15 Best Things to Do When Traveling in Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most exciting tourist attractions that you can find out there in the world. It offers plenty of attractions for every traveler. As a result, we can assume that there is something for everyone traveling to Istanbul. But before you visit Istanbul, it is better to have a basic understanding about the tourist attractions that you can experience. This will assist you to avoid last minute hassle while you are spending your time in Istanbul.

Here is a list of 15 best things available for you to do when you are traveling in Istanbul.

1. Bosphorus Cruise

A journey to Istanbul would never be complete without taking a ride in the Bosphorus Cruise. It would not just assist you to get a nice overview about the entire city, but can also provide you the ability to explore the old mansions and palaces, which have their own galore. Several cruises are available for the people who consider Bosphorus Cruise and you can go for the best one out of them.

2. Grand Bazaar

If you are a bargain hunter, Grand Bazaar is the place that you should visit. This is one of the oldest markets in the world, with a history of over 500 years. It is also considered as one of the biggest covered bazaars that you can find around the world. This bazaar covers a massive area, with 60 different streets. It contains more than 5,000 shops as well.

3. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts can be considered as one of the most exciting attractions available in Istanbul for you to visit. It is located in the former Ibrahim Pasa palace. This museum has got an exciting collection, with over 40,000 items on display. Every single room that you can see in Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts focuses on a specific area or period of the Islamic world.

4. Archaeology Museum

This is one of the hidden gems in Istanbul. You will be able to get hold of the world’s richest antique collection while you are spending time at this museum. By paying a visit to this museum, you will also be able to get a better understanding about the first ever surviving peace treaty of the world.

5. Basilica Cistern

Istanbul has got some of the greatest underground attractions as well. Basilica Cistern is one of them. Classical music and dimmed light transform this into one of the most romantic destinations in Istanbul for you to enjoy.

6. Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace is a complex of pavilions and kiosks, which are comprised of lush green courtyards. Sultans that belong to many different generations have lived in Topkapi Palace. You will be able to get a better understanding about their lives by visiting the Topkapi Palace.

7. Hagia Sophia

Even though Hagia Sophia is a museum, it has earlier been a mosque. This can be considered as one of the greatest archeological achievements in the world as well. Before transforming the mosque into a museum, a lot of restoration work has been done on it as well.

8. Hamam Scrub

This can be considered as one of the best options available for you to rejuvenate your body while you are spending your time in Istanbul. You will get the chance to walk a lot while you are spending time at Istanbul. What if you can rejuvenate your body and mind after such a tiresome day at work? Hamam scrub would provide you with that opportunity.

9. Visit the Local Markets

The local markets in Istanbul are filled with a variety of food items. You would love to shop due to the availability of all these variations. The best thing about the food available for you in local markets at Istanbul is that all of them are made by following a fresh procedure. On top of everything, you will be able to receive a warm welcome by all the stallholders at the Istanbul local markets.

10. Bebek

If you want to get hold of the best in natural beauty, Bebek is the place that you should visit. This is a local area in Istanbul, which is quite unpopular among the tourists. However, the wealthy and lively green neighborhood of Bebek would definitely impress you.

11. Galata Tower

If you want to get hold of a panoramic 360 degree view of Istanbul, Galata Tower is the ideal destination to visit. If you climb this tower on a bright day, you will even be able to see the Prince Islands. You can find a restaurant in the 9th floor of this tower.

12. Dolmabahçe Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the most fascinating destinations that you can see in Istanbul. This is a massive palace, which was constructed by Sultan Abdul Mecit back in 1856. The best thing about Dolmabahçe Palace is that it has been built with the excessive use of marble, crystal and gold leaf.

13. Chora Church

Chora Church is located just next to the walls of the old city. It can be considered as one of the most amazing religious buildings that you can see in the city. The ceilings and walls of Chora Church are provided with stunning images of frescoes and mosaics. This is one of the most significant landmarks in the Christian world as well.

14. Süleymaniye Mosque

Apart from the iconic blue mosque, Süleymaniye Mosque is one of the greatest tourist attractions that you can see in Istanbul. This can even be considered as the most impressive and nicest mosque that you can see in Istanbul. As a result, it attracts thousands of travelers into Istanbul. Süleymaniye Mosque is not just a mosque and the building contains a school, kitchen and a hospital.

15. Experience the Nightlife in Istanbul

Last but not least, you shouldn’t forget to experience the fascinating nightlife in Istanbul. You can enjoy your favorite drink while taking part in a live performance. In addition, plenty of concerts are being organized here in Süleymaniye Mosque for you to take part throughout the entire year. You can find a large number of open air venues in Istanbul as well.