Istanbul, a city where history meets modernity and East meets West. In this article, we explore the 20 must-see places that make the heart of this metropolis beat faster. Whether you want to visit its iconic monuments, discover its cultural heritage or savor its local cuisine, Istanbul promises memorable adventures. With our practical tips, get ready to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere, discover its nooks and crannies and experience authentic moments. So put on your best walking shoes and let Istanbul enchant you with its thousand and one wonders.
1- Cruise on the Bosphorus
A cruise on the Bosphorus is an opportunity to see the city from a different angle, to feel the fresh breeze on your face while enjoying breathtaking panoramas. Whether you prefer a daytime cruise to enjoy the city in full sun or the twinkling lights of a night cruise, this promises to be an unforgettable experience. And the best part? There are options to suit all tastes and budgets, allowing everyone to discover the charms of Istanbul from its legendary waters. Book your dinner cruise with show on the Bosphorus !
2- Visit the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Cami)
In the heart of Istanbul stands the Blue Mosque, or Sultanahmet Cami, a work of art that dazzles visitors with its splendor. This mosque is famous for its six minarets and the myriad blue tiles adorning its interior. Its construction, completed in the early 17th century, elegantly blends Ottoman and Byzantine architectural styles. Open to all, this functional mosque welcomes visitors wishing to discover one of the most magnificent expressions of Islamic faith and art. Visits are free of charge, but remember to cover up respectfully and choose the right time, outside prayer hours, to enjoy this peaceful and enriching experience. Opt for a guided tour of the Blue Mosque and be among the first to admire it after its renovation!
3- Topkapi Palace
Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Ottoman Empire with a visit to Topkapi Palace, one of Istanbul's most emblematic landmarks. Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, this majestic palace was the heart of the empire for almost four centuries. As you stroll through its richly decorated courtyards and halls, you'll discover priceless treasures testifying to the past grandeur of the sultans. Don't miss the harem for a glimpse into royal private life. With so much to see, allow plenty of time to absorb the cultural and historical wealth that Topkapi Palace has to offer. Topkapi Palace is also one of the most beautiful palaces and castles in the world! Kill two birds with one stone by booking your tickets for Topkapi Palace and the Harem Museum !
4- Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art
Discover Istanbul's hidden treasure: the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts. This museum, located in the former palace of Ibrahim Pasha overlooking the Constantinople Hippodrome, is an Ali Baba's cave for anyone interested in history and art. You'll be greeted by a breathtaking collection of over 40,000 objects, giving you a unique insight into Turkish daily life through the ages. A visit to the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art is not just a stroll through relics of the past, it's a journey through time that awakens admiration and enriches the mind. Book your tickets tickets for the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art !
5- Explore Istanbul's Asian side
Far from the tourist hustle and bustle of the European side, the Asian side of Istanbul reveals a different face of the city, . This region offers a more authentic and tranquil experience, where markets, alleyways and Ottoman architecture create a special atmosphere. Kadıköy and Moda are emblematic neighborhoods where local charm is experienced daily. The Asian side invites you to slow down and savor Istanbul at a different pace, letting yourself be surprised by its cultural richness and the warm hospitality of its people. Enjoy a cruise on the Bosphorus with a stopover on the Asian side to discover it!
6- Emirgan Park
Located on the banks of the Bosphorus, Parc Emirgan is the ideal place to stroll, picnic or simply sit back and enjoy the breathtaking view over the Bosphorus. In spring, the park comes alive during the International Tulip Festival, transforming its gardens into artistic scenes straight out of a painting. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a green space for a family outing, Emirgan is a welcome break from the hectic pace of city life.
7- Kariye Museum (Chora Church)
The Kariye Museum, formerly known as the Chora Church, is one of Istanbul's rare gems, captivating you with its beauty and deep history. Located a little off the beaten track, this monument stands out for its Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. These works of art, considered among the most important and best preserved in the Christian world, illuminate the interior with their vibrant colors and detail. It's a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a bygone era and marvel at the skill and devotion of the artists of yesteryear.
8- Istanbul Archaeological Museum
Located near the Topkapi Palace, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum houses priceless treasures that take you back to the heart of the Ottoman era, to the deepest roots of humanity. Its collections, including the famous Sarcophagus of Alexander the Great, continue to capture the imagination of visitors. The Istanbul Archaeological Museum is not only a must-see for history buffs, but also for anyone wishing to understand the diverse and rich roots of Turkish and Mediterranean culture.
