Planning a city trip to Istanbul soon? We’ve compiled the top 20 Istanbul attractions just for you!
From the impressive Hagia Sophia to the stunning Topkapı Palace and the bustling Grand Bazaar, Istanbul offers a range of attractions that will capture your attention and spark your interest. Book your holiday to Istanbul for an unforgettable experience!
A fantastic activity to start with when you’re in the Turkish metropolis is an Istanbul Highlights Bike Tour.
An experienced Dutch-speaking guide, residing in Istanbul, will lead you along the occasionally hilly paths past the highlights and also tell you about city secrets, special places, and restaurants that you probably won’t find on your own (though I certainly challenge you to try!).
Want a clear overview for your city trip with all the attractions and the most delightful neighborhoods of Istanbul? Be sure to save the list below!
Top 20 Istanbul attractions
1. Hagia Sophia
When you think of Istanbul, you think of the Hagia Sophia. It is the most famous attraction and perhaps the symbol of all of Turkey, located in the European part of Istanbul.
The Hagia Sophia is one of the oldest church buildings in the world, dating back to the year 537.
Over the centuries, the Hagia Sophia has been restored several times. Until the 16th century, it was the largest cathedral in the world. Many people think the Hagia Sophia has always been a mosque, but that’s not the case.
The building has a very rich history and was originally established as a cathedral. It remained a cathedral until 1453. In 1453, Constantinople was conquered by the Ottomans, who transformed the Hagia Sophia cathedral into the Hagia Sophia mosque. It then underwent a metamorphosis both inside and out.
Before you admire the Hagia Sophia with your own eyes, you can get a taste of the atmosphere in this video below:
Inside the mosque, various Christian artworks and symbols were replaced with Islamic artworks and symbols. On the outside, work was also done. Several minarets were added, giving the mosque the appearance we know today.
The Hagia Sophia served as a mosque until 1923. Visits were not possible, and the mosque was only accessible to Islamic followers who came to pray.
On October 29, 1923, when the Republic of Turkey was founded, this changed partly again. A new building was opened where a museum was built that was freely accessible.
Regardless of your faith, everyone was welcome. Old Christian and Islamic artworks were restored, and it became a home for both religions. This lasted until 2020. In 2020, the Hagia Sophia was again declared solely a mosque. You can still visit the Hagia Sophia, but different rules now apply.
The former museum no longer exists, and the mosque can only be visited outside prayer hours. The Hagia Sophia is also on the UNESCO World Heritage List, thanks to its rich history and breathtaking architecture.
2. Topkapi Palace
The Topkapi Palace is considered Istanbul’s most important museum. Love architecture? Then you can’t miss this museum during your city trip.
When you walk through the Topkapi Palace, you’ll feel like the Sultan of your own realm. Ottoman architecture is nowhere else in the world as well admired as in the Topkapi Palace.
The Palace teaches you a lot about the history of Turkey. This palace is now a museum that everyone can visit, but for over 400 years, various sultans lived here. It’s so large that you can easily spend half a day there.
The adventure begins when you enter the grounds through the Imperial Gate. You walk through the landscaped garden to the second gate, the Gate of Salutation. Passing through the gate, you reach the second courtyard, where many ceremonies were organized by the sultans.
Once inside the Palace, you’ll be amazed. There are more than 10 halls you can visit. You can also admire the official treasury of the Sultans and see bathhouses, harems, and the armory.
The entrance fee is 25 TL. This allows you to visit everything except the harems. If you want to see those as well, you’ll pay an additional 15 TL.
3. Toy Museum Istanbul
Traveling with children? Then this museum is definitely worth a visit. You can admire no less than 4,000 authentic and unique toys here. You’ll get a glimpse into the history of Turkish toys and discover many fun items. This museum is enjoyable for both young and old.
4. Blue Mosque
After visiting the Hagia Sophia, you’ll also come across the Blue Mosque. Commonly referred to as the Sultanahmet Mosque, the Blue Mosque is named after its location in the Sultanahmet district. Worldwide, it is known as the ‘Blue Mosque’ because of its blue elements.
As you wander through these mosques, pay close attention to the famous mosaics. They are decorated with over 20,000 hand-painted tiles in green, reddish-brown, and – you guessed it – blue!
This mosque opened its doors in the 17th century. The dome of the Sultanahmet Mosque is much smaller than that of the Hagia Sophia, but this doesn’t make the masterpiece any less impressive. The dome is surrounded by 6 minarets, which is quite exceptional. Normally, a mosque is surrounded by only 1 minaret.
