Chora Church.

The Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora may not be the largest of the Byzantine churches, but it’s certainly known for being one of the most beautiful.

The highlight are the various mosaic panels which recreate biblical scenes and still dazzle centuries later.

(29) See the Valens Aqueducts.

When the Romans passed through Istanbul, they began construction of a water system that would supply the city’s growing needs for fresh water.

The water that travelled down these aqueducts was stored in open reservoirs and underground cisterns across the city.

Today, the surviving section of the Valens Aqueduct is 921 metres long.

(30) Visit Beylerbeyi Palace. 

This palace, whose name means Lord of Lords, is situated on the Asian side of Istanbul.

The palace was built along the banks of the Bosphorus and it was used as the summer residence by the Ottomans.

(31) Have a home-cooked dinner with a local family.

This can be a fun way to get to know the local culture and try new dishes .

If you can’t get enough of the köfte , lahmacun , and pide , then consider some home-cooking and Turkish hospitality . 

(32) Feel like a giant at Miniatürk. 

This rather unique miniature park is home to small-scale recreations of structures found in Istanbul, Anatolia, and other Ottoman territories that today lie outside of Turkish borders.

(33) Have Sütlaç for dessert.

This is the Turkish version of rice pudding. It is said that the recipe made in Topkapi Palace contained rose water.

You can also get this dish with chopped walnuts and raisins, which I think adds a nice flavour.

(34) Take a day trip to the Princes’ Islands.

The Princes’ Islands is a cluster of 9 islands which lie off the Asian shores of Istanbul.

The islands get this name because during the Byzantine and early Ottoman period, members of dynasties who fell out of favour were often sent to exile there.

Today it is a popular place for families and couples to visit on the weekends , and the only form of transportation is horse and cart – very romantic.

(35) Visit the Blue Mosque.

Also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Blue Mosque’s two most striking features are its 6 minarets and blue domed exterior.

You’ll want to dress modestly and if you’re a woman you’ll need to wear a scarf over your head as this is still a functioning mosque.

(36) Eat Turkish pizza.

Lahmacun is considered to be the Turkish equivalent of pizza . This thin dough is topped with minced meat, vegetables and herbs.

(37) Go to the Maiden’s Tower.

There is much debate about the story behind this tower which sits on a small islet located at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus.

Local tale says that the tower was built by a wealthy man who was trying to protect his daughter from a prophecy spoken by an oracle – a prophecy foretelling the death of the man’s daughter by a snake bite.

To prevent these words from coming true, the father built a tower to keep his daughter safe in the water.

Of course, a snake would eventually find it’s way to the tower when the father came to visit with a basket full of fruit.

(38) Stroll along Emirgan Park.

This is one of the largest public parks in Istanbul and it is located along the banks of the Bosphorus.

Emirgan Park also plays host to the annual Tulip Festival, so you’ll want to check that out if you are in town in the spring.

(39) Hop over to the Asian continent.

Most visitors tend to stick to the European side, but if you venture over to the Asian side via ferry, you’ll find that the city has more of a local feel.

The pace of life seems a bit slower and there are hardly any tourists around.

(40) Eat Turkish ice cream. 

Turkish ice cream is called  dondurma  which literally means freezing.

What makes Turkish ice cream different from other types of ice cream is that it has a rather sticky texture and it is a bit more resistant to melting.

Don’t believe me? Take a bite and try not to get the stringy ice cream all over your face.

(41) Catch a football match. 

Istanbul has an extensive list of football clubs, so if you’re in town during the football season, you can catch a live game of footy.

(42) Ride the funicular.

If you need to give your legs a little rest, then riding the funicular is the easiest way to deal with Istanbul’s hills.

The Tünel line is the oldest underground metro line in continental Europe, and the second oldest in the world after London .

(43) Drink pomegranate juice.

Stop at one of the many street stands and order yourself a cup of freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.

It’s both tart and sweet, and the antioxidants offer great health benefits.

(44) Visit the Süleymaniye Mosque.

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia may be better known, but the Süleymaniye Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul. For that it is worth the visit .

(45) Race around the Hippodrome. 

Today a public square, the Hippodrome of Constantinople was a place for horse racing and chariot racing.

During the Byzantine empire, this place would have been the beating heart of social activity.

(46) Go to the Ortaköy Mosque. 

This mosque stands along the waterfront of Ortaköy pier square. While it is much smaller than many of the mosques in the city, Ortaköy Mosque is unique in the sense that it is a perfect example of Baroque architecture.

(47) Get a taste of royal life at Topkapi Palace.

Topkapi Palace is the largest royal residence in Istanbul and it served as the main residence to the Ottoman Sultans for almost 400 years.

The grounds are massive, but perhaps the most impressive part of it all are the Harem Apartments – a place with more than 400 rooms for the Sultan’s many concubines, wives, children, and extended family members.

You can get a skip the line ticket for Topkapi Palace here.

(48) Pretend you’re a sultan at Dolmabahçe Palace.

This palace was home to 6 different sultans towards the end of the Ottoman period.

While in the past the Sultan and his family had lived in Topkapi Palace, times were changing and the Ottoman’s felt Topkapi was lacking the luxury and style of the new era.

Naturally, a new palace had to be built. And what’s a new palace without the world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier? (Courtesy of Queen Victoria.)

You can book a 1-hour guided tour of the palace here.

(49) Walk along the Walls of Constantinople.

When Constantinople became the new capital of the Roman Empire, defensive walls were erected to fortify the city.

The 7-kilometre walk along the remaining portions of the wall offers a window into the past.

(50) Get lost and see what surprises the city throws your way.

Istanbul is a great city to get lost in. So if you’re feeling rather adventurous , why not leave the guidebook behind and just head out on foot to see what you can discover for yourself.

Where to stay in Istanbul

When it comes to finding accommodations in Istanbul, there’s no shortage of options. The hard part is deciding in which of the many neighbourhoods you want to stay ! Here are some different options for you to consider:

Sultanahmet

If you want to be in the heart of the Old City , then Sultanahmet is an excellent choice. You’ll be within walking distance to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Underground Cistern, the Grand Bazaar, and countless other attractions.

The only downside to this neighbourhood is that it can be a little bit pricey – you are paying for the location.

• Hotel Sultania  
• Four Seasons At Sultanahmet
• Sura Hagia Sophia
• Hotel Niles
• Ottoman Hotel Imperial
• Hotel Seraglio
• Cheers Hostel
• Bahaus Hostel
• Antique Hostel

What I like about this neighbourhood is that it has a local feel while still catering to visitors with shops , restaurants, and bars.

If you want to be in a very lively area, then stick close to Istiklal Avenue, and if you’re looking for a quieter area, you’ll also find it here – there are plenty of apartment rentals and small boutique hotels in the back streets.

Beyoglu has great transportation options and you can be in the Old City in a matter of 20-30 minutes.

Luxury: 

• Pera Palace Hotel Jumeirah  
• InterContinental Istanbul  
• CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel

Mid-range: 

• Corinne Boutique Hotel  
• Peradays  
• Sanat Hotel Pera
• Stay Inn Taksim  
• World House Istanbul

This neighbourhood is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and it feels very local.

I found it to be a lot more relaxed than the European side, and the prices were also much lower.

Getting to the Old City from here is fairly easy as it’s just a matter of hopping on a ferry, but do keep in mind it’ll take you longer to reach the main attractions.

• Double Tree by Hilton
• Bossuite Hotel Kadikoy
• Istanbul Life Hotel  
• My Dora Hotel

Budget: 

• Hush Hostel Lounge Istanbul  
• Hostel Bahane
• Bristol Hostel

Have you been to Istanbul? What’s your favourite thing about the city?

120 Comments

I knew the (stray) cats were special in Istanbul! I was there just a couple of weeks ago and absolutely love it! http://sandierpastures.com/travel/europe/memories-of-istanbul.html

I can’t think of a better city for cat lovers 😉

Thank you for the information, Audrey. Very helpful!! I’m going to Turkey after a week and as a, woman traveling by myself, didn’t know what to do and what you suggested is very directive…. so is it safe to explore the city by myself? Will there be tour guide who can show around? Please kindly advise?

U were absolutely right about the Turkish Ice cream in fact I learnt that its made to be sticky .It is known as the stretchy ice cream which u can actually STRETCH !! this is due to some ingredients the Turkish use it is a 500 year old technique and is currently taking the world by storm .Its already hit UK and America ! Its nice to know it originated from Turkey.

SOLD! There were plans to go with Turkish-German friends to Istanbul, but that’ll have to wait. This post isn’t “helping” with that all important gravitational pull: to know, to see, to taste, to smell, to experience the “hot chaotic mess” that is Istanbul. Thanks for your post, Audrey!

Glad you enjoyed the post, Henry. Hopefully you’re able to reschedule the trip soon. It really is a great city to be in.

awesome, that is a lot of info to take in. bookmarked for that date who knows when in the future that i make it to turkey! 🙂

I hope you get to visit soon! There is so much to do there, you’ll need at least one week to cover the main sights. 🙂

This is a truly amazing and incredibly tempting list of opportunities to explore this incredible city! You have the gamut and offer something to delight everyone – and every sense!

Istanbul is one of most interesting, exotic, beautiful cities in the world. Add to that great Turkish food and the friendliest people…what more can you ask for? BTW the “pretzel with a sesame seeds” is called a simit. You can buy them from bakeries or stands, but you will also see boys carrying them on a wooden board on their heads, especially by the Galata Bridge…buy one from them!

This is a great list thanks Audrey! I will be heading to Turkey for the first time in a couple months so this will definitely come in handy.

Shaun http://www.thislifeintrips.com

Audrey! So many beautiful pictures! I am in love 🙂 🙂

I am so excited to finally be traveling to Istanbul this summer (and Europe in general as I’ve never been). This list will totally come in handy as I begin planning my trip!

I love how you compared the Galata Tower to Rapunzel’s home! My favourite part of Istanbul was Topkapi Palace, and second comes the Asian side with its local life. I wouldn’t mind going back to Istanbul and have more of it. It’s a city that has so much to offer!

Great list! You guys really did a lot. If I were to add anything it would be to learn to swing the tespe (prayer beads) Love the Kumpir, love it!! I also love the sloppy joes. Not sure what they’re called but they’re the best drunk food int he world 🙂

a kumpir sounds amazing

Great list Audrey! One of the best posts I’ve read from Istanbul.

What a comprehensive list! I too love your photos, especially the more intimate captures of life. I also thoroughly enjoy the suggestion to pet stray cats. Now I’m craving Turkish tea, a doner, and some hookah haha!

I love wandering around the spice markets when I’m anywhere in Turkey – the smells are gorgeous. As probably one of the biggest potato fans, I’m intrigued about this kumpir – hot, fluffy AND topped with olives, hot dogs, pickles, corn, peas, bulgur and more?! I need to get my hands on it.

Great list! The Blue Mosque looks amazing, much better than I though and seen it on TV. I would love to explore it one day. I love the idea of indulging myself in traditional Turkish börek :).

Wow. This is such a great list! I can’t believe I still haven’t been here.

Never been to Istanbul, but would love go! It’s an interesting destination with lots of unique things to experience. I’m looking forward to trying its different cuisines. 🙂

very concise posting. Although been there twice you realise you have not seen anything!!!

The best part: There’s plenty more to do in Istanbul!

Great list Audrey! Will definitely keep this in mind when I finally get myself to Istanbul. 🙂

We LOVED Istanbul and did a lot of the things on your list. We were lucky too because our really good friend is Turkish and he showed us the city!

I’ve never been to Istanbul but you really made me want to go NOW. There are plenty of things on your list that I’d happily do and experience. Thanks for the tips 😉

After reading this post, I think Istanbul is worth a visit. Your tips are really helpful in planning the trip.

Wow! I visited Istanbul earlier on this year and I thought I managed to cram a lot in! The only thing I would add is to watch some live Turkish folk music on a Sunday night at Munzur bar not far from Taksim Square. We were the only westerners in there, everyone was so friendly and we even got dragged up to join in with some Turkish dancing 🙂

Gosh, this brings back so many memories! I even ate at Hamdi Restorant! We seem to have many of the same tastes in activities as I did most of the non-meaty things you listed. Istanbul is such a wonderful city. One thing we did not listed here was to take the boat all the way up the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea. We chose a cloudy day, but we still got a foggy look at the Black Sea! Istanbul is totally worth a trip!

What a great list! Can’t wait to make it to Istanbul! 🙂

I’m going to Istanbul, Turkey in 5 days and I don’t have any plan in mind! This is really helping me lol! 🙂 I just really hope I can pronounce things right. I’m really Excited!!!!

Well, I’ve done all of these things in Istanbul except 25, 32 and 41. 🙂 Hiking around Rumeli Hisari and having kahvaltı by the Bosphorus are 2 of my fav things too!

Do you think it is necessary to hire an English speaking guide for the first day you arrive. We will be there in late may for six days.

No, you really don’t need a guide to show you around, unless of course you want one. It’s very easy to get around the city and visit the attractions on your own. If you would like a guided tour, there’s always the option of taking one of the hop-on-hop-off tours, which usually come with audio guides (or sometimes a real guide!).

I’m a Venezuelan and I love traveling! last year I backpacked through Europe with the inteRail awesome experience …… Good article and blog by the way! I’ll keep reading your adventures around the world.

If you go to Venezuela or plan to let me know, i might help you.

Regards, José F

You should also wander around “Balat”, in Golden Horn. Where is recently discovered by turkish bobos and thanks god still pure. If you check there from wikipedia, you’ll learn that it’s a jewish quarter. This information’s not completely wrong, but Balat is mainly and famously rum(in english greeks of Turkey) quarter. Probably the reason is that ancient jewish quarters are very known around the world by tourism and people don’t know nothing about rums. You should see “Fener Rum Erkek Lisesi”, an ancient minority high school, still active with its nearly fourty students. This is one of the most beautiful structures in Turkey, unfortunately not so popularised by turks. In Balat, you can see greek-named streets, ancient greek writings on the buildings. And also at the other side of the Fatih peninsula, there’s another beautiful and smaller rum fisherman quarter, Samatya. Perfect for “raki-balık”. :))

For all art events, travellers can check ” TimeOut Istanbul”website, which is in english. Turkey’s main event ticket company is “Biletix” which is in english too.

Great article covering all the things to see in Turkey. I would love to be there and hope your post will help me a lot of make a travel itinerary for Turkey. BTW, which DSLR camera did you use to take the photos? You shot some stunning photos 🙂

I’ve been to Istanbul for many times (8 I think, but who’s counting) and love it! Istanbul is probably the only city I would really LOVE to live. Like you wrote in your post, you just cannot get bored here! The mixture of old and new, traditional and modern lifestyle is simply unique! I think no matter, what interests people have, istanbul have it all! 🙂

Some additional things to try. Meet up with a local from Couch Surfing who can show you around. Best way to experience Turkish culture is with a Turk. Eat an ıslak burger in Taksim, perfect after clubbing/ late night pub food! Also, order a traditional Turkish ice cream. Very fun and unique experience. 🙂 Drink a Turkish coffee. (Most similar to espresso but definitely its own unique drink) There is a place near Taksim that is said to be the original Türk Kahvesi place. Play Tavla (backgammon) while you sip Turkish tea and smoke nargile. Drink Salep in the winter or traditional Ayran in the summer. Eat Mantı, with the garlic yogurt sauce, prepared by the village women! YUM! Try traditional Ottoman cuisine! Drink Rakı (Turkish alcoholic beverage) Especially if you like licorices (Rakı and licorices are both made from aniseed. Very potent meant to be drank with food (meze) fish or meat. Take care to drink slowly so you don’t become drunk. Eat at a Meyhane, a traditional Turkish restaurant. Drink Boza with cinnamon while you munch on some dried chickpeas. <3 Try a gözleme made in the traditional way by the village women! Spinach is my favorite. Visit Rumeli Hısarı (Rumeli Fortress) and climb the walls. Great view of the Bosphorus from the top and CHEAP 3TL entry fee. 😀 After visiting Rumeli, dine at one of the upscale fish restaurants on the Bosporus in Bebek. (Right beside the fortress) Beautiful sea view. Curious about Turkish history? Tons of things to do BUT check out the Military Museum (Near Taksim) and while you are there make sure you watch the traditional Ottoman band. Free with Museum admission. Wonderful cultural experience.

Thanks for that it was very helpful from you Nancy 🙂

Thanks for that it was very helpful from you 🙂 Hope I visit Istanbul soon.

Thank you for this list! Ooh- Cats! I am so looking forward to discovering these treasures next week when I travel to Istanbul with my friend for a holiday. I`ve been to Turkey a few years back, but have only ever stopped over at the airport in Istanbul en route to Izmir. So, it will be a great adventure to actually SEE the city this time!

Hi there, I am a person who was born and raised in Istanbul but moved out at 19 yo. This summer, we will visit Turkey for 3 weeks with my boyfriend (who is Indian) and did not know where to start and what to show. I loved your list and actually will definitely use it to plan wisely our days in Istanbul. Thank you 🙂

I’m glad to hear you found the article helpful, Alynna! Istanbul is such a fun city and I’m sure you and your boyfriend will have a wonderful time travelling there. Have a great trip! 🙂

Thanks so much for the insight of the city. Surely this is going to be a guide for me for our holiday.

perfect guide for istanbul!

