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Home > 70+ Epic Things To Do In Istanbul, Turkey – Istanbul Travel Blog

70+ Epic Things To Do In Istanbul, Turkey – Istanbul Travel Blog

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Istanbul, Türkiye’s sprawling metropolis, is a city of endless discovery, where every corner offers a new adventure and a unique story. With my annual weeks-long sojourns to this vibrant city, I’ve curated a comprehensive Istanbul guide, revealing over 70 things to do in the city of Istanbul that cater to every interest and passion.

Whether you’re marveling at the grandeur of ancient monuments, sampling exquisite Turkish cuisine, or wandering through bustling bazaars, my local guide ensures you’ll capture the true essence of Istanbul.

Istanbul is a HUGE city. There is far too much to see and do here over the space of just one break, and no matter how much you think you can zip your way around and see the main sights , you’ll still find yourself missing out on several things you had on your list.

This is a city that has more history than perhaps anywhere else in the world. Once part of Greece and known as Constantinople, the Ottoman Empire based itself here for centuries, fighting war after war, battle after battle.

The buildings here are dripping in history, the streets have echoes of the past, and it’s a beautiful blend of old and new that you’ll struggle to find anywhere else on the planet. Of course, Istanbul is also the only city in the world to straddle two continents; half sits in Asia, and the other half in Europe , divided by t he mighty Bosphorus Strait , considered one of the most dangerous shopping lanes in the world, thanks to its endless twists and turns.

If you want to get the most out of Istanbul , you need a plan. It would be best if you also made peace with the fact that there is no way on this Earth you’re going to see everything . Some people visit Istanbul several times a year and haven’t seen everything!

With that in mind, let’s check out sights and experiences you should have on your list of must-dos . If you have extra time (unlikely), you can carry on your exploration.

First, let’s start with a massive, quick list of things you’ll love in Istanbul:

Book yourself one of our favorite Istanbul hotels , and get started on your adventure with these Istanbul tourist attraction ideas:

1. Catch a ferry to see the best views of the city and Bosphorus

2. Visit the Grand Bazaar to find souvenir shops , authentic spices, jewelry, carpets, and more

3. Take a tour of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to appreciate their grandeur

4. Explore the Basilica Cistern for a unique underground experience

5. Visit Spice Market (one of my favorite things to do when I rent an apartment) for amazing aromas and plenty of shopping opportunities

6. Try Turkish coffee for an unforgettable caffeine experience

7. Take in a local show at one of Istanbul’s many theaters or cinemas

8. Stroll along Istiklal Caddesi Avenue for shopping, eating, drinking, music, and more

9. Go to Taksim Square to connect with locals and soak up Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife

10. Spend an evening dining at one of Istanbul’s rooftop restaurants with incredible views

11. Have a picnic in Gülhane Park to take in some nature in the middle of this bustling city

12. Take advantage of Istanbul’s public transportation system for easy access around the city

13. Get up early to watch fishermen selling their catches at Eminönü market near the Galata Bridge

14. Visit the Hippodrome for a taste of Istanbul’s ancient history

15. Take a Bosphorus night boat tour, it is the best way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights light up

16. Check out the Istanbul Modern Art Museum to admire contemporary Turkish art

17. Attend a religious ceremony at one of Istanbul’s many mosques to experience local traditions and culture

18. Explore the Topkapı Palace to learn more about Ottoman rule in Türkiye

19. Visit Sulaimaniye Mosque, one of Istanbul’s oldest and most beautiful buildings

20. Join a guided food tour around Karaköy and Balat to sample some delicious traditional Turkish dishes

21. Hit up the Fındıklı-Karaköy pier for incredible views of both sides of the city across the Bosphorus Strait

22. Take a traditional Turkish bath at one of Istanbul’s historic hammams for an unforgettable experience

23. Ride the nostalgic Funicular from Taksim to Kabataş for a unique way to get around town

24. Try the street food – kokoreç, çiğ köfte and simit are all must-tries

25. Visit one of Istanbul’s many parks , they are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city

26. Explore Istanbul’s backstreets for hidden gems like vintage clothing stores and cozy cafes

27. Check out some of Istanbul’s lesser-known museums, such as The Rahmi M Koç Museum, Pera Museum, and Sakıp Sabancı Museum

28. Watch a Galatasaray football match to soak up some local sports culture

29. Admire the Chora Church, one of Istanbul’s oldest surviving Byzantine churches

30. Visit Eyüp Sultan Mosque, one of the most important Islamic religious sites in Turkey

31. Visit Yedikule fortress for amazing views of the old city walls

32. Enjoy a romantic sunset from Galata Bridge

33. Enjoy a delicious and authentic Turkish breakfast – try poğaça, gözleme, simit, and more!

34. Pass by Galata Tower for some great photo opportunities from the observation deck

35. Eat traditional Turkish ice cream – tastier than ever imagined!

36. Visit the Bebek district for stunning seaside views and an upscale dining experience

37. Experience an Islamic call to prayer at one of Istanbul’s many mosques

38. Check out one of Istanbul’s oldest synagogues, Neve Shalom

39. Go to the Maiden’s Tower for a postcard-perfect view of Istanbul

40. Enjoy a day at Ortaköy market, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs

41. Visit Karaköy Güllüoğlu Baklava shop for some of the best desserts in town

42. Try some delicious seafood at one of the city’s many fish restaurants

43. Take a ferry from Eminönü across the Bosphorus to explore the Asian side

44. Visit Çengelköy village on the Asian side for some fantastic views of Istanbul

45. Shop for unique Turkish rug designs at Cezayir Pasajı near Taksim Square

46. Check out the Balat district for a unique experience in one of Istanbul’s oldest neighborhoods

47. Explore the Beyoğlu neighborhood, home to galleries, best restaurants, and much more

48. Have some fun at Vialand Theme Park – there’s something for everyone!

49. Check out the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, home to some incredible artifacts

50. Spend an afternoon at Dolmabahçe Palace, one of Istanbul’s grandest places

51. Explore the Bosphorus and Golden Horn for fantastic views of the city

52. Visit the Süleymaniye Library for a peek into Istanbul’s rich literary culture

53. Try fresh fish sandwiches from the street stalls in Eminönü

54. Eat lahmacun (Turkish pizza) at one of the local restaurants in the Galata district

55. Browse through the old bookstores at Beyazıt Square for hidden gems and rare finds

56. Browse through Ağa Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most impressive Ottoman mosques

57. Walk along Galata Bridge for some fantastic views of both sides of the city

58. Pick up some authentic spices from one of Istanbul’s spice shops

59. Enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee with friends or family

60. Visit Çamlıca Hill for some great views over the city skyline

61. Visit Rumel ihisarı fortress to learn more about Istanbul’s history

62. Enjoy some live music at one of Istanbul’s many jazz clubs

63. Explore the city on foot – you never know what hidden gems you might find!

64. Go to Princes’ Islands (Adalar) for some picturesque views and great seafood restaurants

65. Take part in an old Ottoman tradition – smoking hookah in one

66. Eat Turkish delight – nom nom

67. Take a walking tour on the Asian side of Istanbul

Now, let’s dive into some of Istanbul’s best activities!

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Feed The Seagulls On The Ferry

The ferry ride between the European and Asian sides (or vice versa) is a rite of passage, but as much fun as the journey is, feeding the seagulls is a major highlight.

They’re huge, plentiful, and hungry! Buy a simit from the small cafe downstairs and break it into pieces, throwing it into the air – they’ll definitely catch it.

Blue Mosque

Sultanahmet is considered the ancient part of Istanbul ; you’ll find many of the significant historical sights here.

The Blue Mosque is iconic and one of the most beautiful buildings you’ll ever set your eyes on. Built in 1609, the mosque has six minarets, while most mosques have 2 or 4. The design inside will take your breath away, for sure.

However, the Blue Mosque is a working mosque and, therefore, a place of worship. This means you need to adhere to mosque etiquette and be respectful of anyone praying inside. Never stand in front of or walk in across anyone praying. Always cover your shoulders and legs, and wear respectful clothes. When going inside, everyone will need to remove their shoes, and women will need to cover their heads .

The mosque is closed during prayer time , and on Fridays, you’ll find this happens more frequently, as this is the Muslim holy day. It’s free to go inside, but donations are always welcome and will go towards the upkeep of this beautiful and incredibly historic building.

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Walk along the promenade in bebek.

Take the bus from Besiktas to Bebek and get off the bus just after Rumeli Fortress. Not only will you be able to take photos of the castle, but you can walk along the waterside promenade for miles; it’s such a scenic walk, and it’s so quiet compared to the hustle and bustle of the city.

You’ll pass by people fishing, drinking coffee, or simply walking hand in hand.

