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Best Things to do in Istanbul (2024)

Looking for the best things to do in Istanbul? Istanbul has one of the highest concentrations of “must-see” sights than any other city in the world.

We’ve put together all the best Istanbul attractions to help you make the most of your time in a city that spans two continents. 

Turkish shoe shine men with their golden organ shaped shoe shining platforms.

Don’t Forget to Get a Turkish Visa Before You Leave

One of the most important tips for travelling to Turkey is your visa. Most non-Turkish nationals will require a tourist visa to enter Turkey. The new e-Visa system makes it very straightforward to obtain a Turkish visa online. 

You can check your visa requirement and apply online here and have your visa in less than an hour in most cases. 

Visiting Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most accessible cities to explore. With some of the best places to visit in Turkey in the city, many of the most famous Istanbul landmarks are within walking distance.

Whether you do a self-guided tour or take an Istanbul Old City walking tour, even if you only had one day in Istanbul, you can still tick off many of the most famous Istanbul attractions. 

However, a few days or more is recommended for Istanbul as there is so much to see and do beyond the most famous attractions and landmarks. 

RELATED: A Locals Guide to Istanbul

A man selling chestnuts from a colourful cart in a busy square in Istanbul.

Airport Transfer Tip in Istanbul

Save the hassle of getting from the airport to Istanbul city.

A shared airport transfer will meet you at the arrivals hall and transfer you in comfort directly to your hotel for as little as $24. Departures leave every 30 mins in peak season and every 60 minutes in low season. Perfect for late or early morning arrivals or departures. Get details here.

A man carrying tray of bagels on a tray on his head through the streets.

Plan Your Istanbul Sightseeing Itinerary

With so much to see and do in Istanbul, we advise having a bit of a plan before you arrive, especially if you are short on time.

Consider any of the more popular attractions you may want to visit. Arriving early at these attractions, especially in peak season, is advisable, as is buying skip-the-line tickets in advance for popular attractions such as Hagia Sophia or Topkapi Palace.

Tip: Check opening times in advance, as some of Istanbul’s best attractions close on at least one day of the week. Having a bit of a plan can save a few hours of your precious time in Istanbul over the course of a day. 

Famous red Istanbul tram coming past street stall cart selling chestnuts.

Guided Tours of Istanbul

Discovering Istanbul’s best attractions independently is fantastic, especially if you have lots of time. However, we have found taking at least one tour is sometimes the best and most efficient way to see Istanbul. Especially if you are short on time and want to see a lot.

Many walking tours of the Old City are inexpensive and take the hassle out of queueing for tickets at the top Istanbul attractions, especially in peak season.

A boat on a Bosphorus river cruise in Istanbul with the city in the background at sunset.
  • Many tours offer Skip The Line service with pre-purchased tickets.
  • At sights like the Blue Mosque, where there is no ticketing, your guide will know the best time to get you there, to ensure minimal waiting and maximum time inside.
  • You can tap into the local knowledge for information on the best places to eat during your stay.
  • A good guide knows each attraction intimately, so can whizz you through to the good bits and know how to dodge the crowds while not missing out on anything.
  • Many tours will collect you from your hotel.
  • A short walking tour can cover a lot of great attractions and help you get your bearings for your own explorations.
The famous red tram heading down the centre of pedestrian street in Taksim.

Best Things to do in Istanbul

Tip for Visiting the Best Istanbul Attractions: An Istanbul Pass offers skip-the-line access to Istanbul’s best attractions, including free guided tours at the top sites, discounted entries, discounted one way airport transfer, and more. You can choose from 3, 5, or 7 Day passes. Get full details here.

Sultanahmet Square

Sultanahmet Square, also known as Hippodrome, is at the centre of Old Town Istanbul – the heart of the Old City and the central point for the best Istanbul sightseeing.

The compact and relatively traffic-free area of Sultanahmet makes it easy to explore Istanbul’s best attractions on foot, including the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia and The Blue Mosque.

More than just a great meeting place and starting point for exploring all the best things to see in Istanbul, Sultanahmet square has some important points of interest. 

People carefully walking across the snow covered Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul.

Things to See in Sultanahmet Square

Hippodrome of Constantinople

Sultanahmet Square was the original setting of the Hippodrome of Constantinople. A public venue for chariot races, athletic events and political activities back when the city was known as Constantinople.