Hi Audrey, what amazing tips about Istanbul, its helping me a lot to plan my trip to Turkey this year! Your blog is amazing! I hope you can visit my travel blog too: Packing my Suitcase 🙂

This is awesome.Next month I’m going to Istanbul and this is a list which will be done. Maybe I add some things, I hope so. Take care, kisses.

I am a Turkish girl living on the Asia side. I have a few suggestions for you as I have been living here for a long time. It is called simit not ‘sesame covered pretzels’ if you say that no one will understand. Don’t take the bus. There are smaller ones you can get on to. The big busses will be filled with locals and it is literally a torture get on, ride and get off. You can take the yellow taxis. But they are not the taxis you individually take. They are called dolmuş, it means filled actually. For a small amount of money you can go many great places. But since Turkish lira is cheap I suggest you take the taxi. Taxis, track the road and seem like you know where you are going. Because most of the taxi drivers will get off the road and charge you more. Bağdat Street, Kadıköy, Taksim are the best places you can shop. Many known labels have stores there such as Mango or Nine West and they are cheaper here. Beware the fake. There are many, many stores that sell it for really cheap. If they are piled up and about 30 they are fake. Most of the sellers have a tourist price. They sell stuff cheaper for locals and more expensive for tourists. Don’t try to walk anywhere you are not sure you can go. In European cities you can walk a city in a day but not in Turkey. Even if it seems close. It is not. If you are wandering in streets you don’t know, try to walk on crowded streets. Especially late at night. 1 Euro is 3 Turkish liras, so Turkey is one of the best places to shop. Even though İstanbul is the most expensive city. Don’t eat döner or any meat in corner streets. They are usually made of chicken or something else they will harm you. Look up for good places first before going. I hope you follow these and enjoy trip in İstanbul.

Ekin, I like the info you just presented. how do I reach you in Istanbul for more info? I will be in Istanbul from 26th September 2014 to 1st October 2014.

hi I’d like to know when the shops on Taksim square such as mango go on sale?? Once I travelled to Istanbul in july and they were all 70% discounted, wondering when that would happen again

Thank you for your suggestions! I Planning on visiting Istanbul in a few weeks and only staying for three days . Do you think we need a tour guy ? Thanks

Thank you so much for the post! Great information. As a woman, did you feel it’s a safe city. Me and my 2 sisters are considering a visit.

Spent a week in Istanbul 2 years ago and absolutely fell head over heels in love. I have quite a few stamps myself and Istanbul is to date my most favourite city in the world, with only Cape Town coming in at a close second. Busy planning a second trip to Turkey to see the rest of what this country has to offer and stumbled on your blog. I love ticking of lists, and could tick all 50. One of my favourites: listening to the call of prayer from the muezzins while lying on the grass (all seats on the park benches already taken) staring up at the sky and the trees overhead. Strangely peaceful and magical.

Yay!! Love this list!! I’m planning on a visit to Istanbul for a week in April 2015. Do you recommend a good book to read up on before my visit? I’m a little overwhelmed by ALL the different history of the city itself and the different changes it has made throughout history. Also, do you think 8 days is enough time to venture a little further from the city, maybe to Ephesus or Troy for a day? Not sure how far they are from the city, or how realistic it is to go to either on a day trip.

Hi Gretchen, apologies for the delay in replying. I’m just seeing your comment now. I think 8 days is plenty of time to cover a lot of the attractions in the city, that being said, it might be a tight schedule to make it to both Ephesus and Troy. I did some quick googling and it looks like the trip from Istanbul to Ephesus would take at least 10 hours one way so you’d likely want to stay overnight. And from Istanbul to Troy it appears to be 6 hours one way, and again, you’d probably want to spend the night there. I hope that helps a bit!

I only did 11 of thoses when I went to Istanbul- (7, 15,16,19,22,25,35,39, 44,47 & 48). Wish I’d had time to do number 37- sounds awesome! But I partied is Taksim as number 51 on your list instead 🙂

I am visiting Istanbul in next month for 3 days . In my tour package I have optional tours to 1) Bursa Full Day Tour: (Includes Lunch) & 2) Bosphorus+Topkapi Palace Tour : (Includes Lunch) I need to choose only one destination from the above two. Could any one please recommend which among them is best?

Hi Babitha, I didn’t go to Bursa, so I can’t really compare the two. Topkapi Palace is beautiful and you can easily spend a few hours wandering around, but personally, I did find the tour of the Bosphorous a little dull. I looked at Bursa online and it seems to have some really cool natural landscapes and it would also give you a chance to get out of Istanbul and experience a different city, so that’s something to consider. Ultimately, the choice is up to you.

You had me at #4 Kumpir. My best friend and I are planning our trip to Turkey right now and we both salivated at your picture of the baked potato =)

Please also do’not forget to do Helicopter Tour over istanbul..;) In 15 Min you can see a lot of places. And it is cheap starting from 49 Euro.

Pretty much covered everything. Thanks a ton, Audrey. This city and its people are amazing.

I am no fan of big cities as I usually find them boring and expensive but in the last week of November 2014 one of my very close friend dragged me literally to visit Istanbul. I am ever so grateful for this experience as the place just blew me away. No words can ever describe the subliminal charm of Istanbul on the new visitor . It Is like being exposed to a beautiful painting or natural beauty which appeals to your heart by bypassing reason.. Istanbul is neither Eastern or Western or Islamic or Christian or secular or modern it is all of those ALL at once. There is no other place like magical Istanbul. This pluralism is not just for show but because of its location where East meets West ISTANBUL has evolved that unique blend of values which cannot be found in any other City on earth.

Hello Navid, Planning to visit Istabmbul this Nov 18th through 23rd. How is the weather then, and if you can give me some tips what to do at that time in Istambul. Thanks

Thank you very much for this advice. I absolutely love Istanbul. Something that you may want to include in this blog is the culinary walks provided by http://www.spooninmypocket.com . I took one of them and it really shows the Turkish culture. The people in Istanbul absolutely love food and that really shows in the food we tasted during the tour. It is a nice change to the crowded, busy tourist spots in Istanbul

The Princes Islands is a MUST if your going to Istanbul. Heybeliada is stunning and less built up than Buyukada. Stay at The Karamanyan boutique apartments, for a trendy and chic romantic experience.

I do love Istanbul and looking forward to visit Istanbul in 2015 during summer holidays

If your travelling to the Princes’ Islands stop off at Heybeliada stay at the Karamanyan apartments, just voted in the top 10 self catering apartments in Turkey by The Guardian newspaper, they are run by an english couple. They offer an authentic and stylish island retreat, perfect for any traveller. The Karamanyan building itself is a 200 yr old Ottoman timber mansion that onced housed the visiting monks travelling to the 11th century monastery on the hill opposite. The Penthouse has stunning views to this monastery, and they stretch all the way back to Istanbul city. In the evening you can see the city lights twinkling as dusk settle in. Check out the website: http://www.karamanyan.com

What a wonderful list, Audrey. I started with ten things to do in Istanbul but I’m thinking it could easily grow to over a hundred. Istanbul is such a fascinating city. http://packinglighttravel.com/destinations/ten-things-to-do-in-istanbul/

I just went to Istanbul and Cappadocia with my husband to celebrate our 8 wedding anniversary. We almost followed ur entire list in Istanbul in 5 days. And i must compliment u for such details as it was a great guideline to get insights of Istanbul as a local.

Thanks so much for this great list of things to see and do in Istanbul. We are stopping over for 5 days this summer and are just starting do our research and your list is an excellent start. I also enjoyed the comments added by everyone. Thanks very much, we are excited about our upcoming trip.

İstanbul is very big old city with beautiful places. I’m living in İstanbul. I’m a student so i can show you the beauties of the city. I can share my flat.Just e mail me the date of visit. They are all free. I just want to improve my English. e-mail: [email protected]

This is the best list to discover Istanbul! If you try to do all of these things, you need more than 10 days but I think it will be unforgetable journey in your life 😉

Cheers, http://www.wetravelturkey.com

I absolutely love Istanbul, the city where east meet west. You definitely have to take an Istanbul Food Walks Tour. Its a great way to get off the tourist trail and explore and taste the real istanbul. IstanbulFoodWalks.com . Best part of the trip!

Thanks so much for all this information. I head to istanbul in two weeks time for four days and didn’t really know what to do. Now my list is full and I’m looking forward to trying lots of tasty food. Thanks so much. X

Hello Audrey, i know we are not in Istanbul but we would love to see the Blue Cruise http://www.mybluecrusie.com listed on your list, i think blue cruises is in top ten things to do. Please check it out and if you travel south be our guest on board. Thanks Kind Regards Ali

I will be in Istanbul this May 7-13, 2015 and thank you for all these tips and recommendations, very useful.

Wow. This is a great list. Thanks for posting it. I arrived today and am very excited to do as much of this list as possible.

woow sounds like soo much fun I can’t wait I’m going in 2015 summer holidays for two weeks really excited … I hope it’s a memorable trip ..still don’t know what hotel to stay at though cud anyone reccomend a nice quiet friendly place ? Thanks

istanbul is great city with friendly people too friendly but i enjoyed every minute i loved the cats and the cruise and the dances

You made a great list.But i think you didnt go Nevizade. You must go Nevizade to drink a little alcohol or hot/cold drink with crowds.People enjoy with in istanbul

I am a local and I must say this is a very good list 🙂

Great list of things to see and do in Istanbul. I am heading to Turkey in August. Keep it up 🙂

What time of the year did you visit? I plan on going in December and it’s been difficult trying to find things to do during that time.

Hi Michelle, I was there in October and November and the city was still buzzing with activity. The main attractions would be open year round – except for a handful of holidays – but it really shouldn’t affect your travel plans.

I read your article and absolutely loved it! In fact I went to Istanbul last November for a week and experienced everything that you had mentioned.!! It is a magical city for sure…from people to food to sights and ambiance!!!! I fell in love with the city!!

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı): This is a very magical underground cistern with dimmed light; there comes a classical music and sound of dripping water. Its a very romantic experience. Its like you find yourself at one of the fairy tales.. This is my all time favorite spot in Istanbul.

If you are visiting Istanbul and searching for a unique local experience, as a local, i can share my top 20 to do list with you. Please contact me so that I can email it to you.

Also I am an Airbnb host, having an apartment located 10 mins walk to Taksim Square. I love meeting new people and share my experiences with them. Lets keep in touch!.

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/6943257

Your blog was my guide ?

Hi guys. I live in Istanbul since I was born 🙂 Istanbul is still incredible to me and wonderful, exotic.. all of you must see. Have a nice day!

This is a great comprehensive list. There are so many amazing things to see and do in Istanbul, but also outside of Istanbul.

I cannot recommend Kapadocia (Cappadocia), Pamukkale Travertines and the ancient Roman cities of Hierapolis and Ephesus enough, not to mention the underground city of Derinkuyu. I absolutely love Turkey and cannot wait to head back there. So much history and culture. Thank you so much for reminding me 🙂

Hello, i will be leaving for ISTANBUL this september 2015 ,Hope this guidance will help me there,are there any good night clubs/discos???

This is ONE AMAZING and very thorough guide. You’re not working for the tourism board are you? I will recommend it to anyone going to Istanbul – and only wish I had a ticket in my hand right now so I could do everything you suggested.

Great list of things to see and do in Istanbul. I am heading to Turkey in August. It really is a great city to be in.

Thanks! Glad the article was helpful. Enjoy your trip to Turkey. 🙂

Great Insight. I am travelling to Istanbul in December (Alone) and was wondering what all can I do. I am spending about 5 nights there. I am sure I would be able to cover most of the city with your help. Thanks again! 🙂

Thanks a lot for information given here. I have a plan to visit Istanbul on May 2016. Really can’t wait to experience this nice city ?

Even local people who lives in Istanbul should take this post as reference. 🙂 I am sure they miss some of them. Great tips after all. Thank you for sharing.

I might be coming this Feb 2016 in Istanbul, any recommendations for a decent but cheap hostel?

I’ve always rented a mix of private rooms or apartments through AirBnB when visiting, so I can’t personally recommend any hostels based on first-hand experience. That being said, I’d suggest going on Hostelworld and choosing a place based on the ratings and reviews. Enjoy Istanbul! 🙂

This is a great guide for the future visitors and for locals also. Thanks…

AUDREY love you I followed all your recommendation I really enjoyed If you people want a cheap shopping and absorbed a Turkish culture (very quite) just goto Asian Side area is Uskudar from kabatash take a boat ride price is 4 lira one way you will really enjoy. Must see tokapi palace hagia Sophiya and Galata Tower.

This post brings back so many great memories of Istanbul. The call of prayers between the mosques was almost like a “rap-off” amazing. And the calls of “chai chai chai” as men walked around offering tea for 1 lira. Great people and even better food. Midye Dolma is one of my top 10 street foods of all time and Kadikoy market is great for food, much better than the Spice Bazaar.

We spent 2 months in Istanbul and haven’t seen it all. Although we ate almost all the dishes available! Absolutely love Turkish food! Planning our return to Istanbul in a couple of months 🙂

You have posted really nice article. This helped a lot to me as I’ll be visiting Turkey next month for my official trip. I will surely visit the places you have mentioned. Turkish food especially dondurma is the most enticing thing which I want to try.

Thanks for sharing superlative list of places and other things to-do in Turkey. 🙂

Eating a kumpir in Istanbul, bathing in a hamam, touring Bosporus, Hagia Sophia, is in my bucket list. Not exactly this. But I would like to do everything from this list. This is a lot of info. Deciding on one thing is difficult.

Hey Aaudrey, You have covered the places so amazingly! I will be visiting istanbul this month for an academic conference and will have just two days to visit the places. Is there anything you can suggest.

What a wonderful post! I want to share another tip for transportation: If you have internet connection on your tablet or mobile phone, use https://taksiyle.com/en just before taking a taxi from airport, hotel or restaurant. It will help you to avoid potential taxi scams in Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya and other metropolitan areas in Turkey. Also it will give an outline about the routings.

Great tips to know about Istanbul. I loved that pretty cat. Thank you for sharing.

seriously! this is the best article i have read for my plan to turkey!! simply, you are awesome.i like how you organize it in points along with pictures and brief explanation for everything. i’ll take it copy paste and follow your words 😀 ….love it sincerely…

Also love the colourfull streets in Balat. And you can make a jump-photo above the Buyuk Valide Han with the istanbul view. You can also see istanbul at the Galatatower. Go to Uskudar to Maidentower, little island, for another view. Don’t forget the Turkish breakfast. I love Istanbul, the city with character.

What an amazing guide to Istanbul!. Just like you, it is one of my favorite cities too. Hope to be back in Istanbul soon!

Love your post! Travelling to Istanbul next month and I haven’t decided where to go and what to see. Thanks for the list ❤

Very useful list. Thanks for this information. I really love Istanbul.

Love Your youtube Channel, you both make a great couple. You are inspiration and I have started a travel blog!

I love Turkey and İstanbul! Thank you.

Istanbul is a fantastic place to be, cant wait to be there again for the 2019 UEFA Super Cup Finals. How is the internet connectivity in Instanbul cause I need the internet to remain online. A friend of mine recommended rentnconnect and Skyroam pocket WiFis let me know if anyone has had an experience with the two companies

hey thanks for the great article!

Istanbul is a great city especially in winter!

It is a great article, great things to do listed in Istanbul, but one of the best things can be free walking tour in the old city with official tour guides. They give great understanding history of Istanbul, This a good one that you may like to check; http://www.freeistanbultours.com

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The 40 best attractions in Istanbul

Our list of Istanbul's top 40 attractions is your gateway to discovering the city's rich historical, cultural, architectural, artistic and natural gems. Let's dive into the heart of Istanbul and discover its treasures

Istanbul connects Europe and Asia and offers a fascinating blend of history and modernity. From the dazzling Hagia Sophia to the lively Grand Bazaar, Istanbul's sights are as colourful and diverse as the city's culture. Whether visiting the city for the first time or having lived here for a long time, exploring Istanbul's top sights is a unique experience. It's not just limited to the famous view of the Bosphorus or its unique historical heritage; it's a vibrant metropolis constantly evolving and full of surprises. The list of Istanbul's top 40 attractions is your gateway to discovering the city's rich historical, cultural, architectural, artistic and natural gems. Let's dive into the heart of Istanbul and discover its treasures.

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What makes the cut? While we've not reviewed every attraction, we've based our list on reviews, editorial insight, and popularity to find you the best attractions. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information,  see our   affiliate guidelines .

Istanbul’s top attractions

1.  Sultanahmet District

What is it?  Sultanahmet is the historical heart of Istanbul, encompassing landmarks from the Ottoman and Byzantine eras. This district is home to Haghia Sophia, the Atmeydanı (Hippodrome), Topkapı Palace, the Archaeological Museums, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, and the Blue Mosque.

Why go?  Visiting Sultanahmet is essential for experiencing Istanbul's rich history and architectural grandeur. It offers a journey through the city's imperial past, with various cultural and historical sites.

2.  Hagia Sophia

What is it?  The Hagia Sophia, a cornerstone of Istanbul's historical landscape, was completed in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Originally the largest cathedral in the world, it became a mosque and then a museum. This architectural marvel is famous for its massive dome and exquisite Byzantine mosaics, which include portraits of emperors and religious figures. It also houses unique runic inscriptions from the Viking Age.

