When it comes to the top things to do in Istanbul, the signature Istanbul attractions are certainly the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapı Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and the Grand Bazaar. Travellers can admire the city’s ancient neighbourhoods, impressive architecture, sparkling waterfronts, and a modern pulse, all of which make an Istanbul profile so unique.
Best Places to Visit in Istanbul
The best places to visit in Istanbul range from legendary religious monuments, scenic towers, and colourful bazaars to hidden gems. Many of these Istanbul landmarks can be accessed with the Istanbul Museum Pass, offering savings and convenience for history lovers. For public transportation between sites, the İstanbulkart is essential. Several sites, including the Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and Basilica Cistern, are also part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed areas of Türkiye.
Whether you are staying one, two, or three days, here are the essential stops on your Istanbul travel guide that reveal the city’s soul
Hagia Sophia
Admire the Soaring Dome and Intricate Decorations
The sightseeing in Istanbul often begins at the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya Camii) because it reflects Istanbul’s religious heritage. Constructed between AD 532 and 537, this architectural marvel is an arresting symbol of Byzantine brilliance and is among the top things to do in Istanbul.
Blue Mosque
Be Dazzled by 20,000 Hand-Painted Blue Tiles
One of the photogenic Istanbul tourist spots, the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), with its striking blue tiles and six slender minarets, draws visitors from afar with a majestic presence. Visiting the awe-inspiring edifice is a must on any list of the best activities in Istanbul. This masterpiece of Ottoman architecture was built by Sedefkâr Mehmet Ağa, a gifted apprentice of the legendary architect Mimar Sinan.
Topkapı Palace
Walk in the Footsteps of Sultans
Epitomising the grandeur of Istanbul landmarks, Topkapı Palace (Topkapı Sarayı) was the heart of imperial life for over 400 years, where Ottoman sultans, their concubines, and a vast entourage lived in opulence. Since 1934, it has been a museum offering a fascinating glimpse into royal ceremonies, private lives, and state affairs.
Basilica Cistern
Spot the Medusa Head
The Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı) remains one of the atmospheric Istanbul historical sites that once supplied water to the Hagia Sophia. The reservoir showcases hundreds of marble columns, evoking a poetic ambience. Exploring this underground wonder undoubtedly covers the absolute best things to do in Istanbul, especially for history and architecture lovers.
Grand Bazaar
Practice Your Bargaining Skills
For centuries, the Istanbul shopping scene has revolved around the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı). Rambling through its cell shops feels like touching the past. Buyers still haggle, browse, and socialise just as they did centuries ago, preserving Istanbul’s deep-rooted traditions. With over 4,000 shops, it is perfect for buying souvenirs, spices, textiles, and a visit with Istanbul food tours.
Spice Bazaar
Take in the Istanbul Shopping Culture
Istanbul’s Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı) also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is a full sensory immersion, where dazzling colours, rich aromas, and the buzz of loud voices create an unforgettable atmosphere. As part of any well-rounded Istanbul sightseeing experience, this market enchants tourists with the exotic scent of spices, teas, and sweets.
Galata Tower
Capture the Grandeur Rising Above Hendek Street
Few Istanbul landmarks compare to Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) when it comes to elevated city views. Once known as Sycae (“on the opposite shore”), Galata predates Constantinople. It was a vital settlement with a forum in antiquity, a theatre, and a harbour.
Dolmabahçe Palace
See a Splendid Symbol of the 19th-century Reform
On the Istanbul city tours, Dolmabahçe Palace (Dolmabahçe Sarayı) represents the peak of opulent Istanbul attractions. It symbolises the Ottoman Empire’s shift toward Westernisation, replacing Topkapı Palace as the centre of power. If you are exploring the best places to visit in Istanbul, don’t miss this palatial landmark.
The Bosphorus
Choose a Short Ferry or a Private Yacht
No list of Istanbul boat tours is complete without a cruise along the Bosphorus. It guarantees stunning views of palaces, mosques, and the two continents. Travellers can choose between a short ferry ride or a private cruise with a Turkish dinner.
Süleymaniye Mosque
Inspiring Pause in the Peaceful Courtyard
Less crowded but equally majestic, the Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) is in the company of important Istanbul historical sites. It is akin to a younger sister of the Hagia Sophia. And it is no surprise, as its architect, the legendary Mimar Sinan, drew inspiration from Aya Sophia’s layout. Its hilltop location provides gorgeous views of the Golden Horn (Haliç).
Kariye Mosque (Chora Church)
Find the Byzantine 14th-century Frescoes
If you seek stunning cultural experiences in Istanbul, don’t leave without visiting the Chora Church. Featured in nearly every in-depth Istanbul travel guide, this site was originally among the revered churches of the Byzantine era. The Kariye Museum held status from 1945 until 2020, when it was turned into the Kariye Mosque (Kariye Camii) in the same year.
Istiklal Avenue
Walk Past Arcades and Historical Passages
Istiklal Avenue (İstiklal Caddesi) in the Beyoğlu district (also hailed as Pera) is a hallmark of iconic avenues for Istanbul shopping and city life. During the restoration of the historic Rumeli Han on the street, a 130-year-old hidden tunnel was uncovered. Now, the site is open to the public.
Taksim Square
Experience the Best Activities in Istanbul
Taksim Square (Taksim Meydanı) is the unmissable modern heart of Istanbul, in Beyoğlu, known for its political and cultural significance. Nearby landmarks include the Republic Monument, Taksim Mosque, Atatürk Cultural Centre, and Gezi Park. It is a hub for shopping, dining, and Istanbul nightlife.
