From the iconic church-turned-mosque Hagia Sophia to the iconic Topkapi Palace and the bustling streets of Grand Bazaar, explore the must-see attractions and authentic experiences of Istanbul that make the city truly memorable. A perfect starting point for planning your journey! 

There are cities you travel to and then there is Istanbul, one of the major cities in Turkey, that lives in your memory long after you have landed back in your city. With so many endless places to see in Istanbul, the city offers experiences that feel like a beautiful story unfolding, layer by layer and moment by moment. From ancient palaces that whisper tales of royalty to the sparkling Bosphorus waterfront that connects two continents, Istanbul is one such city in Turkey that carries a sense of wonder in every corner. 

As you explore the things to do in Istanbul, you will likely find yourself tasting warm and flaky Turkish delights that melt softly with every bite and sipping on hot Turkish tea served in elegant tulip-shaped glasses. The aroma, the flavours, and the simple pleasure of pausing to enjoy them make the city feel personal and inviting. Istanbul is a city filled with stories carved into its buildings and monuments that reflect its cultural and artistic heritage. The more you immerse yourself in exploring the city, the more you feel connected to its rhythm, beauty and welcoming spirit. Let us dive into the places to visit in Istanbul one by one. 

Places to See in Istanbul  

• Hagia Sophia 

• Blue Mosque 

• Topkapi Palace 

• Bosphorus Waterfront 

• Grand Bazaar 

• Spice Bazaar 

• Galata Tower 

• Dolmabahçe Palace 

• Istiklal Street and Taksim Square 

• Prince Islands 

Hagia Sophia

The stunning church-turned-mosque, Hagia Sophia, is a must-visit when in Istanbul, as it is where the city’s history breathes in quiet layers. Hagia Sophia was originally constructed as a cathedral and later a mosque due to political reasons; today, the iconic attraction stands as a living symbol of cultural harmony. Inside the mosque, the vast dome rises above like a soft horizon, catching sunlight that dances across golden mosaics. The marble floors inside Hagia Sophia are a reminder of the many stories that have lived here. Hagia Sophia is one of the famous places in Istanbul that simply invites you to slow down and feel its presence. To experience it fully, visit the mosque early in the morning when the crowd is thin and the hall feels calmer and more reflective.  

Good to Know

Entry to the mosque is free since it is now an active place of worship. Visitors planning to visit Hagia Sophia must dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees. Women need a scarf to cover their heads. Photography is not restricted inside the mosque, but visitors must be mindful during prayer times.  

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque, also known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is another must-visit place to see in Istanbul that is admired for its artistic design and serene ambience. The name of the mosque comes from the subtle blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior walls. If you are planning to visit Istanbul and add the Blue Mosque to your itinerary, plan to visit early morning or late afternoon when there is less crowd.  

Good to Know 

Entry to the Blue Mosque is free, and one must ensure proper dress code before entering, including robes and scarves, which are often available at the mosque entrance. Access to the mosque for visitors during prayer times may be limited. Hence, the best time to visit Istanbul’s Blue Mosque is during the morning hours. 

Topkapi Palace

Visiting the Topkapi Palace is one of the things to do in Istanbul, Turkey, that gives you a glimpse into a world of royal grandeur, where sultans once made decisions that shaped empires. The palace is spread across beautifully landscaped courtyards and marble pathways, which feel like a sheer example of artistic beauty. As you walk through the richly decorated chambers and decorative pavilions, you begin to imagine moments of royal gatherings, festive celebrations and quiet reflections that once echoed through these very halls of the palace. 

Good to Know 

Entry to the Topkapi Palace requires entry tickets. Additionally, the Harem section of the palace requires a separate ticket and is worth visiting for its beautiful interior. Plus, the palace remains closed on Tuesdays.  

Bosphorus Waterfront

The Bosphorus is where Istanbul truly reveals its beauty, which is a meeting point of continents, cultures and stories. Walking across the waterfront, you will notice local fishermen on their duties, families gathering for Turkish tea and ferries moving steadily between Europe and Asia. To explore this thing to do in Istanbul, you can book a cruise on the Bosphorus, which offers shifting views of palaces, mansions, bridges and neighbourhood skylines that change beautifully with the light. 

Good to Know 

Public ferries on the Bosphorus offer economical rides between piers. You may prefer one between private or guided cruises, which must be booked in advance. Wear a light layer, as the breeze can feel cool on the water. 

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the most vibrant activities to do in Istanbul, where the joy of discovery meets living history. The maze-like lanes of the Grand Bazaar are filled with shops selling handwoven carpets, antiques, lanterns, jewellery, spices and ceramics, which means you can shop your heart out and take back a souvenir as a memory for you and your near and dear ones. At first, the shopping street of the Grand Bazaar may feel overwhelming, but the charm lies in slowing down and enjoying unplanned conversations with shopkeepers who often share stories about the crafts they sell. 

Good to Know 

The Grand Bazaar remains closed on Sundays. Bargaining is common and is part of the cultural experience. Do not merge any other itinerary with the Grand Bazaar, as exploring the street may easily take longer than expected. 