Why go?  The impressive dome and intricate mosaics give an insight into past civilisations' artistic and cultural heights. This iconic structure is a monument and a testament to Istanbul's historical and spiritual significance - a must-see for anyone passionate about history, art and architecture.

3.  Blue Mosque

What is it?  The Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is a remarkable architectural masterpiece from the early 17th century. Located opposite the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is still an active place of worship, with visits restricted during prayer time. Despite the crowds, the mosque is a significant testament to its time and epitomises the architectural style of the classical age.

Why go?  Its iconic status and the opportunity to view its majestic design, especially from the nearby Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art, offer a unique experience to understand Istanbul's rich cultural and architectural heritage.

4.  Basilica Cistern

What is it?  The Basilica Cistern, known as Yerebatan Sarnıcı, was reopened in 2022 after an extensive archaeological restoration by the IMM. This vast and remarkable underground cistern, built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I, is 10,000 square metres and was once an important water source for the city. It consists of 336 marble columns, each 9 metres high and arranged in 12 rows, and is known for its unique architectural elements, including the famous Medusa head sculptures.

Why go?  The cistern's striking columns and mysterious Medusa heads are an enchanting experience. Today, the cistern is a museum that not only showcases the historical significance of the cistern but also hosts various cultural and artistic events.

5.  Topkapı Palace

What is it?  Topkapı Palace is not just a building but a sprawling testament to the luxury and power of the Ottoman Empire. It was the Ottoman sultans' primary residence for over four centuries, a central government seat and a royal court. Today, it is one of the most important museums in Istanbul and displays the rich history of the empire. Visitors can explore the extensive rooms and chambers, each of which tells a different story about the life and reign of the sultans. One of the most valuable exhibits is the 86-carat spoon maker’s diamond, a breathtaking symbol of luxury. The palace also houses an impressive collection of weapons, precious jewellery, and religious artefacts.

Why go?  Walking through the palace halls, you feel transported back in time, surrounded by the luxury that characterised the Sultan's reign. The palace offers insight not only into the private lives of the sultans but also into the administrative and ceremonial functions of the empire.

6.  Gülhane Park

What is it?  Next to the magnificent Topkapı Palace, at the tip of Istanbul's historic peninsula, lies Gülhane Park, one of the city's largest and most beautiful parks. This green oasis is a peaceful retreat in the middle of the bustling old town. Its expansive lawns, shady walkways and picturesque views offer a glimpse into the city's imperial past while providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and leisure. The park's history as part of the Topkapı Palace adds to its appeal and is a vibrant part of Istanbul's rich heritage.

Why go?  If you visit the park in spring, you can admire its brightly coloured tulips - a picturesque sight not to be missed. In spring, Gülhane Park is transformed into a spectacular display of colour with thousands of tulips in bloom, a nod to the flower's deep-rooted significance in Turkish culture.

7.  Eminönü District

What is it?  Eminönü, at the entrance to the Golden Horn, offers a unique insight into the cultural diversity of Istanbul and combines historical architecture with vibrant street life. It's an ideal destination for exploring famous sights such as the Spice Bazaar and Süleymaniye Mosque and experiencing the city's dynamic daily scene. It's an important transport hub that can be reached by ferry and tram, connecting different parts of the city. The neighbourhood is characterised by essential sights such as the Spice Bazaar, Sirkeci Railway Station and the 16th-century Rüstem Pasha Mosque.

Why go?  Eminönü is perfect for those who want to dive into the heart of Istanbul's history and experience everyday hustle and bustle.

8.  Grand Bazaar

What is it?  The Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, is a monumental testament to Istanbul's rich trading history. This bustling marketplace is more than just a shopping destination; it's a historical marvel. The bazaar's intricate network of lanes and alleys, lined with shops and stalls, offers everything from traditional Turkish crafts to jewellery, textiles, and spices. The architecture of the bazaar, with its domed halls and vaulted passageways, reflects the city's vibrant cultural and commercial heritage.

Why go?  Visiting the Grand Bazaar is an experience transcending the mere act of shopping. It's a place to immerse oneself in Istanbul's past and present essence. Even if you're not looking to buy, wandering through the bazaar is like stepping back in time, where every corner holds a piece of history and every shop a story.

9.  Çemberlitaş Hamamı

What is it?  The Çemberlitaş Hamamı, which was built in 1584 by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, is one of the oldest and architecturally most important hammams in Istanbul. Nurbanu Sultan commissioned it, and it is a testimony to Ottoman bath architecture, which combines functionality, elegance and simplicity. Located close to Istanbul's historical sights, this hamam has separate sections for men and women, each topped by large domes and decorated with marble and intricate inscriptions.

Why go?  The Çemberlitaş Hamamı offers an authentic Turkish bath experience steeped in history. The traditional treatments and the tranquil and historic surroundings offer a unique opportunity to relax and immerse yourself in Istanbul's cultural heritage.

10.  Spice Bazaar

What is it?  The Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is a lively and historic marketplace in Istanbul. It was built in the 16th century and is a more intimate alternative to the sprawling Grand Bazaar. The bazaar is famous for its many stalls selling spices, sweets, teas, dried fruits and other goods. The Spice Bazaar isn't just a place to shop but also a sensory journey through the rich flavours of Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Why go?  A visit to the Spice Bazaar is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a colourful and aromatic world. It's the perfect place to buy authentic Turkish delicacies, spices, medicinal herbs, and unique souvenirs. Whether for shopping or just to experience the lively atmosphere, the Spice Bazaar is a must-see in Istanbul.

11.  Istanbul Modern

What is it?  Istanbul Modern is the pioneering museum of modern and contemporary art in Istanbul. Founded in 2004, the museum was initially located in Antrepo No. 4, a former dry cargo warehouse on the banks of the Bosphorus. In 2018, Istanbul Modern entered a new phase: it temporarily relocated to Beyoğlu while the original building underwent an extensive renovation. In 2023, the museum reopened at its new location in Karaköy. The new design, created by the renowned Renzo Piano, draws inspiration from the shimmering waters of the Bosphorus. It offers expanded exhibition spaces, a state-of-the-art auditorium and improved public facilities.

Why go?  The new building offers an even better experience for visitors with its innovative design and interactive spaces. Whether you're an art lover or a curious explorer, Istanbul Modern offers you a captivating insight into the evolving history of contemporary art in Istanbul and beyond.

12.  Galataport

What is it?  Galataport Istanbul, a 1.7 billion dollar development project, has transformed Istanbul's historic harbour into a dynamic urban space. The sprawling 112,000 square metre complex has 230 retail and restaurant units, making it a bustling hub for shopping and dining. Galataport offers many local and international restaurants, major art museums, and cultural events. As a popular attraction in Istanbul, Galataport draws visitors with its unique mix of retail, dining and culture.

Why go?  It's a perfect place for families and tourists to explore, offering everything from shopping to arts and entertainment. The harbour redevelopment has also opened up a 1.2 km stretch of coastline in Karaköy, where you can stroll.

13.  Pera Museum

What is it?  Opened in 2005 in Istanbul's historic Tepebaşı neighbourhood, the Pera Museum is one of the city's cultural highlights. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, the museum features a mix of temporary global art exhibitions and three permanent collections: 'Oriental Paintings', 'Anatolian Weights and Measures' and ‘Kütahya Tiles and Ceramics'. Founded by the Suna and İnan Kıraç Foundation, the museum is also home to Pera Film, a cinema that screens various independent films and documentaries.

Why go?  Visiting the Pera Museum offers a deep insight into historical and contemporary art. The museum's diverse exhibitions and permanent collections provide local and global art insights.

14.  Bosphorus Strait

What is it?  The Bosporus is a vital strait that not only forms part of the border between Europe and Asia but is also an important sea route. As the narrowest strait in the world used for international shipping, it connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara, which is connected to the Aegean and the Mediterranean through the Dardanelles. With a length of 31 kilometres, the Bosphorus varies in width, with the narrowest point being only 700 metres wide. The strait is bordered by four lighthouses: Rumeli Feneri and Anadolu Feneri in the north and Ahırkapı Feneri and İnciburnu Feneri in the south. This geographical marvel is not only a critical waterway but also a picturesque region of Istanbul that offers classic shoreline promenades, baroque palaces, yalıs (waterfront mansions) and several excellent museums.

Why go?  Exploring the Bosphorus offers the opportunity to experience Istanbul's unique geographical location and rich cultural heritage. The Bosphorus is ideal for leisurely exploring, whether walking along its banks, visiting opulent palaces and traditional yalıs or discovering the diverse museums on its shores.

15.  Cağaloğlu Hamam

What is it?  The Cağaloğlu Hamamı, built in 1741 during the reign of Sultan Mahmut I, is the last great Hamam built in the Ottoman era and a significant historical landmark of Istanbul. Designed by court architect Süleyman Ağa and completed by Abdullah Ağa, the hammam has baroque features and stylistic innovations unusual for classical Ottoman architecture. It was initially built as a çifte (double) public hamam to raise revenue for Sultan Mahmut I's library in the Ayasofya Mosque. The Hamam, covered by a large dome with a glass roof, houses a restaurant, shops, a hairdresser and a shoe shine parlour.

Why go?  A visit to the Cağaloğlu Hamamı offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a traditional Turkish bathing experience in a historical setting. This experience is designed to make visitors feel like royalty, like the Ottoman sultans whose portraits adorn the entrance.

16.  The Museum of Innocence

What is it?  The Museum of Innocence is not just a museum but a living narrative inspired by Orhan Pamuk's novel of the same name. In this innovative space, literature and reality merge and make the setting of the novel tangible. The Museum of Innocence is a captivating destination for anyone interested in Istanbul's cultural and historical diversity. It houses an extensive collection of artefacts, photographs and memorabilia that reflect the novel's bittersweet love story and mirror Istanbul's development since the 1970s.

Why go?  This museum is more than just an exhibition of artefacts; it is an exploration of the soul of a city told through the lens of a poignant story. An added attraction for visitors is the novel's unique feature: a ticket printed on the final pages that can be stamped upon entering the museum. This combined experience enriches the visit and makes it a must for literature lovers.

17.  Maiden’s Tower

What is it?

The Maiden's Tower (Kız Kulesi / Leander Tower), whose history dates back to 24 BC, is a historic lighthouse and cultural symbol on a tiny island at the southern entrance to the Bosphorus. Due to its location, it is regularly exposed to the elements and the sea and frequently damaged by earthquakes. The tower has been restored several times throughout its long history, most notably after being destroyed by an earthquake in 1509 and later by Mahmut II in 1832. The most recent restoration, which took place from 2021 to 2023, was carried out under the supervision of expert academics. You can reach the Maiden's Tower by private boats that depart from the Üsküdar-Salacak and Galataport piers.

Built on a tiny island about 200 metres from the shore of Üsküdar, the Maiden's Tower offers a unique experience combining history, architecture, and stunning panoramic views.

18.  Istanbul Aquarium

What is it?  The Istanbul Aquarium, known as the largest themed aquarium in the world, offers a unique journey through different aquatic worlds. The sprawling aquarium covers 22,000 square metres and houses 66 tanks with 7,000 cubic metres of water, in which around 1,500 species and 17,000 marine and terrestrial creatures can be seen. In addition to themed cafeterias and a restaurant with panoramic views, it offers 17 themed areas and a rainforest that takes visitors from the Black Sea to the Pacific.

Why go?  The aquarium offers interactive elements, films and visual graphics that enrich the experience and make it more than just an exhibition of marine animals.

19.  Rahmi M. Koç Museum

What is it?  The Rahmi M. Koç Museum in Istanbul was founded in 2005 and is dedicated to the history of transport, industry and communication. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building in Beyoğlu. It displays a variety of exhibits from the fields of road, rail, sea and air transport, as well as technical and scientific instruments. The collection, mainly from the private collection of Rahmi M. Koç, is complemented by interactive learning areas and a cinema. The museum covers several sites, including the historic Lengerhane building and the Hasköy shipyard, each with its own historical significance. The open-air exhibition features significant artefacts such as vintage cars and a submarine from World War II.

Why go?  The museum is an educational and exciting experience for all ages, with various exhibits that bring the history of industry and innovation to life. The museum's unique location on the Golden Horn makes it even more attractive.

20.  Princes’ Islands

What is it?  The Princes' Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara, offer a tranquil refuge from one of the busiest cities in the world. The İstanbul Islands are steeped in history and multiculturalism, reminiscent of the Ottoman Empire era. The group consists of nine islands, four larger and five smaller ones, all of which are closed to modern traffic in order to preserve their tranquil environment. The main islands - Büyükada, Kınalıada, Burgazada and Heybeliada - are accessible by ferry and are popular for their beaches, historic villas and Victorian cottages.

Why go?  The Princes' Islands are an ideal destination for a day trip, especially in summer, as they offer a glimpse into a slower-paced, car-free life. Visitors can explore the islands on foot, by bike or on electric bus tours.

21.  Galata Mevlevi Lodge

What is this?  The Galata Mevlevi Lodge in the heart of Istanbul is a historical and spiritual landmark. Founded in the 15th century, the oldest ‘tekke’ in Istanbul served the Mevlevi order and is known for its deep roots in Sufism. In 1975, this important building was converted into a museum, which today is a central element of Sufi culture and tradition. The Galata Mevlevi Lodge is a treasure trove for anyone interested in Sufi culture and history. It displays various artefacts, including musical instruments, calligraphy and traditional Mevlevi clothing.

Why go?  The main attraction is the mesmerising Sema ceremony, performed by whirling dervishes every Sunday at 17.00, which offers a unique insight into the spiritual practises of the Mevlevi order. Visitors are advised to get tickets in advance and arrive early to get good seats. Occasionally, concerts of classical Ottoman music are also held in the hut, adding to the cultural appeal.

22.  St. Antoine Church

What is it?  St Antoine's Church, the largest Catholic church in Istanbul, adorns Istiklal Caddesi with its majestic Venetian neo-Gothic architecture. Built between 1906 and 1912, the church is a place of worship and a historical landmark. It is known for its association with Pope John XXIII, who served here before becoming pope and commemorated by a courtyard statue.

Why go?  St. Antoine Church offers peace in the busy Beyoğlu district and is ideal for quiet reflection. Services are held in several languages, including English and Turkish, making the church a welcoming place for diverse worshippers and those interested in its rich history and architectural beauty.

23.  Casa Botter

What is it?  The Botter Apartment or Casa Botter on Istiklal Street is an architectural gem built initially as Istanbul's first fashion house by Dutch tailor Jean Botter in the early 20th century. Designed by architect Raimondo D'Aronco, the historic building was recently restored and transformed into a design and art centre that houses various cultural spaces such as an exhibition hall, a demonstration centre and a design workshop.

Why go?  Now a centre for art and design, Casa Botter is a must-see because it offers a unique combination of historical architecture and contemporary art.

24.  Gazhane Museum

What is it?  Gazhane Museum, originally the Hasanpaşa Gashouse, has a rich history dating back to 1892. It was the last gashouse in Istanbul, providing light and fuel for over a century. After its closure in 1993, the building, which represents a significant piece of Turkish industrial heritage, was left to its own devices. After a lengthy and extensive restoration by the IMM, the 130-year-old building was reborn as the Gazhane Museum in 2021. Located in Kadıköy, this vibrant cultural and community space offers a climate and caricature museum, a children's science centre, exhibition and workshop areas, theatres, libraries, and activity spaces. It also includes a climate crisis exhibition, a restaurant, and a café, all within a 32,000 square-meter campus.

Why go?  The museum offers cultural, artistic and scientific events and stages, libraries and workspaces for young people that are open 24 hours a day. Visitors can relax among the resident cats in the garden and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.

25.  Galata Tower

What is it?  The Galata Tower, built in 1348, is a striking landmark on the Istanbul skyline. It originally belonged to a Genoese colony and has been restored to house a museum showcasing Istanbul's extensive history. From its top-floor balcony, you have a panoramic view of the city, the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara.

Why go?  The tower offers an unrivalled view of Istanbul and a unique insight into the city's historical development - all from a major architectural landmark.

26.  Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture

What is it?  Founded in 1937 and initially located at Dolmabahçe Palace, the Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture (IMPS) is Turkey's first museum dedicated to plastic arts. After a temporary closure, it was relocated to the redesigned Antrepo 5 in the Tophane district. The museum, now housed in a modernised space, completed its renovation in 2021 and offers a contemporary setting for its extensive art collection.

Why go?  IMPS is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, showcasing a rich array of Turkish fine arts in a modern museological environment. The museum's blend of historical significance and contemporary design provides a unique cultural experience, making it a standout destination in Istanbul's art scene.

27.  Belgrad Forest

What is it?  The Belgrad Forest stretches over 1300 hectares and is a green oasis in Istanbul known for its hiking trails, picnic areas and barbecue sites. This deciduous forest is not only a botanical treasure with a variety of interesting plants but also a historical site with ancient aqueducts and several recreational areas such as Ayvad Dam, Bueyuek Çeşme and Mehmet Akif Ersoy Recreation Area. The forest is a habitat for various wild animals, including deer, weasels, snakes and the occasional fox or wolf. A 6-kilometre hiking trail winds around a picturesque lake and is ideal for walking, jogging, or running.

