#Things to Do in Istanbul

[gvidilo]

Istanbul Bucket List | 100 Epic Things To Do In Istanbul Turkey

[travelreportai]

Experience Istanbul Like Never Before: A 10-Day Travel Itinerary for 2024

Istanbul, where East meets West, is a city brimming with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to its ancient Byzantine relics or its modern-day cosmopolitan charm, Istanbul offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. From bustling markets to serene Bosphorus views, this 10-day travel itinerary will guide you through the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites. Get ready to dive into the heart of this mesmerizing city!

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Sultanahmet

Your journey begins in the historic heart of Istanbul—Sultanahmet. After checking into your hotel, spend the day exploring some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

Hagia Sophia: Start your morning with a visit to Hagia Sophia, one of the world’s most famous architectural marvels. This former Greek Orthodox Christian basilica turned mosque is a symbol of Istanbul’s layered history.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): Just a short walk away, the Blue Mosque enchants visitors with its stunning blue tiles and six towering minarets. Remember to dress modestly, as it’s still an active place of worship.

Basilica Cistern: Descend underground to the Basilica Cistern, a fascinating ancient water storage system dating back to the 6th century. The eerie atmosphere created by dim lighting and the sound of dripping water is unforgettable.

End your day with a traditional Turkish dinner at a restaurant in Sultanahmet. Try dishes like kebabs, meze, and baklava for dessert.

Day 2: Topkapi Palace and Gülhane Park

Dive deeper into Istanbul’s Ottoman history by spending the day at Topkapi Palace and its surroundings.

Topkapi Palace: Once home to the Ottoman sultans, this sprawling palace complex offers an intriguing look into royal life. Don’t miss the Imperial Treasury, where you can marvel at precious jewels and the famous Topkapi Dagger.

Gülhane Park: Adjacent to Topkapi Palace, this park offers a peaceful retreat. Stroll through its manicured gardens, where locals come to relax and enjoy the greenery.

In the evening, explore the local cafés and grab a Turkish coffee at a cozy spot with a view of the Bosphorus.

Day 3: The Grand Bazaar and Spice Market

Today is all about immersing yourself in the vibrant commercial life of Istanbul.

Grand Bazaar: One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar is a treasure trove of Turkish goods. From intricate carpets to hand-painted ceramics, you’ll find everything here. Be prepared to haggle!

Spice Bazaar: After exploring the Grand Bazaar, head to the nearby Spice Bazaar for aromatic spices, teas, and sweets. The vibrant colors and smells will captivate your senses.

In the evening, take a boat tour along the Bosphorus, where you’ll get breathtaking views of both the European and Asian sides of the city.

Day 4: Bosphorus Cruise and Ortaköy

Experience the beauty of Istanbul’s skyline from the water and enjoy a leisurely day exploring some of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods.

Bosphorus Cruise: A morning cruise on the Bosphorus will give you stunning views of palaces, mosques, and the iconic Bosphorus Bridge. Many boat tours offer guided commentary on the history of the landmarks you pass.

Ortaköy: After your cruise, spend time in Ortaköy, a charming neighborhood famous for its waterfront cafés and lively atmosphere. Try the local delicacy, kumpir (stuffed baked potato), as you stroll through the streets.

In the evening, have dinner at a restaurant offering Bosphorus views. Seafood is particularly popular in this area.

Day 5: Galata Tower and Taksim Square

Head to the modern part of Istanbul to explore Galata and Taksim.

Galata Tower: Start your day by visiting the Galata Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a great spot for photos, so be sure to bring your camera!

Istiklal Street: After descending from the tower, walk along Istiklal Street, a bustling pedestrian avenue lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. Don’t miss the historic red trams that run along the street.

Taksim Square: End your day at Taksim Square, the beating heart of modern Istanbul. It’s a great place to people-watch and take in the city’s energy.

For dinner, explore the trendy restaurants and bars in the nearby Karaköy area.

Day 6: Day Trip to Princes’ Islands

Take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle with a day trip to the Princes’ Islands, a group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara.

Buyukada : The largest of the islands, Buyukada is known for its peaceful ambiance and historic charm. Rent a bicycle or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore the island, as motor vehicles are not allowed.

Lunch by the Sea: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many seaside restaurants. The views of the sea and Istanbul’s skyline in the distance are truly special.

Return to Istanbul in the evening, feeling refreshed and ready for more exploration.

Day 7: Dolmabahce Palace and Besiktas

Spend the day in Besiktas, home to some of Istanbul’s most stunning palaces and vibrant neighborhoods.