9- Dolmabahçe Palace
Built in the 19th century, it symbolizes the grandeur and opulence of the Ottoman Empire at its height. This sumptuous palace, with its 285 rooms, 46 salons and famous crystal staircase, is an architectural masterpiece blending Ottoman and European elements. Its ceremonial hall, dominated by the world's largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, is a breathtaking sight. Dolmabahçe Palace was not just a royal residence, it was the political heart of the empire, where sultans, dignitaries and foreign guests were received. A visit here is a plunge into the pomp of the empire's last days, making it an essential exploration of your stay. Opt for an all-inclusive ticket and don't waste any time during your visit to the Palace!
10- The Basilica Cistern
Built in the 6th century, this ancient underground water reservoir is a model of Byzantine engineering, designed to supply the palace with water. Perhaps its most intriguing feature is the two Medusa heads used as column bases, whose origin and significance remain a mystery to this day. The Basilica Cistern is not just a historic monument, it's a captivating experience that will take your mind off the hustle and bustle of the city. A visit here is a moment of calm and wonder, a true journey back in time. Take advantage of a audio-guide ticket for the Basilica Cistern and don't miss a thing!
11- Enjoy an Ottoman Hammam
Experiencing an Ottoman hammam is a must for anyone visiting Istanbul. In the warm, humid atmosphere of the hammam, time seems to stand still, giving way to deep relaxation. The session begins with a steam bath to open the pores, followed by an exfoliating scrub using a "kese", a rough glove, to thoroughly cleanse the skin. After the scrub, a soap foam massage provides an incomparable sensation of lightness and purity. It's a revitalizing experience that connects body and mind to Turkey's rich cultural history.
12- Discover Turkish carpet workshops
These spaces, often found in historic districts, reveal the skills of artisans who transform wool and silk into splendid handmade rugs. Each carpet tells its own story through its patterns and colors, reflecting local traditions and legends. Visiting these workshops will not only give you the opportunity to admire magnificent carpets, but also to understand the process by which they are created. For those looking for a unique souvenir, handmade carpets guarantee exceptional quality and a faithful representation of Turkish culture.
13- Shopping in the popular Laleli district
Known for its many stores, Laleli attracts not only local but also international shoppers, who come to fill their suitcases with textiles, clothes, shoes and accessories at attractive prices. This district offers a typical shopping experience where haggling is the order of the day, allowing tourists to practice their negotiating skills while immersing themselves in the local culture. Laleli is also an excellent place to discover the daily life of Istanbul's inhabitants, between the fast-paced exchanges and the dynamic atmosphere of the market.
14- The city's beaches
Originally known for its cultural heritage and landscapes, Istanbul also hides unsuspected beaches that prove to be points of interest during the hot summer months. Although the city is not immediately associated with beach life, the shores of the Sea of Marmara and the Bosphorus offer magnificent stretches of sand where locals and tourists alike can enjoy the sun and sea. From the beaches of Kilyos on the Black Sea coast to the sandy corners of Princes' Islands,each beach has its own unique atmosphere. These beaches are usually only a short drive or ferry ride away, and promise a pleasant outing away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
15- Discover Turkish pastries
To discover Turkish pastries is to plunge into a world of varied flavors and textures that are firmly rooted in Turkish culture. The famous baklavas, puff pastries with honey and walnuts, are just the beginning of a long list of sweet delights to explore. Turkish pastries, often flavored with rosewater or topped with pistachios, almonds and cream, are impressively varied. Lokums, soft little cubes known as "Turkish delights", and kadaïfs, sweet, crispy dough noodles, will seduce those in search of authentic sweets. This gourmet experience is a must to understand Turkish hospitality and generosity.
16- Nusret
Nusret, also known as "Salt Bae", is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary experience that has captured the imagination of gourmets the world over. With establishments in some of the world's most prestigious locations, Nusret invites you to immerse yourself in the art of meat. Nusret's signature gesture of sprinkling salt has gone viral, symbolizing the attention to detail and spectacle that accompanies every meal. Beyond the spectacle, it's the exceptional quality of the meat, carefully selected and prepared, that makes Nusret's reputation. Customers come for the atmosphere, the impeccable service, but above all to enjoy steaks and Turkish specialties cooked to perfection.
