What to Do in Istanbul: 15 Must-Sees Spots + Map

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Updated: 13 January, 2025

Istanbul is a city with an incredible history, vibrant culture, and enchanting corners. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to see in Istanbul—must-visit spots that will leave you speechless.

What to Visit in Istanbul

1. Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is an architectural masterpiece and a living testament to the city’s historical evolution. Originally built in the 6th century as a Byzantine church, it later became a mosque, then a museum, and now it’s a mosque once again. It’s undoubtedly one of the most remarkable places to visit in Istanbul.

What captivates me the most is its central dome, which seems to float effortlessly thanks to the advanced engineering of its time. The golden mosaics from its Christian era blend seamlessly with Islamic details, creating an ambiance that’s truly one of a kind.

Entrance Fee: Is It Worth It?

Since early 2024, there’s an entry fee to visit Hagia Sophia. Tourists can only access the upper gallery, where you’ll get stunning views of the prayer area, a closer look at the dome, and an up-close experience with the breathtaking mosaics.

If you're wondering if it's worth paying the entrance fee for Hagia Sophia, it really depends on how much you value unique historical experiences. The visit itself is short, lasting less than 30 minutes, but Hagia Sophia’s unparalleled history and mesmerizing mosaics make it special. For me, it’s absolutely worth it.

There are two lines: one for purchasing tickets at the booths in front of the entrance and another for entry. During peak seasons, the ticket line can take over an hour. To save time, you can book a skip-the-line ticket on this page.

Even better, you might consider this guided tour, which includes entry to Hagia Sophia, a visit to the Blue Mosque, and a Bosphorus cruise.

• Opening Hours: 9 AM to 7 PM (until 5 PM in winter)

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2. Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, or Sultanahmet Camii, is famous for its interior, adorned with over 20,000 ceramic tiles. Stepping inside, I was struck by how the natural light streaming through its 200 windows contrasts beautifully with the blue tones that dominate the space.

The outer courtyard is equally captivating, with its elegant fountains and arches. For me, it’s one of the most stunning mosques in Istanbul. It’s also a must-see landmark, and the best part? Entry is free.

If you want to dive deeper into the history of this mosque and other highlights of the Sultanahmet district, I recommend this free tour. The guide is knowledgeable and makes the experience quite enjoyable.

• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 6 PM (closed during prayer times)

Tips for Visiting Mosques

When visiting mosques in Istanbul (and mausoleums too), you will need:

• Remove your shoes: You can leave them at the entrance or place them on the shelves inside. I left mine outside and had no problems, but you can also bring a bag to carry them if you prefer.
• Dress modestly: Everyone—men, women, and children—should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
• Cover your hair (for women): Most mosques provide scarves at the entrance, but it’s a good idea to bring your own. I kept a scarf tied around my neck and would just pull it up to cover my hair before going inside.

3. Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is a symbol of Ottoman grandeur. Strolling through its courtyards and pavilions feels like stepping into a story from One Thousand and One Nights. Inside the Imperial Treasury, you’ll find dazzling pieces of gold, jewels, and religious relics that are absolutely awe-inspiring.

My favorite part? The Harem, where the sultan’s women once lived. The intricate wall and ceiling decorations are breathtaking, with stunning details everywhere you look. From the back courtyard, you’ll also get incredible views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. Visiting this palace is one of the best things to do in Istanbul—it’s simply unmissable.

I recommend going early in the morning to explore the Harem without the crowds. Lines can get really long, so consider booking your tickets in advance on this page to skip the line.

If you plan on visiting multiple attractions in Istanbul, you may consider getting this Istanbul Pass. It covers entry to Topkapi Palace, most of the city’s iconic sites, and even includes a Bosphorus cruise.

• Opening Hours: 9 AM to 7 PM (until 5 PM in winter)

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4. Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar, also called the Egyptian Bazaar, is a feast for the senses and an absolute must-visit in Istanbul. The air is filled with the scents of saffron, cinnamon, and cumin, while the colorful stalls of spices, dried fruits and Turkish sweets are a feast for the eyes.

This is my favorite bazaar in the city—it’s less chaotic and more charming than the Grand Bazaar. It’s also the ideal place to shop for authentic souvenirs. Haggling is expected to get the best price, but the starting prices here are much more reasonable compared to the Grand Bazaar (which I’ll talk about later).

Keep in mind that you will get better deals if you pay in cash, and some stalls don’t accept cards.

• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM (although in my experience, at 7:30 AM is already open).

5. Suleymaniye Mosque

The Süleymaniye Mosque is less crowded than the Blue Mosque, but it’s equally impressive. The location on a hill gives you breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the city, with the madrasa domes adding to the scene. The interior is simple yet elegant, and the acoustics are unforgettable.

While you’re here, take some time to wander through the garden, the cemetery, and the mausoleums. For me, it’s one of the best free activities in Istanbul if you’re looking for a peaceful and authentic atmosphere.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed during prayer times).

6. Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is a medieval landmark that stands tall over Istanbul’s skyline. Originally built as a watchtower, it carries a fascinating history and has become one of the city’s most photogenic spots. You’ll find great angles to capture it from all over Istanbul, but my favorite is on Büyük Hendek Street, which leads right to the tower. Another fantastic view is from Ceneviz Café, a cozy outdoor spot where you can admire this iconic structure up close.

