Things to do in Istanbul
Today, Dec 2, 2023
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Explore the Magic of Istanbul, Turkiye
Istanbul is a city full of breath-taking architectural sights, natural beauty and Islamic heritage and culture. If you are a true appreciator of history and culture, then planning a trip to Istanbul must be on the top of your vacation list. Istanbul is Turkey’s biggest city and has an ancient heritage of the famous Byzantine emperors and the Ottoman empire. There’s a wide array of things to visit and experience in Istanbul that won’t disappoint you a bit.
Here at TicketsToDo, we have curated some of the best activities and tourist attractions in Istanbul according to our travel experts. You can book some top attractions in Istanbul from us while planning a wholesome trip to Istanbul. Do not forget to check out the hidden gems section if you want to venture out on a unique aspect of the city!
What to do in Istanbul
Must-Have Experiences in Istanbul
Istanbul has a lot to offer when it comes to historical buildings, archaeology museums, or scenic beauty. We have discussed thoroughly with authentic destination guides and local families before picking out our favourite tourist attractions in Istanbul. Have your pick from our various list of the best activities and must-visit places in this glorious city!
Delve Deep into the Historical Richness and Museums in Istanbul
If you happen to be a history buff, then do not miss out on the chance of visiting the historically enriched architectural sites of Istanbul.
- Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) and Topkapi Palaces Museum top our list because of the Byzantian styles and textures. Hagia Sophia is a church turned mosque turned museum, and the latter used to be the administrative centre of the Ottoman empire. You can book your entry tickets for these places from TicketsToDo without any hassle.
- You should also take a stroll around the exquisite Basilica Cistern, an astonishing underground engineering piece from the Byzantine period.
- Visit the Blue Mosque at Sultan Ahmet Square or Rüstem Paşa mosque to behold the Islamic architectural beauty. You can also visit the glorious Süleymaniye Mosque that honours Suleyman the Magnificent.
Popular Places to Visit in Istanbul
- Your Istanbul trip can not be complete until you cruise the Bosphorus river. Get aboard the luxurious Bosphorus Cruise from Golden Horn and sail amidst the beautiful Bosphorus river.
- Walk down the trails in the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market to haul some exotic Turkish delight or Turkish coffee.
- Have a Turkish bath in a Hamam.
- Climb up the 60 meters high Galata Tower to have a panoramic view of the whole city, along with the Princes’ Island. Indulge in a walking tour down the Galata bridge as well.
- You can get a glimpse of Istanbul’s modernity while enjoying Istanbul’s nightlife or walking along Istiklal Street.
Hidden Gems in Istanbul
Apart from the popular spots, you can also include the Chora Church ( Kariye Museum), Archeology Museum, Gülhane Park, Beylerbeyi Palace or Dolmabahce Palace in the cultural tours. Taste the local street food in Istanbul or experience the whirling dervishes as part of your trip. Enjoy the top activities in Istanbul with the help of TicketsToDo!
FAQs
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What are the most popular things to do in Istanbul?
- Hagia Sophia
- The Blue Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
- Basilica Cistern
- Topkapi Palace Museum
- Galata Tower
- Suleymaniye Mosque
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Sultanahmet Square
- Istanbul Archaeological Museums
- Kariye Mosque
- Gülhane Park
- Beylerbeyi Palace
- Hop on Hop off Bosphorus Boat
- Istanbul Big Bus
- Princes' Islands Tours
- Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
- Pera Museum
- Istiklal Street
- Bosphorus Cruise Tours
- Eurail Pass for Turkey
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What should you not miss in Istanbul?
Istanbul is one of the most vibrant and fascinating cities in the world, so there is no shortage of things to do and see. Here are some of the highlights that you should not miss when visiting Istanbul:
- Visit the Hagia Sophia and explore its stunning Byzantine architecture.
- Admire the Blue Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in the world.
- Take a stroll along the Bosphorus and admire the city skyline.
- Check out the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman Sultans.
- Explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.
- Visit the Galata Tower and enjoy the incredible views of Istanbul from the top.
- Take a boat ride on the Golden Horn and admire the unique architecture of the city.
- Enjoy the nightlife in Beyoglu and sample the delicious local cuisine.
- Take a day trip to the Princes’ Islands and explore the picturesque villages.
- Visit Taksim Square and feel the energy of the city.
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Is WhatsApp allowed in Istanbul?
WhatsApp is currently banned in Turkiye, but users can still access the platform by using a VPN. In this article, we'll show you the best VPNs for WhatsApp in Turkiye and explain how to use them to bypass the restrictions.
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What social media is blocked in Turkiye?
Turkiye has blocked access to a number of social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. Additionally, the Turkish government has periodically blocked access to Wikipedia and other websites.
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What is there to do in Istanbul for 3 days?
For 3 days in Istanbul, there is an array of activities you can enjoy! You can visit iconic historical sites such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern. You can explore the bustling bazaars such as the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar. You can sample some of the delicious Turkish cuisines, take a boat ride on the Bosphorous and explore the city's nightlife scene. There are also many cultural activities and events to take part in, such as visiting a local hammam, watching a folk dance performance, or attending a film screening. No matter what you enjoy, you're sure to find something to do in Istanbul for 3 days! -
What are the most popular things to do in Istanbul with children?
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What is Istanbul famous for?
Istanbul is one of the world's most famous cities. It is renowned for its historical, cultural, and architectural heritage, as well as its vibrant nightlife and diverse cuisine. The city is the largest in Turkey and the country's economic, cultural, and historical center. It is home to numerous iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Galata Tower. Istanbul is also known for its vibrant art and music scene, with a wide range of galleries, clubs, and festivals. In short, Istanbul is a city of many influences and histories and is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
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Is it safe to visit Istanbul?
Yes, it is safe to visit Istanbul. Istanbul is one of the most visited cities in the world and is a popular destination for tourists. Istanbul has a strong security presence, with police and military personnel on the streets and at major tourist attractions. It is important to take normal safety precautions when travelling to any destination, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding dark and isolated areas, and carrying only the necessary items.
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Is it worth visiting?
Yes, it is definitely worth visiting! Depending on what you are looking for, the experience can be both enjoyable and informative. Visiting a new location offers the opportunity to explore a new culture, environment, and history. You can also take advantage of the local attractions and activities, as well as the culinary and nightlife options. Ultimately, it's a great way to make memories that will last a lifetime!
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When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
The best time to visit Istanbul is during the spring and autumn months. The weather is generally mild and the days are long and sunny, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the sights. The crowds tend to be smaller during these months, so you're more likely to find cheaper flights and accommodation. This also makes it a great time to visit attractions such as the Grand Bazaar and Hagia Sophia. Keep in mind that the city can get quite busy during the summer months, so it's wise to plan your trip accordingly.
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How is the weather in Istanbul?
The weather in Istanbul is typically mild and humid with temperatures ranging from 5 to 25 degrees Celsius. Winter temperatures can drop to -5 degrees Celsius and summer temperatures can reach up to 35 degrees Celsius. The winter months are usually wet, while the summer months are usually dry and sunny.
