This Legendary City Straddles Two Continents — and Its Grand Bazaar Is a Shopper’s Paradise

Things to do in Istanbul, such as exploring the Grand Bazaar, climbing the Galata Tower, and visiting the iconic Hagia Sophia, offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning views. As Turkey’s most popular tourist destination, Istanbul welcomes over 16 million visitors each year, drawn by its vibrant bazaars, breathtaking architecture, and rich heritage.

Home to over 15 million people and straddling two continents, Istanbul is where East meets West, creating a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Picture yourself savoring Turkish delights in ancient bazaars, marveling at intricate Ottoman palaces, or taking in the serene beauty of the Bosphorus.

We selected these top attractions by reviewing expert recommendations and traveler reviews to help you make the most of your visit. Whether it’s your first trip or a return journey, these 12 must-do activities in Istanbul will leave you with lasting memories.

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In a Nutshell

Top Hotels

Here are some of the best places you can stay in Istanbul:

• Luxury: CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul
• Mid-range: Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci
• Budget: Hotel Empress Zoe

Must-Do Activities

Here are Istanbul’s top three things to do:

• Explore the Grand Bazaar: It is one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets.
• Climb Galata Tower: It offers some of the best views in Istanbul.
• Admire the Hagia Sophia: It is widely considered Turkey’s most famous tourist attraction.

Explore the Grand Bazaar

Exploring the Grand Bazaar is one of the most popular things to do in Istanbul, especially if you love shopping. A shopaholic’s dream, the Grand Bazaar is a world-famous market that’s been in operation for over 560 years. It spans more than 60 streets, covering an area of 452,084 square feet (42,000 square meters). 

There are almost 2,500 shops within the market. Unsurprisingly, these statistics make it one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Regarding what’s on sale, visitors can find everything from jewelry makers and textile manufacturers to carpet sellers and spice stalls. 

Whatever you want or need, the Grand Bazaar has it. Besides the fascinating shops, travelers often love the market’s vibrant atmosphere. 

Travel Tips

• Bring cash for bargaining: While some shops accept cards, cash is king here, especially for negotiating better prices. Turkish Lira is preferred, so exchange some money before visiting.
• Visit the hidden courtyards: Look for the smaller gates leading to quieter parts of the bazaar, like Zincirli Han, where artisans work on jewelry and antiques away from the crowds.
• Consider a guided tour: If you’re short on time, book a Grand Bazaar tour to learn about its history and find the best shops faster. Many tours also include stops at nearby attractions like the Spice Bazaar.

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Climb Galata Tower

Galata Tower is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks, which is saying something considering the breathtaking architecture across the city. This 14th-century Genoese tower was built as a defensive watchtower at the highest point of the now mostly demolished Galata walls. Today, the tower is a museum and a popular viewpoint.

While learning more about the tower is exciting, the views from the top will steal your heart. From the tower, you can see most of Istanbul in all its glory, so don’t forget your camera. The Istanbul Tourist Pass includes entry to Galata Tower.

Travel Tips

• Head to the platform at sunset for magical photos: The view is stunning at any time, but catching the golden hour just before sunset gives you the best light for photos. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the Bosphorus and the cityscape.
• Combine your visit with a walking tour of Galata and Karaköy: I joined a guided walking tour that explored the streets around the tower, including Istiklal Avenue and Karaköy’s coffee shops.

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Admire the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most famous and historically significant tourist attractions. Officially called Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, the Roman Empire built this monumental complex in 537 AD. Interestingly, it’s the largest church built by the Eastern Roman Empire. 

Featuring a vast dome, 15th and 16th-century minarets, and a grand interior, Hagia Sophia has changed a lot during its 1,500-year history. What started as a Greek Orthodox Christian church has become a Latin Catholic church, a mosque, and a museum. It only became a mosque again in 2020. 

While the magnificent exterior draws visitors in, entry costs EUR 25 (USD 26.30) just to visit the second floor, where the gallery is. Most of the ground floor is not accessible to non-muslims anymore, and women must wear a headscarf to visit the gallery.

Travel Tips

• Arrive before 9 AM for fewer crowds: The Hagia Sophia gets very busy by mid-morning. If you get there right when it opens, you’ll have more time to enjoy the gallery without the heavy crowds.
• Book a guided tour to understand the history: I joined a 1-hour guided tour for EUR 20, which explained the symbolism in the mosaics and architecture that I wouldn’t have noticed on my own.
• Wear slip-on shoes for easy removal: Since it’s an active mosque, you’ll need to remove your shoes to enter certain areas. Slip-on shoes make this process much faster.

Read also: Least Walkable Cities in Europe

Visit the Blue Mosque

Another iconic Istanbul tourist attraction is the Blue Mosque, just a 4-minute walk from Hagia Sophia. This gorgeous mosque is famed for its grand dome, tall minarets, and rich history. However, you’ll have to step inside to learn why it’s called the Blue Mosque.

