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Wander-Lush

42 Things to Know Before You Visit Istanbul: Helpful Istanbul Travel Tips

Istanbul is a magnificent beast.

Thirty-nine districts, 15 million people, and 1700-plus years of history – it’s still difficult for me to wrap my head around a city of this scale.

I never know where to begin with Istanbul. And yet every time I arrive, I somehow feel instantly at ease. Turkey’s biggest metropolis has a way of encircling you, sweeping you up and taking you along for the ride. For me, it’s one of those places where it’s best to relinquish expectations and anxieties and just go with the flow.

That’s easier said than done, and there are countless tidbits I wish I had known before I visited Istanbul for the first time back in 2019. On my recent re-visit, there were many more things I noticed for the first time.

I struggled to whittle this list down to a digestible size – not because travelling in Istanbul is particularly complicated or difficult, but because when you’re dealing with a city of such incredible breadth and depth, there’s just so much to talk about.

Here are 42 Istanbul tips that I think every traveller will benefit from , including cultural quirks, itinerary planning tips, logistics hints, and common faux pas.

• Also read: The perfect itinerary for 4 days in Istanbul

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Istanbul quick links

• Istanbul airport transfer: Private transfer from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen (from $27)
• Where to stay in Istanbul: Hostel Le Banc (budget); 38 Hotel (mid-range); Hotel Empress Zoe (boutique); Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (luxury)
• Istanbul Official E-Pass: Pre-purchase online here
• Skip the line: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour (from $40)
• Best Istanbul food tour: Taste of 2 Continents (from $100)
• Top-rated Istanbul city tour: Best of Istanbul in 1 Day (from $60)
• Turkey car hire: Find a low-cost rental on Local Rent (from 28€/day)

Essential Istanbul travel tips

Starting with the basics, here are answers to some of the burning questions I had before my first visit to Turkey (Türkiye) and Istanbul.

1. Avoid visiting in summer

Never underestimate Istanbul’s magnetism. The city pulled in more than 14 million tourists in 2019 (including me), and on my most recent trip in 2022, it felt just as crowded as it had been three years earlier.

I’m willing to bet that most people visit Istanbul during the summer months – June, July and August. This feels a bit hypocritical because I myself have visited Istanbul twice during summer – but because I did, I know what peak season is like.

Istanbul’s climate is quite mild relative to other cities in the region. Temperatures might not go too far beyond 30 degrees Celsius in the shade, but the sun is scorching hot, and it’s very dry.

Aside from the oppressive heat, there are the summer swarms to contend with. (You haven’t really experienced a queue until you’ve stood in line for the Hagia Sophia on an August afternoon.) There are crushing crowds at every landmark during summer, and that gets old pretty quickly. On top of that, accommodation prices are noticeably higher and it can be challenging to get a reservation.

The best time to visit Istanbul is during shoulder season, spring (April to early June) or autumn (mid-September to the start of November). For something different, consider visiting Turkey in winter , when snow covers Istanbul and the city’s charm-o-metre is off the charts.

Take note of the dates for the Holy Month of Ramadan (usually around March-April-May, but it changes every year), which influences the way the city operates.

2. You need at least three days to do Istanbul justice

However many days you give yourself in Istanbul, it will never be enough. You will always feel like you short-changed yourself – there’s always one more neighbourhood to explore, one more ferry trip to take, one more museum to visit, one more restaurant to try…

Three days is the bare minimum for a first-time visitor, but you could easily stay for a week or more.

I recently spent 10 days in Istanbul and found it was a good amount of time to see the city at a relaxed pace. I stayed in the centre for that entire time, though I did have a few ‘down’ days to work. There are dozens of day trip opportunities to break things up if the city gets to be too much.

One of the highlights of Istanbul is the food, so you’d do well to measure the duration of your stay in meals eaten rather than nights slept! Six square meals (and a couple of ‘spread breakfasts’) is ideal for indulging in the best of Istanbul’s food scene .

Plan your time with my 4-day Istanbul itinerary , which covers the must-sees and a few local gems.

3. Save time (and maybe money) by applying for an e-visa

Most nationalities require a tourist visa to enter Türkiye. The country’s e-visa scheme, which launched in 2013, is available to citizens of 40+ countries, including the States, Australia and Canada. (EU citizens do not need a visa.) A standard multiple-entry visa is valid for a stay of up to 90 days with 180 days validity from the date of issue.

Visa on arrival (VOA) is also available, but if you’re flying in, it requires queueing at the airport – and because of the high volume of flights arriving at IST particularly, it can be a long wait. For some nationalities, it’s also more expensive – 10 USD dearer on average compared to the e-visa according to the official fees (though for US passport holders, VOA is cheaper).

Applying for a Turkish e-visa requires completing a simple online form. The website has English-language support and international card payment, but be warned that sometimes it’s a bit glitchy. Both times I’ve applied, my visa has landed in my inbox almost instantly (within the hour). Be sure to print off the A4 piece of paper to show at immigration.

There are copycat sites out there – the official e-visa portal is located here .

I have never been asked for proof of onward travel or a hotel reservation when entering Turkey. If you want one or both for peace of mind without making an actual booking, then I suggest using OneWayFly .

4. Travel insurance is a must

Travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Turkey. Again, you might not be asked to show proof of insurance if you’re travelling on an e-visa (I haven’t), but rules are rules nonetheless.

Istanbul is generally regarded as a safe city, but pickpocketing and crime do occur. More importantly, local health care can be expensive, so it pays to be covered in case of accident or unexpected illness.

For single-policy or annual trip insurance, I recommend HeyMondo. Get 5% off your policy when you sign up using this link .

Read up on these Istanbul safety tips before you go.

5. Use the Havabus (Havaist) shuttle to travel to/from the airport

Update: Since publishing this guide, both Istanbul airports now have an underground metro service. I would definitely look into this option – avoiding traffic could be a real time-saver. Here are more details .

Havabus is a terrific service for travelling between Istanbul’s airports (yes, there is more than one – see the next point) and the downtown area. Shuttles operate 24/7, with departures in both directions every 30-60 minutes.

Tip: At Sabiha Gokcen airport, the shuttle is called Havabus and at Istanbul Airport, it’s called Havaist. I have used both – they operate in much the same way, but they have separate websites for checking the schedule ( here for Havabus and here for Havaist).

When you land in Istanbul, look for the airport bus signage. At Sabiha Gokcen, the bus stand is located on the other side of the car park directly in front of the arrivals terminal. Tickets are purchased using cash on the bus and cost 37.50 TRY (around 2 USD) per person to go to Taksim.

If you prefer a private transfer, airport cars are very well priced (from $27 to/from either airport). Pre-book a door-to-door airport transfer online here .

Eventually the Istanbul metro will extend to IST Airport, but the line has not been completed yet.

6. There are multiple airports in Istanbul – don’t front up at the wrong one!

Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s largest and busiest international airport. Located on the European side in Arnavutkoy, 40km / 45 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square, it is sometimes referred to as ‘Istanbul Grand Airport’ or IGA. If you’re flying with Turkish Airlines or from Europe, there’s a high chance you will be landing at IST.

A second airport, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), receives flights from the Middle East (Emirates, Qatar ) as well as Turkey’s own Pegasus Airlines. It is located on the Asian side, 40km / 60 minutes’ drive from Taksim Square.

A third airport, Ataturk Airport, closed in 2019.

The two airports are 80km apart and it takes at least 75-90 minutes to travel between them. There are shuttle buses, but if you show up at the wrong one for your flight, there’s a good chance you’ll be left high and dry. Triple-check your reservation and make sure you show up at the correct airport.

We got caught out with this on our first trip and rolled up at the wrong airport for our flight back to Australia. Luckily we had come a day early with the intention of staying the night at the airport hotel, so we still made our flight.

You can use Havabus/Havaist to get back to the airport from the city, too. Buses depart from Taksim Square. Take the metro to Taksim and follow the exit towards Taksim Gezi Park. From there, the station is a short walk (you will see the coaches waiting and two ticket booths on the footpath).

Buses to both airports depart from the same area, so again, triple-check you’re hopping on the right one!

7. Pre-book your accommodation

Hotel platform Booking.com doesn’t work in Turkey, so if this is your preferred way to find accommodation, you’ll need to do your browsing and booking before you arrive. (This can be overcome by using a VPN of course.)

Pre-booking is essential for peak-period travel as properties do fill up and prices can skyrocket for last-minute reservations.

I normally use Airbnb in Istanbul for the simple reason that I prefer to stay in local neighbourhoods. Sisli is my district of choice: It has great access to public transport, fantastic local restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe.

8. Card is widely accepted, but it helps to carry cash

Ninety-nine percent of venues and shops in Istanbul accept credit/debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, as well as contactless pay. For small markets and convenience stores, local restaurants, bars and taxis – and when dipping into the wonderful world of Istanbul street food – you’ll need cash.

Many smaller shops in Turkey have a primary limit set on card purchases, meaning you need to meet a certain threshold if you want to pay with a card. In these instances, cash is necessary. Small bills also come in handy for tipping (more on that later).

I suggest withdrawing cash when you first arrive and reserving it for smaller purchases and tips. Check out my Istanbul Travel Budget to learn more about budgeting for your trip and the cost of common items and services.

9. Most ATMs in Turkey charge a fee

ATMs are ubiquitous in Istanbul and most of the time, you’ll see half a dozen different cash machines clustered together. Majority charge a withdrawal fee – up to 5% for some banks – and have a transaction limit of between 3000-5000 TRY.

The only no-fee ATM we could find was Ziraat Bank. It’s red with a distinctive wheatear logo. We also used HalkBank, which did not charge us a withdrawal fee, but did hit us with a 13 TRY fee on Wise.

Banks change their fee structure regularly, so you might need to experiment with a few different machines. If the bank does charge a fee – either a flat fee or a percentage – this should always be displayed on the screen before you finalise the transaction.

On our first trip to Turkey, we had issues with our Australian bank cards not being accepted. This time around, I used my Wise card without any issues. I found the best method for withdrawing cash was to exchange stored currency to Turkish lira within the Wise app, then withdraw lira from the ATM.

Wise is great for international travel and offers very competitive exchange rates – if you don’t yet have an account, you can sign up here .

10. Buying a SIM card in Istanbul is easy, but your options are limited

Open WIFI is not readily accessible in Istanbul, which makes buying a local SIM card more or less a necessity.

If you’re not a Turkish citizen and you don’t hold a residency permit, you’ll find you have limited options when it comes to buying a SIM. Low-cost packages are not available to foreigners and most telcos only offer one standard tourist package.

After doing a bit of research, we settled on a Vodafone SIM. Vodafone only has one option for tourists, which includes 20GB of data, calls and texts, and unlimited access to Whatsapp. We paid 350 TRY (around 19 USD).

The process of buying a SIM is very straightforward and only took us about 15 minutes. You need a hard copy of your passport for registration, so make sure you’re carrying it with you. The tourist SIM automatically expires after 60 days.

11. The public transport system is phenomenal

If you’re considering hiring a car in Turkey to continue your travels beyond the city, make sure you pick it up on the outskirts of the city (possible when using a company such as Local Rent ). The traffic is maniacal and I would not recommend driving in the city centre.

There’s no reason to drive a car in Istanbul, anyway: The public transport system is affordable, easy to use and reliable. Between the metro, trams, buses, ferries, and my personal favourite, dolmus vans, you can get anywhere you need to go with ease. Google Maps works well for planning your route.

Dolmus minivans – Turkey’s answer to a marshrutka – are a fun experience. The name literally means ‘stuffed’ because passengers are squeezed in like sardines. Keep in mind that the entire transport network is very busy and squishy during peak hour, especially in the morning between about 8-9.30am.

When boarding a bus in Istanbul, enter through the front door and tap your IstanbulKart on the electronic reader. If the bus is very full, you can board through the back doors and pass your card down the line for someone at the front to swipe.

12. You need an IstanbulKart transport pass

On our first trip to Istanbul, we walked a lot and relied on buying single-journey metro tickets for longer trips. This time around, we re-learned that only certain ticket machines inside the metro dispense single tickets – and usually they are the ones with an obnoxiously long line of people.

An IstanbulKart is an essential purchase if you plan to use public transport. There are several different cards available – all are valid for the metro, buses, trams and ferries. The so-called Anonymous IstanbulKart is recommended for tourists and is sold at kiosks and newsstands and inside metro stations for 50 TRY (non-refundable). You can use one card for multiple people (up to five people).

A single IstanbulKart fare costs 7.67 TRY. Compared to the 15 TRY for a single-journey ticket, you’ll end up saving almost 50% on every trip.

Note that metrobus fares vary according to the number of stops travelled, but metro fares are flat. Transfers are charged at 5.49 TRY for the first transfer and 4.17 TRY for the second leg.

Find more information about the public transport system here .

13. Use an app for taxis in Istanbul

Istanbul’s cab system is similarly well organised, with three types of taxis at different price points. Yellow taxis are standard and have the lowest fares (6.3 TL/km plus a switch-on fee of 9.8 TL). Turquoise taxis are a premium service and cost 20% more, while black taxis (always luxury vehicles) are twice as expensive as yellow taxis.

Taxis are metered, so it’s generally considered safe for a tourist to hail a cab on the street. However, scams do happen , which is one of the reasons most people (including many locals) prefer to use an app.

After numerous legal battles, Uber re-launched in Turkey in 2021. We used it on several occasions and found the service to be good – short wait times, friendly drivers, and competitive fares (we always paid in cash rather than hooking up our credit card – make sure you are carrying small bills).

Uber alternatives include BiTaksi and Itaksi. The former has POS contactless payment, which is great for paying by card.

14. Tipping is standard

Tipping is customary in Turkey, with 10% being the standard mark for restaurants and bars. For taxi drivers, it’s normal to round up to the nearest lira when paying in cash.

Of course you should only tip if you’re satisfied with the service. We found the quality of customer service in Istanbul to be pretty good across the board, with the exception of one chain cafe where we had a terrible experience.

Tipping is slightly higher for other service providers: 10-20% goes to your tellak or natir at the Turkish baths, and to your hairdresser or barber.

15. Can you drink the tap water in Istanbul?

This is a rhetorical question, because I’m still not sure what the correct answer is! Locals will warn you off tap water while at the same time, the government is running campaigns to encourage more people to drink from the faucet.

From what I understand, Istanbul tap water was undrinkable a decade ago. Infrastructure improvements (and the addition of chlorine to the water stream) have made tap water safe to drink, but many people still prefer to drink bottled water.

If the building you’re staying in has old, rusty pipes, it might be best to give tap water a wide berth. Try a small quantity and see how it sits with you.

16. Don’t flush your loo paper

Istanbul’s pipes are a bit sensitive, thus most restaurants, cafes and hotels request you place toilet tissue in a bin rather than flushing it down the loo. If this is the case, you’ll likely see a sign and a strategically placed wastepaper bin. If in doubt, don’t flush it.

17. If you need a bathroom, head to the nearest mosque

After chasing after non-existent bathrooms in malls and metro stations, I finally cottoned onto this little Istanbul tip: There are public toilets attached to most mosques and in my experience, they are almost always cleaner than public bathrooms elsewhere. Pan toilets are common. Men’s rooms are marked with bay , and women’s with bayan .

Some bathrooms are free to use, while others charge a small (1-2 TRY) fee. Another good reason to carry some small bills or coins with you.

18. Sip ayran to keep your tummy happy

Ayran is a savoury yogurt drink that has its roots in Turkey, but is popular around the region (I developed my ayran addiction several years ago in Bosnia and Herzegovina and have been sipping it ever since). It’s not too creamy, not too watery, and has just a hint of salty effervescence.

Because it’s yogurt, it’s full of good bacteria that do wonders to keep your gut in balance. Just as you might drink lassis in India, you can drink ayran in Istanbul to help ward off any potential food or water-related bugs.

Food poisoning definitely does occur in Istanbul, so watch what you eat and try to consume street food earlier in the day when it’s fresher (especially fish wraps and seafood).

People drink ayran with breakfast, lunch or dinner, and it is served at virtually every restaurant in Istanbul – either in little plastic tubs or from a fountain. Always go for the fresh option when it’s available: It’s light and aerated and extra delicious, presented with a big scoop of yogurty foam on top.

19. Drinking is common, but alcohol is not ubiquitous

The most popular alcoholic drinks in Istanbul are beer, wine and raki , a powerful spirit distilled from grapes or other fruits. Not all restaurants serve alcohol, however, and when you make your way over to the Asian side of Istanbul (which is noticeably more conservative), you’ll find that only a handful of establishments are licensed.

If you prefer to BYO, tekels are Istanbul’s answer to bottle shops. They normally sell a selection of local bottled beers and Turkish wines along with soft drinks, snack foods and cigarettes. It’s illegal to sell alcohol within 100 metres of a mosque or a school, so you won’t find any tekels in some neighbourhoods.

Sales are restricted to certain times of day – you cannot purchase drinks from a bottle shop between 10am and 6am (there are no restrictions on restaurants and bars, though). Alcohol is served as normal during Ramadan.

Excessive drinking is taboo in Turkish culture. Raki, the national drink, is a social beverage consumed slowly with food. It has aniseed notes and is sometimes served over water and ice, which gives it a milky colour.

If you want to try raki, head to a meyhane (meze bar), where alcohol is served with small places of food (also see point #26 on this list). You can order a small 350 mL bottle or a shot (~40 mL). Start slow – some rakis are 80-90 proof.

20. English is widely spoken (sort of)

The number of Turkish people who speak English is somewhere between 15-20% . Of course the rate is much higher in Istanbul, but still, English is not as widespread as you might imagine.

We found a bit of a paradox here: In big shops and phone stores, very little English was spoken, while we encountered staff who spoke perfect English in small restaurants and humble bakeries.

The bottom line is that it’s a bit of a mixed bag, so be prepared to sign and mime your way through some situations. Of course it helps to have some simple Turkish under your belt – knowing a few basic phrases can help to smooth things over.

Istanbul quirks to know before you go

Here are a few unusual quirks that tripped us up in Istanbul.

21. Pharmacies are hard to find

Turkey differentiates between ‘pharmacies’ and ‘cosmetic stores’ in a way that I’ve not noticed in any other country. The latter sells beauty and health products, but there is no pharmacist on staff and nowhere to buy over-the-counter medications or prescription meds.

Chains such as Watsons, Rossmann and Gratis are classified as ‘cosmetics stores’. If you need anything more serious than paracetamol or a revitalising face mask, you need a pharmacy or eczane .

Eczanesi are more difficult to come by. That’s because there are no chain pharmacies in Turkey. All pharmacies are small and owner-operated by a pharmacist – essentially mom-and-pop shops. You won’t find them in malls, only on the streets. Look for the ‘eczanesi’ sign in the window, and when using Google Maps, search for ‘eczane’ rather than ‘pharmacy’.

Pharmacies are worth hunting down if you need them: Many medicines are freely available in Turkey without a prescription, and prices are almost always cheaper than elsewhere in Europe. You do have to ask around, though, as every pharmacy has different stock and different generic brands. My partner spent several days searching for his medication and after asking at a dozen eczanesi, he finally found what he was looking for at a quarter of the price it is in Georgia.

22. Hand cologne is a thing

Istanbulites were sanitising their hands long before it was cool. The first time we had our hands doused in hand cologne by a friendly waiter, we assumed it was hand sanitiser – but no, this tradition far predates the pandemic.

Kolonya harks back to the days of the Ottoman Empire when a pleasant smelling liquid was sprinkled on guests’ hands as they would enter or exit private homes, hotels or hospitals. Today it’s widely used in restaurants after you pay the check. Some places have a little bottle on the table next to the salt and pepper shakers.

Scented with jasmine, lemon, rosewater or dark spice, a dash of hand cologne leaves your paws smelling fragrant fresh. Unlike hand gel, kolonya is very thin and watery – a little bit goes a long way. And because it’s ethanol-based, it does act as a disinfectant as well.

23. Don’t be surprised if you get asked for your phone number

Grocery stores, cosmetic stores, clothing shops and pharmacies alike seem to ask customers for a local phone number – I assume for marketing purposes rather than to track or register anything. This happened to us on a daily basis, and the first few times, the language barrier made it very confusing.

If you don’t have a local SIM (and even if you do), you can always say no and the cashier will copy a random number off the back of an old receipt.

24. Don’t stay too close to a mosque if you like to sleep in

Istanbul has its own backing track, and that is the sound of the call to prayer ( ezan ). The rumble of minarets whispering to each other is incredibly stirring – but your opinion might be slightly different if you happen to be laying your head near a mosque’s speakerbox every night.

The call to prayer happens five times a day, starting with the pre-dawn İmsak ( Fajr ), which reverberates around the city some time between 4-6am depending on the time of year. In July, it can be as early as 3.30am, with a second Sunrise ( Güneş ) call around 2 hours later.

With well over 3,000 mosques, you’ll more than likely have at least one or two nearby. If you’re a light sleeper, it’s worth scoping out the local mosques and choosing accommodation that’s further than earshot from the nearest minaret.

25. Don’t linger too long at a lokanta

Lokanta are a specific type of Turkish restaurant that serve casual, home-style meals to workers and tradesmen. Every neighbourhood has them, and they are a terrific place to sample salt-of-the-earth Turkish cuisine and soak up a bit of local culture at the same time.

When you sit down at a lokanta, a waiter will come to take your order within seconds. Some are cafeteria style, others are a-la-carte. At the end of the meal, empty plates are spirited away and the table sprayed and wiped just as fast as the food came out. Usually you settle the bill at a cash desk rather than requesting a written check.

It’s easy to overstay your welcome at this type of establishment, where the imperative is to turn tables as quickly as possible. They are perfect when you need a quick bite, but if you want a leisurely meal, choose a different sort of restaurant. Sidewalk meyhanes , for example, are the complete opposite. Serving meze and raki, they are designed for long, lingering lunches.

26. Don’t assume those meze plates are free

It’s normal for wait staff at a meyhane to present you with an attractive tray of small plates before they take your order. Turkish meze includes grilled eggplant with yogurt, fava beans, artichoke, and many, many more delicious bites designed for sharing over a bottle of raki.

Don’t make the mistake of assuming these small side salads are free – they are not. (Sides of chopped onion, herbs and chilli served in smaller silver dishes with kebab, on the other hand, are usually included in the price.)

27. Brace yourself for lots of uphill walking

They don’t call Istanbul the ‘City on Seven Hills’ for nothing. After a few days walking the streets, you might think the ‘city of seven million hills’ is a more apt nickname.

Constantinople was laid out in the image of Rome, which was of course built over a septet of hills. On the ground, it feels like all of Istanbul is rippled, with steep streets and vertiginous staircases at almost every turn. There are many advantages to this city plan, the delightfully sloped houses in Balat for one, and the spectacular city views you get from the higher elevations for another.

Comfy shoes and a whole lot of patience are absolutely essential when exploring Istanbul on foot, where it can literally feel like an uphill battle to get from one place to the next.

There are ways to avoid the slog, including using the funicular railways: Taksim-Kabatas and the historic Tunel that links Karakoy and Beyoglu. The latter is the world’s second-oldest subterranean rail line (after the London Underground) and the oldest still-operating underground funicular in Europe.

Istanbul travel tips to feel like a local

While it takes more than a three or four-day stay to feel like a fully fledged Istanbulite, here are a few little tricks to help you fit in.

28. Dress modestly to blend in

Istanbul is a metropolis through and through, with a liberal dress code to match. Almost anything goes, but I still recommend you cover up for comfort and to fit in with the crowd. Women should try to avoid plunging necklines, revealing fabrics, and very short hemlines.

There are noticeable differences between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, with more modest dress and more hijabs worn in Uskudar compared to Eminonu, for example. Generally speaking, Turkey gets more conservative the further east you go, and this holds true even in the city centre. Keep it in mind if you’re travelling around the country.

One place you definitely must observe the dress code is mosques, where covered arms (to the elbow for men or the wrist for women) and legs (down to the ankles) is required. Women must also cover their hair. Majority of mosques have pull-over muumuus that you can borrow (for free) at the door to fully cover up. Note that there are no dress requirements for young kids.

It’s obligatory to remove your shoes when entering a mosque, so on days when you’re sightseeing, wear kicks that you can easily slip off and on. And if you prefer not to go barefoot, carry a pair of ankle socks in the bottom of your bag. Some mosques provide plastic bags, otherwise you can just leave your shoes outside.

29. Never skip breakfast…

Breakfast is certainly the most important meal of the day in Turkey. Sunday breakfast is the queen of the morning meals, when the famous kahvalti tabagi ‘spread breakfast’ comes into its own.

On a Sunday, some Istanbulites spend the better part of the day between mid-morning and late afternoon gathered around the breakfast table with friends or family, noshing on an extravagant spread of cheeses, olives, cut vegetables and eggs served with supple somun bread. Kahvalti is a daily occurrence in places like Besiktast ‘Breakfast Street’ and in gourmet cafes such as Van Kahvalti.

If you’re on a tight timeline or a budget, breakfast doesn’t have to be drawn-out or expensive: There are faster and more affordable options, such as a pick-and-choose breakfast at Cakmak Kahvalti Salonu, where small plates range from 2-8 TRY each. 

Borekcisi (borek bakeries) serve portions of steaming hot filled pastry and chai, or for a simple breakfast snack on the go, grab a simit bagel from a street vendor.

30. …But don’t order coffee first thing

Kahvalti means ‘before coffee’. Breakfast is traditionally accompanied by cay , strong black tea, rather than Turkish coffee. It’s normal to down half a dozen glasses of tea in a single sitting (though two or three is usually enough). Most sit-down kahvalti breakfasts come with two pots of tea.

If you want to do things like a local, save your Türk kahvesi for after lunch and start your morning with cay sade – strong and bitter tea with no sugar – instead.

31. Don’t be afraid to haggle at the bazaar

Haggling is customary and expected at markets in Istanbul and in other commercial settings. You’ll find that most items at the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar have a price tag, but for those that don’t (and even for those that do), it’s quite normal to bargain for a better price. This is especially true if you’re buying more than one of something or multiple items from the same vendor. Rule of thumb is to aim for a 35-50% discount on the sticker price.

There are huge mark-ups at the Grand Bazaar, which seems to be almost exclusively the domain of tourists these days. There are local markets and street markets all over Istanbul where you’ll have a better chance of striking gold for a fair figure. Markets are held on different days of the week and following a rotating schedule, so you can always find something on. Popular food and flea markets take place in Karakoy (Tuesdays), Ortakoy (Thursdays), Uskudar (Fridays), and Besiktas (Saturdays).

If you do decide to brave the Grand Bazaar or another historic market in Istanbul, the best advice I’ve heard is to do your shopping in the mid-morning. It’s more likely that vendors have already made a few sales and met their daily commission targets, so there will be less pressure on you.

32. Don’t fall for the ‘shoe cleaner trick’

This one got us good.

One early morning we were walking down an alleyway in Besiktas when we heard a clack on the cobbles and noticed that someone had dropped a wooden shoe brush. Being the saint he is, my partner rushed to pick it up without a second thought and handed it back to the shoe cleaner whose caddy it had tumbled from.

Expressing his profound thanks, the guy promptly took a seat on the curb at our feet and insisted on shaking my husband’s hand in gratitude. That’s when he grabbed him by the wrist in a monkey grip and tried to pull him down for a coerced shoe cleaning. I should mention that he was wearing joggers, not leather shoes!

Neither of us were aware of this common scam at the time, so we thought the whole situation was quite hilarious. The man had a gorgeous smile and was very friendly – we actually gave him credit for this ingenious trick.

Only later when we heard about the scam did we realise what had (almost) happened to us. Ross managed to talk his way out of it, dirty shoes still intact.

We were not mad in the slightest, but it could have been a different story had we actually been talked into handing over cash. Keep an eye out for this trick, especially in touristy areas.

33. Embrace cat culture

There are up to a million cats and kittens living on the streets of Istanbul. Every cafe is a cat cafe, and every corner has its own posse of cute pusses. A picture-perfect clowder of cats lounging on fence posts and chairs like the princes and princesses they are awaits you at every turn.

Similar to street dogs in Georgia , the cats of Istanbul are regarded as community pets rather than strays and are fed and cared for by the locals. For the most part, they don’t bother people and keep to themselves. We definitely encountered a few fiercer felines on our travels – it’s pretty obvious which cats want pats and which ones need their personal space. They will let you know with a dagger stare or a hiss.

Cat culture can be traced back to Ottoman times, when tabbys helped to quash the city’s mice population. In this respect, cats are an inseparable part of the city’s social fabric.

If you’re an animal lover, it can be distressing to see so many cats living rough, especially when they’re not in the best shape. (Though I must say that every cat I met in Istanbul was plump and rosy.) It helps to know that Istanbul (and all of Turkey) has a no-kill, no capture policy.

34. Brush up on your basic hammam etiquette

Partaking in a traditional Turkish bath is a must-do in Istanbul. The hammams have aeons of history and custom attached to them – there are definite dos and don’ts, just as there are with the sulfur baths in Tbilisi . It helps to know how to handle things once the towels come out, lest you embarrass yourself.

Regarding nakedness, men normally strip down to nothing while women wear undies (single-use pairs are supplied by most bathhouses) then don a pestemal towel, which stays wrapped around you for the duration of your stay.

The Turkish-style skin peel/massage ( kese ) can be quite rough on the skin and muscles. The therapist, known as a natir or tellak , will always be of the same gender. It’s customary to tip them 10-20% after your treatment.

For more Turkish hammam hints, see this guide .

More helpful Istanbul tips to make the most of your visit

Finally, here are a handful of practical tips for planning your itinerary and getting the most out of your time in Istanbul.

