One of the most magical places to visit in the world, Istanbul is a charming city. It is strategically located, linking the eastern and western regions of the world. If you plan to visit the country be prepared for its cultural diversity and the amazing structures strewn all around it. Having been home to the Romans, the Greeks, and Venetians, the city is blessed with artistic riches, majestic palaces and churches, magnificently adorned mosques, grand museums, stunning art galleries and many more. You can enjoy beautiful festivals, savor delicious local and international cuisines at world-class restaurants, experience the unique way of life and culture of the people, and have an utterly fantastic experience. To make the most of your trip, and to have a fantastic time in a country where the east meets the west, know the best places to visit in Istanbul, Turkey.
1. Aya Therapon Church - contributed by Tour Guide, Dilek Orubegarcia
Aya Therapon Church is a great attraction in Sirkeci that shouldn’t be missed during your trip to Istanbul. This Greek Orthodox church is on the left side of the tram line from Gülhane Park to Hagia Sophia.
Open only on Mondays, the church often goes unnoticed by the thousands of people passing by daily. It features spring water from four fountains inside, believed to be beneficial for individuals with eye problems and mental depression. Visitors participate in a healing ritual where, after the priest’s reading, they wash their hands and faces with the ayazma water, light candles, and express their hopes for recovery from illnesses.
Aya Therapon Church
Address: Cankurtaran, Alemdar Cd. No:32, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
2. Istanbul Museum of Modern Art - contributed by Tour Guide, Dilek Orubegarcia
Istanbul Museum of Modern Art is Turkey’s first modern and contemporary art museum and is located in Galataport. For tourists arriving in Istanbul via cruise ships with limited time, a short tour of this art museum adjacent to the harbor is an excellent option.
Spanning 10,500 square meters (113,020.95 square feet) across five floors, the museum features exhibitions and programs. It also boasts spacious exhibition halls, versatile multipurpose spaces, offices, educational areas, and various regions dedicated to cultural events and other activities.
Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
Address: Kılıçali Paşa, Tophane İskele Cd. No:1/1, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Website: Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
Opening hours: Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, and Sun: 10am - 6pm; Fri: 10am - 8pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 150 TRY (5 USD)
3. İstanbul Naval Museum - contributed by Tour Guide, Dilek Orubegarcia
Istanbul Naval Museum is the largest maritime museum in Turkey and one of the few museums with such a diverse collection. There are approximately 20,000 artefacts here. It’s also affiliated with the Naval Forces Command and is the first military museum established in Turkey.
The 4 large halls and 17 rooms within the building were used as exhibition areas, and the halls were named after the wind directions. In the museum, you can check out sultanate boats, sailor clothes, manuscripts, ship models, banners, maps and portolans, paintings, monograms and coats of arms, galleys, navigation instruments, ship head figures and weapons. In the entrance section, there is an educational playground suitable for young age groups and a souvenir section as well.
The entrance fee is 50 TRY (1.68 USD) for adults. It’s free of charge for students aged 0-18, and for students aged 19-25, it’s 25 TRY (0.84 USD). The museum is closed on Mondays.
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4. Tophane-i Amire Sanjak Tower - contributed by Tour Guide, Dilek Orubegarcia
Sanjak Towers are the towers where armies used to erect their flags in the past. Tophane-i Amire Sanjak Tower was one of them. Now, it is used as a clock tower. The tower was built by Sultan Abdülmecid between 1848-1849.
It is thought that the tower, which is associated with the Tophane Pavilion built by Sultan Abdülmecid in the same place, was built by the Balyans. It is accepted that it was built by Sultan Abdülmecid because of the monogram on it. Although an engraving by Robert Walsh dated 1839 indicates that there was probably a tower with a wooden structure here in earlier periods, it is not known who built the previous tower.
When the tower was erected, the sea was right in front of it. Due to the effect of the starboard mast on it and the shifting of the ground on the part facing the sea, the tower tilted 1.5 degrees towards the sea over time. In this state, it resembled the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy.
Istanbul Tour Guide
Rose The Guide
Professional Tour / Travel Guide and Photographer Certified by Turkish Republic Ministry of Culture and Tourism. I am a knowledgeable and motivated individual with years of experience in organizing group tours in several areas; have the ability to motivate different sets of audience; have the ability to communicate effectively and possess high degree of energy and enthusiasm.
Istanbul Tour Guide
Dilek Orubegarcia
My name is Dilek, a national-licensed tour guide. I am 40 years old and have been guiding for 12 years. My husband is from Mexico as a Mexican Turkish family and with our two young kids we live in Istanbul. When I don't work I spend most of my time outdoor with my family, enjoying Istanbul as much as we can. We go out, try to discover new restaurants, new museums, art galleries, children's acti... Read more
Istanbul Tour Guide
Safiye Kaban
Hi there, this is Safiye from istanbul. I am a professional licensed tour guide and travel expert over 12 years. I have guided thousands of travellers from all around the world. I love meeting with new people, making new friends and building bridges. I orgnize cultural, historical, shopping and food tours to small groups, I mostly guide to private tours. I am also a foodie, I love discovering n... Read more
Istanbul Tour Guide
Guide Hamide
Hello, everyone! I'm Hamide, a professional tour guide in Istanbul. I studied archeology, mithology, history of art, anatolia, and religions. After my bachelors' degree graduation, I started to work in Cappadocia for 4 years. I came and settled in Istanbul when I realised that Istanbul has a very deep history, a unique multiple culture and stunning geography! I still keep experiencing new taste... Read more
Tours by Guide
5. Suleymaniye Mosque
One of the most popular and recognized landmarks in Istanbul is the Suleymaniye Mosque. With its hilltop location, this majestic mosque overlooks the Sultanahmet district. It was built between 1549 and 1575 by the famous Ottoman architect, Sinan, for Suleyman the Magnificent. This mosque has a stunningly beautiful exterior, with an equally amazing interior space. Richly decorated, the mosque’s interior is characterized by its high dome and intricate design. Outside the main building, there is a gorgeous and peaceful garden, which also houses the Ottoman Cemetery.
Tip from tour guide
Suleymaniye Mosque is one of the most important examples of Classical Ottoman Architecture built in 1550. Although Istanbul has witnessed more than a hundred earthquakes since its construction, there has not been the slightest crack in the walls of this mosque.
The mosque has a rectangular floor plan and is surrounded by a large courtyard, which is enclosed by a colonnade of domed porticoes. Its central dome is the largest and highest in Istanbul, measuring 53 meters in height and 27.5 meters in diameter. It's also one of the most filmed monumental gates of Istanbul. Is the most impressive part of it the gate, the dome, or the view? It's hard to decide, honestly.
6. Galata Tower (from USD 108.44)
A tourist favorite, Galata Tower, is a must-visit on your trip to Istanbul. This beautiful and towering structure stands on a hill in the Beyoglu district and overlooks the entire city. The tower was built in the 14th century after the original one was destroyed in the early 13th century. The tower was used as an observatory, and even today, the views from this place are astonishing. You can take a three-hour trip through the bubbling streets of the city to the tower and be entertained by all its myths, legends, and history.
Istanbul: Galata – Genoese Walking Tour
Duration: 4.0 hour
7. Istanbul Archaeological Museum
Sitting just a short walk from the iconic Topkapi Palace is one of the most famous museums in the city, the Istanbul Archeological Museum. Step out of the luxurious grandness of the palace and step right into a stunning collection of artifacts from all over the Middle East. This museum complex displays items that tell the rich history of the region and how it grew to become the global giant that it is today. Enjoy admiring the impressive vintage items as well as a few other recent works, including ceramic art.
8. Dolmabahce Palace (from USD 82.0)
If you want to see the very best of European decoration and architectural design in the city, then you shouldn’t miss a visit to this palace. Luxurious and lavishly built, this castle was constructed in 1854 by Sultan Abdülmecid I, and was formerly the principal residence of the sultans. The spot has beautiful and tranquil gardens with fountains, blooming flowers, and ornamental basins. Its interior space is excellently styled with frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and boasts of a dazzling mix of Rococo, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Ottoman influenced decorations and furniture. You can take a three-hour guided tour of the entire palace and admire all its extravagance.
Istanbul Dolmabahce Palace Half-Day Tour with Admission
Duration: 3 hours
9. Beylerbeyi Palace (from USD 75.0)
Although it is smaller than the Dolmabahce Palace, the Beylerbeyi Palace is just as elaborate and spectacular as the former. Built by Sultan Abdülaziz as a royal summer residence, this castle has a lavish, well-decorated interior and a pristine white marble exterior. Inside the building, you will find several captivating nautical-themed paintings, Bohemian crystal chandeliers, French clocks, a beautiful twisting central staircase, grand rooms, and halls with regal furniture, and so much more. There is a half-day tour that takes you through the palace’s interiors, its lovely garden café, and several pavilions where you can relax and enjoy the sights.
Half-Day Afternoon Istanbul Asia Tour With Beylerbeyi Palace
Duration: 4 hours
10. Hagia Sophia Museum (from USD 140.0)
Without a doubt, The Hagia Sophia (now referred to as The Aya Sofya) is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the entire country. This iconic monument was one of the biggest cathedrals in the world. With its stunning architecture, unparalleled interior opulence, and symbolic significance, the institution is the crowning evidence of the Byzantine wealth and technical excellence. Initially a church, it was converted into a mosque before being turned into a museum that it is today. With a small group tour that takes you through this monument, you can fully experience the wonders of Hagia Sophia.
Hagia Sophia Museum, Blue Mosque Small-Group Walking Tour
Duration: 4 hours
11. Rumelihisarı
Rumeli Castle is a massive Ottoman fortress situated on the banks of the Bosphorus Strait at its narrowest point. This monument was built by the order of Mehmet the Conqueror (Mehmed II) in 1452. It was used as a point of movement control and was also used to prevent military and economic aid to the Byzantine Empire coming from the north, Black Sea. Sitting opposite the Anadolu Castle (Anadolu Hisarı), the fortress was also used as a customs checkpoint, a prison, and a settlement before it finally opened to the public in 1960 as a museum.
12. Belgrad Forest
Take a break from all the historical sites and impressive architectural splendor and spend some time at the serene Belgrad Forest. Quiet, beautiful, and green, this forest offers you a place to relax in the tranquillity of nature and appreciate the beauty of all the trees and plants around. It is one of the greenest places in Istanbul, and it is filled with chestnuts, beeches, and oak trees, as well as gorgeous flower beds. The area even has a stunning lake, making it the perfect picnic spot. If you want to relax your mind and calm your senses, this area is your best bet.
13. Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Popularly known as the Blue Mosque, this fantastic structure is Sultan Ahmet I’s impressive architectural gift to the city and humankind. Completed between 1609 and 1616, the mosque led to a bit of controversy as it had six minarets, the same as the Great Mosque of Mecca back then. A seventh minaret was eventually gifted to Mecca to end the dispute. The Blue Mosque is one of the premium achievements of Ottoman architecture and makes for a great sightseeing experience. You should visit this museum and see where it gets its unique color from and admire its other beautiful parts.
14. Grand Bazaar (from USD 118.0)
Going on a vacation to Istanbul involves as much sightseeing and great attractions as does shopping, and the best place to buy is the Grand Bazaar. Located between Nure Osmaniye Mosque and Beyazit Mosque, this large covered market is the world’s first indoor shopping mall and is surrounded by big, thick walls. The mall has vaulted ceilings, its stalls and wonderful shops line its maze of laneways, and it is separated into different sections to make your shopping experience easier. With an experienced guide by your side to help you navigate the halls of this bazaar, you will get into a shopping spree.
Shopping in Grand Bazaar
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
15. Topkapi Palace (from USD 65.06)
The seat from which the sultans of the Ottoman Empire ruled over their kingdoms till the 19th century, Topkapi Palace is a very significant landmark in the city. Sitting beside the Bosphorus, this castle was built by Mehmet the Conqueror in the 15th century and is a fantastic display of Islamic opulence. It contains lavish grand courtyards lined with handcrafted tiles, stunningly decorated rooms, walls adorned with ornaments and beautiful Islamic artworks, impressive collection of jewels, and relics that you shouldn’t miss seeing. And with a skip-the-line guided tour of the palace, you won’t miss any of its beautiful sights.
Istanbul: Topkapi Palace Guided Tour and Skip The Line
Duration: 1.5 hour
16. Gulhane Park
Gülhane (meaning “House of Roses” in Turkish) Park is the oldest urban park in the city. One of the largest parks in İstanbul, this historic site lays adjacent to Topkapı Palace, and for years, it served as the private outer garden of the imperial palace. Opened to the public in 1912, this spot is home to several old walnut and oak trees, the earliest known monument of Istanbul “Column of the Goths,” and is one of the parks that host the Istanbul Tulip Festival. It is perfect for an afternoon of running or a quiet stroll.
