Istanbul, the capital city of Turkey, steeped in history, culture, and incredible sights stands as the meeting point of Europe and Asia. Istanbul offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences that you will notice in its architecture, food, and vibrant atmosphere. I fell in love with Istanbul and I believe it is a city I will keep going back to. There are so many reasons to visit Istanbul: I truly believe it deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list! This guide will take you through what I think are the best things to do in Istanbul.
Good to know before you go!
Not interested? Skip down to 17 best things to do while in Istanbul.
Best time to visit Istanbul
Istanbul enjoys a transitional Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences hot, dry summers and mild, wet, and somewhat cold winters.
Spring and autumn are typically the best times to visit Istanbul. The temperature is mild, and there are fewer crowds. During summer, temperatures can reach 30°C or higher, making it the peak tourist season, which also means more crowds and higher prices. Winter in Istanbul can be cold, averaging around 5-10°C (41-50°F), but it offers a quieter experience with Christmas decorations and markets.
Flights to Istanbul
Istanbul’s main international airport is ?stanbul Havaliman? (IST). You will have no difficulty finding flights here with many budget airlines flying direct from main European cities including Peagus Airlines & Wizz. In addition Turkeys national carrier Turkish Airlines offer competitive prices but are a full service airline meaning you will get a meal a bit more comfort.
Remember that flight prices can fluctuate, and it’s essential to compare fares across different airlines and booking platforms. I prefer to use Skyscanner so I can compare all airlines, dates and times.
Getting from the airport
Istanbul’s main airport is located approximately 45km from Istanbul city. This journey can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on the traffic.
Private transfer
A private transfer involves being picked up by a driver at the arrivals hall. You pay at the time of booking, which is great because it eliminates the need to convert currency when you land. I like to use Airport Transfer. Prices start at 800 TRY / €30.
Public transport
Although the metro runs through Istanbul airport, you need to switch lines a few times to get to the main tourist areas. While it is affordable, it may not be the easiest option.
Istanbul Airport to Taksim: Take the M11 Kagithane airport metro to Kagithane, transfer to the M7 Yildiz – Mahmutbey Line to Mecidiyekoy, then take the M2 Yenikapi – Haciosman Line to Taksim station.
Istanbul Airport to Be?ikta?: Take the M11 Kagithane airport metro to Kagithane, transfer to the M7 Yildiz – Mahmutbey Line to Mecidiyekoy. From here, you will need to take the DT1 bus.
Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet: Take the M11 Kagithane airport metro to Kagithane, transfer to the M7 Yildiz – Mahmutbey Line to Mecidiyekoy, transfer again to the M2 Yenikapi – Haciosman Line to Taksim station. Transfer to the F1 Taksim – Kabatas Funicular to Kabatas, and finally switch to the T1 Kabatas – Bagcilar Tram line. Get off at the Sultanahmet stop.
Getting around Istanbul
Istanbul is a big city, but many of the tourist attractions are within walking distance. Transportation in Istanbul is well-developed, offering a range of options for efficient city navigation. You have the option of using the metro, tram, ferries, and buses.
If you plan to use public transport, consider purchasing an Istanbulkart—a reusable contactless smart card. It is a prepaid card that can be used for multiple trips. The Istanbulkart also provides discounted fares compared to purchasing single tickets, making it cost-effective for regular travelers. The cost of the card is 50 liras.
You can purchase the Istanbulkart in the airport, mobile app or in metro stations.
Airport: located at the -2 level arrivals hall from the yellow and blue machines, authorised exchange counters or the airport shuttle counters (Havaist) which are beside the exits.
Stations: purchase from the yellow/blue ticket machines (called biletmatik) at subway, ferry, tram, bus and funicular stations.
Mobile App: search for “istanbulkart” in the app store
Where to stay in Istanbul?
For exploring the city, I think Taksim, Be?ikta?, and Sultanahmet are the best areas to stay. Staying here allows you to be close to all the top attractions and be in the midst of all the bustle.
I found some really nice hotels in these areas that you might want to bookmark for later.