35. Organise your Istanbul itinerary by neighbourhood/district

Istanbul has 39 districts, each with its own character and appeal. From the Instagrammable houses and antique shops in Balat, to the trendy cafes in Cihangir, the rambunctious fish market in Uskudar to the Ottoman-era mansions in Arnavutkoy , every corner of the city has something incredible up its sleeve.

A great way to organise your time in Istanbul is by planning your movements around the different neighbourhoods. Each one is quite discreet, so you can knock out a to-do list before moving onto the next.

Some neighbourhoods naturally pair together thanks to geography and transport logistics: Galata and Karakoy, Fener and Balat, Uskudar and Kadikoy, Cihangir and Cukurcuma. See my Istanbul 4-day itinerary for more ideas on how to plan your visit by district.

38. Consider signing up for a food tour

One thing every Istanbul neighbourhood has in common is its never-ending supply of cafes, restaurants and street food vendors. One of the best ways to discover the city – especially if you’re on a tight timeline – is by signing up for a food tour.

I was lucky enough to join Culinary Backstreets’ Born on the Bosphorus tour during my most recent visit to Istanbul. It was one of the highlights of my trip – not only because of the delicious food, but mainly thanks to our incredible guide, Benoit, who over the course of a full day taught me so much about Istanbul’s food and beyond.

The popular Taste of Two Continents tour, with 11 food stops and a Bosphorus ferry crossing, is a good alternative if you’re looking for a half-day experience.

37. Get an early start to beat the crowds

This is particularly important in summer, when the touristy parts of the city get extremely crowded. One of the best ways to avoid long waits at landmarks such as Galata Tower is by waking up early and arriving as doors open.

The metro starts running at 6am – and from Friday evening to Sunday morning public transport operates 24/7 – so there’s no excuse not to get out in the early AM.

38. Invest in a Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass

There is a gamut of different tourist cards and passes available for Istanbul. The 5-day Istanbul Museum Pass or the 2-7 day E-Pass is one of the best investments you can make if you plan on doing the rounds through the city’s best museums and big attractions.

The digital pass gives you skip-the-queue access to 10 of the city’s finest cultural institutions, including Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace and the Harem, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and the Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum.

Available to purchase online before you arrive, it uses a simple QR code system. Just show your pass on your mobile – no need to print anything.

Only buy the pass if it makes sense for you, though: You have to visit multiple attractions for it to pay off, though the other perks – particularly the ability to skip the ticket line – are invaluable in a sense.

Purchase the official Istanbul E-Pass here via Viator .

39. Check prayer times in advance

The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are both active mosques, open to visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Except during prayer times, that is.

All of Istanbul’s mosques temporarily close to non-Muslim visitors five times a day for a period of about 90 minutes. For the duration of the Congregational Prayers, no tourists are permitted to enter.

It’s imperative to check prayer times in advance. If you show up while prayers are on, you will be met with a long wait outside. Times are signposted at the bigger mosques or you can check online .

The queue to enter the Hagia Sophia gets very long towards the end of the prayer session. The best time to visit is 30-40 minutes before the mosque is scheduled to close. Don’t try to visit on Fridays when the Jumu’ah prayer takes place – this is one of the busiest times, and it’s always crowded and chaotic.

If your Istanbul visit coincides with Ramadan or another Islamic holiday, prayer times might be different and mosques might be closed for longer periods during the day.

40. Skip the Bosphorus cruise – take advantage of local ferries instead

Some people opt to experience the Bosphorus on board a yacht at sunset with champagne and nibbles. If your budget won’t stretch that far, or you just prefer a local experience, then a ride on the public ferry offers the same ambiance and water views for a fraction of the price.

Hundreds of ferries criss-cross the strait, linking Istanbul’s Asian and European sides. The most scenic ferry routes include Besiktas to Kadikoy, Karakoy to Uskudar, and Karakoy to Kadikoy. Some boats go up the Bosphorus towards the Black Sea, and others head in the opposite direction towards the Princes’ Islands.

Bring a simit bagel to snack on (and to lure seagulls in for photos), or order a tulip-shaped glass of tea from one of the roving vendors on board.

41. Don’t miss the sunset from Galata Bridge

There is only one way to end a day in Istanbul in my opinion, and that’s by watching the sun go down from Galata Bridge. It might be touristy as heck, but there’s a good reason why this is such a popular spot. Views of the glittering water and intertwining boats, mosque minarets silhouetted against a dusky blue sky framed by fishermen casting their lines off the edge of the bridge, are absolute gold.

I recommend finding a spot to stand on the western side of the bridge, above the area where the Karakoy ferry docks. Aim to arrive about an hour before sunset for the best light.

For the perfect Istanbul photo, wait patiently for the garbage truck to come down the street and dump its load in the bins near the ferry terminal – this sends the seagulls into a frenzy, and they fill the skies with their spinning and diving for a good 15 minutes.

42. ‘Authentic’ Whirling Dervish ceremonies still exist – here’s how to find one

Speaking of Istanbul must-dos: A Whirling Dervish show is a bucket-list item for many. I was warned that all Mevlevi Sema ceremonies had become commercialised and ‘spoiled’ by tourists to the point where they just weren’t worth pursuing any more. So I made it my mission to find a real, ‘authentic’ Sema ritual in Istanbul, and I’m happy to say that I eventually did.

Get all the details about the best Whirling Dervish ceremony in Istanbul in this guide .

Where to stay in Istanbul

Budget: Hostel Le Banc (⭐ 9.5) – This popular hostel in Beyoglu is footsteps from the Galata Tower and Sishane metro station. It features air-conditioned rooms (private doubles and mixed/all-female 4 and 10-bed dorms), a shared lounge and a terrace.

Mid-range: 38 Hotel (⭐ 8.6) – Located in Sisli, close to Osmanbey metro station, this hotel has compact, tidy double rooms and suites.

Boutique: Hotel Empress Zoe (⭐ 9.2) – This gorgeous boutique hotel is decorated with heritage flourishes and boasts hammam-like ensuites and private internal terraces. The location in Fatih, minutes from Sultan Ahmet Mosque and the Blue Mosque, is very central yet the hotel still feels secluded.

Luxury: Ecole St. Pierre Hotel (⭐ 9.5) – Located in Beyoglu close to Galata Tower, this boutique-luxury hotel offers high-end suites with private courtyards and terraces. The building, an old Italian Dominican school with remnants of the 13th-century Galata walls inside its courtyard, is dripping with history.

Turkey essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Turkey. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Turkey using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Turkey and apply for an expedited visa online.

DOCUMENTATION: Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Turkey with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use the Local Rent platform to hire a car from a local agent. Prices start from as little as 18€ per day.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Turkey hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best itineraries and prices for Istanbul food tours, Cappadocia balloon rides and more!

More Istanbul travel resources

• 1-4 day Istanbul itinerary
• Istanbul travel budget
• The ultimate guide to eating out in Istanbul
• Tips for visiting Galata Tower for Istanbul city views
• The best Whirling Dervishes ceremony in Istanbul
• Guide to Arnavutkoy, Istanbul’s most beautiful district
• The best places to visit in Turkey
• Turkey in winter: Where to go plus travel tips

12 Comments

Detailed tips are super helpful, especially about the best time to visit and the ins and outs of public transport.

Thank you. Right now in Turkey with wife and kids. Following your steps and recommendations. Just one thing: booking asked for a price but the hotel converted the price to Liras and charged me much more for exactly the same booking and service! Thank you again,

I love your travel blog! Your vivid descriptions and stunning photographs make me feel like I’m right there with you. It’s inspiring to see someone embracing adventure and exploring new cultures. Keep the travel stories coming!

Excellent article and links for further information. I am planning a trip to Turkey in September with my wife and your articles a great start and support. Great job! Alejandro

This is very, very helpful. Thank you so much.

Early in your article you indicated that Booking.com does not work in Turkey, yet in the section, entitled “Turkey Essentials”, you direct us to that site for Hotels. Maybe I am missing something, but that appears to be contradictory. I found the article very helpful…..Thanks for the information.

Hi JB – I still recommend using Booking, only you have to reserve from outside of Turkey ie. before you arrive.

Thanks so much, this was really helpful. Lots of good to know stuff that I didn’t find mentioned elsewhere

it was very helpful thank you

Ha, I made the same mistake again and didn’t read through your info thoroughly. In Georgia, I paid more than I needed to for a SIM at the airport and this time, I could have saved a few lira on a bank withdrawal in Istanbul.

Already appreciating the smiles and kindness in Istanbul very much.

Love your work Emily.

Perhaps it’s different for Australian passport holders, but I found the VOA to be a better deal than the eVisa for Americans. Our eVisas were fast and easy to get, but cost $50 plus a 2 dollar service fee. We got them before traveling to Turkey last year, but went twice to make them a better value. This past month we got VOA (no lines) and paid 25 euros each. Both are valid for 6 months. Plus you get a little visa stamp in your passport!

Thanks Owen for the info – you’re right, VOA is more affordable for US passport holders, but not for us Aussies unfortunately! I would have loved a visa stamp. I’ll update that now. Cheers!

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Bring earplugs so the dawn call to prayer, broadcast over speakers from the mosques, doesn't wake you.

isailthe7seas

Allow the call to prayer you hear throughout your day, be a reminder to stop and just take in the fact that you are in Istanbul. As a woman, know when you might be interacting with a more old fashion Islamic gentleman. If need be let the man traveling with you take the lead. Have toilet paper in your daypack. Practice the position of the Turkish toilet at home. you will probably need to use one at least once. ** just because the toilet stall that is available is Turkish toilet, doesn't mean that ALL are. the one that is occupied could be worth the wait.

sarikanarya

There are so many cliched phrases used to describe İstanbul - ancient and modern, where east meets west, old world blended with new world etc etc and they are all true. There is history, culture, shopping, sightseeing, museums, galleries, boat trips.There is SO much!

Istanbul is a magnificent city...one full of beauty, history, spectacular architecture, amazing restaurants, views to die for, wonderful little family-owned hotels, exceptionally kind and honest people, fun filled nightclubs, exotic sounds, exotic smells, and many other fabulous things too numerous to mention.

... too often we try to paint those places we love as bastions of perfection. I've been guilty of it, and so have others. No place, however, is perfect. And anyway, perfection is boring. Istanbul can stand proud and tall...even with her imperfections...and I hope we can all take a step back and realize that.

What is the best way to get there?

The city of Istanbul is served by Istanbul International Airport.

Istanbul is home to two trains stations, Haydarpasa station on the Asian side and Sirkeci station on the European side. Trains from Haydarpasa are destined for cities and towns in Anatolia, while Haydarpasa serves as the gateway to major European destinations.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Istanbul from overseas, check if you need a visa using the following  website .

When is the best time to visit?

The best times to visit Istanbul are between March and May and September and November. April is particularly beautiful because poppies and tulips, which first originated in Turkey, are in full bloom. Average daily temperatures in springtime can be highs of 15 C/59 F and lows of 7 C/45 F and highs around 19 C/66 F and lows around 12 C/55 F in autumn.

The bridge that connects the Asian and European sides of Istanbul is notorious for its traffic jams, making the best way to span the Bosphorus the vapur (ferry). The three main ferry stations on the European side are Besiktas, Kabatas, and Karakoy. Timetables are posted at each terminal.

Istanbul has an underground metro network that spans both sides of the city. It runs from morning until late at night and covers all top attractions. It gets very crowded during the morning and evening rush hours.

For comprehensive train maps, follow this  link .

There’s an abundance of taxi cabs in Istanbul, which makes hailing a ride a breeze. For ease, download the BiTaksi app , which sends the nearest taxi your way.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

The time zone in Turkey is GMT+3

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Istanbul is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. There are two associated plugs types: type C, with two round pins, and plug F, which has two round pins and two earth clips on the side. For plug types, you can reference the international guide: https://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/

What is the currency?

Turkish lira (TRY)

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted.

Yes, in hotels, restaurants, and bars but not smaller businesses.

Is it easy to find a bank?

How much do i tip, hotel staff, turkish bath (hammam) attendants, are there local customs i should know, turkish people are generally very tactile.

and, if you are of the same sex, are likely to touch you during exchanges.

Don’t point at someone

as this is considered rude in Istanbul.

Public displays of affection

such as kissing is considered disrespectful when in public. In public, you will rarely see members of the opposite sex touch one another.

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25 Best Things to Do in Istanbul

From historic squares to the Grand Bazaar, there's much to do in the Turkish metropolis.

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Surely there has never been a dull moment in Istanbul . An imperial capital for 1,700 years, the metropolis has long stood as a gateway between the East and West, and that has made it a hub for crossing cultures, religions, ideologies, and cuisine. And the legacy of the city — formerly Constantinople — has withstood the test of time. "It is a city with an incredible depth of culture, and history like no other," says Liam Dunch, product manager of Abercrombie & Kent, Europe. "Discovery through the stratification and the layers will be constant and unending. Observing the way that people of the city blend together the notions of the East and those of the West is an incredible experience."

Mina Agnos, president of Travelive and a Travel and Leisure A-List Advisor , agrees that the bustling city is a quintessential destination for anyone aiming to understand Turkey. "Every visit to Turkey either starts or ends with Istanbul," she adds. "It is a uniquely diverse city with so many unforgettable sites to discover." Read on to learn what these experts name as the best things to do in Istanbul.

Related : Travel + Leisure Readers' 3 Favorite Hotels in Istanbul of 2023

Experience Taksim Square.

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Taksim Square is in the heart of modern Istanbul, perched at the end of the famous pedestrian street Istiklal Caddesi. Past meets present here; at one end you have the grand Taksim Mosque, and at the other is the modern Ataturk Cultural Center . This is where the hum of Istanbul’s activity vibrates at its highest level.

Stroll down Istiklal Caddesi.

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Speaking of Istiklal Caddesi, this pedestrian-only walking street is the place to soak in the vibe of Istanbul. It is one of the most famous thoroughfares in the country today and is flanked by both Ottoman-era buildings and Art Nouveau and Art Deco structures. The buildings house everything from boutiques and art galleries to cafes, theaters, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Sample Turkish kebab.

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Turkish cuisine includes a dizzying array of grilled meats, seafood, salads, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices, rich desserts, coffee, and tea. When visiting Istanbul, you will want to try as many of the above as possible, but perhaps Turkish kebab especially. Made of marinated lamb or beef, the kebab is cooked on skewers and served alongside vegetables or wrapped up in lavash bread.

Visit the Galata Tower.

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Rising from the historic streets of Istanbul's Beyoglu district, Galata Tower was originally constructed as a watchtower during the Byzantine era. The structure that stands today, however, dates back to the 13th century and serves as a gallery and museum. A primary feature of the tower is a 360-degree observation deck that overlooks Istanbul.

Shop and party in Beyoglu.

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"The European side of Istanbul is home to the main historic district," says Agnos. "This side of the city is considered more 'Western' and it includes nightlife spots and more cosmopolitan districts such as Beyoglu and Karakoy. Beyoglu is famous for its vibrant atmosphere; this area offers wonderful stops for shopping, dining, and nightlife." It's likely you will spend a lot of time in Beyoglu should you travel to Istanbul. Steeped in more than a thousand years of history, the neighborhood is the beating heart of modern Istanbul on the European side of the city.

Grab a drink at Grand Hotel de Londres.

A grande dame of Istanbul, Grand Hotel de Londres is a beautifully preserved building from the 1800s. It's all about opulence here, from the rich color palette and glittering chandeliers to plush wall-to-wall carpeting. The terrace bar is a favorite hangout for tourists and locals; there's often live music here, plus beautiful sunset views over the Golden Horn. "This is a good suggestion for travelers that have been to Istanbul," says Agnos. "It's an off-the-beaten-path suggestion for visitors to really feel the vibe of the city."

Explore Karakoy.

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"Karakoy, the modern name for the old Galata, is part of the Beyoglu district," says Agnos. "It is known as one of the hippest and oldest neighborhoods in Istanbul, home to arty cafes, local boutiques, cocktail bars open late into the night, and art galleries. There is a growing local fashion and art scene in this area."

Marvel at the Blue Mosque.

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One of the most recognizable landmarks in Istanbul, the Blue Mosque (also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is a beacon in the city skyline. It is known for its gorgeous domes and six soaring minaret towers. The mosque dates back to the 17th century and is still a functioning mosque today.

Visit Hagia Sophia.

Not far from the Blue Mosque is the equally impressive Hagia Sophia. Originally built as a church where rulers of the empire were crowned, it was later converted to a mosque. Today it serves as a museum dedicated to Turkey, and it remains one of the most important monuments for both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires.

Roam the Hippodrome.

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Back when Istanbul was the imperial capital of Constantinople, it was known for its horse and chariot racing, and the Hippodrome was where these exciting, adrenaline-pumping races took place. While the original venue is no longer around, what stands in its place is Sultanahmet Square, where several monuments serve as reminders of the area's millennia-old past.

Explore the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum.

The Turkish and Islamic Art Museum is a revolutionary museum for Turkey, being the first in the country to showcase Turkish and Islamic artwork together. Opened in 1914, it was the last museum to open during the Ottoman Empire period. The museum has 1,700 pieces of art, and its carpet collection is among the most impressive in the world.

Journey underground at the Basilica Cistern.

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Istanbul's skyline soars with some of the world's most beautiful and historic monuments, and the beauty continues underneath the pavement, too, thanks to masterpieces of engineering and infrastructure. The primary water reservoir for Constantinople, the Basilica Cistern is cathedral-esque and a sight to see. Built during the 4th century, it is supported by 336 columns and can hold up to 17.5 million gallons of water.

Visit Topkapi Palace.

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This 15th-century palace was once the administrative headquarters for the Ottoman Empire. Now a museum, the venue is full of treasures, from walls festooned with gorgeous paintings to rooms that give way to sumptuous courtyards — you can even explore the opulent former harem. It's one of the best places in Istanbul to learn about the former grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.

Check out the Süleymaniye Mosque.

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Istanbul is not short on impressive mosques, and Süleymaniye Mosque is certainly one of its most beautiful. Considered the masterpiece of architect Mimar Sinan, the mosque was built in the 16th century to honor Sultan Süleyman, the longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman Empire. The central dome stands at a staggering 154 feet tall and the interior is beautifully decorated with colors of gold, green, red, and blue.

Ferry to Istanbul’s Asian side.

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Istanbul stands as an important crossroads between Europe and Asia, and the city itself is divided between the two continents by the Bosphorus Strait. Be sure to immerse yourself in both sides of this rich city in order to best understand its history. There are more than 20 ferry routes across the Bosphorus, and the crossing takes only 15 minutes.

Admire Beylerbeyi Palace.

Across the Bosphorus, Beylerbeyi Palace is a 19th-century estate built as a summer palace for royalty. It was also used as a residence for visiting heads of state. The now-museum is a gorgeous example of interior design and architecture, with nods to both Ottoman and Neo-Baroque styles. The stunning gardens that surround the palace are equally impressive.

Shop around Kadikoy Market.

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Kadikoy Market is part of a buzzy bazaar on Istanbul's Asian side. Overlooking the Sea of Marmara, the market is a historic one, home to more than 4,000 vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to carpets, pottery, textiles, and paintings. It is also one of the best spots in the city to sample Turkish street food and Turkish delights, a jelly candy made with rosewater.

Walk the Kuzguncuk neighborhood.

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Sandwiched between Uskudar and Beylerbeyi, Kuzguncuk is one of the most lively and vibrant neighborhoods in Istanbul's Asian side, and it has always been a melting pot of religions and cultures. You'll see mosques, churches, and synagogues here, plus the neighborhood's funky mishmash of coffee shops, restaurants, tree-lined cobblestone streets, and brightly colored historic homes.

Bargain at the Grand Bazaar.

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Prepare to feast your eyes on the granddaddy of all covered markets. One of the world's oldest and largest venues of its kind, the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul contains a maze of streets and thousands of shops. Vendors sell everything you could possibly think of, so if you're a professional at haggling, this will be like your Super Bowl.

Get a serious scrubbing at Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı.

Wellness has been "on trend" in Turkey for hundreds of years, and visitors can step back into the old ways of wellness with a visit to the iconic Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı. The building dates back to the 16th century and serves as one of the top spots in the city for a classic hamam ritual today. Remember to book accordingly — the hamam is open to women in the morning and men in the afternoon.

Visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pege.

This early Byzantine monastery has a history of miracles and legends tied to it, thanks to a spring that is believed to have magical powers. It's also set on a hilltop, making it a great place to take in city views.

Connect with the local community.

If you like to step into the shoes of a local when you travel, you can do that in Turkey. Agnos recommends visiting the island village of Bozcaada in August to harvest and sell tomatoes with the local community. Or, if you're in Bodrum, join the olive harvest that occurs between September 15 and December 25.

Enjoy the Mediterranean climate.

Istanbul may be a cosmopolitan city, but it is surrounded by nature at every turn, with coastal views, island-style living, forests, and parks. "There are many seaside promenades where locals walk, run, or socialize and hang out," says Dunch. "From early June to the end of September, public beaches on the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara are open." Dunch also recommends enjoying open-air concerts in the summer, or visiting Belgrad Forest, north of the city. "Around Prince's Island," he adds, "sailing and water sports are popular."

Discover your favorite ‘esnaf lokantası’.

Istanbul has some of the top restaurants in Europe, but local, homestyle street food cafes are where the city really shows its heart. "I recommend eating at a craftsmen's eatery," said Dunch. "They are referred to as 'esnaf lokantası,' frequented by shopkeepers and craftsmen in commercially vibrant areas, such as the markets, and they offer underrated and extremely tasty home-style cooking. This is as close as a visitor can get to the heart of Turkish cuisine."

Be entertained at Bomontiada.

The impressive Bomontiada complex is a center for the arts. There's the Ara Güler Museum, restaurants, and a calendar of outdoor concerts and movie screenings, making this the place to go for all forms of entertainment. It also happens to be housed within the once-abandoned Bomonti beer factory, and it was integral to helping redefine this formerly desolate part of the city.

Related Articles

50 Essential Istanbul Travel Tips for Your First Visit to the ‘Bul

I adore Istanbul. Turkey was the third country I ever visited (after Mexico and Italy), and I keep returning over and over. But it’s a complicated city for first-time visitors to grapple with. It’s compact yet sprawling. It’s inexpensive yet luxurious. Even though I’m a dog person, I love that it’s a cat city. Istanbul is, to put it succinctly, complex.

So to make it easier for you, we’ve compiled our top fifty Istanbul travel tips. We cover everything from Istanbul safety to cuisine to mosque etiquette. Our hope is that you have as smooth a first trip to Istanbul as possible, so that you, too, want to return over and over again.

Want to save this post for later? Pin it to save!

Essential Istanbul Travel Tips

I’ve tried to put these in a somewhat logical order, but when writing about a topic this big, things can get out of hand. Basically, I’ve tried to cover every piece of Istanbul travel advice I’d want to tell someone if they’d never set foot in the country before, and I hope the order makes as much sense as can be expected. 

Don’t Show Up without a Visa

Once upon a time (in 2011), many visitors could show up to Attaturk airport sans visa, pay approximately $20 USD, and voila, they’d get a (pretty cool looking) visa stamp put in their passports.

Well, those days are long gone. Today, visitors from most countries need to apply for an eVisa on their website before getting here. 

We cover this process more in-depth in our guide to planning a trip to Turkey , but don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Where to Stay in Istanbul?

You are supposed to have your accommodation information with you when you arrive in Turkey, and the border police may or may not ask you for it when you get here. If they do ask you for it, make sure to have it printed out or downloaded in your phone, since you may not have internet access when you first get here. 

On my last trip to Istanbul from Sofia , I was asked AND our international roaming plans weren’t working. This was at 4 AM. #nightmare  

So, do show up to Istanbul with accommodations prepared. But where to stay?

First, you need to decide which neighborhood in Istanbul you want to stay in. Many first-time visitors to Istanbul stay in Sultanahmet, but I prefer getting out to Beyoglu for a less touristy visit. 

If you want to dig into all our Istanbul neighborhood recommendations, we an entire Istanbul neighborhood hotel guide.  However, if you don’t want to dig through all of that, here are our top three picks (one for each budget category):

• Budget:  A room in a hostel, usually $5-12 USD per night for a dorm bed or under $40 for a double.
• Mid-range:  Around $40-80
• Luxury : Around $100 per night or more

Budget:  For a great budget-friendly hotel, you can stay in single or double rooms at the  Dreamers B&B . Colorful and cozy, the B&B boasts a fabulous location in Beyoglu, less than a kilometer from Taksim Square. You can explore all of Beyoglu from here, and then head to Sultanahmet when you’re ready to see the old city. 

>> Check the pricing, reviews, and availability here. <<

Mid-Range:  For an affordable, yet trendy boutique hotel, we recommend  Peradays . It’s perfect for all Istanbul visitors, from first-timers to Istanbul veterans. The lofted rooms are generously large, so you can spread out and relax after a long day of sightseeing. They also have two cats that live here, Pera and Daisy, which you’ll be happy to greet after counting cats all day when out in the city. 

Luxury:  Istanbul has no shortage of fabulous hotels, but we love   Hammamhane , a boutique apartment-hotel that was originally a hammam, and the sister hotel of Peradays. Built in a historic hammam (Turkish bath), the suites are spacious and luxurious. Located in the heart of Cukurcuma, the antique district, Hammamhane is within walking distance to art galleries, design stores, antique shops, and chic cafés. 

Still can’t decide? Check out our guide to the  best Istanbul neighborhoods and hotels.

When is the Best Time to Visit Istanbul?

My favorite time to visit Istanbul is in May and June when it’s not too hot yet. In May, you even get to avoid the summer vacation crowds (meaning there are way fewer kids and families visiting). 

If you want to avoid crowds, I love visiting Istanbul in winter.  Here’s an overview of Istanbul weather in January to help you get an idea of what to expect if you come in winter. 

Istanbul is such a great city that I’m confident you’ll have a great time no matter when you come. The only times I would try to avoid it is July and August when the heat is simply sweltering. 

What to Pack for Istanbul

We are in the process of creating packing lists to help you know what to pack for Turkey, but here are the top five things you do not want to leave at home:

1. A Lonely Planet guidebook , to help you plan when on the ground. We recommend the updated Lonely Planet Turkey .

2. An unlocked smartphone , so you can buy a cheap SIM card and use apps like Uber and Google Maps. If you don’t have an unlocked phone and it costs too much to get it online, you can buy a cheap but decent one online, like this unlocked Samsung .

3. An extra swimsuit so you can enjoy Turkey’s hammams and beaches without having to put a wet one back on. We like this cute but affordable one-piece .

4. Motion sickness pills for windy roads, Istanbul traffic, ferries, hot air balloon rides, etc. We recommend something natural that uses ginger rather than chemicals to avoid drowsiness, like these motion sickness pills .

5. Sunscreen (if you’re bringing checked luggage) . Sunscreen and other cosmetics can be expensive in Turkey compared to back home. You can bring these ones in checked luggage, or if you are packing carry-on only, I love having a solid sunscreen stick that doesn’t cut into my liquid allowance.

Istanbul Airports

Istanbul airports are confusing, and since a new airport just opened this year, the information on most websites is also horribly out of date. 

The airport code IST used to mean Attaturk Airport,  but now is being routed to Istanbul New Airport. This airport is fifty kilometers from the city center. This takes about an hour to go by car, but I would never leave for an airport in Istanbul less than four hours before take off. Anxious flyers should leave five hours early. Between traffic and insane security protocols, flying out of Istanbul can be a real nightmare.

Here’s an overview of the public transportation options to get from IST to the city center. I personally prefer to use Uber since it’s much faster than the bus (and not too expensive). 

The other airport, Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, is SAW. It’s also fifty kilometers from the city center. Here’s an overview of public transportation options to and from SAW. 

If you prefer the peace of mind that comes with pre-booking an airport transfer, they are relatively inexpensive in Istanbul. We strongly recommend pre-booking your transfer with a reputable transfer company. This one has nearly a thousand reviews with an average of 4.5 stars out of 5. Book here now.

Istanbul Bus Stations

I always plan to take a bus from Istanbul back to Sofia, and then I always cave and decide I’d rather pay the money for a one hour flight than spend the day on the bus. Therefore, I’ve avoided dealing with the bus stations in Istanbul for my last four trips.

If you do decide to use the buses, here’s a great overview of the different stations and which cities they service. 

Istanbul Train Stations

When I took the train from Sofia to Istanbul , we got out at Halkili station and then transferred to a free shuttle for the last hour into the city. 

Trains are a great way to get around Turkey or to travel to nearby Greece and Bulgaria. Until we have more train trips documented, check out the always knowledgable train website  The Man in Seat 61  for information about train travel in Turkey.

Istanbul Taxis

Istanbul taxis have a bad reputation. Luckily, when I’ve needed to get in a yellow cab, I’ve never had an issue. However, you should always be on your toes. 

When using taxis in Istanbul, make sure that the meter is turned on. Always ask ahead of time for the meter. If it’s not on by the time the trip starts, ask again. If the driver refuses, get out of the taxi.

If you’re stressed that the taxi is going out of its way, you can run Google maps on your phone to keep an eye on it (just make sure your phone is on silent so the driving directions don’t get read aloud). Sometimes you’ll realize that Istanbul’s streets really are just that byzantine and there’s no better route. This is great for peace of mind. 

Carry small bills if you’ll be using taxis. Pay as close the fare as possible without needing change. Most drivers will give you change, but others might give you a problem hoping you’ll just give them a tip.