Why go?  Belgrad Forest is an ideal retreat for anyone looking for peace and a touch of nature. The quiet paths and abundant wildlife offer a refreshing break from Istanbul's urban hustle and bustle and are perfect for outdoor activities or simply relaxing in the greenery.

28.  Atatürk Arboretum

What is it?  Founded in 1949 and nestled within the Belgrade Forest, the Atatürk Arboretum covers 300 hectares and is home to almost 2,000 tree and plant species worldwide. This green oasis in the north of Istanbul is home to tranquil lakes, diverse flora including oak, fir and sequoia trees and the city's first swan nursery, founded in 1916.

Why go?  The Atatürk Arboretum offers a peaceful escape from the urban bustle of Istanbul and is ideal for quiet walks and immersing yourself in nature. Just 5 kilometres from the city, it is ideal for relaxation and fresh air amidst rich botanical surroundings.

29.  Istanbul Archeology Museums

What is it?  The Istanbul Archaeology Museums, Turkey's first museum founded in the late 19th century, is a remarkable complex that includes the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Ancient Near Eastern Works and the Tile Kiosk Museum. It houses an extensive collection of artefacts from Ancient Greece, Rome, Turkey and beyond, including the famous sarcophagus of Alexander the Great. The museum buildings are architectural gems, with the Tiled Kiosk being one of the oldest examples of Ottoman civil architecture in Istanbul.

Why go?  Visiting the Istanbul Archaeology Museum offers a deep insight into ancient civilisations. It is an enlightening experience for anyone interested in history, archaeology or art. The museum's extensive collection offers a comprehensive insight into the region's rich past and is necessary for a meaningful and educational journey through time.

30.  Tünel

What is this?  The Tünel is a historic funicular railway connecting Karaköy with Tünel Square in Istanbul. It was opened in 1875, making it the second oldest underground railway after the London Underground. It was initially built to provide traders and merchants a faster way up and down the steep hill between the city's two parts. This short but significant route is popular for those arriving at Karaköy Pier and heading to Beyoğlu. The journey takes around 90 seconds, and trains run every 5 minutes, making it an efficient travel method.

Why go?  As well as being practical, the Tünel offers a glimpse into Istanbul's rich historical past and is a delightful experience for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're interested in history or simply looking for a unique way to travel around the city, a ride on the Tünel is a must in Istanbul.

31.  Süreyya Opera House

What is this?  The Süreyya Opera House, an impressive architectural marvel, was commissioned in 1927 by the famous politician Süreyya İlmen Pasha. This iconic cultural centre is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and is a first-class address for opera and ballet performances. Due to an incomplete stage, the Süreyya Opera House initially served as a cinema and wedding venue for many years. However, after an extensive restoration in 2007, it was reopened and originally served as a performing arts centre.

Why go there?  Today, it is not only the performances that attract visitors but also the building itself, which is a sight to behold. Its walls exude nostalgia, and the art deco foyer, inspired by the Champs-Elysées theatre in Paris, testifies to its historical and architectural significance.

32.  Bomontiada

What is it?  Bomontiada, located in the vibrant European side of Istanbul, is a dynamic cultural complex that has revitalised the once-dormant Bomonti and Kurtuluş neighbourhoods. This innovative space within the historic and previously abandoned Bomonti beer factory is a melting pot of artistic and culinary experiences. It houses the renowned music venue Babylon, the versatile art space Alt, the Leica Camera Turkey, the Ara Güler Museum, and various restaurants.

Why go?  Bomontiada combines art, music, photography, and gastronomy, offering something for everyone. The complex is especially lively during the warmer months, hosting free outdoor concerts and film screenings in its airy courtyard.

33.  Sakıp Sabancı Museum

What is it?  The Sakıp Sabancı Museum in Istanbul's Emirgan district is a famous cultural institution housed in a historic mansion on the Bosphorus. The former residence of business tycoon Sakıp Sabancı is now a prominent museum for significant art exhibitions featuring works by Monet, Picasso and other famous artists. The museum's permanent collections include the ‘Art of the Book and Calligraphy’, which exhibits exquisite Ottoman calligraphy and illuminated manuscripts, the ‘Painting and Sculpture Collection’ with many works of art, the ‘Decorative Arts’ and an ‘Archaeological’ collection.

Why go?  Housed in a mansion known for its equestrian statue and historical significance, the museum is a must-see for anyone wishing to explore Istanbul's artistic and cultural heritage.

34.  Pierre Loti Hill

What is that?  Pierre Loti Hill is located in the quiet in Eyüp and is named after the French writer Julien Viaud, known by his pseudonym Pierre Loti. The hill above the Golden Horn is famous for its breathtaking views and a collection of well-preserved 19th-century Istanbul architecture. Visitors can reach the summit by cable car or a staircase that winds through the Sultan's Cemetery. The hill is not only a natural landscape but also a historical site, home to six historic mansions converted into a boutique hotel, restaurant and café where Loti wrote his novels.

Why go there?  The hill offers one of the most famous views of the Golden Horn and becomes even more magical after sunset when the city lights illuminate the area.

35.  Turkish and Islamic Art Museum

What is it?  Opened in 1914, the Turkish and Islamic Art Museum is located in the historic Ibrahim Paşa Palace near the Blue Mosque and houses a diverse collection of Islamic art. The museum is known for the world's best carpet collection, including rare Seljuk carpets from the 13th century. Also, it displays glassware, ceramics, metal artefacts and a section on life in Istanbul in the 19th century.

Why go?  Although the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art is not one of the most famous museums in Istanbul, it takes its visitors on a journey through time with its works from various historical periods.

36.  Dolmabahçe Palace

What is it?  The Dolmabahçe Palace, completed in 1856, is a historical landmark of Istanbul and was the last residence of the Ottoman sultans and the summer residence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic. The palace is known for its opulent interiors, including the world's most enormous crystal chandelier, and has been transformed from a natural harbour into a magnificent mansion. It has 285 rooms, 44 halls and a unique blend of Ottoman and Western architectural styles.

Why go?  A visit to the Dolmabahçe Palace is a journey through the luxury of the Ottoman era and a poignant link to modern Turkish history. It was in this palace that Atatürk spent his last days.

37.  Emirgan Korusu

What is it?  Emirgan Korusu is located on the European shore of the Bosphorus north of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and is one of the largest and most picturesque parks in Istanbul. This tranquil haven is located in Emirgan, which stretches across a low headland between Baltalimanı and İstinye. The park offers breathtaking views across the Bosphorus to Kanlıca and the expansive Beykoz Bay. Emirgan Korusu is known for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere.

Why go?  Emirgan Korusu is known for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. It's enchanting in spring when it's transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colour thanks to the thousands of tulips planted for the annual Tulip Festival.

38.  Borusan Contemporary

What is it?  Borusan Contemporary Perili Köşk in Istanbul, also known as the Haunted Mansion, is an innovative "office museum" where the Borusan Contemporary Art Collection is exhibited. During the week, it is the office of the Borusan Holding Company, while at weekends, it is transformed into a museum where a range of contemporary artworks are exhibited, and exhibitions curated by well-known personalities are shown.

Why go?  This unique venue offers a novel experience of viewing contemporary art in a corporate environment. Open to visitors at weekends, it offers a fascinating mix of art and business, enriched with educational programmes and cultural discussions.

39.  Khedive Palace

What is it?  Khedive Palace (Hıdiv Kasrı), dating back to the early 20th century, is an architectural gem in Istanbul's Çubuklu and Kanlıca quarters. This Art Nouveau palace, with Neo-classical Ottoman elements, offers panoramic Bosphorus views from its marble terraces. Nearby, Çubuklu Park provides a serene, less crowded environment for leisurely walks and photography.

Why go?  Visit for a tranquil escape in Istanbul, where the palace's restaurant offers delightful views and dining. The park is perfect for a peaceful stroll, and the nearby Kanlıca quarter is known for its delicious yoghurt and charming architecture.

40.  Miniatürk

What is that?  Miniatürk in Istanbul is a miniature park that displays 1:25 scale models of Turkey's famous landmarks. The miniature park comprises 137 models, including historical buildings from Istanbul, Anatolia and the former Ottoman territories. The park represents Turkey's 3,000-year history and includes replicas of two ancient wonders, the Temple of Artemis and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.

Why go?  Miniatürk is a favourite excursion destination in Istanbul for both locals and tourists and offers an excellent opportunity to explore the monumental highlights of Turkey in a short time. The mobile audio guide application in nine languages complements this educational experience.

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Istanbul Travel Tips: 27 Essential things to know before visiting Istanbul

Planning a trip to Istanbul isn’t that straightforward as there are quite a few things you need to know before visiting Istanbul.

You might be wondering whether you need a visa, what are the best places to stay, how to get around the city, how to save money, or what are the common scams to watch out for.

All your questions will be answered in this blog post where I’ll share my top Istanbul travel tips for first-time visitors and things I wished I’d known before visiting.

So without further ado, here are 27 essential travel tips for Istanbul.

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Read more about Turkey:

• How to spend 4 days in Istanbul
• Top 20 free attractions in Istanbul
• 16 Best photography spots in Istanbul
• How to spend 7 days in Turkey
• Best ways to get from Istanbul to Ephesus
• How to book a Turkey car rental

Table of Contents

Istanbul Travel Tips for planning your trip

1. you need at least 3 or 4 days in istanbul.

Istanbul is a huge city with so many things to do. This is why you need a minimum of 3 or 4 days for a proper introduction to the city and to hit all the main tourist attractions.

If you need help planning your itinerary, make sure to read my guide on how to spend 4 days in Istanbul .

Related post: Istanbul itinerary for 4 days

2. Book your hotel in advance

One of the most important Istanbul travel tips is to book your hotel in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak season (June to August).

Most of the nicer hotels are usually sold out several weeks or even months in advance. Booking in advance also means that you’ll benefit from cheaper rates.

Some of the best places to stay in Istanbul include Tomtom Suites , World House Boutique Hotel , and Hostel Le Banc .

3. Booking.com is banned in Turkey

If you use booking.com to book your accommodation, I highly recommend doing so before you land in the country since it’s banned in Turkey.

Although you can still access the website to manage your bookings, you won’t be able to book a Turkish hotel while you’re in Turkey.

If you want to book hotels on booking.com while you’re in Turkey, I recommend getting a VPN. Alternatively, you can download the Opera browser on your phone and use their free integrated VPN.

4. Stay outside of Sultanahmet if you want a quiet night’s sleep

Sultanahmet is the most popular place to stay in Istanbul since this is where all the main tourist attractions are located.

But what you probably don’t know is that it can be very loud at night and also quite expensive compared to other neighborhoods.

I learned this the hard way during my recent trip to Istanbul. The hotel I initially stayed at was located along a street flanked by rows of restaurants that kept playing music until 2 a.m!

If you absolutely want to stay in Sultanahmet, Camelot Apartment is located on a rather quiet street, not too far from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Otherwise, I recommend staying in either Beyoglu or Karakoy if you want some peace and quiet.

5. You probably need a visa to visit Turkey

One of the most important travel tips for Istanbul is to check whether you need a visa or not. You can do so on the official website here .

There are also third-party websites where you can apply for a visa but these are usually more expensive as they charge an additional fee on top of the visa fee.

Most travelers, including US citizens, need to apply for an e-visa. The visa is valid for a period of 30 to 90 days, depending on your nationality.

UK citizens, for example, are exempt from a visa while others can get a visa for free.

When applying for an e-visa on the official website , click on “new application” and then select your country.

The cost of the e-visa and duration of stay will depend on the country you’re from.

After completing the application process, it can take a few minutes up to 24 hours before the visa is sent by email.

6. When to visit Istanbul

The best time to visit Istanbul will depend on what you want out of your trip. Below is a quick overview of the different seasons and what to expect for each.

Spring :  April to May – Mild temperature, fewer crowds, and cheaper prices. The annual tulip festival takes place in April.

Summer : June to August – Very hot and humid with temperatures rising above 30 degrees Celsius. Huge crowds, hotel and tour prices are much higher.

Fall/autumn : September to November – The temperature starts to drop, fewer crowds, and cheaper hotel rates.

Winter : December to March – Cold weather with the occasional snowfall but it’s considerably less cold than other European destinations.

Istanbul Travel Tips to skip the crowds

7. buy the istanbul museum pass.

The Istanbul Museum Pass gives you access to 10 museums in Istanbul like the Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene, Istanbul Archeological museum, and more.

The pass is valid for 5 consecutive days and is perfect for those who want to visit a lot of museums, and at the same time, skip the long ticket lines.

Another option is to buy an Istanbul E-Pass which includes skip-the-line tickets and guided tours for over 40 attractions in Istanbul. The pass is available for 2, 3, 5, or 7 days and is perfect for those who want to see as many attractions as possible while saving money.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE ISTANBUL E-PASS

Note : I only recommend buying the museum pass under certain circumstances. For instance, if you’re planning to visit 5 museums and the total cost of the individual tickets exceeds the cost of the museum pass, then it makes more sense to get the museum pass.

Otherwise, if you’re visiting one or two museums only, you’re better off buying individual tickets. Just remember that the pass can only be used once at each attraction.

8. Buy attraction tickets online

For those who don’t plan to purchase the Istanbul Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass but still want to avoid the long ticket lines, then I recommend booking your attraction tickets online.

You can book tickets to most museums and attractions on the Government website here .

9. Plan your visit outside of the peak season

The peak season in Istanbul, and Turkey in general, is during the summer months of June to August and thus attracts hordes of tourists.

Popular attractions like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are absolutely packed with tourists during this time of the year.

If you can only come to Istanbul during the peak season, I highly recommend visiting these attractions early in the morning, at least before 8 a.m to avoid the long lines.

As more tourists visit Istanbul in summer, hotel rates also increase considerably as well as tour prices.

Another thing to note is that there are also more crowds during popular Turkish holidays like Kurban Bayrami and Ramadan Bayrami. The date changes every year so make sure to do a quick Google search before your trip.

So, if you want to avoid the crowds and get cheaper prices, I recommend visiting during the shoulder season – April/May or September/October.

Istanbul Travel Tips for getting around

10. the bus is the best and cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center.

Istanbul has two airports – Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.

One of the best Istanbul tips for tourists, more specifically for those traveling on a budget, is to take the Havaist bus (from Istanbul Airport) or Havabus (from Sabiha Gokcen Airport).

It’s definitely the best and cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center. Plus, the buses are very spacious and comfortable.

The bus operates 24/7 and the journey from the airport to the city center takes on average 1-2 hours, depending on where you’re staying. You can buy tickets online or directly at the airport.

If you don’t want to take the bus or are traveling with a group, then I recommend booking a private airport transfer .

11. Download apps like BiTaksi or Uber

If you don’t want to take the bus, be sure to download ride-sharing apps like Uber or BiTaksi. The fares will be much cheaper than regular taxis, plus you can see beforehand how much the journey costs, thus avoiding getting ripped off.

12. Buy an Istanbul Kart

If you’re planning to get around a lot by public transportation, it’s a good idea to buy an Istanbul kart. It costs about 60 TL and you can top up with the amount needed.

The main reason why I recommend getting the Istanbul kart is that the fares are much cheaper with the card (about 50% cheaper) compared to buying a single ticket. You’ll also save time by not having to buy tickets every single time.

A single fare with the Istanbul Kart costs about 10 TL and the good news is that the fare gets cheaper the more you use the card.

The card can be used by up to 5 people, so there’s no need to buy individual cards for each traveler in your group.

You can buy the Istanbul kart at the airport or at most metro stations in the city center and use it on the bus, metro, tram, and ferry.

Alternatively, you can buy this Istanbul transport card that’s pre-loaded with up to 20 rides. You can either pick it up at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel.

Another thing to know before visiting Istanbul is that you can also use the Istanbul Kart to pay for public toilets around the city and inside the metro stations. The toilet fee is about 2 TL.

13. Traffic in Istanbul can be very hectic

One thing to know about Istanbul is that the traffic can be very hectic. One of the most important travel tips for Istanbul is to avoid taking the bus during peak hours, especially in the afternoon.

For instance, I once took the bus at around 5 p.m from Ortakoy to Beyoglu, and what was supposed to be a 40-minute journey ended up lasting 1.5 hours!

The traffic was so bad that I even had to get off the bus and walk back to my hotel. I’m pretty sure I arrived before the bus!

So do yourself a favor by taking the metro instead if you don’t want to get stuck in traffic during peak hours.

14. Don’t rent a car in Istanbul

As mentioned above, traffic can be very hectic which is why it’s not recommended to rent a car in Istanbul unless you plan to leave the city and start a road trip around the country.

Public transportation in Istanbul is cheap, convenient, and reliable so there’s no point in spending extra cash on car rental.

Istanbul Travel Tips to help you save money

15. there are many free things to do in istanbul.

For those traveling on a budget, you’ll be pleased to know that there are many free things to do in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and all other Istanbul mosques are completely free to visit.

Visiting the Grand Bazaar (which is an experience in itself) or exploring the local neighborhoods like Balat, Fener, and Kadikoy also doesn’t cost a cent.

Make sure to read my guide to 20 things to do in Istanbul for free for more things to do.

Related post: What to do in Istanbul for free

16. Take the local ferry instead of a Bosphorus tour

One of the most popular things to do is to take a Bosphorus tour. It costs anywhere from €10 for a 90-minute sightseeing tour up to €55 for a luxury sunset cruise including dinner .

