Sitting astride Europe and Asia, the best things to do in Istanbul reflect the colourful, clamorous culture-clash of East meets West in a fascinating city where old meets new, religion meets hedonism, and grandeur meets tumbledown. Its food alone is an exuberant coming-together of cuisines, from the ancient spice markets to contemporary waterfront restaurants. Part of the joy of Istanbul is following your nose, wandering up and down its steps and side streets to see what you might find and who you might meet. Make time for a few of these memorable experiences to immerse yourself in Istanbul’s soul and see this unique, many-layered city in its very best light.
1. Get Steamed Up
For the full authentic hammam experience, sweat it out at Çemberlitaş Hamamı. Bathers lie on a circular marble slab beneath a dome inset with glass stars, through which rays of light pierce the steam. Afterwards, attendants scrub, press, and pummel you until you beg for mercy. They also offer extras such as head massages and clay face masks. A more private, deluxe version can be enjoyed at Six Senses Kocataş Mansions, whose new spa offers various hammam treatments in a restored stone house beside the Bosphorus.
Address: Çemberlitaş Hamamı, Mollafenari, Vezirhan Cd. No:8, 34440 Fatih/İstanbul; Six Senses Kocataş Mansions, Merkez Mahallesi Meserburnu Caddesi, No: 5 Sarıyer, Istanbul, 34450
2. Must-See Mosques
Even those who find religious sights boring are inclined to visit Istanbul’s great mosques. The greatest of them all is the many-domed Sultan Ahmed Mosque – known as The Blue Mosque for the hand-painted blue tiles that cover its awe-inspiring interior – and, next door, the Hagia Sophia, radiant and golden within, light pouring through its high windows.
Address: The Blue Mosque, Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul; Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
3. Contemporary Art Scene
Istanbul’s contemporary art scene is thriving right now. Take an art tour of Dolapdere, the city’s fast-emerging creative neighbourhood. Two major galleries are Dirimart, a pioneer of the scene, and Pilevneli, which showcases lively exhibitions and large-scale installations by international and Turkish artists. Contemporary art museum Arter, which opened in 2019, houses Turkey’s first permanent collection of modern and contemporary art, alongside workshops, performances, and a café, in a striking building designed by Grimshaw Architects.
Address: Dirimart, Hacı Ahmet Mahallesi Irmak Caddesi DLP 1-9, 34440 Beyoğlu; Pilevneli, Yenişehir, Irmak Cd. No:25, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul; Arter, Yenişehir, Irmak Cd. No:13, 34435 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
4. Sail at Sunset or Sunrise
Istanbul mornings start silvery, sunlight dancing on the Bosphorus, while the setting sun paints the water gold and the skies fiery red. One of the most picturesque experiences in Istanbul is watching this spectacle from the water, with clear views of the skyline and its landmarks illuminated. You can charter a private boat, join a cruise, or simply hop on one of the public ferries that ply the Bosphorus.
5. Explore a Bazaar
If shopping can be classified as a cultural experience, it surely is in Istanbul. The city’s historic bazaars offer a colourful, sensorial insight into daily life. The Spice Bazaar is fragrant with heaps of bright spices, herbs, teas, and sweets, while the Grand Bazaar is the ultimate Aladdin’s Cave with about 3,600 shops featuring everything from dusty old lamps to precious stones and handmade ceramics. Haggling is part of the experience, so it’s wise to do some research beforehand to understand the fair prices.
Address: (The Spice Bazaar) Mısır Çarşısı, Rüstem Paşa, Erzak Ambarı Sok. No:92, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul; (The Grand Bazaar) Kapali Çarsi, Beyazıt, Kalpakçılar Cd. No:22, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul
6. Enjoy Exceptional Seafood
Turkish cuisine is often associated with the kebab; however, it boasts exceptional seafood. Try the plump curls of octopus tentacle, chargrilled seafood, and the freshest fish. The Beyoğlu Fish Market offers a glimpse into the fishing culture, where you can enjoy low-key restaurants alongside fish stalls. For a more refined seaside setting, Galata Port is home to Sait, which serves some of the best seafood in the city.