You do not need to tip a taxi driver in Istanbul. Just round up to the nearest lira. 

If you use a taxi from an airport, get one in the official taxi stand line. Never get in a random taxi or go with someone who just grabs your bags or tries to get your attention. 

Remember that taxis in Istanbul are relatively inexpensive compared to most of Europe, so if you do get ripped off a bit keep in mind that the actual value of the scam is probably not very much. 

Uber & Taxi Apps

If the thought of taxis in Istanbul is giving you anxiety, then use Uber instead. The lowest car level is Uber black, but they are priced insanely well. 

You’ll need internet access to get an Uber, so either make sure you have a sim card, and international plan, or find some wifi. 

My only piece of advice for using Ubers in Istanbul: google whether the company is still operating in Istanbul a few days before your trip.

Why? Well, the government is constantly threatening to shut down Uber because the powerful taxi lobby hates them. While they haven’t been successful yet, just make sure they still are there. I found out that Uber left Athens the hard way. 

Get to Know Your Turkish Lira

If you’re coming from a country that uses the USD, GBP, or the Euro, you’ll love the Turkish Lira. Political volatility has hurt the Turkish economy, and thus the Lira has nearly crashed in the last few years.

Double check the exchange rate before your trip, just in case the currency starts to recover.  Listed rates are as of July 2019.

Currency Code:  TRY

Exchange Rate:  1 TRY = 0.16 EUR / 0.18 USD / 0.14 GBP / 0.23 CAD

Most Common Banknotes:  5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200

Most Common Coins:  1, 5Kr, 10Kr, 25Kr, 50Kr

Can I Use My Euros:  Sometimes you can use Euros in Istanbul. If prices are listed in Euros, you can bet the exchange rate is inflated. It’s always better to pay in Lira.

If you’ll be visiting other Balkan countries during your trip, check out our Balkan currency guide .

Tipping in Istanbul 

Tipping is not as common in Istanbul as in the US, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Keep in mind that most of the time, you will not be able to put a tip on a credit card. You need access to small amounts of cash for tips.

Here are the tipping guidelines for different situations:

Restaurants & Bars: tip 5-10%

Taxis: Round up to the nearest Lira

Hammans (Turkish Baths): 10-20%

Housekeeping: 5-10 Lira

Delivery Food: 5-10%

Tour Guides: 20-30 Lira per day per group

Belly Dancers: 5-50 Lira

Salons & Barbers: 15-20%

Using Credit Cards in Istanbul

You will be able to use credit cards at many restaurants, hotels, and other spots in Istanbul that cater to tourists. However, credit card usage is not universal. 

As with the rest of the Balkans, a good rule of thumb is to always ask ahead of time. Between places that don’t take cards, the occasional card reader error, and needing to leave a tip, you’ll always need to have some cash on you. 

Note that American Express is not accepted in most of Europe or Asia, and that includes Istanbul. 

Wifi in Istanbul

I’ve always been able to find decent wifi in Istanbul. Most Istanbul hotels will have free wifi, but double check before you book anything. 

If it’s critical that you be able to check in to wifi during meals, it’s cool to ask restaurants if they have wifi before sitting down (most will). Besides restaurants, it’s common to find wifi at cafes, bars, and even in some public transportation spots. 

Be careful when using public wifi. It’s a good idea to protect your information with a VPN or DNS. I use Smart DNS Proxy which lets me watch that sweet HULU and HBO from anywhere in the world and alerts me if there’s a security issue on my internet connection. 

Censored Internet

You may be surprised to find out that you can’t access Wikipedia, certain hotel sites, or most porn sites. While these are unlikely to ruin your trip, it can make Turkey a difficult place to do online work from. I was trying to write some articles for National Geographic while I was there last year, and I couldn’t access sites I needed to double check place name spellings.

Of course, the issue of Internet Freedom in Turkey (or lack thereof) affects locals much more than it will affect you, but it’s still good to know ahead of time.

You also may choose to refrain from being critical of the government online in your social media posts while you are in the country.

Getting a Sim Card

We are in the process of writing our own guide to getting a sim card in Istanbul (similar to our Serbia sim card and Bulgaria sim card guides). Until we have a full write-up, here are some quick tips.

The main companies for pre-paid tourist sims in Istanbul are Turkcell and Vodafone. Turkcell is supposed to be a bit cheaper, but keep in mind that prices fluctuate.

For a little less than 100 Lira (about $18 USD), you can get a sim with 3 GB of data and 500 local calling minutes. This makes sim card prices in Turkey more expensive than Greece, let alone other Balkan countries. However, if you’re a data fiend, then you need the data. 

Smoking Cigarettes

Smoking is banned inside restaurants and bars. There are typically designated outdoor smoking sections available. There may be separate smoking sections in some places inside, but it’s not common like it is in Greece. 

This is great news for people who want to avoid secondhand smoke. For smokers, the weather in Istanbul is nice so much of the year that you can sit outside much of the year.

There are some places where people will ignore the laws and smoke inside anyway (though still less frequent than in Greece). I would not personally risk breaking the law in Turkey, but it’s up to you. 

Many hotels have smoking accommodations – check before you book if this is crucial for you to enjoy your trip. 

Since Turkey is not in the EU, prescription and medication rules here are different than you may be used to if you come from an EU country. We found that most of what we wanted was available easily, but some things were not. You may be able to get alternatives pretty easy for situations where pharmacies don’t stock a particular brand name that you want.

Pharmacies in Sultanahmet are more expensive than pharmacies in the rest of the city. 

If you plan to buy medications that are cheaper in Turkey than back home, start looking as soon as you get to Istanbul. Since pharmacies are small and owner-operated, you may need to visit a few to find everything you’re looking for. 

Food & Dietary Restrictions

Istanbul is a great place to eat if you are vegan or vegetarian. There are so many restaurant options available, so you can still enjoy a great foodie vacation without cutting corners. Use this vegetarian and vegan guide to Istanbul from one of my favorite local websites. 

If you are traveling to Istanbul and are concerned about how your food allergies will be handled, you’ll be happy to know that most of the restaurants in the busiest parts of the city have servers who speak excellent English. It should not be difficult for you to communicate your food allergy while in the city.

Don’t Drink the Water

When I first went to Istanbul in 2011, we were told to avoid the tap water at all costs. Technically the water is now clean enough to drink, but it still has a funky taste that I would avoid. So while you don’t need to freak out and brush your teeth with bottled water, skip drinking directly from the tap.

Get to Know Your Turkish Coffee

Turkish coffee is made by a special brewing process that uses unfiltered coffee grounds. The result? It’s thicker than you may be used to back home (unless you’re from the rest of the Balkans, where this Turkish coffee might just go by another name).

It’s delicious, but you may find it to be an acquired taste. No trip to Istanbul is complete without at least having one cup (or five).

Turkish Wine

While Turkey is one of the oldest wine regions in the world, it’s modern wine culture is actually intimately tied to modern Turkish democracy. Kemal Attaturk actually established the country’s first commercial winery in the 1920s. 

Turkish wine doesn’t get exported widely, so make sure to ask your server for recommendations to pair with your meals.

Alcohol Prices

You will probably find that your money goes very far in Istanbul. That is, until happy hour. The reason? Alcohol prices in Turkey are shockingly high compared to other Istanbul prices.

The reason prices are so high is that the government has put a heavy sin tax on alcohol. Prices for beer and raki have increased over 600% since Erdoğan came to power in 2003. According to Politico:

Erdoğan has made no secret of his disdain for drinking, once declaring that “whoever drinks alcohol is an alcoholic.” On top of taxes, the AKP has introduced restrictions on alcohol sales. Since 2013, shops are banned from selling booze after 10 p.m. and no alcohol may be sold within 100 meters of a mosque. Advertising of alcohol — just like cigarettes — is prohibited, and alcohol and tobacco products are often blurred out on Turkish television.

While Turkish is the official language, there are multiple minority languages spoken in Turkey as well. If you want to pick up a few Turkish phrases before your trip, we have a section in our Turkey trip planner with about a dozen phrases that will come in handy while you’re here. 

If you don’t speak Turkish, you’ll be happy to know that you’ll find most people in service and tourism working in Istanbul speak excellent English. When in doubt, have a sim card and Google translate on your phone.

The Turkish Alphabet

The Turkish alphabet is based on the Latin alphabet, but it incorporates diacritical marks to change the traditional pronunciations of certain letters. In addition, the letters Q, V, and W are only used in loan words and when typing foreign names.

Use this Turkish alphabet explainer to learn the pronunciation of letters in Turkey. 

Safety in Istanbul

Istanbul, like most major European cities, is mostly safe. Much of the danger associated with the government is aimed at locals, and tourists will rarely be affected.

Like all major cities, you need to be aware of the possibility of terrorism. However, statistically, its unlikely for an incident to happen during your trip. You can check the US State Department website for current advisory warnings.

The real risks for tourist are the same things that can happen in any major city: pickpockets, tourist scams, etc. You should use the same common sense that you use in any large city.

Read:  Is Istanbul Safe? 13 Tips to Stay Safe in Istanbul

Common Tourist Scams

Tourist scams happen wherever tourists gather. So pay extra attention to your surroundings whenever you’re in the major tourist sites.

One major scam is for people to invite you for a drink. Don’t have a drink with a stranger or take a recommendation for a restaurant or bar from someone on the street. When you get there, they will either rob you or overcharge you.

Another scam is for someone to just start guiding you around without asking you if you want a tour guide. Then they guilt you into paying for the tour. Avoid talking to strangers and don’t go anywhere with anyone you don’t know.

Beware of shoe shiners guilting you into getting a shoe shine. They’ve targeted you because you are an obvious foreigner, and they will overcharge you.

Always check that your bill only includes the dishes you ordered. Most restaurants would not pull a scam and overcharge you, but a few scrupulous ones will. 

Finally, avoid pickpockets by keeping your stuff put away. Never leave your bag unattended (I like to sit with a chair leg through one of the loops on my bag). I also use bags with anti-theft features to help make sure I’m a less desirable target.

Politics…Don’t Talk About (Until You Get Home)

Turkey is the only place in the Balkans where you have to deal with this issue, but it is an important one. Follow this advice from the US State Department to avoid becoming an unwitting target. 

Participation in demonstrations not explicitly approved by the Government of Turkey, as well as criticism of the government, including on social media, can result in arrest.

What to Do in an Emergency

If you have an emergency, notify emergency services. Keep these numbers handy just in case:

Ambulance : 112  Police : 155 Fire : 110  Tourism Police : (0212) 5274503 

Electrical Outlets

Turkey uses type F electrical outlets (also typically compatible with type C and E). This is the same as the rest of continental Europe.

Squat Toilets

I saw my first squat toilet in Istanbul (though it would be far from my last squat toilet). In Istanbul, most stalls in women’s bathrooms will be western-style flush toilets, but there will sometimes be squat toilets as an option in one of the stalls. 

You most likely will not need to use one unless you travel out into rural Turkey. 

Don’t Call it Constantinople

Constantinople fell in the 15th century. At this point, if you’re walking around calling the city Constantinople and refusing to call it Istanbul, you’re probably a jerk.

Learn a Bit of Turkish History Before You Get Here

The history of Istanbul goes back to Emperor Constantine (though technically it was a Greek city even before that). If you want to brush up on the city’s history before you come, you can check out these podcasts:

• The History of Rome Podcast  
• The History of Byzantium Podcast
• Ottoman History Podcast

Enjoy the Call to Prayer

If this is the first Muslim-majority city that you’ll be visiting, get ready for a treat! Listening to the call to prayer is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have anywhere in the world. Even non-Muslims can appreciate the beauty and tradition of this moment.

The call to prayer, known as the ezan , happens five times a day. The sound you’re hearing comes from the speakers in the minarets of the city’s various mosques. 

Respecting Islam

Turkey is a secular Islamic country, and the vast majority of Turks are Muslims. Whether they are believers or not, practicing Muslims or not, this is a part of the cultural heritage of almost everyone you meet.

If you can’t be respectful of Islam by adhering to the few (extremely minor) ways to show respect, then just stay home. Don’t come and be an ugly tourist. This would include asking people blunt questions about why Islam has various rules, etc.

The only people you should ask about Islamic practices are tour guides on education tours about Islam or museum guides. It’s not a local’s job to teach you about religion. They’re just trying to live their lives. 

This guide from Passion Passport offers a great overview of how to be respectful of Islam in Istanbul. 

Visiting Mosques

You absolutely need to visit some mosques during your time in Istanbul. To do this properly, you’ll need to adhere to a few simple rules.

1. Only visit when it’s not prayer time . If you see that a prayer service is going on wait until it is over. Don’t try to visit on Friday nights. 

2. Take your shoes off . At most mosques, you will leave your shoes outside, but at the Blue Mosque, you’ll carry them with you in a plastic bag.

3. Men should wear pants rather than shorts. Remove any hats before entering.

 4. Women should also be covered up . Wear clothes that go past the elbow and should be covered in either pants or a long skirt. If it’s hot out, you can just bring leggings and a jacket to put on before you enter. Most mosques will have cover-ups for tourists outside.

5. Women’s hair should be completely covered . I like to bring my own scarf, but most mosques in Istanbul will have headscarves that you can borrow for your visit. 

Get Out of Sultanahmet

Don’t spend every minute in Sultanahmet. In fact, I think it’s best to spend most of your trip outside of this congested (expensive area). I’d rather come to visit the sites for a day or two, and then I spend the rest of my trip in the cool parts of Beyoglu and in Kadikoy.

Be Considerate of the Restoration Work

Yes, the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are under restoration right now. In all likelihood, these two ancient buildings will be under some kind of restoration for the rest of time. Don’t complain about it. Instead, be grateful to every restoration project that happened in the past that allowed you to be lucky enough to see these sacred places.

How to Haggle at the Bazaars

Don’t accept any listed price when in the Grand Bazaar – the whole point is to haggle! Don’t worry about what they quote you. I like to go by this advice:

I pay absolutely no attention to what the first asking price is. I decide how much I am willing to spend, and then I offer 50% less than what my final offer will be. If my offer is rejected out of hand, then I know that there is no point in spending any time with the salesperson. If he moves his price in my direction, I will start to move up in 5% to 10% intervals. If we never reach an agreement about price, I simply say I am sorry but I cannot spend anything above my final offer. I either ask to see something less expensive or I start to walk away. Almost always the salesperson will call me back and we find something in the neighborhood of the price I have already pre-determined in my head. For us, the secret is not to become so caught up in the game that you feel you have to “win” by offering prices that are higher than what you originally decide to spend. If you cannot get your price, keep walking and looking. You will likely find something similar on the next street and a salesperson who will deal with you more equitably. It is a poor strategy to overly praise what you are thinking of purchasing, and certainly a mistake to let the salesperson see that you really want what you are attempting to purchase. Make them believe that you are only semi-interested in the product.

I also like to keep small amounts of cash in different pockets. That way I can get my cash out and show that I literally can’t pay more than I’m offering, and they can take it or leave it. 

Turkish Bath Etiquette

When in Turkey, you must go to a Turkish bath! Called hammams, they’re everywhere. In fact, you could go to a new one every day of your trip and not run out of places to relax.

A few things to know before your first hammam trip:

1. Men and Women have separate facilities (or different hours). There are no co-ed Turkish baths.

2. You’ll be given a towel to cover yourself. Men typically only wear a towel. Women are also typically given a pair of underwear. 

3. If you don’t want to wear the underwear you’re given (or go naked), you can wear your own underwear. Plain black will blend in the best. Plus size women might want to just bring a pair of plain black underwear just to be safe in case the one-size-fits-all pair they give you is a bit snug.

4. Expect the women’s side to be staffed with women and the men’s side to be staffed by men.

5. Expect to tip 10-20% at the end of your visit. You will need to tip this in cash. 

6. Some hammams take credit cards (though not for the tip), but not all do. Call ahead if this will be critical.

Don’t Eat Lunch at Topkapi Palace

I’ve traveled to over sixty countries, and the costs of a simple lunch at Topkapi Palace shocked me to my very core. The views from the courtyard are stunning, so it’s worth coming by. But don’t show up famished needing a meal! 

Spend Some Time on the Water

Whether you walk on the Bosphorus, take a cruise in the city at night,  hire a private yacht, or go swimming, do not go to Istanbul and not spend at least some time on the water! The city is blessed with some of the most beautiful coastlines anywhere in the world.

If you get stuck in Sultanahmet and don’t get out, you’ll miss how beautiful the Bosphorus and Golden Horn truly are. 

Don’t Forget to See Europe & Asia

Okay, I’ll admit it. I’m super guilty of this. There’s so much to do on the European side of Istanbul that I get caught up and forget to make it to Asia. But what’s the fun of being in a city that straddles two continents if you don’t take advantage?

There are some great things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul , so make sure you have time to enjoy them!

Don’t Miss the Sunsets

Sunset in the Balkans are epic (my theory is that this is the only benefit to the teensy bit of extra smog we have in the region). If you can, try to be somewhere to take advantage of the great sunsets (or sunrises) the city has to offer. 

Istanbul Shopping

I think Istanbul is one of the best shopping cities in the world, and I don’t just mean the Grand Bazaar!

I always come back with extra bags of art, Turkish delight, and too many boxes of tea. If you want to know what’s special to buy in Istanbul, check out our Turkish souvenir and Istanbul shopping guide.  

Give Yourself Some Free Time

I personally think most travelers cram way too much into their days. While in Istanbul give yourself some time to slow down and appreciate the atmosphere.

Sip your tea slowly, have a coffee, enjoy a long mezze, and stroll aimlessly down the city’s streets. You’ll get just as much enjoyment from people watching in Istanbul as you will trying to hit every single “must-see” museum.

Wear Comfy Shoes

If you plan on hitting all of the best things to do in Istanbul, prepared to have tired feet at the end of the day! While you may be jealous of how (ridiculously) fashionable people are in Istanbul, you’ll be happier if you’re wearing shoes that can keep up with your tour schedule. 

Istanbul & Cappadocia – Not as Close as You Might Like

A lot of travelers want to combine a trip to Istanbul and Cappadocia, but they’re not exactly near each other. We don’t suggest doing Cappadocia as a day trip from Istanbul. If you do want to combine these two Turkish hotspots, check out our guide to  how to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia  and  our suggested Cappadocia itinerary.

Only have time for one of these cities? Check out  Istanbul or Cappadocia: Which Turkish Destination Is Right For You?

Don’t Feel like You Need to Hear a Spiel about Carpets 

If you’re in a situation where someone starts a sales pitch, you don’t have to listen to it. While I personally find salespeople in Israel and Jordan much pushier than in Turkey, Istanbul might be a shock if you’ve never been to this part of the world before. 

If your tour guide takes you to a carpet store or other shop, they would get a commission. You do not need to stay and hear the pitch or buy anything. You can extricate yourself from the situation politely, but don’t feel you need to stay. 

Enroll in the STEP Program

If you’re an American and you are concerned about the possibility of terrorism or political unrest while in Turkey, you can enroll in the State Department’s STEP Program . This lets the government know your travel plans, and they will also email you to alert you if anything happens on the ground.

To be honest, I don’t use it when I go to Turkey (though I probably should) since I feel pretty safe there. I have used it while traveling in Tunisia during protests, and I appreciated the up-to-date emails with what to look out for and areas to stay away from.

There is a similar program for  Canadians . If you are a citizen of another country, check with your government to see if they provide these services. 

Don’t Forget about Travel Insurance!

It’s always a good idea to travel to Turkey or anywhere in Europe with a valid  travel insurance  policy. Istanbul is a very safe place to travel, but accidents or theft can easily ruin your trip if you don’t have the travel insurance coverage to recover the losses. Recently my aunt fell on a train in France and needed surgery, but luckily her travel insurance covered the costs in full. Thank goodness!

For travel insurance, I use  World Nomads .  I’ve been a happy customer of theirs for almost three years, and I’ve never had an issue when making a claim. I’m happy to refer them to anyone I meet.

>> Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here. <<

More Istanbul Travel Resources

We have a ton of resources to help you plan your trip to Istanbul! We’re working on our massive  things to do post in Istanbul and our Istanbul safety tips , plus you can check out our  guide to the best Instagram spots around Istanbul,  our favorite  Istanbul neighborhoods and where to stay , and tips for  shopping in Istanbul .

If you will be visiting in winter, we have a special  winter in Istanbul  guide plus an overview of Istanbul weather in January.

If you want to be in the city for just a few days (four or less), check out our  Istanbul city break guide , which breaks down the best of the city so you won’t miss anything!

For more general Turkey information, check out this guide to  planning a trip to Turkey (including visa information)  and this guide to other  beautiful places to visit in Turkey . You can also check out our  Balkan currency guide , which explains how the Turkish lira works and guidelines for tipping in Istanbul.

We have tons more Turkey and Balkans resources, and we publish new content nearly daily. Bookmark our  Turkey  and  Balkans  travel pages so you can find any new resources that come out before your trip!

Pin these Istanbul Travel Tips for Your Trip!

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Spread across two continents and between two seas, Istanbul is a city of empires past. The Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Galata Tower are just some of the many historic structures scattered throughout the city. Sip a Turkish tea as you float between Europe and Asia on a ferry and watch the palaces, mansions, and modern museums pass by. —Katie Nadworny

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Must-see attractions in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Sultanahmet

Right in the heart of İstanbul’s historic center, this sacred Byzantine building remains an important symbol of power.

Topkapı Palace

Topkapı is the subject of more colourful stories than most of the world's museums put together. Libidinous sultans, ambitious courtiers, beautiful…

Kariye Mosque

İstanbul has more than its fair share of Byzantine monuments, but few are as drop-dead gorgeous as this mosaic- and fresco-laden church. Nestled in the…

Süleymaniye Mosque

The Süleymaniye crowns one of İstanbul's seven hills and dominates the Golden Horn, providing a landmark for the entire city. Though it's not the largest…

Basilica Cistern

This subterranean structure was commissioned by Emperor Justinian and built in 532. The largest surviving Byzantine cistern in İstanbul, it was…

Blue Mosque

İstanbul's most photogenic building was the grand project of Sultan Ahmet I (r 1603–17), whose tomb is located on the north side of the site facing…

Grand Bazaar

The colourful and chaotic Grand Bazaar is the heart of İstanbul's Old City and has been so for centuries. Starting as a small vaulted bedesten (warehouse)…

Pera Museum

There's plenty to see at this impressive museum, but its major draw is undoubtedly the 2nd-floor exhibition of paintings featuring Turkish Orientalist…

İstanbul Archaeology Museums

The city's foremost archaeological museum is housed in three buildings close to Topkapı Palace. There are many highlights, but the sarcophagi from the…

Dolmabahçe Palace

The Bosphorus Suburbs

These days it’s fashionable for architects and critics influenced by the less-is-more aesthetic of Bauhaus masters to sneer at buildings such as…

Kadıköy Produce Market

An aromatic, colourful and alluring showcase of the best fresh produce in the city, the Kadıköy Pazarı is foodie central for locals and is becoming an…

Museum of Innocence

The painstaking attention to detail in this fascinating museum/piece of conceptual art will certainly provide every amateur psychologist with a theory or…

Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts

This Ottoman palace was built in 1524 for İbrahim Paşa, childhood friend, brother-in-law and grand vizier of Süleyman the Magnificent. It now houses a…

Rahmi M Koç Museum

This splendid museum is dedicated to the history of transport, industry and communications in Turkey. Founded by the head of the Koç industrial group, one…

Spice Bazaar

Vividly coloured spices are displayed alongside jewel-like lokum (Turkish delight) at this Ottoman-era marketplace, providing eye candy for the thousands…

İstanbul Modern

This lavishly funded and innovative museum has an extensive collection of Turkish art and also stages a constantly changing and uniformly excellent…

İstiklal Caddesi

Once called the Grand Rue de Pera but renamed İstiklal (Independence) in the early years of the Republic, Beyoğlu's premier boulevard is a perfect…

Beylerbeyi Palace

This opulently furnished 1865 building was designed by Sarkis Balyan, brother of Nikoğos (architect of Dolmabahçe Palace). It delighted both Sultan Abdül…

The Byzantine emperors loved nothing more than an afternoon at the chariot races, and this rectangular arena alongside Sultanahmet Park was their venue of…

Patriarchal Church of St George

Dating from 1836, this church is part of the Greek Patriarchate compound. Inside the church are artefacts including Byzantine mosaics, religious relics…

Aya Sofya Tombs

Part of the Aya Sofya complex but entered via Babıhümayun Caddesi, these tombs are the final resting places of five 16th- and 17th-century sultans –…

Eyüp Sultan Mosque

This important complex marks the supposed burial place of Ebu Eyüp el-Ensari, a friend of the Prophet who fell in battle outside the walls of…

Rüstem Paşa Mosque

Nestled in the middle of the busy Tahtakale shopping district, this diminutive mosque is a gem. Dating from 1560, it was designed by Sinan for Rüstem Paşa…

Yavuz Sultan Selim Mosque

The sultan to whom this mosque was dedicated (Süleyman the Magnificent's father, Selim I, known as 'the Grim') is famous for having killed two of his…

Little Aya Sofya

Justinian and his wife Theodora built this little church sometime between 527 and 536, just before Justinian built Aya Sofya. You can still see their…

Gülhane Park

Gülhane Park was once part of the grounds of Topkapı Palace, accessible only to the royal court. These days crowds of locals come here to picnic under the…

Museum of Great Palace Mosaics

When archaeologists from the University of Ankara and Scotland's University of St Andrews excavated around the nearby Arasta Bazaar in the 1930s and 1950s…

Mihrimah Sultan Mosque

The great Sinan put his stamp on the entire city and this mosque, constructed in the 1560s next to the Edirnekapı section of the historic land walls, is…

Museum of Turkish Jews

Housed in a building attached to the Neve Shalom synagogue near the Galata Tower, this museum was established in 2001 to commemorate the 500th anniversary…

Spiral Column

Coming up out of a hole in the ground, this strange column was once much taller and was topped by three serpents' heads. Originally cast to commemorate a…

Hünkâr Kasrı

Built over a grand archway attached to the New Mosque, this small kasrı (pavilion) or mahfili (loge) dates from the same period and functioned as a…

Opened to great fanfare in September 2019, the new home of the Koç Foundation's collection of contemporary art – one of the most impressive in Turkey –…

Obelisk of Theodosius

In the centre of the Hippodrome, this immaculately preserved pink granite obelisk was carved in Egypt during the reign of Thutmose III (r 1549–1503 BC)…

Kaiser Wilhelm's Fountain

Near the northern end of the Hippodrome, this little gazebo with beautiful stonework was presented to the sultan and his people as a token of friendship…

Arasta Bazaar

This historic arcade of shops was once part of the külliye (mosque complex) of the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii). Mosques built by the great and…

Rough-Stone Obelisk

After sacking Aya Sofya in 1204, the soldiers of the Fourth Crusade tore all the plates from this obelisk, at the Hippodrome's southern end, in the…

The only remaining built section of the Hippodrome hints at how monumental the arena was. The level of galleries that once topped this section was damaged…

Galata Bridge

To experience İstanbul at its most magical, walk across the Galata Bridge at sunset. At this time, the historic Galata Tower is surrounded by shrieking…

Rumeli Hisarı

Prior to construction of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge in the 1980s, this massive fortress was the major landmark on this part of the Bosphorus. Built by…

Atik Valide Mosque

This is one of the two great İstanbul mosque complexes designed by Mimar Sinan. Though not as spectacular as the Süleymaniye, it was designed to a similar…

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Istanbul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Leonardo Patrizi | Getty Images

19 Best Things to Do in Istanbul, Turkey

The world's only city that sits on the two continents of Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus strait, Istanbul possesses so many layers that make it absolutely unique. A megacity that has seen the rise and fall of two empires, the former

• All Things To Do

Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) free

Sultan Ahmed I was determined to build a mosque that rivaled the nearby Hagia Sophia , and most would agree that he accomplished this task or, at least, came close. Since the early 1600s, the Blue Mosque has been quite the sight to behold, with an array of domes, semidomes and minarets (or narrow towers). It's also one of the biggest tourist draws in Istanbul.

Visitors say this mosque offers stunning architecture inside and out. It can, however, get busy, so consider arriving early. And remember, the Blue Mosque is an active religious site, so dress conservatively. Women should wear headscarves, as is custom. If you forgot to bring one, you can borrow one from the mosque.

Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Cami) Hagia Sophia Mosque (Ayasofya Cami) free

Tourists flock en masse to the Hagia Sophia for its stunning architecture, glorious interior views and historical significance. Built between 532 and 537, the building was a church for nearly a thousand years. It then served as a mosque from 1453 until 1935, before becoming a secular museum. In 2020, the building once again became a working mosque. 

Once the biggest cathedral in the world, the Hagia Sophia is considered the magnum opus of Byzantine architecture. Visitors say it is a must-see when in Istanbul and recommend taking a guided tour for more information about the history of the site. 

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici) Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici)

The Basilica Cistern is Istanbul's largest surviving Byzantine cistern and one of its most unique historic sites. Constructed in 532 for Justinian I, this sprawling underground water reservoir –which is roughly the size of two football fields – once supplied water to the Great Palace of Constantinople, a large palace that served as the main residence for local emperors for centuries. Though the palace no longer exists, the cistern was renovated in 1985 to welcome visitors. In 2022, it reopened to the public after a five-year restoration effort. Its most noteworthy feature is a pair of Medusa heads that sit upside down at the base of two columns.