Bebek is the upmarket part of Istanbul, and if you keep walking, you’ll reach Sariyer, another affluent neighborhood where many Turkish TV shows are filmed. There are some great restaurants around here, not to mention many seafood spots to try.

Hagia Sophia

If you visit Blue Mosque, you should head to Hagia Sophia next. Another Istanbul, a must-see landmark in Sultanahmet, is directly opposite and dates back to 537 AD when it was first built as a church.

When the Ottomans took over, they changed Hagia Sophia into a mosque, and nowadays, it stands as a place where both religions sit side by side, with relics and monuments of both shown. The museum is simply stunning and a truly beautiful place to visit .

The only downside is that it can become quite busy, and the queue to get inside can be very long. In addition, there are parts where you can’t use your camera flash, so adhere to signs shown in both English and Turkish.

As of January 15th, 2024, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque has introduced a distinct policy for tourists and worshippers. If you’re visiting for cultural exploration, there’s now a 25 euro entry fee . This ticket grants you access to the gallery floor, where you can admire the sanctuary’s stunning Ottoman and Byzantine features, including the historic mosaics.

This new policy is all about balancing the preservation of this iconic site and enhancing the visitor experience, while ensuring that daily worship remains undisturbed.

Handy QR codes offer insights in 23 languages, making your visit both informative and enjoyable. For the latest updates and details, it’s a good idea to check out their official website . 

Basilica Cistern

If you’re someone who likes weird and wonderful experiences, Basilica Cistern is the one for you! Once inside, you’re actually going under Istanbul’s streets , down to where the main water supply for the royal palace was held. This is one of the oldest sites in Istanbul and dates back to Emperor Justinian’s times during the 6th century Byzantine era.

You’ll see many columns in carefully arranged lines, stones carved in the face of Medusa, and a strange atmosphere that you really won’t be able to get enough of.

Galataport, Karakoy

 Galataport has , in recent years, opened its doors, and it’s a top place to visit. In fact, you should definitely plan to spend at least half a day here, a full day, if you want to enjoy dinner in the evening.

Galataport is a waterside entertainment center that’s expanding by the day. With incredible views over the Bosphorus , thanks to the fact that it’s literally lapping at the center’s shores, you can check out the sunset from here and get some fantastic photographs. Aside from that, there are countless stores, cafes, bars, and restaurants, including a new Salt Bae restaurant from the owner of Nus’ret.

Dolmabahce Palace

If you love opulence, prepare to have your mind blown! Sitting on the banks of the Bosphorus in Dolmabahce/Besiktas, this palace almost bankrupted the Ottoman Empire, thanks to its sheer beauty and intricate design!

You’ll need to pay to go inside, but you are given a guided tour. You’ll learn about the history of the palace, which was the Ottoman Empire’s living quarters towards the end of their rule, the summer holiday spot for many European rulers, and the spot where Mustafa Kemal Ataturk died.

You can’t take your camera inside with you, but you can take photos of the outside and the palace grounds .

Rumeli Fortress

Past Ortakoy and on the road toward Bebek, you will find a huge Rumeli castle. Built to defend Istanbul (then Constantinople) from attacks, this castle is extremely famous and has been the filming site of many movies.

If you look over the Bosphorus toward Asia, you’ll see another castle directly opposite – both built for the same purpose.

A visit to the fortress is a great idea, and as long as you don’t mind walking up steps and hills, the view from the top is a true delight.

Çırağan Sarayı Palace – Ciragan Palace Kempinski

Çırağan Palace is among the prettiest palaces in Istanbul. There are many reasons we recommend you visit this palace; the most interesting reason we recommend a trip to this Istanbul palace is that here you have the opportunity to stay in this palace.

Çırağan Palace allows you to travel in time . This palace was built at a time when every Sultan wanted to live in his own house instead of his parent’s home.

You can experience things that even the Sultan could not experience in this palace, built during Sultan Abdulaziz’s reign. Sultan Suite is ranked 14th on CNN’s list of “The 15 most expensive hotel suites in the world”. It comes then as no shock that Çırağan is the most expensive place for accommodation in Istanbul.

If you don’t want to spend the night here, reserve a spot at one of the four luxury restaurants or grab a drink at one of the bars or pop-up food venues. 

Topkapi Palace

If you want to see how the other half lived, Topkapi Palace in Sultanahmet will make your jaw drop! This was the royal residence of the Ottoman sultans from 1465 and is still in superb condition.

The gardens are simply beautiful, and they are free to go inside, named Gulhane Park. However, the palace itself will cost you to go inside, with the harem costing extra. However, it’s worth it for what you will see, and there are some of the oldest relics in the whole of the Middle East on display here, including shields and armor worn by Ottoman sultans, weapons, and old cooking equipment used by the staff within the palace.

During our visit in the winter of 2023, we found the palace was so huge that we needed a pit stop. So, we stopped at the on-site Topkapi Palace cafe. It was an outstanding place to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while looking out at the beautiful gardens. The cafe has a wide selection of coffees, teas, pastries, and snacks. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable. 

Dripping in gold and offering some stunning views over the Bosphorus, enjoying the Topkapi Palace is an Istanbul must-do!

• Top Palaces In Istanbul & How To Get To Each One

Whirling Dervish

You can watch these captivating ceremonies at many locations throughout Istanbul. This iconic ceremony is a spiritual, meditative dance that has been declared a UNESCO Heritage of Humanity and is one of the best things to do in Istanbul at night, even with kids (over 6-7 years) . My two boys, aged five and ten, sat quietly and enjoyed it.

We saw the Whirling Dervish at the Hodjapasha Dance Theater, which is located in a converted 15th century Turkish bath within walking distance of Sirkeci train station .

During winter, while we visited, performances were held every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday (at 7 pm). Then, beginning in March, daily ceremonies were scheduled.

Though it may look like an art performance of sorts, it is still actually a religious ceremony. I was disappointed they asked us not to take any photos (even without a flash), but I understood why. You also can not talk or leave your seat at all while the Dervishes spin – so make sure the kids go to the restroom (on the lower floor) before the starting time.

• Istanbul Turkey’s Whirling Dervish Shows

Grand Bazaar

Visiting the Grand Bazaar without getting lost is impossible, but that’s half the fun! Dating back to 1461, this is the oldest covered bazaar globally, and it’s an authentic experience and an assault on the senses!

You’ll find hundreds of small stores selling everything you could think of. It’s loud, bright, quite hilarious at times, and a little confusing, but it’s something you have to do to get a real feel of the “old” Istanbul in Sultanahmet/Fetih.

Spice Bazaar

The bustling Spice Bazaar of Istanbul is one of the largest and best-known bazaars in the city, second only after the world-famous Grand Bazaar. This sprawling covered market is in the Eminönü quarter of the Fetih district and dates from 1660, with revenue coming from Egypt .

This is why it is/was also known as the “New Bazaar” or “Egyptian Bazaar.” Since its founding, the Spice Bazaar has been the focal point of Istanbul’s lucrative spice trade. Nowadays, there are still dozens and dozens of shops selling all kinds of spices and herbs, but you can also find things like coffee, sweets, dried fruit and nuts, jewelry, and Turkish souvenirs here.

Spending an afternoon browsing the Istanbul Spice Bazaar is one of the must-do things in Istanbul, particularly if you like cooking and shopping.

Ortakoy Mosque And Bosphorus Bridge

The massive Bosphorus Bridge is quite an impressive and imposing sight on its own, but sitting right next to it is one of the most stunningly beautiful mosques you’ll ever set eyes on. Situated in Ortakoy/Besiktas, it’s a literal old versus new picture, and it’s one that you will no doubt have seen on websites and photos across the world. See if you can snap the famous sight for your own collection.

Down by the waterside at this iconic place in Istanbul are countless cafes , restaurants, and even a Starbucks. You can grab a coffee and sit outside, watching the seagulls circling and the huge ships passing by.

If you want to enter the mosque built in 1856, remember that it is a working mosque, so you need to follow mosque etiquette, as we discussed when we mentioned the Blue Mosque earlier.

If you head into Besiktas and then follow the main road straight, you’ll come to a pretty seaside area called Bebek. This area is very affluent, so you’ll likely see a Turkish celebrity or two with huge houses decorating the hillside. It’s calm and pretty feel around here, a far cry from the center of Taksim or Besiktas on a regular day.

Grab a coffee and walk along the waterside, watching the huge ships pass by almost silently, or sit and enjoy a traditional Turkish cay or even breakfast at one of the many restaurants . This area also has some very high-quality steakhouses and seafood restaurants, but it is certainly not the cheapest area!

You can get the bus down to Bebek from Besiktas or Ortakoy, and it runs quite frequently, although you are likely to get stuck in the famous Istanbul traffic at some point!