The social centre of Istanbul, the Hippodrome, was 450m long with a U-shaped racetrack and spectator stands capable of holding 100,00 people. 

Stone and metal fence surrounding the obelisk in the Hippodrome in  Istanbul.

The Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpentine Column

The Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpentine Column (or what remains of it) still stands in the square as reminders of past rulers and the glory days of the Hippodrome.

Theodosius the Great bought the Obelisk from Egypt in the 4th century. To transport it, he had the original work cut into three pieces and erected the top section on a marble pedestal where it has stood in near-perfect condition for 3500 years.

Like Theodosius, Constantine endeavoured to raise the image of his new capital by erecting works of art in the centre of the Hippodrome. The Serpentine Column was commissioned to celebrate the victory of the Greeks over the Persians.

The blue twirling remains of the Serpentine Column one of the oldest Istanbul attractions.

Hagia Sophia Museum

Hagia Sofia is, without a doubt, an Istanbul must-see. Built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 537 as an Eastern Orthodox Cathedral, St Sophia has had many lives. Aside from a brief period between 1204 and 1261 when it was converted into a Roman Catholic Cathedral, the building remained Orthodox until 1453.

It was then Hagia Sophia became a mosque until 1931, when it was secularised and opened as a museum in 1935. In 2020, Hagia Sophia was controversially returned to the status of a working mosque by president Erdogan. This means that the building no longer retains museum status and, much like the Blue Mosque, will be run by clerics rather than museum curators.

Looking down through the chandeliers at the people walking around the Hagia Sophia mosque.

The largest cathedral in the world for nearly a thousand years, Hagia Sofia is considered one of the greatest architectural marvels and a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.

In a constant state of repair and restoration, the spectacular interior will leave you in awe as soon as you walk in the door.

Chandeliers hang beneath intricately painted frescoes on the roof of Hagia Sophia.

The entire building still bears impressive representations from all of her inhabitants, from the mosaics and paintings of Jesus, Mary and the Saints to Islamic features such as the four minarets.

Hagia Sophia Opening Times and Entry

  • As Hagia Sophia is no longer a museum, it is free to enter, as with all mosques in Istanbul.
  • It is open daily from 9.00 am – 5.00 pm but will close to tourists during prayer times.

Hagia Sophia Visit Recommendations 

  • As with any mosque, modest dress for both men and women and a headscarf for women will be required on entry, and you will need to remove your shoes.
  • Friday is not the best time to visit as it will be busy with local worshippers.
  • The mosque may close 1 hour before prayer times and reopen half an hour after prayer, so factor this into your timings.

Basilica Cistern

Another initiative of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian- the Basilica Cistern, built in the 6th century, is only 500 meters from Hagia Sophia. It is the largest of several hundred cisterns beneath the city of Istanbul.  

Historical archives claim it took 7,000 slaves to build the structure. At what price clean water? A timeless question, it would seem.

The dimly lit columns rising from the water in the Basilica Cistern.

Construction of the Basilica Cistern

To put the size of the cistern into perspective:

  • The cathedral-size cistern is approximately 138 meters x 65 meters.
  • Is capable of holding around 80,000 cubic meters of water.
  • It requires 336 carefully spaced marble columns to support the cathedral-style ceiling.

Most of the carved marble pillars are believed to be recycled ruins from other parts of the empire, including leftovers from Hagi Sophia. It is undoubtedly an impressive water-holding facility.

The Basilica Cistern Tear Column

There are some interesting features in the Basilica Cistern. One is a single column carved with pictures of a hen’s eye, slanted branches, and tears. It resembles the columns of the Triumphal Arch of Theodosius, and the tears pay tribute to the hundreds of slaves who died during the cistern construction.

Columns with tears and hens eyes carved into them in the Basilica Cistern.

Medusa Heads of the Basilica Cistern

Another unique feature of the cistern is the two columns that have pedestals with the appearance of Medusa carved into them. While it is assumed these carvings were repurposed from another building, there is no evidence they were used as pedestals. What is unsure is the intention behind their placement.

One Medusa sits on her side –  Ancient urban myth states it was to negate the power of the Gorgon’s Gaze said to turn one to stone. This theory is often rejected in favour of the opinion the placement was for no other reason than being the correct size to support the column.

Why the other Medusa upside-down is unknown – she would be the same size upright.

For film fans, the Basilica Cistern also leaves its mark on popular culture. The cistern has been used in several films, most notably in the 1963 Bond film, From Russia With Love and, more recently, the Tom Hanks film Inferno.

