Istanbul is the only city in the world that sits across two continents, which makes it a truly unique destination for travelers. A first visit to this magnificent city will surround you with a fascinating mix of Eastern and Western cultures where ancient traditions blend with modern life. The stunning architectural masterpieces and vibrant markets will amaze you at every turn.
This piece will help you find the best things to do in Istanbul, from the historic Sultanahmet district to a cruise on the scenic Bosphorus Strait. The city offers grand mosques, traditional bazaars, and authentic Turkish hammams that you shouldn’t miss. The streets of Istanbul tell stories that span more than two millennia, and you’ll want to experience everything this remarkable city has to offer.
Explore the Historic Sultanahmet District
The Sultanahmet district stands at the heart of historic Istanbul, where centuries of history meet through an extraordinary collection of architectural marvels. This UNESCO World Heritage area takes you back in time and holds some of Istanbul’s most remarkable attractions waiting to be found.
Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia
The magnificent Hagia Sophia stands as proof of 1,500 years of history and marks the beginning of your trip through Sultanahmet. This architectural marvel started as a Christian basilica in 537 CE and has undergone several transformations throughout its existence. The massive dome seems to float effortlessly above, showcasing innovative engineering techniques from the 6th century.
Marvel at the Blue Mosque
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known to most as the Blue Mosque, stands opposite to Hagia Sophia. The mosque’s construction took place from 1609 to 1616. Its six minarets and cascading domes create Istanbul’s distinctive skyline. The mosque’s interior showcases 20,000 handcrafted blue tiles that inspired its popular name.
Essential Visitor Tips for the Blue Mosque:
- Remove shoes before entering
- Women must cover their heads (scarves available at the entrance)
- Avoid visiting during prayer times
- Free admission for all visitors
Find the underground Basilica Cistern
The mysterious Basilica Cistern lies beneath Sultanahmet’s streets, built during Emperor Constantine’s reign in the 4th century. This underground marvel showcases 336 giant columns and holds up to 80,000 cubic meters of water. The two famous Medusa heads used as column bases will engage you, with one head positioned upside down that neutralizes its mythological powers.
Visitors can access the cistern daily from 9 AM to 7 PM and buy tickets at the entrance. The early morning offers the best time to visit as you’ll avoid crowds and experience the ethereal atmosphere of this underground wonder.
PRO TIP
A guided tour covering all three monuments helps you make the most of your time in Sultanahmet. These tours typically include skip-the-line access and expert commentary about these architectural masterpieces’ rich history.
Experience Istanbul’s Vibrant Bazaars
The bustling bazaars of Istanbul reveal a world where centuries-old trading traditions thrive among modern commerce. These vibrant marketplaces rank among the most exciting things to do in Istanbul and provide an authentic glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Shop at the Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) ranks among the world’s largest and oldest covered markets. Its historic walls house an impressive 4,000 shops. This maze-like wonder has served as Turkey’s commercial heart since the 1950s. Visitors can find everything from traditional carpets to intricate jewelry.
Shopping Tips for the Grand Bazaar:
- Your initial offer should be 50-60% of the asking price
- The merchants will offer tea – embrace it as part of your shopping experience
- Keep the merchant’s business card if you need time to decide on a purchase
- Remember your entrance gate number to find your way back easily
Indulge in spices at the Spice Bazaar
The Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) welcomes visitors with a unique experience through its 85 shops arranged in an L-shaped layout. Shoppers discover an aromatic paradise filled with Iranian saffron, sumac, and Aleppo peppers. The bazaar’s shops also showcase premium dried fruits, nuts, and traditional Turkish delight.
Bazaar Opening Hours:
| Market | Hours | Days Closed |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Bazaar | 9:00-19:00 | Sundays |
| Spice Bazaar | 9:00-19:00 | Open Daily* |
Try local street food
No trip to Istanbul’s bazaars is complete without tasting the amazing street food. The city’s beloved simit – sesame-crusted bread rings make a perfect quick snack. The famous döner kebab offers juicy meat served in bread that soaks up all the rich flavors from the rotating spit.
Make sure to try pide, a crispy flatbread that comes hot from the oven with delicious toppings. The baklava will satisfy your sweet tooth with its layers of pastry filled with pistachios and sweet syrup. The steep hills of Istanbul can leave you thirsty, so head to one of the juice shops in the Galata district that serve fresh-squeezed fruit drinks.
PRO TIP
Smart shoppers should skip pre-packaged Turkish delight at the Spice Bazaar. Vendors often showcase premium samples but sell lower quality packaged products at high prices.
Cruise the Bosphorus Strait
A boat ride through Istanbul’s legendary Bosphorus Strait offers one of the city’s most memorable experiences. The majestic waterway spans 32 kilometers between two continents and features some of the world’s most expensive real estate along its shores.
