Istanbul Guide
Istanbul is a vibrant and bustling city at the intersection of Europe and Asia with a plethora of things to see and do. I fell in love instantly and spent three weeks in Turkey’s capital. In this Istanbul guide I have condensed the top things to do in Istanbul including 6 hidden gems. I will also answer some questions concerning topics of safety, dress codes and where to stay.
Istanbul is one of my favorite big cities (alongside London), and everyone I have met on my travels has told me they love it too!
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What to do in Istanbul – 15 top things to do (including 6 hidden gems in Istanbul)
Hagia Sophia
Probably Istanbul’s most famous tourist attraction: the Hagia Sophia is a breathtaking masterpiece in the sense that it is a testament to Istanbul’s rich history. Once a grand cathedral, then a mosque, it’s now a museum (but also still a mosque?). There are two entrances: one for Muslims that are looking to pray in the Hagia Sophia (this one is free) and one for the tourists, which comes with a hefty price tag.
Topkapi Palace
Close to the Hagia Sophia, you can immerse yourself in the opulent world of Ottoman sultans. Topkapi palace offers a mix of history, art, and culture packed into one stunning palace. From the Harem to the impressive Treasury, every corner holds a story.
Blue Mosque
This iconic mosque is as beautiful inside as it is outside – one could argue it’s actually more beautiful inside. The intricate blue tiles and stained glass windows create a truly magical atmosphere. Blue Mosque is officially called Sultanahmed Mosque and can be visited for free – just make sure to adhere to mosque dress code.
Dolmabahçe Palace
Another palace, but in a vastly different style from the Ottoman style Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace is a dazzling example of European architecture. Its grandeur and elegance are unmatched. Don’t miss the chance to explore its lavish rooms and gardens.
Grand Bazaar
Lose yourself in a labyrinth of shops and stalls. This grand marketplace (get it, Grand Bazaar?) offers everything from exquisite carpets to delicious Turkish delights and plenty of knock-off designer clothing. It’s a fun way to spend an hour or two browsing.
Workshops
Hands down my favorite activity in Istanbul: workshops! Discover local culture and your creative side by taking a workshop at Istanbul workshops. They offer various options, and I can gladly recommend all of them. For therapeutic creative relaxation, choose the Turkish mosaic lamp decorating workshop. If you’re a coffee lover or want to learn more about an integral part of Turkish culture, opt for the Turkish coffee making and fortune telling workshop. And if you love arts, but have very little space left in your luggage, do the stained glass painting workshop. Or even better: do all three – they’re worth it!
Egyptian Bazaar
Indulge your senses in this aromatic paradise. Filled with colorful spices, sweet treats, and traditional goods, the Egyptian Bazaar is a must-visit for foodies and souvenir hunters. It is smaller than the Grand Bazaar and more focused on edible goods over the materialistic choice at the Grand Bazaar.
Prince’s Islands
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle, which can sometimes be a bit chaotic and overwhelming, with a day trip to the Princes’ Islands. These peaceful islands offer beautiful beaches, charming villages, and a chance to relax and recharge. I personally visited Burgaz Island (Burgazada) on a day trip and can highly recommend it. Simply catch a ferry and enjoy amazing skyline views of Istanbul on the way there.
unofficial Bosphorus cruise
The Bosphorus is Istanbul’s lifeline. A boat ride on the Bosphorus offers stunning views of the city’s skyline, iconic bridges, and charming waterfront neighborhoods, but don’t pay for an overpriced cruise. Instead, ride the ferries and stay on for as long as your heart desires while they take you over the Bosphorus.
Nostalgic İstiklal Caddesi Tram, or Taksim-Tünel Tram
Take a step back in time on this iconic tram that runs along İstiklal Caddesi. Ride through the lively shopping street and soak up the atmosphere.
explore Moda’s cafés
Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s trendy side with a visit to Moda. This charming neighborhood boasts a vibrant café culture. Enjoy delicious coffee, people-watch, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere.
Galata Tower
It is possible to climb to the top of this iconic tower for panoramic views of Istanbul. It’s the perfect spot to capture unforgettable photos and appreciate the city’s beauty from a different perspective. If you’re not willing to pay the entrance fee, stick to exploring the area, admiring the tower from the ground or look into rooftop cafes / bars.
Basilica Cistern
Venture underground to discover this hidden wonder. With its towering columns and mysterious atmosphere, the Basilica Cistern is a fascinating glimpse into Istanbul’s past.
colorful houses
Wander through the colorful streets of Balat/Fener or Üsküdar. These historic neighborhoods are a photographer’s dream with their vibrant houses and bohemian vibe. Balat/Fener is more popular and houses more of the colorful houses, but it comes at the expense of more tourists. If you’re looking for a hidden gem and more peaceful atmosphere, visit the colorful houses in Üsküdar.
Beylerbeyi Palace
Escape the crowds and discover this hidden gem on the Asian side. This elegant summer palace offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Ottoman sultans without the crowds and price tags of Topkapi Palace and Dolmabahçe Palace.
How many days do I need in Istanbul?
I recommend spending between 5-7 days in Istanbul. The city is huge and there are so many things to do and see. It is possible to cram everything into a 3 day itinerary, but ideally you will spend some more days to properly enjoy Istanbul.
Is Istanbul safe?
Yes, I personally never felt unsafe, whether I was out alone as a female or with friends. Most locals are incredibly good-willed and helpful. Even on the Grand Bazaar, while a few merchants tried to sell me things it was always very light and not too pushy. The only thing to be wary of are tourist scams and pickpocketing. These are common in touristic areas, so always do your research and keep a close eye on your belongings.
What should I wear in Istanbul?
Unless you are planning to enter a mosque, where the dress code requires knees and shoulders (plus hair for women) to be covered, you are free to wear anything. However, on average, people dress a bit more modestly compared to the West. If you want to blend in more, I’d recommend long flowy pants over short skirts or hotpants. On average, cleavage seems to attract more attention than legs, so I’d also recommend not wearing low-cut tops if you want to avoid unnecessary attention.
Where to stay in Istanbul?
To understand where to stay, it is important to consider the geography of Istanbul. The Bosphorus divides the city into the European and the Asian side, while the Gold Horn splits the European part into two.
For the best access to the main tourist attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque, you should stay in Sultanahmet. Some of the top-rated hostels there are:
For more artsy vibes while still having great access to tourist attractions like Galata Tower and Dolmabahçe Palace and Taxim Square, check accommodation in Beyoglu. Some of the top-rated hostels there are:
The third area I can recommend for a stay in Istanbul is Kadiköy, and more specifically Moda. It is a very young area located on the Asian side with many university students living there and the cafés are amazing! While there are no major attractions located here, the area is one of the most pleasant ones to stay in. The top-rated hostels in Kadiköy are:
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