Welcome to Istanbul, Turkey – a unique city like no other! From its iconic towering mosques to bustling Grand Bazaar, Istanbul is the perfect blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. This bustling metropolis is the only city in the world where Europe and Asia meet, creating a dynamic fusion of cultures, flavors, and experiences.
During my unforgettable trip with EF Ultimate Break, I sailed down the beautiful Bosphorus Strait, savored delicious hummus dips, and experienced the ultimate relaxation in a traditional Turkish hammam. If you’re planning a visit, get ready for a journey filled with laughter, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime! Here are 15 places to visit in Istanbul, Turkey that you must add to your itinerary.
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1. Visit the Hagia Sophia
You can’t visit Istanbul without seeing its most astonishing architectural masterpiece. The Hagia Sophia is one of the most beautiful mosques in the city, and it’s a must when it comes to places to visit in Istanbul. Both the interior and the exterior of Hagia Sophia are stunning, so each step you take will leave you in awe!
As you enter the mosque, you’ll be surrounded by gold tiles and an ambiance you cannot see elsewhere. Being inside of it, however, is an entirely different experience! You will be absorbed by the calmness this mosque creates around you. Every detail will captivate you, but pay special attention to the glorious dome. Even though Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century, the whole building was preserved. So, expect to be surprised by the bold engineering that was present at that time.
Since the mosque is one of the greatest Istanbul tourist attractions, do not be surprised by the crowds. Hagia Sophia is one of the most visited spots in the city, so you cannot really avoid the tourist swarms.
2. Explore the Blue Mosque
Just a short walk away from the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is another gem among the attractions in Istanbul, Turkey. Compared to the Hagia Sophia, where gold takes center stage, the Blue Mosque is all about the shades of blue, as the name suggests.
Besides the majestic interiors, the name has always intrigued many tourists. There are two stories behind it, so you may choose the one you want to believe in. The first is kind of an obvious one – the name of the mosque is after the color of the tiles inside. However, the second one is more interesting. It’s believed that ancient sailors who sailed along the Marmara Sea saw blue shades reflecting on the mosque.
Once you enter inside, you will feel the magical energy of the Blue Mosque’s interior. Nonetheless, when you plan your visit to this stunning place, you should select your clothes accordingly. Both men and women are required to wear attire that covers their shoulders and knees, and women are required to wear a scarf over their heads as well. But do not worry – if your attire differs from the rules, you will be provided with covers at the entrance.
3. Go Underground at the Basilica Cistern
If you want to see something spectacular, you need to head to one of the most amazing places to visit in Istanbul, Turkey. The Basilica Cistern is the largest underground reservoir built in the Byzantine era. Turkey is a place where this period is best seen and experienced, and this particular spot is your best chance to witness the remains of that time. Once you get under the Sultanahmet streets, you will be taken back in time and feel like you are part of a different world.
The Basilica Cistern was created in the 6th century, but the architecture remains untouched. You may have already seen this place if you have watched From Russia with Love, starring James Bond. It is quite a popular spot you should not miss during your Istanbul trip!
The Basilica is also known under the name Sunken Palace, and it can get really crowded. So, I suggest getting “skip-the-line” tickets to enjoy the place without the long wait. Get the opportunity to enjoy the underground of Istanbul, which is ornamented with unique marble and home to the famous Medusa heads.
4. Get Your Haggle on at the Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is one of the most iconic and vibrant places to visit in Istanbul, Turkey. Here, you will find all those fascinating shops with colorful things to buy. It is one of the greatest spots to buy souvenirs to remember your trip uniquely.
However, the Grand Bazaar will also allow you to try your haggling skills. It is a tradition there, so do not go for the first price they give you. Be sure to shop around to see what other deals you can find. Many merchants are selling similar items!
5. Climb Galata Tower
When you look for things to do in Istanbul, Turkey, climbing the Galata Tower is a must-see! The tower is one of the city’s most famous landmarks, and it offers breathtaking views, so it would be a shame to skip it.
The majestic historic tower will treat you with glorious views of the Bosphorus Strait as you climb the top. See the city from a different perspective and enjoy the stunning architecture in the surroundings. The best views are at sunset – of course, expect more crowds.
6. Sail Across the Bosphorus Strait
Istanbul can be seen from different viewpoints, meaning you can be amazed from all perspectives. If you ask me, my favorite view of the city is from a boat ride on the Bosphorus Strait. This is a chance to see the most of this authentic place and admire the surroundings in a distinct ambiance.