17. Hippodrome
Istanbul is a place filled with ancient and historic landmarks and sites, and Hippodrome is one of the oldest. Started in 203 AD by Septimius Severus and completed in 330 AD by Constantine the Great, the ancient Hippodrome was the main focal point of Byzantine public life and the location of games and chariot races and of course, conflict fights. Not much is left of the original structure. However, you can still see the three ancient monuments – an Egyptian obelisk, Serpent Column, and a formerly gold-covered stone obelisk as well as a beautifully designed fountain.
18. Misir Carsisi (Egyptian Market)
If you are a foodie, then you must not miss visiting the spice market. In this marketplace, you can get every type of food item that you may desire, from nuts to herbs, dried fruits, lokum – a famous Turkish recipe, and of course, spices. Since it was built with the taxes received by selling Egyptian products, it was named Misir Çarsisi meaning “Egyptian Market.” The market gets crowded at some points during the day time, so it is best to visit early and shop for all your spices/condiments.
19. Carpet Museum
One component synonymous with Istanbul is carpets. Your trip to the capital city isn’t complete without visiting at least one carpet shop. But before you purchase one, you should check out the excellent Carpet Museum and learn more about this incredible heritage. This institution offers a series of fascinating displays on the different types of Turkish carpets, their history, and the art of making them. Walk through the three galleries on-site and find out everything about carpets and how to choose them for use at your home.
20. Rüstem Pasa Mosque
Although the Blue Mosque claims the position of the most famous mosque in the city, Rüstem Pasa Mosque is undoubtedly the most beautiful. With perfectly preserved colorful Iznik tile panels used in finishing both the exterior and interior of this mosque, it is a beauty to behold. With not as much crowd as the Blue Mosque, you can spend a good time admiring and getting awed by the handcrafted, intricately designed tiles in different colors. It is a captivating place to see and take Instagram-worthy pictures. If you are attracted to Islamic art and architecture, this attraction is unmissable.
21. Taksim Square
Known as the modern city center of Istanbul, Taksim Square is a must-see on your trip. The spot is not just any ordinary square as it is home to several state-of-the-art hotels, restaurants, cafés, bars, and so much more. Just off the square, you can even find bubbling night clubs and movie theaters, as well as many places to relax with friends and family. The area is also the meeting place to celebrate New Year’s Eve, parades, public concerts, and other shows.
22. Yedikule fortress
Even though it requires some effort to get there, a trip to Yedikule fortress is one you will never forget. This massive site was built in the 5th century by the Emperor Theodosius II as part of a section of Constantinople’s defensive walls. After the Ottomans captured the city, they used the fortress for several other activities, including defense, prison, and execution sites. You can climb the stairs to the top of the battlements and enjoy picturesque views across the Sea of Marmara. This is a must-do activity if you plan to visit Yedikule.
23. Fatih Mosque
How would you like to visit the very first grand imperial mosque to be built in Istanbul? Fatih Mosque was built by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror after he finally broke through Constantinople’s walls and ended the Byzantine era of the region. Sitting on top of a hill, this majestic and imposing building overlooks the entire district with its several high domes and towering minarets. It is a famous pilgrimage site as it’s home to the tomb of Mehmet the Conqueror.
24. Emirgan Park
Covering an area of 325,000 square meters (3.4 million square feet) in the Emirgan district, this beautiful and vast park offers a tranquil place to relax. The park is home to a variety of pine trees, cypress, fir, willow trees, a beautiful lake, paved tracks where you can go jogging and run, large playgrounds for children, and several perfect picnic spots. And when you get hungry, the recreational site has three excellent restaurants where you can enjoy sumptuous meals.
25. Yeralti Camii
Tucked away among the alleyways of the Karaköy Harbor is this beautiful Ottoman mosque. Unlike most of the other Islamic temples in the region, this one is situated sunken into the earth and referred to as the “Underground Mosque” (Yeralti Camii in Turkish). A short tunnel below the surface accesses this hidden mosque. It, however, has a vibrant history and is the final resting place of two ancient Islamic martyrs.
26. Pera Museum
If you love art and you are visiting Istanbul, then this museum was built just for you. Although the entire city is filled with artistic buildings, this art gallery is the most famous home of art in the whole location. It is where you will find the most impressive collection of paintings from the Ottoman era. More than just a house of paintings, the institution also boasts of having the most elegant selection of ceramic works, as well as other Ottoman forms of artwork. With regular exhibitions from world-class artists, it is a must-visit for art lovers.
27. Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Go back in time and learn the history of transport, communications, in this unique museum. Rahmi M. Koc Museum showcases an impressive collection of machines that have been used for transportation over the years. You will get to see a variety of planes, ferry boats, submarines, railroad cars, tram models, and a lot of other exciting exhibitions. The institution also displays gramophones, cameras, TV sets, phonographs, 19th-century carriages, fire engines, steam cars, etc. It is a marvelous place to experience.
28. Basilica Cistern (from USD 32.53)
Not usually on the list of your regular places to see in the city, Basilica Cistern is worth your time. This massive, palace-like underground hall is held up by 336 columns and 12 rows and was once the point where the imperial water supply for the Byzantine emperors was stored. Completed in the 6th century, this fascinating structure still stands strong and features decorative carvings. You can skip the entry queues and explore this ancient cistern on a 30-minute tour.
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
Duration: 30.0 minute
29. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (from USD 32.52)
Located within the palace of Ibrahim Pasa, who was the Grand Vizier for Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, this fascinating museum is an attraction anyone interested in Ottoman and Islamic art must-see. The museum features an impressive hand-woven carpet collection that covers a wide array of carpets curated by textile experts as the world’s best. The institution also boasts of an Islamic art gallery that features excellent displays of Islamic art, calligraphy, paintings, Islamic abstract art, and contemporary Islamic art. There is a guided tour that shows you everything, including the exquisite ceramics and wood carving exhibits. This is a perfect activity for your trip to Istanbul.
Turkish & Islamic Art Museum: Entry Ticket & Guided Tour
Duration: 30.0 minute
30. Chora Church (Kariye Museum) (from USD 55.48)
This beautiful church is named Chora, which means “country” in Greek because it sits just outside old Constantinople’s city walls. Originally called the Church of St. Saviour of Chora, it was built around the 5th century, but has been reconstructed and rebuilt over the years to the impressive structure it is today. The place of worship (now a museum) is famous for its beautiful and colorful 14th-century mosaics, and its fresco-laden walls and domes. Discover all about the medieval world at this church on an enjoyable two-hour walking tour.
Istanbul: 2-Hour Chora Church Guided Walking Tour
Duration: 2 hour
31. Vialand theme park (from USD 88.0)
Listed as one of the top 10 theme parks in the World, Isfanbul (formerly known as Vialand) theme park is a fantastic place to visit. This site offers so many attractions that everyone will remain thoroughly entertained. Located in the Eyup district, the spot is more than just a theme park as it boasts other entertainment, shopping, and exhibition centers that will keep you fully engaged during your visit. It is enormous, perfect for fun, and you can take a day trip from Istanbul to the grounds. Bring your family along to this site as it offers fun galore.
Istanbul to Vialand Theme Park Day Trip with Admission Ticket
Duration: 420 to 450 minutes
32. Istanbul Aquarium (from USD 19.0)
Istanbul Aquarium is a beautiful and entertaining center in the heart of the city. A remarkable place to spend quality time with friends or family, this site is filled with fun activities and things to see. It is spread over a 6000-square meter (64583 square foot) area, and is home to a themed travel route, 64 tanks filled with a wide variety of marine life, a fantastic gift shop, and so much more. If you are traveling with children, ensure you bring them to this attraction for a fulfilling trip.
Admission Ticket to Istanbul Aquarium
Duration: 1 day
33. Miniaturk (from USD 105.0)
Miniaturk is a museum park that displays small-scale models of the country’s historic buildings and monuments. It opened in 2003, and is one of the largest miniature parks in the world as it spans over a total area of 60,000 square meters (650,000 square feet). The mini display features everything in a replica of its real-life forms. See the most famous historic sites in the country as well as the waterways, pools, and covered sections that go with them. Other than a chance to see all the country’s best structures at once, you can take a full-day guided tour and enjoy listening to the details of its wonders.
Full-Day Tour of Istanbul Miniaturk
Explore the rich history of Istanbul
Having once been the seat of world power, Istanbul is filled with numerous fascinating places to explore. From the most captivating temple structures to grand palaces displaying the vast riches of the empires that have ruled over the city, there are more than enough things to keep you engaged and entertained during your visit. Prepare your itinerary and get ready to have the most unforgettable experience as you spend time at some of these unique and exotic places in Istanbul, Turkey.
In light of the February 2023 earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria, Trip101 urges you to be apprised of the latest news if you have any plans to travel to Eastern Turkey. Other parts of the country remain open to travelers.
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