But if you’re on a budget, you can just hop on the local ferry from Europe to Asia. A single ticket costs only about 10 TL which is a bargain.

One thing to note is that the ferry ride will be shorter but you’ll still be able to admire some of the major landmarks in the city.

17. You can use toilets at the mosques for free

If you need to use the toilet, you can simply go to any mosque and use the toilets there for free. They are generally well-maintained and clean.

Otherwise, you can use the public toilets at the metro stations or around the city for about 2 TL. As mentioned above, you can pay the toilet fee with your Istanbul Kart if you don’t have any small change.

Travel Tips for Istanbul for a safe trip

18. take note of emergency phone numbers.

Travel is sometimes unpredictable which is why it’s always a good idea to have local emergency phone numbers on hand. Below are some of the most important ones:

Police: 155

Ambulance: 112

19. Safety in Istanbul

Istanbul is a relatively safe destination even for solo female travelers. I traveled to Istanbul solo and from my personal experience, I didn’t feel unsafe while walking alone nor did I receive any unwanted attention.

Security is pretty tight with lots of police officers especially around Sultanahmet and Taksim so you don’t have to worry about safety issues.

That said, petty crimes like pickpocketing sometimes happen, so always be aware of your surroundings and avoid flashing any expensive objects.

You should also watch out for scams which brings me to my next tip for visiting Istanbul.

20. Watch out for common scams

Like in most big cities, you need to be aware of common scams that mainly target tourists.

The most popular one is the shoe shiner. The person will pretend to drop his brush and when you pick it up, he will then proceed to shine your shoes which obviously isn’t free.

There’s also another scam where someone will approach you and invite you for a drink. You’ll then end up being forced to pay an exorbitant bill.

In order to prepare yourself before your trip, I recommend reading  this article  about the most common scams in Istanbul.

Other Helpful Istanbul Tips for Tourists

21. buy a local sim card.

The best way to stay connected, especially if you need to use Google Maps to navigate the city, is to buy a local sim card.

There are three major internet providers in Turkey, namely Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom. All three are quite similar but it is said that Turkcell has the best coverage.

I recommend buying your sim card when you get to the city center since those at the airport are slightly more expensive.

I bought a Turkcell tourist sim card which came with 20 GB of data and 200 minutes of local call, valid for 30 days. You just need to bring your passport and it takes only a few minutes for the sim card to be activated.

Alternatively, you can buy a pocket wifi (with unlimited internet valid for 14 days) and have it delivered directly to your hotel. It’s slightly more expensive but can connect up to 10 mobile phones at a time.

Note : If you need internet as soon as you land in Turkey, you can use the airport wifi for free. Just input your local phone number and after receiving a one-time password, you’ll be able to connect to the wifi.

22. There are lots of steep hills

One thing to know about Istanbul is that it’s also known as the “City on the Seven Hills” so don’t be surprised if you come across a lot of steep hills.

The streets along Beyoglu, Balat, and Galata Tower are among the steepest in Istanbul and you’ll be sweating buckets if you’re not dressed in light clothing. Make sure to also carry plenty of water and to wear comfy shoes.

23. Mosque Etiquette

Although you can wear any type of clothes you like in Türkiye, you need to dress more conservatively when visiting the mosques.

For women, this means covering their shoulders and knees and wearing a head scarf. Men, on the other hand, need to wear long pants.

You also need to take off your shoes before entering the mosques.

24. Check prayer times before visiting mosques

One thing to know before visiting Istanbul is that you can only visit the mosques outside of prayer times. Make sure to check the prayer times on this website before visiting.

25. Learn some basic Turkish words

Although most Turkish people can speak English, I always do my best to learn a few basic words and phrases in the local language when traveling to a new country.

A little goes a long way and I can guarantee that you’ll put a smile on the Turkish people’s faces if you at least try to speak a few words in the local language.

Below are some useful Turkish words to know:

Hello : Merhaba

Thank you : Teşekkür ederim or Teşekkürler

Please : Lütfen

Excuse me : Afedersiniz (I’ve also heard people say “pardon”)

How much : Ne kadar

26. Drinking tap water in Istanbul

Although it’s considered safe to drink tap water in Istanbul, most locals might tell you the opposite due to the old rusty pipes and water tanks.

I did drink the tap water during my first few days in Istanbul and while it didn’t make me sick, I didn’t really like the taste.

If you don’t want to drink tap water, I recommend buying the 5 L water bottles. They are much cheaper and you can also reduce your plastic consumption since you won’t need to buy multiple water bottles.

27. Plug type

The plugs and sockets in Turkey are of type C and F with a voltage of 220 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. You’ll probably need a travel adapter if you’re coming from a non-European country.

There you have it – 27 important things to know before traveling to Istanbul. If you have any additional Istanbul travel tips to share, please comment below.

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Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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Istanbul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Leonardo Patrizi | Getty Images

Why Go To Istanbul

Bridging East and West – Europe and Asia – Istanbul possesses a richly complicated heritage. Once the capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires, this city's prestigious history has left us with many monuments to cherish. Plus, it integrates its past and present to create a unique mix of architecture; a glass skyscraper next to a Byzantine church or a colorful bazaar in the shadow of a shopping mall. The natural landscape is also impressive. The Bosphorus, a narrow strait, cuts the city in two and connects the Sea of Marmara in the south to the Black Sea in the north. From the blue waters, visitors will see a skyline of domes, steeples and modern towers.

Although Istanbul looks serene from afar, the internal atmosphere is wonderfully chaotic. Discover the bustling streets and busy bazaar stalls that have characterized the city for hundreds of years. Drivers will jockey for position; shopkeepers will barter in an avalanche of chatter; and you'll be struggling to digest all of the sights, sounds and smells. Speaking of smells – during your exploration, smell and taste the distinctly Turkish treats off the streets, including döner , Istanbul's version of fast food. And when the sun goes down, you'll see that Istanbul sheds some of its conservative facade to reveal a thriving nightlife. At the intersection of civilizations and continents for centuries, Istanbul surprises visitors with its fast pace, its ancient history and its present culture.

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• # 6 in Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024
• # 11 in Best Places to Visit in November 2024
• # 11 in Best Cities in the World to Visit

Best of Istanbul

Best hotels in istanbul.

• # 1 in Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
• # 2 in Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
• # 3 in Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus

Best Things to Do in Istanbul

• # 1 in Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
• # 2 in Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Cami)
• # 3 in Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici)

Popular Tours

Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour

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ISTANBUL BEST : Iconic Landmarks FullDay Private Guided City Tour

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from $ 160.00

Taste of Two Continents: Istanbul Food Tour

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from $ 125.00

Istanbul Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Istanbul are from March to May and between September and November. That's when crowds at the city's attractions are manageable, room rates are average and daytime temperatures generally sit in the 60s and 70s. Peak season – from June to August – sees temps soar into the low 60s to low 80s, and accommodation prices increase to match the demand from incoming tourists. December through February, meanwhile, are the cheapest months to visit, but Istanbul's rainy, snowy and chilly conditions (temps are in the high 30s to high 50s) mean you'll have to don cold weather attire and lug an umbrella during your stay.

Weather in Istanbul

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Politeness is highly regarded here Many U.S. customs are different from those in Turkey. But, this one still applies: Be gracious, even if you don't understand what is going on.

Using Turkish goes a long way  Communicating with the locals can be difficult, although many Turks know at least some English. It is, however, best to try speaking Turkish first. Phrases such as " merhaba " (hello), " hosçakal " (goodbye) and " tesekkür ederim " (thank you) will come in handy.

Kid-friendly? Not so much If you have kids in tow, you might want to vacation elsewhere. Istanbul does not have much for children to do, and they will likely quickly tire of touring Byzantine architecture.

How to Save Money in Istanbul

Pay for items with Turkish lira  Vendors in tourist areas will accept dollars and euros as a form of payment, but you'll generally overpay when using these currencies, so use Turkish lira.

Buy a Museum Pass Istanbul card  Most of the city's museums have entrance fees of 200 to 700 Turkish lira (or about $14 to $25) per person. To save some coin, invest in a Museum Pass Istanbul card , which costs 2250 Turkish lira (about $80) for five days of access to attractions like the Topkapi Palace Museum  and the Istanbul Archaeological Museums .

Travel by ferry for Bosphorus cruises  Bosphorus excursions offered by private companies can cost up to 79 euros (more than $88) per person, so if you want to take in your surroundings from the water without burning a hole in your wallet, use Sehir Hatlari, the city's ferry operator. Tour tickets start at 65 Turkish lira (about $3).

Culture & Customs

Although Turkey is a secular state, the predominant religion is Islam, and travel writers generally characterize the country as conservative. During your stay, you might notice that practicing Muslims pray five times a day. During the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk.

Casual clothing is not unusual in more modern areas like Beyoglu, but women should cover their legs, shoulders and heads in more conservative neighborhoods like Fatih and inside mosques and other religious sites. Also, make sure to bring a scarf if you're visiting these places, though some offer ones to borrow.

In general, it is better and safer to travel accompanied by others. If you venture into the Grand Bazaar , keep a close eye on your belongings, as pickpockets are in no short supply here. And remember to be mindful of your surroundings at all times, especially at popular tourist attractions.

Rather than shaking their heads to say "no," Turks will throw their heads backward slightly and raise their eyebrows accompanied by a "tsk." When shaking hands, never offer your left hand, as it is considered rude and unclean. Also, point the soles of your feet away from others when sitting on the floor; doing otherwise is very offensive.

Turkish is the official language spoken in Turkey, and Turkish humor is a bit different from what you'll encounter in the United States. Extreme sarcasm should be avoided in conversation, as should discussions about political and religious views.

Visitors will also find that smoking is more socially acceptable here. Don't be surprised to see Turks taking frequent cigarette breaks during a meal.

Finally, the official currency here is the Turkish lira (1 Turkish lira is equal to about 4 cents). Some tourist locales will accept dollars or euros as a form of payment, but exchange rates are generally poor, so it's best to use Turkish lira at all times. Turkish lira to dollar rates often fluctuate, so check the latest exchange rate  before you go.

What to Eat

Turkish cuisine can best be described as a fusion of its seven regions (the Mediterranean, Aegean, Marmara, Black Sea, and Central, Southeastern and Eastern Anatolian), each of which has its own culinary identity shaped by its geography and multiethnic nature. In terms of cuisine, Istanbul is a microcosm of the entire country, with many different types of restaurants serving many different dishes.   

Some Istanbul staples include the simple esnaf restaurants, where classic homecooked dishes are made fresh daily and served cafeteria-style for lunch, including everything from meat stews and stuffed vegetable dishes accompanied by buttery rice or bulghur. There are fish restaurants that serve their freshest catch grilled and with a slice of lemon accompanied by a slew of meze (cold appetizers) that are either fish or vegetable based with plenty of olive oil. There are kebab restaurants where different meats are grilled in-house on a hooded charcoal barbecue. There are bakeries making sweet and savory pastries or dough-based specialties like lahmacun and pide (flatbreads with different toppings). There are the classic Istanbul meyhanes (taverns) serving meze and raki , the national licorice-flavored spirit made from the anise plant and mixed with water and ice. When the two liquids make contact, it forms a milky white color, giving the drink its nickname, aslan sütü  (lion's milk).

There are confectionary shops dating to the Ottoman period selling traditional treats such as baklava, lokum (Turkish delight) and akide  sekeri (hard candies with different flavors). Istanbul's street food includes pilafs, stuffed mussels, roasted chestnut or corn, simit (a ring-shaped bread covered in sesame), fish sandwiches, böreks (pastry made of thin layers of dough with different fillings) and dürüm (a wrap with döner – thinly sliced lamb meat from a spit). And then there are the contemporary restaurants (some boasting Michelin stars) that serve reinterpreted Turkish dishes accompanied by wines from the country's thriving boutique vineyards.

Classic Istanbul beverages include the ubiquitous Turkish tea, served hot in a tulip-shaped glass at the end of every meal or as a welcoming offering to guests. Turkish coffee is strong and is also enjoyed at the end of a meal with lokum , but make sure to not drink the grounds at the bottom of the cup. In the winter, there is boza , a drink made of fermented grains and served with cinnamon and leblebi (roasted chickpeas).

For the most authentic experience, avoid the Sultanahmet area. The tourist-heavy neighborhood's restaurants, in general, serve overpriced and mediocre food. Take a short trip on the tram north across the Golden Horn to Beyoglu, where you'll find a mix of simple home cooking, as well as some of the trendiest options in the city.

According to the U.S. State Department, travelers should exercise some caution when visiting Turkey, due to possible terrorist attacks. Tourist sites, major events, transportation hubs and popular locales (like restaurants and nightclubs) are most prone to terrorist attacks. Also, avoid protests, gatherings and demonstrations, and keep tabs on local news. Signing up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , which notifies the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate of your travels, is strongly advised. To learn more about security concerns and safety tips for Turkey, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Istanbul

The best ways to get around Istanbul are the buses and trams, which conveniently cover the touristy areas. But remember, buses don't have maps inside and drivers do not announce stops, so you'll need to remain vigilant and watch where you are going. The metro is also a reliable and cheap means of getting around; however, stops are farther apart and not as well-positioned for seeing the sights. When visiting Sultanahmet and Eminönü, walking between the area's attractions  is doable, but you'll need to rely on another mode of transportation to reach other neighborhoods. Driving is strongly discouraged because of heavy traffic and since road signs are in Turkish and accidents are fairly common. Ferries are also available to get to the Princes' Islands and between the European and Asian sides.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Even though Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia, you can travel freely between the two sides. To enter Turkey, you will need a passport that's valid for six months past your arrival date, as well as a visa. Visas cost $50 and are available on the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs website . The sticker visa (which is placed in your passport along with an official stamp) is valid for 90 days. To stay longer, contact a Turkish embassy or consulate to apply for a residence, work permit or Turkish ID card. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department's website . 

Named for its interior's blue tiles, the  Blue Mosque  is one of the city's most popular mosques to visit.

Explore More of Istanbul

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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27 Best Things to do in Istanbul, Turkey

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: July 24, 2023

Istanbul, Turkey embraces a mixture of European and Asian culture and visitors will sense the contrasts with each turn. If there is one city that can truly claim the title of being the gateway to both Europe and Asia, it’s Istanbul.

To really explore and understand the culture and energy of the city one would need months or even years but we’ve highlighted our favorite things to do in Istanbul from our four different visits. Straddling two continents, Istanbul is a city divided by the narrow waterway known as the Bosphorus.

Table of Contents

Top Things to do in Istanbul, Turkey

During our time in Istanbul, we witnessed young urbanites embracing the modern world while others cling to traditional values of the Byzantium period and the Ottoman Empire. These are all the things to do in Istanbul to make the most of your stay. 

Beautiful Istanbul – Travel Tips

To get to and from the airport, we took TransferExpert.com . Their services were professional and friendly! It was nice to have a sign with our name on it waiting for us when we landed at the hectic airport.

Many of the top things to do in Istanbul are within walking distance. And while exploring the old town, the best way to get around is by walking. From the Old Town to crossing the Galata Bridge, there’s no better way to get around Istanbul.

A great travel tip is to get an Istanbul Museum Pass to skip the line to popular museums like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Harem, Great Palace Mosaics and more popular museums in Istanbul with the guided tour app. Check out this pass here.

A visit to Istanbul will ignite your senses. it is one of the most exciting cities to visit in Europe and these are the best things to do in Istanbul to make the most of your stay.

1. Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and is definitely one of the most popular things to see in Istanbul. It was once a church and a mosque but is now one of the most visited museums in the world. We didn’t go inside on our first trip to Istanbul, but we realized we were missing out so we made sure to go in during our second visit to Istanbul. The interior of Hagia Sophia is really a must-see in Istanbul.

For 916 years it was a church and then following the conquest of Sultan Mehmed, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque and remained so for 482 years. In 1935 it was converted into a museum. IN 2019, Hagia Sophia was just converted back into a mosque but like most mosques, it is open to the public and you can still go inside to see its mosaics, calligraphy, tiles, and the Sultan’s lodge.

Book this entry to Hagio Sophia with a guided tour. Meet your local guide starting with a short history of the Old City. The tour explains the mystery of this important monument both for the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires.

• Opening Hours: April to October: 9am to 7 pm daily November to March – 9am to 6pm. (closed on Mondays)
• Free access to Hagia Sophia with museum pass or 72TL if paying at the entrance.
• Tram stop – Sultanahmet

2. Blue Mosque

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque is Istanbul’s most famous mosque in Istanbul and is definitely one of the top things to do in Istanbul. A visit to the city would not be complete without laying eyes on its beauty.

It’s known by its more common name, The Blue Mosque because of the blue tiles surrounding the walls of its interior. The Blue Mosque is still a functioning mosque but visitors can enter if they follow the rules. Long pants should be worn and women must have their shoulders and heads covered. Located in the old city, it’s the perfect way to start your day before moving on to the other sights nearby.

T his highly-rated tour takes you on a 4-hour introduction to the city of Istanbul. Your licensed professional tour guide will take you to Hagia Sophia Museum, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar, to search for precious handmade carpets, jewelry, leather, and souvenirs.