Mosque Of Suleyman The Magnificent

While the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are more famous, the Mosque of Suleyman the Magnificent may just be the most beautiful of all mosques in Istanbul . Founded in 1550, this enormous mosque was the largest in Istanbul until 2019, when the Çamlica Mosque surpassed it.

Its bright and shiny interior is absolutely gorgeous, while the exterior boasts the classic dome and four tall minarets at each corner. You can admire this monumental religious building from the outside, but entering is also possible. This majestic mosque is genuinely one of the landmarks you must see in Istanbul, especially if it’s your first visit.

Additionally, don’t miss the Mausoleums of Sultan Suleyman I and his wife, Hurrem Sultan.

• 18 Best Mosques In Istanbul

Tea Overlooking Europe

One of the most popular low-cost activities in Istanbul is to head over to the Asian side and sit on the waterside in Uskudar.

Here, you can buy a glass of Turkish tea (cay) and sit on the cushions, watching the famous sunset over the Golden Horn of Europe. It’s a calming experience showing you this city’s true beauty.

This area is also home to a chill nightlife scene if that’s more your style.

Taksim Square

You can’t visit Istanbul and not go to Taksim Square . This is the busiest part of Istanbul, day and night. Seeing traffic and crowds on the famous Istiklal Street at 3 a.m. is not unusual!

Jump on the famous red tourist tram and make your way down i̇stiklal Caddesi without having to weave your way through the crowds, do some shopping, grab a coffee, eat a delicious meal, go to the cinema, go to a nightclub – the list goes on!

Taksim is a very international part of Istanbul, and you’ll see people here from all over the world . It’s a friendly vibe, for sure, but it’s also a very busy one, so follow your common sense and remember to keep your bag close to you and not flash your valuables. The same goes for any busy city in the world, of course. For more tips, check out our post on scams you may encounter in Istanbul .

• How To Get From Istanbul Airport To Taksim
• Best Hotels In Taksim Square
• Guide To Surviving Taksim With Your Sanity Intact

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul, Türkiye. Standing at a whopping 984 feet (300 meters) tall, it offers breathtaking views of the cityscape below. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and take in the stunning panoramic views. On a clear day, you can even see all the way across the Bosphorus Strait to Asia!

Also known as the Tower of Christ, the Galata Tower is a striking medieval tower in Istanbul’s Karakoy district. It stands just north where the Golden Horn meets the Bosphorus. Built by the Genoese, this magnificent tower was once the highest point in the city walls of Galata, a former Genoese colony in Turkey .

While most of the walls are gone nowadays, the Galata Tower survives. And it is also open to the public every day of the year. A visit to this fantastic view is one of the best things to see and do in Istanbul, Turkey .

Note: Many sites say a cafe/restaurant is on the top floor. During my visit in February 2023, there was no such option.  

Walls Of Constantinople

Another ancient fortification and fascinating place in Istanbul to see are the Walls of Constantinople. These mighty defensive walls were built after Constantine the Great made Constantinople the Roman Empire’s new capital in the 4 th century AD.

The Walls of Constantinople were the last great fortification system constructed during Antiquity. There are still among the grandest and most expansive systems of fortified walls and towers ever built. Once surrounding the city on all sides, both on land and on the shore, the most significant part of the system was the Theodosian Walls, a famous double defensive line.

Although most of this once-imposing system is now gone, sections of it still stand to this day. You can even walk on top of parts of the Istanbul City Walls! This is possible on your own self-guided visit or on guided tours. If you’d like to learn more about the city’s rich and long history, this is one of the best things to do in Istanbul, Türkiye, for you.

Rooftop Dinner Or Drinks

Rooftop bars and restaurants epitomize luxury, sophistication, and panoramic views . These sky-high oases offer a unique dining and drinking experience that elevates any evening to new heights. Whether looking for a romantic date night or a night out with friends , rooftop bars provide the perfect combination of breathtaking views, delicious cocktails, and gourmet cuisine.

Istanbul is home to many fantastic rooftop bars and restaurants, so be sure to add one to your city visit!

• Best Rooftop Bars & Restaurants In Istanbul

Sea taxis are one of the most recent additions to Istanbul’s transportation options. Out of commission for almost a decade, they’re now back in business. You can hire these sea taxis and go anywhere that has a shore.

They can anchor almost everywhere, which eliminates the need for more port space and, in return, provides virtually endless routes. This is a fantastic way to explore the Bosphorus Strait, Marmara Sea, Black Sea , and Golden Horn on your own schedule.

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show

An evening boat trip helps you see Istanbul from a different vantage point, with the glistening lights around you. A dinner cruise and night show is a great way to spend the evening, and you’ll undoubtedly get your money’s worth as you’ll be on board for four hours! During that time, you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner and travel along the Bosphorus, seeing two continents simultaneously.

After dinner, the entertainment begins with belly dancing, whirling dervishes , and folk dancing. You can also dance freely once the entertainment program has finished.

The tour price includes dinner, soft drinks, and limited local drinks; however, you’ll need to pay extra if you want imported drinks. If you stay  in the Sultanahmet and Sirkcei areas, you’ll get a free pick up and drop off.

Find more details and availability of this tour here.

• Shared & Private Bosphorus Cruise Tours
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Discover Colorful Fener & Balat

If you’re looking for a taste of the real Istanbul, away from tourist traps, then head to Balat. Step into this charming bohemian quarter of Istanbul, and you’ll be transported to a world where time seems to have stood still. This historic neighborhood is home to colorful tea houses, vibrant street art, and eclectic galleries that showcase local talent.

From sipping traditional Turkish tea with locals to exploring hidden alleys adorned with captivating murals, there’s no shortage of things to do in Balat. And with its central location on the European side of Istanbul, it’s easy to get to from anywhere in the city.

• Enjoy A Day In Colorful Balat

Eat Turkish Ice Cream

Turkish ice cream is a delicious and refreshing treat that can be enjoyed in Istanbul all year round. This type of ice cream is made with milk, sugar, and starch and often has a thick, creamy consistency.

One of the best places to enjoy Turkish ice cream in Istanbul is at one of the many street carts that can be found throughout the city. These carts generally have a wide selection of flavors to choose from, and the ice cream is usually served in a cone or cup. It is also typically flavored with vanilla, chocolate, or pistachio.

Another fantastic place to savor Turkish ice cream is at one of Istanbul’s many cafes or restaurants . Many of these establishments serve traditional Turkish desserts like baklava, which can be enjoyed alongside a scoop or two of ice cream. What better way to cool down on a hot summer day than by enjoying some delicious Turkish ice cream?

• Beyond Doner Kebabs – Lesser Known Istanbul Street Foods

Turkish Hammam

After a tiring day exploring Istanbul , you should know how to relax and rest your body. There are many options, yet none is as good as visiting the hammams of Istanbul.

Istanbul is home to many famous and historic hammams in the world. These historic bathhouses were once an integral part of daily life in the city and still play a significant role in the city’s culture and history.

The Cağaloğlu Hammam, erected in the 18th century by Ottoman architecture big wig, Mehmet Ağa, is one of Istanbul’s most famous and historic Hammams. This hammam is still in use today and is a must-see for anybody interested in experiencing Istanbul’s traditional culture and heritage.

The Galatasaray Hammam, built in 1481, is another old Hammam in Istanbul still in use. This hammam is well-known for its stunning tilework and elaborates architectural aspects, and it is an excellent choice for a classic Turkish Hamam experience.

In Istanbul, hammams are not merely a place for personal grooming but also a cultural and social activity. Visitors can enjoy the traditional Turkish hammam experience with friends and family.

Gulhane Park

Just behind Topkapi Palace, you’ll find a huge expanse of green and calm. You won’t feel like you’re in a huge city at all, and you can imagine yourself walking around with sultans, just like the Ottomans did back in the day.

I often refer to these gardens as ‘Narnia’ because, with the huge trees and open spaces, that’s exactly how it feels, especially when it has snowed in winter.

Walk up the hill, following the path, and you’ll find a tea garden with a stunning view over the Bosphorus.

Take Photos At Galataport

If you walk along the road from Kabatas to Galata and Karakoy, you’ll find a brand new shopping center and dining area called Galataport. However, this is far more than a mall as it has some of the best views over to the Asian side and over to the Blue Mosque.

Visit at sunset, and your jaw will drop – this is one of the best spots to take photographs.

While you’re here, you can dine, shop, and simply enjoy the ambiance of being directly by the waterside.

Nusr-et in Etiler

Everyone has heard of Salt Bae, either when he crashed the World Cup Final or from his meme with the salt. But have you ever tried one of his steaks? This restaurant is seriously in demand, and while it’s certainly not the cheapest, it’s a must-visit if you can.

The steaks here are huge, and if you want to splash the cash, there’s always the gold leaf steak to try. Alternatively, or perhaps as well as, go for the profiterole tower!

