Istanbul, one of the most historic and sacred cities in the world. This city is a city that has hosted many civilizations, became the capital, and opened and ended an era. It is attracting attention because it has the largest population in Turkey and is one of the most crowded cities in the world. With its historical and natural beauties, there is a particular beauty of living and visiting here. There is a list of places to visit in Istanbul and information on many of the major attractions in the city.
Things to Do in Istanbul
With this list that can answer the question of Istanbul for those planning a trip to Istanbul, there are the most beautiful places in Istanbul including historical places, palaces, mosques, museums, parks and tourist places related to places of interest in Istanbul. You can click on the detailed pages for the towns and districts in the list and receive detailed information.
Places to Visit in Istanbul
Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet Square, which is on our list of must-see places in Istanbul, contains many historical buildings. In this square, which is one of the most popular tourist spots in the city, there are many historical sights such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Serpent Column, and the Obelisk to visit. Details are in our Sultanahmet Square article.
The Hagia Sophia Mosque
Hagia Sophia Mosque has almost become the symbol of Istanbul. It has managed to survive until today with its story dating back to ancient times. It is in the first place in the list of touristic places and mosques to visit in Istanbul. Details are in our The Hagia Sophia Mosque article.
Sultan Ahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque)
The Blue Mosque, which is the symbol of the city, is one of the most important places to see with its unique architecture and history. Located in Sultanahmet Square, the mosque is opposite the Hagia Sophia Mosque. Details are in our Sultan Ahmet Mosque article.
Eminonu
Eminönü is one of the most historic districts of Istanbul. It contains many historical artifacts from Istanbul. Many historical places on our travel list are in Eminönü.
Istiklal Street
Istiklal Street is located in Taksim and is one of the sights of Istanbul. It is located in the Beyoğlu district. Istiklal Street is one of the tourist spots in the city. For shopping in Istanbul, you can go to this street or the Nişantaşı district.
You can try Turkish delicacies in the restaurants on Istiklal Street. Here you can shop in the stores of world-famous brands. Details are in our Istiklal Street article.
Balat
Balat, one of the most cinematographic and deeply rooted districts of the city of Istanbul, is literally a natural film plateau. Located between the districts of Ayvansaray and Fener, the historical Balat with its cosmopolitan structure attracts attention. The historical process shows that Armenians, Jews or Jews lived together in the region. This cultural diversity is also reflected directly in the venues. Details are in our Things to Do in Balat article.
Bosphorus
The Bosphorus, the symbol of the city, separates two continents and offers unique beauties and a wonderful view. Anyone coming to the city should see this unique beauty and even take a Bosphorus tour. If you join the Bosphorus tour, you can discover many historical and natural beauties on this waterway that separates the two continents. The city is beautiful any time of the day, but add it to your list as a morning or evening spot on Bosphorus cruises. Details are in our Bosphorus article.
Maiden Tower
The beauty of the Maiden Tower, which has inspired many artists, is almost legendary. Called the Pearl of the Bosphorus, this special and fascinating place with its 2500 year history attracts attention. At certain times it was also used as a watchtower. The last restoration related to the tower was carried out in 2000.
Ciragan Palace
Not far from Beşiktaş is this very special palace, which has housed the Ottoman sultans many times throughout history. The palace was also known as Kazancıoğlu Gardens in the past. It is badly damaged by the fire in the roof area. The architect Sarkis Balyan made important contributions during the repair process. Today this place is preferred for very important organizations, engagements, or official invitations. Definitely add this magnificent palace of Istanbul to your must-see list.
Dolmabahce Palace
The area where the Dolmabahçe Palace is located, depicted as one of the most unique places in Istanbul, was a bay that was part of the Bosphorus in the past. At that time, the Ottoman admirals anchored their ships in the area. In later times this place was used as Hasbahce. For a long time, the region was known as the Beşiktaş Beach Palace. When Abdülmecit decided to demolish this place, the current palace structure was built in 1843. The Dolmabahçe Palace covers a total area of 15,000 square meters. Details are in our Dolmabahce Palace article.