According to past travelers, the Basilica Cistern is easy to miss but worth checking out, despite its lack of interior attractions. Many said the site is beautifully preserved, but queues to buy tickets and enter can get quite long, so several recommended visiting with a tour group. Multiple half- and full-day tours that include stops at the cistern are offered on Viator ; tour prices range from $39 to $686 per person.

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Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi) Grand Bazaar (Kapaliçarsi) free

Located within walking distance of must-visit sights like the Blue Mosque , the Basilica Cistern  and Süleymaniye Mosque , the Grand Bazaar is one of the biggest and oldest covered shopping markets in the world. It regularly overwhelms visitors with its more than 60 streets of 3,000-plus shops, each accompanied by an overzealous vendor. Products range from hand-loomed carpets to antiques, traditional textiles to copper and silver artisan objects, artisan jewelry and ceramics to clothing and much more.

Despite the size and chaos of this bazaar, shoppers say you'll find yourself strangely at ease with the rhythm of the market, thanks in part to the friendliness of the vendors, who are far from pushy. Remember, though, that Westerners are often quoted higher rates for items here, so come prepared to bargain. Most merchants will drop their rates by as much as 50% when a customer refuses to pay full price. What's more, additional discounts are often given to those who pay with cash, although most vendors do accept credit cards.

Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarsisi) Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarsisi)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take a lunch break at Pandeli Restaurant  inside the bazaar, which has been around since the 1950s serving classic Turkish dishes in a refined ambiance. Make reservations in advance and don't miss the stairs that lead up to the restaurant on the left side of the bazaar's Eminönü entrance. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

Built in the 17th century from the revenue of the Ottoman administrative district in Egypt (and therefore also known as the Egyptian Bazaar) this historic bazaar is the second most famous covered market in Istanbul. A must-visit for gourmets who love to shop for traditional ingredients, the more than 80 shops inside the market have a wide and fragrant spectrum of spices, nuts, dried fruits, Turkish coffee and traditional sweets.

Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) free

Nestled within Istanbul's historic Fatih district by the Golden Horn, Istanbul University and the Grand Bazaar , Süleymaniye Mosque is considered one of the city's most impressive Ottoman mosques. Built between 1550 and 1557 after being commissioned by its namesake, Süleyman I, this grand structure features multiple gardens and a large dome, plus high-end finishes like mother-of-pearl window shutters, painted corbels, traditional ceramic tiles and stained-glass windows.

Recent travelers described their time at this mosque as "amazing" and "peaceful," adding that it is just as stunning as the Blue Mosque and cannot be missed. What's more, this attraction is not as central and popular as others like the Hagia Sophia , meaning you won't have to rub elbows with lots of tourists while visiting. But remember, like other religious sites in the area, Süleymaniye Mosque hosts six prayer services every day, so expect occasional closures and dress conservatively. If you forget to wear long pants or pack a scarf to cover your head, the mosque offers loaner coverings at its entrance.

Rüstem Pasha Mosque (Rüstem Pasa Camii) Rüstem Pasha Mosque (Rüstem Pasa Camii)

One of Sultanahmet's lesser-known mosques is also one of its most beautiful. Designed by the famous Ottoman imperial architect Mimar Sinan (who also designed the Süleymaniye Mosque ) and completed in 1563, the structure was dedicated to the Grand Vizier Rüstem Pasha. The mosque's most important trait are the large quantities of Iznik tiles that decorate its interior in a wide variety of floral and geometric patterns. It's a definite deviation from Mimar Sinan's usual style, which favored the structure rather than its internal decoration.

Previous travelers commented that this more hidden sight is a definite stop for anyone interested in Islamic art and Ottoman architecture. They add the design impresses deeply with its hand-painted tilework as well as its majestic dome. Travelers have also commented that the mosque is a welcome respite from Istanbul's busy streets.

Topkapi Palace Museum (Topkapi Sarayi Müzesi) Topkapi Palace Museum (Topkapi Sarayi Müzesi)

Topkapi Palace served as the home of the Ottoman Sultans from 1478 to 1856 and is one of Istanbul's most popular attractions. It officially became a museum in 1924, shortly after the end of the Ottoman era, and features brilliant architecture, manicured courtyards and extensive weaponry, porcelain, cutlery, art and fabric collections.

Previous visitors loved admiring the palace's architecture and perusing its exhibits, saying you'll need several hours to take in everything there is to see. Popular exhibits include the kitchens, the calligraphy area and the armaments room. Many also recommend strolling through the property's gardens and refueling at the on-site coffee shop, where picturesque views of the Golden Horn await you.

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Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri) Istanbul Archaeological Museums (Istanbul Arkeoloji Müzeleri)

At the Istanbul Archaeological Museums, which opened near the Topkapi Palace Museum  in 1869, you'll find more than a million antiquities displayed throughout three buildings: the Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Orient Museum and the Tiled Kiosk Museum. Exhibitions offer a wealth of artifacts from the Assyrian, Hittite, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations.

Travelers have commented on the beauty of the museum structures themselves and appreciated the vast collection at this underrated museum. Others recommended seeing the Sarcophagus of Alexander, a highlight in the collection.

The Beyoglu Neighborhood The Beyoglu Neighborhood

The heart of Istanbul's local life, Beyoglu, once known as Pera, was the center of European aristocratic settlement during the Ottoman era. The neoclassical architecture of its structures all speak of this past. Starting with the new Ataturk Cultural Center  in the famous Taksim Square, the equally famous Istiklal Avenue stretches all the way to Tünel Square, where the historic Tünel funicular station is located as one of the world's oldest subterranean urban railways.

When walking down Istiklal, make sure to stop and explore the many historic shopping arcades, restaurants, art galleries and churches hidden in the side streets. Standouts include the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, the city's largest Catholic Church; the Istanbul Cinema Museum , exhibiting the history of Turkish cinema inside a stunning former mansion from the 19th century; and the art gallery Casa Botter inside a renovated and repurposed art nouveau apartment building from the 1900s.

Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi)

Certainly one of Istanbul's most iconic structures, the Galata Tower was first built during the Byzantine era, rebuilt by the Genoese, who gave it the stone mesh exterior it still possesses today, and later used as a prison during the Ottoman period. Today, the tower welcomes visitors who can climb to the top to enjoy a gorgeous 360-degree view of Istanbul.

Travelers have remarked that the tower is located in the city's "coolest" neighborhood and noted that the view from the top is especially amazing at night. Others commented that the tower itself is beautiful, though they felt the steep entry fee wasn't worth the experience.

Dolmabahce Palace Dolmabahce Palace

Sitting along the Bosphorus near the Kabatas tram stop and the Besiktas  ferry port, Dolmabahçe Palace's jaw-dropping beauty and historical importance impresses visitors. Built in the 19th century, the palace was used by the final Ottoman sultans as their primary residence and administrative seat. The interior and exterior architecture showcase a mix of European and Ottoman designs that can only be found at this global crossroad. Make sure to also visit the National Painting Museum next door (included in the ticket), which showcases around 200 paintings from the palace's collection that spans Turkish and international artists from the 19th century.

Past travelers were wowed by the palace's extravagant interior, although some wished photography was permitted and felt tours were rushed and lacked information. Several visitors also reported long ticket lines, and the property's website  cautions that the ticket office closes early once all passes have been distributed for the day, so plan on arriving early.

The Besiktas Neighborhood The Besiktas Neighborhood

After exploring the Dolmabahçe Palace , a stroll in the Besiktas neighborhood at large is a great way to delve into local life, away from the tourist highlights. Walk up Süleyman Seba Avenue to reach Akaretler, the 19th-century row houses originally built for those who worked at Dolmabahçe Palace. They're now filled with modern shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Stroll down Çiragan Avenue to reach Yildiz Park, one of the city's largest public parks with two Ottoman-era pavilions that now serve as cafes and enjoy some time away from the crowds. Right across the park, gaze at one of Istanbul's most iconic hotels with its ornate gates, the Çiragan Palace Kempinski, inside a former Ottoman palace. If you still have the energy, continue on Çiragan Avenue to Ortaköy Square to enjoy a waterfront view of the famous Bosphorus Bridge with the Ortaköy Mosque built in the 1850s right before it.

The best way to reach Besiktas is via bus, however, the neighborhood also has its own ferry port with transfers available from Eminönü (Old City).

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The Nisantasi Neighborhood The Nisantasi Neighborhood

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make sure to visit Kalyon Kültür , an art and culture space inside a beautifully renovated Ottoman mansion built in 1889. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

It's in this neighborhood that you'll find the city's residents shopping for the latest collections from Turkish and international designers. Apart from Beymen , Turkey's most exclusive department store, you'll also find brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Chanel plus the atelier and showrooms of some of Istanbul's most important fashion designers. The neighborhood is, however, also home to brands such as Gap, Massimo Dutti, Zara and Marks & Spencer, pleasing shopping crowds of all budgets in one go.

Galataport Galataport

Much more than the world's first underground cruise ship terminal, Galataport is filled with restaurants, cafes, shops and a wide boardwalk that all face the Bosphorus. Apart from Istanbul Modern , Galataport's other cultural offering is the Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture , designed by the famed Turkish architect Emre Arolat's firm. It has a vast collection that presents Turkish art from the late 19th-century Ottoman period to the end of the 20th century. The port is also home to the luxurious Peninsula Hotel; three of its four buildings are renovated heritage structures overlooking the Old City.

Travelers have remarked that the port is modern and has lots of branded storefronts and restaurants and that the views are incredible. They add that the modern design of Galataport and the historic architecture of nearby structures gives visitors the best of both worlds.

Istanbul Modern Istanbul Modern

Inside a stunning waterfront structure by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop, Istanbul Modern is the city's most important hub for contemporary art with its permanent and temporary exhibitions. The collection focuses mainly on pioneering Turkish artists and also includes a photography collection. Make sure to visit the museum's rooftop that faces the Bosphorus and the Old City and features shallow pools that reflect the horizon.

Previous visitors have commended the large variety of artworks, including all types of art, media, sculpture and interactive exhibits. Other guests recommended the rooftop and its fantastic view of the historic city center.

The Kadiköy Neighborhood The Kadiköy Neighborhood

U.S. News Insider Tip: Heading to Kadiköy Market? Start your journey on Günesli Bahçe Street and then get lost among the offerings, especially the many little eateries selling street food. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

Istanbul's Asian side (or Anatolian side as the locals like to say) is often completely overlooked by tourists, but it's the perfect locale for those who want to have a genuine local experience. Kadiköy is very down-to-earth and still very Turkish, largely untouched by the cosmopolitan air that is prevalent on the European side. After arriving at the Kadiköy ferry station, the first stop should be the vast Kadiköy Market, a network of interconnected streets that are filled with vendors selling everything from fresh fish to produce, cheeses to pickled vegetables, coffee to nuts, offal to honey and so much more.

Beylerybeyi Palace Beylerybeyi Palace

Another hidden gem Istanbul's Anatolian (Asian) side, the breathtakingly ornate Beylerbeyi Palace was built between 1863 and 1865 under the order of Ottoman Sultan Abdülaziz. It served as a summer residence and state guesthouse. The waterfront palace was designed by Sarkis Balyan, who, along with other members of the Armenian Balyan family, designed such other icons as the Dolmabahçe  and Çiragan Palaces. A confluence of Western and Eastern architectural styles, the interior of the lavish palace is filled with Turkish Hereke carpets; French Baccarat crystal chandeliers; and Chinese, Japanese, French and German ceramics, to name a few.

Previous travelers were astounded by the beauty and design of the palace, which exhibited wonderful craftsmanship. The palace's coffee shop was also recommended due to the stunning Bosphorus view.

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Büyükada Büyükada

U.S. News Insider Tip: This island is very popular on the weekends, so if you'd rather avoid the crowds, visit on a weekday. – Feride Yalav-Heckeroth

The largest of Istanbul's Princes' Islands is certainly its most popular and is the best way to really take a break from the city's endearingly chaotic energy. Büyükada (which literally translates to 'large island') was a popular getaway for Istanbul's prosperous Greeks, Jews and Armenians who had lavish summer mansions built to accommodate their vacationing needs. Nowadays, these Ottoman-era mansions are some of the most important attractions on the island, and locals and visitors alike arrive in droves to stroll along the streets to gaze up at the historic architecture. Some of the most notable houses are located on Çankaya Avenue.

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5 Days in Istanbul Itinerary & The Best Travel Guide

Last updated on April 6th, 2024 at 12:32 pm

Istanbul is one of our favourite cities in the world and this is why we’ve put so much love into this 5 days in Istanbul Itinerary and Guide you’re about to read. If you’re planning to see Istanbul in 5 days, in this article, you’ll find everything you need to plan the perfect trip to this enchantress of a city.

Perhaps you’ve come across it in another post of ours and know it already. Or maybe this is the first time you hear about it. We love bridges. Not only in terms of architecture. We first and foremost love bridges for their superpower, which is their ability to connect. Places, people, cultures.

This is why we find Istanbul so fascinating. The entire city is a bridge that connects two continents, Europe and Asia. In fact, it connects two different worlds. The East and the West.

Throughout this 5 days in Istanbul itinerary, it is mostly this blend of cultures that you’ll be trying to explore. Ultimately, this is also what makes every traveller fall unconditionally in love with this unique and beyond-words charming global city.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Also, this article contains sponsored content. For more information, visit our Disclosure page .

Where Is Istanbul

Built along both banks of the Bosphorus Strait in northwestern Turkey , Istanbul might not be the country’s capital, but it’s the largest city in Turkey. It’s also the largest city in the world to span two continents.

Throughout its long history, the city of Istanbul has always been a significant cultural, political and trade centre because of its strategic position. The oldest part of the city, today’s Sultanahmet area, sits on a peninsula where three seas meet. The Golden Horn Strait, the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus Strait.

What Makes Istanbul So Special To Us

Taking a trip to Istanbul can be a rather emotional experience for us Greeks. Constantinople – Istanbul’s former Greek name – was a city where a large Greek community flourished in the past. However, the vast majority of Istanbul’s Greek residents were uprooted and abruptly separated from their beloved hometown in the previous century.

Therefore, at every mention of Istanbul, a haunting aura of nostalgia makes Greeks turn their eyes towards the East and daydream of the City. For that’s what Greeks used to call Istanbul. The City, η Πόλη. Because, to their minds, it was the prettiest, the most important city of all. The one and only in their hearts.

According to one theory, that’s also where the city’s current name, Istanbul, comes from: Εις την Πόλιν (is tin Polin), which means towards the City. To learn more about the Greeks of Istanbul and how they used to live in harmony with their Turkish neighbours, A Touch of Spice is one of our all-time favourite films.

Travel Resources To Help You Plan The Best 5-Day Istanbul Itinerary

• Find the best deals for your flights to Istanbul here .
• Book your  airport transfer  to your hotel in advance with Welcome Pickups.
• Find the best deals for your accommodation in Istanbul .
• Book the best tours with GetYourGuide or Viator in Istanbul .
• Travel without worries.  Click here  to buy your travel insurance .
• Make your transactions in foreign currency  simple without visiting a bureau de change.  Order your Wise Card here!
• Stay connected with an eSIM card and enjoy a non-stop Internet connection during your trip to Istanbul.

The Ultimate 5 Days in Istanbul Itinerary

Day 1: istanbul basics.

Your 5-day Istanbul itinerary starts with an overview of the city’s two most legendary neighbourhoods. Beyoğlu is one of the most charming districts in Istanbul, formerly known as Pera, which is the Greek word for across. On the other hand, Eminönü is in essence the core of Istanbul Old City.

Taksim Square

There’s no better place to start your first of 5 days in Istanbul than this iconic square in Beyoğlu. Considered the heart of modern Istanbul and for good reason, Taksim Square is buzzing with life all day and night long. Home to several hotels and restaurants, the square is also a major transportation hub and a favourite meeting point for locals and visitors alike.

Istiklal Street

Next up is a stroll along the elegant Istiklal Avenue. Busy with thousands of people all day long, Istiklal is a pedestrianised street lined with magnificent buildings that house shops, restaurants, cafés, consulates and many more.

Along Istiklal Street, you can see the Galatasaray High School , Turkey’s oldest secondary school, as well as Çiçek Pasajı , a beautiful historic shopping arcade built in 1876. The highlight of the avenue, though, is the old-fashioned red tram that runs between Istiklal’s two ends. From Taksim Square in the north to the area around Galata Tower in the south and vice-versa.

If you have enough time, you can also make a small detour to visit the Pera Museum , which is set in a gorgeous building that housed the Bristol Hotel in the past.

While walking along Istiklal Street, it’s mandatory to grab some typically Turkish snacks – simit and açma – from the omnipresent food carts and street vendors along the avenue, as well as some divine baklava from Hafiz Mustafa .

When strolling along Istiklal Street, don’t hesitate to get lost in its maze of charming side streets until you stumble upon hidden spots, such as Nevizade Street with its quaint restaurants and pubs, one of the many spots where the heart of Istanbul nightlife beats.

Galata Tower

At the southern end of Istiklal Street, several downhill cobbled streets descend towards the Galata Tower area. No matter which one you choose, you’ll end up wandering around one quaint street after another. This area is full of souvenir and other shops where you can buy gifts for your loved ones back home. Soon you will be at the foot of the Galata Tower .

This 67-metre medieval stone tower was built by the Genoese who lived in Istanbul in 1348. Back in the day, it was the tallest building in Istanbul.

Nowadays, it’s home to cafés and restaurants. Most importantly, the tower features a viewing terrace with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city. However, the best time to go up there is sunset. Therefore, refrain from going up the tower and save this for your last day in Istanbul.

One of the best ways to appreciate the grandeur of Galata Tower and take in the area’s authentic Istanbulite vibe is to sit at a traditional coffee shop under the shadow of the tower and drink your first of many glasses of exquisite Turkish tea, paired with a Turkish delight – or three.

Galata Bridge

After your tea pit stop, it’s time to continue your walk further downhill towards the sea, via a set of some of the steepest streets in the city that will eventually lead you to the famous Galata Bridge on the Golden Horn Strait.

The Galata Bridge was completed quite recently, in 1994. It has vehicle and pedestrian lanes as well as tram tracks. On its first floor, closest to sea level that is, local restaurants and pubs line the bridge. The bridge connects the Beyoğlu area to the Eminönü district.

Once you step on Galata Bridge, the magic that is Istanbul unfolds before your very eyes. Iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace stand majestically over the waters of the Golden Horn Strait. Ferries come and go constantly with seagulls following them all along their short or longer trips.

All this and a lot more compose the image of a city whose beauty no artist’s brush could have painted in more enchanting colours.

Spice Bazaar

Once you cross the bridge, you are in the district of Eminönü. The first stop on your short walk on this side of the city should be the Egyptian or Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı). The beautiful covered market has always been and still is the go-to place for spices. That said, due to its popularity with tourists, the Spice Market is now also home to various other types of shops, such as patisseries, jewellery stores etc.

Grand Bazaar

If you liked the Spice Bazaar, you will love the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) , by far the most impressive of all Istanbul markets. Home to 61 streets and 4000 shops, the Grand Bazaar is where you’ll find the best souvenirs to bring back home. From a hand-painted water pipe to a colourful Turkish tea set to impressive ceramics, the Grand Bazaar has it all, plus several antique shops if you’re into vintage shopping.

That said, the Grand Bazaar doesn’t appeal to avid shoppers alone but to anyone who appreciates gorgeous architecture, authentic vibes and mingling with locals.

The Grand Bazaar is not just another market, but an iconic landmark in its own right. It’s a magnificent maze of covered streets, utterly picturesque cafés and mesmerising sounds and smells of the East. In other words, it is one of the top places to visit in Istanbul.

Visit the Grand Bazaar with a local and go shopping like a pro!

Hodjapasha Cultural Centre

The best way to spend your first evening in Istanbul is to attend a top-rated traditional Turkish performance. Housed in a beautiful 550-year-old hammam in a very central location, the Hodjapasha Cultural Centre offers two different shows, the Whirling Dervishes and the Rhythm Of The Dance.

More of a ritual than a show, the Whirling Dervishes experience is available every day at 7 AM. The 60-minute Whirling Dervishes performance at the Hodjapasha Cultural Centre follows the actual Sema ritual, which represents the spiritual journey of the soul towards God and back.

Although immensely interesting and impressive, this performance is in essence a spiritual ceremony. Therefore, don’t expect lively tunes and an entertaining ambience as not even applause is allowed during the Sema ritual.

Buy your tickets for the Whirling Dervishes show before they sell out.

On the other hand, if an hour of genuine entertainment is what you’re after, you should go for the Rhythm Of The Dance show. A group of amazing professional dancers present traditional dances from various parts of Turkey. The belly dance and Turkish drum (darbuka) solos stand out. Yet our personal favourite was the fascinating Tanoura dance.

Both the Whirling Dervishes and Rhythm Of The Dance shows tend to sell out fast. Therefore, make sure you book your tickets in advance.

Make a reservation for the Rhythm Of The Dance Show here.

Day 2: Essential Istanbul Sightseeing

Your second day on this Istanbul in 5 days itinerary includes the bulk of your sightseeing in Istanbul. Brace yourselves and start early because there’s a lot of magic ahead.

Hippodrome of Constantinople (Sultanahmet Square)

Sultanahmet Square is a great place to get your bearings and take a deep breath before delving into this remarkable city’s vast history.

Today’s Sultanahmet Square is where the Hippodrome of Constantinople used to be. This public area hosted horse races, chariot races, gladiatorial games, celebrations and official ceremonies throughout the centuries. A 16th-century Egyptian obelisk stands in the middle of the Hippodrome since the 4th century AD.

Hagia Sophia

Probably the most recognisable landmark in Istanbul is Hagia Sophia. Constructed in the Middle Ages, this sacred place hides the very soul of Istanbul within its walls and is the visual embodiment of the unique blend of cultures that is Istanbul.

Throughout its long history, Hagia Sophia has served as a major religious site for both Christians and Muslims. Originally built as an Orthodox Christian church, it then became a Catholic church before being turned into a mosque. All these changes are reflected on the church’s interior walls where writings from the Quran are hanging next to Virgin Mary icons.

In 1935, Hagia Sophia stopped being a religious site and opened as a museum. This way, the whole world would be able to step inside and marvel at the grandeur of this architectural and cultural masterpiece.

Sadly and quite unexpectedly though, the UNESCO-listed Hagia Sophia was reverted into a mosque in 2020. You can still visit Hagia Sophia as a tourist outside prayer times. However, we can’t tell for sure if the experience will be the same as it was when it was still a museum.

Make the most of your time in Hagia Sophia on a guided tour led by a local.

Blue Mosque

Right across the street from Hagia Sophia stands the Blue Mosque in all its glory. Its official name is Sultan Ahmed Mosque, after Ahmed I, the Sultan who commissioned its construction.

Built between 1609 and 1617, the Blue Mosque was probably the Sultan’s effort to create a monumental mosque that would surpass the splendour of Hagia Sophia. Successful or not, the Blue Mosque with its characteristic blue tiles did manage to become one of Istanbul’s icons and a staple of the city’s skyline.

Book this 1-hour tour of the Blue Mosque or splurge on this in-depth walking tour that explains the artistic value and religious symbolism of this iconic monument .

Basilica Cistern

Dating back to the 6th century, the underground Basilica Cistern is one of the most impressive places to visit in Istanbul in 5 days. Although not the only ancient cistern in Istanbul – the city numbers several hundred of them – it’s definitely the largest and most famous of all.

After descending a few steps, you’ll find yourselves in a forest of 336 columns, many of which bear the marks of their former use, as they were parts of ruined temples. Although for visitors’ safety the underground cistern is now limited to a very small amount of water, it’s still a very beautiful place to visit.

Get into the depths of the Basilica Cistern on a short but sweet tour guided by a local.

Topkapı Palace

The main residence of Ottoman Sultans from the 1400s to the 1800s, Topkapi Palace is one of the top Istanbul attractions. One of the world’s largest palaces that have been turned into museums, Topkapi Palace is home to gorgeous interior courtyards and elaborate halls and rooms. The most striking area, though, is the Harem where the Sultan’s several wives and family members lived.

Book your guided tour of the Topkapi Palace.

Alternatively, you can book a combined tour of Topkapi Palace and the nearby Istanbul Archaeological Museum.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan , the Suleymaniye Mosque is an amazing construction in its own right. The second largest mosque in Istanbul, the Suleymaniye Mosque is also one of the city’s best viewpoints as it boasts a prime location on the Third Hill of Istanbul.

Unlike other mosques, the Suleymaniye Mosque has a very bright interior. Among the things you shouldn’t miss during your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site are the tombs of Suleiman the Magnificent and his wife Hurrem Sultan .

Learn the secrets of this imposing structure on a guided tour.

Although these Istanbul attractions are in close proximity to one another, visiting all of them on your own might be overwhelming. That’s because there is a ton of history associated with each place. Therefore, we’d recommend visiting some or all of these places on guided tours. Several tour companies mix and match two or more of these major attractions on the same tour. Here are some of the best combinations that can save you valuable time: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour Topkapi, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Tour Hagia Sophia, Suleymaniye & Blue Mosque Tour

Fener & Balat

In the afternoon, you can explore two of the city’s most authentic neighbourhoods for a chance to get a glimpse of how life goes by for the real Istanbulites.

Fener and Balat are among the oldest neighbourhoods in Istanbul. They used to be populated by the city’s Greek, Jewish and Armenian communities. It’s safe to say that this less popular part of Istanbul is where the city acquired its unparalleled multicultural character.

Apart from wandering around the colourful streets of Fener and Balat, trying to imagine a day in the lives of all those ethnic groups that used to live side by side for centuries on end, these districts are home to several historical landmarks, too. The Greek Mary Blachernae Chruch and the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate are only a few of them.

The nearby Chora Church used to be yet another important landmark until 2020 when the museum was turned back into a mosque, following Hagia Sophia’s fate. Unlike Hagia Sophia though, Chora Church remains closed to visitors until further notice.

For a better understanding of Fener and Balat and a thorough account of how these areas formed part of the rich history of Istanbul, you should consider visiting these neighbourhoods on a guided tour. We highly recommend this 3-hour Fener and Balat walking tour, which we joined ourselves a few years ago. We have nothing but praise for the knowledgeable guide who showed us around the charms of this part of Istanbul.

You can read about all the walking tours we joined in Istanbul here .

Day 3: Princes Islands & Kadıköy

On your third day on this 5 days in Istanbul itinerary, we recommend taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city to head to the peacefulness of the Princes Islands, before getting to know one of the most authentic Istanbul neighbourhoods.

Princes Islands

A day at the sea is an excellent idea for a day trip from Istanbul. The Princes Islands are an archipelago of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara. Only four of them are inhabited and open to visitors: Kınalıada, Burgazada, Heybeliada and Büyükada .

No cars or motorbikes are allowed on any of the islands. Therefore, their quiet streets and clean air come in huge contrast to Istanbul’s buzzing roads and smoggy sky.

It goes without saying that there’s no point trying to fit all four islands in a single day trip. It’s best to choose one island and spend a relaxing day there, taking in the views and easy-going vibes. In our opinion, you should go for Buyukada, the largest and most interesting island among the four.

In Buyukada, you’ll feel as though time has stood still. With its wooden mansions and tranquil streets, the island is the perfect getaway for long peaceful strolls and genuine mingling with locals in a setting of bittersweet neglect.

You can buy round-trip ferry tickets to Buyukada here. If you want to learn more about the Princes Islands, click here to read more about the day trip we enjoyed there a few years back .

On your way back to Istanbul from the Princes Islands, get off the ferry at Kadiköy on the Asian side of the city. Although not on the radar of tourists, Kadiköy is one of the most fascinating neighbourhoods in Istanbul to enjoy a walk, a lively district where you can feel the local rhythm of life and taste delicious Turkish food.

Speaking of good food, you can finish your third of five days in Istanbul with a journey through the exceptional tastes and flavours of one of the world’s most delectable cuisines. For an unparalleled experience, splurge on a private food tour in Kadikoy , one of the best places in Istanbul to sample the city’s diverse and mouthwatering dishes.

Day 4: Romantic Istanbul

Apart from all its other charms, Istanbul is one of the most romantic cities you’ve ever seen. That’s mainly because it’s a city built on the sea. Therefore, it makes sense your romantic day in Istanbul involves a lot of ferry rides and seascapes.

The Golden Horn

Start your fourth of 5 days in Istanbul with a ferry ride along the Golden Horn, from the Karaköy Station in Beyoğlu to the final stop at Eyüp. For about 40 minutes, the ferry will be zigzagging from one shore to the other as you sip one Turkish tea after another on this romantic cruise of sorts.

Eyüp is one of the lesser-known parts of Istanbul. At least for tourists. A former Christianity stronghold, the area became an important site for Muslims after the fall of Constantinople in 1453. So much so that in 1581 Christians were no longer allowed to live there.

Nowadays, the Eyüp Sultan Mosque represents one of the Islamic world’s most sacred sites while the entire district attracts more conservative Muslim residents. The mosque and the adjacent mausoleum and tombs are little architectural masterpieces. Moreover, the cobbled streets around the mosque are full of people and souvenir shops.

Pierre Loti Hill

Pierre Loti Hill is one of the most romantic places to visit in Istanbul. The hill took its name from the French novelist and keen Istanbul lover Pierre Loti.

You can get to the top of the hill either by car or cable car. There is also the option of walking through the enormous Eyüp Cemetery . However, we would advise against doing so without the company of a local friend or professional tour guide. For visitors, the cable car is the best way to climb to the top of Pierre Loti Hill.

The only drawback of the cable car is that there are always rather long queues at the entrance. Sometimes, at the exit as well. The reason for this is that there are only two sets of two cabins, each of which has a maximum capacity of just eight people.

