Ultimate Guide to Istanbul [What to see,stay,eat + do]

Our Guide to Istanbul includes everything you need to know to plan your visit, including what to see, where to stay, what to eat, what to wear and the best day trips.

Istanbul is a destination that never fails to impress. With its skyline of domes and minarets, vibrant markets, ancient ruins, and buzzing neighbourhoods, this city is a feast for the senses. However, it can feel overwhelming for visitors, (especially first timers) as there is so much to see and experience.

This guide is based on our recent trip to Turkey and it will help you plan your perfect trip. We cover where to stay, what to eat, what to wear, and the top must-see sights. We’ll also share our tips on the best day tours to make the most of your time in this unforgettable city.

Whether you’re crossing continents by ferry to enjoy a glass of çay while watching the sun set over the Bosphorus or navigating the bazaars, our guide will help you navigate Istanbul with confidence. 

Read – 12 Essential Travel Tips for Your First Trip to Istanbul

🌟 Guide to Istanbul – Top 10 Things to Do

Hagia Sophia

This architectural marvel is the symbol of Istanbul and has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum. It was converted back into a functioning mosque in 2020. You’ll be awed by its vast dome, Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman details. 

Tourists can only visit certain parts of the mosque and must buy tickets to enter. We recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid long queues. It’s essential to use the correct entrance for tourists and to dress respectfully (women must also cover their heads). 

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Mosque)

Just across from the Hagia Sophia, the 17th century Blue Mosque is famous for its six minarets and its 20,000 striking blue İznik tiles (all of which were hand painted).

As it’s an active mosque, it closes for 90 minutes six times a day for prayer so plan your visit carefully. Fridays are very busy so we recommend visiting another day if possible. Entry is free.

Topkapi Palace

The opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi offers insight into imperial life with its lavish courtyards, ornate rooms, and the fascinating Harem section.

You’ll need around 3 hours to explore this enormous UNESCO World Heritage site. We advise booking tickets in advance and visiting as early in the day as you can to avoid crowds. 

If you do not want to buy an entry ticket, you can visit the first courtyard and the museum for free. 

Grand Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the labyrinth of over 4,000 shops selling everything from Turkish carpets and lanterns to jewellery, spices, and souvenirs. We were dazzled by the colours, noise and bustle. Note that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays. 

Our top tip? Be ready to haggle! Just remember to be polite and be prepared to walk away. 

Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarşısı)

A 10 minute walk from the Grand Bazaar is the smaller Spice Bazaar (also called the Egyptian Bazaar).

This vibrant market is the place to buy Turkish delights, saffron, dried fruits, teas, and other aromatic treats.

Bosphorus Cruise

Sail between Europe and Asia with a cruise on the Bosphorus. Choose a short ferry ride or a longer sunset cruise for amazing views of the city’s palaces, mosques, and mansions. It’s a nice break from city traffic too!

Galata Tower

Head to this medieval Genoese tower in the Beyoğlu district for panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline. If you’re into photography we recommend visiting at golden hour. You can also ascend the tower at night (until 10pm) to view the city lights. 

Basilica Cistern

Stepping into this underground ancient water reservoir with its forest of columns, dim lighting, and Medusa head statues felt like stepping back in time.

We thought this 6th-century attraction was one of the most unique we visited in Istanbul. 

Dolmabahçe Palace

This 19th-century European-style palace is packed with crystal chandeliers, grand staircases, and gold leaf. Book your entry ticket in advance to avoid queues and pick up an audio guide to enhance your visit. Note that the palace is closed on Mondays. 

Süleymaniye Mosque

Often less crowded than the Blue Mosque, this hilltop mosque close to the Grand Bazaar offers incredible views over the Golden Horn. The mosque closes during prayer times so check timings in advance. 

🏨 Best Places to Stay in Istanbul

Istanbul is a sprawling city and travelling to sites you want to visit will use up valuable time. Where you stay can make a big difference to your trip. We recommend choosing a location based on your travel style.

Sultanahmet (Historic Centre)

The old centre is perfect for first-time visitors who want to be close to Istanbul’s top sights.

