Top 15 Things To Do In Istanbul

The Constantinople of the Romans, also known as “New Rome” or “Byzantium,” has much to do with its significant role in connecting Asia and Europe. Turkey’s old capital, Istanbul, is not just a city; it’s a whole world in itself! Portraying colors from diverse heritage, it is the political, cultural, and economic hub of Turkey.

The iconic landmarks of huge minarets, domes, churches, and historical remains of the Byzantines have marked the places as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The world-famous and largest spanning suspension bridges, the Bosphorus bridges, connect the Asian and European parts of Turkey. Fatih District, or locally famous as Sultanahmet, has witnessed a historical significance of cultural evolution, where famous tourist attractions such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, the Bosphorus Strait, and Suleymaniye Mosque are among captivating must-visit attractions. However, Istanbul has not fully revealed its beauty yet. There is much more to find and explore here. Let’s go on this journey to visit and discover the top 15 things to do in Istanbul.

A natural boundary of two seas that served as a major waterway connecting as well as separating Europe and Asia, is a prominent economic hub of Turkey. To best view the city’s marvels, we would recommend getting the trip across the Bosphorus Strait and allowing yourself to get consumed by the surrounding beauty. Casually stroll along the coastline of the Bosphorus and breathe in the cool air of the waters. For viewing a greater and panoramic scene, cruise on a ship and look past the ancient palaces, mosques of Istanbul, and the whimsical waterfront (especially in the evening).

Standing 63 metres tall, Galata Tower is an ancient 14th-century tower that is located in Beyoglu. You can reach it by a tram or a bus taken from Taksim Square, which would take 13 minutes or 26 minutes, respectively, depending on the mode of transport you choose. It will cost you an entry fee of 650 Turkish Lira (as of 2025) to get to the observatory deck inside the tower, though this price may be subject to change. Visitors will have to ascend an elevator and take three flights of stairs to get there. The unparalleled and dynamic views of the whole city will leave you dazed.

Both of the gems from the past are among the best places to visit in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia Mosque was once an old church from the Byzantine period, and to date, some of the Christian art and paintings can be seen around the interior walls. The 1500 years ancient, World Heritage Site of the UNESCO is identifiable from afar due to its dusty-red dome, and beautifully decorated golden mosaics and luxurious chandeliers. After the Ottoman invasion, it was transformed into the Aya Sophia Mosque. Later in 1935, after being converted into a museum, it became a famous tourist spot where millions of visitors marvel at the site’s beauty.

After the reconsecration and reopening of the upper gallery, it has been divided into two subsequent levels. The ground floor is allocated for daily prayers, while the upper level is accessible to all Non-Muslims. The ‘Omphalion’ was of religious importance for the Romans, as it was the place where the emperors were crowned. The Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, was constructed during the reign of Ahmed I, and is famous for its Islamic architectural design. It consists of six minarets, and strangely, the Blue Mosque doesn’t appear blue from the outside. Instead, 20,000 tiles in the interiors are Iznik tiles decorated with blue floral motifs, which explains the title. Its outdoor area is surrounded by beautiful gardens and seating arrangements for tourists to take pictures and sit for a while.

The Hippodrome of Constantinople was built by the Roman emperor, Severus. It served to be a playing ground mainly for chariot races, official ceremonies, and the site for penalties and the conviction of criminals. Located just two minutes walking distance from Sultanahmet Square, housing the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. You’ll get to enjoy a historical tour by visiting the antique monuments brought by the Byzantines, such as the Obelisk of Thutmosis III from Egypt and the Serpent Column from Delphi.

One of the oldest flea markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar has about 4000 shops that sell a variety of products ranging from specialties of Turkey, such as spices and their carpets, to all that is in demand, like clothing, jewelry, handbags, footwear, and souvenirs. You’ll also find here food vendors and top-rated Turkish restaurants that serve famous Turkish foods as well as international cuisines.