• Opening Hours: 9 am to 7 pm
• Read our tips for visiting Istanbul’s Blue Mosque. 
• Tram Stop – Sultanahmet

3. Grand Bazaar

One of the best things to do in Istanbul is to get lost in the massive Grand Bazaar. Within walking distance from the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, and Topkapi Palace it’s just a short walk down the street that takes you to the Grand Bazaar. This is one of the most exciting shopping experiences you’ll ever have. There are more than 5,000 shops in the Grand Bazaar covering 60 streets.

The Grand Bazaar was an important trading center dating back to the 15th century. I can only imagine how it once was with traders coming in from Asia and Africa bringing their exotic items for merchants to peruse from Europe. Spending a day losing yourself in the giant labyrinth that houses Mosques, hammams, cafes, and jewelry stalls makes this one of Istanbul’s top attractions.

A great way to see all of the main attractions in the old city is to book this tour starting in the Sultanahmet district at Hagia Sophia. You’ll then discover the Basilica Cistern dating back to the 6th century before venturing into the Grand Bazaar and its 4000 shops that sell carpets, silks, ceramics and more.

Be sure to visit the Spice Market in Istanbul as well. This city was an important stop on the spice route and the Spice Bazaar is not far from the Grand Bazaar.

• Hours: 10 am to 6pm
• Tram Stop – Beyaz?t – Kapal?çar?

4. Süleymaniye mosque

The Süleymaniye mosque stands on the third of the seven hills that overlook the Golden Horn. While the Blue Mosque is the most well-known of Istanbul mosques, the Süleymaniye mosque is one of the most striking in the city skyline. The largest mosque in Istanbul, it was built during the Ottoman empire of the 16th century but the Sultan of Suleyman.

This tour takes you off the beaten path in Istanbul to not only see the Suleymaniye Mosque but you’ll also enjoy the ancient practice of hookah while sampling Turkish pastry called borek before heading over to the Spice Bazaar. This tour also takes you to the Church of St. George.

• 8 am to 9:30pm
• Tram Stop – M2 to Vezneciler

5. Beylerbeyi Palace

Beylerbeyi Palace was the summer residence of the Ottoman Sultans and is a great place to visit in Istanbul to see the lavish lifestyle of the rulers. It has a white marble exterior and an opulent interior filled with art, priceless vases, fountains, and crystal chandeliers.

You can get there by ferry or if you have a hop on hop off boat tour , it is one of the stops. This is a great tour to explore the historic sites along the Bosphorus. It begins at Emirgan where you’ll visit an 18th-century mosque, Emirgan Park, and Sabanci museum. The boat then goes to the Asian side of Istanbul to see the royal pavilions of Kucuksu, then Beylerbeyi Palace, and Beylerbeyi Mosque before making your way to the last stop at a local market at Bsiktas Square before hopping on the tram back to Taksim.

6. Hippodrome of Constantinople

When walking through Istanbul, I couldn’t help but sing the song “Istanbul is not Constantinople.” But as a matter of fact, it was! Constantinople was the capital of the Byzantine empire. Located just a short walk from the Blue Mosque is the Hippodrome of Constantinople. An ancient stadium that held 100,000 people gathering to watch chariot races and horse racing.

The Egyptian obelisk survived the years along with a sculpture of three-headed serpents. Obelisk of Theodosius

Today it stands at the Sultan Ahmet Square and is the historical heart of the old city. A guided tour of the Hippodrome is great if you are a history buff and want to learn more about this fascinating neighborhood.

7. Walls of Constantinople

The Walls of Constantinople were largely intact until the 19th century when they were dismantled. But surprisingly many are still intact. There are many places to see the old city walls as they have been undergoing restoration since the 1980s. The tower in the Wall of Constantinople is one of the best places to see its remains. This Byzantine tour along the Golden Horn takes you on a journey to discover Constantinople before the Ottoman conques t. You’ll walk along the old city walls and gates and discover so much more outside of the Old City of Istanbul.

8. Galata Tower

Across the Galata Bridge crossing the mouth of The Bay of Istanbul you’ll find one of Istanbul’s top attractions, the Galata Tower. It is located on the North Bank of the Golden Horn and you can take tours up it to view the city overlooking the Bosphorus from its observation deck. It has one of Istanbul’s best views of the Bosphorus and is not to be missed.

The Galata Tower offers the best panoramic views of the city, the Bosphorus, and is an excellent vantage point to gaze upon Old Istanbul. Until the 1960’s it was a watchtower for city fires, but today it is open to tourists to walk around its balcony near the top of the 67 meters (220 feet) high tower. Take a walking tour of the Taksim and Galata neighborhoods where you’ll learn of the Galata Tower, Tunnel Square (second oldest metro in the world), and Dervish Lodge as you walk through its bustling markets and shops.

• Opening Hours of Galata Tower: 9 am to 7 pm
• Cost : 35 TL

We stayed in an apartment looking right at this tower and it was breathtaking. This is another amazing apartment with views of the Bosphorus. You can see them both on VRBO.

9. Indulge in Turkish Delight

There’s a great square at the base of the Galata Tower where you can enjoy some Turkish Delight while people watching on the terrace. But you can pick up Turkish Delight anywhere in Istanbul. Make sure to give it a try. Dave hates it, but I love it. However, I am a fan of Big Turk chocolate bars here in Canada.

10. Belly Dancing and Whirling Dervishes

The Galata Tower itself is 9 stories high with a restaurant café and nightclub where you can watch a Turkish show complete with Belly dancing and whirling Dervishes. If you want to take in an Istanbul show , there is nothing cooler than seeing talented Belly Dancers and Whirling Dervish do their thing.

The 1001 Turkish Nights Performance will pick you up at your hotel where you’ll drive along the Bosphorus to your dinner and show. You’ll enjoy music, a Fasil orchestra and belly dancing. It includes your choice of wine, gin, vodka, Raki or beer.

The Istanbul City Pass gives entry to 30 attractions including a whirling dervish show in Hodjapasha Hamam

11. Istiklal street

Visited by nearly 3 million people daily, Istiklal Street is the beating heart of the city of Istanbul. This 1.4 km long pedestrian walkway houses everything from cinemas to nightclubs and boutiques to cafés. If you are looking for places to visit in Istanbul at night, this is a great place to start.

It’s also on Istiklal Street that we tried our first Turkish Delight treats and bought some much-needed medication from the pharmacies. If you don’t feel like walking, you can take the historic tram all the way to Taksim Square to view the monument of the republic.

• In a Hurry? Book this tour of Istanbul. This private walking tour can be tailor made to see the top Istanbul attractions ranging from 1 to 3 days.

12. Topkapi Palace

One of the most iconic places to visit in Istanbul. A tour of Topkapi Palace is a must. It is not only filled with history, it is also beautiful. Go inside to view the beautiful mosaic tiles and ornate treasures from the Ottoman Empire. The Topkapi Palace Museum has a collection of books in its library outlining the history and culture of life here from 1478 to 1856. Get a skip the line ticket that includes a guided tour of the Audience Hall, High Court, Historical Kitchens, and The Treasury.

The administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, was also home to the Ottoman Sultans making this lavish palace is a fascinating tour through time. Make sure to visit the Harem, home to the palace concubines. It was also the living quarters of the Ottoman sultans so it is must visit addition to the basic entry fee.

13. Archaeological Museum

This tour offers Skip the ticket lines to enter the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern with local host. The passes are good for three days so you can choose to visit all 3 museums in 1 day, or the three of them separately on different days. Once inside the museum, your local host will give you tips on how to discover the museums in the best way.

• Opening Hours: Wednesday-Monday: 9 am to 7pm (from November to march 9 am to 5pm) Closed on Tuesdays.
• Cost : 72 TL (note this does not include the Harem) To book the Harem, it is another 42 TL)

14. Eat with the Locals

Eating in Istanbul is a feast for the senses and to truly appreciate the cuisine, you must join a family for an authentic local experience. It starts by meeting a family and learning about their way of life. And then the feast begins with an array of small dishes known as mezze. Mezze platters include pita bread with hummus, cacik, and tabbouleh salad. Main dishes include kebabs and believe it or not pizza! The feast ends with Turkish delight and sweet tea.

15. Visit a Local Family

You can book many dining experiences in Istanbul and the best way is to spend time with a local family. We joined two different local tours in Istanbul, was with the “Other Tour” Where we met our guide’s mom and we also booked one through Get Your Guide where we had a private guide take us to see Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque at night.

Insider Istanbul Tip:

In Istanbul, you will often meet friendly people that invite you for dinner. The people of Istanbul are very friendly and even if you don’t go to their home, you will often find yourself sitting down for tea and becoming fast friends. To really experience Turkish food and culture book this top rated tour that takes you on a food and culture tour of Istanbul food followed with dinner at a local family’s home.

16. Ortakoy – Where to go in Istanbul for Nightlife

One of the city’s best places for nightlife is in the Ortakoy neighborhood. Our guide told us that Madonna and other famous celebrities love to party in Ortakoy. Once a fishing village, this district is now the area for upmarket chic looking for a place to party. The waterfront is filled with bars and clubs and this is where the hip young professionals of the city hang out.

Istanbul is home to both traditional and modern ways of life and the contrast between the two cities is immense. To really experience Istanbul you must spend some time in Ortakoy. Dave and I clearly didn’t hang out here late into the night as we’re neither hip nor young, but we did take a stroll through the city and had a glass of wine!

17. Ortakoy Mosque

Ortakoy Mosque is another beautiful mosque in Istanbul that is worth a visit. Located directly on the Bosphorus it can be reached by ferry. Visiting this area gives you a feel for local life in Istanbul. There are many restaurants and coffee shops around the mosque that you can sit back and relax in after visiting. Make sure to dress appropriately when visiting any mosque in Istanbul.

18 Sip Turkish Coffee

If there is one thing that we wanted to try in Turkey, it was Turkish Coffee. We’d had it all over the world, but to have it in its country of origin was beyond heavenly. It takes great preparation to make this tiny little cup of caffeine, but the effort is worth it as it’s one of the most delicious and rich blends of coffee you will ever have.

Hot tip : Don’t drink it to the last drop though, the bottom of the cup is filled with coffee grinds. (the secret ingredient perhaps?) Want to explore more food and culture? Istanbul Food and Culture Tour takes you on a walking tour through 2 Continents as you explore Turkish food and culture.

19. Walk Across the Galata Bridge

It was easy for us to do our daily walk across the Galata Bridge during our first visit to Istanbul. We were staying right near it in an apartment rental. This is a beautiful place to take in the best Istanbul view of the Blue Mosque, views of the Bosphorus, and the Golden Horn. Keep an eye out for rows of friendly fishermen who are happy to chat as families stroll across taking in the views. It’s a great spot for cheap eats, especially a delicious fish sandwich.

20. Cruise the Bosphorus

You must visit the Asian side of the city when visiting Istanbul! A cruise of the Bosphorus offers beautiful views of the Istanbul skyline including the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia and different views of the Bosphorus from the other side. We took a yacht cruise to take in the sights, and this cruise takes you on a 2.5-hour boat cruise of the Bosphorus Strait takes you passed the city’s landmarks and monuments including the Galata Tower and the Dolmabahçe Palace, both the Asian and European Coasts and a stop at the 19th-century Küçüksu Palace which was the hunting lodge of the Ottoman Empire.

Keep an eye out for the Maiden’s Tower. Also known as Leander’s Tower, the Maiden’s Tower stands on a small island in the Bosphorus. A structure has been on this island since the 3rd century BC, but this current tower dates back to the 1700s. Visitors can stop here to enjoy some Turkish food while taking in views of the city and perusing its museum.

If you are looking for things to do in Istanbul at night, book this Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Entertainment for an evening view of the city of Istanbul and a fun Turkish experience.

21. Take the Local Commuter Ferry

If a cruise isn’t in the cards and you are looking for a more affordable option, hop on the commuter ferry for the chance to pop over to the Asia side of Istanbul. How often can you visit two continents in a matter of minutes and not even have to go through customs?

We popped over to Asian Istanbul after a scenic cruise checking out the shores of both North and South. A good stop near the port is Kanlica, famous for its thick yogurt with honey.

22. Basilica Cistern

Head underground to tour the Basilica Cistern. The Basilica cistern is only one of the city’s cisterns, there are hundreds of cisterns under Istanbul but it is the largest. Cisterns were used to store water but today you can tour it. Located just a short walk from Hagia Sofia, there are art exhibits, a fortress of columns, and two medusa heads acting as a base. What is up with that?

23. Play a Game of Backgammon

When strolling through the city, you’ll see many older gentlemen playing games. The game of choice is Backgammon and you must give it a try. Look for a local café offering boards to use, sit down and order a coffee or tea and play until your heart’s content. This popular game dates back 5,000 years in the Persian empire and is going strong today in the city of Istanbul.

• If you need someone to play Backgammon with This Tour it includes an evening out in their tours.

24. Smoke a Hookah

Also known as Shisha or waterpipe, Hookah lounges are very popular in the city. Hookahs are flavored tobacco smoked through a water pipe. It became popular in Turkey in the 17th century and was a status symbol for those in the city. Dave and I are ardent non-smokers, but to visit Istanbul without giving a Hookah a try would be criminal.

25. Visit a Turkish Bath

You cannot visit Istanbul without experiencing the weirdness and wackiness of a Turkish Bath, also known as a traditional hammam . Be prepared to strip down to your birthday suit and have strangers vigorously bathe and massage your entire body after a hot steam bath. It can be painful, strange, and heavenly all at once. You may or may not like it, but I can tell you one thing for sure, you will never forget it.

If you don’t want to take a chance of a shady Turkish bath, book this Turkish Bath Experience that some call one of the city’s best. The historical Çemberlita? Hamam with a traditional Turkish bath including a scrub and a massage. Once you finish you can spend as long as you like in the Hammam.

26. Istanbul Modern

If you are spending some time in Istanbul, you may want to check out the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (aka Istanbul Modern). It has become a very popular museum in Turkey showcasing modern art through permanent and temporary displays from the 20th century to today. There is a cinema, cafe and a library with more than 11,500 books.

27. Dolmabahce Palace

One of Istanbul’s most beautiful historic sites is Dolmabahce Palace. It was Turkey’s first European-style palace and they went all out. It is a large palace on the water filled with gold and crystal. It is certainly an over-the-top palace, but that was for a reason. It was built to hide the fact that the Ottoman Empire was falling. Once built, it was newer than Topkapi Palace so the Sultan moved to enjoy its more modern luxuries.

This guided tour takes you through the largest palace of the Ottoman Empire where you’ll learn of the differences between Dolmabahçe and Topkapi Palaces. Make sure to look up to see its ornate ceilings with Baccarat and Bohemian chandeliers including the biggest Bohemian chandelier on the planet.

How to Get Around Istanbul

Istanbul is a busy and vibrant city and the best way to get around is by tram. It’s affordable, fast, and easy. We hopped on the tram to take us everywhere from the old city to Taksim Square, took Ubers, and booked Transfer Expert from the airport. But in our opinion, the best way to discover Istanbul is on foot. Lose yourself in Sultanahmet, explore the streets of Constantinople, and get lost in the Grand Bazaar.

Where to Stay in Istanbul

There are many great places for accommodation in Istanbul. These are three places that we stayed, but we also stayed in a few apartment rentals in Istanbul as well.

• Swissotel The Bosphorus – This five-star luxury hotel right is in the centre of Istanbul on the European banks of the Bosphorus. It is a perfect location for exploring Istanbul with a rooftop pool and free WiFi. Check out Availability & Prices at Booking.com / Trip Advisor
• Sura Hagia Sophia – Located in Sultanahmet, this 5-star hotel is perfectly situated to all the main attractions. The hotel also offers a well-designed garden with an attractive pool area and Free Happy Hour. Check out Availability & Prices Booking.com / Trip Advisor
• Elite World Europe Hotel – Situated close to the airport, this newly-opened hotel offers luxury at budget prices. Perfect for a layover or to avoid Istanbul traffic if you have a flight leaving in the early morning hours. Check out Availability & Prices Booking.com / Trip Advisor

And these are all the things to do in Istanbul that we recommend. It is one of the most exciting cities in the world and if you get a chance to go, be sure to spend at least a week exploring both the old and new cities. There are so many things to do in Istanbul, you will want to go back again and again.

What did we miss? We have visited Istanbul three times and still, I know there is so much more there, I’m sure you have some favorite things to do in Istanbul that we didn’t get a chance to do ourselves.

Plan Your Next Trip to Turkey With These Resources

• The Blue Mosque of Istanbul and tips for Entry

13 Facts About Turkey That Will Surprise You

• Amazing Historical Sites In the World – That We’ve Seen
• Turkey Travel Guide
• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon: How to Choose the Right Company

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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53 thoughts on “27 Best Things to do in Istanbul, Turkey”

Thank you very much from Dhaka-Bangladesh for your clear guide lines regarding a very nice city like Istanbul. I will visit Istanbul with my wife and three children and i will try to stay ten days both of the Asian and European sides with my family.

You must go back and visit Fener and Balat. It’s the most colorful part of Istanbul and an absolute highlight for me. I love Turkey!

Very informative have been to Turkey however, I haven’t been to Istanbul. I am going to save this article so I can refer to it in my future travels to Turkey.

I really love Istanbul, thank you very much

A very unique post I must say. I like your Image and your presentation. Thank you for sharing this with us.