If you want to dine here, you need to book a table well ahead of time and still be prepared to wait. There are countless other people all booked in at the same time, and especially at weekends, the queue can be huge.

Walk Around Yildiz Park, Besiktas

Few people are aware of the sheer number of parks in central Istanbul, and once you’re in one, it’s almost like someone has muted the noise. Yildiz Park is somewhat of a hidden gem on the road between Besiktas and Ortakoy.

Look out for the brown side, which points up the street to your left; walk up the rather steep hill, and you’ll be rewarded with plentiful greenery, cute statues, and a river with ducks to feed.

• Turkish Hammam Tips Before You Go
• The Best Hammam In Istanbul

Is one day in Istanbul enough?

No! Even with a week, you’ll have difficulty fitting everything in. Aim for 3-4 days if your timing allows, knowing you can’t see it all.

What is the best area of Istanbul to stay in for first-time visitors?

Sultanahmet, Karaköy, & Taksim are all near main attractions and have east public transport available.

Do I need to cover my hair in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a relatively liberal city, so you only need to cover your hair at religious sites. Bringing a scarf, or buying one as a souvenir, is a good idea to always have one on hand.

Do they speak English in Istanbul?

Yes, you will find that most people, especially at main tourist sites and hotels, speak English.

These are some of the best experiences and attractions in Istanbul that you have to tick off your list, but the story isn’t finished, as Istanbul still has far more on offer!

• Cool Day Trips From Istanbul
• Relax & Rejuvenate At The Best Spa Hotels In Istanbul
• How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia
• Your Guide To Beyoglu, Istanbul
• Things To Do On The Asian Side Of Istanbul
• The Istanbul Museum Pass
• Guide To Best Places In Turkey To Visit

Comments (5)

After Reading this blog It’s all clear what to visit and what all things to do in Turkey. I have also read a blog where it says top places to get the best pictures, you might also want to consider writing that as another post.

Thank you for the information. Its good to know some important things to do and some special attractions in Istanbul that you must visit once.

thanks for sharing such great infos about Turkey we really helped.

You write a very informative article.

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Katie Nadworny is an Istanbul-based writer who specializes in stories at the intersection of culture and politics in Turkey, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. She has lived in Turkey for nearly a decade and has traveled extensively around the region.

There is nowhere in the world quite like Istanbul. Spread across two continents, Istanbul is a city of layers and contrasts. With historical sights like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace brushing up against buzzing bars and lively cafes, with Ottoman-era mosques a short walk from contemporary art museums and galleries, with traditional carpet shops around the corner from trendy boutiques, Istanbul is a city of old and new coexisting. The city never stops moving.

Istanbul is the cultural capital of the country, with a plethora of independent galleries and inventive restaurants, as well as its transit hub, with flights going all over Turkey and all over the world. Each neighborhood has its own distinct identity and vibe, and it's easy to spend weeks in Istanbul without ever seeing everything. But that is what makes it so fascinating—there will always be something calling you back for more. So order a cup of Turkish coffee and a piece of pistachio baklava, and get ready to delve into this fascinating metropolis.

Turkey's time zone is GMT+3 year-round, and is also called TRT (Turkey Time). Turkey does not do daylight savings.

Best Time to Go

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the perfect times to visit Istanbul, when the weather is bright and mild. During the month of April is the city-wide Tulip Festival, when the parks and green spaces in the city are bedazzled with the colorful bulbs. In the summer, the city becomes sticky and very hot, and most residents flee to the beaches in the south as soon as they can, but the streets are alive all night when the air cools off a little. Winter is gray and rainy, showing Istanbul at its most moody and evocative.

Things to Know

The main language in Istanbul is Turkish, though with a large international presence in the city, don't be surprised to hear chatter in English or Arabic or Farsi as you explore. Turkish people are generally quite helpful, even if you don't speak any Turkish, and shop owners (especially in Sultanahmet, the historic center) will often invite you to sit down and share a çay, a tiny tulip-shaped cup of strong black tea. Personal space is often a luxury in this crowded city, so don't be surprised if you feel someone is standing too close to you as you wait for a bus or in a line—it's normal here.

Don't mistake the water that bisects the city for a river. The Bosphorus Strait connects the Sea of Marmara (and, by extension, the Mediterranean) with the Black Sea, and is therefore a major global shipping route. It's not unusual to see massive container ships floating by your commuter ferry.

While Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, the capital city is actually Ankara, in central Anatolia. But the palaces that dot the Bosphorus, left over from Istanbul's status as the capital of the Ottoman Empire, might make you think otherwise. The politicians might do their business in Ankara, but Istanbul feels like the center of the world.

Currency: Turkish Lira (TL)

(Check the current exchange rate )

Language: Turkish I don't speak Turkish: Türkçe bilmiyorum. I'm lost: Kayboldum Can I have…?: …alabilirmiyim? Where is…?: ... nerede?

Calling Code: +90

Capital City: Ankara

How to Get Around

Intricate interlocking transportations—both official and informal—make it easy to navigate around Istanbul. There are multiple metro lines with clear signage and modern cars that connect to an above-ground tram line and two funiculars. The Marmaray, a cross-continent metro line that passes under the Bosphorus Strait, connects the metro system on the European and Asian sides of the city, and has recently expanded to run all the way into the suburbs on both sides of the city. Otherwise, the best way to cross from Europe to Asia and back is by ferry, with multiple ferry lines running between stations on a regular schedule all throughout the day.

The gaps are filled by city buses, which are paid for by the same IstanbulKart that gets you onto the metro, Marmaray, and ferries. And if there is no bus that runs to your destination, there might be a dolmuş , a yellow van that runs on a fixed route but stops whenever a passenger requests it and leaves whenever the van is full. There are also light blue minibuses that run on various routes throughout the city. Dolmuş and minibuses are paid in cash, with the price depending on the distance you go.

Taxis are plentiful, especially around touristed areas. Apps like BiTaksi can be useful to call taxis directly, and hotels are also usually happy to order a taxi if you can't flag one down.

Best Hotels

Ciragan palace kempinski.

Address: Ciragan Caddesi 32 34349 Istanbul Phone: +90 212 326 4646 Website

Housed in an ornate former Ottoman palace on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait, the Ciragan Palace is the ultimate luxurious hotel in Istanbul. The Ciragan boasts an outdoor infinity pool, an exquisite spa with a Turkish hamam, and high-end restaurants. If you want to experience Istanbul like Ottoman royalty, the Ciragan is the place to do it.

Corinne Hotel

Address: Kuloğlu Mah., Turnacıbaşı Caddesi 41 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 293 94 94 Website

Located in the heart of Beyoğlu, Istanbul's nightlife and entertainment district, the Corinne Hotel is an ideal base to experience the energy of the city. The boutique hotel is in a lovingly restored late-Ottoman neoclassical building, with trendy and contemporary amenities alongside a winding marble staircase. Don't miss out on its rooftop terrace, the perfect place to sip a cocktail and watch Istanbul sparkle below.

Sirkeci Mansion

Address: Taya Hatun Sokak 5 34120 Sirkeci/Istanbul Phone: +90 212 528 43 44 Website

Nestled in the heart of Sultanahmet, Sirkeci Mansion is walking distance from the Hagia Sophia, Gulhane Park, and Topkapi Palace. The hotel contains 32 spacious rooms, a spa, and an on-site restaurant. Relax at the hotel's Turkish hamam, or head up to the hotel's rooftop, with its sweeping views of the old city.

Pera Palace Hotel

Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi 52 34430 Tepebasi/Istanbul Phone: +90 212 377 4000 Website

Modern luxury and Turkish history entwine at the Pera Palace hotel, a grand Art Nouveau beauty that was built for travelers on the Orient Express and over the years has hosted illustrious guests that include Agatha Christie, Ernest Hemingway, and Queen Elizabeth II. The Pera Palace is located close to Istiklal Caddesi, Istanbul's main thoroughfare. The five-star hotel has 115 rooms, multiple restaurants and bars, and a fully-equipped spa and fitness center.

The Bank Hotel

Address: Azapkapı, Bankalar Caddesi 5/1 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 283 00 55 Website

Located in a reappropriated late-Ottoman-era bank in the Karakoy neighborhood, The Bank Hotel is a trendy boutique hotel located between the historic peninsula and the nightlife of Istiklal Caddesi. The eclectic design mixes the modern and the historic bones of the building throughout the hotel's 62 rooms. The restaurant on the rooftop offers splendid views of the city.

Splendid Palace Hotel

Address: Büyükada-nizam, Yirmiüç Nisan Caddesi 39 34970 Adalar/İstanbul Phone: +90 216 382 69 50 Website

This striking hotel on Istanbul's biggest island is full of early Republic charm, somehow both modern and nostalgically vintage. A highlight is the outdoor pool, where it's easy to while away the day in the sunshine. The 60 rooms and 9 suites are bright and breezy, perfect for an island escape in the middle of the city.