Taksim
central, shopping, restaurants, entertainment
Bonne Sante Hotel
The Marmara Taksim
Taksim No 44
Midtown Hotel
CVK Park Bosphorus
Taximist Hotel
Be?ikta?
nightlife, arts, culture, great food
Mövenpick Hotel
Bosphorus Symbola
Serenity Hotel
Melas Hotel
Feri Suites
Renaissance
Sultanahmet
old Istanbul, historic sights
Deluxe Golden Horn
Peyk Hotel
Henna Hotel
The Magnaura Palace
RW Boutique Hotel
Hotel Erguvan
Is Istanbul safe?
It is no secret that Istanbul has been the target of terror attacks for the last number of years, most recently in October 2022. Personally, this was a factor that I took into account when deciding whether to travel to Istanbul. I would be lying if I said it did not make me anxious. If, like me, you feel anxious, hopefully I can put your mind at rest.
Firstly, security is on high alert. You cannot enter a shopping centre or subway station without going through metal detectors. Cars are also checked for anything in the boot and undercarriage. There is a strong police presence on the streets, which adds to the feeling of safety.
Secondly, nowhere is really 100% safe. Your chances of getting caught up in a terror attack are extremely unlikely, so do not miss out on a fantastic city or country due to the fear of being there at the wrong time. Just be cautious about where you are and what is around you.
What to wear in Istanbul
I had never visited a predominantly Muslim country before and had a lot of questions about what would be appropriate to wear while in Istanbul. I read a number of blogs advising to dress conservatively, whereas others said to wear whatever you like. So, what should you wear in Istanbul?
I arrived to a temperature of 30°C with a bag full of shorts and mini dresses after a summer in Spain, Italy, and Greece, assuming I could wear them in Istanbul—a major and diverse international city. On the first evening I arrived, I went to a grocery shop in my airport outfit: shorts and a baggy AC/DC t-shirt. It was not revealing, but I felt completely out of place and got some unwanted male attention.
My accommodation was located in Umraniye, a more local area where, from my observation, about 95% of females wore either the hijab or burqa. I did not want to appear disrespectful, so the next day I purchased some cheap full-length trousers and leggings, which became my staple pieces for the next month.
However, when I was in the city centre areas such as Taksim, Besiktas, and Sultanahmet, I noticed many females wearing short dresses, low-cut tops, and, in general, just dressing less conservatively. So, my advice would be to pack a few conservative items if you are staying outside the main central areas. Sure, you won’t get into trouble, but it will just help you blend in and feel more comfortable among the locals.
Is Istanbul expensive?
Istanbul is completely doable on a budget, your money goes a very long way here. I will discuss what my experience was, as a traveller with a mid range budget.
Dining was a surprise for me, I found as long as I stayed away from super touristy areas (ie galata tower) I could enjoy a delicious Turkish meal for approximately €7. Street food such as kebabs are even more affordable at €1-€2. Coffee costs about €1.50 per cup, even Starbucks who are notoriously expensive are very affordable, I was able to buy 2 coffees and 1 cake for just under €4.
The biggest expense are tickets for attractions such as Basilica cistern 300 TRY and Topkapi Palace 500 – 650 TRY.
On average, a mid-range hotel in a central location can range from 150-300 Turkish Lira (TRY) per night. Luxury hotels and boutique accommodations can cost significantly more, starting from around 400 TRY and going up to several thousand TRY per night. Istanbul also has a good selection of hostels and guesthouses. Dormitory beds in hostels typically range from 40-100 TRY per night, while private rooms in guesthouses can start from around 100-200 TRY per night. You can also find Airbnb options starting from around 150-300 TRY per night for a private room and higher for entire apartments.
17 Best Things To Do In Istanbul
1. Haiga Sophia & Blue Mosque
As a non-Muslim, visiting the Hagia Sophia Mosque in Istanbul can still be a fascinating and enriching experience for several reasons. The greatest for me is that it allows you to witness the spiritual devotion and rituals of Muslim worshippers. Observing the prayer sessions and experiencing the serene atmosphere offered me a profound insight into Islamic traditions and practices; consequently, I left with a greater understanding and appreciation of the faith. As you walk through the mosque, the devotion is palpable. It is something I had never felt before, and as someone who is often unsure of their faith, I found it inspiring.