It’s a popular attraction in Istanbul, but definitely worth a visit.
Tip: Cover your head and legs with (free) loan scarves and long skirts, put your shoes in a bag, and you’re ready to go. Note the opening hours, as tourists are not allowed inside during prayer times.
5. The Kapalı Çarşı – Grand Bazaar Istanbul
The name Kapalı Çarşı already hints at what it is if you understand Turkish. Kapalı means closed and çarşı means market. So, it’s the ‘closed market,’ which we would translate to a covered shopping center.
The Grand Bazaar is a true experience and a favorite attraction for many in Istanbul. It’s a covered shopping paradise filled with local shops. There are various sections with merchants all trying to sell their goods. From a spice section to a food section, and lots of clothing, accessories, ceramics, gold, silver, and leather goods.
It’s estimated that there are currently between 3,500 and 4,000 stalls where you can shop. If you love shopping, you’ll definitely spend a whole day here during your city trip. Even if you’re not a shopping enthusiast, it’s still fun to visit. Stroll through, soak in the atmosphere, and grab a delicious fresh dürüm wrap before leaving the bazaar.
6. The Galata Tower
The Galata Tower is the oldest tower in the European part of Istanbul. Among the Turkish population, it’s known as the Galata Kulesi. You can climb the 61-meter-high tower for a stunning view over the city and the Istanbul skyline. This tower is incredibly beautiful to visit in the evening when it’s dark, offering a fantastic view over the entire city!
7. Dolmabahçe Palace
The Dolmabahçe Palace is a residence where the sultans lived. The palace was built in 1856 on the shores of the Bosporus. It was commissioned by Sultan Abdul Mejid, who desired more luxury than what the Topkapi Palace offered. Afterward, the Dolmabahçe Palace became the official residence of the sultan and the court. It also became the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. The founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, also lived here. The palace was transformed into a museum in the last century and is open for tourists to visit today. You can see Atatürk’s room and the Glass Pavilion, among other things.
8. Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is a massive underground water reservoir in Istanbul. It’s one of the largest in all of Turkey, boasting no less than 336 columns.
You can also see many statues here. One of the most impressive works you can admire is the Medusa statue. It’s so beautiful here, almost fairy-tale-like.
Basilica Cistern opening hours: Every day from 9 AM to 7 PM, except on Thursdays when it’s open from 9 AM to 6 PM.
9. Mısır Çarşısı – Egyptian Bazaar
Another bazaar you shouldn’t miss is the Mısır Çarşısı, or as we refer to it, the Egyptian Bazaar. This colorful bazaar makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.
The Egyptian Bazaar is located in the Eminönü district and is also known as the Spice Bazaar. You can buy the tastiest souvenirs for home here, from dried herbs to dried fruits, Turkish nuts, and other spices. The bazaar is close to the Galata Bridge, our next top attraction.
10. Galata Bridge
The Galata Bridge spans the Golden Horn. This bridge connects east and west, linking the European part of Istanbul with the Asian part. It connects the districts of Eminönü and Galata.
The bridge is 466 meters long and 80 meters wide. The Galata Bridge has two levels, six lanes, and a sidewalk. You can walk or cycle on this sidewalk. The bridge also has a tram connection.
Tip: At the base of the bridge, you’ll see local fishermen catching their daily haul. They grill the fish on the spot and sell it in warm sandwiches. Grab a fish sandwich before crossing the bridge. It doesn’t get fresher than this.
11. The Hippodrome of Constantinople
Istanbul has many squares worth visiting. A very popular square is the touristy Taksim Square.
Another square where you can find many locals is the Sultanahmet Meydanı square. This square connects the path from the Blue Mosque to the Hagia Sophia. Centuries ago, in the 3rd century AD, this square was used for sports and games. Chariot races and horse races were organized here.
Today, there’s nothing left of this stadium, and as you walk through, you wouldn’t even realize it was an old stadium. From above, you can still see that this square has retained the original shape of the stadium.
12. The Balat Neighborhood in Istanbul
Istanbul primarily has a Muslim local population, but there are also many Christian and Jewish residents. The Jewish residents even have their own Jewish quarter within the dynamic metropolis of Istanbul.
The neighborhood is located on the southern shores of the Golden Horn and is home to Jewish heritage in Istanbul. You can visit various synagogues and museums here. This neighborhood has also gained a large cult following due to the promotion of the colorful houses on social media.
If you love taking fun snapshots for your Instagram and Facebook, don’t miss the beautiful colorful houses in this neighborhood. It’s the city’s hidden hotspot.