Best Restaurants

Address: The Marmara Pera Meşrutiyet Caddesi 15 34430 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 293 5656 Website

The creation of lauded Turkish-Scandinavian chef Mehmet Gurs, Mikla has long had a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Istanbul thanks to its creative twist on traditional cuisine. Located on the roof of the Marmara Pera Hotel, the views are as exquisite as the food. Try the tasting menu to get a sense of the scope of Mikla's creative culinary creations. Reservation is recommended. Indoor and outdoor dining is available.

Ciya Sofrasi

Address: Caferağa Mah. Güneşlibahçe Sokak 43 34710 Kadıköy/Istanbul, Phone: +90 216 330 3190 Website

This unassuming restaurant in the heart of the Kadikoy neighborhood's market street belies its reputation as an Istanbul powerhouse. With cuisine drawn from various regions across Anatolia, especially its diverse southeast region, the menu is constantly shifting and incorporating seasonal produce. In the summertime, try the cherry kebab; in the springtime, don't miss the lamb stewed with erik , Turkish sour plums. Indoor and outdoor dining is available.

Address: Azapkapı, Gümrük Han, Fermeneciler Caddesi 40/A 34420 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 244 97 76 Website

This seemingly ramshackle restaurant comes alive at night, glittering with strings of lights and lanterns. Perched right at the edge of the water in the Karakoy district, this is an evocative place to have the Turkish meyhane experience, with small plates of meze dotting the table and rakı (an anise liquor) flowing all night. Make sure to try the atom , thick yogurt mixed with hot dried peppers, and the catch of the day. Reservation is recommended, especially on weekends, and most dining is outdoors.

Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi 107/F 34430 Beyoglu/Istanbul Phone: +90 212 243 2633 Website

This cozy bistro in the Pera neighborhood, walking distance from Istiklal Caddesi, combines Turkish, Persian, and Middle Eastern influences in its inventive cuisine. Make sure to try the dudi Persian rice speckled with ruby-red barberries. Reservation recommended, only indoor dining.

Things to Do

Hagia sophia.

Address: Ayasofya Meydanı 1 34122 Fatih/İstanbul Phone: +90212 522 17 50 Website

The Hagia Sophia is a building that has held many identities: from a Byzantine church to an Ottoman mosque to a secular museum, and now back to a mosque again. Visitors will need to respect the rules of the mosques in Turkey and dress appropriately , but there is no longer a fee to experience the ultimate palimpsest of a building. While some of the famous mosaics and frescoes are covered, many are still visible.

Topkapi Palace

Address: Cankurtaran Mah. 4122 Fatih/Istanbul Phone: +90 212 512 04 80 Website

Construction on Topkapi Palace began in 1453, when the Ottomans took Constantinople, and was the primary seat of imperial power for nearly four hundred years. The Harem requires an additional ticket, but it's worth it, with its magnificent blue-tiled walls and chambers.

Galata Tower

Address: Bereketzade, Galata kulesi 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 245 4141 Website

Built by the Genoese in the 14th century, Galata Tower is an iconic part of the Istanbul skyline. Climb to the top for some of the best views of the city—especially at sunset.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Address: Süleymaniye Mah, Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Caddesi 1 34116 Fatih/İstanbul Website

Suleymaniye Mosque is considered Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan's most splendid Istanbul mosque, and the architect himself is buried in a tomb on the site. With its intricate tiles, massive dome, and sweeping view of the city from its courtyard, Suleymaniye is a gem among Istanbul's imperial mosques.

Kilic Ali Pasa Hamam

Address: Kemankeş Mah. Hamam Sokak 1 34425 Tophane Karaköy/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 393 80 10 Website

The full hamam , or Turkish bath, experience is particularly luxurious at the Kili Ali Pasa Hamam. Sweat out on a marble slab in the elegantly restored historic building, and get scrubbed squeaky clean.

Best Shopping

Grand bazaar.

Address: Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. 22 34126 Fatih/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 519 12 48

Istanbul's Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, encompassing an entire buzzing hive of artisans and merchants spread across 60 streets and 4000 shops. Come for traditional Turkish carpets, gold and silver jewelry, leather goods, and more—and make sure to sit, share a tea, and haggle.

Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar)

Address: Rüstem Paşa, Erzak Ambarı Sokak 92 34116 Fatih/İstanbul Phone: +90 212 513 65 97

Built in the 17th century, this fragrant covered market brims over with spices, from tangy sumac to smokey urfa pepper to Turkish saffron. Vendors also sell Turkish delight, ceramics, and other non-spice items.

Arasta Bazaar

Address: Kabasakal Caddesi 34122 Fatih/İstanbul

This market street in the heart of the Sultanahmet neighborhood historically housed shops whose rent helped pay for the maintenance of the nearby Blue Mosque. Now, vendors sell hand-woven pestamel (Turkish towels), ceramics, carpets, and more.

Souq Dukkan

Address: Büyükdere Caddesi 185 34330 Şişli/İstanbul Phone: +90 555 030 82 32 Website

Souq Dukkan began as an artisan's bazaar in the trendy Karakoy neighborhood before recently relocating to Kanyon in Levent. Featuring the work of local designers, creators, and artists, Souq Dukkan is the place to find unique Turkish items from some of the city's most creative minds.

Neighborhoods to Know

Sultanahmet : Seemingly every block in this neighborhood has something historical poking out. The central square is dominated by the twinned Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, and the streets hold other imperial Ottoman-era mosques, Byzantine cisterns, and the remains of a hippodrome. This is the main place visitors to Istanbul come, and with good reason—the layered empires that dominated Istanbul have all left their mark right here.

Kadıkӧy : Located on Istanbul's Asian shore, Kadıkӧy is the neighborhood of artists and creatives. Bright colorful murals decorate the walls of buildings, while the streets brim with vibrant bars, sleek third-wave coffee shops, trendy boutiques, and al fresco dining. Kadıkӧy has a long stretch of seaside that is filled on summer nights with locals enjoying a beer at sunset. Only a picturesque ferry ride away from the city center, Kadıkӧy is the neighborhood to visit to see how Istanbul's cool kids live.

Cihangir : This trendy neighborhood, just a few blocks from Taksim Square, is the place to see and be seen. With cutting-edge boutiques, moody bistros, colorful bars slinging cocktails, and stylish cafes, Cihangir has long been the scene where hip Turks and foreigners mingle.

Beşiktaş : Located on the European Bosphorus shore just a short walk from Dolmabahçe Palace, Beşiktaş is a rowdy neighborhood famed for its passionate support of the local football team and its plethora of pubs. Explore the rollicking side streets spilling over with people enjoying the night time energy.

Karakoy : Formerly a forlorn strip of shipping warehouses and camping shops, the Karakoy neighborhood has blossomed in the last decade into a colorful strip of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. One building houses five of Istanbul's premier private galleries, while mere steps away is the splendid Kılıc Ali Paşa Mosque and its luxurious hammam.

Nişantaşı : For luxury and high-end experiences, Istanbul's elite come to upscale Nişantaşı. Here's where you can find haute couture boutiques, luxury brands like Prada and Louis Vuitton, and elegant restaurants. Just nearby is Maçka Park, one of the few parks in central Istanbul and an ideal place to stroll.

The Princes Islands : The Princes Islands, called Adalar in Turkish, are nine islands in the sea of Marmara, with four open to the public. Cars are not allowed on the islands, so it's best to get around by bicycle, by foot, or by horse-drawn carriage. With its charming white wooden houses and lush bougainvillea, the islands are an escape from the city within the city. The four islands (Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Kınalıada) can be reached by regular ferries from the mainland.

Balat : The twinned neighborhoods of Fener and Balat, historically home to large Greek and Jewish populations, are some of the most picturesque in Istanbul, with colorful wooden houses lining hilly cobblestone streets. Balat has erupted in recent years, easily claiming its place as one of Istanbul's most interesting up-and-coming neighborhoods. Explore the antique shops that dot the area or stop at one of the many cafes and new restaurants that line the streets.

Winter: Istanbul winters are gray and constantly rainy, with weather hovering around 45°-50°F. While it's not ideal weather, the city is evocative and somehow cozy, with vendors selling roasted chestnuts on the street corners and steaming tulip-shaped cups of tea on offer at every restaurant.

Spring: In the springtime, the sun comes out and the weather warms up to a comfortable 65°-70°F. Flowers bloom all over the city, from fragrant jasmine to hot pink petals bursting from Judas trees. The early end of spring can still be a little chilly, but everyone still sits outside to soak in the sun.

Summer: The long, sticky, crowded days of Istanbul's summer usually have temperatures around 85°F with 70% humidity. The saving grace is the water that surrounds the city—the breeze off the Bosphorus on a transcontinental ferry ride or a swim in the Sea of Marmara from Istanbul's islands takes the edge off the muggy heat. And the endless summer nights, often spent sitting around a long meyhane table sipping a cold glass of anise-flavored raki , make it all worth it.

Fall: Autumn in Istanbul is warm and comfortable. The humidity comes down, as does the temperature, lingering around a comfortable 65°F in the early autumn and slipping around to 60°F in the later part. This is the best time to come to Istanbul.

Apps to Download

BiTaksi: Local taxi-hailing app iOs | Android

Uber: International taxi-hailing app iOs | Android

Trafi: Live traffic updates iOs | Android

Moovit: Transportation schedule aggregator iOs | Android

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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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Istanbul Travel Tips: 27 Essential things to know before visiting Istanbul

Planning a trip to Istanbul isn’t that straightforward as there are quite a few things you need to know before visiting Istanbul.

You might be wondering whether you need a visa, what are the best places to stay, how to get around the city, how to save money, or what are the common scams to watch out for.

All your questions will be answered in this blog post where I’ll share my top Istanbul travel tips for first-time visitors and things I wished I’d known before visiting.

So without further ado, here are 27 essential travel tips for Istanbul.

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support :)

Read more about Turkey:

• How to spend 4 days in Istanbul
• Top 20 free attractions in Istanbul
• 16 Best photography spots in Istanbul
• How to spend 7 days in Turkey
• Best ways to get from Istanbul to Ephesus
• How to book a Turkey car rental

Table of Contents

Istanbul Travel Tips for planning your trip

1. you need at least 3 or 4 days in istanbul.

Istanbul is a huge city with so many things to do. This is why you need a minimum of 3 or 4 days for a proper introduction to the city and to hit all the main tourist attractions.

If you need help planning your itinerary, make sure to read my guide on how to spend 4 days in Istanbul .

Related post: Istanbul itinerary for 4 days

2. Book your hotel in advance

One of the most important Istanbul travel tips is to book your hotel in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak season (June to August).

Most of the nicer hotels are usually sold out several weeks or even months in advance. Booking in advance also means that you’ll benefit from cheaper rates.

Some of the best places to stay in Istanbul include Tomtom Suites , World House Boutique Hotel , and Hostel Le Banc .

3. Booking.com is banned in Turkey

If you use booking.com to book your accommodation, I highly recommend doing so before you land in the country since it’s banned in Turkey.

Although you can still access the website to manage your bookings, you won’t be able to book a Turkish hotel while you’re in Turkey.

If you want to book hotels on booking.com while you’re in Turkey, I recommend getting a VPN. Alternatively, you can download the Opera browser on your phone and use their free integrated VPN.

4. Stay outside of Sultanahmet if you want a quiet night’s sleep

Sultanahmet is the most popular place to stay in Istanbul since this is where all the main tourist attractions are located.

But what you probably don’t know is that it can be very loud at night and also quite expensive compared to other neighborhoods.

I learned this the hard way during my recent trip to Istanbul. The hotel I initially stayed at was located along a street flanked by rows of restaurants that kept playing music until 2 a.m!

If you absolutely want to stay in Sultanahmet, Camelot Apartment is located on a rather quiet street, not too far from the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

Otherwise, I recommend staying in either Beyoglu or Karakoy if you want some peace and quiet.

5. You probably need a visa to visit Turkey

One of the most important travel tips for Istanbul is to check whether you need a visa or not. You can do so on the official website here .

There are also third-party websites where you can apply for a visa but these are usually more expensive as they charge an additional fee on top of the visa fee.

Most travelers, including US citizens, need to apply for an e-visa. The visa is valid for a period of 30 to 90 days, depending on your nationality.

UK citizens, for example, are exempt from a visa while others can get a visa for free.

When applying for an e-visa on the official website , click on “new application” and then select your country.

The cost of the e-visa and duration of stay will depend on the country you’re from.

After completing the application process, it can take a few minutes up to 24 hours before the visa is sent by email.

6. When to visit Istanbul

The best time to visit Istanbul will depend on what you want out of your trip. Below is a quick overview of the different seasons and what to expect for each.

Spring :  April to May – Mild temperature, fewer crowds, and cheaper prices. The annual tulip festival takes place in April.

Summer : June to August – Very hot and humid with temperatures rising above 30 degrees Celsius. Huge crowds, hotel and tour prices are much higher.

Fall/autumn : September to November – The temperature starts to drop, fewer crowds, and cheaper hotel rates.

Winter : December to March – Cold weather with the occasional snowfall but it’s considerably less cold than other European destinations.

Istanbul Travel Tips to skip the crowds

7. buy the istanbul museum pass.

The Istanbul Museum Pass gives you access to 10 museums in Istanbul like the Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene, Istanbul Archeological museum, and more.

The pass is valid for 5 consecutive days and is perfect for those who want to visit a lot of museums, and at the same time, skip the long ticket lines.

Another option is to buy an Istanbul E-Pass which includes skip-the-line tickets and guided tours for over 40 attractions in Istanbul. The pass is available for 2, 3, 5, or 7 days and is perfect for those who want to see as many attractions as possible while saving money.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE ISTANBUL E-PASS

Note : I only recommend buying the museum pass under certain circumstances. For instance, if you’re planning to visit 5 museums and the total cost of the individual tickets exceeds the cost of the museum pass, then it makes more sense to get the museum pass.

Otherwise, if you’re visiting one or two museums only, you’re better off buying individual tickets. Just remember that the pass can only be used once at each attraction.

8. Buy attraction tickets online

For those who don’t plan to purchase the Istanbul Museum Pass or Istanbul E-Pass but still want to avoid the long ticket lines, then I recommend booking your attraction tickets online.

You can book tickets to most museums and attractions on the Government website here .

9. Plan your visit outside of the peak season

The peak season in Istanbul, and Turkey in general, is during the summer months of June to August and thus attracts hordes of tourists.

Popular attractions like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are absolutely packed with tourists during this time of the year.

If you can only come to Istanbul during the peak season, I highly recommend visiting these attractions early in the morning, at least before 8 a.m to avoid the long lines.

As more tourists visit Istanbul in summer, hotel rates also increase considerably as well as tour prices.

Another thing to note is that there are also more crowds during popular Turkish holidays like Kurban Bayrami and Ramadan Bayrami. The date changes every year so make sure to do a quick Google search before your trip.

So, if you want to avoid the crowds and get cheaper prices, I recommend visiting during the shoulder season – April/May or September/October.

Istanbul Travel Tips for getting around

10. the bus is the best and cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center.

Istanbul has two airports – Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.

One of the best Istanbul tips for tourists, more specifically for those traveling on a budget, is to take the Havaist bus (from Istanbul Airport) or Havabus (from Sabiha Gokcen Airport).

It’s definitely the best and cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center. Plus, the buses are very spacious and comfortable.

The bus operates 24/7 and the journey from the airport to the city center takes on average 1-2 hours, depending on where you’re staying. You can buy tickets online or directly at the airport.

If you don’t want to take the bus or are traveling with a group, then I recommend booking a private airport transfer .

11. Download apps like BiTaksi or Uber

If you don’t want to take the bus, be sure to download ride-sharing apps like Uber or BiTaksi. The fares will be much cheaper than regular taxis, plus you can see beforehand how much the journey costs, thus avoiding getting ripped off.

12. Buy an Istanbul Kart

If you’re planning to get around a lot by public transportation, it’s a good idea to buy an Istanbul kart. It costs about 60 TL and you can top up with the amount needed.

The main reason why I recommend getting the Istanbul kart is that the fares are much cheaper with the card (about 50% cheaper) compared to buying a single ticket. You’ll also save time by not having to buy tickets every single time.

A single fare with the Istanbul Kart costs about 10 TL and the good news is that the fare gets cheaper the more you use the card.

The card can be used by up to 5 people, so there’s no need to buy individual cards for each traveler in your group.

You can buy the Istanbul kart at the airport or at most metro stations in the city center and use it on the bus, metro, tram, and ferry.

Alternatively, you can buy this Istanbul transport card that’s pre-loaded with up to 20 rides. You can either pick it up at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel.

Another thing to know before visiting Istanbul is that you can also use the Istanbul Kart to pay for public toilets around the city and inside the metro stations. The toilet fee is about 2 TL.

13. Traffic in Istanbul can be very hectic

One thing to know about Istanbul is that the traffic can be very hectic. One of the most important travel tips for Istanbul is to avoid taking the bus during peak hours, especially in the afternoon.

For instance, I once took the bus at around 5 p.m from Ortakoy to Beyoglu, and what was supposed to be a 40-minute journey ended up lasting 1.5 hours!

The traffic was so bad that I even had to get off the bus and walk back to my hotel. I’m pretty sure I arrived before the bus!

So do yourself a favor by taking the metro instead if you don’t want to get stuck in traffic during peak hours.