Although it may seem just a casual place from the outside, when you go inside, it is revealed that this ancient marvel is a reservoir system built during the time of Constantinople. Visitors walk through its dimly lit interior on raised platforms, allowing them to observe the Roman columns, flowing water, and famous Medusa heads up close in an atmospheric, almost mystical setting that was built during the time of Constantinople to supply water to the mosque and Topkapi Palace. The Roman architectural columns and the Greek Medusa heads comprising the artwork, and their engineering of creating a water system that is still active, are truly commendable.

A royal, luxurious palace of the Ottomans that was lived in for about 400 years. Covering about 70,000 square feet of area, Topkapi Palace has three courtyards which exhibit the artefacts and treasures of Turkish royalty. The Harem is an exquisite area where the bedrooms of the Sultans and their wives, about 400 exclusive rooms, can be accessed by purchasing an extra ticket.

An amazingly rated Istanbul attraction, Sunrise Cruise on the Bosphorus Strait is recommended by most tourists for its natural scenic beauty. The yacht cruise will take you around the iconic landmarks such as Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and other sites, while you will be treated with exotic snacks and drinks.

This palace is also from the Ottoman period, and looking at its grandeur, one can easily wonder about how glorious the lives of the Sultans would have been. The palace was previously constructed of wooden material, but in the 1800s it was rebuilt into a building that has stables, a flour mill, monuments, and a clock tower. The gardens surrounding the palace with colorful blooming tulips give a scenic view, especially in summer, and the huge white metallic gates that open to the Bosphorus River appear as a magnificent sight.

A refreshing day out would be if you tried this outdoor activity, by going for a picnic at Belgrad Forest. The lush green trees, covering an area of more than 1300 acres, invite the tourists to explore the specific picnic areas and also the jogging trails where walkers practice their fitness. You can also visit the nearby Atatürk Arboretum, which is another natural habitat that features mesmerizing flora and fauna and several ponds.

The city’s largest and most beautiful park, Gulhane Park, can be spotted next to Topkapi Palace in the Fatih district. The springtime tulips that bloom in thousands create a mesmerizing sight to behold, where families love to visit and enjoy the scenic beauty of this place.

One of the nine biggest islands in Istanbul, Buyukada Island, is famous for portraying its Ottoman aura through huge mansions settled on its streets. You can get yourself a bicycle on rent to explore the surroundings by yourself. Visit the Aya Yorgi church, at the highest peak of this island, and then stop by Yucetepe Kir Gazinosu for a perfect, ravishing Turkish meal.

Founded in the late 19th century, this is Turkey’s first museum that is categorized into three sections where artefacts and relics from archaeology, Islamic architecture, and ancient oriental art can be viewed. You will spot the collections from Ancient Greek times, Turkish artefacts, discoveries made from Africa, Mesopotamia, the Balkans, and the Middle East.

For the love of gastronomic experiences and the aromatic spices found especially in this spice market, anyone would love to buy condiments from here. They also sell souvenirs, tea leaves, sweets, along with different spices that are included as herbal remedies for improving memory, enhancing immunity, and improving digestion. Spice Bazaar is also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, located near the Grand Bazaar.

Although it was built to serve the Ottoman navy marine forces, it was opened to the general public after undergoing restoration processes in 2012. It gives the facility of enjoying a full body scrub in the Turkish hamam ritual. Visitors typically spend 60 to 90 minutes during the session, which includes relaxation in a heated marble room, followed by a traditional scrub and foam massage. There are different timings for women and men to get these services.

Find your perfect place to stay in Istanbul—whether you want city views, quiet charm, or something right by the water. This list covers the best spots to relax, recharge, and enjoy the city.

7.6 Good

Old Town Istanbul Hostel

Ishakpasa Caddesi No 20 Istanbul, TR

4.3 Average

Qonaq Hotel & Suites

Cankurtaran Mahallesi Yeni SaraÇhane Sokak 18 Istanbul, tr

8.5 Very good

Armada Istanbul Old City Hotel

Ahýrkapý Str. No:24 Cankurtaran Istanbul, TR