Originally built as a Byzantine church in the 6th century, it later became a mosque and eventually a museum. Its impressive dome, intricate mosaics, and stunning architecture showcase the fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman influences, it is a masterpiece of cultural heritage.
Visiting Haiga Sophia & Blue Mosque is an experience that can broaden your perspective and deepen your appreciation for the city’s rich tapestry of art, history, and faith.
TIP: you will be required to cover your hair, shoulders and legs. No shoes are permitted inside the mosque.
2. Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest markets in the world, dating back to the 15th century. Within its labyrinthine alleys there are over 4,000 shops of stalls to explore, from traditional Turkish rugs, ceramics and jewellery to spices, textiles, clothing and accessories.
It is not all about shopping though, tasting the local delicacies is a major part of any visit to the Grand Bazaar, here you can find a large selection of Turkish sweets, coffees and tea. It was here I became obsessed with Turkish delight!
3. Experience where east meets west
One of the things that had always fascinated me about Istanbul was that you can be in two continents at once: Europe and Asia! Istanbul truly is the place where East meets West. Some people just cross the river on a ferry and head straight back, but the Asian side has a lot to offer too, albeit mostly residential. There are regular water taxis that connect the two halves. I recommend taking the ferry to Kad?köy, which offers a lot to explore. The water ferries are an experience in themselves. Staying in Umraniye, I had to take them a lot. After the initial chaos of boarding, it is a quick and relaxing way to get around.
Recommended tour: Asian Side Walking Tour with Ferry Ride
4. Take a cruise on the Bosphorus
The Bosphorus divides the European and Asian continents. Along its banks are buildings from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras, ornate mosques, lively markets, and waterside cafes. It is a hub of activity with tourists and ferries passing by, guaranteeing incredible views.
Morning, day, and night, the views are stunning. Personally, I love a good sunset view, but here are a few different options:
Dinner cruise – Enjoy a 3 course meal with live music or dancing while seeing Istanbul lit up at night.
Sunset cruise – 3 hour cruise with an audio guide and snacks.
If you prefer to go in the day then I recommend you take a regular passenger ferry. You will have the same view and its actually quite comfortable.
5. Galata Tower
Galata Tower, an iconic landmark located in the lively and vibrant neighbourhood of Beyo?lu. You can climb the tower’s narrow and winding 146 steps which lead you to the observation deck, here you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait, the Golden Horn, and the city’s famous domes and minarets.
Built in the 14th century, Galata Tower stands as a testament to Istanbul’s rich past. Originally a part of the Genoese fortifications, it later served as a fire tower and an observation point for the city.
Book tickets online: Galata Tower Entrance Ticket and Audio Guide
6. Istiklâl Avenue
?stiklâl Avenue is one of Istanbuls most liveliest streets, with its constant flow of locals, tourists, and street performers. Although there are plenty of shops to get your retail therapy fix for me the main appeal of the avenue was the extensive number of street food places, the aromas of kebabs and baklava’s fill the street.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the historic Çiçek Pasaj? (Flower Passage) with its charming shops and cafes.
7. Get your fill of Baclava
Small, sweet, and sticky filo pastry cubes layered with chopped nuts and drenched in honey. These are heavenly – I am not even exaggerating. Your sweet tooth will forever crave these bad boys. They are the perfect after-dinner bite especially with a hot tea or coffee.
While you can find amazing baklava all over Istanbul the area Karaköy is famed for its baklava, you can find many bakeries serving the best baklava you will find in Istanbul. I recommend Karaköy Güllüo?lu, Beyzade, Osmanlizadeler 1879.
Indulging on these little pastries is one of the best things to do in Istanbul!
8. Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace was once the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for almost four centuries, it holds immense historical significance. Exploring the palace’s chambers, halls, and pavilions provides insights into what the lives of the ruling elite, their traditions, and their opulent lifestyle were like. Additionally, from the Harem section to the Imperial Treasury, each area of the palace reveals a different side of the empire’s legacy.
