10 Incredible Things to Do in Istanbul Turkey

Istanbul is the lively center of Turkey and no other city is quite like it. Istanbul is found in both Europe and Asia and mixes its history, culture, art, and modern life. Istanbul is full of grand mosques, old palaces, busy markets, and beautiful waterfronts for every visitor to explore. If history, food, or culture are your interests, you won’t be disappointed in this city.

Taking a Turkey Tour allows you to experience the country’s long history and kindness. Because of its cultural importance, Istanbul is usually the highlight of any Turkey Tour Package. Having structures like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque close to lively Karaköy and Taksim, Istanbul shows a great mix of the old and the new. If you want your visit to Istanbul to be very special, try these ten amazing activities.

Here are some of the incredible things to do in Istanbul, Turkey.

1. Be amazed by the Hagia Sophia.

Every visit to Istanbul should include a stop at the famous Hagia Sophia. At various times, this building served as a Byzantine cathedral, an Ottoman mosque, and now it is both a mosque and a museum, sharing the city’s long and interesting past. Because of its great dome, beautiful mosaics, and marble columns, Hagia Sophia is a true example of ancient architecture and art. During every Turkey Tour Package, this place is a must-see and demonstrates how two great empires came together.

2. Go to the Grand Bazaar and see what it has to offer.

Wander through the lively stalls in the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and biggest covered markets around the world. Since there are over 4,000 shops on 60 streets, this place is a dream for shoppers. Turkish carpets, lanterns, jewelry, leather items, and ceramics are among the crafts you can buy. Talking to shopkeepers is one of the enjoyable aspects of traveling. Shopping or just looking, you can enjoy the real culture of Turkey that makes any tour more memorable.

3. Pay a visit to the Blue Mosque, which is also called the Sultan Ahmed Mosque.

Facing the Hagia Sophia is the Blue Mosque, which is notable for its six tall minarets and for its interior, which is covered in thousands of blue İznik tiles. The mosque is still in use and represents Istanbul’s Islamic traditions. People can visit the mosque during non-prayer hours, and it is good to dress respectfully. Adding this structure to your Turkey Tour Package helps you value the city’s variety of religions and cultures.

4. Enjoy a trip on the Bosphorus Strait.

A cruise on the Bosphorus gives a special look at Istanbul’s cityscape and lets you sail between two continents. While passing Ottoman palaces, old mansions, and historic fortresses, you get a new view of the city’s beauty. A lot of Turkey Tour Packages offer cruises on the Bosphorus during the day or evening, which includes dinner and traditional music, providing a peaceful experience to enjoy the city’s romantic atmosphere.

5. Visit Topkapi Palace

See the grand life of sultans at the Topkapi Palace, which was the main home of Ottoman leaders for many generations. The palace has spacious courtyards, beautiful jewels, holy relics, and offers amazing views of the Bosphorus. The section devoted to the Harem reveals some of the ways the royals lived in the palace. Visiting this site will add a lot of history to your Turkey Tour.

6. Try out the Turkish dishes at a local restaurant.

The food in Istanbul mixes the traditional Ottoman dishes with new and modern ideas. No matter if you try street food or fancy dishes, Istanbul offers an amazing range of foods. Try to have a traditional Turkish breakfast, sample some mezze, or enjoy a cup of Turkish tea while looking at the Bosphorus. Culinary attractions are usually included in custom Turkey Tour Packages, making your trip more enjoyable.

7. Go to the Basilica Cistern as part of your journey.

Istanbul’s busy streets hide the Basilica Cistern, a giant underground water reservoir that was constructed in the 6th century. Because of its dim lighting, huge marble columns, and Medusa-head pillar bases, the place feels both mysterious and fascinating. You’ll get to experience some cool air and learn more about Turkey by visiting this place.

8. Take a walk on Istiklal Street and then visit Taksim Square.

Istanbul’s Istiklal Street is a popular pedestrian place that is always lively. Along the street are shops, cafes, galleries, and old buildings, and it finishes at the famous Taksim Square. Try the vintage red tram, enjoy street entertainers, or just watch people from a café along the street. This area is a great contrast to the city’s historic places and cannot be missed on any Turkey Tour Package.

9. Enjoy a beautiful view from the top of the Galata Tower.

A great way to see both old and new parts of Istanbul is by climbing the Galata Tower. First constructed in the 14th century, today the tower’s top floor gives visitors a wide view of the city. During sunny days, you are able to see the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, and all the major buildings in the city. Galata Tower is an ideal spot for taking pictures and should not be missed on your Turkey Tour.

10. You can find Asian Istanbul in the neighborhood of Kadıköy.

Get on a ferry to cross the Bosphorus and enjoy the Asian part of the city, especially in the vibrant Kadıköy neighborhood. Because of its calm atmosphere, modern cafes, cultural spots, and markets, Kadıköy is known for being less crowded by tourists. You can relax here, dig into seafood by the water, and find interesting items in bookstores and antique places. If you include Kadıköy in your Turkey Tour Package, you’ll have a complete blend of Eastern and Western cultures.

Conclusion

Istanbul is not only a city; it’s a museum of history, and each street has something to tell about kings, merchants, poets, and dreamers who once lived here. The city’s unique sound is heard in the call to prayer in old domes and in the laughs of people drinking tea by the sea. The mix of tradition and fashion makes it special for every traveler who comes and discovers its historical sites.

If you choose the right Turkey Tour Package, you get to enjoy the famous sights and also find lesser-known places. No matter if you admire great buildings, enjoy delicious food, or take a trip to another continent, Istanbul makes sure you value Turkey’s heritage. When you plan a Turkey Tour in Istanbul, it becomes an endless journey into the heart of one of the world’s most fascinating cities.