Sailing across the river is a way to be with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia. Considering Istanbul is situated on both continents, a boat tour will allow you to enjoy both sides. Also along the river, you can see all those elegant and luxurious mansions of the elites in the city.
7. Visit Kadikoy Market
A visit to Kadikoy Market is another way to explore Istanbul’s Asian side. It is also an opportunity to taste the delightful treats of the city! The market is one of the most vibrant and diverse spots in Istanbul, with so much to offer.
Kadikoy Market is one of the hippest neighborhoods, meaning you can hang out in authentic bars and restaurants and enjoy a change in setting and atmosphere.
8. Eat the Street Food
Besides places to see in Istanbul, there are numerous things to try! One of them is the city’s popular street food. It is known for its spectacular blend of ingredients and heavenly taste. Try everything from midye dolma and gozleme to balik duram, kokorec, and kumpir. These are Turkish classics you cannot resist!
If you are looking for magnificent places to visit in Istanbul and be able to try these delicacies, count on Ortakoy. This neighborhood is full of iconic spots where street food takes center stage. One of the easiest ways to experience street food is to book a food tour with a local.
9. Get a Turkish Bath at a Hammam Spa
When it comes to Turkish culture and customs, a Turkish bath is one of the most prominent ones. To turn your Istanbul trip into a genuine cultural adventure, plan a visit to Cağaloğlu Hamamı. Experience the ultimate relaxation and tranquility in one of the most spectacular places in Istanbul!
I am not talking about a regular bath, but one with specific traditions included. A hammam spa is not an ordinary spa where you get all the common pampering treatments. This is where pampering is taken to a different level. Turkish people know the importance of self-care, so this is an opportunity to treat yourself to the personal wellness you deserve! Just be prepared to be scrubbed down from head-to-toe. If nudity is a deal-breaker, you may want to skip this one.
10. Shop at the Egyptian Spice Market
The Egyptian Market is another spot among the famous Istanbul tourist attractions. Besides the amazing smells, you’ll see a lot of colors. Do not miss out on the chance to bring some unique aromas back home and intensify the taste of your favorite dishes amazingly. The greatest thing is that you will have so many options to choose from, so you can find exactly the spices and teas that will satisfy your palate.
11. Wander Through Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul to learn about the Ottoman Empire and its history. The lavish palace boasts majestic surroundings both inside and outside. The lush gardens ornamented with distinguished trees and plants will take your breath away, while the luxurious interiors will let you dream about the times when sultans ruled these territories.
Topkapi is quite big, meaning you will need plenty of time to explore it entirely. You may want to schedule one whole morning for it to enjoy it to the fullest. Also, do not forget to put on your comfy shoes because there will be a lot of walking. And, do not miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic views from the palace with a cup of Turkish coffee!
12. Stroll Through Balat
Besides historical spots and architectural marvels from ancient times, Istanbul has a unique, vibrant side. Balat is one of the most colorful neighborhoods in Istanbul, where cobbled streets and buildings of different hues are the protagonists.
Balat is the perfect spot to get lost when you need to relax in cozy tea rooms and shop in antique stores. Also, this neighborhood is considered one of the most Instagrammable places in Istanbul so do not forget to take a few shots and strike a pose!
13. Sunset Dinner at Seven Hills Restaurant
When you visit Istanbul, you should definitely plan for a sunset dinner at one of the most scenic rooftops in the city. Seven Hills Restaurant is located in the heart of Istanbul and offers delicious food and unparalleled views of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Dress up and have a memorable dinner with fantastic scenery!
14. Sulaymaniyah Mosque
This is another mosque but when visiting Istanbul, you will never get tired of them. Each comes with their own unique history and features!
Suleymaniye Mosque is a grandiose architectural masterpiece created by the same person who designed Hagia Sophia. You may spot some similarities between them, but this one does not come with gold ornaments. Still, it is a majestic building worth seeing and exploring during your Istanbul adventure.
15. Hippodrome of Constantinople
The Hippodrome of Constantinople was built for chariot racing during the Byzantine era. It was one of the greatest arenas for this activity, and emperors and rulers of ancient periods spent a lot of their time watching these races.
Nowadays, the Hippodrome of Constantinople includes many historical landmarks and monuments, but it has retained the outline of the former racetracks. Here, you can see the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Masonry Obelisk.
Even though the city can seem crowded and chaotic, a good agenda for places to visit in Istanbul will allow you to see most of it. I can tell you that once you step into this magical world of history, architecture, and culture, you will enjoy each minute of it. Istanbul is unique and absolutely different from other major cities in Europe!
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