Things to do in Istanbul: museums, observation decks, walking routes, vintage trams, must-see mosques, street food, drinks, and breakfasts.
Istanbul is a multifaceted city with its own rhythm, sounds, smells, and even a special pink color. This city leaves you no chance: either you fall in love with Istanbul or hate it from the very first time. We understood each other immediately: stepping onto the Eminönü waterfront, I felt – this is my city, with all its noise, dust, and bustle.
It doesn’t matter if you want to delve into Ottoman Empire history or the Byzantine past, Turkish cuisine or modern restaurants and culture. Or maybe you just want to immerse yourself in its street life or gaze at the sparkling waters of the Bosphorus – this is a city that can offer almost everything to a traveler.
Here are the main things worth doing in Istanbul to experience the different stories and faces of this city.
1. Descend into the Basilica Cistern
The extraordinary underground Basilica Cistern, located opposite the Hagia Sophia, has the atmosphere of a secret forest created by 336 columns. You’ll definitely enjoy the vaulted brick ceilings, mysterious carved capitals in the shape of Medusa’s head, and ghostly carp swimming in the dark waters of the reservoir.
This incredible engineering structure often appears in countless films and is now one of the city’s favorite tourist attractions.
Tip: buy entrance tickets to the cistern online in advance to move to the front of the line, avoiding the long queue.
2. Visit the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, officially called the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the most beautiful places in Turkey, especially in Istanbul. Built in the early 1600s, the magnificent mosque was erected as a display of pride and defiance and as a way to reaffirm the Ottoman Empire’s power in Istanbul after losing a battle with the Persians.
This beautiful building, built on the site of the former Byzantine palace, features six minarets, five large domes, several smaller domes, exquisite stained glass windows, and stunning tilework. With its blend of Islamic and Byzantine Christian features, it is often considered the last great mosque of the classical period.
The mosque is still an active place of worship for followers of Islam. It is also open to tourists. To visit, make sure to dress appropriately according to Islamic mosque visiting rules: women must wear a scarf or shawl on their heads.
Be amazed by the stunning facades dominated by domes, be inspired by the size of the main hall of the mosque. See the gorgeous stained glass, handmade ceramic tilework with various designs, luxurious chandeliers, calligraphy, and exquisite carpets.
Tip: plan your trip to the Blue Mosque by checking the prayer times, when the mosque is closed to visitors. Entrance to the mosque is free.
3. Take a tour of Topkapi Palace
This was the residence of the rulers of the Ottoman Empire and today houses a multitude of historical relics. Uncover the secrets of the palace and its harems during your visit to the luxurious Ottoman palace complex of Topkapi. From 1465 to 1830, it was inhabited by a series of powerful, famous sultans with their concubines and courtiers. Highlights include the huge harem, the impressive Imperial Council Hall, the teeming Imperial Treasury, and the picturesque Marble Terrace.
Nearby is the most beautiful Gülhane Park, which hosts an annual tulip festival in spring (early April).
Tip: Topkapi Palace has four inner courtyards and several museums to explore. Arrive early and plan for half a day without feeling rushed seeing the sights. Opening hours are from 9:00 to 18:00, palace ticket + extra entrance to the harem:
4. Admire the Hagia Sophia
You will definitely be impressed by this incredible structure when you visit the magnificent Byzantine basilica of Hagia Sophia. Built by order of Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, its soaring dome, vast nave, and glittering gold mosaics contribute to its special reputation. Hagia Sophia is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world! And its captivating history, transforming from a church to a mosque and then into a museum, makes it one of the most interesting historical landmarks.
Looted by Crusader raiders in the 13th century, seized by Ottoman invaders in 1453 during the conquest, and in modern times visited by millions of tourists after becoming a museum in 1935, it is one of Turkey’s greatest treasures.
Since its reconsecration as the Hagia Sophia Mosque in the summer of 2020 and subsequent reopening of its upper gallery in January 2024 Hagia Sophia has effectively been divided in two. The narthex and nave on the first floor are accessible only to worshipers attending the five daily Islamic prayers. At the same time, most of the building’s ancient marble floor is covered with carpets, and some mosaics are protected by retractable screens.