Take a scenic ferry ride
Several cruise options match different schedules and priorities. Şehir Hatları, the official ferry company, provides three distinctive experiences: Short Circle Bosphorus Cruise, Full Bosphorus Cruise, and the Full Bosphorus Cruise by Night. These cruise options create amazing experiences:
| Cruise Type | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Short Circle | 2 hours | Eminönü to Istinye |
| Full Tour | 6 hours | Extends to Black Sea |
| Night Cruise | 2.5 hours | Sunset views |
PRO TIP
The most spectacular views await passengers who grab seats on the ship’s left-hand side. The public ferry leaves Eminönü twice daily and stops at waterfront towns before reaching Anadolu Kavagi.
View palaces and mansions along the shore
The Bosphorus shoreline showcases magnificent historic residences that tell stories of Ottoman royalty and elite. Your cruise reveals these architectural masterpieces:
- Dolmabahçe Palace: This Baroque-style masterpiece served as the main Ottoman residence after replacing Topkapı Palace during 1843-1856
- Beylerbeyi Palace: Ottoman Sultans and visiting dignitaries used this elegant palace as their summer retreat between 1861-1865
- Çırağan Palace: Sultan Murad V’s former residence stands today as one of Istanbul’s most luxurious hotels
Visit the Princes’ Islands
A ferry ride to the Princes’ Islands makes a perfect addition to your Bosphorus trip. These islands don’t allow cars and motorbikes. The archipelago has nine islands, but visitors can access only four: Kınalıada, Burgazada, Heybeliada, and Büyükada.
Büyükada, the largest island, is about 90 minutes away by ferry. These islands provide a quiet escape from Istanbul’s busy streets. Victorian-style villas stand as beautiful reminders of the islands’ prestigious history.
Visiting Tips:
- The islands are less crowded on weekdays
- The weather is best in spring and autumn
- Early morning ferries help you make the most of your day
- Büyükada, the last stop, gives you the most complete island experience
A single ferry ticket costs just 35 Turkish Lira (about £1.70 or USD 2.01). The boat ride rewards you with amazing views of Istanbul’s skyline, and you can see the Hagia Sofia and Topkapi Palace from the water.
Immerse Yourself in Turkish Culture
Understanding Istanbul’s soul requires delving deep into its rich cultural traditions. Beyond the magnificent monuments and scenic views, the city is a chance to connect with centuries of Turkish heritage.
Relax in a traditional hammam
Turkish hammams represent an ancient ritual that spans thousands of years and provides more than just cleanliness – these baths immerse you in Turkish wellness culture. These public bathhouses have enhanced visitors’ well-being through steam, scrubs, and rejuvenation for centuries. Modern hammams blend time-honored practices with contemporary comfort that tired travelers find perfect for authentic relaxation.
Early morning visits help you avoid crowds and get the best experience. The hammams provide all essential items, including a pestemal (traditional towel) and toiletries. Note that authentic hammams maintain gender-separated spaces to ensure every visitor’s privacy and comfort.
Watch a Whirling Dervish performance
The mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes ceremony, called the Sema, celebrates an 800-year-old Sufi tradition. This unique spiritual meditation goes beyond a simple performance as dervishes connect with the divine through their hypnotic spinning movements.
You can experience this remarkable ceremony at these venues:
- Hodjapasha Culture Center: A restored 550-year-old Ottoman bath hosts daily shows
- Galata Mevlevi Museum: The most authentic venue shows performances every Sunday at 17:00
- Sirkeci Train Station: The historic setting features regular performances
VIEWING TIP
Make sure to book your tickets ahead of time, especially during busy seasons. The ceremony requires visitors to stay quiet and avoid flash photography. Ticket prices start at 150 TL per person, and children usually get free entry.
Enjoy Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant
Turkish dining culture goes way beyond the reach and influence of just food – it embodies hospitality, tradition, and community. Meals in Istanbul are unhurried celebrations where conversation flows as naturally as the tea.
Essential Turkish Dining Etiquette:
These acclaimed restaurants provide authentic dining experiences:
Each restaurant showcases its unique view of Turkish cuisine, ranging from street food classics to refined Ottoman recipes. Most venues serve traditional meze (small plates), which lets you taste multiple dishes in one sitting. Note that Turkish hosts love to serve multiple portions, so come hungry and ready to feast.
PRO TIP
A culinary walking tour with a local guide is a great way to get hidden gems and learn the stories behind Istanbul’s iconic dishes.
Conclusion
Istanbul is a living museum where old traditions naturally mix with modern life. The city gives visitors a unique experience through time and culture. Every neighborhood has its story to tell. You’ll find magnificent domes of Sultanahmet and aromatic lanes of the Spice Bazaar, while the Bosphorus Strait naturally splits two fascinating continents. These varied experiences create a mixture of sights, sounds, and flavors that show the true spirit of this remarkable city.
A visit to Istanbul offers more than just sightseeing – it connects you with centuries of human history and culture. The city will captivate you as you admire architectural marvels, taste traditional cuisine, and feel genuine Turkish hospitality. Istanbul leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits. The city rewards curious travelers with rich experiences that turn a simple vacation into a life-changing adventure in one of the world’s most extraordinary places.
