Things to do · Istanbul, Turkey
Things to Do in Istanbul
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- Getting there
- Istanbul is served by three airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) about 34 km west of the historic centre, Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) roughly 33 km to the southeast, and the now‑closed Atatürk (ISL) which still handles some domestic traffic about 12 km away. Most visitors arrive on flights from Europe, the Middle East or via a US connection, and the city is also reachable by high‑speed rail from Ankara or by major highways linking the Balkans and the Caucasus.
- Who goes
- Around 13 million tourists visit Istanbul each year, drawn by its mix of ancient sites, vibrant markets and lively food scene. History buffs, photographers and food lovers dominate the crowd, with the peak season running from May through October and the quietest months typically being January and February.
- Budgeting
- A careful traveler can expect to spend roughly 400–600 TRY per day (about $22–$33), while a more comfortable pace might run 800–1,200 TRY (approximately $44–$66). Accommodation and restaurant meals usually take up the biggest share of the budget; a reliable way to save is to rely on the city’s extensive public ferry network and street‑food stalls for meals. Estimate →
Eyüp Sultan Mosque
attraction · 4.8 rating
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.
Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
attraction · 4.6 rating
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.
The Blue Mosque
attraction · 4.5 rating
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.
Basilica Cistern
attraction · 4.5 rating · 1950 TRY
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.
Topkapı Palace Harem Units
attraction · 4.5 rating
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.
Sultanahmet District
neighborhood · 4.7 rating
Historic old section of Istanbul home to Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque.
Rumeli Fortress
attraction · 4.5 rating
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.
Grand Bazaar
attraction · 4 rating
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.
Suleymaniye Mosque
attraction · 4.7 rating
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.
Bosphorus Strait
attraction · 4.6 rating
Strait separating Europe and Asia, popular for scenic cruises.
Galata Tower
attraction · 4.3 rating · €30
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.
Istiklal Caddesi
landmark · 4.2 rating
Cobblestone pedestrian street lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, and cinemas.
Sultanahmet Square
attraction · 4.7 rating
The historic public square on the site of the ancient Hippodrome, surrounded by the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and ancient obelisks. It is a central gathering point and starting place for exploring old Istanbul.
Hippodrome Stone Seat
attraction · 3.9 rating
A surviving stone seating remnant from the ancient Byzantine Hippodrome, once a chariot-racing arena in Constantinople. Travelers view it as a tangible trace of the city's classical past.
Eminonu Square
landmark · 4.4 rating
Busy waterfront square near the Grand Bazaar with ferry terminals and markets.
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