At the top, there’s an observation deck with sweeping panoramic views of the city. If you can, go at sunset—it’s magical to watch the lights of Istanbul glimmer across the Bosphorus. You can get your tickets here, or use the Istanbul Pass.

• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM

7. Istiklal Caddesi

Istiklal Caddesi, or Independence Avenue, is Istanbul’s most vibrant street and an absolute must-see. It’s always buzzing with energy, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. What I love most is how it blends modern life with traditional charm.

Start your walk at the famous Taksim Square, and for a classic touch, hop on the historic red tram that runs along the avenue. You can pay with Istanbulkart, the city transportation card.

A little tip: the tram gets super crowded during the day, packed with locals and tourists alike. For a quieter, more relaxed ride, hop on early in the morning when it’s nearly empty.

8. Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from carpets and jewelry to ceramics and leather goods.

Just wandering through its maze-like corridors is an experience—you’ll almost certainly get lost, but that’s part of the charm.

As with most markets in Istanbul, haggling is essential. That said, my advice? Skip shopping here. Prices are heavily inflated—sometimes by as much as 400%! 🥴 It makes negotiating a fair deal nearly impossible. Instead, look for similar items elsewhere in the city for a fraction of the price.

The exception? Gold jewelry. Locals often shop here for stunning antique and modern pieces. You’ll also find currency exchange offices inside and nearby offering some of the best rates in Istanbul.

Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, the Grand Bazaar is still worth visiting for its atmosphere and history.

• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM

👍 Friend's tip: If you’re taking photos—especially of jewelry —ask for permission first. Many shops have already the “no photos” signs posted, including lamp stores.

9. Bosphorus Cruise

A Bosphorus cruise is one of the best ways to experience the connection between Europe and Asia. The views from the water are incredible—palaces, bridges, traditional wooden houses, and the stunning Maiden’s Tower are just some of the highlights.

Sunset is the best time for a cruise, so you can see the sun setting behind the city and the lights coming on.

I took this dinner cruise, and it was fantastic! It’s reasonably priced, includes a dance show, and made for a memorable evening. Alternatively, you can hop on one of the cruises included with the Istanbul Pass.

10. Ortakoy Mosque

Ortakoy Mosque is picture-perfect, set right on the Bosphorus, and easily one of my favorite spots in Istanbul.

While the interior of the mosque is relatively simple, the real magic happens at sunset. As the lights come on, and the bridge behind it glows, the scene feels straight out of a postcard. For the perfect ending, head to one of the nearby terrace bars for a drink with a view. Prices are a bit steeper here than elsewhere in the city, but trust me—the experience is worth it.

11. Dolmabahce Palace

This palace is more modern compared to Topkapi, blending Ottoman architecture with strong Western influences. Inside, you’ll find jaw-dropping luxury, from Bohemian crystal chandeliers to grand marble staircases. The Throne Hall, in particular, is absolutely stunning.

The surrounding gardens are ideal for a peaceful stroll, with a gorgeous views of the Bosphorus. If you have the chance, don’t miss adding this to your Istanbul itinerary. You can book a skip-the-line ticket on this page or use the Istanbul Pass.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

12. Balat District

Balat is easily Istanbul’s most colorful and bohemian neighborhood. Wandering its streets feels like stepping into another era, with brightly painted wooden houses and charming antique shops at every turn. It’s also a haven for cozy cafes and art galleries.

The relaxed vibe here makes it the perfect spot to escape the city’s bustle for a while. Just be ready for some steep streets—it’s a bit of a workout, but totally worth it. After exploring, stop by the lovely Velvet Cafe for a well-deserved break.

I also recommend checking out the exterior of the Greek Orthodox Church of the Virgin Mary, and make time to visit the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church—its unique architecture is a beautiful blend of Byzantine and Ottoman styles.

13. Karaköy Neighborhood

Karaköy is Istanbul’s trendiest area, buzzing with life and creativity. Its streets are lined with murals, and the food scene here is incredible, offering everything from traditional Turkish dishes to international options. If you’re into street food, you absolutely have to try the famous mackerel dürüm at a local stall. They are finger-licking good!

Karaköy is also a fantastic choice for nightlife, making it one of the best area to stay in istanbul if you want to be at the center of the action.

14. Visit a Hammam

You can’t leave Istanbul without experiencing a Turkish bath—it’s a must-try! The city is home to several historic hammams with stunning Ottoman architecture, featuring beautiful marble and mosaic interiors. The traditional treatment usually includes a steam bath followed by an exfoliating massage, leaving your skin refreshed and rejuvenated.

I recommend Cagaloglu Hamamı, which you can book through this link. They offer great service at competitive prices.

I’ve tried several hammams during my visits, and Cagaloglu is one of the best Hammam in Istanbul.

Just keep in mind that traditional hammams have separate areas for men and women.

15. Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is a magical, otherworldly spot. This ancient underground reservoir has an air of mystery, with hundreds of softly lit columns creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. Don’t miss the Medusa head carvings or the soothing sound of water echoing beneath your feet.

If you’re visiting during the summer, the cool air inside is a welcome break from the heat. It’s one of Istanbul’s must-see attractions and will definitely leave an impression. You can book a fast-track ticket here or use the Istanbul Pass.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM

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Istanbul Must-Sees Map

Conclusion

These are some of the best things to do in Istanbul, offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and unique experiences. From iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to the vibrant streets of Balat and Karaköy, there’s truly something here for everyone.

In this guide to Turkey, you’ll find the rest of my articles about this fascinating country.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘

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