That said, once inside the cabin, it takes less than three minutes to get to the top or vice versa. The views from the cable car to the Golden Horn and the Eyüp Cemetery are breathtaking.

Once at the top, there is a nice café with spectacular views of the Golden Horn and the historical centre of Istanbul in the distance. Probably the best time to visit is sunset but this is when the hill gets more crowded, too. Therefore, try to be there earlier.

If you prefer, you can tour the Golden Horn, Eyup and Pierre Loti Hill in the company of a knowledgeable guide instead.

When you’re done taking in the views, head back to downtown Istanbul in the same way: jumping on the ferry. This time, though, take the ferry to Üsküdar, on the Asian side of Istanbul. While on board the ferry, get a glimpse of the beautiful Maiden’s Tower .

Although you’re only here to catch a ferry to Ortaköy, your next romantic stop, take a step back and look around, breathing in Üsküdar’s ambience. In a way that it’s not easy to put your finger on, Üsküdar feels different from the neighbourhoods of the European side. Also, the views of the shore across the Bosphorus Strait are amazing.

Ortaköy 

On board the ferry to Ortaköy, the view of the Bosphorus Bridge is breathtaking. The same goes for the dreamy silhouette of the Ortaköy Mosque itself, the most iconic landmark in the somewhat fancy neighbourhood of Ortaköy.

From an architectural point of view, the mosque is gorgeous. But what makes it truly unique is its position, right there at the waterfront.

Apart from the mosque, Ortaköy is also famous for being the best place in Istanbul to try kumpir, which is jacket potato the Turkish way. Kumpir is Istanbul street food at its best. You will be surprised at how many food stalls in Ortaköy serve just that. Don’t miss it!

With a full stomach and a happy heart, linger in this area until it’s dark to marvel at the illuminated Ortaköy Mosque as you enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many waterfront bars nearby. If that’s not the perfect way to end a romantic day in Istanbul, we don’t know what is.

Day 5: Istanbul Highlights

For your last day in Istanbul, we recommend a series of experiences that are quintessentially Istanbulite, truly enchanting moments that will make you vow to go back to this city of wonders before too long.

Turkish Bath Experience

One of the top things to do in Istanbul is to indulge in an original Turkish bath session. The city is dotted with hammams for all tastes. From luxury establishments housed in historic imperial baths to no-frills hammams that locals still frequent, Istanbul has a wide array of Turkish bath experiences to offer.

If it’s your first time in a Turkish bath though, we’d recommend opting for one of Istanbul’s top-rated hammams, such as Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami , a historic hammam that dates back to the 16th century, designed by no other than Mimar Sinan.

Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami was where we enjoyed our first-ever hammam. Since a Turkish bath is an utterly relaxing albeit very intimate experience, you’d want to choose an establishment with people who go out of their way to make you feel at home and relish those precious moments.

Book your Turkish Bath experience at Kilic Ali Pasa Hamami to enter a world of utter relaxation and rejuvenation.

If you’re feeling nervous about going to the hammam for the first time, we put together a guide to all the things you need to know before booking your first Turkish bath session.

Read our comprehensive guide on how to enjoy your Turkish bath experience here.

Bosphorus Cruise

No trip to Istanbul is complete without a chance to see the city from the water on a boat tour or cruise along the enchanting Bosphorus Strait. Rejuvenated from your Turkish bath experience, now’s the best time to enjoy this one-of-a-kind cruise.

Ranging from simple ferry rides to super luxurious boat trips, Bosphorus cruise options are endless. The public ferries of Şehir Hatları  offer both a full and a shorter Bosphorus tour departing from Eminönü. However, for a special experience, we’d recommend booking one of the Bosphorus cruises we handpicked for you:

• Istanbul: Sunset or Daytime Yacht Tour w/AudioGuide & Snacks
• Istanbul: Bosphorus Cruise with Stopover on the Asian Side

For an even more memorable experience, you can tweak this Istanbul itinerary a bit to enjoy one of the sunset or early evening Bosphorus cruises we recommend below:

• Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
• Istanbul: Sunset Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus

The Bosphorus Strait is the natural border between Europe and Asia. It’s also the only passage between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. This is why it has always been extremely important for commercial and military reasons alike. For travellers, the Bosphorus Strait is one of the most spectacular ways to take in the beauty of Istanbul.

During a Bosphorus cruise, you can admire iconic landmarks such as the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Ortaköy Mosque and the Bosphorus Bridge. Further north, you have the chance to see the beautiful coloured houses in Arnavutköy as well as the stylish neighbourhood of Bebek .

One of the most impressive sights along the way is Rumelihisari , Istanbul’s imposing medieval fortress with its dreamy waterfront promenade.

After passing below the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge , the ferry moves closer to the Asian shore of the Bosphorus Strait to start its southbound course.

The Asian side is lined with exquisite wooden mansions dating back to the 19th century. This type of residence, which is yet another symbol of Istanbul, is called a yalı . There are yalı on both shores of the Bosphorus Strait but the Asian side features the prettiest among them.

Places To Visit Along The Bosphorus Strait If You Have More Time

• Dolmabahce Palace: An impressive building with a great history, it is the largest palace in Turkey, boasting a spectacular location right on the Bosphorus waterfront. Inside the palace, you can visit many lavishly decorated rooms. Among them, is the very room where Kemal Atatürk died in 1938. Get fast-track entry tickets to Dolmabahçe Palace here.

• Beylerbeyi Palace: Built in the 1860s as a summer residence for the sultan and his family, Beylerbeyi Palace is a fine example of Ottoman Empire architecture and decoration. Small in size and with beautiful gardens overlooking the sea, it is well worth a visit.

Sunset at The Galata Tower

Finish your 5 days in Istanbul itinerary right where you started it, in Beyoglu, and more specifically, at the Galata Tower. This time, climb up the viewing terrace to take in the utter beauty of Istanbul painted in the colours of the golden hour. By now, you must be able to recognise several of the Istanbul landmarks you visited in the previous days and this is why we think that you should save this experience for last.

Grab your skip-the-line tickets to the Galata Tower here. Trust us, you’ll definitely want to skip THIS line.

If you’re anything like us, your sunset climb up the Galata Tower will leave you completely spellbound, your lips uttering vows of eternal love to the city. Your final stroll should be along one of the most picturesque streets of Istanbul. Serdar-ı Ekrem Street might just be the perfect place to kiss this magical city goodnight and promise to be back soon.

How Many Days in Istanbul

We could just say the more the better and leave it at that. However, we’re here to help you rather than simply state the obvious. We believe that spending 5 days in Istanbul is the absolute minimum. However, not everyone can afford a long vacation, so here are a couple of tips on what to include and what to skip if you only have a short time to spend in Istanbul.

4-Day Istanbul Itinerary

If you only have 4 days in Istanbul, just skip the Princes Islands day trip and follow the rest of this 5-day itinerary for Istanbul.

3-Day Istanbul Itinerary

If you’re planning to see Istanbul in 3 days, you could probably do most of the things included in this 5-day Istanbul itinerary – minus the day trip, of course – but in a pretty rushed way, which is not ideal if you ask us.

Depending on how slow you want to take it or not, consider skipping any (or all) of the Istanbul activities and main attractions mentioned on Day 4 of this Istanbul itinerary. You can catch up with all this during your second time in Istanbul. Believe us, once Istanbul gets you under its spell, there will definitely be a second time.

2 Days in Istanbul

We don’t think that 2 days in Istanbul are enough to even scratch the surface of a city this size and with so much to see and do. However, if an opportunity comes up for you to visit even for 2 days, don’t miss it. In that case, join this comprehensive Best of The City full day tour on your first day and use your second day to just wander around and take in the unfathomable beauty of this city.

Istanbul Travel Guide

How to get to istanbul.

Turkish Airlines flies you to Istanbul from several destinations around the world. There are two airports in Istanbul. The new Istanbul Airport , which opened its gates to the public in 2019, and the Sabiha Gokcen Airport .

Check out flights to Istanbul here.

Both airports are accessible by public transport. However, for a hassle-free arrival (or departure), we’d recommend booking a private airport transfer in advance . Before doing so though, check with your hotel if they’re offering an airport shuttle service as many hotels in Istanbul do.

Where To Stay in Istanbul

Istanbul is a huge, often chaotic, city. Therefore, deciding on the best places to stay in Istanbul might get a bit overwhelming. Here’s a very brief overview of the best areas to stay in Istanbul to help you decide where to stay in Istanbul.

• Where to stay in Istanbul for first-time visitors: Galata area or near Taksim Square
• Where to stay in Istanbul for sightseeing: Old Town near Sultanahmet Square
• Where to stay in Istanbul for couples: Cihangir
• Where to stay in Istanbul with family: Besiktas
• Where to stay in Istanbul for nightlife: Karakoy or Kadikoy
• Where to stay in Istanbul for shopping: Eminonu or Pera near Istiklal Street
• Where to stay in Istanbul as a digital nomad: Kadikoy

No matter where you decide to stay in Istanbul, make sure you opt for a hotel that takes pride in its Turkish breakfast. Turkey is renowned for offering a delicious breakfast experience that you shouldn’t miss out on. For more information about the best places to stay in Istanbul, read our full guide on where to stay in Istanbul .

How To Get Around Istanbul

Although claimed to be built on seven hills, like Rome , Athens , Barcelona , Bergamo , Lisbon, Madrid , Prague , Bucharest and so many others (wow, this list is endless!), Istanbul is a very walkable city. However, its size and the number of uphill streets and locations it has render the use of public transport necessary at times.

Using Public Transport in Istanbul

Public transport in Istanbul is very easy to figure out and use. There are buses, trams, metro lines, ferries and two funiculars. All these combined can take you literally everywhere in the city.

Our least favourite means of transport in Istanbul is the metro. That’s because travelling underground means you’re missing out on the spectacular views at every turn Istanbul offers.

For the needs of this 5-day Istanbul itinerary, you’ll be mostly using the city’s trams and the life-saving funiculars. Why life-saving? Because, thanks to the Tünel (F2) and the Taksim–Kabataş (F1) funicular lines that provide easy access to the upper part of the city, you’ll never have to climb any of Istanbul’s notoriously uphill streets.

Regarding trams, the Kabataş–Bağcılar (T1) line is the most useful. There are also two historic tram lines in Istanbul. On the European side, the T2 Line runs along the entire length of Istiklal Street . On the Asian side, the T3 Line does a circular route from Kadikoy to Moda and back .

The ferries are also a fantastic way to commute in Istanbul, especially between the European and the Asian sides of the city. Last but not least, buses in Istanbul are very efficient and quite straightforward. In most cases, they include something super recognisable in their displayed direction (e.g. Taksim Square or something similar). Therefore, it’s very unlikely that you’ll get lost.

Istanbulkart

The Istanbulkart is a contactless public transport smart card. It is valid for all of the above means of transport plus a couple more, such as the Eyüp cable car. Apart from offering discounts compared to single-ride fares, the Istanbulkart offers you the ease of hopping on and off public transportation in Istanbul without worrying about buying separate tickets all the time.

You can buy an Istanbulkart at any metro station or even a newsstand in the city and load it with the desired amount of Turkish lira. Then you can top up your Istanbulkart at the same places or automatic vending machines located at many metro, tram or bus stations.

The Istanbulkart is not personal. This means that it can be used by more than one person. If so, the discount made at certain transits will only be applied to one passenger.

Istanbul Weather & Best Time To Visit Istanbul

Winter in Istanbul can be really, really cold. Especially on board the ferries or in the evening. Istanbul is a dreamy city and you should be able to enjoy sitting outdoors as much as possible. This is why it would be better to visit in late spring or autumn. Try to avoid visiting Istanbul during the summer months to steer clear of the crowds and scorching heat the peak season brings.

Should I Get a Turkey SIM card?

Free roaming across Europe is one of the best things that has happened to the continent in the last decades. However, Turkey wasn’t invited to the party. If your data providers back home charge outrageous amounts of money for just a handful of MBs, check out this Unlimited 4G Pocket Wifi which can connect up to 10 mobile devices.

Alternatively, get an eSIM card from Airalo and pick one of their packages for a seamless Internet connection.

Is Istanbul Safe?

Apart from being beautiful, Istanbul is an incredibly friendly city where locals will amaze you with their warmth and kindness. That said, like anywhere else in the world, you need to use your common sense while in Istanbul.

Crowded places with many tourists tend to attract pickpockets while dark alleys should be avoided, especially by women travelling alone. On the contrary, popular places like Istiklal Street, Taksim and other squares are perfectly safe any time of the day or night – minus the pickpocket risk, of course.

Our Top 3 Reasons To Visit Istanbul

From what you’ve read so far it must be pretty clear that Istanbul is a remarkably enchanting city that has a special place in our hearts. There are certain little details about Istanbul that we love immensely that couldn’t find their place in the detailed 5-day Istanbul itinerary you just read. However, we felt the need to share with you the three things we love about Istanbul the most.

Served in small glasses rather than cups, Turkish tea has nothing to do with the fancy Afternoon Tea sessions you might have experienced in London – which we also adore. Tea is so much more than just a drink in Istanbul. It’s a mentality in its own right.

If you love cats, Istanbul is your heaven. You’ll be touched by the degree to which locals love cats. There are food and water bowls for them everywhere on the city’s streets. In fact, it seems that cats in Istanbul are literally treated as royalty.

What we love most about the city, though, are the Istanbulites themselves. They are among the most hospitable people we have met. The fact that they are even warmer towards us once they find out we are Greek is indescribably moving.

So much for the eternal-hate-between-Greeks-and-Turks stereotype. It only exists in narrow-minded people’s imaginations. This is why travel is the best antidote to stereotypes and intolerance. A window to the real, beautiful world that leaves no room for harmful misconceptions.

Now that you know what to do in Istanbul in 5 days, here’s one more thing to keep in mind. Istanbul is not just another city to visit. It is an entire world. A world of magic where all opposites converge to form an enchanting blend of cultures and peoples.

Istanbul is more than just the beautiful images of the Bosphorus and the Hagia Sophia. Istanbul is filled with the seductive smells of the East as they reach out to touch the West. Istanbul is carried along in the exciting sounds of a busy city that never sleeps but also in the melodious voice of the muezzin who brings the skies to life at each call to prayer.

Istanbul is all of this and so much more. Istanbul is unique. The one and only. The City.

WORDS & EDITING: Maria IMAGES: Katerina

Disclosure: To facilitate us in publishing this 5 days in Istanbul itinerary, Hodjapasha Cultural Centre and Walks in Istanbul offered us press tickets to their shows and tours respectively. Yet, as always, all opinions remain our own.

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Amazing locations in Istanbul, I truly enjoy all of it.

Thanks for your comment!

I appreciate you illustrating the best five-day itinerary for Istanbul.

i liked your post, soon i will be in istanbul and you blog was so amazing and helpful

Hi there! Thanks for your kind comment! We hope you enjoy your trip to Istanbul.

Thanks for this useful post. I want to do a cruise on the Bosphorus, there are so many choices, not sure which one to take but I found one, Bosphorus Sunset Cruise top-rated on trip advisor. Do you have any suggestions on that? I want to give it a try on this one www. bosphorustour. com Thanks for your feedback.

Hi Alex, thanks for your comment! You must definitely enjoy a sunset cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, you’re going to love it! We can’t give feedback on this specific cruise but you can find many top-rated sunset cruises by clicking on our affiliate link here !

Pingback: Where to eat in Istanbul, Turkey | The Winged Fork

Istanbul is a dream place for me, I hope one day to see it. Hagia Sophia, the Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar are on my list and I am sure that one day I will see and smell those wonderful places.

Hi dear Ferny! We are in love with Istanbul because it is indeed a dreamy destination. So special, so different from any other city we’ve been to. We really hope that you travel to Istanbul soon. You are going to love it!

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Istanbul Itinerary: 3, 4, 5, or 7 Day Options

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

This website uses affiliate links. For more information, click here .

Istanbul is a buzzing city with so much to see and do. As the once ancient capital of the Roman Empire, Constantinople, and the border between two continents, Europe and Asia, it’s a melting pot of history and diverse culture that cannot be found anywhere else on this planet.

While Istanbul is often visited as a stopover destination, being the largest transit hub in the world, anyone who just passes through this energetic city is really missing out.

From ancient landmarks to relaxing Turkish baths, serene nature, and world-class museums, there are tons of exciting attractions you could add to your Istanbul itinerary.

Whether you plan to stay for 3, 4, 5, or 7 days, these Istanbul itineraries will take you around some of the best sites in the city and tell you the best order in which to see them.

Planning a trip to Istanbul last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Istanbul:

• Airport Shuttle From Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gocken International Airport (SAW) (Super affordable!)

Here are our recommended tours in Istanbul:

• Luxury Bosphorus Cruise At Sunset (A must-do In Istanbul)
• Whirling Dervishes Show (Unique experience!)
• Historical Turkish Bath Experience
• Istanbul Food And Culture Tour

Here are our recommended places to stay in Istanbul:

• Magnuara Palace Hotel (Gorgeous hotel in the historic centre!)
• Pera Palace Hotel
• Cheers Hostel (Budget hostel near the Blue Mosque!)

How many days is sufficient in Istanbul?

This is the age-old question we get asked the most. The amount of time you spend in Istanbul is usually dictated by how much time you have to spare. 

You could easily spend a week here and not get bored. We even spent two weeks there and didn’t run out of things to do.

We would say the optimal amount of time to spend in Istanbul is between three and five days. You could see all the highlights in three days, but if you have more time on your side, allow an extra couple of days for relaxation and to soak in the culture of the city.

After all, you don’t want to spend your time rushing from place to place and not take in the atmosphere. If you have time on your side, take it slow, don’t rush, and spend some time wandering the streets and take it all in.

📚 Read More: A Complete Istanbul, Cappadocia and Pamukkale Itinerary!

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 3 Days

Most people visiting Istanbul only have a few days before they embark on a greater Turkey itinerary. After all, 3 days is the optimal amount of time to spend in the city.

Below is an Istanbul itinerary for 3 days, which takes you to all the top attractions and iconic landmarks in the city.

Day 1: Sultanahmet

Our itinerary begins in the enchanting city of Istanbul. This once capital of the Roman and Ottoman Empire, named then as Constantinople, is brimming with history and culture. It’s also the only city in the world to span two continents; Europe and Asia.

On the first day of your visit to Istanbul, you’re going to want to explore the neighborhood of Sultanahmet . This is where you’ll find the most iconic landmarks in the city, including the Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern.

This day will do a lot of walking but it’s all within the same area, so you won’t need to travel far today, you’re going to see exactly why Istanbul is a city worth visiting .

Stop 1: The Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is the most beautiful work of architecture in Istanbul, so it makes sense to visit this attraction first. It was built between 1609- 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I. It became famous for its hand-painted blue tiles that you can see inside.

The mosque features more than 200 stained glass windows, as well as a stunning carved marble mihrab that’s worth checking out. It’s also the resting place of Sultan Ahmed I.

The Blue Mosque has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 and is one of Turkey’s most famous sites.

Stop 2: Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is just across the park from the Blue Mosque and is another one of the most important mosques in Turkey. It was built in 537 by the Roman Emperor Justinian. It was originally used as a cathedral for Constantinople, where it remained the largest Christian church in the Eastern Roman Empire for over 1000 years ago.

After Constantinople was seized by the Ottoman Empire, it was converted into a mosque. It was a museum for a short time between 1935-2000 but was converted back into a mosque. It has some of the most stunning architecture, mosaics, and artistic coverings of all the mosques in the city.

Stop 3: Topkapi Palace

Around the corner from the Hagia Sophie is the Topkapi Palace. The palace was the former home of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Today, it is a large museum, showcasing artifacts from the Ottoman era. Not all rooms are open to the public, but the most beautiful ones are. The Ottoman Imperial Harem and the treasury are the main reasons to visit this palace in Istanbul .

The Topkapi Palace was also declared a UNESCO site in 1985 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Stop 4: Basilica Cistern

During the Roman Empire, the Romans built several cisterns under the city as a water filtration system for the city’s palaces. The largest and best-preserved cistern in the city is the Basilica Cistern.

It is just 150 meters away from the Hagia Sophia, so it makes sense to see this historical landmark on the same day.

Stop 5: Istanbul Archeological Museums

The Istanbul Archeological Museums is a collection of three museums in the Sultanahmet district. They are made up of the Archeology Museum, The Ancient Orient Artifacts Museum, and the Tile Museum (Tile Kiosk).

They contain historic relics dating back to the early Ottoman period after it captured Constantinople from the Roman Empire.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Alexander Sarcophagus, which is the tomb of Alexander the Great, found in the Archeology Museum, and the Egyptian Grave with two coffins in the Ancient Orient Artifacts museum and the geometric tiles of the Tile Kiosk, one of the oldest buildings in the city.

Stop 6: Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

Another one of the major landmarks in Istanbul is the Grand Bazaar. It is the largest and oldest covered market in the world, with 61 streets and over 4,000 shops. It began operating in 1455 after the Ottomans captured Constantinople.

The vibrant Grand Bazaar is the best place to pick up Turkish souvenirs , from Turkish delights, Turkish lamps, rugs, towels, and clothes.

Around the corner from Grand Bazaar is the Spice Bazaar. This is another souk market where you can shop for various teas and spices. The spices are said to help with certain medical conditions, from diabetes control to weight loss, and mood enhancers.

Stop 6: Evening Turkish Hamam

After all this walking around, you’re going to want to relax a little. We recommend finishing off the day in a Turkish Hamam, which is similar to a Roman Bath. It’s not just a public bathing space, but a spa where you can get massages and beauty treatments.

Located next to the Hagia Sophia is the Hurrem Sultan Hamam, which was built in the 16th century. It’s a little pricey, but if you’re going to enjoy a Turkish bath , you might as well go to an authentic one!

Day 2: Istanbul: Taksim

On the second day, we’re going to cross the Galata Bridge and explore the Kabataş neighborhood. This is still part of Europe, but also features many iconic attractions that should not be missed.

Stop 1: Galata Bridge

We’ll begin at Galata Bridge, a 19th-century bridge that crosses Istanbul’s Golden Horn channel. The bridge is famous because of the fishermen who cast their lines here, attracting hundreds of seagulls.

The bridge has two parts, the top part is where the cars cross the bridge and also where you’ll find the fishermen, and along the bottom part you’ll find many restaurants serving fresh seafood meals.

Stop 2: Galata Tower

Next, we’ll visit the iconic Galata Tower. By now you have probably noticed the tower in the skyline, given that it is the city’s watch tower.

It was built as a part of the Walls of Galata in 1348 by Roman Empire. The Galata Tower has had a tumultuous past, having caught fire in 1794 and 1831. It was also badly damaged in a storm in 1875.

The tower was renovated in the 1960s to look like the original but using concrete instead of wood. You can climb to the top of the tower and witness 360-degree panoramic views of the city. There is also a museum and exhibition hall in the tower.

Stop 3: Istiklal Street

Istiklal Street is the most famous street in Istanbul and is where you’ll find a blend of historic and modern. It was historically known as Grand Avenue of Pera, and is a pedestrian street made famous for its red tram that rides from one end to the other.

There are many high-street brands setting up shops here in the old buildings that were once apartments for the Romans. It’s a great place to pick up some street food or find a traditional Turkish restaurant down one of the side streets.

If you’re into nightlife, you’ll find vibrant bars in this area. There are also many things to do on Istiklal Street , including visiting some of the top museums in the city.

Stop 4: Pera Museum

The Pera Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It was established in 2005 and is home to a large selection of iconic works from renowned Turkish artists such as Osman Hamdi Bey, Cihat Burak, and Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu, as well as European artists such as Jean-Léon Gérôme and Jean-Baptiste van Mour.

The museum is a cutting-edge cultural space spanning over 5 floors and provides a fantastic space where history and art collide.

Pera has served as a hub for creative expression since it first opened its doors. Amongst its many fascinating collections, there is an art gallery hosting diverse works from across Turkey’s dynamic cultural heritage. Notable pieces include Orientalist paintings and rare photography pieces that explore the late 18th century through to modern-day times.

Stop 5: Bosphorus Cruise

If your legs are a little tired from all this walking, then a Bosphorus cruise is a great way to enjoy an afternoon or early evening.

The cruise takes you through Istanbul’s Golden Horn and out into the Bosphorus. It gives you a unique perspective of the city from the water, and it’s also the best way to see the palaces in Istanbul. Many of the palaces were built next to the water, and their beautiful decoration and architecture are best seen from the water.

You will see boats lined up on the waterfront in Eminönü, and there are plenty of cruises to choose from. They are all pretty much the same, but you do need to book your ticket in advance.

You can either head to the harbor early in the morning and book your ticket, or you can book your ticket online.

Day 3: The Asian Side

On the third day in Istanbul, you’re going to explore the Asian side. We’ll be visiting the largest mosque in Istanbul, the hip and vibrant area of Moda, and tasting delicious Istanbul street food .

Stop 1: Çamlıca Mosque

The first stop is Çamlıca Mosque, located at the top of Çamlıca Hill. To get here, you must first take the metro to Üsküdar and then change to the metro to Kısıklı. From here, you simply walk up the hill.

The Camlica Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul and measures at 72 m (236 ft). The six minarets measure even higher to 107.1 m (351 ft). This stunning mosque is a sprawling complex large enough to house 63,000 worshipers at one time.

There’s also an art gallery, library, and conference hall. It was designed by two female architects, Bahar Mızrak and Hayriye Gül Totu, and was said to have cost $110 million USD to make.

Stop 2: Kadikoy

After spending time admiring the mosque, head over to the area of Kadikoy, one of the biggest attractions in Istanbul’s Anatolian side . Here you’ll find bustling markets and fishermen on the waterfront. This is the perfect place to sample some street food. We highly recommend the balık ekmek (fish sandwich).

Stop 3: Moda

After wandering the neighborhood of Kadikoy, head further south to Moda. This is a hipster neighborhood with street art, boutique stores, cool coffee shops, and a relaxing park.

Stop 4: Whirling Dervishes Show

If you went for an afternoon Bosphorus cruise, then you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy a whirling dervishes show in the evening. This is a traditional Turkish dance where dancers look as though they are floating across the floor.

As well as being a dance, it’s an active meditation exercise, which originated from the Sufi tribes in the 13th century. This is one of our favorite things to do in Istanbul at night .

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 4 Days

If you have an extra day to spend, you might want to spend it doing something more relaxing. Not many people know this, but Istanbul is surrounded by serene nature, and you don’t have to go far to find it.

In our Istanbul 4 day itinerary, we would suggest following the itinerary for 3 days, and on the fourth day, visit the Princes Islands…

Day 4: Princes Islands

On the fourth day, you’ll need to allow a full day to explore the Princes Islands , or Adalar as they are referred to in Turkish. There are nine islands in total, but only four are inhabited. Each island was once used as an exile home for the rich, famous and powerful, including members of the royal family (hence the name, Princes Islands).

There are no cars on the islands and they can only be explored on foot or by bike. You will notice several examples of luxurious, stunning architecture and 19th-century mansions as you explore each of the islands.

To get to these unique islands in Turkey , you must take a ferry from Kabatas or Kadikoy. The ferry stops at Kınalıada, Burgazadası, Heybeliada, and finally Büyükada, or “Big Island” as it’s often referred to.

It takes 75 minutes to reach the last island, Buyukada, and ferries operate every hour – this gives you an hour to explore each island, so you need to plan your trip accordingly.

You may wish to pick two out of the four islands we mention below if you want a more leisurely day.

Be sure to check out the ferry times here .

Stop 1: Kınalıada, Princes Islands

The first stop is Kınalıada, the smallest island in the Princes Island archipelago. It’s the nearest island to mainland Istanbul and its history dates back to the ancient Greeks.

The name Kinaliada means “Henna Island” in Turkish, and it is so named because of the red-color land you see here. This is made by iron and copper deposits which were once mined here.

The first settlers on the island were the Greeks, who used the island as a place of exile from the Byzantine rulers. The most famous exile to live here was Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, who lived at the Monastery of the Transfiguration on Hristo Peak.

It won’t take you long to explore the small village on the island. Make sure to check out the former Greek Orthodox monastery, the Monastery of Christ, and wander along the small streets to check out the unique architecture. The old fire station and school are particularly beautiful.

After an hour, make your way back to the ferry pier to go on to the next island.

Stop 2: Burgazadası, Princes Islands

Burgazada, or Burgaz Adası, is the third largest in the group and was also an exile settlement for the Greeks. It was once called Antigoni, after Antigonus I Monophthalmus, father of one of the successors of Alexander the Great.

Antigoni built a fort on the island, which you can still see today. The island is small and has one single hill, so you can easily see all the main attractions in an hour.

Be sure to check out the Spanudis Mansion, which was the home to the famous Turkish short-story writer Sait Faik Abasıyanık. Then there is The Church of Iohannes Prodromos which was built in 1899. It was built on the site that was once a prison for St Methodius the Confessor, who was exiled here.

There are also a few monasteries to see, the Monastery of Hagios Georgios Garipi which was a refuge for White Russians fleeing the Russian Revolution, and the Monastery of the Transfiguration, which dates back to the Byzantine era.

Stop 3: Heybeliada, Princes Islands

The second largest island is Heybeliada, which was once used by the Turkish Navy. Each year, the island holds a few small open-air concerts in the summer, which attracts many visitors to the island.

Make sure to check out the Naval High School, which was founded in 1773 and has stunning architecture. It’s also the home of the only remaining Byzantine church on the island,  Kamariotissa , as well as the last church to be built before the conquest of Constantinople.