Non-Muslim visitors can now enter and view only the upper gallery, which overlooks the worship space and contains most of the building’s Christian mosaics, as well as ancient bronze doors and Viking-era graffiti. Despite all these recent changes, the historic grandeur of Hagia Sophia remains unswayed.
5. Plan a visit to Dolmabahçe Palace
It is located in the Beşiktaş district – another residence of Turkish sultans with a chic view of the Bosphorus.
The largest crystal chandelier in the world hangs over the ceremonial hall of Dolmabahçe Palace—a symbol of the opulence of this royal residence, built in the middle of the 19th century by Sultan Abdulmecid I. This is a wonderful combination of styles and materials, with a gilded ceiling, marble flooring, crystal balustrades, and bear skin carpets. The views of the Bosphorus are as dazzling as the decor.
The palace collections museum, which has a separate entrance about 10 minutes’ walk away, offers a glimpse into royal court life through displays of ceremonial and everyday items used in Istanbul’s palaces.
Open from 9:00 to 16:00.
6. Climb the Galata Tower
The Galata Tower is located in the very heart of the Galata district on a high hill above the Golden Horn Bay. It offers a magical view of the Golden Horn, mosques, and the historic part of Istanbul. Don’t miss the 4D cinema located on the tower’s second floor – a good bird’s-eye-view city tour.
7. See Istanbul from the highest observation deck
An alternative observation deck with a view of all of Istanbul is in one of the city’s tallest buildings—the Sapphire skyscraper, 238 meters high and 54 floors. On the top terrace is an observation platform, accessible by a high-speed elevator. The view from there is extraordinary—on a clear day, you can see all of Istanbul.
It’s fascinating to watch planes take off above the Sapphire—literally every 2 minutes a flight leaves Atatürk Airport. You can see the bridges over the Bosphorus light up at twilight. You watch thousands of cars stuck in rush hour, small and large houses, in between which old cemeteries and mosques have survived, side by side with business centers, sports grounds, and squares.
At the Vista café on the observation deck you can order a cup of tea or have a meal if you wish. Located at Levent metro station, open from 10:00 to 22:00.
Tip: on the opposite bank of the Bosphorus, the tallest tower in Istanbul was built – Küçük Çamlıca TV Tower. This tower is the tallest structure in Istanbul at 587 meters above sea level, consisting of 49 floors, including 4 underground and 45 above ground. In addition to media and radio-television services, the tower features an observation platform, souvenir shop, cafeteria, and restaurant, offering a unique view of the city.
8. Take a ride on Istanbul’s ferries
Getting on board one of the city’s famous ferries is the essence of Istanbul. Traveling between Asia and Europe on a city boat (vapur)—you can’t really feel Istanbul without this.
It doesn’t matter where you go—any route is sure to make an impression. To truly escape all the tourist crowds, take the ferry from Kadıköy pier to the Princes’ Islands, a favorite getaway for Istanbul residents for centuries. Or sail to the dock in the Üsküdar district—you are sure to pass by the Maiden’s Tower, located on a small island in the middle of the Bosphorus Strait.
9. Shop for souvenirs at Istanbul’s bazaar
Chaotic and colorful Grand Bazaar is the most famous place for shopping on Istanbul’s historic peninsula, but of course not the only one. Having explored its labyrinthine alleys and hidden caravanserais, follow the constant flow of local shoppers heading to the bustling trade district of Tahtakale, the center of which is the Spice Bazaar with its tempting aromas.
From there, return to the Blue Mosque and the adjoining Ottoman-style arcade bazaar, where you can certainly find mementos from your trip.
Tip: If you love shopping and don’t want to limit yourself to the Grand Bazaar, plan a stroll down one of the most colorful streets in Kadıköy — Bahariye Caddesi. It’s easy to recognize—a vintage yellow tram runs on tracks, and along the sidewalks stand colorful spheres. This street perfectly reflects Istanbul’s diversity—here is the opera and ballet theater, a Greek church, stores of famous and Turkish brands, and small shopping arcades.
10. Go to a Turkish hamam
There aren’t too many chances in life to wander nearly naked around a 16th-century Ottoman Empire monument. But Istanbul’s world-famous hammams offer just that: a chance to immerse yourself in history, architecture, warm water, and soapy foam all at once.
