Istanbul Travel Guide: Top Things to Do

Istanbul is more than just a city; it is the nexus of centuries, empires, and continents. As you stroll through its streets, you’ll notice how the past and present are entwined: ancient markets resonating with contemporary life, minarets mirrored by cranes, and domes next to rooftops.

No matter how many times you visit, this city never fails to surprise you. This list of the best things to do in Istanbul includes both well-known sites and hidden treasures, along with helpful advice on how to fully explore each.

1. Start in Sultanahmet — The Historic Core

The majority of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks are located here. Three top-notch historical sites are within a short stroll:

Hagia Sophia — a 1,500-year-old architectural marvel that has served as both church and mosque.
Blue Mosque — known for its six minarets and intricate blue tiles.
Topkapi Palace — the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans, with incredible views over the Bosphorus.

2. Wander the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is a tangle of color, scent, and sound, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets to gold, lanterns to ceramics. A short walk away is the Spice Bazaar, which offers a more fragrant experience with its numerous stalls selling dried fruits, saffron, sumac, and herbal teas.

3. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

The Bosphorus is more than just a body of water; it is the actual and symbolic barrier separating Asia and Europe. One of the greatest ways to understand the city’s geography and get a fresh look at its skyline is to go on a boat cruise.

You’ll glide past peaceful fishing communities, palaces, mosques, and yalı mansions. Cruises are available at all hours, but the call to prayer reverberating over the hills at sunset is particularly breathtaking.

4. Eat Like a Local

Every meal, from sophisticated dinners to street snacks, narrates a local tale. To eat well, you don’t have to reserve a fancy restaurant; some of the greatest food can be found on street corners or in small lokantas.

Must-try bites:

Simit (sesame-crusted bread rings) from street carts
Köfte (grilled meatballs) with pickled peppers
Balık ekmek (fish sandwich) at the Eminönü docks
Meze platters with raki at traditional taverns
Baklava and strong Turkish tea at a quiet patisserie

Some private tour companies like istanbultours.com provide food-focused routes through local neighborhoods for those interested in culinary heritage. This is an immersive way to learn about the city’s culture through its flavors.

5. Cross to the Asian Side

The Asian side of Istanbul has a unique, local feel that is worth experiencing, but most tourists spend most of their time on the European side.

Kadıköy is young, energetic, and full of art, bookstores, and cafes. The food market here is one of the best in the city.
Üsküdar offers a more traditional atmosphere, with historic mosques and a serene waterfront walk.

You can see the skyline and escape the tourist crowds by taking a short ferry ride across the Bosphorus.

6. Venture into Local Neighborhoods

You must venture outside of the popular tourist destinations if you want to truly comprehend Istanbul. The city is a patchwork of distinct micro-neighborhoods.

Balat and Fener: Colorful, historic areas known for their old houses, churches, and creative spaces.
Cihangir: A bohemian district filled with rooftop cafes, antique shops, and artists.
Galata: Home to the iconic Galata Tower and winding alleys full of charm.

You can get a sense of Istanbul life by walking around these neighborhoods. Off-the-beaten-path routes through these places are included in some tour packages, such as the one this company offers, and offer context and stories that are otherwise easy to overlook.

7. Relax in a Turkish Hammam

A traditional Turkish bath is one of the most fulfilling things to do after a long day of walking. Some of the nation’s most exquisite and historic hammams can be found in Istanbul.

Çemberlitaş Hammam, designed by Mimar Sinan, offers a classic experience in a 16th-century building.
Süleymaniye Hammam is another traveler-friendly option, complete with scrubs and massages.
Kılıç Ali Paşa Hammam is a high-end, beautifully restored space that blends tradition with comfort.

They are the ideal midday or evening treat because many are close to important locations.