Very informative post, really liked this post… Thanks for sharing.

I just want to say thanks for your wonderful post, it images a lot of knowledge and information that I needed right now. Thank you for sharing this great post.

Thanks for the great article, I want to learn the Turkish language!

This is a great list with amazing tips to do in Istanbul. Thanks for sharing it.

love Istanbul..amazing city…amazing people..historic… and guys must try “Baklava”

The sea view is really great all over Istanbul. Historical buildings, mosques and streets are really beautiful. I would recommend anyone to see it.

Sounds interesting! Did you get massages there? Where would you recommend if so? I love to travel and experience different massages! ?

That’s a great post ! thanks a lot.

What a great piece of research, there is one issue that you have not addressed the internet issue. Between purchasing a Pocket WiFi and renting a pocket WiFi which one is the best. Am considering to renting a Pocket WiFi from rent n Connect

Though I have never been to Istanbul, it is one of my top favorite destinations to explore, your post introduces some of the best things, and it is really interesting to learn more about the city through your post.

The Ayasofia offers beautiful views of the city. It is located just North of the Golden Horn in the Galata Quarter. Thanks for share

Thanks for taking the time to write this.

It was very helpful and informative.

I visited Istanbul last summer July 2018 and it wasss the best week of my life even tho I didn’t tour it very well and I didn’t see a lot of places but still the best vacation ever I really wanna go back there this summer inchallah

The Galata Tower offers beautiful views of the city. It is located just North of the Golden Horn in the Galata Quarter. Thanks for share

Wooow just woow!!!!! What a beautiful city is turkey! I am feeling like I really want to be there once. Wish to have so much funs, to explore new things and new place, but also I just want to feel Euro-asian culture over there. May God help me to make my dreams real one day, hope that it will be the most wonderful time in my entire life.

What a great blog- very good read.

Thanks for all the tips too!

Thanks, looking forward to being there over New Year’s!

Wow! Istanbul is so interesting! Would love to sip the Turkish tea. I’m sure the experience of being in Istanbul is very transforming, very different. There is so much to absorb.

Great post. There is so much history in Istanbul. Ankur does not like history and hence, we figured out stuff that non-history loving people can do in Istanbul.

Amazing city!

Thanks for your review of great Istanbul

The list is great. Those who go to Istanbul can visit Süleymaniye Mosque. I recommend dry bean foods here.

I think every human being should visit The Most Visited Historical and Popüler Places in ?stanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful city

there are alot of things to do in istanbul

Istanbul is really the most wonderful place to visit, I heard lot about Turkish baths, and it clears out many ailments, though we have many Hamam centers in our country that do not reproduce same benefits as the real ones. The city really wonderful with a blend of European and Asian culture, I appreciate your efforts for putting many things in the post. Pictures are really inspiring, the city is the must visit destination in 2018.

I have not visited Istanbul. But recently, I have done an article on top tourist attractions in Istanbul based on online research. I just feel like it has a wonderful combination of everything a tourist can ask for. I think it is well prepared to give every of its visitor the best experience….

Wow! Istanbul is so interesting! Would love to sip the Turkish tea.Your photos of the Blue Mosque are spectacular.

Love this post and love Istanbul!! It’s one of my favorite places in the world and this brought back such beautiful memories. The East and West blend truly makes the city so special. Miss the yummy Turkish delights. And yes, the Hamam was definitely a memorable experience. Haha! 😉

Great post. There is so much history in Istanbul. Ankur does not like history and hence, we figured out stuff that non-history loving people can do in Istanbul. Check out our post… http://www.tickingthebucketlist.com/2014/07/istanbul-beyond-monuments.html

Nice list but you left off the favorite place we visited in Istanbul- Basilica Cistern. Although I didn’t like the taste, another interesting thing is to try a fish sandwich from one of the boats in Eminonu.

Oh, I’m heading there in February (only four four days), and this post just fueled my excitement! Also, you’re right about the hamams… I did one in Morocco and I definitely won’t ever forget that experience. Although, as strange as it was, I’m contemplating giving it a go again in Turkey!

Your photos of the Blue Mosque are spectacular. Istanbul is one of those places that I’ve been meaning to visit for years but I just haven’t got round to it yet!

Great timing on this post. I’m heading to Istanbul in May and I cannot wait to experience these things for myself. Your photos are so vivid and vibrant! It just adds fuel to the fire of anticipation for the trip 🙂 thx & cheers!!

Wow! Istanbul is so interesting! Would love to sip the Turkish tea. I’m sure the experience of being in Istanbul is very transforming, very different. There is so much to absorb.

Istanbul is one of my favorite cities – Been there 8 times and I have never enough 🙂 Beeing and art fan, I like islamic art museum and one of the new, recently discovered things in Istanbul are the rainbow stair – really cool and a very popular thing around locals, who come there just to take a selfie 🙂

Beautiful photos! Istanbul is at the top of my travel wishlist and I’m hoping to finally visit this year!

Do not forget to add your visit to Turkey in the Aegean! There are wonderful places to see in Izmir and its surroundings.

I love all your photos so much. Istanbul has definitely been on my travel list for a little while now and your post just added fuel to my wanderlust fire.

So glad that we could fuel the fire. You are going to love Istanbul

Great post. There is so much history in Istanbul. Ankur does not like history and hence, we figured out stuff that non-history loving people can do in Istanbul

Thanks for your review of great Istanbul. But a correction is much needed on the Turkish coffee item of your list. The photo shows “demlik”s, which we brew tea in Turkish style. We prepare Turkish coffee in a different traditional way. But without a doubt, this photo resembles Istanbul. Thanks from an Istanbulian 🙂

Thanks, That was my fault, we had a photo of the coffee in a cup that we drank and I wanted something more artistic. I asked Dave if he had anything else and I chose this. My bad. I may put the coffee back in.

No problem 🙂 keep up the good work!

Thanks, and I’ll be putting up another photo today 🙂

Thank you for this great article about istanbul. Love it and share it.

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The Best Hotels in Istanbul

By Laura Fowler and Zahra Surya Darma

Astride the glittering Bosphorus, Istanbul is the hotspot where worlds, cultures, religions, and empires collide. A unique fusion of East and West, ancient and modern, grit and grandeur. Old bohemian neighborhoods thrum with new-wave chefs and contemporary artists. Exquisitely restored Ottoman palaces and mansions now house an abundance of top-drawer hotels—some all faded grandeur from a former heyday, others highly polished with next-level spas and rooftop pool terraces, where sundowner DJ sets float over the call of the muezzin from minarets haloed at golden hour. For the latest spots worthy of a stay, consult Traveler 's edit of the best hotels in Istanbul.

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Peninsula Istanbul Arrow

A 2024 Hot List hotel

Life in this city revolves around the Bosphorus, so naturally the hotel scene does too. Already, the Peninsula in the three-year-old mixed-use Galataport cruise terminal has become one of Istanbul’s hot spots, thanks to the rooftop restaurant Gallada, overseen by Fatih Tutak— Turkey’s only chef with two Michelin stars. Architect Zeynep Fadıllıoğlu has transformed four adjoining buildings into a sleek mash-up of past and present: the massive Bauhaus-era Lobby restaurant was once the port’s passenger terminal, while a newly constructed wing is home to large light-filled suites overlooking the river. Each of the 177 rooms is filled with the usual hallmarks and comforts of a Peninsula—monochrome palettes, thick Tai Ping carpets, and state-of-the-art technology—but it’s the spa where the brand’s ethos shines brightest. There’s an 82-foot-long indoor swimming pool as well as eight treatment rooms and a gorgeous sauna. This is Istanbul, however, which means the spa reaches its pinnacle with a purpose-built hammam—a shimmering, marble-lined space to rival the most established baths in the city. — Lale Arikoglu

Çırağan Palace Kempinski Arrow

A 2024 Gold List hotel

There are certain hotels that look like they have been lifted straight from a film set, and this one, with its vast, marble-floored lobby, regal palm trees and flawlessly uniformed bellhops, has a serious Wes Anderson feel. Originally built by a 17th-century sultan, the Çirağan Palace Kempinski is an Ottoman-era imperial palace overlooking the glistening Bosphorus. Weave through winding corridors to delve into rooms complete with four-poster beds, tulip-patterned headboards, velvet armchairs, marble bathrooms and red-and-cream-striped wallpaper. The palace’s other areas are similarly decadent: there’s riverside fine dining with magnificent Turkish dishes at Tuğra, a centuries-old Ottoman arch and the original palace hammam , tucked away behind a large wooden door with floor-to-ceiling marble and ornate carvings. As well as being an imperial residence, the hotel also hosted parliamentary procedures, royal courts and beauty pageants, and even served as a playing field for the Beşiktaş football team. All in all, it’s a blissful, storied escape in the middle of one of the world’s most historical cities. — Lale Arikoglu

Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul Arrow

For timeless elegance

Time swallowed the remnants of an abandoned property only to be resurrected years later in summer 2021 by the same team behind Mandarin Oriental’s Bodrum outpost . Nestled in Beşiktaş, this shorefront urban retreat is surrounded by a protected forest and waterside residences where you’ll find fewer tourists and more locals out on morning jogs—offering a pitch-perfect balance of crowd-free, yet still close enough to the buzzy Old Town.

The 100 rooms, brilliantly concocted by Tihany Design, capture the essence of Istanbul : tulip-shaped tiles adorn the bathrooms, Ottoman çintamani emblems are in the mini bar and tree of life-inspired motifs plaster the walls. Wood coverings accompany the yacht-style interiors, subtly tying in with the ones floating by just outside your room. Eighty of the rooms, which are spread across three floors, have widescreen Bosphorus views, allowing you to sleep in Europe and wake up to Asia with minaret towers graciously standing by iconic landmarks.

The dining scene here is as much for locals as hotel guests, with options ranging from refined Italian to Asian-Italian fusion, and Cantonese cuisine joining later in mid-2023—all of which come with shorefront seats on the terrace where the lucky ones can spot dolphins swim by. The terrace also houses two pools, with the third one in the spa and wellness center below ground. Speaking of the spa, there are 14 treatment rooms including head-to-toe marbled hammams. The masseuses for your deep-tissues were trained from Turkey and Indonesia and the facials feature products from Barbara Sturm. There’s also a gym studio with enclosed yoga, cycle, and reformer pilates spaces.

Six Senses Kocatas Mansions, Istanbul Arrow

For the super-spa treatment

Sitting pretty beside the Bosphorus, Six Senses’ Istanbul outpost has been created from two refurbished Ottoman mansions in the leafy, prosperous Sariyer neighborhood, a private boat ride from the centre. It’s deliciously elegant: creamy as lor cheese, inside and out. Vast windows let in beams of light, illuminating the soaring spaces of pale marble, delicately paneled walls and intricate cornicing, and allow Bosphorus views from the big brass beds in the best of the 45 rooms and suites. The sprawling spa opened late last year on a hill above the hotel, and has sensational views across the strait. Appropriately, treatments include East-meets-West options such as the traditional hammam (a full-on scrub down from a local therapist) and the Alchemy Bar workshop (making your own products using organic ingredients from the garden). Indeed, Istanbul’s unique east-west offerings are in evidence everywhere, from the ingredients in the two restaurants (pan-Asian and Italian) in colorful dishes artfully presented, the cultural experiences recommended by insiders, and the community-focused initiatives run by the hotel’s Earth Lab, which runs educational eco workshops for guests.

Soho House Istanbul Arrow

For groovy grandeur

A 19th-century Italianate palazzo-turned-US Consulate lends itself perfectly to the Soho House aesthetic. When it opened, Soho House Istanbul was the group’s most ambitious yet, and for many, it’s still the most beautiful, with all the original detail preserved: painted and paneled-oak walls, frescoed and embellished ceilings, intricate Art Nouveau ironwork, and marble staircases the color of tobacco. It’s an altogether grand, grown-up backdrop for the group’s clubby decor—midcentury furniture, armchairs in leather, velvet and cane— mixed up with elements from the locale: antique Turkish rugs, and hammams in the spa. Up top, the palazzo sprouts a green crop of trees offering sun-dappled shade over Apheleia Terrace, its brand-new rooftop restaurant, where Mykonos chef Athinagoras Kostakis has devised a menu of punchy Mediterranean mezzes with a Mexican twist. Fittingly it’s bang in Beyoğlu, the bohemian neighborhood where Orhan Pamuk set his novels, vibrant with restaurants and bars, independent galleries and boutiques.

Sumahan on the Water Arrow

For an architectural fix

In this city of a thousand palace hotels, Sumahan is a fresh take on a luxury stay: a strongly contemporary architectural reimagining of an 1820s waterfront distillery, which once turned bargefuls of figs into suma, the spirit used to make raki. The property has belonged to the same family for generations, and early this century owner Nedret Butler and her husband Mark, both architects , oversaw its transformation into a sophisticated hotel, with some help from their designer daughters. As a result, there’s a personal, homely feel to the place. Thirteen light, lofty rooms and suites (some with private hamam) are pared back—to what feels like relative Scandi parity in this much-embellished city—and named after local neighborhoods, every one with a view of the Bosphorus, where dolphins can be spotted in early summer; in winter, real fires are lit in every room. In the riverside garden, Adirondack chairs are set in the shade of palms and fruit trees and pink oleander.

Pera Palace Hotel Arrow

For jazz-age glamour

Pera Palace is to Istanbul what The Savoy is to London—a grande dame of the Belle Epoque, favored haunt of old Hollywood, royals and literati whose high heels and polished correspondents have clicked, clacked, and Charlestoned across its checkerboard marble floors ever since it opened in 1895. Queen Elizabeth II, Greta Garbo, Jackie Onassis, and Mata Hari have all stayed, along with various emperors, kings, and shahs—and, it goes without saying, Ernest Hemingway . Agatha Christie wrote Murder on the Orient Express in Room 411—and indeed the hotel was built to accommodate passengers of the iconic train at the end of their journey. Rooms are trad, polished, and much-beswagged, with views of the Golden Horn or of Pera, once known as Little Europe. Afternoon tea in the sugar-pink patisserie is more English than the Savoy itself.

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet Arrow

For a historic stay

The Four Seasons has not one but two palatial properties in Istanbul , on either side of the Golden Horn. Take your pick—both are glorious, their settings knock-out. Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, created out of an Ottoman Palace, does breezy waterside glam to a T, and in summer, it’s hard to imagine a lovelier place to be than its terrace, all red and white striped cabanas between the blues of pool and sea. Over in Istanbul’s ancient heart, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet has a weightier romance about it. The historic building was once a prison which housed the dissident literati in the Ottoman era; now highly polished and deeply luxurious, its arresting facade painted a happy yellow, it’s hard to imagine ever wanting to escape. Modern Anatolian dishes are beautifully presented in the jasmine-scented courtyard garden. Rooms are generous; kilims, neoclassical furniture, and woven Turkish textiles replace the usual 4S creamy-classic palette. Its neighbors are the Blue Mosque , Topkapi Palace , and Hagia Sophia, whose minarets and domes tower over the hotel as though keeping a saintly eye on the incumbents.

Raffles Istanbul Arrow

For contemporary luxury

What’s this? A five-star Istanbul hotel with not a jot of faded Ottoman splendor to be seen… Yet Raffles is Istanbul through and through—a new moneyed side to the city that’s all gilt glass and Gucci, set as it is within the Zorlu Center (a sort of Dubai -does-Westfield on a giant scale) on a hilltop in Besiktas. Overstated glamour is the name of the game here. Vast crystal chandeliers dominate its sparkly atria and gourmet restaurants. Swimming pools glitter inside and out—in the extensive spa and in Lounge 6, a summertime rooftop pool bar showcasing long-reaching views and the work of the world’s leading cosmetic surgeons. The Long Bar is a wine-red Turkish take on the Singapore original which, as well as the signature Sling, shakes up uniquely Istanbul concoctions (the bourbon, cumin, and baklava Topkapi Palace, for example). There are 181 contemporary rooms and penthouse suites stacked in high-rise towers (all with butler service), the best with views across the city to the strait beyond. Rest assured, the helipad is heated in winter.

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Home > Istanbul To Ankara Train Guide – Includes A Pros & Cons List

Istanbul To Ankara Train Guide – Includes A Pros & Cons List

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Here is your guide on the Istanbul to Ankara train. We’ve covered what you need to know, including costs and a pros & cons list to help you decide if the Ankara to Istanbul train suits you.

Istanbul is a fantastic city , and it gives you an overview of the culture and history of Turkey. However, it might be that you want to take your exploration further and travel to other parts of the country. Great choice!

Most people think that Istanbul is the capital of Turkey, but that’s not true; it’s actually Ankara.

The capital city, Ankara, is a beautiful place to visit . You’ll learn more about the country’s culture and history while trying delicious local Turkish cuisine , checking out fantastic natural sights, and enjoying modern-day fun, such as shopping and entertainment.

So, what are your transportation options if you’re in Istanbul and want to get to Ankara ? There are four – drive, go by bus, go by plane, or take the train.

Of course, the problem with driving or going by bus is that you’re likely to be stuck in traffic at some point, especially when you’re trying to get out of Istanbul and as you near Ankara. It could take a good hour or more for you to even leave Istanbul! The driving time is under 5 hours, so it’s a sizeable journey.