Basilica Cistern Tour Recommendations 

Skip-the-line tickets with a guided tour of the Basilica Cistern are a great option and are highly recommended during busy tourist times. Get details here.

Combine Istanbul’s most important monuments in one afternoon, including the Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Get details here

Include the famous Topkapi Palace with a Hagia Sophia, Topkapi & Basilica Combo Ticket


Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was built in 1459 by Sultan Mehmed II. For nearly 400 years during the Ottoman period, the palace was the primary residence of  Sultans.

Named by UNESCO as one of the finest examples of palaces of the Ottoman period, it is now a museum and popular tourist attraction.

The ornate golden gate entering the Topkapi Palace Istanbul Turkey.

The palace complex consists of four main courtyards and several smaller buildings, once home to as many as 4,000 people. The small city within the city contained everything it required to be self-sustaining, including mosques, bakeries and a mint.

Looking through the arches of Topkapi Palace at the domes of Blue Mosque.

The palace has impressive collections of porcelain, clocks, weapons, shields and armour, and some of the most precious jewels in the world. There are also important Muslim holy relics such as Muhammed’s cloak and sword. 

In the Mohamed Chamber, you will find a small booth where local Imam’s recite passages from the Quran around the clock, as it has been done continuously for 500 years. 

Gilded and painted domed ceiling inside the Topkapi Palace.

Topkapi Palace Tour Recommendations 

Expect long lines during peak season. A Skip the Line ticket with a 1 hr guided included tour is recommended to make the most of your time. Get details here.

Take a half-day guided tour of the Topkapi Palace with skip-the-line tickets and finish with a guided tour of the Grand Bazaar. Get details here. Or, take advantage of a Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace Combo Ticket.


Blue Mosque

Sultanahmet Camii in Turkish, the Blue Mosque, was built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Ahmed I.

Named for the 20,000 blue Iznik tiles around the interior walls, the Blue Mosque is still a functioning mosque, one of the most iconic Istanbul landmarks, and one of the most popular things to see in Istanbul.

A fountain in front of the 4 spires and Blue Mosque on a clear day.

Tips for Visiting the Blue Mosque

Entry Fee

  • There is no cost to enter the Blue Mosque.
  • There is the option to donate towards the maintenance of the mosque at the exit door. A contribution is not compulsory, but a receipt will be given for any donations made.
  • The Blue Mosque is only open to visitors outside prayer times, leaving only small windows for visiting, so be prepared for long queues and crowds.

Important Tip: Be wary of anyone offering entry to the mosque without having to queue up. They will most likely be angling to sell you something or lure you to a shop. It is best to line up with everyone else. Don’t worry if the line looks long; they move everyone along quickly to get you through before the next prayer time.

Stain glass windows look down an men praying in the Blue Mosque, in Istanbul.

Blue Mosque Opening Times for Visitors

  •  Prayer is five times a day, lasting 90 minutes.
  • The mosque is closed on Friday mornings for Friday prayer.

Blue Mosque Dress Code

Remove Your Shoes

As you enter, you will be required to remove your shoes and given a plastic bag free of charge to place them in. It is required of all persons as part of Muslim tradition when entering any mosque.

Dress Code for Ladies: 

  • All ladies must wear head coverings. We always recommend travelling with a lightweight travel scarf for this purpose. If you don’t have a scarf, they are available at entry, free of charge.
  • The scarf is only to cover the hair, not the face. Place the scarf on your head, hanging equally on both sides. Take one side and wrap it around your neck, tossing it over your back to cover your shoulders.
  • Skirts or shorts need to be well below the knee.

Dress Code for Men:

  • Men need to wear pants that cover the knee. Anything above the knee is not acceptable.

Related: How to Dress Like a Local When You Travel. Tips on how to dress appropriately when you travel to avoid standing out. Especially in conservative countries.

Street stalls on both sides of the walkway with people walking to the Blue Mosque.

The Grand Bazaar Istanbul

Lose yourself in one of Istanbul’s most vibrant attractions –  the Grand Bazaar.
The Grand Bazaar was commissioned by Mehmet II after the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul in 1453 to provide financial resources for Hagia Sophia.

Colourful lanterns in a stall at the Grand Bazaar Istanbul.

