Things To See & Do
Dolmabahce Palace
Home of the Last Emperor of Turkey
Known for its grandiose architecture the palace was constructed in the 19th century by Sultan Abdül Mecit and replaced the Topkap? Palace as the centre of Ottoman Empire upon its completion.
2-3 Hours.
Suggested Time
Topkapi Palace
Former Royal Abode
Constructed between 1466 and 1478 by Mehmet II, the palace acted as the centre of Ottoman Empire until the Dolmabahce Palace was constructed by the waterside.
1-2 Hours
Suggested Time
Blue Mosque
Breath-taking Architecture
A functioning mosque, its six towers and mesmerizing architecture has made it an extremely popular among tourists visiting Istanbul.
1-2 Hours.
Suggested Time
Suleymaniye Mosque
Istanbul’s Top Tourist Attraction
One of the grandest mosque in Istanbul, the Süleymaniye was constructed in the 16th century by Süleyman I and is one of the most popular places visited in Istanbul.
1-2 Hours.
Suggested Time
Basilica Cistern
An Ancient Water Tank
Famous for its awe-inspiring architecture, this is a subterranean water reservoir was built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 532 AD and is the largest of the surviving Byzantine underground water tank.
1-2 Hours.
Suggested Time
Kariye Museum
Home of Byzantine Era Artefacts
Also known as Chora Church, the Kariye Museum is a Byzantine Greek. It is home to a number of artefacts and provides a captivating glimpse of Byzantine Era art.
2-3 Hours
Suggested Time
Fatih Mosque
The Mosque of Conqueror
Fatih Mosque, positioned in the district of Fatih, is one of the largest examples of Turkish-Islamic architecture in Istanbul and carries historical importance as it was built by Mehmet the Conqueror.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Hagia Sophia
The Architectural Marvel
Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, is one of the most significant architectural structures in the world. Once a cathedral, later a mosque, and now a museum, it showcases the blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
2-3 hours
Suggested Time
Beylerbeyi Palace
Ottoman Elegance
Beylerbeyi Palace, located on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus, was a summer residence of the Ottoman sultans. It showcases opulent interiors and well-preserved architecture.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Galata Mevlevi House
The Whirling Dervishes' Home
Galata Mevlevi House, located near the Galata Tower, is a museum dedicated to the Mevlevi Order of Sufis, known for their whirling dances. It offers an intriguing insight into their lifestyle and practices.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Mall of Istanbul
The Ultimate Shopping Experience
The Mall of Istanbul, located in Basaksehir, is the largest shopping, entertainment and residential complex in Turkey. It's home to hundreds of stores, restaurants, and a giant theme park.
3-5 hours
Suggested Time
Istiklal Avenue
Istanbul's Vibrant Heartbeat
Istiklal Avenue is a bustling street in the Beyoglu district of Istanbul. Known for its historic tram, it's lined with numerous shops, caf�s, restaurants, galleries, and boutiques.
2-4 hours
Suggested Time
Hippodrome
The Byzantine Legacy
The Hippodrome, located in Sultanahmet district, was the social and sporting centre of Byzantine Constantinople. Today, it's an open-air museum showcasing ancient obelisks and columns.
1 hour
Suggested Time
Princes Islands
A Tranquil Escape
Princes' Islands, a group of nine islands off the coast of Istanbul, offers a peaceful retreat from the city hustle. They are famous for their car-free streets and Victorian-style houses.
Full Day
Suggested Time
Best Time To Visit Istanbul
Ideal year round destination
APR-SEP
Peak Season
FEB-MAR
Moderate Season
OCT-JAN
Off-season
- What To Expect:Dry and sunny weather with pleasant temperatures.
- Things You'll Love:Exploring the sites and shopping from the colourful markets.
