Things to do in Arnavutköy

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by IGA Istanbul Airport
Photo provided by IGA Istanbul Airport
Photo provided by IGA Istanbul Airport
Photo provided by IGA Istanbul Airport
Photo provided by IGA Istanbul Airport
Photo provided by IGA Istanbul Airport
Photo provided by IGA Istanbul Airport
Photo provided by IGA Istanbul Airport
Photo provided by IGA Istanbul Airport
Photo provided by IGA Istanbul Airport

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Top places to visit

1. Blue Mosque

As one of the most striking features of the Istanbul skyline, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is awe-inspiring in size and scope. More often called the Blue Mosque, it was built under the rule of Sultan Ahmed I of the Ottoman Empire and completed in 1616. The original architect’s vision was to build a great religious site with prominent Islamic features.
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Blue Mosque which includes religious elements, a mosque and heritage architecture

2. Hagia Sophia

As one of the finest architectural marvels, as well as one of the largest churches, in the world, Hagia Sophia is Istanbul’s most famous landmark. The building you see today represents many cultures.

Known in Turkish as “Ayasofya” (Sacred Wisdom), Hagia Sophia has been of major religious importance to the region, and for various faiths. The church was first commissioned by the Romans and was opened in A.D. 360 before becoming Constantinople’s main Christian place of worship. After riots destroyed the building not once but twice, a new basilica was eventually built in the sixth century, and the Hagia Sophia became the center of Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
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Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.

3. Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) lies between the Bayezid and Nuruosmaniye mosques, and covers an enormous area. Once you enter one of its 21 gates and start exploring, it’s clear that this is one of the largest bazaars in the world. Under its seemingly endless roofs you can find glazed tiles, spices, pottery, brassware, leather accessories, belly-dancing costumes, pipes and ashtrays, among other curiosa and crafts.
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Enter the maze of shop-lined streets in one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world to browse hundreds of thousands of hand-crafted objects.

4. Galata Tower

When it was built, the stone Galata Tower was the tallest structure in Istanbul, its nine stories rising high to nearly 220 feet (67 meters).
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Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.

5. Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is among the best preserved Ottoman palaces, located on the spot where settlement in Istanbul began. A visit to its quarters provides insight into the Ottoman history of the Turkish city. The 15th-century Topkapi Palace was converted into a museum under Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, in 1924.
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The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.

What to do in Arnavutköy

Popular places to visit

Taksim Square

Taksim Square

You can learn about the local history of Istanbul during your trip to a well-known site such as Taksim Square. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.

Taksim Square
Blue Mosque which includes religious elements, a mosque and heritage architecture

Blue Mosque

The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.

Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia

Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.

Hagia Sophia
Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar

Enter the maze of shop-lined streets in one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world to browse hundreds of thousands of hand-crafted objects.

Grand Bazaar
Galata Tower

Galata Tower

Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.

Galata Tower
Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace

The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.

Topkapi Palace
Bosphorus

Bosphorus

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Bosphorus during your travels in Istanbul. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.

Bosphorus
Bosphorus Bridge featuring cruising, a bridge and a coastal town

Bosphorus Bridge

Travel from Europe to Asia on the first bridge to connect the two continents, admire the bridge from below during a cruise and visit centuries-old buildings.

Bosphorus Bridge
Sultanahmet Square

Sultanahmet Square

You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a stop at Sultanahmet Square. Add the area's notable monuments or shops to your travel plans.

Sultanahmet Square
Istanbul

Istanbul

Photo by Cigdem Gureli

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Frequently asked questions

Is Arnavutköy worth visiting?
Arnavutköy has a unique blend of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into nature, history or local cuisine, there's a lot here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Arnavutköy?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Hagios Nikolaos Greek Orthodox Church. Then, explore different areas of Arnavutköy for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Arnavutköy?
Don't go home without visiting Hagios Nikolaos Greek Orthodox Church, rated the top tourist attraction in Arnavutköy.
Is three days enough to stay in Arnavutköy?
Three days is enough for a quick escape to Arnavutköy — you'll tick off the main sights and get a good feel for the local vibe. But if you truly want to experience it all, hang around for at least a week or more to explore the nearby areas too.
What are some activities to do in Arnavutköy with kids?
Planning what to do in Arnavutköy with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or toddlers, there are loads of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Arnavutköy for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Arnavutköy, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Florya Ataturk Villa or Fenari Isa Mosque.
Are there free things to do in Arnavutköy?
In Arnavutköy, Hagios Nikolaos Greek Orthodox Church is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to see the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a good way to explore the best free things to do in Arnavutköy.