Covering an area of 54,653 square meters, with 61 covered streets and 3,000 shops, it is the oldest and largest covered bazaar in the world. The Grand Bazaar is also listed as number one among the world’s most visited tourist attractions and is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Istanbul.

People walking into the Old Bazaar in Istanbul with hundreds of lanterns in a display next to the entry.

Imagine a shopping mall over 550 years old, employing over 26,000 people, with anywhere from 250,000 – 400,000 visitors daily. These are impressive stats by any score.
Amazingly, there seems to be an order to the chaos of the ancient Bazaar –A small city that operates within the city.

Istanbul’s premier souvenir shopping spot, you can find almost anything at the Grand Bazaar, including Turkish rugs, gold, lanterns, and antiques.

Istanbul Bazaar Tour Recommendations 

If you are in the market for a specific souvenir from Istanbul, such as gold or a Turkish rug, we recommend taking a guided shopping tour in the Grand Bazaar. The Bazaar is overwhelming at the best of times, so it can be easy to get hustled when bartering for a quality item. 

A private shopping guide will be able to advise on the best vendors for the item you want to buy and help you get a bearing on what prices you should be paying. They can also help in the process of arranging international delivery. 

A guided tour of the Bazaar is also a great way to learn the history and stories behind the old shopping mall. 

A half-day guided shopping tour of the Grand Bazaar with an independent English-speaking guide will ensure you get the best deals and the most authentic goods. Get details here

If you don’t want a shopping experience but still want to discover the fascinating culture of the Bazaar, take a half-day Grand Bazaar Walking tour which includes a workshop on the ancient tradition of gold melting. Get details here

A Turkish man with a goatee beard wearing a heavy coat and a beanie selling vases in the the Bazaar Istanbul.

SAFE TRAVEL TIP: As with any crowded or tourist-dense attractions, always watch your personal belongings in the Grand Bazaar. Letting your guard down only takes a small distraction in such an overwhelming environment.

Read our safe travel guides for tips on avoiding pickpockets and the best anti-theft travel gear for travel.

We did say you can find almost anything in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar.

Three small spy cameras for sale in the Istanbul Bazaar.

Istanbul Spice Bazaar

The Istanbul Spice Bazaar, also known as The Egyptian Bazaar was built in 1660 with revenue from the Ottoman Eyalet in Egypt.

Many people fill the dark corridors of the Spice Bazaar with colourful spice stalls lining the walkways.

There are nearly 100 shops in the Spice Bazaar selling spices, sweets, teas, and many other exotic foods and trinkets. It is easy to become overwhelmed by the heady aromas and buzzing market atmosphere.

Buy Authentic Turkish Delight

For authentic Turkish delight, the spice market is where you come. Enthusiastic vendors will be vying for your business which quickly becomes confusing. If you want to purchase quality, authentic Turkish Delight, don’t make the mistake of being worn down and sold the cheap stuff on display in front of many stores.

A display of colourful and aromatic teas in the Spice Bazaar Istanbul.

Find a quality store, head inside, and you will find the real deal, handmade Turkish Delight. Made organically, with honey to sweeten, it will, without a doubt, be more expensive. Hand pick your assortment of flavours, and they will pack them specifically to travel.

The good shops will serve Turkish tea and allow you to sample the product to help you decide what you like. There’s nothing quite like sipping tea and tasting delicious sweets in one of the world’s oldest spice markets.

Spice Market Tour Recommendations

If you are interested in visiting the Spice Market with a guide, it is a great way to find the best stores and learn about traditional products. It is also helpful if you want to buy some beautifully packaged authentic Turkish Delight to take home. 

Combine a 3 hr Istanbul Walking Tour taking in many of Istanbul’s most famous attractions and finishing in the ancient Spice Market. Get details here.

Discover the traditional delicacies of Istanbul on a private full-day guided food tour. Starting in the Spice Market, the tour takes you through some of Istanbul’s most famous marketplaces and speciality stores. Get details here.


Galata

For the best 360 views of Istanbul, head to the Galata Tower in the Galata neighbourhood. From the top of the 60-metre tower, you can see as far as the Princes’ Islands on a good day.

A large flock of birds flying around Galata tower.

There is a cafe on the 9th floor of the tower; however, the neighbourhood of Galata is buzzing with great shopping, restaurants, and cafes, it would be a shame to miss the atmosphere of this charming neighbourhood.

There are lovely terraces and squares surrounding the tower where you can enjoy Turkish coffee and great local food at a reasonable price. It’s a fabulous part of Istanbul for the atmosphere and people-watching.