14. Don’t rent a car in Istanbul

As mentioned above, traffic can be very hectic which is why it’s not recommended to rent a car in Istanbul unless you plan to leave the city and start a road trip around the country.

Public transportation in Istanbul is cheap, convenient, and reliable so there’s no point in spending extra cash on car rental.

Istanbul Travel Tips to help you save money

15. there are many free things to do in istanbul.

For those traveling on a budget, you’ll be pleased to know that there are many free things to do in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and all other Istanbul mosques are completely free to visit.

Visiting the Grand Bazaar (which is an experience in itself) or exploring the local neighborhoods like Balat, Fener, and Kadikoy also doesn’t cost a cent.

Make sure to read my guide to 20 things to do in Istanbul for free for more things to do.

Related post: What to do in Istanbul for free

16. Take the local ferry instead of a Bosphorus tour

One of the most popular things to do is to take a Bosphorus tour. It costs anywhere from €10 for a 90-minute sightseeing tour up to €55 for a luxury sunset cruise including dinner .

But if you’re on a budget, you can just hop on the local ferry from Europe to Asia. A single ticket costs only about 10 TL which is a bargain.

One thing to note is that the ferry ride will be shorter but you’ll still be able to admire some of the major landmarks in the city.

17. You can use toilets at the mosques for free

If you need to use the toilet, you can simply go to any mosque and use the toilets there for free. They are generally well-maintained and clean.

Otherwise, you can use the public toilets at the metro stations or around the city for about 2 TL. As mentioned above, you can pay the toilet fee with your Istanbul Kart if you don’t have any small change.

Travel Tips for Istanbul for a safe trip

18. take note of emergency phone numbers.

Travel is sometimes unpredictable which is why it’s always a good idea to have local emergency phone numbers on hand. Below are some of the most important ones:

Police: 155

Ambulance: 112

19. Safety in Istanbul

Istanbul is a relatively safe destination even for solo female travelers. I traveled to Istanbul solo and from my personal experience, I didn’t feel unsafe while walking alone nor did I receive any unwanted attention.

Security is pretty tight with lots of police officers especially around Sultanahmet and Taksim so you don’t have to worry about safety issues.

That said, petty crimes like pickpocketing sometimes happen, so always be aware of your surroundings and avoid flashing any expensive objects.

You should also watch out for scams which brings me to my next tip for visiting Istanbul.

20. Watch out for common scams

Like in most big cities, you need to be aware of common scams that mainly target tourists.

The most popular one is the shoe shiner. The person will pretend to drop his brush and when you pick it up, he will then proceed to shine your shoes which obviously isn’t free.

There’s also another scam where someone will approach you and invite you for a drink. You’ll then end up being forced to pay an exorbitant bill.

In order to prepare yourself before your trip, I recommend reading  this article  about the most common scams in Istanbul.

Other Helpful Istanbul Tips for Tourists

21. buy a local sim card.

The best way to stay connected, especially if you need to use Google Maps to navigate the city, is to buy a local sim card.

There are three major internet providers in Turkey, namely Turkcell, Vodafone, and Turk Telekom. All three are quite similar but it is said that Turkcell has the best coverage.

I recommend buying your sim card when you get to the city center since those at the airport are slightly more expensive.

I bought a Turkcell tourist sim card which came with 20 GB of data and 200 minutes of local call, valid for 30 days. You just need to bring your passport and it takes only a few minutes for the sim card to be activated.

Alternatively, you can buy a pocket wifi (with unlimited internet valid for 14 days) and have it delivered directly to your hotel. It’s slightly more expensive but can connect up to 10 mobile phones at a time.

Note : If you need internet as soon as you land in Turkey, you can use the airport wifi for free. Just input your local phone number and after receiving a one-time password, you’ll be able to connect to the wifi.

22. There are lots of steep hills

One thing to know about Istanbul is that it’s also known as the “City on the Seven Hills” so don’t be surprised if you come across a lot of steep hills.

The streets along Beyoglu, Balat, and Galata Tower are among the steepest in Istanbul and you’ll be sweating buckets if you’re not dressed in light clothing. Make sure to also carry plenty of water and to wear comfy shoes.

23. Mosque Etiquette

Although you can wear any type of clothes you like in Türkiye, you need to dress more conservatively when visiting the mosques.

For women, this means covering their shoulders and knees and wearing a head scarf. Men, on the other hand, need to wear long pants.

You also need to take off your shoes before entering the mosques.

24. Check prayer times before visiting mosques

One thing to know before visiting Istanbul is that you can only visit the mosques outside of prayer times. Make sure to check the prayer times on this website before visiting.

25. Learn some basic Turkish words

Although most Turkish people can speak English, I always do my best to learn a few basic words and phrases in the local language when traveling to a new country.

A little goes a long way and I can guarantee that you’ll put a smile on the Turkish people’s faces if you at least try to speak a few words in the local language.

Below are some useful Turkish words to know:

Hello : Merhaba

Thank you : Teşekkür ederim or Teşekkürler

Please : Lütfen

Excuse me : Afedersiniz (I’ve also heard people say “pardon”)

How much : Ne kadar

26. Drinking tap water in Istanbul

Although it’s considered safe to drink tap water in Istanbul, most locals might tell you the opposite due to the old rusty pipes and water tanks.

I did drink the tap water during my first few days in Istanbul and while it didn’t make me sick, I didn’t really like the taste.

If you don’t want to drink tap water, I recommend buying the 5 L water bottles. They are much cheaper and you can also reduce your plastic consumption since you won’t need to buy multiple water bottles.

27. Plug type

The plugs and sockets in Turkey are of type C and F with a voltage of 220 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. You’ll probably need a travel adapter if you’re coming from a non-European country.

There you have it – 27 important things to know before traveling to Istanbul. If you have any additional Istanbul travel tips to share, please comment below.

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Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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Istanbul   Travel Guide

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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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Three Days In Istanbul

By Ashlea Halpern

Since 2015, tourism in Turkey has been roiled by a failed military coup, devastating terrorist attacks, grim travel advisories from the U.S. State Department (see also: Is It Safe to Visit Istanbul Right Now? ), and a two-year state of emergency that was only lifted in mid-July. Despite those deterrents, travelers are slowly returning. Phase I of the ambitious Istanbul New Airport soft-opened in late October; when it’s completed in 2020, it’ll be the largest transit hub in the world , serving 200 million passengers a year, accommodating 250 different airlines, and costing a pretty $12 billion USD. Flagship carrier Turkish Airlines , meanwhile, is ramping up its business class offerings while continuing to slash fares for economy travelers. An enticing stopover program , with vouchers for four- and five-star hotels, makes it easier than ever to spend a few nights in Istanbul en route to myriad destinations throughout Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This is good news for travelers intrigued by Turkey’s deep history, rich multiculturalism, unparalleled shopping, and mouthwatering food. Here’s how to make the most of an extended layover in the country’s most dynamic and addictive city.

Checking In

The grand Pooh-Bah of the Istanbul hotel scene is the opulent Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul . From the moment you pass under its ornately carved arches and see the autographed photos of celebrities, prime ministers, and sheiks who’ve stayed here over the years, you know you’re in for the royal treatment. The hotel has 313 rooms, including 11 sumptuous palace suites, plus an opulent pool overlooking the Bosphorus Strait. Breakfasts are fit for a king, outdone in decadence only by the pasha-worthy spa treatments available in the hotel’s beautiful marbled hammam. (You haven’t truly experienced Turkey until you’ve stripped down to your birthday suit and paid a stranger to lather you up in luxurious olive-oil soap, and then scour away your dead skin with a textured mitt. It hurts so good.)

For a more laid-back experience, book yourself one of 18 rooms at Witt Istanbul Suites , a boutique hotel in the trendy Cihangir neighborhood of Beyoǧlu. Contemporary rooms are done up with sleek leather sofas, wall-to-wall mirrored tile, and gleaming kitchenettes carved from Marmara marble. It’s the little touches here that really count: the helpful concierge desk, the fresh-baked fig cookies left under bell jars by housekeeping, bathrooms kitted out with Molton Brown toiletries, and Juliette balconies offering sweeping views of Galata Tower and the Golden Horn.

A view of the Blue Mosque from the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul's old city.

Day 1: Historic Istanbul, With Hip Boutiques and a Jazz Closer

Start early with a hearty breakfast at Van Kahvaltı Evi in Cihangir. A traditional Turkish spread includes a selection of salty white cheeses, hard-boiled eggs, muhammara (an addictive red pepper-and-walnut spread), bal-kaymak (delicious clotted cream with honey), and a basket of warm bread that the waiters will keep refilling despite your protests. Consider it fuel for the sightseeing to come.