Officially called the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, this 17th-century Ottoman-era mosque is beautifully decorated with thousands of hand-painted blue tiles. These striking tiles give the mosque’s interior a dazzling appearance, especially when lights are beamed onto them. It’s believed there are approximately 20,000 turquoise-colored tiles in the Blue Mosque. 

A Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia guided tour will give you a greater insight into their history. It costs USD 65, and it includes priority admission tickets for both.

Travel Tips

• Visit during prayer times for a quieter experience: I went to the Blue Mosque right after one of the prayer sessions, and it was way less crowded. This gave me a chance to really admire the details inside without the usual tourist rush.
• Dress modestly: Make sure to cover your shoulders and knees. I almost missed the dress code, but luckily, they provided a scarf to cover up. It’s a respectful way to experience the mosque, and they won’t let you in without covering up.

Read also: Tourist Mistakes To Avoid When Visiting Europe

Escape the Hustle and Bustle in Gülhane Park

Gülhane Park, located in Istanbul’s Fatih district, is an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city’s busy streets. First opened to the public in 1912, over 100 years since it first opened, this large park offers something for everyone. Visitors looking to relax can enjoy a peaceful picnic.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a leisurely walk around the botanic gardens, and music-loving travelers can watch one of the park’s live concerts. That’s not all Gülhane Park offers, either. It’s also home to several exciting attractions. 

This includes the Roman-era Column of the Goths and the Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam.

Travel Tips

• Bring Water and Snacks: It can get hot during the day, especially in summer.
• Check for Free Events: Gülhane Park often hosts free outdoor concerts and events. Check their schedule online before you go to see if you can catch one during your visit.
• Visit the Museum: If you’re into history, don’t skip the Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam.

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Take a Ferry to Büyükada

One of the best day trips from Istanbul is Büyükada, the largest of the nine islands that make up Princes’ Islands, just off the city’s coast. Meaning “Big Island,” Büyükada is another place to escape Istanbul’s bustling streets. You can catch a ferry from Kabataş and Bostancı, but I recommend booking a tour.

On this Princes’ Islands tour from Istanbul, you’ll enjoy a sightseeing cruise to the island that includes visits to Kınalıada and Heybeliada. When you arrive in Büyükada, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore the island, including the scenic waterfront and postcard-perfect coastal viewpoints.

This tour also includes a car tour of Büyükada. During the tour, you’ll visit Büyükada’s majestic mansions and tuck into a delicious lunch.

Travel Tips

• Visit the Monastery of St. George: If you’re up for a bit of a climb, head to the Monastery of St. George on the island’s highest point. It’s peaceful, offers great views, and isn’t crowded. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
• Grab lunch at a waterfront café: Head to one of the waterfront cafés near the pier. Try a fresh fish sandwich—it’s a local specialty and great for a light, tasty meal while you enjoy the sea views.

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Walk Through Çiçek Pasajı

Çiçek Pasajı is one of the most underrated tourist attractions in Istanbul. Originally called Cité de Péra, this historic passage and arcade in the Beyoğlu district was initially constructed in 1876. However, before that, the space was occupied by the Naum Theatre, which sadly burnt down in 1870.

Over the years, Çiçek Pasajı has been filled with luxury apartments, tobacco shops, patisseries, florists, and more. Today, the passage is mainly filled with touristic restaurants. If you want a non-touristic alternative in the area, go to Asmali Cavit for great mezze.

Çiçek Pasajı features beautiful glass ceilings, and its facade is one of the most ornate buildings in Beyoğlu. Walking through the arcade allows you to admire its stunning architecture and learn more about its fascinating history. Meanwhile, historic photographs of past business owners adorn the walls. 

Travel Tips

• Visit in the evening for a lively atmosphere: The arcade comes to life after sunset, with restaurants filling up. Come around 6-7 PM to experience it at its best.
• Consider a guided tour: If you’re curious about the history, I recommend joining a walking tour in the Beyoğlu area. Many tours include Çiçek Pasajı and interesting stories about its past, especially the fire that destroyed the original theater in 1870.

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Relax at the Çemberlitaş Hamamı

Visiting the Çemberlitaş Hamamı is one of the top things to do in Istanbul if you want to relax and unwind while also experiencing Turkish history. For those who don’t know, a hammam is a steam bath or public bath that originated in ancient Arabia. They’ve been a significant part of Turkey’s Islamic culture for centuries. 

The Çemberlitaş Hamamı is the most famous hammam in Istanbul. Located in the Çemberlitaş neighborhood of Istanbul, this historical hammam opened its doors in 1584. Today, visitors can still enjoy an authentic experience in the hammam. 

You can relax in the warm, cleansing waters, enjoy a body scrub, and indulge in various massages, such as Indian head massage and oil massage.

Travel Tips

• Bring Cash for Extras: Some services like massages or scrubs aren’t included in the basic entry fee. They often prefer cash, so have some on hand.
• Check for Package Deals: There are usually different packages for a full experience (scrubs, massages, etc.). Ask about these when you book to save money.