Narrow view of Galata tower between two buildings.

Dolmabahçe Palace

On the European side of Istanbul is the Dolmabahçe Palace, built between 1843 and 1856 by the 31st Sultan, Adülmecid I.

The objective – a palace with the same contemporary style, luxury, and comfort as the European Monarchs. Something the medieval Topkapi Palace could not match.

White and blue facade with columns and arched entry of Dolmabahçe Palace Istanbul.

Dolmabahçe Palace, the largest palace in Turkey, comprises three parts; the Imperial Mabeyn or State Apartments, the Ceremonial Hall, and the Imperial Harem.

In the sultan’s bid to match the contemporary opulence of his European counterparts, construction of the palace cost the equivalent of $1.5 billion in current terms – approximately a quarter of the yearly tax revenue.

The construction cost put a tremendous financial burden on the Ottoman Empire, leading to eventual state bankruptcy.

Close up view of the windows and carved columns on the Dolmabahçe Palace exterior.

The palace is decorated extensively with gold and crystal. The decor includes fourteen tons of gold leaf to gild the ceilings and the world’s biggest crystal chandelier, a gift from Queen Victoria.

The palace is also famous for the Crystal Staircase, made from Baccarat crystal, brass and mahogany in the shape of a horseshoe. Unfortunately, as with all of the Palaces in Turkey, no interior photographs are permitted.

Snow around small lake and fountain outside Dolmabahçe Palace with the Bosphorus in the distance.

Dolmabahçe was home to six Sultans until 1924. Ownership was transferred to the national heritage of the new Turkish Republic, founded by Mustafa Atatürk.

Atatürk used the palace as a presidential residence during the summers and spent his final days of medical treatment there until his death in 1938. All the clocks in the palace read 9.05 am to honour the time of his death.

Skip the Line ticket with a guided tour is recommended to make the most of your visit, especially during peak season. Get details here.

Exterior of the Dolmabahçe Palace on a clear winters day. There is snow on the ground.

Istiklal Avenue

Described as the Champs Elysees of Istanbul, the 1.4 km long pedestrian street is the heart of modern Istanbul.

It seems Istiklal Avenue always has a steady flow of locals, coming to shop on the street where local traders remain, nestled amongst international chain stores.

Take the historic tram to Taksim Square to see the Monument of the Republic.

A crowded street with a red tram coming through a throng of people.

The Golden Horn

Take a drive along the shores of the Golden Horn. Contrary to what one might first assume, this major urban waterway is not named for the curved shape of the estuary but for the golden glow left on the water when the sun sets on the city of Istanbul.

Visit the Greek and Jewish Neighbourhood of Fener

An old building with men standing around out the front chatting in the Fener District Istanbul.

Along the Golden Horn is the district of Fener, home to a large Greek and Jewish population. After the fall of Constantinople, Fener became home to the many Greeks of the city as well as the Greek Patriarchate.
Since 1586, the Orthodox Patriarchate has maintained its headquarters in this relatively modest church in Fener and is also said to hold remnants of the shackles which bound Christ.

Sun rays coming through the window into the ornate interior of a Greek Orthodox church.

Discover the Two Continents of Istanbul

One of the most common questions asked about Turkey is – what continent is Turkey in? In Istanbul, they will proudly tell you, “Both!”
Nowhere else in Turkey is the divide more apparent than in Istanbul, where the city spans the two continents. The Bosphorus Strait divides the city of Istanbul into the Asian and European sides of Istanbul.

On either side of Istanbul’s famous Bosphorus Bridge, you will see signs welcoming you to Europe or Asia. While geographically, it might appear a little untidy, for the traveller, it is a fun indulgence knowing you can tick off two continents in one day.

Ornate traditional boats with golden domed roofs floating on the Bosphorus river with seagulls flying above.

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

What better way to take in the two continents of Istanbul than a Bosphorus boat tour?
A cruise down the Strait and under the Bosphorus Bridge allows you to look back on Istanbul for a new perspective while enjoying some quiet amidst the chaos.

Istanbul city from a Bosphorus boat tour. Galata tower rises above the city skyline.

There are many ways you can enjoy a Bosphorus cruise. From private luxury yachts to dinner cruises. 

A small island and church float in the middle of the Bosphorus river.

Camlica Hill.

