Things to Do in Istanbul
Stunning mosques, fascinating museums and traditional Turkish baths; Istanbul has lots of fantastic attractions to discover. On our travel guide, you can find the most famous tourist attractions as well as some of the lesser-known aspects of Istanbul.
Once the capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires, the Turkish capital city spans both Europe and Asia. The city combines a great historical legacy with modern urban life, making it an incredible tourist destination, with lots to see and do. The Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace are some of the most iconic landmarks that stretch along the Bosphorus Strait and all of them have been deemed UNESCO World Heritage Sites. To learn more about these wonderful historical monuments, we recommend beginning your trip with a free tour of Istanbul or a private tour.
Monuments and Attractions
One of the must-see places in Istanbul is the former residence of the Ottoman sultans. For your convenience, you can buy the entrance ticket to Topkapi Palace at this link.
Another must-see plan in Istanbul is to climb the Galata Tower, one of the oldest in the world, and, of course, join a tour of the mosques of Istanbul. You will be amazed by Hagia Sophia, with its more than 1,500 years of history, and the beautiful decorative tiles of the Blue Mosque.
When planning your trip to Istanbul, it's worth checking out a cruise on the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, the show of Dervishes Gyrovagos, a belly dance show, or, for the foodies in the group, a food tour. Plus, if you are lucky enough to spend several days in the city, you can dedicate one of them to a day trip to Cappadocia.
Museums: Historical and Artistic Legacies
Istanbul is a city with history at every turn. It's home to perfectly preserved remains of one of the gates of ancient Babylon, as well as the sarcophagus of Alexander the Great. These are just some of the highlights of the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. To visit its extensive collection, admission is included as part of the Istanbul E-pass tourist card.
During your stay, you might also consider visiting the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum or booking a ticket to the Hagia Sophia History Museum. These institutions offer some of the best cultural and historical insights into this storied city.
The Best Hammams in Istanbul
Istanbul is also well known for its relaxing Turkish baths, a central aspect of Arab culture and tradition. The hammams (also known as Turkish Baths) feature irresistable baths and usually additional services such as massages, scrubs and beauty treatments.
Turkish baths vary in luxury and authenticity, from historic and ornate to modern and elegant. Cemberlitas or Suleymaniye are some of the most famous in the city but, of course, there are many others. Check out these two bath options for some inspiration:
