Best Things to Do in Istanbul: A Local Guide's Recommendations

Welcome to Istanbul, where ancient history and modern life seamlessly intertwine. As a city that spans two continents, it offers travelers a wealth of experiences—from majestic palaces to bustling markets and delicious food. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Istanbul, you’re in for a treat. As your local guide, I’ll share the top highlights of the city, along with some tips, gear recommendations, and insider hacks to make your visit truly unforgettable.

Discover the Historical Treasures in Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is Istanbul’s old town and the perfect starting point for first-time visitors. This area is rich in history, with some of the city’s most iconic landmarks just a short walk from each other.

Hagia Sophia

Start your adventure at Hagia Sophia, an awe-inspiring building that has served as both a church and a mosque, and now stands as a museum. The scale and beauty of the domed ceilings are breathtaking. Arriving early is key to avoiding the long lines, and booking your tickets in advance can save you time. Don’t forget to bring a wide-angle lens if you’re into photography—it’s hard to capture the grandeur without one.

Blue Mosque

Directly across from Hagia Sophia is the world-renowned Blue Mosque, named after the stunning blue tiles that decorate its interior. Since this is still an active mosque, try to visit during non-prayer times. As with all mosques, you’ll need to remove your shoes upon entering, so having slip-on shoes or sandals can make things easier.

Topkapi Palace

Another highlight in Sultanahmet is Topkapi Palace, where Ottoman sultans once lived. This sprawling palace complex boasts beautiful gardens, courtyards, and the famous Harem. Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a lot of ground to cover—and pack a portable charger for your phone because you’ll likely take tons of photos. The views over the Bosphorus from the palace grounds are spectacular.

Experience the Bustling Bazaars

Istanbul’s bazaars are a feast for the senses. If you love to shop, haggle, and explore local culture, these markets will capture your imagination. Two of the most famous ones are the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar.

Grand Bazaar

As one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar offers a labyrinth of shops selling everything from carpets and jewelry to ceramics and textiles. It’s easy to get lost here—both figuratively and literally—so my advice is to venture off the main roads into the side alleys where you’ll find unique items at better prices. And remember, haggling is expected, so don’t be shy!

Spice Bazaar

Located near the waterfront, the Spice Bazaar is smaller but equally charming, specializing in spices, Turkish delight, dried fruits, and nuts. This is the perfect place to pick up some gifts or stock up on ingredients to bring home. One hack for packing spices: bring resealable bags to keep your purchases fresh and your luggage organized.

Take a Bosphorus Cruise

Seeing Istanbul from the water is a must. The Bosphorus Strait divides the city into its European and Asian sides, and cruising along it offers incredible views of Istanbul’s skyline, palaces, and bridges.

Day or Night?

Daytime cruises offer the best views of landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Fortress, while evening cruises provide a more romantic experience with the city lights reflecting on the water. Either way, bring a light jacket as it can get windy on the water, even in summer.

Hop-On, Hop-Off Option

For a more flexible experience, some cruises allow you to hop on and off at different piers, giving you the chance to explore various neighborhoods along the Bosphorus. Be sure to disembark at Ortaköy, where you can try the famous kumpir (stuffed baked potato) or waffle from a street vendor while enjoying views of the Bosphorus Bridge.

Explore Istanbul’s Unique Neighborhoods

One of the best things to do in Istanbul is to get off the beaten path and explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its own personality and charm.

Karaköy and Galata

Karaköy is a trendy neighborhood with street art, cafes, and boutique shops. Make sure to visit one of the local coffee shops to try Turkish coffee or a sweet pastry. Afterward, walk up the hill to the Galata Tower, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city. A travel hack: visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon will help you avoid the crowds.

Balat and Fener

For a more historic vibe, head to Balat and Fener, known for their colorful, crumbling houses and narrow cobblestone streets. These neighborhoods offer a glimpse into the multicultural past of Istanbul. Take your time exploring the alleys and snapping photos of the vibrant facades. Comfortable shoes are a must as the streets can be steep and uneven.

Beyoglu and Istiklal Avenue

For a mix of modern shopping, dining, and nightlife, Beyoglu is the place to go. Istiklal Avenue is a lively pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Take a ride on the historic tram that runs through the heart of Istiklal for a fun, old-world experience. Pro tip: Beyoglu is also a great spot for dinner, with plenty of rooftop restaurants offering stunning views of the Golden Horn.

Savor Istanbul’s Culinary Delights

No visit to Istanbul is complete without indulging in its delicious food. From street eats to gourmet dining, the city has it all.

Turkish Kebabs

You can’t leave Istanbul without trying a kebab. Whether it’s the spicy Adana kebab or the rich, saucy Iskender kebab, there’s a version for every palate. Many small family-owned restaurants in neighborhoods like Karaköy or Kadıköy offer some of the best and most authentic flavors.

Baklava and Turkish Delight

If you have a sweet tooth, Istanbul is a paradise. Head to Karaköy Güllüoğlu, one of the most famous spots for baklava, where you can try different varieties of this sweet, flaky pastry. Don’t forget to sample Turkish delight while you’re there—it's the perfect gift to bring home.

Turkish Tea and Coffee

Tea (çay) is a staple of Turkish life and is served in small tulip-shaped glasses. For something stronger, try Turkish coffee—it’s rich, thick, and often accompanied by a fortune-telling tradition from the leftover grounds.

Final Tips for a Memorable Istanbul Trip

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal for visiting Istanbul, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Getting Around: Use an Istanbulkart for easy access to trams, buses, ferries, and metro lines.

Currency: The Turkish lira is used, but many places accept credit cards. Always have a bit of cash on hand for smaller vendors or street food.

There you have it—a guide to the best things to do in Istanbul. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and incredible food, Istanbul offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.