10 TOP Things to Do in Istanbul (2026 Activity Guide)

The Blue Mosque with crescent moon (new moon) -Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey.

The Sultanahmet Mosque (also known as the Blue Mosque because of the blue tiles that are used to decorate the interior) is one of the grandest and most famous mosques in Istanbul.

The mosque was criticized early on for having 6 minarets – the same number of the Great Mosque in Mecca. Sultan Ahmet overcame this problem by ordering a 7th minaret to be built at the Great Mosque.

One local anecdote claims that the original design called for several gold minarets. The architect realized that there wasn't enough gold in the empire to construct gold minarets, so he built six minarets instead. When questioned about his decision, the architect claimed that he mistakenly heard the instruction to be six ("altı" in Turkish) minarets rather than gold ("altın" in Turkish) minarets.

#StunningStructures #Trovember

These fabulous gates are in the grounds of the palace and that's the Bosporus you see beyond! #river #palaces

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Most popular experiences in Istanbul

Tours & day trips

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Bosphorus Explorer: 3-Hour Cruise with Asian Side Visit

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2 Day All Inclusive Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Optional Balloon Fli...

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Private & custom tours

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Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour

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Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St...

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Full-day Tour to Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, Isabey Mosque, Temple of Ar...

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show

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Classes & workshops

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Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Massage, and Pool in Taksim

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Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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Daily Trip to Pamukkale National Park, Hierapolis Ancient City Including Lu...

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What to do in Istanbul

Popular places to visit

Taksim Square

You can learn about the local history of Istanbul when you make a stop at a well-known site like Taksim Square. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.

Blue Mosque

Named for its dazzling interior covered in blue tiles, this is a hub of Istanbul's religious life.

Hagia Sophia

A world famous monument to the ever-changing history of Istanbul, and one of the largest churches in the world.

Galata Tower

Standing for over 650 years, this imposing cylindrical lookout point continues to offer special views over the city of Istanbul.

Grand Bazaar

Visit one of the biggest and oldest covered markets in the world, a real taste (and smell and sound!) of the diversity that Turkey has to offer.

Topkapi Palace

Stately home to the Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years with an array of Turkish design and foreign art.

Bosphorus

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Bosphorus during your travels in Istanbul. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.

Bosphorus Bridge

Travel from Europe to Asia on the first bridge to connect the two continents, admire the bridge from below during a cruise and visit centuries-old buildings.

Istanbul, Turkey - February 23, 2018: Aerial Drone View of IstMarina Skyscrapers Avm Shopping Mall in Istanbul Kartal

Mall of Istanbul

During your trip to Istanbul, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Mall of Istanbul. Attend a sporting event or visit the stunning cathedral in this family-friendly area.

Areas of Istanbul

Blue Mosque featuring a mosque, a pond and a fountain

Sultanahmet

Enjoy the popular shops in Sultanahmet. Blue Mosque is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Sultanahmet Station or Cemberlitas Station to see more of Istanbul.

Taksim

3/5(2 area reviews)

Taksim Square and Japon Kultur Merkezi are top sights in Taksim, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Taksim Station or Findikli Station to see more sights in the area.

Haydarpasa station building in Istanbul ; Shutterstock ID 276386249

Kadıköy

Spend some time visiting places like Kalamış Marina while getting to know Kadıköy, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Bahariye Station or Acibadem Station to see more of the area.

Cumhuriyet Anıtı featuring street scenes, a city and a square or plaza

Istanbul City Center

Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Istanbul City Center. Check out top attractions like Taksim Square and Grand Bazaar, and jump on the metro at Aksaray Station or Aksaray Tram Station to see more of the city.

Beşiktaş

Travelers choose Beşiktaş for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Nispetiye Station or Etiler Station and check out top sights like Zorlu Performing Arts Center.

Karaköy

Consider a visit to Galata Tower and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Karaköy. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Karakoy Station or Karakoy Tünel Station.