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Stroll Along Galata Bridge

It may be lower than Galata Tower, but Galata Bridge is also one of the best places in Istanbul for city views. This modern bridge connects Istanbul’s historic Eminönü district to the vibrant Karakoy neighborhood. The current bridge is the fifth bridge built at the site.

The first Galata Bridge was constructed in 1845, while the current bridge was built in 1994. The bridge itself is super interesting. You can observe local fishermen fishing over the side of the bridge, and the bottom tier is lined with Turkish cafes and restaurants. 

However, the bridge’s views are the crowning glory. From Galata Bridge, visitors are treated to mesmerizing views of the Bosphorus, the Blue Mosque, and the Galata Tower.

Travel Tips

• Try the Fish Sandwich: Grab a fish sandwich from one of the vendors by the bridge. It’s a must-try local snack and super fresh, made right there.
• Take a Bosphorus Cruise: You can catch a boat tour right near the bridge. It’s a great way to see Istanbul from a different perspective and get closer to the views of the Blue Mosque and Galata Tower.

Read also: Amazing Neighborhoods in Europe

Soak up the Atmosphere at Taksim Square

Taksim Square is regarded as the heart of modern Istanbul, making it one of the city’s top tourist attractions. Situated in the Beyoğlu district, this lively square is famed for its vibrant atmosphere, entertainment venues, shops, and restaurants. It’s also near iconic landmarks like Taksim Su Sarnıcı and Tarihi Çeşme.

The best way to experience Taksim Square is to meander the surrounding streets. This will allow you to soak up the atmosphere, admire the architecture, enjoy local food and drink, and visit the shops. Just off Taksim Square, you’ll find Istiklal Avenue, a popular pedestrian street with tourist attractions, shops, and restaurants. Go to the sophisticated Divan Brasserie Beyoğlu for an amazing Bosphorus view from its rooftop.

Madame Tussauds and Akbank Sanat Kütüphane are two popular attractions on Istiklal Avenue.

Travel Tips

• Start Early: If you want a quiet moment at Taksim Square, go early in the morning before the crowds arrive. I visited at 7 AM, and it was much calmer, letting me enjoy the space without the hustle and bustle. Plus, it’s a great time for photos with soft lighting.
• Take the Taksim–Kabataş Funicular: Skip the walk to the top of the hill and take the funicular from Taksim Square to Kabataş station. It costs around 7-10 TRY, and it’s a quick and fun way to get a view while saving your energy for more exploring.
• Explore Nearby Gezi Park: If you need a break from the busy square, walk over to Gezi Park, just a minute from Taksim. It’s a peaceful green space to relax, grab a coffee, or enjoy some quiet time before heading back into the excitement.

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Learn About Ancient History in the Istanbul Archaeological Museum

The Istanbul Archaeological Museum is one of the best tourist attractions if you love history. For starters, the museum itself is historic. In 1891, this museum became Turkey’s first museum. You’ll find it in the Eminönü district.

The Istanbul Archaeological Museum is divided into three units: the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Ancient Oriental Art, and the Tiled Pavilion Museum. The collections contain almost one million exhibits from most world cultures and periods. 

Many of the artifacts within the museum were collected during the Ottoman Empire. Some of the main things to look out for are the Alexander Sarcophagus, the Siloam inscription, and the Egyptian-Hittite peace treaty.

Travel Tips

• Take a Guided Tour: If you want to learn more about the history behind the artifacts, I suggest booking a guided tour. It’s a great way to get deeper insights and make the most of your visit. Tours usually last around 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Don’t Miss the Tiled Pavilion: It’s easy to skip, but trust me, the Tiled Pavilion is beautiful and often less crowded. It’s a short walk from the main museum buildings, and you’ll get to see amazing Ottoman-era tiles and ceramics.

Read also: Europe’s Most Walkable Cities

Step Back in Time at Topkapi Palace

Stepping back in time at Topkapi Palace is one of the best ways to learn more about Istanbul’s rich history. It’s also an excellent place to visit if you’ve always dreamt of living in a fairytale. Once the residence of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace is a large museum and library that features luxurious rooms, priceless treasures, and lush gardens. 

The palace’s interior is marvelous. You’ll adore the jewel-filled treasury, the Ottoman Imperial Harem, and the museum, which contains Ottoman armor, weapons, and clothing. Even the front gate will blow you away. 

With two towers and a tall stone wall, it screams Disney fairytale castle. Topkapi Palace can get very busy, so we recommend buying a skip-the-line ticket to avoid the queues.

Travel Tips

• Use the audio guide: I recommend grabbing an audio guide as you enter the palace. It gives detailed info about the rooms and history.
• Check out the view from the Second Courtyard: This spot offers the best view of the Bosphorus Strait. It’s a great place to snap some pics without the crowds.
• Visit the Palace after lunch: The crowds thin out a bit after 2 PM, so if you’re not a fan of busy places, that’s the perfect time to visit.

Read also: Must-Discover European City Gems

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