Things to do in Istanbul
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Most popular experiences in Istanbul
Shopping & fashion
See all 86 activitiesOpens in new tabHagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
History & culture
See all 667 activitiesOpens in new tabIstanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
Spa & wellness
See all 40 activitiesOpens in new tabIstanbul: Private Turkish Bath,Massage , Sauna & Swimming Pool
Attractions
See all 8 activitiesOpens in new tabIstanbul: Zipline Adventure with Bosphorus View
Cruises & boat tours
See all 120 activitiesOpens in new tabBosphorus Night Cruise with Dinner, Show and Private Table
What to do in Istanbul
Popular places to visit
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.
Hagia Sophia
Once a church, then a Byzantine cathedral, later a mosque and now a monument, this iconic building is a national treasure.
Blue Mosque
The nickname of this 17th-century structure refers to the brilliant color of its tiled interior.
Galata Tower
Istanbul’s medieval lookout point offers panoramic views across city’s historic district and the water of the Golden Horn.
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.
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.
Sultanahmet Square
You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a stop at Sultanahmet Square. Add the area's shops or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.
Istiklal Avenue
During your visit to Istanbul, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Istiklal Avenue. Discover the area's fascinating museums and notable monuments.
Topkapi Palace
The official residence of the Ottoman sultans for about four centuries is now accessible to the public and home to sacred relics.
Areas of Istanbul
Taksim
Enjoy the popular shops in Taksim. Taksim Square is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Taksim Station or Findikli Station to see more of Istanbul.
Sultanahmet
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Kadıköy
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Kadıköy. Spend some time visiting top spots like Kalamış Marina, and catch the metro at Bahariye Station or Acibadem Station to see more of the area.
Beşiktaş
Spend some time visiting places like Zorlu Performing Arts Center while getting to know Beşiktaş, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Nispetiye Station or Etiler Station to see more of the area.
Istanbul City Center
Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Istanbul City Center. Check out top attractions like Taksim Square and Grand Bazaar, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.
Şişli
Travellers love Şişli for its popular shops, and you can see more of Istanbul by jumping on the metro at Sisli Station or Osmanbey Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre and Mecidiyekoy Square.
- Taksim Square
- Hagia Sophia
- Galata Tower
- Blue Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
- Topkapi Palace
- Bosphorus Bridge
- Dolmabahçe Palace
- Bağdat Avenue
- Basilica Cistern
- Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre
- Viaport Outlet Shopping
- Süleymaniye Mosque
- Bahçeşehir Gölet Park
- Egyptian Bazaar
- Medicana International Istanbul Hospital
- Eyup Sultan Mosque
- Vodafone Park
- Gülhane Park
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