First stop: Topkapı Palace , a.k.a. the Seraglio, a 15th-century Ottoman palace and municipal complex that served as the heart of the empire for 380 years. Royal gardens, peeling frescoes, and tiled mosaics are breathtaking in their beauty, but the zenith of any visit is a wander through the sultan’s harem, once home to hundreds of concubines and their eunuch guards. If you’re intrigued by castle drama— The Real Housewives of Constantinople , joked one friend—then rent an English-language audio guide at the entrance. (To save yourself additional time and money, buy an Istanbul Museum Pass before your visit. The five-day tourist card charges a flat rate—125 lira or about $30—for access to a dozen of the city’s most popular cultural institutions, including Topkapı Palace , Hagia Sophia , and the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts .)

Next, head down to Sultanahmet Square for an up-close look at traces of the Byzantine-era Hippodrome of Constantinople ; the majestic Hagia Sophia , a Greek-Orthodox church built by Emperor Justinian circa 537 AD, converted into a mosque by Sultan Mehmet II in 1453, and declared a museum in 1934 by the republic of Turkey’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk; and the 402-year-old Blue Mosque , which earned its nickname thanks to the dreamy Iznik tiles that cover its walls. The latter reopened to tourists in May, following a two-month renovation, but it remains closed to non-Islamic worshippers during each of the five daily calls to prayer. For the best experience, avoid visiting on Fridays or within a half hour after the ezan is chanted from the minarets.

For a more in-depth look at Istanbul’s key attractions, consider hiring an English-language guide from Condé Nast Traveler travel specialist Sea Song . The luxury tour company was founded 17 years ago by American transplant Karen Fedorko Sefer; full-time guides like Istanbul native Anka Benli cobble together seamless itineraries offering behind-the-scenes access and invaluable commentary. Benli can point out unique features the average tourist would miss—like the tortured faces of devils swirled into the green marble at Hagia Sophia. Sea Song can also arrange a languorous yacht cruise on the Bosphorus, stopping for a traditional grilled seafood lunch and tumblers of bracing rakı at the wood-paneled Ismet Baba Restaurant in Kuzguncuk. (Order the turbot if it’s season, or else the sea bass in lemon sauce with bonito and fava paste.)

Come late afternoon, carve out some time to explore two adjacent neighborhoods: Karaköy and Galata . The former is a historic harbor district dotted with small galleries, cute coffeehouses, gritty street art, and hip boutiques. Hit up Bey Karaköy for Everlane-style minimalist menswear and cool-girl concept shop Mae Zae for handmade ceramics and funky wood and leather jewelry.

The next neighborhood over is Galata, a Genoese colony back in the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Twisting cobblestone streets give this quarter a charming European air, but avoid the overpriced restaurants clustered around the famed Galata Tower . Instead, head to Salt Galata , an Ottoman bank turned multi-use space: Under one architecturally pleasing roof you’ll find a tightly edited bookstore ( Robinson Crusoe 389 ), communal café, and research library stuffed with books about art, graphic design, and Turkish culture. The shopping continues along design-forward Serdar-ı Ekrem street; look for kilim throw pillows and olive-wood serving trays at housewares shop Çiçek Işleri , and shearling-trimmed denim jackets and rose-tinted sunglasses at Baston Vintage .

With even an ounce of energy remaining, close out the night with a bucket of lemony, rice-stuffed mussels from the wildly popular Midyelerin Efendisi in Beşiktaş and a drink at the atmospheric Nardis Jazz Club in Cihangir . The latter books a mix of local and international acts, like a quintet led by Ankara-born jazz vocalist and Fulbright scholar Ece Göksu.

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At the Egyptian Bazaar, or Spice Market, you'll find row after row of vendors selling Turkish spices, coffee, and more.

Day 2: An Underrated Mosque, a Grand Bazaar, and an Unusual Museum

While not as ornate as the Blue Mosque, Süleymaniye Mosque is just as impressive—and noticeably less touristy. It’s the second-largest imperial mosque in the city, built atop the third hill of Old Istanbul in the 16th century, by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan at the behest of Suleiman the Magnificent. On a clear day, the views from the courtyard are unbeatable. Don’t miss the cemetery, either, where the carvings atop each tombstone indicate that person’s station in life (a fez headdress was reserved for government officials, a turban for someone of the religious order, an anchor for a seaman, and so on). For a late breakfast or early lunch, meander over to Mimar Sinan , one of several nearby restaurants specializing in kuru fasülye , white beans stewed in olive oil and tomato sauce and served with rice pilaf. It’s Turkey’s unofficial national dish, and especially popular with lira-pinching students.

Now on to the world-famous Grand Bazaar , one of the oldest and largest covered markets on earth. Twenty-two gates usher you into a labyrinth of 4,500 stores; you’ll definitely get lost, and that’s okay—it’s how you stumble upon happy mistakes like hammered-copper serving trays, hand-tooled leather bags, and glittering zultanite rings. Or you can go in with a game plan, knocking out a list of covetable souvenirs from established shops like Dervis (good for pastel-striped peştemals ), Soy Türkiye (for professional-grade copper cookware), Iznik Art (for çini , a traditional Turkish pottery in bold turquoise and red tulip motifs), and Yazzma (ikat central). If it’s a hand-knotted silk rug you’re after, venture out of the bazaar and over to Orient Handmade Carpets , a spectacular showroom run by a fifth-generation Anatolian family. Here, more than 14,000 carpets are spread across 27 rooms. Be prepared to invest, as this level of quality does not come cheap.

One more market to go, and that’s Mısır Çarşısı , a.k.a. the Egyptian Bazaar or Spice Market. It’s a wonderful place to photograph centuries-old architecture, rows of Turkish delight vendors, and pyramids of fragrant spices. Pick up potent vials of amber and rose oil at 72-year-old perfumery Istanbuli ; and don’t forget to buy a bag of freshly ground Turkish coffee from Kurukahveci Mehmetv Efendi , one of the oldest coffee shops in Istanbul.

If you’re not totally wiped out, it’s worth a spin through the antiques district of Çukurcuma in Beyoǧlu . Here you’ll find quality dealers like A La Turca , although one of the most curious stores is The Works Objects of Desire (tagline: “For the slightly deranged collector seeking identifiable memories”). The cluttered bric-a-brac shop provides artifacts for the conceptual vignettes displayed in the nearby Museum of Innocence , based on the namesake novel by Nobel Prize–winning Turkish author Orhan Pamuk (who also happened to live in the house before it was converted into a museum). Fans of the book, as well as of Joseph Cornell–esque assemblages, will appreciate both the store and the museum. Don’t be surprised if you walk away with a 70-year-old dental mold or vintage police badge from the former.

Final stop: Dinner at Çukurcuma Köftecisi , a mom-and-pop meatball shop with just six tables and enough tempting cold meze dishes that you may forget to leave room for the köfte.

Menemen, lightly set eggs with salty feta, tomato, chilis, and ample olive oil.

Day 3: The Food Crawl to End All Food Crawls

If you do just one walking tour in Istanbul, design it around your stomach. The food walks organized by Culinary Backstreets cover so much more than eating, though that’s clearly the highlight. The company offers eight food-centric tours, diving deep on everything from kebabs to rakı. Born on the Bosphorus is one of the best, traversing three waterside neighborhoods: liberal, sectarian Beşiktaş ; conservative Üsküdar on the Asian side of the river; and historically multicultural Kuzguncuk , once settled by Jews, then Greek-Orthodox and Armenian Christians, and now Muslims. You’ll sample menemen (lightly set eggs scrambled with salty feta, tomato, chilis, and a bucket of olive oil) at Çakmak Kahvaltı Salonu ; tavuk göğsü (savory milk pudding made with chicken skin) at Murat Muhallebicisi ; pickled everything at Üsküdarlı Ünal Turşuları , and a real grandma’s made-from-scratch manti (tiny dumplings served in a pool of chili butter) at the family-run Hatice Anne Ev Yemekleri .

There are opportunities to buy chestnut honey, fresh figs as big as a toddler’s fist, and boxes of rainbow-colored Turkish delight. You’ll eat yourself silly, but you’ll also tour churches and mosques, swing through a seafood market where the stands are manned by bearded fishermen in galoshes, visit a cat-mobbed cemetery where whirling dervishes are buried, and meet Istanbul’s last great umbrella repairman (he’s a hoot!). The tour lasts anywhere from six to nine hours, depending on your group’s endurance level, and covers well over a dozen eateries. (If he’s available, ask for Benoit to be your guide; you won’t be disappointed.) The day out is a feast for the eyes and stomach, and you’ll be positively stuffed by nightfall. It’s the most satisfying way to end an all-too-short adventure in one of the world’s most fascinating and diverse cities.

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ISTANBUL TRAVEL GUIDE Kindle Edition

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• Publication date May 26, 2024
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CYN8JFF5
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 26, 2024
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