Address: Karakoy Fish House, Azapkapı, Fermeneciler Cd. No:35, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul; Sait, Kılıçali Paşa Mahallesi, Meclis-i Mebusan Sok. O1 Blok No:8 D:102 Galataport, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
7. Discover Trotsky’s Island Home
The offshore Princes’ Islands have long been a retreat for wealthy Istanbulites. Trotsky lived in Büyükada, the largest of the islands, which remains car-free. You can rent a bike or take a horse-drawn taxi to explore its forested interior and seek out stunning beaches. Consider staying at Splendid Palace Hotel, an eye-catching site with charming architecture.
Address: Splendid Palace Hotel, Büyükada-nizam, Yirmiç Nisan Cd. No: 39, 34970 Adalar/İstanbul
8. Dance like a Dervish
The Whirling Dervish shows at Galata Tower cater mostly to tourists. However, for an authentic local experience, Lucca in the waterfront neighbourhood of Bebek is the place to be. By day, it’s a bistro and cocktail bar; after dark, it transforms into the city’s glam party destination with DJs and a vibrant crowd.
Address: Lucca, Bebek, Cevdet Paşa Cd. 51/A, 34342 Sarıyer/İstanbul
9. Experience Ottoman Luxury
Ottoman sultans commissioned lavish residences that remain as museums or luxurious hotels. Notably, the Ciragan Palace Kempinski is an exquisite structure offering five-star luxury. It boasts stunning views of the Bosphorus, elegant interiors, and opulent suites that are among the most expensive in the world.
Address: Ciragan Palace Kempinski, Yıldız, Çırağan Cd. No:32, 34349 Beşiktaş/İstanbul
10. Antique Market Adventures
On Sundays, an antique market pops up in Feriköy, offering a unique experience away from the usual tourist spots. Here, you’ll find a wealth of unexpected treasures and bargains, from Ottoman-era items to vintage rugs and jewelry.
Address: Feriköy Antika Pazarı, Cumhuriyet, Semt Pazarı No:8, 34380 Şişli/İstanbul
11. Find Christian Heritage
Istanbul was once Constantinople, and it still boasts a vibrant Christian community. The Greek Patriarchate serves as the heart of the Greek Orthodox world. Nearby, the Bulgarian Church of St Stephen made entirely of iron is a must-see. Don’t miss the lovely Anglican Crimean Memorial Church in Beyoğlu.
Address: Greek Patriarchate, Sadrazam Ali Paşa Caddesi No: 35, Fatih/İstanbul; Bulgarian Church of St Stephen, Mürselpaşa Caddesi. No: 10, Balat; St. Anthony of Padua Church, İstiklal Caddesi No. 171, Beyoğlu; Crimean Memorial Church, Serdar-i Ekrem Caddesi No. 52, Beyoğlu
12. Savor Street Food
Istanbul’s street food scene is exceptional. Start your day with a “simit,” a sesame-covered roll enjoyed with cheese. For lunch, try the popular balık ekmek (fish bread) or go for kumpir, a baked potato loaded with toppings. Treat yourself to maraş dondurma, a chewy Turkish ice cream sold by playful street vendors.
13. Discover the Asian Side
Cross continents to explore the Asian side of Istanbul. This vibrant area holds much of the city’s historical richness and cultural diversity. Popular neighbourhoods like Kadıköy offer authentic Anatolian cuisine, bars, and clubs for nightlife.
Address: Çiya, Güneşlibahçe Sokak No 43, Kadıköy
14. Waterfront Walks
A 1.2-kilometer stretch along Karaköy has transformed into an arts and culture zone complete with cafes and shopping boutiques. Enjoy scenic views and visit museums like Istanbul Modern to appreciate local artwork.
Address: Galataport, Meclis-i Mebusan Caddesi No: 14, Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey; The Peninsula Istanbul, Kemankeş Caddesi No. 34, Beyoğlu/İstanbul
15. Visit the Historic Peninsula
Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, and The Blue Mosque form a triangle of must-see attractions on the Sultanahmet peninsula. These landmarks are essential for every visitor, showcasing the rich history and architectural marvels of the city.
Address: Topkapı Palace, Cankurtaran, Fatih/İstanbul; Hagia Sophia Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No: 1, Fatih/İstanbul; The Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Camii, At Meydanı Caddesi No: 10, Fatih/İstanbul