Topkapi Palace
It is known that the country was ruled in Topkapı Palace for 400 years. This special place was built during the reign of Mehmet the Conqueror. On the other hand, it was opened as a museum during the reign of Abdulmecit. The palace in Fatih covers an area of 80 thousand square meters. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. It includes the Ottoman harem and many other areas. Details are in our Topkapi Palace article.
Yildiz Palace
Yıldız Palace is the place where the country was ruled during the last years of the Ottoman Empire. It has seen many historical events. This palace, famous for its architecture and history, is a must see.
Beylerbeyi Palace
The Beylerbeyi Palace from 1865 is located directly below the Bosphorus Bridge. Visitors to the castle experience a magnificent view. The palace was used at times as “Hasbahçesi”, that is, as the garden of the Ottoman sultans. The architect of the palace is Serkis Baylan. The palace can be visited on other days of the week except Monday and Thursday.
Galata Tower
The Galata Tower, one of the oldest known towers in history, was built by Anastasius in 507. At that time, this place was mainly used as a lighthouse. The tower came under the control of the Genoese in the 14th century. In later times it is considered a fire tower. Today it is used as a tourist facility. It is one of the most beautiful historical places to enjoy the view of Istanbul. Istanbul should definitely be on your travel list.
Malta Mansion
For those who ask where to go in Istanbul, have you seen the mansions in Istanbul? It was built by Sultan Abdulaziz with stones brought from Malta. The Maltese mansion is commemorated with important events in history. You can have a great breakfast or a nice dinner at the mansion.
Cemberlitas Column
Our next stop on our list of places to visit in Istanbul is a historical place. The column erected in 330 AD in honor of Emperor Constantine I on Çemberlitaş, known as one of the seven hills of Istanbul, is the Çemberlitaş column. You should definitely see this historical building, which is within walking distance of Sultanahmet Square. Be sure to stop by the tomb of Abdülhamit Han, one of the last Ottoman sultans, located right next to it. During the reign of Abdulhamid II, Hz. He had works done to prevent the noise of the railway passing by the tomb of the Prophet Muhammad. Now the same has been done for the rails that coincide with the tomb.
Camlica Hill
Camlica Hill is one of the best places to watch the view of the city. You can have your breakfast or dinner at the venues here. You can get a better view of the city by climbing the Camlica Tower, which is located here. Make sure to stop by this tower. If you’ve been to Camlica, another place you should see is the Camlica Mosque. This mosque has the distinction of being the largest mosque built by Turkey after the Ottoman Empire. You can visit this magnificent building.
Khedive Pavilion
We continue our list of places to visit in Istanbul with the pavilions in Istanbul. During your tours of the Khedive Pavilion, you will see the wonderful view of the place and the traces it has carried from history to the present. You can see the historical elevator here. You can also have a great meal accompanied by the beautiful view of the mansion. Eating in the pavilions and mansions in Istanbul is a wonderful experience. If you want to have a nice breakfast in Istanbul and sip a cup of coffee against the unique view, the Hidiv Pavilion is a good option.
Kucuksu Pavilion
It was used as the sultan’s private garden during the Ottoman period. Sultan IV. This area, which was called silver cypress during the Murat period, was used for different purposes during the period. You can have breakfast or dinner in this historical mansion. You can visit the historical building and take a walk in its garden.
Linden Pavilion (Ihlamur Kasrı)
Located between Beşiktaş and Nişantaşı, the Ihlamur Pavilion was built during the reign of Abdülmecit. This place normally belongs to someone named Hacı Hüseyin Ağa. This place was built after Abdülmecit’s accession to the promenade section of the Ihlamur Valley. In the same period, the construction of the Merasim Mansion and the Maiyet Mansion began. Today, the venue welcomes its visitors as a museum-palace. You can have a great breakfast here and visit the historical building.
Aynalikavak Pavilion
The building, which decorated the shores of the Golden Horn for three hundred years and is known as Aynalıkavak Pavilion today, is the only surviving example among the structures known as Aynalıkavak palace or shipyard palace in the Ottoman period.