Dolmabahce Palace: A symbol of the Ottoman Empire’s final years, Dolmabahce Palace is an opulent masterpiece. Its grandeur, with crystal chandeliers, lavish rooms, and sprawling gardens, will leave you in awe.

Besiktas: After touring the palace, explore the Besiktas district, known for its lively atmosphere and excellent restaurants. Stop by the famous fish market to sample some local fare.

If you’re a soccer fan, check to see if there’s a match at Vodafone Park, home to the Besiktas football team.

Day 8: Istanbul Modern and Contemporary Art

Today, explore Istanbul’s art scene.

Istanbul Modern: Start your day with a visit to Istanbul Modern, a contemporary art museum showcasing both Turkish and international artists. The building itself is located on the Bosphorus, offering stunning views.

Pera Museum: Afterward, head to the Pera Museum, which houses an eclectic collection ranging from Orientalist art to modern pieces.

In the evening, dine in the trendy Nisantasi neighborhood, known for its upscale restaurants and boutiques.

Day 9: Chora Church and Balat

Explore one of Istanbul’s most historic and colorful neighborhoods today.

Chora Church: Begin your day with a visit to Chora Church, known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. It’s a bit off the beaten path but well worth the trip.

Balat: After visiting the church, head to the Balat district, known for its colorful houses and narrow, winding streets. This area has a bohemian vibe, with lots of small cafés and antique shops to explore.

For dinner, find a local meyhane (tavern) and enjoy traditional Turkish mezes and raki.

Day 10: Relax and Reflect

Your last day in Istanbul is a chance to take it easy and revisit any favorite spots.

Relaxing Hammam Experience: Start your day with a visit to a traditional Turkish bath (hamam) for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Some of the most famous hamams in the city include the Cagaloglu Hamam and the Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam.

Last-Minute Shopping: If you’ve got time, pick up any last-minute souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar or local shops.

End your trip with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, taking in the city’s breathtaking skyline one last time.

Conclusion: Travel Report for Istanbul 2024

As you wrap up your 10-day journey through Istanbul, you’ve experienced the perfect blend of historical marvels, modern luxuries, and vibrant culture. The city’s unique position as a crossroads of civilizations offers endless discoveries, from the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the bustling markets of the Grand Bazaar. You’ve sailed along the Bosphorus, tasted local delicacies, and explored both the European and Asian sides of this magnificent metropolis.

Travel Report Highlights for 2024:

Cultural Immersion: The historic neighborhoods of Sultanahmet and Balat provided a rich cultural experience, while the modern vibes of Taksim and Karaköy balanced tradition with contemporary life.

Dining: Turkish cuisine, with its blend of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian flavors, was a highlight of the trip. Every meal, from street food to fine dining, told a story.

Art and Architecture: From Byzantine mosaics to Ottoman palaces, Istanbul is a feast for the eyes. Art enthusiasts found joy in the galleries of Istanbul Modern and the historic beauty of Chora Church.

Local Life: Whether sipping tea in Gülhane Park or bargaining in the Grand Bazaar, you experienced the daily rhythm of life in Istanbul.

This itinerary ensures that travelers in 2024 not only see the iconic sights but also experience the soul of Istanbul. From the moment you arrive to your final Bosphorus sunset, Istanbul offers something magical for every visitor. Safe travels, and enjoy your adventure in this timeless city!

[tourist-destinations]

Best 7 Things to do in Istanbul

Ever thought of stepping on two continents at once? Well, you can! When you visit Istanbul, you get to be in Europe and Asia as the city straddles between these two continents. The result? You experience an enriched Eurasian culture with a touch of Middle Eastern influence. Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and spreads from one edge of Asia to the edge of Europe, split in the middle by the famous Bosphorus Strait. The city is flanked by the Red Sea and The Marmara Sea, giving it a medley of Mediterranean and Oceanic climate. Head to Istanbul in March to May or September to November for the perfect weather to explore the city. But what are the best things to do in Istanbul for visitors? Here are our top 7 picks that you must include in Istanbul holiday packages. 

Visit the Archaic Grand Mosques of Turkey

Did you know there are more than 2500 mosques scattered all over Istanbul? The mosques of Istanbul are the showstopper of the city. The city gets an old-world charm with the grand medley of Ottoman and Byzantine architecture. The most eye-catching mosques of the lot to visit are undoubtedly the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Süleymaniye Mosque. The incredible magnificence of these mosques, the stunning facade, and the intricate details of mosaics add to the allure of this city. Once you are done with your mosque visits, head to Galata Bridge for an unrivalled view of the sun setting, turning the ambience auburn. The silhouette of mosque domes and emirates adds to the magnificence of the panorama.

Venture Out on a Verdant Hike in Belgrade Forest

Image credit: wikipedia.org

Most tourists have tales of visiting mosques and bazaars or sailing on the Bosphorus Strait after visiting Istanbul. But the city also has a natural scenery to offer. Visit Belgrade forest to enjoy verdant panoramas. This forest is the largest in Istanbul and spans more than 5000 acres, sheathed mostly in dense sessile oak trees. It is an idyllic place for long nature strolls in beautiful trails and wildlife spotting. 

Visit Gülhane Park

Image credit: zentravellers.com

Once an extension of Topkapi Palace, today, Gülhane Park is a famous urban park in Istanbul that locals love to visit. It is an idyllic spot to stroll under the canopy of dense trees, view historic statues and water fountains and even a place to enjoy a hot cup of tea while enjoying the verdant views. If you are in Turkey during spring, then the park is an absolute must-visit as the green landscape turns into a sea of blossoming tulips- a sight to behold! 

Shop at the Grand Bazaar

There is no way that you can miss a stop at the famous Grand Bazaar of Turkey. This historic market is the most bustling shopping arena in the city. Imagine being able to shop from over 4000 shops lined across 61 streets selling everything from aromatic spices and jewellery to souvenirs and textiles! It is so vast that it has 22 gates for visitors to enter and exit. You won't believe how quickly time goes when visiting this enormous bazaar, so plan on spending three to four hours there. Famished after the shopping haul? There are over 400 food stalls and traditional eateries that offer mezes, grilled kebabs, Turkish tea, and sweets.

Marvel the Topkapi Palace

This grand palace once served as the residence of Ottoman royalty and is, in the present time, one of the most fascinating landmarks to visit in Turkey. A definite feature in Istanbul travel package inclusions, this palace-turned-museum offers an insight into the royal lives and old-world lifestyles during the Ottoman Empire. The architecture is marvellous, and the view from the hilltop of the Golden Horn is a sight you will remember for a long time. 

Take the Bosphorus Cruise

One of the most popular Istanbul activities to do on a Turkey holiday is to enjoy the serene skyline dotted with Istanbul’s stellar landmarks while gliding on the Bosphorus Strait. A journey on the Bosphorus Cruise lets you enjoy the cool breeze while taking in the sights of Istanbul on two continents. The Bosphorus Strait divides Istanbul into Asian and European sections, and this cruise is the best way to see the uniqueness of both worlds at a time. You can take a Bosphorus cruise with a lunch option, a short round trip of 2 hours, or plan to spend an evening on the cruise with a delectable dinner and view Istanbul’s beauty in illumination.  

Indulge in Turkish Cuisine

Work up an appetite before you visit Istanbul because the Turkish food scene is an amazing sensory adventure for your tastebuds. Here, you start your day right with the grand spread of Turkish breakfast at Beşiktaş district, consisting of an assortment of cheese, eggs, fresh jams, and tea. While exploring the city, get some Turkish candies to munch on from Altan Şekerleme or treat yourself to decadent Turkish delights and marzipan. Wine and dine at Mikla, enjoy the beloved street snack of locals - kumpir in ​​Ortaköy, try out traditional Anatolian Dishes at Çiya; whatever experience you choose, it will definitely leave an indelible mark on your mind. Don’t forget to enjoy a rooftop dining experience to view the beauty of the city at sunset. For the best cheap eats, head to Grand Bazaar on a food tour. 

Conclusion

Istanbul’s grandeur and charming vibe will steal your heart and make you fall in love with it the first time you visit. This transcontinental city is easily accessible and is one of the best countries to visit from UAE. Surrounded by captivating sea views, verdant forests, and timeless architectural gems, Istanbul should be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

[navramanan]

Hello, I've recently found out about newruz and was surprised that my family didn't celebrate it or rather that they never talked about it.

(I'm kurmanji kurd from Turkey but was born in Germany. Maybe it isn't commonly celebrated in Turkey?)

Do you celebrate Newruz? Thank you for giving us resources for learning kurdish!!🌷

Have a nice day!!❤️🌷

You're welcome and thank you <3 also no we dont celebrate

[commontraveler]

What to do in a Layover in Istanbul

What if I told you that you could visit Istanbul in a few hours? That’s right, if you take a flight on Turkish Airlines with a long layover in Istanbul, you too can experience the magic of this city.  Other airlines offer free layovers, where you can add a stopover in their home airport. For example, add a stop in Reykjavik if you’re flying with Icelandair or a stop in Lisbon or Porto if you’re…

[spaceoperetta]

ok I know that was a /lot/ of Istanbul (and istanbul was a lot) but...cappadocia is next....I loved cappadocia it was like colorado but different I was screaming in my heart

[crescentmp3]

also hi i live

[cinematicnomad]

For the sleepover Saturday thing, have you ever need memorably disappointed by a place you've gone to?

alienmythologist asked: *been not need in that last ask

memorably disappointed?? ummm, let me think.

honestly? no, i don't think so. everywhere i've been i feel like there's always been SOMETHING rewarding and exciting about the experience. sure there have been trips where things weren't as fun as i wanted or i didn't get to do as much as i hoped, but whatever disappointments might have existed in the moment fade over time. all that remains is the good.

sleepover weekend

[topthingstodo]

Best Things to Do in Istanbul in October [2024]

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul in October and wondering how to make the most of your visit? Look no further! As someone who has explored the marvelous city of Istanbul during this enchanting month, I am excited to share some insider tips and recommendations with you to ensure your experience is nothing short of spectacular.

A Glimpse Into Istanbul's October Charm

In October, Istanbul truly shines with a unique blend of cultural events, pleasant weather, and vibrant activities that cater to every taste. The cityscape adorned with autumn colors creates a mesmerizing backdrop for your adventures.

1. Hagia Sophia: Dive into history at the iconic Hagia Sophia, a marvel of Byzantine architecture that has stood the test of time. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a must-visit attraction.

2. Blue Mosque: Experience the tranquility and beauty of the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Admire its intricate tile work and impressive domes as you bask in its spiritual aura.

3. Spice Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the sensory delight of the Spice Bazaar, a paradise for foodies and spice enthusiasts. Explore the stalls brimming with colorful spices, teas, and local treats.

4. Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. Savor delicious Turkish cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of the city's skyline illuminated at night.

5. Balat Neighborhood: Wander through the charming streets of Balat, a vibrant neighborhood known for its colorful houses and artistic flair. Discover quaint cafes, boutique shops, and street art that add to its bohemian charm.

6. Chora Church: Step back in time at the Chora Church, adorned with stunning mosaics and frescoes that depict Byzantine art at its finest. It's a hidden gem that promises a tranquil and awe-inspiring visit.

Seize the Opportunities of Istanbul in October

Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or simply seeking new experiences, Istanbul in October offers a captivating array of activities that cater to all interests. The pleasant weather and festive atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for exploration and discovery.

So pack your bags, prepare your itinerary, and get ready to embark on a memorable journey through the enchanting streets of Istanbul. October awaits with open arms, ready to charm you with its treasures and timeless allure.

Remember, Istanbul in October is not just a destination; it's an experience waiting to unfold.

Let the magic of this vibrant city captivate your senses and leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime!

By immersing yourself in Istanbul's vibrant culture and rich history, you're sure to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Explore the diverse array of activities, from historical sites to culinary delights, and let Istanbul in October enchant you in ways you never thought possible.

[carylee1]

Explore the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Istanbul. From historic landmarks to culinary delights, plan your unforgettable trip with expert insights at https://www.oneair.ai/guides/destination-of-the-month-may-2024-istanbul-turkey/

[gvidilo]

Top 15 Museums in Istanbul | Best Places To Visit in Istanbul 

[turkeytrips]

Are You Planning for Honeymoon in Turkey?

A wedding day can be challenging. Planning could take up to a year and dealing with all the minutiae might leave you and your family exhausted. There are many decisions to be made, ranging from choosing the ideal location to choosing the most beautiful attire ever. You may feel exhausted the day after the wedding. It’s time to unwind and repair your relationship with your sweetheart after all the…

[elena-ferrante]

ok apparently this film is Bad but vicky krieps and ingeborg bachmann………. my 2 passions

[kimmkitsuragi]

i think my brain is catching up with. everything. just now

[theirloveisgross]

I KNEW ITTT!!!!!!!!!!!

I can take a sign to their show tomorrow that says "see you in Latam!", hajdhahs.

👀👀👀

they're touring the us until may 5th and they have a show in istanbul on may 28th. but hey, maybe they could open a few shows... not the whole leg. louis' had a few openers on the previous legs so... giant rooks for uruguay, argentina, paraguay, chile..? ugh, louis! announce the openers already!!! and bring tldp too somehow, thanks.