Hamam treatment will be a relaxing finish to a day spent walking the city’s sidewalks and gives an exciting look into the life and customs of Ottoman society. You can indulge in the steam baths on both sides of the Galata Bridge: Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı in Tophane, Zeyrek Çinili Hamamı in Fatih, and Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamamı in Sultanahmet are especially impressive and luxurious.
11. Theodora Cisterns – an alternative to the Basilica Cistern
The Theodora Cistern – Şerefiye Sarnıcı was restored in the summer of 2018. And so far they are not very hyped—there are few people, but the impression from the underground storages is no less. It’s located in Eminönü behind the “Pierre Loti” hotel, open daily from 9:00 to 18:30. Various events are held here: interactive exhibitions, fashion shows, music concerts, etc. The place is interesting and no less impressive than the Basilica Cistern museum.
12. Vintage Tram on Istiklal Street
Istiklal Street has its own atmosphere: hundreds of shops, vintage bookstores, arcades with cafes, and even wine bars where Atatürk himself liked to drink wine.
The street is pedestrian-only, except for the vintage tram, which has run there for more than a hundred years. This tram is one of Istanbul’s symbols. It is not the only one in the city. You can find in Kadıköy a vintage tram No.20— the same beautiful, but not so popular.
13. Galata Bridge – Watch Fishing and Taste Fresh Fish
Galata Bridge is dotted with fishermen with rods. While the mackerel swimming under the arches of the bridge laugh at them and do not rush to bite. Every day, from early morning until late at night, hundreds of fishermen cast their lines into the waters of the Golden Horn and bring home their daily catch by sunset.
Istanbulites love fish and cook it just as well as meat. In the Galata Bridge area, fish menus prevail. Balık-ekmek, or simply fish grilled and placed in a bun with vegetables and onions. This dish is made on mobile grills and grill boats that sway in the waters of the bay. Mussels stuffed with rice and drizzled with lemon juice are sold piece by piece from trays at the quay.
Beside the Galata Bridge, at a small fish market, there are open-air cafes. There you can taste the seafood, freshly prepared right on the fire. Everything is absolutely fresh, just caught, radiates aromas and drips with juice – finger-licking good! The fish is served with a salad of seasonal vegetables and a bottle of water. No frills from the waiters—everything is simple, cheap, and very tasty.
14. Alternative neighborhoods – see non-touristy Istanbul
Istanbul has places worth visiting for a special atmosphere. For example, visit the Asian side of Istanbul—the Kadıköy district. The Moda quarter is located. There is a hub of bars, restaurants, bookshops, music and antique stores, trendy boutiques, and tattoo parlors. There’s even a special bar street—Kadife. During the day it’s pretty quiet. But on Saturday and Sunday evenings, the activity in the bars increases so much that everyone spills out onto the street and, chatting and listening to music, keeps partying until morning.
Visit the hipster quarter in Karaköy. It is located in the area of a former industrial zone with cafes, art galleries, and music stores. There are walls covered in beautiful graffiti. The atmosphere is relaxed and pleasant, great for exploring street art and listening to street musicians. Or chilling in a pub—you certainly won’t be bored.
This place is in the Beyoğlu district between the Galata Bridge, the Museum of Modern Art, Kemeralti Street, and the Bosphorus Strait.
I advise you to read more: Six non-typical neighborhoods of Istanbul that most tourists don’t know about
15. Üsküdar and the Viewing Platform for Maiden’s Tower
One of the most popular places in the Üsküdar district is the Salacak promenade, a favorite leisure spot for locals. On the stone steps leading down to the water, benches with carpets and cushions are installed. You can drink tea and see Maiden’s Tower from the promenade.
Also in the Üsküdar district is the cozy quarter of Kuzguncuk with wooden houses adorned with carvings. Bright wooden houses are tightly joined together on steep lanes. Some of them are exclusively pedestrian. It’s somewhat reminiscent of the French Montmartre, the similarity accentuated by café tables and bright awnings along the streets.
In the Üsküdar area, there’s a charming century-old tea house—Tarihi Çınaraltı (Cengelkoy Mh. Cinarli Cami Sok. No: 4 A Çengelköy). I recommend this place for its wonderful view of the Bosphorus, cozy atmosphere, and complete absence of tourists.
In the teahouse’s courtyard stands a huge plane tree (platanus) that’s over 800 years old. Its branches press against a small mosque and offer shade and coolness in hot weather. At the pastry shop around the corner, you can buy sweets or beet pastries and order only tea in the teahouse. A great place to spend time overlooking the Bosphorus and ships.
