Istanbul is a city with an incredible depth of history, culture, and experiences! Here are 50 things you can do while you’re there, blending iconic sights with local experiences:
Historic & Cultural Icons:
- Marvel at Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya): Witness the breathtaking architecture of this former church, then mosque, now mosque again – a true symbol of Istanbul.
- Visit the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): Admire its stunning İznik tiles and impressive domes. (Dress respectfully).
- Explore Topkapi Palace: Wander through the opulent courtyards and rooms of the Ottoman Sultans, including the Harem.
- Descend into the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı): Discover this mystical underground water reservoir with its Medusa heads.
- Walk through the Hippodrome: Imagine ancient chariot races at this historic square, now home to obelisks and columns.
- Visit Süleymaniye Mosque: Admire Mimar Sinan’s masterpiece, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
- Discover the Chora Church (Kariye Camii/Museum): (Check current status) Famous for its incredible Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.
- Explore Dolmabahçe Palace: Witness the lavish European-style palace of the later Ottoman Sultans.
- Wander through the Walls of Constantinople: See sections of the ancient land walls that once protected the city.
- Visit Rüstem Pasha Mosque: A smaller, hidden gem near the Spice Bazaar, famed for its exquisite İznik tiles.
- Explore the Istanbul Archaeological Museums: A complex of three museums housing vast collections.
- See the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum: Located in the former palace of Ibrahim Pasha, opposite the Blue Mosque.
Bazaars & Shopping:
- Get Lost in the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı): Navigate its labyrinthine alleys filled with shops selling everything from carpets to ceramics.
- Experience the Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı): Indulge your senses with exotic spices, teas, Turkish delight, and more.
- Shop for Antiques in Çukurcuma: Explore the charming streets known for antique shops and quirky finds.
- Browse the Book Market (Sahaflar Çarşısı): A historic market for new and second-hand books near the Grand Bazaar.
Bosphorus & Waterways:
- Take a Bosphorus Cruise: Essential for seeing the city’s skyline, palaces, and fortresses from the water.
- Walk Across the Galata Bridge: Watch fishermen, enjoy views, and perhaps grab a fish sandwich below.
- Take a Ferry to the Asian Side (Kadıköy or Üsküdar): Experience a different vibe and local life.
- Visit Ortaköy Mosque & Square: Enjoy the iconic view of the mosque against the Bosphorus Bridge, and try a kumpir (baked potato).
- Explore Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisarı): A massive Ottoman fortress on the European shores of the Bosphorus.
Neighborhoods & Local Life:
- Stroll Down Istiklal Avenue: Istanbul’s bustling pedestrian street, full of shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
- Ride the Historic Red Tram on Istiklal: A nostalgic journey down the famous avenue.
- Climb Galata Tower: Get panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the old city.
- Explore the Colorful Streets of Balat & Fener: Wander through these historic Greek Orthodox and Jewish quarters with their charming houses.
- Relax in Gülhane Park: A beautiful, historic park once part of Topkapi Palace’s outer gardens.
- Discover Karaköy’s Trendy Cafes & Galleries: A rapidly evolving neighborhood with a cool, artsy vibe.
- Experience Kadıköy Market (Asian Side): A vibrant market full of fresh produce, fish, pickles, and local eateries.
- Walk Along Bağdat Avenue (Asian Side): A long, upscale shopping street with many cafes and restaurants.
- Visit Pierre Loti Hill: Take a cable car up for stunning views of the Golden Horn, and enjoy a Turkish coffee.
- Explore Bebek or Arnavutköy: Chic Bosphorus villages perfect for a waterside stroll and coffee.
Food & Drink Experiences:
- Indulge in a Traditional Turkish Breakfast (Serpme Kahvaltı): A feast of cheeses, olives, breads, honey, jams, eggs, and more.
- Drink Turkish Coffee & Get Your Fortune Told: A cultural ritual.
- Sip Turkish Tea (Çay) in a Tulip-Shaped Glass: The ubiquitous national drink.
- Try Rakı with Mezes at a Meyhane: Experience a traditional Turkish tavern evening.
- Eat Balık Ekmek (Fish Sandwich) in Eminönü: A classic Istanbul street food experience.
- Sample Turkish Delight (Lokum) and Baklava: Satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Eat Street Food: Try simit (sesame bread rings), midye dolma (stuffed mussels), or kokoreç (for the adventurous).
- Take a Turkish Cooking Class: Learn to make some of your favorite dishes.
- Enjoy a Meal with a Rooftop View: Many restaurants offer stunning vistas.
Culture, Arts & Entertainment:
- Watch a Whirling Dervish Ceremony (Sema): A mesmerizing spiritual performance.
- Visit Istanbul Modern: The city’s premier museum of modern and contemporary art.
- Explore Pera Museum: Features Orientalist art, Anatolian weights and measures, and Kütahya tiles.
- Catch a Performance at Süreyya Opera House (Kadıköy): A beautifully restored historic opera house.
- Visit Miniatürk: See miniature models of famous Turkish landmarks.
Relaxation & Unique Fun:
- Experience a Traditional Turkish Bath (Hamam): Get scrubbed and massaged for a unique cleansing ritual.
- Photograph the Cats of Istanbul: They are everywhere and an integral part of the city’s charm.
- Ride the Tünel: The world’s second-oldest subterranean urban rail line, connecting Karaköy and Istiklal.
- Visit the Princes’ Islands (e.g., Büyükada): Take a ferry for a day trip to these car-free islands, explore by bike or horse-drawn carriage (check availability of carriages).
- See the Şerefiye (Theodosius) Cistern: A beautifully restored, smaller cistern offering a different experience to Basilica Cistern.
This list should give you plenty of ideas to create an unforgettable Istanbul itinerary! Enjoy your trip!