Therefore, the most sensible options are to take a domestic flight or go by train. Let’s explore the train option a little.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

About The Train From Istanbul To Ankara

The train from Istanbul to Ankara is direct and covers 532km. The journey takes 4-5 hours, depending on the service you choose; however, one sleeper train takes almost 8 hours and leaves late at night. There are around 15 services between the two cities every day .

The service is operated by TCDD, which is responsible for the train network in Turkey, and there are two different types of trains – YHT (Yüksek Hızlı Treni) and Ankara Express. The Ankara Express is a sleeper train, and the rest are high-speed trains.

Most trains leave Istanbul Söğütlüçeşme in the city center or Pendik, which is just on the outskirts, and arrive at Ankara Gar, in the center of the city. Along the way, most trains stop at Sincan, Polatlı, Eskişehir, Bozüyük, Arifiye, İzmit, and Gebze.

It’s vital that you arrive at the station around 20-30 minutes before departure as you will go through luggage and ticket check before you board the train.

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Istanbul to ankara train ticket options.

Your ticket price depends on which ‘class’ you choose, either standard or business. A standard ticket is around 250TL one way (at the time of publishing).

You can purchase your tickets on the TCDD website or pay in person at the train station. However, these trains book up quite quickly, so it’s best to do it as far in advance as possible. Flexible tickets are available, allowing you to change your date up to three times, so if you’re not too sure when you’re traveling and want to secure your ticket, this is a good choice.

Trains from Istanbul leave at the following times:

• 23.13 – Sleeper train, which takes almost 8 hours before arrival in Ankara

How To Get To The Train Stations

Söğütlüçeşme is on the Asian side of Istanbul , so if you’re already on the Asian side, you take a taxi or the bus to the train station, and this should be relatively easy.

However, if you’re on the European side, you’ll need to take the Marmaray Metro service or a taxi to cross over the Bosphorus. You could also take a ferry and then get a cab to Söğütlüçeşme.

If your train leaves from Pendik, you’ll need to take either the Metro and Marmaray or a taxi, which will take around half an hour by road, depending on traffic. Bear in mind that Pendik is also on the Asian side.

The Metro is the easiest way. You should take a Metro to Yenikapi, which can be reached on any Metro line. From there, change to the Marmaray service, which goes straight to Pendik station.

Once you arrive in Ankara Gar, the station is right in the heart of the city.

Ankara To Istanbul Train Vs. Plane Pros & Cons

You might be wondering whether taking a train is worthwhile and whether you should take a domestic flight. It’s a personal choice. For sure, a plane is faster, but getting to the airport in Istanbul and going through check-in and security also takes time.

Let’s check out the pros and cons.

• Time saved: a direct flight between Istanbul and Ankara takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes. You can fly from either Istanbul Airport on the European side or Sabiha Gokcen on the Asian side
• Book ahead to get a deal: both Pegasus and Turkish Airlines operate services at reasonable prices.  Flight prices vary, so you may be able to find a flight cheaper than a train if you book early enough
• Airport chaos: getting to and from the airport can be difficult and time-consuming
• No scenery on the plane: you’ll miss the amazing scenery that you’ll see on the train
• Last-minute costs: flight prices can rise dramatically, so a train may be cheaper
• Pesky security: you’ll need to go through check-in and airport security, which can be time-consuming

How much is the Istanbul to Ankara train?

The cost of the Istanbul to Ankara train ticket can vary depending on the class of service and type of train. It is recommended to check with the train operator for the most up-to-date pricing.

How long does it take on the train from Ankara to Istanbul?

The duration of the train journey from Ankara to Istanbul can vary depending on the type of train and the specific route taken. Generally, it takes around 4 to 6 hours.

What is the distance from Istanbul to Ankara?

The approximate distance between Istanbul and Ankara is around 450 kilometers (280 miles).

How to get from Istanbul to Ankara the cheapest?

Traveling by bus is usually the cheapest option to get from Istanbul to Ankara. There are several bus companies offering affordable fares for this route.

Is it worth seeing Istanbul and Ankara?

Both Istanbul and Ankara have unique cultural and historical attractions. Istanbul is famous for its historical sites and vibrant atmosphere, while Ankara is known for its modernity and governmental institutions. It is worth visiting both cities to experience their distinct characteristics.

How long does it take to drive from Istanbul to Ankara?

The driving time from Istanbul to Ankara can vary depending on traffic conditions and the route taken. Typically, it takes around 4 to 5 hours to drive between the two cities.

Best way to travel from Istanbul to Ankara with kids?

Traveling by high-speed train or bus can be a comfortable and convenient option for families with kids . It allows for a quicker journey and provides onboard facilities.

How many bullet train stops are there from Istanbul to Ankara?

The number of stops on the Istanbul to Ankara bullet train route can vary depending on the specific train service. High-speed trains usually have limited stops, making the journey faster.

How to get from Ankara to Istanbul the quickest?

The quickest way to travel from Ankara to Istanbul is by taking a high-speed train or a domestic flight. Both options offer faster travel times compared to buses or regular trains.

Is the Istanbul to Ankara train clean and safe?

Yes, trains in Turkey are generally clean and safe. The Turkish State Railways (TCDD) operates the high-speed train service between Istanbul and Ankara, ensuring passenger comfort and safety.

What is better, Istanbul or Ankara?

Whether Istanbul or Ankara is better depends on individual preferences and interests. Istanbul offers a rich historical and cultural experience, while Ankara is the country’s capital and known for its modernity and government institutions. Read our guide here to help you decide on Istanbul or Ankara

In the end, whichever transportation option you choose is up to you. Both will get you to Ankara (and back again) comfortably and reasonably priced.

• How To Get From Istanbul To Ankara
• Things To Do In Ankara
• Is Ankara Worth Visiting?
• How To Get From Ankara To Cappadocia
• 70+ Things To Do In Istanbul
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Gazoz Is the Drink of Modern Turkey

Emerging alongside the Turkish nation, gazoz soda has splintered into countless local brands, encapsulating the quintessential flavors and evolving tastes of the country’s diverse regions

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There are a lot of things to drink in Turkey . Damascene merchants started the world’s first public coffeehouse in İstanbul in 1555 using coffee from Yemen. Salep (ground orchid root served with hot milk) is popular during winter. Şalgam (fermented turnip juice) can be found in southern Anatolia and any of the country’s kebab houses. Turkish tea served in gilded tulip glasses makes appearances after every meal. Ayran, a salty yogurt drink, and raki, a spirit made of twice-distilled grapes and aniseed, duke it out as the top contenders for national drink.

All of these beverages have their occasions, but the full breadth of the country’s flavors bubbles up in gazoz, a type of soda that comes in an encyclopedia of variations in different regions across the country, each reflecting local culinary influences . Today, you can step into any cafe or neighborhood grocer to pick up electric blue, highlighter yellow, or fiery orange bottles in flavors like bubble gum, grape, rose hip, banana, honey, kaymak (clotted cream), and many more.

Beyond sheer variety, gazoz evokes Turkey’s place at the crossroads of global culture, coming into the world as the country transitioned from empire to republic in the 20th century. And the drink continues to evolve alongside the culture, adding new flavors to the country’s already inexhaustible bar.

From sweet apricots to bitter almonds, gazoz flavors represent Turkey’s many cuisines

Just as Italian regions boast their own pastas and U.S. cities lay claim to various types of barbecue, a rainbow of gazoz flavors make up a culinary map of Turkey. While there are brands that distribute across the whole country (and a few that export abroad), most are produced and consumed locally, tapping into hometown pride in a country where provenance is extremely important. You’ll find bottles shaped like local landmarks, like that of Beyoğlu Gazozu, shaped like İstanbul’s iconic Galata Tower, and brands named for local slang, like Noriyon Gazoz (essentially What’s Up, Gazoz) in the central Anatolian town of Nevşehir.

Each area uses its own mineral water and local produce to flavor its gazoz. The Mediterranean city of Mersin features blueberry gazoz. Bağlar Gazoz , named after a neighborhood in the Black Sea town of Safranbolu, produces a saffron and ginger soda that honors the city’s association with the crimson spice. Kayısı Kola from the eastern Anatolian city of Malatya, the apricot capital of the world, offers an apricot and basil pick-me-up. Marmaris, along the Turkish Riviera, is famous not only for its beaches but also its vast pine forests, which flavor a namesake Marmaris gazoz .

“We made a gazoz with a mix of bitter and sweet almonds,” says Kadir Ünal, the owner of Datçam in the narrow Datça peninsula, which is celebrated for its almonds. “We knew it would be a loveable mix.” He boasts that locals and tourists choose it over Coca-Cola and even water.

The history of gazoz, a drink for 20th-century Turkey

Long before soda emerged in Turkey, locals were drinking sharbat, a sweet concentrate from flowers or fruit , that originated in Persia; the drink eventually spread to Europe and South Asia , spawning a variety of drinks and desserts with similar names. Europeans added fizz, making bubbly water infused with homemade simple syrups, fruits, and aromatics. The French called it gazeuse, and when Ottoman merchants brought this carbonated version back to Turkey at the end of the 19th century, it became gazoz.

In the early 20th century, the tools needed to make sodas began appearing in the Sirkeci and Karaköy neighborhoods of İstanbul. Various communities, including Greeks and White Russians, began producing their own brands. The city’s 1938 records show four soda factories: Olympos, Bomonti, Kocataş, and Yalova.

On the Turkish coast, the city and region of İzmir , rich in mineral water, quickly became a key soda center as well . The Churchill, a mixed drink of bubbly mineral water, lemon juice, and salt named after the city’s native son Churchill Ahmet , became a calling card for the city and helped popularize the soda category. From there, the gazoz trend caught wind across the country.

“We had a strong culture of sharbats, so drinking something sweet as a treat was already popular,” says Turkish food writer Aylin Öney Tan. “But with gazoz, it became all about the fizz, and each city created their own variation.”

At the same time, Turkey was experiencing dramatic political, legal, and social reforms in an effort to become a secular nation-state. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founding father of the Republic, was so impressed with the healing properties of mineral water from the Anatolian town of Gazlıgöl during the country’s War of Independence that he donated a factory there to the Turkish Red Crescent , who used the plant to bottle soda to fund their humanitarian work.

The beverage paired well with the government’s disposition toward European-style modernity. It also fit with nationalization efforts, since it was often sweetened with local sugar beets, which became the primary source of sugar after the Republic’s foundation. Soda companies spread to the south and east, transported by donkey in places without cars. Gazoz became something of a rallying cry for modern Turkey.

“Wherever there are Turks in the world, there is Uludağ Gazoz,” declared Uludağ , a company that started as Nilüfer soda in the northwestern city of Bursa in 1930. In the south, the mayor of Adana encouraged Suleyman Ayman to call his nascent brand Zaman, Turkish for “time,” because it encapsulated the modern age taking over the city and the larger Cukurova region.

“People were looking for some novelty, something different in their lives, including in their drinking habits,” explains Zafer Yenal, a sociology professor at Boğaziçi University. “It was also connected with diversification of leisure activities, and the emergence of public spaces and public life.”

Gazoz quickly usurped its competitors in new and old social spaces. Truck drivers not only delivered crates of soda and ice to cities but also news, reducing the need for social hubs like coffeehouses. Turks began enjoying gazoz while watching a football match or after a good sweat at the hamam or at movie theaters. Children played games in the streets with bottle caps. People drank it to sober up or with an aspirin to cure stomach troubles.

“It was a drink for everyone, becoming accessible for all due to its cheap price. At that time, it unified all elements of society — poor and rich,” says Burak Serkan Çetinkaya, a chef and the film director behind the documentary Kapak Olsun about the culture of gazoz.

By the 1960s, there were thousands of local producers across the country.

Gazoz and Goliath: Facing down big soda

If the War of Independence set the stage for gazoz’s rise, the Cold War was almost the soda’s undoing. Turkey joined NATO in 1952, bringing American soldiers, tourists, and consumer products to the country. The juggernaut Coca-Cola entered the country in 1964 with its first factory in İstanbul, and Pepsi followed just two years later. Quaint local flavors could not compete with the overpowering citrus, cinnamon, and vanilla that characterized global beverage giants. By the end of the decade, Coca-Colonization was in full force, as the company organized Turkish pop festivals and held bottle cap campaigns for customers to win televisions and trips to Europe.

"Coca Cola zehirdir! İçmeyin! pic.twitter.com/IRmBf5srzm — Murad Çobanoğlu (@muradcobanoglu) March 1, 2024

Some gazoz companies tried to mimic their international rivals, swapping out quaint flavors for colas. While a few, like Uludağ, Niğde, and Çamlıca, were able to pivot from local to national production and distribution, most couldn’t compete with the Americans’ advanced supply chains and deep advertising budgets.

This era of competition has become ripe for mythos. Rumors swirled that international soda companies pressured the Turkish government to establish regulations forbidding manual labor in soda production, squeezing out mom-and-pop producers, or that conglomerates hired goons to smash up local factories, or that Coca-Cola pressured Şişecam, the country’s main glass producer, into an exclusive contract for a decade, forcing gazoz producers to import more expensive bottles from neighboring countries. Turkish leftists saw Coca-Cola and Pepsi as a Trojan horse for hegemonic American influence. A 1965 cover of Yön , a left-wing magazine, warned, “ Coca Cola is poison, do not drink it! ”

Only a tenth of gazoz companies survived this period, and others have closed since. Though Suleyman Ayman’s son Ali was able to maintain the family business for decades, Zaman stopped producing its iconic red-and-white bottles of gazoz in 2023. His children didn’t wish to continue the business.

“Zaman will remain in people’s mouths forever,” he says bittersweetly.

The gazoz revival

Gazoz still has its fans. Many consumers view brands as fresh and free of pretense as compared to other types of soda, and they purchase gazoz as an opportunity to promote local foodways. Çetinkaya, for instance, says he always tries the local gazoz when traveling to a new city in Turkey.

More fundamentally, as globalization steamrolls over the country’s distinct cuisines and independent brands, small-batch gazoz represents a sweet backlash. As Turkish society deals with cultural and political polarization and economic crisis , gazoz is an escape, churning up the type of nostalji that Turks love.

“People aren’t expecting much from the future these days here,” professor Yenal says. “So there is a renewed focus on the past. Gazoz is a search for stability to bind people to the ground.”

Some of the country’s anxiety comes from its rapid urbanization over the last 20 years. From 2002 to 2018, the percentage of the population that lived in rural areas dropped from 35 percent to 16. For the millions who relocated, a taste of home is just a bottle of gazoz away.

“People come to find the gazoz from their childhood,” says Ufuk, a barista at Kapa Café. The İstanbul cafe serves 85 different brands from across the country. While it seems to defy the locavore spirit of gazoz, it’s also a lifeline for longtime fans and a place of discovery for neophytes.

It’s not just elderly Turks seeking out flavors from their youth. On many days, young university students pile into Avam Café, also in İstanbul, to grab a few bottles out of coolers. They enjoy their gazoz surrounded by old posters featuring ecstatic women dancing in miniskirts and drinking bottles of cherry soda.

“Gazoz producers laughed at me when I first ordered crates of their soda to the cafe. They thought no one would buy it,” says Ulas Bahçıvancı, who opened Avam in 2012.

Alongside cafes like Avam and Kapa, a third wave of gazoz producers have emerged with new, creative flavors that reflect the modern tastes of their homes. Erenköy Gazozu , produced in the hip Kadıköy neighborhood on the Asian side of İstanbul, makes small-batch flavors like cardamom-lemon and nutmeg-anise. And Şirince Gazozu , made in the beautiful Şirince village south of İzmir, produces an elderberry-peach soda, as well as a flavor that utilizes a newly revived indigenous strain of white grapes. Others, like Maki , continue making gazoz under the name seltzer.

Bahçıvancı also points out that cafe owners themselves are rediscovering the possibilities of making soda from fresh ingredients. Sevda Gazozcusu , a soda shop with four locations, makes its own in-house gazoz flavors, while Gazvoda Cafe in Çannakle offers handmade, beryl- and azure-colored sodas.

These newcomers still face an uphill battle against international brands, but they make clear there’s plenty of fizz left in gazoz.

Joshua Levkowitz writes about migration and fast-food culture in the Middle East and Mediterranean — by way of Louisiana. David Lombeida is a photojournalist and filmmaker based in Istanbul, Turkey, most recently working on topics of economy, conflict, and migration.

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Random Cat Adorably Steals The Show During Live Orchestral Performance

“really, it was such a lovely moment.”.

Recently, tour guide Begi Isil was in attendance for the 52nd Istanbul Music Festival in Turkey when she saw a different kind of “soloist” make his grand debut.

Musicians from the chamber orchestra Festival Strings Lucerne had just begun their performance of Beethoven‘s Pastoral Symphony when, as if not to be outshone, a random cat strutted onstage — stealing both the spotlight and the audience’s hearts.

“We have laughed, and even gave a big applause for the cat,” Isil told The Dodo. “Really, it was such a lovely moment.”

Where the cat had come from isn’t known for sure, but Isil said that a number of cats live on the grounds of the concert hall. There, they’re fed, housed — and best of all, appreciated.

“We love cats here in Turkey,” she said. “We are very animal friendly.”

Even the members of the orchestra performing that day couldn’t help but smile to be so charmingly upstaged, Isil said:

“I think the musicians were happy to witness a scene like that!”