13. City Walls of Istanbul
The city walls of Istanbul completely enclosed the city until the 15th century. Back then, Istanbul was still called Constantinople. Today, you can still walk along almost the entire city wall. This route is about 6.5 kilometers long.
If you enjoy cycling, it’s a great idea to rent a bike and cycle along the city wall.
14. The Bosporus Bridge
The Bosporus Bridge is one of the three bridges that connect the Asian side with the European part of Istanbul.
The bridge is 1,590 meters long and 39 meters wide, offering stunning views from the bridge. The silhouettes of the many mosques, minarets, and other buildings create a beautiful scene, especially at sunset.
15. Ortaköy Mosque
The Ortaköy Mosque is one of the most popular mosques among the local population. It’s also becoming an increasingly popular tourist attraction. Despite not being as large as the Hagia Sophia, the Ortaköy Mosque remains a fantastic sight to behold.
The mosque is located by the water, the Bosporus, and right at the mouth of the bridge on the European side. From a distance, you get a fantastic view of the mosque with the Bosporus Bridge in the background. This is also a very pleasant neighborhood to cycle through. The mosque was built between 1854 and 1856, replacing an older mosque. The structure has very high windows, and inside you can find many decorations in pastel colors. There are also beautiful chandeliers. The chandeliers alone make this mosque worth a visit.
16. Istanbul Sapphire
Istanbul isn’t typically known for its skyscrapers, but there is one in the city that stands out. The Istanbul Sapphire skyscraper reaches a height of 261 meters. You can find these skyscrapers in Istanbul’s financial district. The skyscraper also features an observation deck for visitors. Take the elevator to the 54th floor and enjoy the view over the city. The observation deck is open daily, and an entry ticket costs just 18TL, which is roughly one euro at the current exchange rate.
17. Büyük Valide Inn
Close to the Grand Bazaar, you’ll find the Büyük Valide Inn with a large rooftop. This rooftop offers a magical view over the city and is the perfect spot for your Istanbul photos.
18. Otagtepe
Istanbul is a bustling city but also one with many city parks. Otagtepe is one of these parks. You can find the park near the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge in the Beykoz district. This park is located on the Asian side of Istanbul. Strolling through the park and enjoying the view of the bridge offers the perfect combination of nature and architecture.
19. Chora Church Istanbul
The Chora Church in Istanbul was built in the 14th century. Here, you can admire beautiful mosaics and stunning frescoes. You can also attend a church service here on Sundays.
20. Tiled Pavilion Istanbul
The Tiled Pavilion is a well-hidden gem of the city. The local name for this long decorated wall is Çinili Köskü. Despite standing for 8 centuries, it has never really become a major tourist attraction, which is unfortunate. The images depicted with colorful tiles are truly beautiful to see, and it’s completely free. You’ll get a history lesson as you walk along these mosaics and learn a lot about the Ottoman Empire and the Byzantine Empire. Definitely worth adding to your list.
Istanbul attractions on the map
Tip: Explore these and more attractions by bike!
You’re probably thinking: here she goes again about cycling. I get it, but even in a metropolis like Istanbul, the bicycle is i-de-al. Forget about renting a car, because from our experience, driving here is no fun. On the other hand, it’s a great idea to cross this (somewhat chaotic) sprawling city by bike. Walking can take up your entire morning, while on a bike, you can discover the whole city in just a few hours!
No worries about the hills: with tours in Istanbul from Baja Bikes, you can also choose an electric bike! For more information on prices and availability, check out www.bajabikes.eu.
- And, psst, another tip: save money, time, and skip the line at top attractions in Istanbul by booking your tickets for Istanbul online in advance. This will save you at least 2 to 3 hours of waiting time!
- Also, check out the videos on Vimeo, where you can see how Dutch-speaking guides enthusiastically showcase world cities
- Take a look at the reviews from tour customers of Baja Bikes.
Is cycling in Istanbul safe?
Istanbul is a safe city but also a busy one. Even though there are many tourist attractions in the city center, it’s advisable to cycle with guidance. It’s best to book a guided bike tour and explore the city and city center with a Dutch-speaking guide.
Tip: Venture more into the suburbs and less crowded areas. Cycling along the Bosphorus or over the Bosphorus Bridge are absolute must-dos.
Cycling in Istanbul is definitely doable, but you should know the right neighborhoods where it’s best to do so.
Looking for more tips for your city trip to Istanbul? Check out what else you can do in Istanbul here?