Spice Bazaar

The spice bazaar in Istanbul is a sensory delight for anyone visiting. The colourful display of saffron, dried nuts, teas and flavoured Turkish delights fills the air with aromas. Each stall in the spice bazaar feels inviting, and vendors are warm in their approach, often offering small samples to help you decide. The atmosphere in the bazaar is lively yet not rushed, so you can easily wander around the market and learn about different blends and ingredients used in Turkish cooking. If you enjoy culinary souvenirs, the spice bazaar is an ideal place to find gifts for you and your near and dear ones to take home. 

Good to Know 

Prices of spices may vary from stall to stall; hence, exploring a few stalls before making a purchase is helpful. Some shops at the bazaar vacuum-seal items for easier travel packing. The Turkish delight varieties you find here are more flavourful than those in packaged varieties. 

Galata Tower

Galata Tower stands tall above the surrounding neighbourhood, offering a panoramic view of Istanbul’s layered skyline. Climbing to the viewing deck at the Galata Tower gives you a moment to take in the domes, minarets, rolling hills and the Bosphorus stretching into the distance. The experience around the tower is peaceful and perfect for families to simply stand still, look around, and admire the beauty of the surroundings. The area is filled with charming cafes and narrow streets as well, so you can sip on a hot cup of Turkish tea while exploring the Galata Tower. 

Good to Know 

Entry tickets are required to visit the tower. Queues can form during peak hours, so arriving earlier smoothens the experience. 

Dolmabahçe Palace 

Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the places to see near Istanbul that reflects a different chapter of Ottoman history, where European architectural influences blend with traditional design. The palace interiors are adorned with crystal chandeliers, silk carpets and elaborately decorated halls. Walking through the palace's rooms gives you an understanding of how the empire adapted and evolved in its later years. The palace sits right by the water, making the outdoor surroundings equally calming and beautiful. 

Good to Know 

Entry tickets are required to visit the palace and can be purchased in advance. Certain sections of the palace can only be viewed with a guided tour, so ensure you have a guide with you. Also, visitors must notice that the palace remains closed on Mondays. 

Istiklal Street and Taksim Square

Istiklal Street and Taksim Square are where the city's energy gathers; hence, do not miss out on adding them to your must-do list in Istanbul. The street is packed with cafes, bakeries, bookshops, boutiques and street musicians. You can explore both the streets at your own pace, stopping for Turkish tea, browsing small shops, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere. Taksim Square marks the heart of this area and is often where events and certain celebrations take place. 

Good to Know 

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended while exploring the streets, as you may need to walk a lot. Many restaurants here serve traditional desserts, such as Kunafa and Baklava, which one must not miss. 

Princes’ Islands

The Princes’ Islands offer a gentle break from the city’s pace, where you can just soak yourself in the serene beauty of the place and enjoy a laid-back time. With no car honkings, the quiet streets are perfect for walking or cycling. The waterfront at the Princes’ Islands is lined with small cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy simple meals and uninterrupted views of the sea. It is a place that encourages you to slow down and stay present. 

Good to Know 

Regular ferries depart from several piers in Istanbul; book yours in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. Renting bicycles here at the Princes’ Islands is a comfortable and enjoyable way to explore the place. 

So, have you ever visited a city that feels familiar even though you are seeing it for the first time? Istanbul is one such place that absolutely has that effect. The city welcomes you with its gentle Bosphorus breeze, the aroma of fresh Turkish tea, the distant echo of prayer calls and streets where every corner holds a story.  

At Veena World, we craft each Istanbul tour package to help you soak in these moments at the right pace. The well-curated itineraries by Veena World balance iconic landmarks with meaningful local experiences, ensuring your journey feels relaxed, enriching and truly unforgettable. From guided visits to comfortable stays and thoughtful trip inclusions, Veena World is here to make your Istanbul experience one you will never forget and cherish forever. 

 

FAQs  

Q1 Are there local nightlife experiences away from Istiklal Avenue? 

You can head to jazz bars in Nişantaşı, traditional meyhanes in Arnavutköy, and Bosphorus-side pubs in Kandilli for an authentic evening.  

Q2. Are there offbeat ways to see Istanbul’s architecture? 

Explore Ottoman-era houses in Balat, colourful wooden mansions in Arnavutköy, and hidden Byzantine arches scattered around the historic peninsula. 

Q3. Can I discover Istanbul’s coffee culture beyond Turkish coffee? 

Sip artisanal brews in Karaköy and Moda, sample speciality coffee roasts in Galata, or join a coffee cupping session at a local micro-roastery. 

Q4. Are there secret spots for photography enthusiasts? 

Find hidden alleys in Balat, the ferries at dawn, rooftop cafes with minaret silhouettes, and abandoned Ottoman-era warehouses along the Golden Horn. 

Q5. Can I experience Istanbul like a local for a day? 

Of course you can. Take a ferry to the Princes’ Islands, rent a bicycle, enjoy a picnic by the Marmara Sea, shop at local farmers’ markets, and finish with tea at a neighbourhood kahvehane.