Where to stay:
5 stars | Four Seasons Sultanahmet | Historic charm, courtyard garden, rooftop terrace
4 stars | Hotel Empress Zoe | Boutique-style, leafy courtyards, great location
3 stars | Sirkeci Mansion | Friendly service, traditional design, walking distance to sights

Beyoğlu / Galata

Ideal for visitors who want to experience Istanbul’s nightlife and restaurants but feel like a local. 

Where to stay:
5 stars | Pera Palace Hotel | Historic luxury, literary history, views of the Golden Horn
4 stars | Georges Hotel Galata | Stylish rooms, rooftop bar, close to Galata Tower
3 stars | Galatower Hotel | Affordable, modern, central location

Karaköy

A trendy, artsy neighbourhood close to ferries and the Galata Bridge.

Where to stay:
4 stars | 10 Karaköy | Chic and contemporary, great location
3 stars | Center Port Hotel | Excellent value, highly rated, walkable to key attractions

Kadıköy (Asian Side)

Best for travellers who want a more local experience, with cool cafés, markets, and ferry connections.

Where to stay:
4 stars | DoubleTree by Hilton Moda | Rooftop pool, Bosphorus views
3 stars | Loka Suites | Quirky decor, great location in central Kadıköy

Wherever you choose to stay, we recommend staying close to a metro station or tram stop to minimise walking. 

🍽️ What to Eat in Istanbul

Eating is half the adventure in Istanbul! We found the food to be fresh, tasty and filling. Here are a few of our favourite must-try dishes and street snacks:

Top Turkish Dishes

• Meze – Small appetisers like hummus, dolma, and ezme
  
• Köfte – Grilled meatballs, often served with rice or bread
  
• Iskender Kebab – Sliced lamb over pita bread with tomato sauce and yoghurt or sheep milk butter
  
• Menemen – Scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers, often served for breakfast
  
• Balık Ekmek – Grilled fish sandwich stuffed with salad
  
• Gözleme – Savoury flatbread filled with savoury fillings such as cheese, spinach, or potatoes
  
• Lahmacun – Thin, crispy “Turkish pizza” with minced meat, tomato and herbs
  
• Baklava – Layers of filo pastry, pistachios, and sweet syrup
  
• Simit – Sesame-covered bread ring (perfect with tea)
  

2 Best Food Tours in Istanbul

• Taste of Two Continents Tour – Sample food on both the European and Asian sides in one day
  
• Kadıköy Street Food Tour – Explore Istanbul’s foodie hub with a knowledgeable local guide
  

👗 What to Wear in Istanbul

Istanbul is a modern, cosmopolitan city but it’s still good to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques.

• Comfortable, supportive shoes are essential for uneven streets, cobbles, and lots of walking.
  
• Layers are ideal as Istanbul’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring or autumn.
  
• A scarf is essential for women entering mosques. Some mosques provide them for free or sell them but it’s good to have your own.
  
• Avoid shorts, short skirts and sleeveless tops when visiting religious sites.

• Avoid clothing with potentially offensive slogans or graphics.
  
• Dress smart casual if you want to blend in with locals, especially in the evenings.
  

🌅 Best Day Tours from Istanbul

If you have extra time in your Istanbul itinerary, a day trip outside the city offers a deeper experience of Turkish life and history. We highly recommend allocating at least one day to enjoy a different slice of Turkey. 

Princes’ Islands

Just a ferry ride away, these nine car-free islands in the Sea of Marmara are perfect for a peaceful day of walking, cycling, and admiring Ottoman mansions. It’s a great location to escape the noise and bustle of Istanbul. 

Bursa

The former Ottoman capital is surrounded by mountains and is known for its historic mosques, thermal baths, and delicious Iskender kebab. You can join a tour to Bursa or take the bus (2 hours) or the ferry (2-3 hours) from Istanbul. 

Gallipoli

A moving and must-do experience for those interested in WWI history. Take a long full-day tour from Istanbul to Gallipoli to visit all the key ANZAC sites and memorials.

Edirne

Located near the Greek and Bulgarian borders, this charming town features impressive Ottoman architecture and a slower pace of life. Note that it’s a long day trip with a drive time of around 3 hours each way. 

From its awe-inspiring mosques and bustling markets to scenic ferry rides and unforgettable meals, Istanbul is a city that captures the imagination. We loved it and cannot wait to return to spend longer in this fascinating city.