Ortaköy Mosque
Take a Sunset Photo
Must-see places in Istanbul often include the small yet monumental Ortaköy Mosque (Ortaköy Camii), which graces the European shore of the Bosphorus with the Bosphorus Bridge as its backdrop. It’s a beautiful Muslim sanctuary with Baroque and Ottoman architecture. That’s why browsing the mosque continues to be a favourite, together with other things to do in Istanbul.
Balat Neighbourhood
Another Great Place for Photography
Balat district is an authentic area on the southern shore of the Golden Horn, dotted with brightly hued old houses, synagogues, churches, cafés, and art galleries. Esteemed for its multicultural heritage, it was the heart of the Jewish community in the past. The place is great for photography and a peaceful stroll.
Top Things to Do in Istanbul in One Day
If you have only one day, the top things to do in your Istanbul travel guide should focus on Sultanahmet on the European side (Avrupa Yakası), where many Istanbul tourist spots are within a short distance.
Start with the Topkapı Palace. This amazing Istanbul landmark requires around three hours.
Walk 5 minutes via Erabatan Street. Take a lunch break at the prominent restaurant in the area, recommended on many Istanbul food tours – Old Ottoman Café & Restaurant.
Advance toward the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) and then the Hagia Sophia.
In the evening, tourists can relax at the Grand Bazaar. You can easily reach it by tram T1 from Sultanahmet or take a casual 15-minute amble following the tram lines to the left.
End your day with a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, a classical option on many Istanbul city tours, especially for couples. Brief ferry rides are available from the adjacent Eminönü, making this a complete and convenient day.
Top Things to Do in Istanbul in Two Days
Here are essential Istanbul travel tips for a two-day adventure.
Top things to do in Istanbul in two days include the historic peninsula and the Asian side of Istanbul (Anadolu Yakası).
Day 1: Start with Must-See Istanbul Attractions
On Day 1, visit the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Hagia Sophia in the suggested order.
Rest your legs and have a gracious meal at the nearby Esto Restaurant. Next, head to the Topkapi Palace. Be sure to see the palace harem - Topkapı Sarayı Harem Dairesi.
Finish your day at the Hodjapasha Culture Centre to watch the spellbinding ceremony of whirling dervishes – a profound cultural experience in Istanbul.
Day 2: Istanbul Sightseeing on the Asian Side
On Day 2, visit Üsküdar on the Asian side of Istanbul. It can be reached by the Marmaray train or public ferry from the European side. From the Marmaray Station, proceed to the Kuzguncuk neighbourhood. Spend some time there before returning to Taksim Square via the Bosphorus.
The most frequented spot in the area is Istiklal Street (Istiklal Caddesi), a dynamic pedestrian avenue lined with shops, cafés, and heritage buildings featuring a vintage red tram.
Stop for lunch at WAMA’s, a popular dining spot right on the street, catering to authentic Turkish dishes.
Continue to the Galata Tower and the Galata Bridge. From the bridge, saunter briefly to the Spice Market and then the Grand Bazaar. At the bazaar, take a moment to taste Turkish snacks and coffee.
As the evening approaches, cruise on the Bosphorus to marvel at Istanbul’s spectacular skyline, especially during sunset. Istanbul boat tours are available just across the Egyptian Spice Market.
How to Spend Three Days in Istanbul
Is three days enough for the best activities in Istanbul?
Three days are enough to see Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks and experience its European and Asian sides. With smart planning, travellers can explore Istanbul historical sites like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace, enjoy the Bosphorus cruise, shop in the Grand Bazaar, and discover vibrant neighbourhoods such as Kadıköy and Balat.
In three days, the top things to do in Istanbul allow for a deeper dive into classic and off-the-beaten-path locations.
Day 1: Must-See Places in Istanbul
Commence your first day by setting off to Hagia Sophia next to the Blue Mosque. Take a lunch break at the proximate restaurant to Sultanahmet Square - 360 Panorama Restaurant.
After lunch, catch the T1 tram to Galata Tower in about 12 minutes. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Get in the tram again and spend your afternoon exploring the Topkapı Palace, then descend to the Basilica Cistern nearby. Conclude your day at Taksim Square, where you can shop and enjoy a lively dinner scene and Istanbul nightlife on Istiklal Street.
Day 2: Things to See in Istanbul Beyond Sultanahmet
Begin your second day with a private Bosphorus cruise. You can hop off at Ortaköy, which is celebrated for its mosque and charming cafés. It tops the list of the most picturesque Istanbul tourist spots by the waterfront. From there, stroll or take public transport toward Eminönü (near Galata Tower). Don’t miss trying balık ekmek (fish sandwich) from the famous stalls by the pier.
At midday, go to the Grand Bazaar and the fragrant Spice Bazaar, just an 8-minute walk apart. At these legendary markets, travellers can sample Turkish delights and find unique souvenirs.
Wrap up the day with a visit to the Süleymaniye Mosque, affording incredible views over the Golden Horn. Just a short walk from the Süleymaniye Mosque, visitors can unwind in the Ottoman-style hammams, where marble steam rooms and centuries-old bathing rituals await.
Day 3: Istanbul Best Activities on Both Shores
Begin at Dolmabahçe Palace, a prime example of lavish Istanbul attractions, on the edge of the Bosphorus. Take a bus 30D, 28, 28T, or 70KE to get to Karaköy’s Beyoğlu district and have a stylish lunch at the Galata Lily Café Restaurant.
In the afternoon, cross to the Asian side on a ferry and explore Kadıköy. After rambling through the bustling Kadikoy market, continue to the famed Moda neighbourhood, filled with cafés, boutique shops, and scenic coastal views.
If you want a deeper insight, consider guided tours in Istanbul highlighting hidden courtyards, local eateries, or mosque architecture – perfect for returning travellers.
As the day winds down, go on a sunset promenade by the Bosphorus seafront, one of the best things to do in Istanbul for couples.