Rumeli Fortress
Rumeli Fortress, which is among the places to visit on the European side of Istanbul, was built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet before the conquest of Istanbul in order to prevent attacks from the northern part of the Bosphorus.
Anatolian Fortress
Anadolu Hisarı, which is among the places to visit in Istanbul located in the Anatolian side section, is a work built by Yıldırım Beyazıt in 1395. This fortress, which was of great importance especially for the Genoese in terms of the passage of the Bosphorus, had the same importance for the Ottomans.
Anadolu Kavagi
The most distinctive feature of Anadolu Kavağı is that besides its historical mission, it is a touristic fishing town. You can have a nice breakfast in Anadolu Kavagi on the Asian side.
Kanlica
Kanlıca, an important and old place of Beykoz district, is located between Anadolu Hisarı and Cubuklu. Kanlıca is also very close to Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge. As it is known, the region is famous for its yogurt. This yogurt is usually eaten with powdered sugar. Mihrabad Grove and mansions are another important element of the district.
Ortakoy Beach
Ortaköy Beach, which is shown among the most rooted districts of the city, hosts different cultures. In this respect, you can witness that Armenian, Greek or Jewish communities live in the same region. Do not forget to stop by the famous kumpir restaurants on the beach, which creates a special ambiance with its colorful lights. Do not forget to include Ortaköy Beach, which is at the seafront, in your travel list.
Bagdat Street
Bagdat Street stands out as one of the most popular streets in Istanbul. Many special events or celebrations in the city take place in this area. This long and busy street, which also includes many shopping centers, is seen as a central place in the Anatolian side of the city of Istanbul in a sense.
Cemberlitas Turkish Bath
Çemberlitaş Bath is one of the famous baths located next to Çemberlitaş, very close to the Grand Bazaar. It is a great option for those who want to see the historical Turkish bath.
Cagaloglu Turkish Bath
Cağaloğlu Hamam, which is among the baths to visit in Istanbul, is among the largest double baths in Istanbul. It has a different structure from the classical Ottoman architecture.
Hagia Sophia Hurrem Sultan Bath
The architect of this bath, which was built between 1556 and 1557 for Hürrem Sultan, the wife of Suleiman the Magnificent, is Mimar Sinan. The Hamam is located next to the Hagia Sophia Mosque. Among the baths, we can say that this is the bath that attracts the most attention from tourists.
Grand Bazaar
One of the most visited places by tourists coming to Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar is also known as the oldest bazaar in the world. This unique bazaar, which you can get lost in with its size, is located in Fatih district. There are many inns, covered bazaars and shops here. The bazaar is spread over an area of 45 thousand square meters in total. More than 250 thousand people visit the bazaar in one day.
The Egyptian Bazaar
The Egyptian Bag, which is shown among the most famous bazaars of Istanbul along with the Grand Bazaar, is a very cinematographic place that has been the subject of many movies. Located in Eminönü, the bazaar is also very close to the New Mosque. Today, many spice shops, jewelers, jewelers and souvenir shops serve in the bazaar. The last restoration in the bazaar took place in 1943.
Flower Passage
Cicek Passage, which is among the beautiful places in Istanbul. In 1908, Grand Vizier Küçük Said Pasha took the ownership of Hristaki Passage, and it is said that many flower shops were opened during the armistice years.
St. Anthony’s Church
Located within the borders of Istanbul, St. Antuan Church is located on Istiklal Street. The most important feature of this special place is that it is the largest Catholic church in the city. The church has managed to survive from the 13th century to the present day. The church was burned twice in total in the historical process. The church attracts the attention of people of different religions.
Fener Greek Patriarchate
Located in the famous Fener district of Istanbul, the Fener Greek Patriarchate is attached to the Hagia Yorgi Church. For this reason, in some sources, his name may be mentioned in this way. The church succeeds in ascending to the position of archbishop in 307. This development occurs when the new capital of Rome is Istanbul. Hz. A column on which Jesus was whipped in Jerusalem and coffins of some saints are presented to the visitors in the Patriarchate. Although there was a big fire inside the church in 1941, necessary repairs were made later.
