What to do in Istanbul

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal cityscape with a prominent mosque, a bridge, and a bustling harbor.
A historic cityscape with a prominent mosque featuring multiple domes and minarets, illuminated against a sunset sky.
A waterfront cityscape with a prominent tower, a bridge with restaurants, and a bustling waterfront area.
A waterfront with boats, a prominent tower, and historic buildings.
A historic building with a large dome and minarets, surrounded by a river and urban landscape.

Things to do

Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Night Show

Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Night Show

Rp551.916
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Night Show
Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

Rp574.912
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
Istanbul:Sultanahmet Old City Tour with Lunch and Transfer

Istanbul:Sultanahmet Old City Tour with Lunch and Transfer

Rp202.024
per adult
Istanbul:Sultanahmet Old City Tour with Lunch and Transfer
Picture 1 for Activity Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Sunset Option

Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Sunset Option

Rp202.024
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Sunset Option
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise

Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)

Rp545.465
per adult
82% of travellers recommend
Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show

Rp545.263
per adult
78% of travellers recommend
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show
Istanbul Sapphire Observation Deck Entrance

Istanbul Sapphire Observation Deck Entrance

Rp335.158
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Istanbul Sapphire Observation Deck Entrance
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Top places to visit

1. Hagia Sophia

As one of the finest architectural marvels, as well as one of the largest churches, in the world, Hagia Sophia is Istanbul’s most famous landmark. The building you see today represents many cultures.

Known in Turkish as “Ayasofya” (Sacred Wisdom), Hagia Sophia has been of major religious importance to the region, and for various faiths. The church was first commissioned by the Romans and was opened in A.D. 360 before becoming Constantinople’s main Christian place of worship. After riots destroyed the building not once but twice, a new basilica was eventually built in the sixth century, and the Hagia Sophia became the center of Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
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A historic mosque with a large central dome and two minarets, surrounded by trees and a reflective pool.

2. Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) lies between the Bayezid and Nuruosmaniye mosques, and covers an enormous area. Once you enter one of its 21 gates and start exploring, it’s clear that this is one of the largest bazaars in the world. Under its seemingly endless roofs you can find glazed tiles, spices, pottery, brassware, leather accessories, belly-dancing costumes, pipes and ashtrays, among other curiosa and crafts.
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A bustling market with colorful stalls and a patterned ceiling.

3. Galata Tower

When it was built, the stone Galata Tower was the tallest structure in Istanbul, its nine stories rising high to nearly 220 feet (67 meters).
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A cityscape with a prominent tower, a river with boats, and a mix of historic and modern buildings.

4. Blue Mosque

As one of the most striking features of the Istanbul skyline, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is awe-inspiring in size and scope. More often called the Blue Mosque, it was built under the rule of Sultan Ahmed I of the Ottoman Empire and completed in 1616. The original architect’s vision was to build a great religious site with prominent Islamic features.
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A mosque with multiple domes and minarets.

5. Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is among the best preserved Ottoman palaces, located on the spot where settlement in Istanbul began. A visit to its quarters provides insight into the Ottoman history of the Turkish city. The 15th-century Topkapi Palace was converted into a museum under Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, in 1924.
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A historic stone gate with two towers, a clear sky, and a pathway leading to the entrance.

What to do in Istanbul

Stay near popular Istanbul attractions

A tram in a city square with buildings and flags.

Taksim Square

8.8/10 (27,914 reviews)
Taksim Square pulses as modern Istanbul's vibrant heart, marked by the Republic Monument and gateway to bustling Istiklal Avenue. Savour Turkish cuisine at diverse eateries or explore side streets for hidden cafes.
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Where to stay in Istanbul

Find the best Istanbul areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Istanbul
Learn more about Istanbul
A fountain with water jets in a circular pool, a mosque with multiple minarets, and palm trees in the foreground.

Sultanahmet

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Hagia Sophia to Sultanahmet Square – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.

A coastal cityscape with a prominent bridge, historic buildings, and a harbor filled with boats.

Beyoğlu

Enjoy the popular shops in Beyoğlu. Taksim Square is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Tophane Station to see more of Istanbul.

A coastal building with a red roof, white walls, and a flag on top, situated on a rocky shoreline with calm sea in the background.

Kadıköy

You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Kadıköy. Spend some time visiting top spots like Bosphorus, and catch the metro at Bahariye Station or Acibadem Station to see more of the area.

A cobblestone street lined with cafes and shops, with people walking and tables set outside.

Nişantaşı

You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Nişantaşı. Spend some time visiting top spots like Abdi Ipekci Street, and catch the metro at Maçka Cable Car Station or Taşkışla Cable Car Station to see more of the area.

An ornate building with intricate carvings and a grand staircase.

Şişli

Travellers love Şişli for its popular shops, and you can see more of Istanbul by jumping on the metro at Sisli Station or Osmanbey Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Bomontiada and Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre.

Day trip destinations from Istanbul

A coastal area with a pier, rocky shoreline, and a distant ship.

Silivri

A river flowing through a city with a bridge, green spaces, and historic buildings.

Eyup

A bridge spanning a river, with city buildings and greenery in the foreground.

Arnavutköy

A large suspension bridge spanning a deep blue body of water, with a clear sky in the background.

Gebze

A cityscape with a prominent bridge, domed buildings, and a waterfront.

Tuzla

A coastal landscape with a lighthouse, rocky cliffs, and a clear blue sky.

Şile

An aerial view of a coastal town with a harbor, boats, and a mountainous backdrop.

Adalar

A hazy view of a large suspension bridge with multiple lanes, surrounded by a hilly landscape with sparse vegetation and industrial buildings in the background.

Derince

Frequently asked questions

Is Istanbul worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Istanbul is explore Hagia Sophia. Tick this major attraction off your list, then experience more of this area's culture and history.
How do I spend a day in Istanbul?
Start your adventures with a visit to Hagia Sophia and Galata Tower. Then, check out other parts of Istanbul for a bite to eat and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Istanbul?
The top tourist attraction in Istanbul is Hagia Sophia, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Istanbul?
You can easily tick off top attractions like Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower and Topkapi Palace with a three-day trip to Istanbul. On average, most travellers book four days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to Arnavutköy.
Is Istanbul a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Istanbul is a good destination to visit on foot. Wander between Hagia Sophia and Galata Tower. Then take a stroll around Fatih, located 3 kilometers from the centre, and Old City, which is roughly 0.16 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Istanbul with kids?
Planning what to do in Istanbul with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or little ones, there are many family-friendly sights to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Istanbul for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are lots of things to do in Istanbul for adults including Istiklal Avenue and Sinan Erdem Dome.
Are there free things to do in Istanbul?
One of the simplest ways to learn about free things to do in Istanbul is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without taking your wallet out. Bağdat Avenue is one sight that doesn't charge an admission fee.

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