Things to do in Istanbul

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Istanbul which includes a marina, landscape views and general coastal views

Istanbul featuring religious elements, a mosque and heritage architecture

Topkapi Palace which includes a bay or harbor, a city and a river or creek

Galata Bridge which includes city views, a ferry and night scenes

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Istanbul must see attractions

1. Taksim Square

Taksim Square is where the old and new collide to present a fascinating snapshot of life in Istanbul. This is the beating heart of the Beyoglu district, on the European and modern side of the city. Spend a day admiring the landmarks that decorate the square and enjoying art and theatrical events. Explore the many drinking, dining and shopping options in the area.

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2. Blue Mosque

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

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Blue Mosque featuring heritage architecture, a mosque and religious elements

3. Hagia Sophia

As one of the finest architectural marvels, as well as one of the largest churches, in the world, Hagia Sophia is Istanbul’s most famous landmark. The building you see today represents many cultures.  Known in Turkish as “Ayasofya” (Sacred Wisdom), Hagia Sophia has been of major religious importance to the region, and for various faiths. The church was first commissioned by the Romans and was opened in A.D. 360 before becoming Constantinople’s main Christian place of worship. After riots destroyed the building not once but twice, a new basilica was eventually built in the sixth century, and the Hagia Sophia became the center of Eastern Orthodox Christianity.

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4. Galata Tower

When it was built, the stone Galata Tower was the tallest structure in Istanbul, its nine stories rising high to nearly 220 feet (67 meters).

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5. Grand Bazaar

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

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6. Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is among the best preserved Ottoman palaces, located on the spot where settlement in Istanbul began. A visit to its quarters provides insight into the Ottoman history of the Turkish city. The 15th-century Topkapi Palace was converted into a museum under Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, in 1924.

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Topkapi Palace featuring a sunset and heritage architecture

What to do in Istanbul

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Istanbul

Taksim Square

4.5/5(1,890 reviews)

See historical monuments, attend performing arts shows and discover a lively shopping and dining scene in the heart of modern Istanbul.

Blue Mosque

4.5/5(2,201 reviews)

The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.

Hagia Sophia

4.5/5(2,130 reviews)

Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.

Galata Tower

4.5/5(1,209 reviews)

Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.

Grand Bazaar

4.5/5(2,165 reviews)

Enter the maze of shop-lined streets in one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world to browse hundreds of thousands of hand-crafted objects.

Bosphorus

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Bosphorus during your travels in Istanbul. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.

Topkapi Palace

4.5/5(1,437 reviews)

The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.

Sultanahmet Square

4.5/5(1,046 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a visit to Sultanahmet Square. Add the area's shops or notable monuments to your travel plans.

Istiklal Avenue

4.5/5(331 reviews)

During your visit to Istanbul, you can enjoy retail therapy at Istiklal Avenue. Discover the area's fascinating museums and stunning cathedral.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Istanbul

Blue Mosque featuring a mosque, a pond and a fountain

Sultanahmet

Discover the charm of old Istanbul in this working-class district, featuring narrow streets with tightly packed apartment buildings. Explore historic sites like Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia, or indulge in diverse cuisines, all easily accessible by tramway.

Taksim

4/5(1,856 area reviews)

Major tourist hub, Taksim Square boasts a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, shops, and grand hotels. Explore İstiklal Caddesi, ride the nostalgic tram, and visit iconic landmarks like the Republic Monument and Taksim Mosque.

Kadıköy

4/5(165 area reviews)

Cosmopolitan and bustling, this area boasts numerous bars, cinemas, and bookshops, as well as diverse dining options and shopping centers like Tepe Nautilus. Explore historic sites, Süreyya Opera House, and enjoy walkable paths along the seafront.

Bosphorus Bridge which includes a coastal town, cruising and a river or creek

Beşiktaş

4.5/5(331 area reviews)

Scenic views of the Bosphorus strait and historic sites like Dolmabahçe Palace await in this bustling financial center. Enjoy modern shopping malls, diverse dining options, and easy access to ferries and metro lines for seamless exploration.

Cumhuriyet Anıtı featuring street scenes, a city and a square or plaza

Istanbul City Center

4/5(235 area reviews)

Experience the bustling atmosphere of the beating heart of Istanbul, with its splendid mix of cosmopolitan and historical attractions.

Şişli

4/5(454 area reviews)

Şişli Mosque and Bomontiada are top sights in Şişli, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Sisli Station or Osmanbey Station to see more sights in the area.

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