Here is a quick guide to our favorite spots in one of the world’s largest cities.
Istanbul, a city where East meets West, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and food. After having lived In Europe’s largest city for a year, we can honestly say that we know a thing or two about this gem of a city. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking to experience the vibrant energy of the city, Istanbul has something for everyone. While it is certainly a crowded and hectic city filled with many people, cars and CATS, it is a city that everyone should at least visit once in their lives. My hope is that you will love it as much as us, and that you will always continue to visit and search for even more hidden gems. It is one of those cities that would honestly take you a lifetime to truly see everything as with every new corner you explore, you can find that hidden hole in the wall restaurant or just a chill place to sip on a Turkish coffee/tea. So let’s get to the good stuff: where to visit, what to do and of course, WHAT TO (literally) SINK YOUR TEETH INTO.
Here’s our guide to some of our personal favorite tourist attractions, hidden gems, and incredible eats that will make your trip unforgettable:
Top Tourist Attractions
1. Hagia Sophia
A visit to Istanbul wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Hagia Sophia. This iconic structure, a former church-turned-mosque, showcases the city’s blend of Byzantine and Ottoman history.
2. Blue Mosque
Located just across from the Hagia Sophia, this grand mosque is famous for its stunning blue tiles and towering minarets. It’s still a functioning mosque, so be mindful of prayer times when visiting.
3. Basilica Cisterns
Delve underground to explore the hauntingly beautiful Basilica Cisterns, an ancient water reservoir supported by hundreds of columns. The eerie lighting and the sound of water trickling make it a unique experience. While the ticket is a little pricey, it is a really cool place to spend some time.
4. Galata Tower
Offering one of the best panoramic views of the city, Galata Tower is the perfect spot to soak in Istanbul’s skyline. Climb to the top and be rewarded with stunning vistas of both the European and Asian sides.
5. Rumeli Castle
If you love castles, Rumeli Fortress is a must-see. Overlooking the Bosphorus, it offers a peek into Istanbul’s military history and is a peaceful spot for a stroll along the waterfront as you are walking on the European side. Just across the water is the continent of Asia!
6. Dolmabahce Palace
For museum lovers, Dolmabahce Palace is an opulent showcase of Ottoman luxury. The palace is filled with stunning chandeliers and grand halls that leave visitors in awe. Be sure to allow yourself several hours to truly discover what lies inside!
7. Taksim Square
This bustling area is the heart of modern Istanbul. Stroll down Istiklal Street, lined with shops, cafés, and street performers, for a more urban experience.
PRO TIP 1: Don’t be afraid to walk past and ignore the many promoters who will try to entice you into the bars/clubs in the side streets.
PRO TIP 2: Don’t eat at the restaurants, much like you wouldn’t dine in Times Square (overpriced, low quality).
PRO TIP 3: Find street vendors selling roasted chested, grille corn and of course midye- mussels stuffed with a wild rice….you’re welcome.
8. Moda (Asian Side)
Looking for a quieter, less touristy side of Istanbul? Moda, on the Asian side, is a charming area with cool cafés, bars, and a laid-back atmosphere. Head here for a sunset; the views are magical, and the area feels more authentic and less crowded. We have noticed that the Asian side is more considered a hidden gem because it isn’t necessarily on the typical tourist route….but hey, that means you will most likely not so many tourists…so isn’t that a good thing?
9. Ferry to the Asian Side
Taking the ferry across the Bosphorus is an experience in itself. It’s not just transportation—it’s a scenic journey with breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline from the water. For less than a dollar, you can just ride the ferry as if you were paying for a boat tour. You can even buy some snacks or sip on a Turkish tea as you float in a city between 2 literal continents. I am not sure where else in the world you can say that you can do that….trick question- you can’t…welcome to Istanbul.
10. Bebek
Bebek is an upscale area on the waterfront known for its trendy cafés and restaurants. It’s a great spot for a leisurely breakfast or a relaxing day by the water. Be mindful though that you will for sure spend more money here than many other places in the city…but for an afternoon or brunch, it is worth it.
11. Suleymeniye Mosque
One of my favourite mosques in Türkiye for many reasons. Firstly, it is gorgeous…with the white-washed marble to the views in the courtyard where you can see the rest of the Eminönü district in addition to the European and Asian sides. The tourists will flock to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, much less than at Suleymaniye.
12. Balat
If you love colorful buildings and hipster vibes, Balat is your spot. This quirky neighborhood is filled with unique shops and restaurants and is perfect for a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Walk up the hills for a more in-depth look at the more conservative area of the city, more-filled with Arabs and other more conservative Turks. You won’t be able to find alcohol and will see all women covered in head to toe. The people are nice and it is a cool look into another lifestyle. However, I’d recommend being more mindful of what you wear as you may be faced with more looks and faces wearing shorts or women wearing more revealing clothing.
13. Duatepe Parkı
Go to the Sarıyer neighborhood of the city and search for the İBB Duatepe Parkı for stunning views of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Köprüsü Bridge. You will never find a ton of people here and it is the perfect place for sunset and allows you for a stunning view of the Asian side.
14. Prince’s Islands (Buyukada, Heybeliada, Burgaz and Kınaliada)
A set of islands southeast of Istanbul in the Sea of Marmara. The islands are mostly car-free and offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Istanbul. Each one is worth a trip in their own. The best part about the transportation to the island is that it is part of the normal ferry network. You can get to Heybeliada (first island on the route) in about an hour and once-again you are awarded with some incredible views of the glistening sea and the skyline of Istanbul. Don’t skip out on these islands as each offer a glimpse into Istanbul’s old past.
Pro Tip: Rent bikes, but be mindful of steep hills that can be quite a workout.
Final Thoughts
Istanbul is a city of contrasts. From literally spanning two continents to a clash of the old and new (a lot of people have mentioned to me that they were surprised to see skyscrapers in my pictures of Istanbul smh…it’s a modern city). There is so much to see and we have barely covered everything (a blog about desserts is coming on its own because you can’t visit Türkiye without stuffing your face with some of the best desserts in the world). Istanbul is not just a city that we have come to love, it served as a 2nd home to us and we could go on and on about what to do, eat and see but these are some of our favourites. Istanbul is one of the world’s classic cities complete with nightlife, cafes, fancy restaurants, ma and pa eats, and of course a million different viewpoints worthy of an Insta post…don’t forget the cats! Our advice to you: go in with an open mind. Don’t be like the people that assume Istanbul (as Türkiye is a predominantly Muslim country) that you can’t wear what you want or have to be sober during your time here….actually, you will find that Istanbul is like any other city where you can party the house down (Turks love to drink). It is a city that is truly worth your time. Just give it its time…don’t treat Istanbul as a layover (as Turkish Air is the world most internationally connected passenger carrier- flies to 130 out of the 195 recognised countries)…Istanbul is worth the trip in its own. We hope you hit some of our spots and certainly give us your own recommendations as we can promise you one thing: WE WILL BE BACK!