Adile Sultan Palace
The palace was built by Sarkis Balyan in 1858. It was built by Sarkis Balvan as a gift to Adile Sultan, the sister of Sultan Abdülmecit.
Arasta Market
Another name of the bazaar is Sipahiler Bazaar. It was also called by this name because it was an arasta where products for sipahis were sold at the time.
Pierre Loti Hill
Pierre Loti Hill, located in Eyüp district, which has an important place among the districts to visit in Istanbul, is another must-see spot. Pierre Loti Hill is the choice of many people who want to enjoy the view of Istanbul and the Golden Horn in Istanbul.
Beyazit Tower
The 85-meter tower is the tallest structure in Suriçi as of today. If you want to climb the tower, after a very difficult journey consisting of 256 stairs, a panoramic photo that covers almost all of Istanbul is encountered.
Yoros Castle
Yoros Castle, also known as the Genoese Castle, is located on the ridge of Anadolu Kavağı. During the periods when the empire lost power, the castle passed into the hands of the Genoese. The castle is normally accepted as a Byzantine castle. What is written in the Greek inscription confirms this information.
Yedikule Dungeons
The building, which was also used as a prison for a while before the Conquest of Istanbul, was used as a prison, mint, art house, zoo from time to time during the Ottoman Empire Period, and even the Ottoman Treasury was kept here for a while.
Islands
Consisting of 9 large and small islands and two rocks, the famous Islands are among the places that should not be overlooked in Istanbul. In the region, which includes very popular islands such as Büyükada, Heybeliada and Kınalıada, each island has its own unique story. The Islands, where people flock to in the summer months, promise many activities and events.
Basilica Cistern
The cistern, which was used as a water reservoir by the Byzantine Empire 1500 years ago to meet the water needs of the city, was also used as a palace for a while due to its splendor.
Hagia Irene Museum
Hagia Irene Museum, a historical museum, is located in the first courtyard of Topkapi Palace in Istanbul.
Tiled Kiosk Museum
It is thought that the building, which was built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet after the conquest of Istanbul, may have been a summer palace or a mansion used by Fatih Sultan Mehmet to watch the competitions held here.
Miniaturk
You can see the miniatures of the most important places in Turkey with Miniatürk, where the most popular architectural works and values of Turkey are designed in miniature scales and presented to the attention of the visitors.
Galata Mevlevi Lodge Museum
Galata Mevlevihanesi Museum, known as the Divan Literature Museum until recently, took its present form as a result of long-term studies. You can watch the Mevlevi ceremonies here.
Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum
The museum, which started to serve in the Süleymaniye Complex under the name Evkaf-ı Islamiye Museum, began to be known as the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum after the proclamation of the Republic.
Ataturk Arboretum
Atatürk Arboretum, which offers a great space for those who are interested in plant science, attracts attention with woody plants and interesting tree species. The region has a plant diversity of around 1500 in total. Belgrad Forest in Sarıyer is also very close to here. Atatürk Arboretum covers an area of 267 hectares. Local botanists show great interest here throughout the year. Atatürk Arboretum, which contains many plant species, is one of the most beautiful natural environments to be seen in Istanbul, we recommend you to visit this park.
Emirgan Grove
Among the groves to visit in Istanbul, Emirgan Woods is also on our list. You can enjoy breakfast or a meal in the mansions in it. Emirgan Woods in Sarıyer is seen as the lung of Istanbul. Covering an area of 300 acres, the region has hosted many statesmen or sultans in its historical adventure. Although Emirgan Grove was given as a gift to the Prince of Iran by Murat the 4th, it changed hands many times over time. After 1940, Emirgan Grove was expropriated.
We have listed the article Things to Do in Istanbul with 50 popular places. You can share with us your experiences in Istanbul and your travel suggestions by commenting on our article.