16. Çamlıca Park – city observation platform
To see the panorama of the Bosphorus, the Sea of Marmara, the Princes’ Islands, and modern Istanbul, climb Çamlıca Hill. If you love long park walks, head to Otağtepe Park. It is located on a hill near the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge over the Bosphorus. This is also a botanical garden with a variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees. But the main value of this place is the wonderful views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus.
From the observation deck, there’s a view of the Levent district with Istanbul’s skyscrapers. And in the foreground on the opposite shore is Rumelihisar Fortress. If you go down to the waterfront, you can admire Anadoluhisar Fortress, which mirrors its younger sister on the adjacent bank.
The park is open from 10.00 to 20.00 daily, free entry.
17. The tradition of Turkish breakfasts in Istanbul
Breakfast is a time for lazy conversations and lingering, and this is appreciated in Istanbul. Even the waiters don’t remove the plates until you pick up every last bit from the plate with a delicious crust of bread.
Have a delicious breakfast at the café Küff Yeldeğirmeni—“mold” in Turkish (Rasimpaşa Mahallesi, Karakolhane Cd. No 54, 34716 Kadıköy). Bookshelves up to the ceiling, unobtrusive jazz, shabby walls, and tables under an awning. The nimble waiters serve a real Turkish breakfast with unlimited tea, traditional scrambled eggs and sausages, a wide selection of olives, sauces, and sweets—from honey in the comb.
18. Taste street food in Istanbul
Istanbul’s street food is so diverse! If you come here for a few days, you don’t even have to go to restaurants.
Buy a fresh bagel—simit—and a glass of fresh juice from oranges or pomegranates. Or a cup of tea—that’s your breakfast. For lunch—aromatic kebab, or grilled mackerel packed in a bun—the famous balık-ekmek, which you can wash down with ayran.
Other popular street snacks in Istanbul include roasted corn and chestnuts. They’re cooked on special carts—just follow the aroma and you’ll find them. Another cool street snack is mussels stuffed with rice. You can eat it right on the street, from the shell, drizzled with lemon juice.
And don’t forget to drink tea in cafes on the street/ You can drink tea even on ferryboats crossing the Bosphorus on the way to another part of the city. If you’re in Istanbul in winter—try the winter drink salep. This is a hot drink made from wild orchid root—it’s brewed and kept warm in big samovars. It’s unusual, tasty, and thick.
Hotels I recommend in Istanbul:
- Hotel De Reve Galata-Special Class≫ – Rooms have balconies with Bosphorus views, a wonderful location near Galataport and Istanbul’s Museum of Modern Art. The hotel has a rooftop restaurant where you can order breakfasts and romantic dinners overlooking evening Istanbul.
- Ferman Port Hotel – Special Category≫ – The hotel is very well located, very close to the train station and Galata ferry terminal, as well as the Galata Bridge, which is right across. Clean and quiet rooms, decent breakfast, and a beautiful view of the Bosphorus included.
- Otel Kadıköy≫ – The hotel has a great location near the Kadıköy ferry dock. From here, it’s easy to get to virtually any point in Istanbul (5-10 minutes’ walk to the ferry/bus/metro). There are various restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops near the hotel.
- Balat Historical Luxury House≫ – The hotel has a wonderful location in an area with lots of restaurants and a local community where you can watch the real life of Balat. The apartments are conveniently located not far from bus and tram stops. Guests are offered a varied breakfast, there is also a fully equipped kitchen—ideal for families or couples visiting Istanbul.
How to get to Istanbul
Most airlines, as well as Turkish Airlines, fly to the new Istanbul Airport – Istanbul havalimani.
Pegasus arrives at Sabiha Gökçen Airport.
Useful articles and links:
- Lycian Coast – a big guide to unusual Turkey
- Patara Beach – instructions for independent travelers
- Hotels in Cappadocia – with the best views of hot air balloons
- Skiing in Turkey – a guide to the resorts of Erciyes, Uludag, Palandoken
Car rental – inexpensive car rental options at DiscoverCars.com
Green Card and Travel insurance for trips abroad – online at the HotlineFinance portal
Hotel bookings and apartments – Booking.com
