Top Things to Do in Istanbul, Turkey

Top 15 Best Attractions in Istanbul

Whether you’re here for a long stay or a brief visit, these 15 attractions capture the essence of Istanbul:

1. Hagia Sophia

A marvel of Byzantine architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hagia Sophia has transformed from a church to a mosque to a museum, and now a mosque again. Its enormous dome, intricate mosaics, and rich history embody Istanbul’s unique blend of cultures and eras, drawing visitors from around the world to witness its beauty.

2. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) 

Known for its stunning blue-tiled interior and grandiose design, the Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Built by Sultan Ahmed I in the early 17th century, the mosque features six towering minarets, an unusual feature in mosques, symbolising the mosque’s importance and scale.

3. Topkapi Palace

Once the opulent home of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace is a fascinating blend of history, luxury, and Islamic art. Visitors can explore the lavishly decorated rooms, the Harem, and the palace kitchens, all set within gardens offering beautiful views over the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.

4. Basilica Cistern

This subterranean marvel, built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, was designed to supply water to Istanbul’s palaces. Dimly lit and filled with hundreds of ancient columns, the Basilica Cistern is famous for its eerie Medusa-head columns and the tranquil sounds of dripping water echoing through the space.

5. Grand Bazaar

A labyrinth of over 4,000 shops, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. It’s a lively centre for buying Turkish carpets, ceramics, jewellery, spices, and more. Bargaining is expected here, making shopping as much a cultural experience as a commercial one.

6. Spice Bazaar

Smaller but equally atmospheric, the Spice Bazaar offers a colourful selection of Turkish delights, teas, dried fruits, and fragrant spices. Originating in the 17th century, this market remains a sensory feast, with vendors eager to offer samples of their goods to passing visitors.

7. Galata Tower

This medieval stone tower offers some of the best panoramic views of Istanbul, including sweeping sights of the Bosphorus, Golden Horn, and historic peninsula. Built by the Genoese in the 14th century, it has been a fire-watch tower and now serves as one of the city’s favourite photo spots.

8. Dolmabahçe Palace 

Located along the Bosphorus, this 19th-century palace combines European and Ottoman architectural influences in a stunning display of wealth. Its crystal chandeliers, expansive ballrooms, and lavish décor reflect the Ottoman Empire’s embrace of European styles during its later years.

9. Süleymaniye Mosque

Built by the celebrated Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century, this mosque is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. The mosque’s grandeur and simplicity, combined with its hilltop views over Istanbul, make it a place of both spiritual and architectural admiration.

10. Taksim Square & Istiklal Avenue

The heart of modern Istanbul, Taksim Square is a bustling space that leads into Istiklal Avenue, a pedestrianised street filled with shops, cafes, art galleries, and historic buildings. The area’s vibrant atmosphere, particularly in the evening, showcases the city’s cosmopolitan side.

11. Bosphorus Cruise

Taking a cruise along the Bosphorus is one of the best ways to see Istanbul’s unique geography, connecting Europe and Asia. The journey offers sights of palaces, fortresses, waterfront mansions, and fishing villages, all framed by Istanbul’s lush, hilly landscape.

12. Chora Church (Kariye Museum)

Known for its stunning mosaics and frescoes, the Chora Church tells the story of early Christian and Byzantine art. Located slightly outside the main tourist areas, it’s well worth the trip to see the church’s intricate artwork, particularly its depiction of biblical scenes.

13. Princes’ Islands

These nine islands in the Sea of Marmara offer a peaceful retreat from the busy city. Car-free and lushly green, the Princes’ Islands are perfect for a day trip to enjoy bike rides, horse-drawn carriages, and quaint cafes by the sea, especially popular during the warmer months.

14. The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

Situated in the Sultanahmet area, this museum houses one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of Islamic art. Visitors can admire beautiful calligraphy, manuscripts, ceramics, and carpets, gaining insight into centuries of Turkish and Islamic history and culture.

15. Ortaköy 

This lively Bosphorus-side neighbourhood is known for its impressive Ortaköy Mosque and thriving arts and crafts scene. Stroll along the waterfront, sample local street food like kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes), and soak in the evening views of the Bosphorus Bridge illuminated in the background.

Local Recommendations

To experience the real Istanbul, consider these insider tips for a more immersive experience:

• Try Traditional Turkish Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty Turkish breakfast of olives, cheeses, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, and simit, a sesame-covered bread. 


• Explore Balat and Fener: These historic neighbourhoods offer colourful streets, cafes, and an authentic look at Istanbul’s local life.


• Visit a Hamam: Experience a traditional Turkish bath at an authentic hamam, like the Çemberlitaş Hamam, which dates back to 1584.


• Dine on the Bosphorus: Try fresh seafood while enjoying views of the Bosphorus; Arnavutköy offers some of the best seafood restaurants in Istanbul.


• Stroll Through Karaköy: A trendy area with vibrant street art, cafes, and art galleries, perfect for art lovers.

FAQs about visiting Istanbul, Turkey

What shouldn’t you miss in Istanbul?

Don’t miss the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. A Bosphorus cruise offers stunning views, and the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are essential for shopping. Exploring neighbourhoods like Karaköy and Balat also gives a taste of local life.

Is 3 days in Istanbul enough?

Three days is enough to see major attractions like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and a Bosphorus cruise, but a longer stay is ideal for a deeper experience of the city’s culture and neighbourhoods.

What are the dos and don’ts in Istanbul?

Do respect local customs in mosques, dress modestly, and greet people with “Merhaba.” Don’t forget to bargain at markets, avoid discussing politics, and stay aware in crowded areas.

Is 4 days enough for Istanbul?

Yes, four days gives you time to see Istanbul’s main sights and explore local spots at a relaxed pace. You can cover major sites, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, and immerse in the local cafe and market scenes.