10 Best Things to do in Istanbul

What makes Istanbul unique? It is a transcontinental city in Eurasia where you can find historic museums, ancient monuments, minarets, Eastern Orthodox churches, hammams, humongous covered bazaars, and old neighborhoods dotted with skyscrapers, luxury hotels and malls, giving the metropolis a unique, interesting character. More than enough reasons to explore it. Its savory cuisine is a bonus. Also, the Bosphorus strait, which connects Europe to Asia, is located in Istanbul.

Discover Istanbul’s splendor by using this guide as a reference in selecting the must-see places and the best things to do in Istanbul.

1. Experience old-world charm at Hagia Sophia Museum.

Hagia Sophia, one of Istanbul’s most impressive museums, is one of the oldest surviving churches on earth. It was built as a Byzantine cathedral and functioned as a church for 916 years. It was then converted into a mosque and functioned as one for 482 years. Hagia Sophia is one of the country’s grandest temples. It showcases the charms of both Christianity and Islam, making it worth visiting.

Now a museum, you’ll be in awe when you visit this historic structure, adorned in breathtaking mosaics and grandiose works of art.

2. Admire the lavish Blue Mosque.

Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as Sultanahmet Mosque, is Blue Mosque to many travelers because of the blue tiles mosaic on its walls. It is one of the most iconic and breathtaking buildings that adorns the city skyline, making it among the must-see Istanbul attractions.

It is an active place of worship so dress appropriately when visiting. Also, note the prayer times which happen five times a day; they close the mosque to visitors during those times.

3. Explore Basilica Cistern.

Basilica Cistern, known locally as Yerebatan Sarayi (Sunken Palace) and Yerebatan Sarnici (Sunken Cistern), is one of the most impressive structures in Turkey. This cathedral-size cistern is the largest and most celebrated among many underground reservoirs in Istanbul.

If you would like to see something different when you visit Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern offers something spectacular.

And if you’re a James Bond fan, you will easily recognize the cistern—it is where James Bond (Sean Connery) in the movie From Russia With Love paddled through to move underneath the city.

4. Learn about Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace.

Topkapi Palace, located in massive four courtyards with gardens, fountains, and buildings, was once home (and administrative headquarters) to the Ottoman sultans and their harems. It was then converted into a museum, showcasing artifacts from the Ottoman period.

Tour Hagia Irene (Greek Eastern Orthodox church) and Imperial Mint (produced the empire’s gold and silver coins) at the first courtyard. Explore the Tower of Justice, the Imperial Treasury, the Gate of Felicity, the colossal kitchens and porcelain collection at the second courtyard.

Visit the lush garden at the third courtyard, also called the Inner Palace since it is the heart of Topkapi Palace. The garden is surrounded by the Hall of the Privy Chamber, the treasury building, the Imperial Harem, and the library of Ahmed III.

Explore the Circumcision Room as well as the number of pavilions, kiosks, terraces, and gardens at the fourth courtyard, also known as the Imperial Sofa which served as the private sanctuary of the sultans and their families.

5. Shop like a local at the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market.

Visit one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, the Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. Prepare to get lost as you browse over 4,000 vibrant stalls sprawling across more than 60 streets.

Decide what to take home as you feast your eyes on the wide variety of goods, from jewelry to antiques, carpets, textiles, and edible souvenirs.

At Spice Bazaar, you will find rows of colorful shops selling an array of spices and herbs, Turkish delights and other sweets, dried fruits and nuts, and a variety of souvenirs.

6. Cruise Bosphorus Strait.

Taking a cruise on Bosphorus, a strait located in northwestern Turkey and connects Europe to Asia, is one of the best ways to discover the beauty of Istanbul.

Imagine traveling between the two continents while exploring the historical shoreline of Bosphorus and watching the beautiful stretch of palaces, interesting buildings, lovely gardens, and fascinating neighborhoods from the shore.

Nothing beats this spectacular cruise experience!

7. Enjoy the city view from Galata Tower.

When exploring the city, you can’t miss the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi in Turkish). It is a cone-capped medieval stone monument that dominates the city’s skyline.

Enjoy the picturesque views of Istanbul at the observation deck of the nine-story tower, or at the restaurant and café on the upper floors. You can also watch Turkish shows at the tower’s nightclub.

8. Ride the Eyup Gondola cable car on Pierre Loti Hill.

How else can you take in the stunning view of the city? Eyup Gondola, also known as Eyup–Piyerloti Aerial Cable Car that serves the Pierre Loti hill, offers a scenic view of the Golden Horn coast. They named the hill after the French naval officer and novelist Pierre Loti who used to visit the area.

While at the site, see the popular café where Loti used to drink his Turkish coffee. You can also visit the Eyup Sultan Mosque, one of the holiest and most important mosques in Turkey.

9. Experience Turkish Hammam.

Experiencing the authentic Turkish bath—the Islamic version of ancient Roman baths—is another must-do for travelers to Istanbul. Enter a Turkish hammam and discover how locals embrace this historical, traditional relaxation method. Enjoy some spa time, the Turkish way, with a tellak (masseur) to massage and scrub you.

Note that there are separate sections for men and women.  

10. Savor Turkish flavors.

To complete your trip, make sure you try all the scrumptious Turkish dishes at the traditional eateries, from the classic kebab (grilled meat) to pide (Turkish pizza), baklava and Turkish delights.

Explore Istanbul’s food culture by trying their street food, including pogaca (a popular breakfast pastry), cig kofte or chee kofta (raw meatball) and lokma (fried sweet dough).

Another popular gourmet is the Turkish cheese. The locals normally eat with the iconic simit (circular sesame-crusted bread) and tea. Try raki too, and discover why it is Turkish’s favorite alcoholic beverage during special occasions.

For updates and more travel ideas and inspiration, follow Travel Asia Now on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.