17- Shopping in the bazaars
Bazaars, such as the famous Grand Bazaar, are covered labyrinths, housing thousands of stores where you can find almost anything: fragrant spices, woven carpets, jewelry, ceramics and much more. It's the ideal place to shop for souvenirs or soak up the local atmosphere. Haggling is an integral part of the experience, forcing you to interact with the vendors and try your hand at the art of negotiation. Bazaars are not just markets, they are the heart of Istanbul's culture, where tradition and commerce meet. The Grand Bazaar is also known as one of the most colorful markets in the world!
18- Visit Istiklal Street
This lively artery, stretching for around 1.4 kilometers, vibrates day and night to the rhythm of the footsteps of locals and tourists alike. Boutiques, historic cafés, restaurants, art galleries and buildings from all eras line this street, offering a palette of experiences to captivate all the senses. Here, you can sample local specialties, discover Turkish handicrafts or listen to street musicians. Istiklal Street is also a place of encounters, discoveries and exchanges, a microcosm of Stamboulian life in all its diversity and energy. To visit it is to immerse yourself in the soul of the city.
19- Visit Sainte-Sophie
Sainte-Sophie, or Hagia Sophia, is one of Istanbul's most emblematic monuments, captivating visitors with its thousand-year-old history and grandiose architecture. It has been a Christian basilica, a mosque, then a museum, before becoming a mosque again in 2020. Its dome, which seems to float in the air, and its mosaics bear witness to Byzantine artistic genius and the wealth of the Ottoman Empire. Hagia Sophia is a living symbol of harmony between different cultures and religions, a place where art and faith meet in mutual respect(Book your guided tour ticket for Hagia Sophia here!). " Healing at the Basilica of Saint Sophia" is one of the world's best-known good-luck traditions!
You'll also find Istanbul in our top destinations for sunbathing without flying, or in our top European destinations for a weekend with friends!
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
The best time to visit Istanbul, Turkey, is generally in spring and autumn, i.e. between April and May, and from September to mid-November. These periods offer a pleasant climate, with moderate temperatures and less precipitation, ideal for exploring the city and its many historic sites in the open air.
Where to go for a walk in Istanbul?
- Sultanahmet: This is the historic heart of Istanbul, home to iconic sites such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. A stroll through this district plunges you into the city's Byzantine and Ottoman history.
- The Bosphorus: A stroll along the Bosphorus Strait offers spectacular views of the city and the water. You can also take a ferry for a cruise, allowing you to see both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Istiklal
- Caddesi and Taksim: This lively pedestrian street is lined with stores, cafés and restaurants. From Taksim Square down to the Galata district, you'll discover Istanbul's modern ambience.
How much does a kebab cost in Turkey?
At street stalls or small local establishments, a kebab (such as the Döner kebab) can cost between 10 and 30 TRY (around 0.50 to 1.50 USD), depending on the city and district. These places often offer the best value for money, allowing you to sample authentic kebabs without breaking the bank.
Where to sleep in Istanbul?
- For a budget stay:
Located in Taksim, the"Meroddi Barnathan Hotel" offers excellent value with comfortable rooms, a garden, terrace, restaurant and bar. Guests particularly appreciated the view, the breakfast on the terrace, and the friendly, helpful staff. Prices start at around €72 per night, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting a fabulous experience. Click here to find out more!
- For a comfortable stay:
The"Sentire Hotels & Residences" stands out for its privileged location and quality services. It is recommended for those seeking a perfect balance between comfort and price, offering an ideal intermediate option for visitors to Istanbul. Click here to find out more!
- For an original stay:
Located in the Karaköy and Galata district,"The Wings Hotel Istanbul" wonderfully combines old and new. It offers a unique experience with boutiques and cafés in a young, affluent style. The views from the hotel are among the finest in the city, ensuring a memorable experience for travelers looking for an original stay. Hotels in this area offer particularly good value for money, given the convenience of the location. Click here to find out more!
Tempted by a stay in Istanbul? Take advantage of a discount by booking your travel insurance here, and leave with peace of mind!