Not only is the interior stunning the palace is also in a spectacular location, situated on a promontory overlooking the Bosphorus, the Sea of Marmara, and the Golden Horn. Within the palace complex, you can also find large gardens with beautiful flowers, fountains, and pavilions. That is why it is one of the best things to do in Istanbul.
Book tour: Topkapi Palace Guided Tour and Skip The Line
9. Experience the Nightlife
The best place, in my opinion, to experience Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife is Be?ikta?. Often referred to as the culture and art capital of Istanbul, Be?ikta? is a popular area located on the European side of the city. Moreover, it is a trendy and lively area with many affordable bars and restaurants.
Black Corner Pub has happy hour until 6pm, Craft Beer Lab has a wide selection of beer, Wom has live music, and Joker No.19 serves up tasty cocktails.
On your own? Join a group night out:
7-Hour Pub Crawl: Big Night Out
Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus
10. San Sebastian
Turkish food is incredible, you can read my post on all the Turkish food I recommend you try here.
The San Sebastian cheesecake or as it is also known Basque cheesecake, had a bit of a well deserved social media moment in 2022. The popular cake is made of cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and heavy cream. The cheesecake is typically baked at a high temperature, which creates the caramelised top while keeping the centre creamy and smooth. It is then usually topped with a rich milk chocolate sauce.
The cheesecake in the photo is from Sirinfirin bakery. A few other highly rated places to get your san sebastian cheesecake fix are: Chefisen ?stanbul, Viyana Kahvesi Galata, 9KAHVE TOMTOM, Mado.
11. Turkish Hammam
Give yourself some respite; holidays should be relaxing, too, right? A Turkish Hammam is THE ultimate pamper session and a major part of Turkish culture.
If you are anything like me, you might feel intimidated by a public bath. I promise you it is incredibly soothing and not awkward at all! The attendant, also known as a “natir” or “tellak,” is completely professional. It feels no different from a massage.
So, what exactly is involved?
1. you will spend some time in the steam room to open those pores and encourage detoxification
2. next step is exfoliation using a coarse mitt called kese
3. you will then be soaped up with olive oil soap and massaged on a heated marble tile called “göbek ta??”
4. the soap is washed off away from the marble tile
5. spend some time to relax alone, most Hammams will serve a beverage such as tea or juice.
Some well known Hammans to try are Cagaloglu, Catma Mescit Hamami, and Cukurcuma Hamami.
12. Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern, also known as the Sunken Palace, is an underground water storage system that once supplied water to the Great Palace of Constantinople. Stretching over an area of 9,800 square meters, it can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water. As visitors wander the long walkways, the area is dark with atmospheric lighting, and it is almost silent with the exception of dripping water.
Today, the Basilica Cistern has also become a popular filming location for movies including Inferno (2016), From Russia With Love (1963), and The International (2009).
I reccommend to purchase skip the line tickets, the day we visited we had to queue for 25 minutes in the heat.
13. Explore Istanbul’s Coffee Culture
I love coffee, and I especially love landing in a country where coffee is an important part of people’s day. Since the 16th century, coffeehouses have been the centre of social gatherings in Istanbul – places for catching up, doing business, and sharing stories.
If you’re a coffee connoisseur, you will enjoy Turkish coffee, also known as Türk kahvesi. The traditional way to prepare Turkish coffee is by using finely ground coffee beans boiled in a small copper pot called a “cezve.” The thick and aromatic coffee is typically served in a small cup, accompanied by a glass of water and a piece of Turkish delight. It’s a coffee that should be experienced slowly.
Aside from the more traditional coffee shops, Istanbul also boasts a large range of trendy cafes serving international coffee. These establishments stay open late and tend to be quite lively compared to the typical European coffee shop, which is usually quiet.
14. Go Shopping
The shopping in Istanbul is incredible, there are many luxurious shopping centres with incredible architecture and food courts. The shopping centres are insane, the design, the facilities and the wide range of designer and high street shops. You can also get many items cheaper than what in US and Europe.