The grounds are where you’ll find the grave of Edward Barton, who was the second English Ambassador for Elizabeth I of England, who was sent to Constantinople and spent his last days on Heybeliada trying to escape the plague.

As with all the other islands, Heybeliada also has a monastery, named Hagios Georgios tou Kremnou, which was built in the 16th century. There are also the ruins of the Hagios Spyridon monastery which was built in the 19th century.

You can also visit the house of the second President of Turkey, Mavromatakis Köşkü, which is a museum, as well as several other beautiful 19th century mansions.

Stop 4: Büyükada, Princes Islands

The last island is the biggest island, Buyukada. If you only have time for one, make sure this is it. You can see many of the island’s notable landmarks, including the Merkez Eczanesi, a pharmacy from 1870, and the ruins of a villa where Trotsky lived during 1929-1933 on Hamlaci Street 4.

Since this island is much bigger than the rest, we recommend you rent a bike and cycle around the island, taking in the quietness and beauty of the island. See the Greek Orthodox Church, St. George Church, which sits on the highest point of the island with amazing views of the city.

Other notable landmarks on the island are the former Greek Orphanage, which was the largest wooden house in Europe.

You can also find a beach for swimming and relaxing on, as well as a huge green park. You could easily spend more than an hour here. Be sure to stay for sunset and try one of the top-rated restaurants on the waterfront.

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 5 Days

For those blessed with five full days in the city, you might be wanting to see more off-the-beaten-path places in Istanbul. On our fifth day, we are going to explore the Fener district.

This is home to Balat, the Jewish district of Istanbul. Here you get to see the diverse cultures of Istanbul and see a unique side of the city in its architecture, history, and general way of life.

If you’re looking for a 5 day Istanbul itinerary, we suggest following the itinerary above and adding the following stops on your fifth day…

Day 5: Fener District

The Fener District is where you’ll find the remnants of Istanbul’s Jewish Population. In the late 15th century, Sultan Bayezid II offered citizenship to the Jews fleeing the Inquisition in Spain and Africa, and most of the immigrants ended up here.

The Fener District is part of the  UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Areas of Istanbul . Fener has become a melting pot of culture, with ethnic minorities from places like Armenia, Bulgaria, and more.

The neighborhood also has a number of charming coffee shops and restaurants, as well as art galleries and boutique stores.

Stop 1: Balat District

Balat is the most famous neighborhood in Fener. It’s known for its colorful, narrow wooden houses and cobbled streets. Kiremit Caddesi (Kiremit Street), is the most famous place to find these buildings.

These pastel-colored buildings are some of the  most beautiful buildings in Istanbul . But this is not the only reason to visit Balat .

Nestled among the historic buildings and winding streets, are unique, cozy cafes, some of which are an artist’s playground, such as İncir Ağacı Kahvesi which is known for its umbrella installation and colorful huts where you can sip your coffee in.

You can also find many antique shops and vintage shops, if you enjoy thrift shopping. Be sure to check out the Phanar Greek Orthodox College, which you won’t miss as it’s a striking red building ontop of the hill.

Stop 2: Kariye Mosque

The Kariye Mosque, or The Chora Church as it’s also known, is one of the most historically significant mosques in Istanbul. It was built as a Greek Orthodox Church in the 4th century during the reign of Constantine the Great, at the time when the walls of Constantinople were being built.

It was part of a monastery complex outside the walls of the city and served as an Orthodox church until it was converted to a mosque in the 15th century by Ottoman Turks.

What makes this church unique is that it still has stunning mosaics depicting biblical stories and figures, some of which date back to the 14th century. It also hosts a number of incredible frescoes that showcase Ottoman artistry and engineering prowess.

The Kariye Mosque has been under renovation since 2005 and there has been no end date announced at present. We will update this guide as soon as we know of a re-opening date, and this is one site in Istanbul not to be missed.

Stop 3: The Walls of Constantinople

Have you ever wondered if the walls of Constantinople still stand? The answer is yes, but only in some areas. You can see the remains of the walls of Constantinople on Hoca Çakır Cd, this is where they are the most well-preserved.

The walls were built in the 4th century and were used as a defense against oncoming invasions, and they were withheld for many centuries before the great Mahmet II finally seized the city in 1453.

You can walk along the walls in some areas as well, which offer an incredible view of the Marmara Sea and the Golden Horn.

The Best Istanbul Itinerary for 7 Days

For those who have a full week at their disposal, you have time to truly experience the diversity and uniqueness of the city, but now you might be after a bit of adventure.

So on our sixth and seventh day, we plan to take you to the theme parks and on a day trip outside the city.

If you’re looking for a 7 day Istanbul itinerary, follow the itineraries above and add the following stops to day 6 and 7…

Day 6: Theme Park Day

Istanbul is also home to several exciting theme parks. If you are travelling with kids, you might want to have a theme park day!

Stop 1: Vialand Theme Park

If you only have time for one park, it should be Vialand. There is so much to see and do here, you should spend a full day here.

Vialand Theme Park has something for everyone – from its rollercoaster rides and other thrilling attractions such as Parkour land, mall, and Disney-inspired palace, to its interactive theaters and kid-friendly carnival games.

It opened in 2013 and was the first shopping, entertainment, and living complex in the world that combines a Theme Park and a shopping mall.

The park is spread over a huge 600,000 meters squared and features the world’s 4th biggest rollercoaster, the Nefeskesen, which accelerates to 110 kilometers in just 3 seconds. Don’t miss the “Justice Tower”, which descends from 50 meters, as well as the 7-D movie theatre.

If you’re looking for thrills and entertainment, Vialand has something for even the pickiest traveler!

Stop 2: LEGOLAND

If you have time for another theme park, then we recommend LEGOLAND. You can get a taxi here from Vialand and be here within less than 15 minutes.

Legoland is the perfect place for both grown-ups and children looking for an unforgettable day out. There’s so much to explore – from massive models, three incredible rides, and interactive activities, to 10 LEgo-build areas and Lego workshops.

Open since 2015, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey within a few years. It not only offers lots of fun to kids but adults can also enjoy themselves playing with large building sets made from genuine Lego bricks.

No matter how old you are, you’ll be sure to find the perfect way to have some incredible fun at Legoland.

Day 7: Day Trip to the City of Troy (Çanakkale)

By now you must be feeling you’ve seen a lot of Istanbul and would like to explore some other parts of Turkey. Located four hours away by car is the ancient city of Canakkale, which is most famous for being where the ancient city of Troy once was.

Stop 1: Troy National Park

Perhaps the most famous thing about Çanakkale is the nearby ancient ruins of Troy, located in the Historic Troy National Park, which can be visited by guided tours or independently.

This legendary city served as an important historical battleground between Greeks and Trojans in the 8th century BC. Visitors can explore the remains of Troy or take a tour through its open-air museum featuring archaeological finds from Hellenistic and Roman eras. 

According to archaeologists, the City of Troy is only one of nine cities that was built on top of each other, so the findings you see here are that of several civilizations. The oldest city is said to have dated back to 3000 BC.

As well as being historical, it’s also an area of outstanding natural beauty, so take a moment to look out for several species of bird and wildlife that make this park their home.

Stop 2: Cimenlik Castle

The city of Çanakkale is also worth stopping off at, since it has some notable historical attractions, such as the Cimenlik Castle.

It was built in 1462 by Mehmet the Conqueror to protect the Ottoman Empire in the Dardanelles. Just right across the Dardanelles, visitors will also find Kilitbahir Castle, another fortress built around the same time.

Both of these castles are now museums and offer spectacular sea views.

Stop 3: Troy Horse

Many have heard the legend of the Fall of Troy , which has been passed down through Greek mythology for centuries. The story was also featured in Homer’s  Iliad .

If you don’t know the story, the Trojan War  went on for years, in which the Greeks tried to break through the walls of the City of Troy but were unable to breach them.

To trick the Romans on the other side, they built a wooden trojan horse and gave it to them as a gift. Little did the Romans know, the Greeks had waited inside the horse until nightfall, and then attacked the Romans as they slept. And thus the war was won.

To remember the story, head to the waterfront of Canakkale, where you can see the huge steel and fiberglass statue of the horse that was used in the 2004 movie “Troy.”

Extend to 10 Days Istanbul Itinerary

If you have fallen in love with the city and want to spend more time here, you could easily extend it to 10 or more days. 

If you’re looking for some ideas for how to spend 10 days, we recommend you fill your time taking some day trips to the cities near Istanbul . 

Bursa, Kumköy, or Şile are three cities we would recommend adding to your Istanbul itinerary. If you plan your visit right, you could even spend time at the beach in Şile if beaches are your thing.

There are also some beaches closer to Istanbul, which would be the perfect place to spend your days in the summer. 

Aside from that, I would spend time wandering the city, shopping for souvenirs, stopping off at traditional cafes , and gorging on street food. 

Explore some of the parks in Istanbul or check out the museums . There is so much to see and do, we know you’ll find something fun to fill in your time on a 10 day Istanbul trip.

Getting Around The City

Istanbul is a very walkable city, as long as you have some comfortable shoes on. We have purposely organized the stops in our itineraries to allow you to be able to walk from place to place, without the need for public transportation.

However, sometimes taking public transportation is necessary, especially if you plan to visit the theme parks or head over to the Fener district.

We have written a complete guide on public transportation in Istanbul for those who are visiting for the first time. Read about how to get around Istanbul here .

Tips for Visiting Istanbul

To help you have the best trip to Istanbul, here are a few words of advice:

• Go slow and don’t try to pack it all in. I know these itineraries are jam-packed, but you’re going to exhaust yourself trying to see every museum and mosque. Take time to just wander the streets and soak in the atmosphere as well.
• Get the Istanbul E-Pass, this is a tourist pass that gives you free entrance to many of the city’s top attractions. You can save up to 70% by using this card.
• Download Offline Google Maps or MapsMe, so you don’t need to rely on data.
• Pick up a Turkish sim card, but not from the airport. Turkcell is our preferred operator, but you can read more about it here.
• Dress modestly . This is a Muslim country and even though it’s hot, respectful attire should be worn at all time. Leave the hot pants at home, and bring light clothing that covers your knees and shoulders.
• Bring a headscarf if you’re a woman. You will need to wear one when entering the mosques.
• Take out cash, as many places don’t accept credit cards.

Final Thoughts on Istanbul Itinerary

So there you have it, this is how you can spend your days in Istanbul, and as you can see, there is a LOT to see and do.

No matter how many days you plan to spend in Istanbul, we know you will have a great trip.

Do you have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

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Road is Calling

Travel Guide

Traveling to Istanbul Soon & Need a Bit of Guidance?

What to Know Before Visiting Istanbul

Istanbul, although not being a capital, is one of the most famous and popular cities in Turkey . It is considered a cultural and commercial center of the country which is also a very special place with an endless list of things to do. Besides an amazing heritage of art, culture, history, and architecture Istanbul is also a culinary hub.

You can visit Istanbul on its own or when on a big trip around Turkey . 

But my main advice to you is not to be in a hurry. One or two days here is never enough. I recommend planning to spend at least five full days in Istanbul (if you can) and explore the city at a slower pace. During this time you will be able to visit all significant tourist attractions, see vibrant life on Asian and European sides, get acquainted with Turkish cuisine, and even venture to some lesser-known spots.

But if you don’t have that much time, I have plenty of resources to help you also plan a shorter trip, just browse through all the posts on this Istanbul travel blog page!

Istanbul Travel Tips & Istanbul Itineraries

Planning your trip to istanbul.

Istanbul Airport Transfer: How to Get From Istanbul Airports to the City Center

50+ Practical Travel Tips For Istanbul to Make the Most of Your Trip

Istanbul Museum Pass Review & Tips – Is It Worth the Money?

4 Days in Istanbul Itinerary – Alternative Route for First-Time Visitors

Is Istanbul Expensive in 2024? Guide to Prices in Istanbul & How Much You Need

1 Day in Istanbul Itinerary – 2 Routes Depending on the Airport Where You Land

Antalya or Istanbul for a Holiday – How to Decide Which One to Choose?

Travel resources for istanbul.

Check if you need a visa when traveling to Turkey (most passports get a visa on arrival, but you may need to arrange it in advance) Learn More

Travel Insurance

Do not leave home without insurance & take care of it before entering the country (as policy does not start immediately after purchase) Learn More

This is the website I use most of the time to rent a car in Turkey (see more of my tips on car hire below) Find a Car

Simcard for the phone to stay connected on your trip & have internet anywhere in the country Check Offers

Local Tours

I never miss a chance to go on a free tour in Turkey. And I often use this company for booking private tours

Istanbul Pocket Guide

Get more insider tips, honest reviews & budget hacks with this compact handbook!

Best of Istanbul

Different neighborhoods in istanbul in detail, guides to istanbul neighborhoods.

Walking Istiklal Avenue – Guide to the Most Famous Istanbul Street

Exploring Taksim – Best Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Things to Do

Guide to Sultanahmet – Historic Heart & Old Town of Istanbul

Balat & Fener – The Most Two Colorful Neighborhoods in Istanbul

Guide to Nisantasi: Istanbul’s Most Posh Neighborhood With Cool Things to Do

Cihangir Neighborhood: Life & Things to Do in Istanbul’s Artistic Hub

Karakoy Neighborhood: Why Not to Miss It & What to Do

Exploring Kadikoy – Best Activities, Nightlife & Sample Itinerary

Guide to Üsküdar – The Most Traditional District on Asian Side

Visiting Arnavutköy Fishing Neighborhood – True Gem on the Bosphorus

Best Areas, Hotels, Resorts & Unique Accommodations in Istanbul

Where to stay in istanbul.

Best Areas in Istanbul: What to Expect From Istanbul Neighborhoods & Districts

Where NOT to Stay in Istanbul – 9 Dangerous Istanbul Neighborhoods to Avoid

16 Cheap Apartments & Airbnbs in Istanbul From $50 a Night

13 Unique Places to Stay in Istanbul – Historic Mansions, Ottoman Houses, Palaces & More

Foodie’s guides to istanbul, where to eat & drink in istanbul.

What & Where to Eat in Istanbul: 29 Amazing Restaurants, Cafes and Terraces

In my Istanbul restaurant guide, I’ll show you exactly where to eat in Istanbul and what traditional Turkish foods to try!

Istanbul’s Best Activities & Must-Visit Places

Things to do in istanbul.

The Best Istanbul Sightseeing Ideas For Anyone Who Visits For the First Time

41 Best Places to Visit in Istanbul: Tips For Every Taste & Budget

Top 12 Things You Must Do in Istanbul to Fall in Love With This City

12 Lovely Spots to Watch Sunset in Istanbul in Any Season

Romantic Places in Istanbul for Couples – How to Spend Quality Time Together

Explore beyond istanbul guides – more cities, beautiful islands, beaches, nature spots & more, places to visit near istanbul.

Burgaz Island Near Istanbul: The Most Romantic Princes’ Island Among All

7 Cool Weekend Trips From Istanbul That You Didn’t Know About

8 Best Beach Destinations in Turkey From Istanbul for a Quick Trip

15 Places Near Istanbul That You’ll Love Visiting – Cities, Villages, Beaches & Nature Spots

Istanbul to Izmir Drive – Unique Road Trip Itinerary to See Western Türkiye

Discovering Istanbul During Different Times of the Year

Istanbul by the season.

Istanbul in Winter – All Important Things to Know Before You Go (!)

Istanbul in winter can be a hit or miss due to its unpredictable weather. See my guide with lots of tips to know how to enjoy it!

Visiting Istanbul in Spring – Best Things to Do Each Month + My Travel Tips

Visiting Istanbul in spring can be one of your most memorable trips! See this guide about the weather, things to do, what to pack & more!

More Than Travel…

Life in istanbul.

Life in Istanbul For Foreigners – What It’s Like & Is Istanbul a Good Place to Live?

Everything about life in Istanbul for foreigners and expats – with details on quality of life, cost of living, best areas to live & whether Istanbul is a nice city where to be!

• Things to Do Guide
• Top 10 Attractions
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• Egyptian Spice Market
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• Dining Master Guide
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• Nightlife Master Guide
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• Bosphorus Cruises
• Turkish Bath – Hammam
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• Best of Bosphorus Cruises
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• Tips for Booking
• Hagia Sophia
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• Galata Tower
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• Whirling Dervishes Show
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• Istanbul Tourist Pass
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Welcome to Istanbeautiful, your practical city and medi guide to Istanbul, Turkey…

Find things to do in Istanbul, days out, attractions and sightseeing in Istanbul, what’s on, Istanbul festivals and events, tours, restaurants and hotels in Istanbul. Plan your trip to Istanbul with useful traveler information.

We are a team and fellows of Istanbul locals, expats and world travelers. We aim to provide the very up-to-date and quality information and advice for your trip to our city Istanbul. We try to do our best to keep our website up-to-date with all the tourist information. Our motto is  “Your Go-See-Do-Heal Advisor” . We try to do our best to provide you the best advice on the city’s top sights and sounds, with the very best tourist , medical and health services from the trusted companies and providers.

Things to Do in Istanbul (2024 Essential Attractions Insider Guide)

Places to see in istanbul (2024 essential sights insider guide), istanbul dining guide 2024: what to eat best places + advice, istanbul shopping guide 2024: what to buy best areas to shop, nightlife in istanbul: 2024 guide with hot spots, districts, clubs.

Augusta, Antonina, Nova Roma, Byzantion, Byzantium, Constantinople and finally Istanbul…  These exciting names reminds the mysterious and enchanting past of the city. Istanbul can be considered as the combination of the old and modern city, as well as Islamic and Mediterranean mixture of cultures in a captivating atmosphere. There are only few cities in the world that can be so delightful to experience and enjoy as Istanbul.

Istanbul offers an unforgettable experience for its travelers, with its colorful daily city life and dynamic nightlife. The beautiful silhouette of the city combines historical sites and monuments such as Roman aqueducts, Byzantine churches, Venetian towers, Ottoman palaces from the Byzantine, Ottoman and Turkish periods. And the skyline covers monumental minarets with skyscrapers and plazas. And especially the  Historical Peninsula  and the  Bosphorus  will make you deeply fall in love with the city…

Most Popular Now in Istanbul

33 Things to do this spring in Istanbul in 2024: Spring Adventures

15 must do day trips from istanbul in 2024, best cappadocia day tours from istanbul (2024 prices with tips), top best istanbul city walking tours – insider guide + faqs, whirling dervishes show istanbul (2024 sema guide with tickets), bosphorus cruise istanbul: top 10 best boat tours in 2024.

Top Istanbul Discount Cards & Passes

Istanbul Tourist Pass® Review: Is It Worth It? Insider Tips

Istanbul welcome card (why buy how to’s fares & insider tips), istanbul e-pass (worth it how to’s fares, insider tips).

Must Do & See

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque Istanbul: Ayasofya 2024 Tickets

Topkapi palace museum (2024 tickets with guru advice guide), basilica cistern museum istanbul: 2024 skip the line tickets + tips, dolmabahce palace museum istanbul (2024 tickets, skip the lines), bosphorus dinner cruise istanbul: 2024 best dinner cruises.

First-time Visitors

One Day in Istanbul: Local Expert Help with No Regrets

3 days in istanbul: an ideal itinerary with local expert help, where to stay in istanbul for a first time visit an insider’s guide 2024, istanbul on a budget: top 13 money saving tips on your trip, 15 best ways to experience istanbul like a local, 101 free things to do in istanbul + insider advice, neighborhoods areas & districts.

See more of Istanbul with our guides to Istanbul’s popular districts, neighborhoods and areas. Experience and explore Istanbul just like a local, with hidden gems, favorite haunts, and top tips from our expert local ( TR ) guides.

Explore Sultanahmet (2024 Guide with Top Things to Do & See)

Explore taksim (guide with top things to do & see + advice), explore galata, karakoy & tophane (top things to do & see + advice), explore fener & balat (top things to do, sights, how to get), explore besiktas (guide with top things to do & see + advice).

Food & Drink

Top Best Rooftop Restaurants & Bars in Istanbul (Insider Guide)

Top 15 best restaurants in istanbul (insider guide advice), top best bars in istanbul (insider guide advice), michelin starred restaurants in istanbul to experience.

Hotels in Istanbul

Top Rated Best Hotels in Sultanahmet, Istanbul: 2024 Advice

Yotel istanbul airport (ist) hotel (where, fares, booking info).

Practical Istanbul

Are you visiting Istanbul for the first time? You can find out all the top tips and recommendations to arrange your first trip to Istanbul easy, good planned, fun and safe. You can read our guides here for Istanbul’s top attractions, sights, travel tips, and more things to do.

HAVAIST New Istanbul Airport Shuttles/Buses (Routes, Price + Advice)

How much does it cost to visit istanbul (average daily costs), how to get istanbulkart how to obtain-load credit, istanbul city card, istanbul public ferries (timetables, prices, best ferry rides + advice), new istanbul airport (ist) metro line m11: stations, advice.

Medical Tourism

Use our guides to find out the medical and health tourism opportunities in Istanbul including hair transplant, cosmetic and aesthetic operations, rhinoplasty, Botox & dermal fillers, bariatric surgery, laser eye surgery, full medical check-ups, dental implants and many more.

Hair Transplant in Turkey, Istanbul: 2024 Best Clinics Guide + FAQs

Rhinoplasty in turkey, istanbul: top 10 best surgeons + faqs, dental implants in turkey, istanbul: best dental clinics 2024, prices, latest articles areas & districts, maintaining your hair after transplant (guidelines + tips), all about hair loss (alopecia) – causes, treatments & prevention, best hair transplant in dubai, uae for 2024: top clinics + cost, hair transplant in kosovo: top best clinics in 2024 + cost, hair transplant in albania: top best clinics in 2024 + cost, best hair transplant in mexico for 2024: top clinics + cost.

More Istanbul Trip Ideas for you…

Planning your Istanbul trip? Whether you’re looking for things to do in Istanbul such as attractions, sights, festivals and events, key traveler information to make your Istanbul visit run smoothly, you’ll find everything you need for your Istanbul travel on istanbeautiful.com. Make sure to discover Istanbul’s diverse neighborhoods, from tranquil suburbs to central areas full of shopping, entertainment and dining options, as well as property options in the city.

Discover the best day trips from Istanbul or try one of the best Istanbul tours. If you’re here as a family, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Istanbul with kids. Whether you’re looking for the best weekend breaks in Istanbul or planning a longer holiday in Istanbul, you can be sure you’ll find all the information you need.

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Planning a trip to Istanbul ? If you want to know more about the impressive history of the city, how to get around , what to visit , which are the typical dishes served in Turkey, and many other first-hand tips and tricks that will help you plan your holiday. You'll find answers to all these questions and more in the guide to Istanbul.

Istanbul Travel Guide

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Why Visit Istanbul?

Istanbul is one of the world's most visited cities and, having been the capital of three empires (the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman ), it's a city that no traveler should miss. Fall in love with the history of former Constantinople and its natural wonders, the Golden Horn and the Bosphoru s.

Chaotic and serene at the same time, with more than 15 million inhabitants , Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey. And each and every visitor is left astounded by a city on the crossroads of two continents: too Eastern to be European and too Western to be Asian.

A journey into the past itself, touring Istanbul, you'll find yourself in a historic and lively city between two seas , The Sea of Marmara and The Black Sea; between two continents , Europe and Asia, and between two worlds, the t raditional and the modern .

Visit the Hagia Sophia  and the Blue Mosque , sail the Bosphorus in a boat, browse the Grand Bazaar , and see the shadow of the splendor of the Ottoman Empire in the Topkapi Palace  is something every world traveler should do once.

Looking for Accommodation in Istanbul?

The earlier you reserve, the better discounts you can find. Discover the range of hotels in Istanbul with discounts of up to 75%.

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top activities

Istanbul Bosphorus Boat Cruise On this cruise along the majestic Bosphorus Strait , you'll drift along Istanbul's main waterway and see the contrasts between the European & Asian sides .

Hagia Sophia Skip-The-Line Tour This  skip-the-line tour of Hagia Sophia is ideal for discovering all the details of one of Istanbul's star monuments. A must to learn about the city's history!

Bosphorus and Black Sea Cruise Cruise along the Bosphorus and see landmarks including Galata Tower and Bosphorus Bridge. When you get to the Black Sea, take a swim and enjoy lunch on board.

A cruise along the Bosphorus is a must for every trip to Istanbul! We'll sail around the Golden Horn , the oldest quarter in this Turkish city .

Turkish Coffee Workshop Uncover the historic ritual of preparing traditional Turkish coffee in this exciting coffee workshop in Istanbul , and learn the secrets of this iconic drink.

Istanbul Tour: Bosphorus Cruise, Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Join us in Istanbul for a  Bosphorus cruise  and to visit the renowned Blue Mosque , marvel at the timeless beauty of Hagia Sophia , & tour the Spice Bazaar.

Istanbul Free Tour Admire the exterior architecture of opulent mosques and discover the amazing history of Istanbul with this guided tour. Plus, it's free!

Troy Day Trip On this  day trip to Troy from Istanbul , we'll uncover the secrets of this  ancient city which mixes reality with mythology . You'll love it!

Bosphorus Night Cruise + Dinner & Show Enjoy breathtaking views of Istanbul from the Bosphorus as the sun sets, enjoying an exquisite dinner and traditional Turkish music and dancing .

Basilica Cistern Guided Tour On this tour of the  Basilica Cistern , we'll visit this  authentic gem in Istanbul and see how its columns store water. Welcome to the  Submerged Palace !

Topkapi Palace Ticket With this skip-the-line ticket to the Topkapi Palace, you'll discover all about one of the highlights of Istanbul . An absolute must-see!

Istanbul E-pass Can't decide which monuments to see in Istanbul? Get the Istanbul E-pass and enjoy free entry to more than 60 attractions for 2, 3, 5, or 7 days!

Dolmabahçe Palace Guided Tour Enjoy a guided tour of the Dolmabahçe Palace during your stay in Istanbul. Explore one of the most opulent European-style palaces along the Bosphorus ,

Whirling Dervish Show The Sufi whirling, also known as Sama, is one of Turkey's best-known and most inspiring ceremonies. This 800-year old tradition is a personal and mystic voyage.

Blue Mosque Guided Tour With this guided visit to the Blue Mosque , we'll get to know its secrets and sacred spaces throughout Istanbul . Join us for a deep dive into the city's history !

Cistern Basilica & Blue Mosque Tour + Hagia Sophia or Topkapi Palace On this tour of the Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern , we'll discover the history of two of the most iconic monuments in Istanbul . You'll love it!

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the First World War in Turkey with this essential day trip to the Gallipoli battlefields .

Istanbul Tourist Bus The Istanbul sightseeing bus is the best way to discover this magnificent city. Hop on and off at any of the stops to explore at your own pace.

Cappadocia 4-Day Tour On this 4-day tour to Cappadocia from Istanbul we'll pass through Ankara, Saratli, Uçhisar and the Goreme Valley , the jewels of Turkey .

Rhythm of the Dance Show Delve into Turkish culture through its folk music and dance , enjoying a show of traditional dances, belly dancing and live music. A truly memorable experience!

7 Day Turkey Classics Tour Discover Classical Turkey on a seven-day trip from Istanbul and explore its fascinating historic cities: Ankara, Pamukkale, Ephesus , and more.

​ Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Suleymaniye Mosque . On this tour of the mosques of Istanbul , we'll visit some of its  most important religious landmarks .

Cappadocia, Pamukkale and Ephesus 6-Day Trip Set off on a 6-day trip from Istanbul to Ankara  and visit other historical cities including Saratli, Uçhisar, Göreme, Konya, Pamukkale and Ephesus .

Private Tour of Istanbul Explore the vibrant city of Istanbul on a private tour and choose which landmarks, museums and neighborhoods you want to visit.

Bosphorus Sunset Luxury Yacht Cruise Enjoy the romantic landscapes of the   Istanbul sunset with this luxury cruise down the Bosphorus Strait. Unforgettable views await!

Istanbul Mosques & Palaces Tour On this tour of the mosques and palaces of Istanbul , we'll discover Ottoman architecture masterpieces and see emblematic buildings such as the Hagia Sophia!

In this pub crawl in Istanbul , we'll experience a wild night in the capital of Turkey as we let ourselves be swept away by the beat of the music.

Ticket to the Hagia Sophia Museum If you're in Istanbul, you can't miss the Hagia Sophia History Museum . Immerse yourself in a world of architectural and cultural marvels .

Cappadocia One Day Trip by Plane This one-day tour is ideal if you wish to discover the best areas of the historical region of Cappadocia if you are only in Istanbul for a few days.

Princes' Islands Full-Day Tour Immerse yourself in the history of Istanbul and the Ottoman dynasty on a full-day cruise to two of the Princes’ Islands: Kinaliada and Buyukada .

On this guided bus tour of Istanbul, we'll visit the city's most important places and enter the Topkapi Palace . Don't miss out!

Istanbul Asian Side Tour + Beylerbeyi Palace Cross the Bosphorus Bridge and explore the easternmost part of Istanbul with us on this tour of the city's Asian side. Let's go!

Private Yacht Cruise on the Bosphorus On this private yacht cruise on the Bosphorus Strait , you'll be able to admire the beauty of Istanbul and see its iconic monuments while sunbathing in style!

Turkish Lamp Workshop If you're in Istanbul , don't miss out on this Turkish lamp-making workshop ! Learn how to craft  one of Turkey's most popular traditional handicrafts .

On this food tour of Istanbul , we'll sample delicious traditional Turkish dishes as we explore this breathtaking city. You'll adore this Turkish cuisine.

