Discover What to Do in Istanbul for a Culturally‐Rich Sojourn
The first stop for newly-arrived travelers wondering what to do in Istanbul is the Sultanahmet district, home to the city's most iconic sites. Stepping into the Hagia Sophia immediately reveals the city’s multi-layered identity; once a church, then a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again, this architectural chameleon is a must see in Istanbul. Across the square lies the Blue Mosque, famed for its six slender minarets and hypnotic İznik tilework. Just steps away, the hauntingly lit columns and Medusa heads of the Basilica Cistern make a visit here one of the most atmospheric and unique things to do in Istanbul.
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Top Experiences in Istanbul
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Turkey Museums of Istanbul Tour
Immerse yourself in the incredible history and culture of Turkey with this tour through the Topkapi Palace Museum. This package gives you the unique opportunity to skip inconvenient lines and connect with local tour guides, allowing you to gain fresh insights from their observations and experience. Originally serving as the offical residence for Ottoman Sultans, this museum is both visually enticing and filled with interesting wonders.
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Istanbul Archeological Tour with Tickets
Join our guided tour and discover ancient treasures, from the Alexander Sarcophagus to the world’s oldest peace treaty. Dive into the stories of civilizations past with our expert guide. Book now for a journey through history! This tour have a maximum of 12 to 13 people.
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Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht
Admire Istanbul’s skyline as you glide down the Bosphorus, passing striking landmarks such as Dolmabahce Palace, the Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus Bridge. Set sail in the evening in time to watch the sunset from the water, sip included soft drinks and snack on a range of canapés and fruits, and listen to the live onboard commentary to learn more about the city’s fascinating history and heritage.
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Half‐Day Istanbul Walking Tour
Discover the hidden gems and highlights of the Old City of Istanbul. Hear the stories of the Greeks, Romans and Ottomans. Visit the Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral and now a mosque. Walk through the streets of the Grand Bazaar, the world's largest covered souk. Explore Süleymaniye and Rüstempaşa Mosques, and learn about Islam from a local perspective. Finally, taste spices and Turkish delight in the Spice Market.
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Istanbul Sultanahmet Private Tour
Get to know Istanbul’s Old City on this private tour of the Sultanahmet neighborhood. In the company of a guide, learn about the history of the city and explore the historical center on foot. Enjoy personalized attention and explore the city at your own speed. Visit the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern, the Grand Bazaar, and more.
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Full‐Day Istanbul Tour
Head back in time and discover the old world of the Sultanahmet area during this full‐day small‐group guided walking tour in Istanbul. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage‐listed Blue Mosque. Stroll through the famous Topkapi Palace where Sultans roamed and harems flourished. Plus, spend time observing the Hagia Irene’s Byzantine architecture and wander the Grand Bazaar to witness handicrafts created by local artists.
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Turkey Istanbul Walking Tour
Explore the iconic sights of Istanbul on this half day walking tour with a local guide. Stroll through Istanbul's historic Sultanahmet neighborhood, and admire the gleaming mosaics of the Hagia Sophia. Learn about the Ottoman Empire and its mysterious Harem in Topkapı Palace. Immerse yourself in the antiquity era at the Roman Cistern, before shopping for souvenirs at the incredible Grand Bazaar.
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Legends of Istanbul Live Show Experience
Step into the heart of Istanbul and embark on an unforgettable journey through history and myth with Legends of Istanbul. This immersive live show brings to life eight captivating stories, featuring iconic figures such as Medusa, Hezarfen, Hurrem Sultan, Great Sinan, Fatih Sultan Mehmet and the Whirling Dervishes. With 15 vibrant, costumed characters and stunning visuals, the performance transports you to a different time and place, showcasing Istanbul's rich culture and legendary past. Perfect for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike, this 45‐minute show is a must‐see for anyone looking to experience the magic of Istanbul in a unique and captivating way. Don't miss out on this mesmerizing cultural experience—book your tickets today!
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Istanbul Old City Group Tour
Take time to explore Istanbul’s Old City with ease with this group tour. Depart from your local hotel in an air‐conditioned vehicle and set out into the city. In the company of a guide, learn about the history of Istanbul and visit the Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and more.
