Things to Do in Istanbul
Plan your days in Istanbul, your way
Begin in Sultanahmet, because Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are famous for good reason, and one morning covers both.
Then let the afternoon dissolve into the Grand Bazaar's lanes, buying nothing, seeing everything.
Cross Galata Bridge on foot as fishermen reel in their lines, and climb into Karaköy's cafe streets for a slow lunch.
Take the ferry to Kadıköy just for the ride, tea in hand, seagulls for company, the skyline sliding by.
On the Asian side, wander the market streets where the city actually shops, and try whatever the longest queue is selling.
Dinner is grilled fish under the bridge or a meyhane table in Beyoğlu, depending on your mood; both are right.
One evening, ride up to Galata Tower or Pierre Loti hill for the view that finally makes the map click.
Leave a morning unplanned for Balat's colorful backstreets or a park bench on the Bosphorus, your choice.
Nothing here is extreme: a little history, a little food, a little water, a little wandering.
By the last day you will have your own favorite corner, and that is the whole point.
Top attractions and places to eat in Istanbul
Eyüp Sultan Mosque
One of Istanbul's most important Islamic sites, built around the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. Pilgrims and visitors come for its religious significance and richly decorated tilework near the Golden Horn.
attraction · 4.8 rating
Pierre Loti
A hilltop cafe and viewpoint above the Golden Horn, named after the French writer, reached by a cable car. Visitors go for the panoramic view of Istanbul's waterway while enjoying Turkish tea.
cafe · 4.3 rating
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
A monumental sixth-century structure that served as a Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque, now functioning as a mosque. Travelers visit for its immense dome, mosaics, and layered Byzantine-Ottoman history.
attraction · 4.6 rating
The Blue Mosque
The 17th-century Sultan Ahmed Mosque, famous for its six minarets and cascade of domes adorned with blue İznik tiles. It is one of Istanbul's most iconic religious and architectural landmarks.
attraction · 4.5 rating
Basilica Cistern
An ancient underground water reservoir built in the 6th century under Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, featuring rows of columns and the famous Medusa head bases. Travelers visit for its atmospheric, dimly lit subterranean chambers and Roman engineering.
attraction · 4.5 rating · 1950 TRY
Topkapı Palace Harem Units
The private residential quarters within Topkapı Palace where the sultan's family and consorts lived, richly decorated with tiles and ornate rooms. It offers a deeper glimpse into Ottoman court life.
attraction · 4.5 rating
Sultanahmet District
Historic old section of Istanbul home to Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque.
neighborhood · 4.7 rating
Rumeli Fortress
A large 15th-century Ottoman fortress built by Mehmed II on the European shore of the Bosphorus before the conquest of Constantinople. Visitors explore its towers and walls and enjoy sweeping views of the strait.
attraction · 4.5 rating
Çiya Sofrası
A beloved Kadıköy restaurant renowned for regional Anatolian dishes and forgotten recipes from across Turkey served buffet-style. A destination for authentic, diverse Turkish home cooking.
restaurant · 4 rating
Grand Bazaar
One of the world's oldest and largest covered markets, with thousands of shops selling carpets, jewelry, ceramics, and spices. Travelers come for shopping, atmosphere, and historic architecture.
attraction · 4 rating
Suleymaniye Mosque
A monumental 16th-century imperial mosque designed by Mimar Sinan, crowning one of Istanbul's hills with grand domes and panoramic views over the Golden Horn. It is one of the city's most celebrated Ottoman landmarks.
attraction · 4.7 rating
Bosphorus Strait
Strait separating Europe and Asia, popular for scenic cruises.
attraction · 4.6 rating
Galata Tower
A medieval stone tower in the Galata district offering panoramic views over Istanbul and the Golden Horn from its upper viewing gallery. Travelers ascend for the sweeping city vistas and its landmark status.
attraction · 4.3 rating · €30
Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta
A historic meatball restaurant in Istanbul's Sultanahmet district famous for its grilled köfte served with beans and pickles. A go-to for travelers wanting a classic, no-frills Turkish comfort meal near the major sights.
restaurant · 4.1 rating
Kanaat Lokantası
A long-standing Üsküdar tradesmen's restaurant serving classic Turkish home-style dishes and desserts since the early 20th century. A go-to for authentic, everyday Turkish cooking.
restaurant · 3.7 rating