Turkish Bath + Massage At DoubleTree by Hilton Indulge in a lavish experience with a Turkish bath and   bubble massage  at the exclusive DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul Spa .

Hierapolis & Pamukkale Day Trip Visit the holiday destination for the Empire's nobles with this Hierapolis & Pamukkale Day Trip. You'll also stroll through the cotton castle of Pamukkale.

Bursa Excursion Do you know what the first capital of the Ottoman Empire was ? We'll learn about its firey history on this trip to Bursa  from Istanbul!

Tour of the Galata District In this tour of Galata , we'll discover this district in the European part of Istanbul, which was separated from ancient Constantinople by the Golden Horn.

On this tour to Sapanca Lake and Masukiye, we'll get away from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul to enjoy nature and do a variety of cool activities!

Belly Dance Show + Dinner Wondering what to do in Istanbul? Feel the magic of the sensual belly dance and enjoy a Turkish folk performance with this spectacle, including a complete dinne

Golden Horn Boat Trip + Tour of Fanar On this tour, we'll visit the Greek quarter of Fanar , take the cable car up to Pierre Loti Hill and take a boat trip on the Golden Horn .

2-Day Trip to Cappadocia by Plane On this  2-day trip to Cappadocia ,   you'll fly from Istanbul to one of  Turkey's most famous sites ,   which you will no doubt absolutely adore!

Istanbul Segway Tour Enjoy a fun ride on this segway tour through Istanbul while visiting the city's biggest attractions, like Topkapi Palace ,  Süleymaniye Mosque , and Hagia Sophia !

Princes' Islands Ferry Sail the waters of the  Sea of Marmara on this ferry to   the Princes' Islands . In just one day, discover this  beautiful archipelago from Istanbul .

Mustafapaşa, Sobessos + Soğanli Valley Tour On this excursion to Mustafapaşa, Sobessos & Soğanli Valley, you'll travel back in time to discover Roman and Greek ruins and rock-hewn monasteries .

Istanbul Airport Shuttle Bus to Taksim & Aksaray Are you travelling to Istanbul ? With this  bus service from Istanbul Airport to Taksim or Aksaray , you'll get to your destination quickly and conveniently!

Beylerbeyi Palace & Eyup District Tour Discover the Asian side of Istanbul on this half-day tour. Cross the Bosphorus Bridge and visit the beautiful Beylerbeyi Palace , followed by a tour of Eyup.

Immerse yourself in Turkish culture and experience a Turkish bath in Istanbul ! Unwind and relax at the Cagaloglu Hammam , a lavish spa in the city center .

Your Istanbul guide

Our Istanbul guide has been created by travellers like you , to help you when planning your trip, and making the most of your time while saving money. The information and data here were updated in February 2024.

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Home » Middle East » Turkey » Istanbul

The BEST Istanbul Itinerary in Existence (2024 • UPDATED)

Whilst Templars are no longer charging around decapitating non-believers, and other people have stopped invading too…

…Istanbul remains VERY LARGE.

Attempting to take on these bustling streets, cut-throughs and markets is a noble task (or one for google), and it is highly likely you end up like a secondary character from a racist French ’50s comic ( Ed : lost and inappropriately dressed? Terrible writing, terrible…).

Which is of course why you need my brilliant 3-day Istanbul Itinerary ! Not only will it provide you with the best that this city has to offer, but it is stuffed with inside knowledge and top tips. So while you chow down Turkish delight like Brucey from Mathilda, I will make sure the next attraction is just a fingers length away…

…Let’s jump in!

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A Little bit About this 3-Day Istanbul Itinerary

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Heading for a little Backpack through Turkey ? Want to take down the immensely historic ex-capital of Istanbul?

Then you are exactly where you should be! This guide is packed with the best places to visit in Istanbul , as well as a ton of tips to make sure your trip goes super smoothly. And it’s much less expensive than booking onto a guided tour…

My 3-day Istanbul Itinerary is going to shoot you through the Turkish almost-capital ( damn you Ankara), taking you on a journey that is more full-on than the city life here. Don’t worry if you fancy changing my itinerary, it’s down to you to have a great time after all.

Travelling through Istanbul is a must-do in Turkey, and I’m gonna lay out times, costs, and tips to help you get through this incredible couple of days happier than Donald Trump in a bubble bath.

3-Day Istanbul Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Sultanahmet Square | The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum | The Blue Mosque | The Basilica Cistern | The Hagia Sophia | Topkapi Palace | Istanbul Archaeological Museum
• Day 2: Grand Bazaar | Beyazit Square | Mosque of Süleyman the Magnificent | Egyptian Bazaar | Rüstem Pasa Mosque | Bosphorus Cruise
• Day 3: Taksim Square | Dolmabahçe Palace | Galata Tower | Istanbul Evening Food Tour

Istanbul straddles both Europe and Asia and, with a population of around 15 million, is one of the largest cities in the world! Most Turkish itineraries involve a stop at Istanbul and the city has a large hospitality industry to cater to your every need! That said, Engish is not very widely spoken outside of the main tourist hubs.

The 39 districts all have their own unique selling points but one of the best places to stay in Istanbul  is Sultanahmet , the tourist HQ. If you want something more alternative, you’ll probably find it in trendy Karaköy .

Sultanahmet is the oldest part of Istanbul and remains the city’s heart and soul. You’ll find some of the most iconic attractions on any Turkey itinerary in this area, such as the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia! It’s an incredibly atmospheric area, with cobbled alleyways and proximity to the waters running through the city. A few of the best hostels in Istanbul can be found here.

Karaköy, on the other hand, is more hipster than historical. It is hands-down the coolest district in Istanbul, a place where traditional bakeries coexist with sophisticated cafes! It’s near enough to Old Town but it also has its own fair share of attractions: from hamams to ornate mosques, Karaköy will keep you busy!

Best Hostel in Istanbul – Agora Guesthouse & Hostel

With a central location, stunning sea views and stylish dorms, it’s hard to find fault with Agora Guesthouse & Hostel! Dorms have lockers and impeccable cleanliness, while still managing to feel cozy. The hostel also offers homemade Turkish breakfasts which are served by helpful staff. Defintely one of the best hostels in Turkey .

Best Istanbul Airbnb: Masterpiece above Marmara Sea

Do you ever wish to escape the constant disappointment of existence? Well this is the closest you’re going to get, with unreal seaside views and outdoor terrace, and room for 6 guests. Spacious and comfortable beds, a great living room, and access to massages and the mall make this a veritable heaven for the modern man/woman. Discounts are available for longer stays too! Other Istanbul Airbnbs don’t even come close…

Best Budget Hotel in Istanbul – Istanbul Kaya Royal Hotel

This budget pick just pips out some of the other cheap options in Istanbul. With breakfast included out on the terrace, the hotel features both an onsite restaurant and bar. If the staff were demons from the seventh circle, this would still be a good hotel, but they’re not, so it’s even better! Comfortable rooms equipped with flat screen TVs, free toiletries and private bathrooms. It has an awesome location too!

Best Luxury Hotel in Istanbul – Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet

Just 10 minutes from the Blue Mosque, you’ll find another architectural masterpiece: the Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet! The interior is just as breathtaking, with furnishings that fuse the best of modern comfort and Ottoman luxury. The rooms are spacious, with marble bathrooms and mosaic paneling. There’s also an in-house restaurant and gym. What more could you want?

Let’s churn up the Bosphorus straight as we plough through this day-by-day Istanbul Itinerary. There is a lot to see, so get ready!

Sultanahmet Square | The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum | The Blue Mosque | The Basilica Cistern | The Hagia Sophia | Topkapi Palace | Istanbul Archaeological Museum

We’re starting your Istanbul itinerary with some of the most iconic places to visit in Istanbul! All of these places are located roughly in the same area, and you should be able to walk between them. It is a looong day though, so take as many breaks as you need!

8:30 am – Sultanahmet Square

Time to grab some breakfast around the beautiful Sultanahmet Square!

With the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia bookending it, Sultanahmet Square may seem like just a means to a glorious end but it’s actually so much more than that!

The square is named after the builder of the Blue Mosque, Sultan Ahmet I, but the use of the area for public gatherings dates back to the Byzantine Empire when it was a hippodrome , or a sports arena. The section of the Obelisk of Thutmose III  that you see today originates in this era, while the towering Walled Obelisk dates from the 10th century!

Much of the square is beautiful parkland, where you can see tulips blooming during spring, but it remains a lively center of the city. You’ll find plenty of souvenir stores as it’s frequented by tourists looking to start their Istanbul walking tour, just like you!

• Cost – Free
• How long should I stay here? Around 1 hour. Chill out and grab some breakfast. Mentally check-in.
• Getting there – Sultanahmet is your closest tram stop, and then it’s a short walk through Mehmet Akif Ersoy Park!

9:30 am – The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum

Located in a spectacular palace, the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is home to an even more magnificent collection of artefacts! Not everyone gets around to it on their vacation in Istanbul but the museum really is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul!

The crown jewel in the museum’s collection is the Carpet Section. You’ll find hand-woven Usak Anatolian carpets hanging alongside rare Seljuk carpets. There are also Iranian and Caucasian carpets on display.

Another standout collection is that of calligraphy. The Korans and books are beautifully written, some with pictures, in styles from across the Ottoman Empire and through the ages! You’ll also get up close with the sultans’ signatures.

In the section of Wooden Works, you’ll find valuable Anatolian woodwork from the 9th and 10th centuries! Artifacts from the Ottoman period pay tribute to the skilled techniques used to inlay wood with precious metals and stones.

The large Stone Art Collection boasts an array of dazzling, yet simple items. Gravestones stand beside ceramics, while there’s a detailed exhibition on tilework. The selection of glasswork on display dates from the 9th century!

In the glittering Metal Section, be prepared for samples from the Great Seljuk Empire and the Ottoman Empire. Gilded doorknockers, candelabra decorated with constellations, dirhams, and ewers are some of the splendid items on show!

• Cost – $4, or free (and guided tour) with the Istanbul tourist pass
• How long should I stay here? 1 to 2 hours. There is a lot to see, but don’t get bogged down!
• Getting there – Just a quick stroll from Sultanahmet square/ the Sultanahmet tram stop.

11:30 am – The Blue Mosque

Almost all Turkey travel itineraries include a visit to the Blue Mosque and for very good reason! Your first sight of the mosque’s domes and minarets (and the resulting feeling of awe) is a travel experience that you can never forget!

The Sultan Ahmet Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque due to the use of blue tiling throughout, was commissioned by the eponymous Ottoman sultan to boost national morale after the empire suffered defeat by the Persians. Work started in 1609 and the mosque was opened in 1616 to wow worshippers (and tourists) ever since!

The man behind the mosque’s stunning design was Sedefkâr Mehmed Aga. He incorporated elements of Byzantine Christian design with traditional Islamic architecture. This can be seen in the use of five main domes (much like the Byzantine Hagia Sophia) and six minarets.

Inside, you’ll see all 20,000 of the famed blue tiles lining the walls. Adding still more atmosphere to this awe-inspiring attraction is the natural light that streams in from the 200 stained glass windows!

• Cost – Free (donations appreciated), free tour with the Istanbul tourist pass
• How long should I stay here? 1 hour or less (worth a look and a photo, but it’s quite busy)
• Getting there – Within walking distance! 10 minutes maximum (less).

Insider Tip: The Blue Mosque is still a functioning mosque and tourists should behave accordingly. Both men and women should dress modestly (with shoulders and knees covered), and women should wear a headscarf (these are provided free of charge at the mosque). During prayer times, the mosque is closed to visitors (non-Muslims can still enter and respectfully watch the service). There’s a handy website that gives you all the prayer times for the day so check that before you head out!

12:30 pm – The Basilica Cistern

Time for some lunch! Before entering the Basilica Cistern, take an hour or two to scout a restaurant nearby and enjoy some delicious local cuisine. Alternatively, tackle the cistern first, and luncheon later!

The Underground Cistern (also known as the Basilica Cistern) was built by Byzantine emperor Justinian in the 6th century to hold the water aqueducts brought from the Belgrade Forest. It’s a large and mysterious place that really is worth putting on your Istanbul itinerary!

Most of the 336 marble columns were recycled from older buildings and are in the Doric or Ionian style but look out for the unusual Hen’s Eye Column. The eponymous hen’s eye also resembles a tear that ancient texts suggest was in tribute to the hundreds of slaves who died during the construction of the basilica under which the cistern was built.

You’ll also find that two columns are supported by gigantic plinths that depict Medusa, the legendary monster who turned people to stone when they gazed on her face.

You may recognize the cistern from its starring role on the big screen! It was used as a location in the 1963 James Bond film From Russia with Love and in Inferno , amongst others.

• Cost – $4 USD or free with the Istanbul Tourist Pass.
• How long should I stay here? Around 2 hours (1 for lunch and 1 for the tour)
• Getting there – Again, it is a strolling distance (5 minutes walk) from the Blue Mosque.

2:30 pm – The Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia was built three times in the same spot during the time of the Byzantine Empire. The final version, opened in 537, is the one that’s lasted all the way to the present day — the third time really was the charm! It was built to rival Solomon’s temple and was the largest church for over 1000 years! Today, it’s an absolute must-see on any itinerary for Istanbul!

During the Ottoman Empire, the Hagia Sophia was converted to a mosque and the mix of Christian and Islamic elements are fascinating to see. To become a mosque, the church’s magnificent dome was joined by the four minarets we see today.

The Hagia Sophia used to be a museum until everybody’s favourite Turkmen nationalist Recep Erdogan had it re-instated as a mosque in 2018. The mosaics are particularly impressive. The glittering Virgin Mary Mosaic above the altar is one of the most stunning!

• Cost – $11 USD or free with the Istanbul Tourist Pass.
• How long should I stay here? 1 hour or less
• Getting there – It’s literally just next to the basilica cistern!

3:30 pm – Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is a legendary place to visit in Istanbul! It was built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1453 and was home of the sultans until the late 19th century.

Don’t miss the Outer Treasury, one of the most impressive sites on this Istanbul itinerary! It contains a stunning collection of jewels and armor.

The Harem is certainly worth the extra dollars you pay to enter it! Harems have a reputation for debauchery but they were truthfully the imperial family’s quarters. The harem was ruled by the sultan’s mother (the valide sultan) who had significant power, as well as influence, over the family and the state. The Salon of the Valide Sultan is a stunning highlight of the palace, featuring sublime murals.

Off the Courtyard of the Valide Sultan is a magnificent reception room where members of the harem waited for an audience with the sultan. Close by is the Privy Chamber of Murat III with its splendid three-tiered marble fountain.

In the Apartments of the Crown Prince, one of the loveliest rooms you’ll see while touring Istanbul, look out for the painted dome and the fireplace decorated with blue tiles!

Off the Third Court, The Sacred Safekeeping Rooms house a number of holy relics of the Prophet, while the Imperial Treasury contains spectacular ornate items!

• Cost – $15 USD (an additional $6 USD for entry to the harem and another $5 USD for admission to Hagia Irene) or free with the Istanbul Tourist Pass.
• How long should I stay here? 1 to 2 hours. There’s lots to see, and you can take your time/ stop for a break.
• Getting there – It’s a 5 to 10 minute walk from the Hagia Sophia.

5:30 pm – Istanbul Archaeological Museum

An underrated stop on our Istanbul itinerary, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is an impressive home for fascinating archaeological finds! It’s actually comprised of three museums, all with interesting exhibits!

The Ancient Orient Museum houses artefacts from the pre-Islamic Arabian Peninsula, Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Anatolia. Seeing the world’s oldest known peace treaty (The Treaty of Kadesh signed in 1274 BCE) and its oldest known love poem from Babylon are some of the most humbling and awesome experiences on our 3-day itinerary in Istanbul!

The Archaeology Museum contains some truly epic finds from the classical and later periods. The highlight is undoubtedly the Alexander Sarcophagus which depicts scenes from Alexander the Great’s brilliant reign. Although the original theory that it was his final resting place has since been disproved, it was that of one of his contemporaries and remains an iconic Hellenistic find!

The Lycian Sarcophagus is another standout artefact. It’s covered in scenes from Greek mythology. There are also some impressive finds from the historical site of the legendary city of Troy.

Also, pay attention to the Istanbul Through the Ages exhibition which has a fabulous remnant of the Byzantine chain used to block access to the Golden Horn!

At the Islamic Art Museum, there are also some breathtaking exhibits. The Fountain of Youth, dating from 1590, is one of the most famed items in the collection.

Afterwards, you will be needing a rest. Go back to the hotel, shower, chill, and then go out for an amazing meal later! A top finish to a top day!

• Cost – $4 entrance free
• How long should I stay here? Maximum 1.5 hours. Closes at 7 pm
• Getting there – Again, you’re going to want to use those feet!

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Grand Bazaar | Beyazit Square | Mosque of Süleyman the Magnificent | Egyptian Bazaar | Rüstem Pasa Mosque | Bosphorus Cruise

The second day is all about Eminönü. The Grand Bazaar, a treasure trove of beautiful mosques, and a sunset cruise down the bosphorus strait. Again it’s a lot of walking, so take the time to grab regular breaks at cafe’s and juice bars!

8:30 am – Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar started with an indoor arcade with shops in 1461 and has since grown to include 60 alleys and around 4000 shops! With a plethora of traditional goods and techniques, it’s an inspiring start to the last of 2 days in Istanbul!

The Grand Bazaar has gotten so big that it’s like its own city: beside the shops are workshops, a mosque, a hamam , a police station, a post office and much more! It can feel overwhelming but just remember that getting a bit lost or distracted is part of the experience!

Jewelry is a popular must-have souvenir when you travel to Istanbul. Try Topkapi Özavar and Timuçin Jewelry for a quality selection.

For reputable stockists of antiques, head to Salabi Antiques for a wide variety of jewelry, mirrors and snuff boxes. Eski Fine Arts and Antiques has a great collection of Ottoman-era items.

Everyone loves a Turkish carpet and there are vendors galore in the Grand Bazaar! Sisko Osman is the long-time favorite, while Ethicon offers pieces that combine both the traditional and the contemporary.

When it comes to textiles, Egin Tekstil gets five stars for its quality products which have featured in Hollywood films like The Hobbit and Troy ! Head over to Ottoamano for silk and cashmere textiles!

• How long should I stay here? Under 2 hours. Stop for a break if you get tired!
• Getting there – The tram stop Beyazit – kapalicarsi is where you want to get to. The beyazit bus stop is also very nearby!

Insider Tip: Bargaining is part of the shopping experience at the Grand Bazaar. Take your time to find your perfect purchase; because they’re grouped with merchants of similar stock, vendors understand customer service. If you’re not up to energetic bargaining, remember that some say that the best products are sold by the most relaxed salespeople! Find more tips to negotiating on our helpful Ultimate Haggling Guide !

10:30 am – Beyazit Square

Beyazit Square is yet another beautiful part of Istanbul. Slightly less hectic than the grand bazaar, this is the perfect place to relax and grab a coffee, juice or quick bite to eat.

There are several landmarks worth taking a gander at here, including some lush gardens. The square itself was built by Emperor Theodosius, almost 400 years before the birth of Christ. If that’s not impressive enough for you, then I don’t know what is!

Beyazit Square is a transport hub, so it is very easy to get to, and is super close to loads of brilliant Istanbul attractions. Definitely not one to miss off your Istanbul itinerary!

• How long should I stay here? Around 1.5 hours. There is great garden here too!
• Getting there – It’s super walkable straight from the Grand Bazaar! 5 or 10 minutes.

12 pm – Mosque of Süleyman the Magnificent

On the peak of a hillside on the Golden Horn sits the largest mosque in Istanbul, a must-see on your Istanbul trip itinerary! It was built by architect Mimar Siman for Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent from 1550 to 1557.

The mosque itself is an atmospheric space. It’s covered in carpets and has beautiful low-hanging chandeliers. The great dome has a diameter of 27 meters and is 53 meters high! Lifting this architectural statement are gigantic arches and four large columns.

Koranic calligraphy, blue Iznik tiles, stained glass windows, and mother-of-pearl window shutters decorate the mosque. However, unlike other great mosques, the Süleymaniye is most noted for its simplicity. Most of the walls remain undecorated and the sense of space and light makes it a tranquil place.

Süleyman the Magnificent was the longest-ruling sultan in the Ottoman Empire and reputed for his wisdom and justice. Consistently, he ordered that the mosque provide numerous public services, such as a hamam , hospital, soup kitchen and medrese . You can still visit the hamam today and take coffee in the renovated soup kitchen!

Süleyman and his wife Haseki Hürrem Sultan are both buried in the mosque. Their mausoleums boast amazing tile work and ivory panelling! Mimar Sinan’s tomb is also located in the complex, near the walled garden.

• Getting there – It’s a ten-minute walk from Beyazit Square.

Insider Tip: Remember to plan this stop on your Istanbul itinerary around prayer times!

1:30 pm – Egyptian Bazaar (or Spice Market)

You may not be looking to add spice to tonight’s dinner but whether you’re a cook or not, the Spice Market is always worth visiting when on vacation in Istanbul! It was established all the way back in 1664 and has gathered a reputation ever since! Spices make great souvenirs but you can always just taste the variety of local spices.

Look out for sumac, a derivative of wild berries. It’s used in salads and steamed veggies! You should also definitely taste pul biber, dried red pepper flakes! You’ll probably find it beside the salt at most Turkish restaurants while on a weekend in Istanbul!

This is where it’s a great idea to stop off for lunch. There are loads of places to eat either on rote, or around the spice market.

• How long should I stay here? About 1.5 hours (with lunch)
• Getting there – You can easily walk from the mosque. It’s about ten minutes away.

3:15 pm – Rüstem Pasa Mosque

The last sightseeing of the day, this mosque is an extraordinary addition to any great Itinerary.

Often called the mini Blue Mosque, Rüstem Pasa Mosque is actually considered to house even more exquisite tiles than the Blue Mosque itself!  Like many other Istanbul landmarks, it was designed by the famed architect Mimar Siman in the 16th century.

It may be small but the Rüstem Pasa Mosque packs a punch with its kaleidoscope of color and pattern! Each of the around 2300 Iznik tiles is decorated with floral or geometric designs.

Rüstem Pasa Mosque is even more of a hidden gem as it’s not at street level. You need to ascend the spiral stairs to reach it where it sits above a handful of worn shops.

• How long should I stay here? Less than one hour
• Getting there – It’s only a few minutes walk from the Egyptian Bazaar.

4:30 pm – Bosphorus Straight Cruise

The narrow, natural strait of the Bosphorus forms a natural boundary between Europe and Asial and divides Turkey into Anatolia and Thrace. Together with the Dardanelles, it connects the Black Sea with the Mediterranean and has played a crucial part in international trade for centuries! It’s also a phenomenal way of seeing Istanbul from afar and is an unmissable attraction on any Istanbul trip itinerary!

Cruises on the Bosphorus come in various forms: dinner, lunch or a straight-up ferry ride, you can have your pick! The simplest way is with a ferry ride by Sehir Hatlari, the city’s official carrier. Departures depend on the season and daily weather but you can choose between the short and the long cruise.

The short cruise lasts two hours and is a return trip between Eminönü to Istinye. The long cruise, meanwhile, goes between Eminönü and Rumeli and Anadolu Kavagi, allowing those aboard to view the two coastal peaks that guard the entrance to the Black Sea.

It’s a full-day event that will probably only leave time for two other items on today’s Istanbul itinerary. There are a ton of private operators offering more varied choices. Zoe Yacht is a firm favourite when it comes to luxury.

• Cost – $2, or free with the Istanbul tourist pass (more options are available)
• How long should I stay here? between 2 hours and a whole day. We’d advise going for a sunset dinner cruise. Sounds good right?
• Getting there – You can walk over to the the ferry port, it’s not far from the Rüstem Pasa Mosque!

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Taksim Square | Dolmabahçe Palace | Galata Tower | Istanbul Evening Food Tour

Day 3 is a more chilled day. We’ll get out and see a new part of the city and a few attractions, before heading out on an Istanbul food tour ! The only way to truly experience the city…

8:30 am – Taksim Square

Taksim Square is a top place for breakfast. Surrounded by boutiques, shops and restaurants, this transport hub is worth taking the time to get out to.

Chill out, grab a coffee, and then ready yourself for the final day of your 3-day Istanbul Itinerary. Taksim Gezi park is just a few minutes away and makes a great place to sit while you consider the day.

The domed church of Aya Triada presides over it, and it is the most popular square in Istanbul. Heading onto Istiklal Street is a great way to see a little more local Turkish life, and will take you to a range of great places to have a morning coffee or snack.

• How long should I stay here? Around 2 hours
• Getting there – Taksim has a metro, multiple bus stations… very easy to find!

11:00 am – Dolmabahçe Palace

It was Sultan Abdülmecid who, after deciding that the lavish Topkapi Palace was not European enough, commissioned the splendid Dolmabahçe Palace. After 13 years of painstaking work by Armenian architects Karabet and Nikoos Balian, the palace became the new centre of the Ottoman Empire in 1856!

The blend of architectural styles on display only enhances the sumptuous atmosphere that the palace gives off! You’ll find a mix of Baroque, Neoclassical and Ottoman elements all on show.

The handmade parquet floors are a unique landmark in the palace. They were carved from rosewood, ebony, and mahogany, and although almost hidden by furniture, they are truly stunning! The world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier can also be found in the palace, courtesy of British Queen Victoria!

You can also one of the more unusual Istanbul attractions at the palace: the room where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, lived and died.

It’s also worth visiting the National Palaces Painting Museum which holds around 200 pieces of fine art. Finish off this wonderful Istanbul itinerary attraction with a snack at the waterside cafe!

• Cost – $4 USD will get you into this magnificent temple to architecture and exuberance!
• How long should I stay here? Between 1 and 2 hours
• Getting there – You can walk from Taksim Square, but it is a little far, so don’t feel bad about taking a taxi.

1 pm – Galata Tower

Fortress, prison, observatory…Galata Tower has been a multifunctional attraction in its centuries-old history and is the ideal place to celebrate one day in Istanbul!

The current structure took root in 1348 and has been renovated by the Genoese and the Ottomans. It was once the tallest building in the city and it still occupies an eminent spot on the Golden Horn.

The balcony on the top of the tower offers wonderful panoramic views of the city and fortunately, there’s only one flight of stairs to climb to enjoy them!

• Cost – $4 USD will get you in, and it’s not included with the tourist pass.
• How long should I stay here? Under an hour (just a little climb really)
• Getting there – Taxi, or bus to Kemeralti. This will take around 30 minutes.

6:30 pm – Istanbul Evening Food Tour

After an afternoon to yourself, it’s time for evening entertainment. One of the best things about Istanbul is the delicate mixture of Asian and European foods, and taking advantage of this is a veritable must for your time in Istanbul!

Sample street food, meze, kebabs, bizarre liquors and more while your guide takes you through some of the most interesting and tasty areas of Istanbul. A city is only ever as good as its culinary scene, and Istanbul is not let down. Delicious dishes coming right up! This is a priceless addition to any time spent in Istanbul.

• Cost – Starting at $100
• How long should I stay here? 3.5 hours
• Getting there – The Karakoy bus stop is nearby, otherwise grab a taxi!

Eyup Sultan Mosque

Another massive Turkish mosque, if you found the blue mosque fascinating, then this one will surely impress too!

Built on the tomb of Abu Eyup el-Ensari, this Mosque has an impressive history dating back to the first Arab siege. With two great towers, and a large dome, it’s an impressive building, and visitors are able to head inside to inspect the lavish interior.

As with any mosque you visit in Turkey, check that your visit doesn’t clash with prayer times.

• How long should I stay here? Around an hour
• Getting there – Grab a taxi or take a bus to Eyupsultan bus station!

Chora Church – (Temporarily closed, but you might have some luck now!)

When you have 3 days in Istanbul, pop into Chora Church for an inspiring experience! The church was built during the time of the Eastern Roman Empire but it was during the Byzantine Empire that it acquired its most gorgeous features!

Unusually, Chora’s frescoes are in chronological order and tell Biblical stories. The Cycle of the Life of the Virgin is one of the most beautiful you’ll see while on vacation in Istanbul! It depicts the life of Mary, the mother of Jesus, in 17 vivid mosaics.

The Cycle of the Infancy of Christ and the Cycle of Christ’s Ministry present Jesus’ life and miracles, such as the turning of water into wine!

Chora Church also boasts some beautifully painted domes with a rich quality of image, despite the damage it underwent through the ages! For sheer beauty alone, Chora Church is worth a stop on your Istanbul itinerary!

• Getting there – Edirnekapi is the closest bus stop. Take a taxi if you’re not sure!

Turkish baths traditionally entailed a sauna and steam, followed by a full-body wash and finishing with a massage. Today, the practice has been adapted to include the best of modern spa treatments, making a hamam the perfect treat for your body after 3 days in Istanbul!

Kiliç Ali Pasa Hamam is our favorite hamam that blends the traditional with the modern. It was built in the 1580s by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Siman (who was also behind the Mosque of Süleyman the Magnificent). It was extensively renovated and is a lovely space with exposed brickwork and a stunning domed ceiling!

Guests are given homemade serbet before being led into the bath for exfoliation and a wash. Feel free to add on a massage.

Ayasofya Hürrem Sultan Hamam , also built by Mimar Siman (this time for the sultan’s wife), is another good option. It’s located right between the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque and is appropriately elegant. The interior is a mix of dark woods and marbled fountains.

There are four hamam packages to choose from, ranging from the basic wash and scrub to clay masks, aromatherapy and skin peels!

