Things to do in Istanbul

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Galata Tower

Istanbul Attractions

Istanbul is a city that evokes so much charisma and appeal, hard to resist, with rich culture, history, and the sheer colorfulness of its day-to-day life. This transcontinental city in Turkey, located along the Bosphorus, in between Black Sea and Sea of Marmara, offers a tantalizing mix of gorgeous natural and manmade splendors. Istanbul excursions can be a treat for a lifetime, one that can transport you into a voyage into the past while fascinating you with its enigmatic present.


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Most popular activities in Istanbul

What to do in Istanbul

Free Things to Do in Istanbul

They say the best things in life are free. Be sure to explore the following around Istanbul:

Dogancay Museum - Stroll the halls and appreciate the captivating displays and carefully curated collections at this museum.

Istanbul University - Architecture lover or not, get set to be awed by this landmark's modernistic design.

German Fountain - If you're captivated by bygone times, this is one stop you ought not to miss.

Beyazit Square - This is a bustling area where you can soak in the atmosphere and join in on the local way of life.

The Million Stone - If you want to see a few of the more important or interesting places in the community, this is a good place to start.

Firuzaga Mosque - Gain a deeper understanding of the local beliefs at this sacred place.

Camlica Hill - Retreat from the big city and reconnect with Mother Nature at this incredible place.

Gulhane Park - Rejuvenate your mind and soul by spending a bit of time in nature.

Experience The Best Of Things To Do In Istanbul With Expedia

With an endless number of attractions in Istanbul, it might be hard for any tourist to pick a few favorites on the map. Book exclusive Istanbul tours right here, and visit the must see places in the city that spreads across two continents. Marvel at the splendid Hagia Sophia, resplendent of the magnificent Byzantine architecture in the Sultanahmet area. Behold the breathtaking Blue Mosque with its intricate minarets and domes. Be prepared to be enchanted by the impressive Topkapi Palace built in the Ottoman era, and don’t miss the famed Istanbul Archaeology Museum. Istanbul activities are not just about the top tourist spots, but also about the innumerable experiences which are hard to find elsewhere.

While you find yourself strolling through the winding streets and local bazaars, in your quest for ancient culture and history, be sure to visit the quaint cafes, shops, and restaurants. Istanbul excursions are rarely complete without the delightful culinary indulgences owing to its rich and diverse heritage. Sharpen your haggling skills at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest indoor markets in the world. From spices to carpets and clothing to trinkets, shopping for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, from the local vendors, is sure to be addicting.

Now, on Expedia, it is possible to visit and enjoy the city with an insider’s perspective. Book your entire vacation, from start to finish, in a matter of minutes, and fly to your own paradise in Turkey. Coveted for a vibrant culture and enchanting past that seamlessly converge with the present, Istanbul tours can be one rewarding experience.

Things to Do in Istanbul with Kids

There are plenty of incredible experiences in Istanbul that the entire gang will get a buzz out of. Here are some of the most popular family friendly experiences around.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Istanbul? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Istanbul on a sunny day?
What to do in Istanbul on a rainy day?
What is Istanbul famous for?
With plenty of well-known attractions like these, your most daunting decision will be where to start:

  • Blue Mosque
  • Hagia Sophia
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Basilica Cistern

What should I not miss in Istanbul?
If you’d like to see the best of this place, find time for these attractions in your schedule:

  • Taksim Square
  • Galata Tower
  • The Egyptian Bazaar
  • Bosphorus Bridge

Are there cheap things to do in Istanbul?
What can you do in Istanbul for free?
You’ll barely have time to dig your wallet out of your pocket with so many wonderful free attractions:

  • Blue Mosque
  • Suleymaniye Mosque
  • Taksim Square
  • The Egyptian Bazaar


Discover the most popular places to visit in Istanbul

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Istanbul

Blue Mosque featuring a mosque, a pond and a fountain

Sultanahmet

Discover the historical heart of one of the world’s most happening places: an ancient Roman, Greek and Ottoman city connecting Europe to the Middle East.

Sultanahmet
Taksim featuring street scenes and a city

Taksim

4/5(1,856 area reviews)

Istanbul is where Asia meets Europe and this central district combines the modern, Western and cosmopolitan side of Turkey with some impressive medieval attractions.

Taksim
Galata Tower which includes heritage architecture and a city

Istanbul City Center

4/5(235 area reviews)

Experience the bustling atmosphere of the beating heart of Istanbul, with its splendid mix of cosmopolitan and historical attractions.

Istanbul City Center
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Kadıköy

4/5(165 area reviews)

Spend some time visiting places like Istanbul Toy Museum while getting to know Kadıköy, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Bahariye Station or Acibadem Station to see more of the area.

Kadıköy
Istanbul which includes a marina, landscape views and general coastal views

Fatih

4.5/5(2,609 area reviews)

Grand Bazaar and Blue Mosque are top sights in Fatih, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Aksaray Station or Yusufpasa Station to see more sights in the area.

Fatih
Bosphorus Bridge which includes a coastal town, cruising and a river or creek

Beşiktaş

4.5/5(331 area reviews)

Beşiktaş may still be part of Europe, but it looks towards Asia. Its rich cultural mix is reflected in its many wonderful attractions.

Beşiktaş

Popular day trips from Istanbul