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
Book Your Trip to Istanbul
From
Travel Options to reach Istanbul
Our Recommendations
Flight to Istanbul Airport
8h 25m . One way
Booking Options Starting From
₹11,120
Flight to Baku Airport, then Flight to Istanbul Airport
10h 45m . One way
Booking Options Starting From
₹21,903
Stay in Istanbul
Recommended Options
3 STAR HOTELS
Recommended For You
Average Price
₹9,153
Rast Hotel Sultanahmet
Sultanahmet
₹11,126
Onwards
Hammamhane
Taksim
₹8,790
Onwards
My Dream Istanbul Hotel
Sultanahmet
₹7,543
Onwards
4 STAR HOTELS
Recommended For You
Average Price
₹12,201
The Artisan Istanbul MGallery
Taksim
₹9,705
Onwards
Altunizade Suites Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton
Asian Side
₹14,907
Onwards
DeCamondo Galata, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Galata
₹11,993
Onwards
5 STAR HOTELS
Recommended For You
Average Price
₹36,219
Swissotel the Bosphorus Istanbul
Besiktas
₹24,859
Onwards
Tomtom Suites - Special Class
Taksim
₹16,894
Onwards
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus
Besiktas - on the Bosphorous
₹66,904
Onwards
Places to Visit in Istanbul for Your Next Vacation
The gateway of Turkey, Istanbulis a traveller's paradise. From architectural hallmarks to splendid gardens and iconic historical structures - there are a host of wonderful places to visit in Istanbul. You can avail of buses, cabs, metro and other transportation options to explore the best tourist places in Istanbul.
Exploring the Iconic Landmarks
A country that boasts of rich cultural heritage, here are some of the most loved places to visit in Istanbul:
- Topkapi Palace:A lovely museum complex with several halls and chambers that contain a collection of the rarest items in the world.
- Sultan Ahmed Mosque:Also known as the “Blue Mosque”, famous for its semi-domes decorating the interiors.
- Hagia Sophia:An architectural marvel blending designs, light and colours, once a cathedral and now a mosque.
- Basilica Cistern:The largest underground water storage facility, built in 532 AD, with awe-inspiring columns.
- Galata Tower:A nine-storeyed building offering a breathtaking view of the city along with a traditional lifestyle museum.
Group Activities and Adventures in Istanbul
When it comes to spending time with your friends and family, here are some of the best places to visit in Istanbul:
- Bosphorus Cruise:Hire a private yacht and enjoy beautiful views of the cityscape.
- Vialand:An exotic theme park filled with entertaining rides and unlimited fun.
- Grand Bazaar:Explore the charm of ancient markets with more than 4,000 stalls.
- Gulhane Park:A great spot for picnics or outings, especially during the Tulip Festival.
- Princes' Islands:A must-visit spot with four accessible islands for outdoor activities and scenic strolls.
Romantic Dining Spots in Istanbul
Apart from historical landmarks, there are a lot of other places to visit in Istanbul, especially for couples. Some of the top restaurants where you can spend quality time with your partner include:
- Mitara Cafe and Art:A cosy dining spot with homely food, perfect for a casual date.
- Durban Cafe:Indulge in local and global delights at this classic restaurant with ethnic decor.
- Hanzade Terrace Restaurant:Enjoy local meat and fish delights along with drinks and an incredible rooftop view.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to go shopping in Istanbul?
From shopping malls to traditional outdoor markets, Istanbul offers a true shopping experience. Popular markets include Grand Bazaar, Forum Istanbul, Egyptian Spice Bazaar, and Canyon Mall.
What is the most romantic part of Istanbul?
Istanbul has a host of romantic places such as Hagia Sophia, Prince's Islands, Maiden's Tower, and Galata Tower.
What's good to buy in Istanbul?
The city boasts rich handicrafts. You can buy Turkish carpets and pottery items from local shops as souvenirs.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Istanbul
What are the activities you can explore during the peak season and moderate season in Istanbul?
In the peak season months April, May, June, July, August and September you will experience dry and sunny weather with pleasant temperatures wherein around moderate season i.e. February, March and April you will enjoy low temperatures with windy weather. Whatever that suits your calendar, Istanbul awaits you for a good time.
Which are the best heritage places to explore in Istanbul?
The best heritage places in Istanbul are Dolmabahce Palace, Topkapi Palace and Blue Mosque. You will have an amazing time exploring these heritage places in Istanbul and will definitely come back home with a bag full of lovely memories.
What is the best time to visit Istanbul?
Ideally the best time to visit any place is considered when the weather conditions are delightful. For Istanbul, you can choose to go in April, May, June, July, August and September which is the peak season and February, March and April which is the moderate season. Both will serve you well to unwind from your tedious routine.