• Cost – costs vary, but you should be expecting a minimum of $25 really
• How long should I stay here? A few hours. You can get a massage, drinks, the experience is kind of endless and very relaxed.
• Getting there – There are several baths in the city. Check up on your nearest!

Insider Tip:  There are separate baths for men and women who must enter separately or come at different times of the day. Men generally are completely naked beneath a bath-wrap which should be worn at all times. Women tend to keep on their bottom underwear under the bath-wrap but not always. Finally, tipping is expected.

Well, apart from rather frosty winters, Istanbul enjoys a generally mild Mediterranean climate, meaning you can visit Istanbul year-round!

Most tourists tend to head to Mediterranean destinations like Istanbul during the summer, but it gets hot! You may well be tempted to pick a milder season.

Spring, particularly May, is a great time for visiting Istanbul! The moderate weather encourages sightseeing and the parks are blooming with tulips. For similar reasons, September is another great month to vacation in Istanbul.

Although we do caution you against the extreme summer heat, there are pluses to planning a Turkish itinerary in summer — particularly for culture lovers! The Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival brings the arts to the country’s magnificent ancient theatres, bringing these ancient ruins to life once more!

Getting around Istanbul can be a bit tricky as traffic is truly hectic so make sure you know where you’re going and how before you end up in a traffic jam! Fortunately, many Istanbul landmarks are in close proximity so you can walk between them quite a lot of the time.

The metro bus is one of the best ways of getting around. Although it’s cheap and the buses have their own lanes to speed up the journeys, there are also numerous stops which mean that the buses are uncomfortably packed!

The metro/tram is generally a better alternative. Istanbul has invested increasingly in the service recently and it’s quite efficient.

Taxis abound in Istanbul but be sure to choose taxis with an official logo and get ready to be ripped off. Uber operates in a scaled-down manner in the city but you can also use the BiTaksi app to hail the nearest reliable taxi.

Istanbul actually gets a range of weather. If it’s summer though, I’d suggest not packing a ski jacket. It gets haaawt . The winter is pretty chilly here, however, so even though it’s the med it’s worth packing for cold.

Istanbul was targeted by terrorists on a number of occasions over the last few years and Turkey’s latest incursions into Syria will probably make it a target again. However, the odds of being killed by terrorism are extremely low and the fact is that Istanbul is as fact safe for tourists.

To keep an eye on political tensions or external threats, read your country’s travel advisory to stay updated. Bear in mind that some parts of Turkey, such as the Syrian border, are far more dangerous than Istanbul.

Theft and muggings are quite rare for a big city but exercise caution in crowded areas, like the Grand Bazaar. The biggest danger is theft of unattended possessions or pickpockets.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Istanbul

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what people usually ask when planning their Istanbul itinerary.

How many days do you need for Istanbul?

Spending 4-5 full days in Istanbul will give you plenty of time to see all the best sights.

What should you include on a 3 day Istanbul itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these epic Istanbul highlights: – Sultanahmet Square – The Blue Mosque – Grand Bazaar – The Spice Market

Where is the best place to stay for one week in Istanbul?

Sultanahment’s central location makes it ideal for travellers with a full Istanbul itinerary.

Are there any good day trips from Istanbul?

Some of the best Istanbul day trips include a Princes’ Island Tour, a Gallipoli full day tour, a trip to Troy, and a visit to Bursa & Mt. Uludag .

From the time it was called Byzantium to its Roman Era as Constantinople to its modern era as Istanbul, Istanbul has undergone many transformations that have left their splendid marks on the city’s landscape! A stately city with many spectacular monuments, it’s easy to see why so many empires have called it home. You, too, can feel as at ease on a trip to Istanbul with our insider’s Istanbul itinerary!

Istanbul may be a labyrinth of imperial palaces and divine spaces but it’s also an earthy place of hearty meals and heaped carpets. It would take a lifetime to get close to discovering all of the city’s secrets but our Istanbul itinerary will get you as close as possible in a few days!

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No worries, Basilica Cistern is open right now and better than the old version.

How can you miss the street food info of Istanbul… Their food is a paradise, specially for Vegetarians

It’ s a pity everyone nowadays dares write whatever they please and publish it. Hagia Sophia is a mosque and no longer a museum, Topkapi palace price is double, Cistern is closed for restoration, Blue mosque is open but also under restoration. What is the use of copy-pasting stuff you have no idea about? I am shocked.

Yes, sometimes we also long for the good old days of mass illiteracy too.

Anyway, let us assure that you we do not copy and paste our content. Perhaps some of the information in our Istanbul Itinerary is out of date though so thank you for your bringing it to our attention. We shall get it fixed and updated ASAP.

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Istanbul Travel Guide: Discover the Two-Continent Metropolis

Discovering istanbul: your gateway to history, culture, and adventure.

Welcome to the ultimate Istanbul travel guide, your reliable resource for planning an unforgettable trip to the city that straddles two continents. This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about exploring Istanbul, from the best time to visit the most scrumptious dishes to try. Explore Turkey with One Nation Travel’s Turkey tour packages , featuring the captivating city of Istanbul.

Why Istanbul?

Istanbul, a city where East meets West, is a melting pot of cultures, a testament to numerous civilizations, and an amalgamation of the past and the present. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art enthusiast, or a shopaholic, Istanbul never fails to charm and astonish with its vibrant blend of cultural elements, making it an ideal destination for various travel intents.

Getting There

Istanbul is well connected to the rest of the world through two major international airports – Istanbul Atatürk Airport and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. Numerous airlines operate regular flights to Istanbul from major cities worldwide, ensuring your journey is smooth and hassle-free.

Getting Around Istanbul

Navigating Istanbul is a breeze thanks to its efficient public transportation system. From trams and metros to buses and ferries, there are numerous ways to explore this sprawling city. One of the most convenient ways to travel is by using an Istanbulkart, a rechargeable smart card valid for almost all means of public transport.

Places to Visit in Istanbul

From the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque and the historic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar and the majestic Topkapi Palace, Istanbul teems with must-visit sights. No trip to Istanbul is complete without a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, where Europe and Asia meet, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.

Istanbul Tours & Activities

A well-curated Istanbul tour package can make your Istanbul visit hassle-free and more enjoyable. Various tour operators offer comprehensive packages that cover the city’s top attractions, ensuring you don’t miss out on any essential experiences.

Foods to Try in Istanbul

Istanbul is a gastronomic paradise, boasting a rich culinary heritage. Do not leave without trying the city’s signature dishes such as the savory “döner kebab”, the delectable “baklava”, and the iconic Turkish tea and coffee.

Shopping in Istanbul

The city offers a unique shopping experience, from the traditional markets like the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar teeming with colorful ceramics, textiles, and spices, to modern malls that offer international brands.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Istanbul are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. However, Istanbul has a charm that can be enjoyed all year round.

Recommended Local Istanbul Tour Company: One Nation Travel

Discover the best of Istanbul and Turkey with One Nation Travel’s expertly crafted tour packages. From the iconic landmarks of Istanbul to the natural wonders of Cappadocia and Pamukkale, we offer a range of options to suit every traveler’s needs. With local guides and customizable itineraries, your perfect Turkish adventure awaits.

Top Experiences & Tours in Istanbul

• Historic Areas: Guided tours of Sultanahmet District’s architectural marvels.
• Culinary Exploration: Food tours that sample the best of Turkish and Ottoman cuisine.
• Cultural Shows: Live performances of Turkish music and dances.
• Art and Craft: Workshops on Turkish carpet weaving or pottery.

Bridging Worlds in Istanbul

Istanbul, a vibrant mosaic of cultures and histories, offers more than just a gateway between Europe and Asia—it provides a passage through time. As you wander from one continent to another, let the magic of this eternal city inspire tales of your own to tell.

Top 3 Favorite Tours of Turkey

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Istanbul travel tips: 18 Things to know before traveling to Istanbul

Planning to travel to Istanbul for the first time? Here are the best Istanbul travel tips you need to know to enjoy this incredible Turkish city.

Traveling to Istanbul for the first time? It is exciting to be going to this incredible city that is full of wonders and partially a Unesco World Heritage site.

Having been to Istanbul for the first time myself and making a number of mistakes, I have enough knowledge to write a detailed guide of all the Istanbul travel tips using my personal and general experiences so that you are not as green as I was when you reach this Turkish megapolis city.

Disclaimer* This post contains affiliate links and I might earn a small commission if you purchase through them but with no extra cost to you. This commission helps to keep the lights on here. You can read our privacy policy for more details. Thank you for supporting the Adventurous feet

Istanbul is a big and fascinating city and a dream destination for many travelers.  With so much history and modern sides to it, it is the only city in the world that lies on 2 continents – Asia and Europe.

Istanbul is one of the major touristic cities in the world receiving over 39 million tourists every year (as of 2018 figures). With all those tourists on the go, it might be overwhelming for first-time visitors to figure out how best they can enjoy the city.

Please note that this post is not about the things to do , places to see in Istanbul , or even places to stay but rather travel tips for Istanbul for first-time visitors

If your trip to Istanbul is also the first time you’re taking a flight, read this post to get all the must-know tips for first-time flyers .

Before You Go, Here Are Some Quick Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip to Istanbul

–  Book your accommodation in advance. For the best stay, I suggest staying at Royal Suites Sultanahmet (9.0/10) if you’re on a budget, Meroddi Galata Mansion (8.7/10) if you’re on a mid-range budget, or the Galataport Hotel (8.6/10) for a luxurious stay. If you’d rather book an apartment, this is the apartment rental I recommend. –  Don’t miss out on popular tours and activities in Istanbul. Some of my favorites are; the Whirling Dervishes Show , this 3-hour Bosphorus cruise dinner , this Hagia Sophia guided tour , and this Topkapi palace guided tour . –  Don’t forget to take Travel Insurance.  Request a free quote from my favorite insurance, World Nomads . –  To get the most out of your visit, I recommend buying this Istanbul pass . It will give you free access to popular attractions in the city, free public transportation, and a cruise on the Bosphorus. –  Plan your trip to Istanbul extensively with this Lonely Planet Istanbul guidebook .

General Istanbul travel tips

Arriving in istanbul.

There are so many options for arriving in Istanbul. You can opt for a train, bus, flight or even a ship but of course, that will depend on where you’re coming from!

If you choose to travel to Istanbul by plane, you can check out the flight weekly deals with Skyscanner and book your flight with Expedia , the number one website with great flight deals.

Visa requirements

Just like traveling to any other place, you’ll need to obtain a visa if you’re coming from another country (though some nationalities don’t require one).

If you’re required to get a visa to enter Turkey, you can apply for an e-visa from the Turkish visa information website .

Related post: The ultimate guide to visiting Turkey

Experiences not to miss in Istanbul

While visiting Istanbul, there are some experiences you should not miss out on, whether you’re visiting for a week, a few days, or even a month.

Below are some that will make your Istanbul trip memorable.

Cruising the Bosphorus

There is no trip to Istanbul that is complete without cruising the Bosphorus strait to explore both the European and Asian sides of this country.

Whether you book this afternoon Bosphorus cruise to be able to see how the sun shines on some of the popular attractions, this sunset cruise to see how the sun dips behind the same, or this dinner Bosphorus cruise with entertainment to watch the shimmering lights from those major landmarks of Istanbul, you’re bound to be treated to an amazing experience.

Watching the Whirling Dervishes Show

Spend some time being blown away by the whirling Dervish show as you watch this traditional dance that has been a part of Turkey’s culture and one of the most important heritage from the Islamic culture inspired by Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi (1207-1273).

There are a number of places where you can watch the Whirling Dervish Show in Istanbul but the one I highly recommend is at the HodjaPasha Culture Center .

You can always book your ticket on-site but to make sure you skip the long lines and have a guaranteed spot, you can book an onlıne ticket from here .

Travel tips for Istanbul for first-time visitors

1. don’t try to see everything in istanbul.

As I said earlier, Istanbul is massively huge and the idea that you’ll be able to see everything seems far-fetched.

Instead of running around the city from one place to another in a rush and eventually get overwhelmed, why not prioritize the places to visit by creating a proper Istanbul itinerary .

Istanbul offers a mix of history, culture, and modern, so decide which section you fancy the most or try to even mix it a little bit by visiting half of the historical part and the modern part. With that, you’ll be able to see a great deal of Istanbul.

You can also read my previous post that showcases some of the best things to do in Istanbul for an amazing time in the city.

2. Get yourself an Istanbul kart (Istanbul card).

Like many major cities in the world, Istanbul revolutionized its public transportation by introducing an Istanbul Kart in 2009 also known as the Istanbul Card.

Public transportation in Istanbul is as good or nearly as good as private transportation – so you shouldn’t be afraid to use it.

The Istanbul card is used to pay for all public transportation around Istanbul whether buses, metros, or ship.

It costs a one-time fee of  10TL(Turkish Liras) and comes preloaded with 4TL.  After that, you keep loading credit on it to be able to use public transportation.

Most of the stations have a point where you can purchase or recharge your Istanbul card from.

And the advantage of using an Istanbul card is that you always get a discount on transportation and can be used by up to 5 people.

For example, if you use a bus in the morning (or any time) and a few hours later, you use it for the ship, the ship price will be discounted.

Unfortunately, if you don’t purchase an Istanbul card, it will be sometimes hard to use public buses, metro, or a ship.

However, you can still use the yellow taxis but I found the experience of using an Istanbul card very interesting and convenient.

Related post:  Things to do in Istanbul at night

3. Get the museum pass

If you’re planning to visit different museums and archaeological sites, a museum pass will be very useful.

The museum pass can be obtained from any historical site that accepts them or even online.

It can also be used in selected museums and archeological sites around the country. If you only plan to visit one city in Turkey, you can opt for a regional museum pass instead of the nationwide one.

The advantage of getting the museum pass is that you save more money on entry fees and time as you don’t waste time in queues.

All you have to do is to swipe the pass in the machine, once accepted, you enter immediately without spending time lining up.

The museum pass costs 210TL, saving you some money for your next adventure making it one of the best ways to enjoy Istanbul on a budget .

If you’re planning to travel to Istanbul only, get yourself this Istanbul museum pass that costs 125TL and gives you one-time access to most museums and archaeological sites for 120 hours after the initial usage of the pass.

On top of the Museum pass, I’d recommend you to buy this Istanbul tourist pass . It also has the same advantages as the Museum pass but it can also be used in other major tourist sites, not just museums.

The Tourist pass can be easily bought online from here .

4. Download travel apps for visiting Istanbul

These apps are not only for people visiting Istanbul for the first time but even Istanbul frequent travelers that want to make their trip easier.

So before you go, download these apps to make traveling around Istanbul easier.

The grand bazaar app

With over 4,000 shops and a total number of daily visitors between 250,000 to 400,000 people, the grand bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

With all that, it might be a bit difficult to navigate easily within the grand bazaar especially for first-time visitors.

But with the grand bazaar app, you’ll be able to navigate easily and fast. You can use the app to locate everything you need from an ATM, restaurants, restrooms to specific shops.

The advantage of this app is that it not only shows you the location of the place but also how to get there from your current location.

Even though yellow taxis are widely spread in Istanbul, sometimes it might be a little hard to get one when you urgently need it.

BiTaksi is a great app to order for a private taxi and it will be available in just a few minutes.

The best part is that with this app you’re able to see all the details of the driver from the license number, name to phone number and on top of that, you’ll be able to see how much the journey costs from the fare calculator that is incorporated within the app. “Think of BiTaksi as the uber version in Istanbul.”

This is another useful app that every first-time traveler to Istanbul should download.

Istanbul being a big city curated with traffic, it might be hard for a first-time traveler to get around easily using public transportation.

This is where the Trafi app comes in to show you all the available means of public transportation near your current location.

The app shows you all the schedules of public transit, how long the journey will take, and also the real-time traffic in that area for each particular mode of transport.

With these apps downloaded on your phone, you’re bound to have a fabulous stay in Istanbul.

Other great apps to download while visiting Istanbul include; Sesli Sozluk to easily translate words and sentences from/to English and Turkish, Yandex.maps for easy navigation around Istanbul, and Yemeksepeti for food delivery.

Related: Check out these free travel apps that might also be useful while traveling in Istanbul.

5. Get a prepaid Turkish sim card

When you visit Istanbul for the first time, it will be much easier to buy a prepaid sim card that is if your phone is unlocked.

The most common service providers are Turkcell and Vodaphone. All these have a tourist sim card that comes loaded with the internet, calling minutes, and text messages.

The amount of GBs, minutes, and texts depending on the package you choose.

The best sim card will depend on personal requirements, so I advise you to walk up to both shops, compare the packages and prices and choose the one that suits your needs.

Nevertheless, most people recommend using Turkcell as it seems to have the best packages and most 4G network coverage but Vodaphone is just right behind it.

6. Be aware of Istanbul’s traffic

Traffic in Istanbul is chaotic and can be worse during peak hours that’s why it’s not surprising that it was named one of the worst cities in terms of traffic and congestion in Europe. 

So, for short distances where you can walk, do so, instead of spending unnecessary time in traffic. Just make sure you know where you’re headed by using some of the apps that I suggested above.

Furthermore, Turkey uses the right-hand traffic flow system, so be cautious if you come from a country that uses the left-hand traffic flow.

Since I come from Uganda which uses a left-hand traffic system, it took me time to get used to their system, and a few times I ended up looking in the wrong direction before crossing the roads.

7. Learn a few Turkish words before you go

Turkish people are friendly and welcoming and speaking a few of their words or even making an effort to construct a sentence in Turkish will bring you closer to their hearts.

During the time I visited Turkey, I knew a few words in Turkish, and every time I used them or tried to make a sentence, I’d see the Turks’ eyes light up more.

This shows them that you’re not just visiting the tourist sites but actually care about the people and their language.

Here are a few words and phrases you should learn before you go.

• Hello: Merhabā (mehr-hah-bah)
• Good Morning: Günaydın (gew-nahy-duhn)
• Good evening:  iyi akşamlar
• Please: Lütfen (lewt-fehn)
• Thank you: Teşekkürler (te-shek-kewr-lehr)
• Yes: Evet (eh-vet)No: Hayir (hah-yuhr)
• How are you?  Nasılsınız? ( NAHS-suhl-suh-nuhz)
• I’m fine, thank you. İyiyim, teşekkür ederim. (ee-YEE-yihm, tesh-ek-KEWR eh-dehr-eem)
• Good night  İyi geceler (EE geh-jeh-LEHR)
• I don’t understand: Anlamadım (an-la-ma-duhm)
• Where is: Nerede (neh-reh-deh)What’s your name: Adınız ne (ah-duh-nuhz neh)

You can learn more Turkish words and phrases from here .

Related post: Fun facts about Turkey that you should know

8. Do not rent a car in Istanbul

As you might have read earlier, Istanbul’s traffic is crazy to the point of being named one of the most trafficked cities in Europe and in the world.

As a first-time traveler, you don’t want to waste your precious time in traffic or trying to learn how to navigate the city, so it’s important not to rent a car while in Istanbul.

In the same regard, Istanbul’s public transportation is quite comfortable. Whether it is taking a train, Tram, a ship, or a yellow taxi, you’ll feel comfortable while transiting through Istanbul as the locals do.

Related: While traveling in Istanbul, make sure that you avoid making these Istanbul travel mistakes.

9. Book your accommodation on time

Since Istanbul is a touristy place with millions of visitors, it is better to book your hotel in advance.

Here you’ll get the most value for your money and find a good place in the center of Istanbul.

Ready to book your accommodation in Istanbul? Book it from here with booking.com and choose the best hotel to suit your needs.

Note: Booking.com doesn’t work while in Turkey. So if you need to book accommodation with them, you should do it before entering the country.

Some of the hotels I recommend staying at in Istanbul include; Basileus Hotel Istanbul which is located in the heart of the Sultanahmet district, Cheers Hostel if you’re traveling on a budget, and Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel if you want to stay in the best location.

If you don’t see anything you like in the ones I’ve recommended, then you can check out more places to stay in Istanbul here .

10. Carry comfortable shoes you can easily walk with

Istanbul is very big – I can’t emphasize that enough! And to be able to see most of the things, you’ll need to walk or even take a train.

So taking comfortable shoes to walk around the city is a perfect idea. Actually, if you try to look at the locals in Istanbul, it is soo hard to even find a single person wearing high heels.

Most of them do wear sneakers or sports shoes as they are easy and comfortable to walk with.

Don’t have good walking shoes? Why not check on Amazon for the best walking shoes that are highly rated by previous buyers.

11. Is Istanbul tourist-friendly?

Istanbul is one of the major tourist places in Europe receiving travelers from all over the world.

With major touristic sites like Hagia Sophia, the blue mosque, and the grand bazaar, Istanbul should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Even with so many things to do in Istanbul, first-time travelers still wonder whether Istanbul is tourist-friendly. The simple answer is yes!

Turkish people are always friendly and sometimes willing to go out of their way to offer help.

But even though it is tourist-friendly, there are a few people that target tourists to scam them. Read this post to find out all the Istanbul scams and how to avoid them.

12. How safe is Istanbul for tourists?

Istanbul is generally safe for tourists even solo travelers. But like any other place, you just need to take care of yourself and your items.

Security is paramount whether you’re visiting Istanbul for the first time or a frequent traveler, so you just need to be aware of your surroundings and Istanbul will be very safe for you.

You can my previous post to get all the general tips on how to stay safe while traveling .

Related post: Is it safe to travel to Turkey now?

13. How many days are enough for Istanbul?

There is no specific rule on how many days you should spend in Istanbul. Actually, this should be decided by you depending on the time you have, your budget, and what you want to see in Istanbul.

But personally, I’d suggest spending at least 5 days in Istanbul to be able to experience the city a little more.

But if you have more time and money, why not go as far as a month because there is so much to see and experience that even after a month, you’ll still want more of this amazing city.

14. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul still depends on you individually, whether you want to do summer activities or winter activities .

But as a first-time traveler to Istanbul, it is better to travel during either summer or, early fall or spring months to be able to enjoy Istanbul without worrying about wearing several coats and jackets to warm up.

However, since in most cases, the question of the best time to visit a certain place is based on weather, in summary, the best time to visit Istanbul would be in the spring and autumn months when the weather is ideal and the city is not crowded by the swarm of tourists like in summer.

To make it easier for you to decide on when to visit, here is an overview of Istanbul weather.

15. Places to visit in Istanbul

Istanbul is endowed with a number of incredible places to visit from the oldest church to the heart-throbbing museums that receive thousands of visitors on a daily basis.

And as a first-time traveler, here are some of the places not to miss in Istanbul include;

• The Blue Mosque
• Hagia Sophia
• Topkapi Palace
• Suleymaniye Mosque
• The Grand Bazaar
• Galata Tower
• Cruise the Bosphorous to see both the European and Asian side of Istanbul
• Taksim and so many others.
• You can also check out my complete list of the best things to do in Istanbul .

16. What to wear in Istanbul

You’ve probably heard that you need to fully cover up (especially women) while traveling in Istanbul.

But I’d like to set the record straight that this is not ALL true. Yes, almost 95 percent of Turks are Moslems but they’re not very conservative.

This means that they do not mind so much about what you wear especially in big cities as long as you’re modest enough.

However, when visiting places of worship, you’ll need to cover your shoulders and legs! And no, you do not need to cover your head with a scarf.

So in summary, you can literally wear anything in Istanbul as long as your dress appropriately while visiting mosques. Clothes like summer dresses, tank tops, jeans, skirts, or shorts are totally wearable in Istanbul.

17. What to pack for Istanbul

To enjoy Istanbul to the maximum, you need to have all the travel essentials. So here are some of the travel essentials not to leave behind when traveling to Istanbul.

• A Travel scarf:   This scarf   is soft on the skin but also big enough to act as a blanket or a cover when you find yourself in places where you need to cover your hair. But if you need an anti-theft scarf,  this one  is a great choice and can keep a number of items with the phone inclusive.
• A collapsible water bottle:  As a traveler, you shouldn’t leave a bottle behind when going to Istanbul. So pack  this collapsible water bottle  so that you can refill it every time it runs dry.
• A money belt or Travel pouch:  Since there is a lot of street theft in Istanbul, especially in crowded places like the Grand Bazaar, I’d advise you to either carry  this money belt  or this travel pouch  to be able to keep your money safe.
• A universal travel adapter : Since Istanbul might have different sockets compared to other countries, I’d advise you to buy a universal travel adapter so that you don’t keep changing for every country you go to. You can  buy one from here  if you don’t have it yet.
•   A power Bank : One of the things you should never leave behind while traveling to Istanbul is the Powerbank! Phones have now become a great deal of our lives that we need to use them for so many important things. So take a power bank with you so that you don’t run out of battery.  This power bank   is small, light, and has the capability to charge your phone and other devices multiple times.
•   Microfibre travel towel  – I always opt for  this microfibre travel towel   because it is super lightweight, easy to wash, and dries easily.
•   First Aid kit : Regardless of where you’re traveling to, you’ll need to pack a First Aid kit for emergencies that might arise. Remember it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Just make sure that the one you pack has all the essentials and that it is small and light enough to fit in any kind of suitcase/ backpack.  This first aid kit   actually fits all the qualities mentioned above plus it is really cheap for what it offers.

18. Be aware of Istanbul travel scams

Like all major cities, Istanbul has its own share of scams targeting majorly tourists.

So as a first-time traveler to Instanbul, the best thing you can do to not get scammed is by researching the most common scams in Istanbul.

Some of the commons scams you should look out for include;

• Being invited for a drink at a bar by a super friendly local that knows a nice place that has the best beers/whiskeys in town.
• Someone offering you help at the Grand Bazaar. 
•  Street robbery/ Pickpockets

Final Thoughts on the Best Istanbul Travel Tips

Now that you know everything you should know as a first-time traveler to Istanbul, it’s time to pack your bags and get ready to experience a trip of a lifetime.

Have you been to Istanbul yet? Do you have other travel tips for Istanbul that worked for you? Share with us by leaving them in the comment section.

NEVER TRAVEL ANYWHERE WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip is to forego Travel Insurance! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s  NOT  that expensive! There are many Travel Insurance companies out there, but I love  World Nomads ! They cover almost every single thing you might face/do while traveling, it is easy to request a quote, and if you ever need to claim, the claiming process is not a rat race! I’ve used World Nomads on all my trips, and I am confident and happy to recommend it to you! No worries if you’re not yet ready to book your trip, you can request a  free quote from World Nomads here  and see if it suits your personal needs!

More posts to help you plan your trip to Turkey:

• Best places to visit in Turkey.
• Things to do in Istanbul at night
• How to enjoy Istanbul on a budget
• Free things to do in Istanbul
• Things to know before traveling to Turkey
• Things to do in Marmaris, Turkey
• Cool facts about Turkey
• Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

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Hey! Came here for other things but since you mentioned scams, I’ll share my experience. I arrived to Turkey to realise my apartment booked on booking.com doesn’t exist. Booking.com refunded me but still, it was very stressful arrival since it was midnight when I got there. Anyway, be aware of any accommodation that has a few reviews on both, booking.com or Airbnb, these are likely to be scam as I found many more similar offers with the same red flags once I realised I fell for the trap. Be safe people, Turks are friendly but not all of them 🙂

That’s really a complete and detailed guide about Istanbul. I will definitely benefit from your advices. Especially Istanbulkart advice.

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Video shows FedEx cargo plane land on its nose in Istanbul after landing gear fails

A Boeing-767 type cargo plane operated by FedEx ran into a couple of bumps and sparks as it attempted to land at Istanbul Airport in Turkey without its front landing gear Wednesday.

The cargo plane, operated by FedEx, was flying from Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport, according to a statement by Turkey's Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu , when the pilot of the aircraft informed the control tower at Istanbul Airport that its landing gear had failed to open. The official said airport officials sprang into action and assisted the aircraft in touching down, while managing to remain on the runway. Emergency response, medical teams and necessary fire extinguishing equipment was also deployed on standby, Uraloğlu said.

Video footage from the landing shows the plane touching down on the runway before it tilts forward and starts dragging on its nose the runway creating a cloud of dust and sparks. It eventually comes to a stop with its fuselage touching the ground. As the plane comes to a halt, fire trucks douse the plane with water.

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"With the successful guidance of our staff, the aircraft landed smoothly on its fuselage," Uraloğlu said.

No injuries reported

Two pilots were onboard the aircraft, according to Uraloğlu's statement, and were medically assessed after the landing. No injuries were reported.

The runway where the plane had landed was temporarily closed for all flights as multiple agencies gathered on site. A video shared by the minister shows crews and officials gathered around the aircraft while a fire truck and ambulance are parked on the side.

An investigation into the incident is ongoing, said Uraloğlu without going into further details into why the landing gear had failed.

Another Boeing plane issue? Don't fall for the headlines.

The freight aircraft involved in the accident is nearly 10 years old and was delivered to FedEx in 2014, according to a Boeing spokesperson. Following delivery, operators oversee ongoing maintenance for airplanes in operation. Reuters reported that Boeing 767 freighter is one of the most common cargo planes.

FedEx, meanwhile, in a statement to USA TODAY, said that the FedEx Express Flight 6268 was flying from Paris to Istanbul when it experienced an issue during landing.

"There were no reported injuries to our crew members," FedEx said. "We are coordinating with investigation authorities and will provide additional information as it is available."

While Boeing incidents have been in the news in recent months after a series of high-profile incidents, aviation experts maintain you shouldn't worry about flying .

“We don’t have to worry that there’s something systemically wrong with aviation,” Clint Balog, an associate professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, previously told USA TODAY.

Contributing: Staff, USA TODAY

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @saman_shafiq7.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Video shows FedEx cargo plane land on its nose in Istanbul after landing gear fails