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Istanbul Imperial‐Era Luxury Small‐Group Tour
Your full‐day tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from your central hotel, located on the European‐side of Istanbul. Climb into your luxury air‐conditioned Mercedes minivan and settle in for a comfortable and fashionable ride. Meet your expert guide, a local who will educate you about Istanbul’s deep history. Stretch your legs at your first stop of the day, the Istanbul Archaeology Museum. Keep your eyes tuned to the intricate works in the exhibits as your guide explains their historical significance. Works in the museum date back as early as the 4th century. A set of handy headphones will allow you to hear your guide clearly amidst the crowds of other visitors. Pick up more fascinating insights from your guide en route to your next stop, such as the different rulers of Istanbul throughout history. See evidence of Roman, Ottoman, and Byzantine empires scattered throughout the streets today. Next, stop at Topkapi Palace, a sprawling work of architectural art built by 15th‐century sultans. Stroll the maze‐like quarters as you stumble upon gardens, fountains, vistas, and even the harem quarters. Listen to your guide tell stories of this unique time, and admire the intricate Ottoman décor. Satiate your appetite at Istanbul’s renowned Matbah restaurant, serving traditional Turkish delicacies during a 4‐course lunch. See the Itinerary for a sample menu. Once you’re re‐energized, continue to Chora Church, a stunning Byzantine‐era monastery. A tour of Istanbul would not be complete without a visit to Hagia Sophia, your final stop. Tour the museum’s Ottoman‐ and Byzantine‐era artifacts, admire the architecture, then climb back into your Mercedes van for a brief rest on the drive back to your Istanbul hotel.
What to Do in Istanbul at Night: Where Heritage Meets Hedonism
As dusk settles over the Bosphorus, the city transforms. If you’re wondering what to do in Istanbul at night, begin with cocktails at Mikla, a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views and a Nordic-Turkish tasting menu that’s as compelling as the skyline. Next, a cruise along the Bosphorus, passing under light-strung bridges alongside Ottoman palaces glowing in the night.
Unique Things to Do in Istanbul for the Sophisticated Explorer
While the Grand Bazaar often takes the limelight, explorers seeking unique things to do in Istanbul should head to the Çukurcuma neighborhood, a maze of antique shops, galleries, and the literary Museum of Innocence, based on the novel by Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk. If you’re chasing stories rather than souvenirs, a visit to this district is one of the best things you can do in Istanbul.
Take a private boat tour to the Princes’ Islands, where bicycles have replaced horse-drawn carriages, yet time still seems to slow. Alternatively, dive into Turkish craftsmanship with a bespoke Ebru (marbling art) workshop in an old han (inn), tucked away in the labyrinthine streets of Beyazıt.
What to See and Do in Istanbul Off the Beaten Track
Beyond the picture-postcard sights, a visit to the Istanbul Modern, Turkey’s premier contemporary art museum, now housed in a stunning new building by Renzo Piano on the Karaköy waterfront should be included on your list of what to see and do in Istanbul. Next, explore the Fener and Balat neighborhoods, once home to Greek Orthodox and Jewish communities, where faded mansions and pastel facades offer a visual feast.
For the spiritually inclined, don’t miss a Whirling Dervish ceremony in a historic tekke; this mesmerizing, meditative experience is one of the most memorable, must-do moments for any culture-seeker in Istanbul.
What to Do in Istanbul in Two Days: Culture, Cuisine, and Cruising
If you're lucky enough to have 48 hours to spend, deciding what to do in Istanbul becomes an elegant dance between tradition and trend. Day one: follow the classic trail through Sultanahmet, then enjoy a Turkish hammam at Hurrem Sultan Hamamı, a luxury experience that restores the soul.
Day two: begin the morning on the ferry to Üsküdar then take a walk to Maiden’s Tower, followed by a leisurely lunch in Moda. Afternoon tea at Pera Palace Hotel (where Agatha Christie once penned her best-selling mysteries) is a must for literature lovers, and sunset from Galata Tower offers a golden finale to your Istanbul itinerary.
Final Thoughts: The Art of Traveling in Istanbul
Deciding what to do in Istanbul is not about ticking boxes; it’s about embracing a city that’s equal parts poem and puzzle. Whether you’re wandering centuries-old alleyways or watching the city glitter from a rooftop bar, Istanbul’s every contradiction captivates. It’s a place where your senses — and your soul — will always be full.
The next time you find yourself asking what to do in Istanbul, know this: the answer is always unfolding, always surprising, and always worth returning to.