Cross the famous Bosphorus Bridge – one of the world’s largest suspension bridges, to the Asian side and Camlica Hill. Camlica Hill, the highest peak in Istanbul, commands magnificent views of the Bosphorus, old Istanbul, and Galata.

The view over Istanbul and the Bospherus from snow covered Camlica Hill.

Standing on top of Camlica Hill gives you a little perspective of the enormity of the city of Istanbul. A favourite spot on weekends for locals. The beautiful gardens and tea rooms make it an ideal escape from the city for lunch and, of course, with views like this, popular for weddings.

Outside dining tables and chairs sitting in the snow at Camlica Hill.

Visit Caferağa Medresseh

The Madrasa is like a school for the arts with more than a dozen courses on offer, including the popular Turkish art of marbling known as Ebru.

man doing ebru painting in Cafer Aga Madrasa Art College in Istanbul. looking for unique things to see and do in istanbul then pay this art college a visit.

See a demonstration of the intricate art form. The piece’s creation, which is set to beautiful traditional music, is quite mesmerising, watching the delicate picture unfold as if telling a story.

framed paintings on a wall in Cafer Aga Madrasa Art College in Istanbul. this is where you come to learn the arts like a local

Offering everything from Ottoman language courses to calligraphy and reed flute (Ney), Caferaga Madrasa has become a popular place for both Turkish and foreigners to study traditional Turkish arts.

Istanbul Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Istanbul

Istanbul experiences very hot summers and cold winters, with snow being quite common.

The shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to mid-November) are the best times to visit Istanbul. It is also the best time to visit all of Europe

Temperatures are pleasant, and the crowds at the city’s major attractions are a little more manageable than the peak tourist months of June to late August.

Accommodation prices from June through August will also be a little more inflated.

Istanbul Tulip Festival

In spring, the city comes alive with a brilliant display of colour thanks to millions of tulips planted by the government. The annual Istanbul Tulip Festival is held throughout April.

Where To Stay in Istanbul

Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet (the old town of Istanbul) is the best place to stay in Istanbul for first-timers. All of the most popular Istanbul attractions are within walking distance, which is very convenient.

Expect to find traditional boutique hotels such as the restored 19th century Ottoman boutique hotel – Dersaadet Hotel. From here, you can easily access all attractions and the best restaurants in the Sultanahmet area. Search more Sultanahmet hotels here

antique chairs around a lit coloured glass table in Dersaadet Hotel Istanbul Turkey. old city istanbul is the place to stay in istanbul as it will give you easy access to the top 10 things to see and do in istanbul

Beyoğlu

Beyoğlu is a lively area that is still within easy reach of many main attractions. Home to Dolmabahçe Palace and Galata with the famous tower, Istiklal Caddesi, etc. Beyoğlu is known for its cosy neighbourhoods, a wide array of restaurants and cafés, and famous Istanbul nightlife. Search Beyoglu hotels here.

Taksim

You will find high-end hotels such as the Hyatt and Hilton in Taksim and Istiklal Avenue, the busiest street in Istanbul. Another lively area with both visitors and locals, there is easy access to the main attractions by metro and tram. Search Taksim Hotels here

Search Accommodation Deals in Istanbul

Day Trips From Istanbul

  • Full-day trip from Istanbul to the ancient city of Troy | 15 hours | Get Details
  • Istanbul to Gallipoli full-day trip | 18 hrs Get Details
  • Full day Princes Islands Tour with lunch | 9 hrs | Get Details
  • Istanbul to Green Bursa full-day tour with lunch | 12 hrs Get Details

What to Pack for Istanbul

While not an extensive list of what to pack for Istanbul, we recommend a few items.

  • A scarf is almost essential for ladies as you will visit religious sites where modest clothing is required. A unisex scarf is a handy travel companion for men to guard against the sun or sudden weather changes. 
  • Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes. We recommend a pair that can take you from sightseeing to a casual dinner for easy packing.
  • An anti-theft handbag or backpack is a travel essential, especially in busy tourist cities such as Istanbul.
  • And while the call to prayer has never sounded as beautiful as it does in Istanbul, it may not be so welcome at four in the morning, so a good set of travel earplugs will be a welcome addition.
  • For a city like Istanbul, we recommend throwing a few packets of Stall Mates in your bag. After all, public toilets are one of the less glamorous sides of travel, and Istanbul is no exception. 

Read Our Guides to the Best Anti theft Travel Gear Here

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