Some centres to check out are Zorlu centre, Cevahir Shopping Mall, ?stinye Park, Forum Istanbul.
15. Witness the Whirling Dervishes
Officially referred to as the “Mevlevi Sema ceremony”, this ritual holds spiritual and symbolic significance for adherents of the Mevlevi Order, a Sufi tradition established by Rumi. The performers dress in white clothing and tall hats, while spinning to Sufi music. The dance serves as a representation of a spiritual voyage towards God, a detachment from daily mundane concerns, and finally reaching a unity with the divine. The idea is to connect with the divine through active meditation and devotion.
The experience is completely mesmerising, it is a deeply religious event that requires the audience to be totally silent with no photography allowed. I found it so interesting to feel that level of devotion in the room and encourage you to come with an open mind.
I booked this ceremony located in HodjaPasha Culture Center, a restored 550 year old Turkish bath.
16. Watch the sun go down
The sunset in Istanbul really blew my mind. Almost every evening the sky turns shades of orange, pink, and gold offering a mesmerising backdrop for the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and the more modern skyscrapers in the skyline.
Enjoy the sunset sipping on a cocktail at a rooftop bar or simply just sitting on the Bosphorus with a tea and baklava. It will leave you in awe and you will always remember it as one of the best things to do in Istanbul.
17. Make friends in U2
U2 is a small Irish bar in Taksim, owned by Leo, a kind, warm, and charismatic local man. Although I like to experience more traditional local bars, I do enjoy an Irish bar. Ironically, I learned so much about Turkish hospitality and living in Istanbul while in the bar!
From the moment we walked in, Leo introduced himself, the other customers (an English man, an Irish man, and a Russian man – there must be a joke there somewhere), and made us a part of the conversation. He stood at the bar, asking questions, making jokes, and telling stories. He even got me behind the bar to pour free shots for everyone. Although Leo has never visited Ireland, his pub is packed full of GAA jerseys, hurls, and other Irish memorabilia, while the TV blares classic Irish music, to which he knows all the words.
If you want to make friends, have insightful conversations, and simply have a good laugh with likely the kindest man in Turkey, then you will not regret a night out at U2. It truly is one of the best things to do in Istanbul.
Where to Eat in Istanbul
The food in Istanbul blew me away, a combination of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Balkan cuisines. Below were some of my favourite places to eat or have a coffee, clicking on each of them will take you to google maps so you can save it for your trip.
The ottomans kitchen cafe restaurant – authentic and high quality Turkish meals located close to Sultanahmet Square. Complimentary tea & baclava at the end of the meal. Prices are approximately 350 TRY per person.
Turk Art Terrace Restaurant – incredible terrace with views of the Hagia Sophia and city. Classic Turkish meals. Mains cost approximately 200 TL and appetisers are between 60 and 130 TL. It is a fancy restaurant so you can use it as an excuse to wear that new dress!
Mivan Restaurant & Cafe – beautiful small restaurant tucked away down an alley. The kebabs are so juicy and the staff are so nice. 200 – 300 TL for most mains.
Mardin Et Ve Kebap Salonu – super tasty kebabs and lahmucans. Close to the Grand Bazaar. Approximately 200 TL per person.
Kebapci Cavus Durum Evi – everything here was so good, kebabs, coffee, baklava, borek, trust me you are gonna want to try it all!
Coffee No.4. – great coffee in a quiet cafe. You can try traditional Turkish coffee prepared in sand.
Lalezar Teras Cafe – coffee, cake and an incredible view of the Bosphorus and Golden Horn
Sirinfirin bakery – the san sebastian cheesescake is to die for. This place is beside Galata tower.
If you are unsure of what to eat then I encourage you to book a food tour where a local will show you the best spots and must try food! This food tour takes you to street vendors and markets.
Please note some of my links are affiliate links, if you purchase via the link I might make a small commission, this does not affect the price for you. However, I never include links to places or experiences I would not stay in or do myself, they are carefully selected.
Having these links allow me to cover the costs of running this website.
Thank you for understanding ????