Places to Visit in Istanbul

With History dating back to Ancient Greeks and varied landscape, Istanbul is home to delightful cuisine, a rich culture, and sights that will take your breath away.

Istanbul_tv_destination_img_2
Istanbul_tv_destination_img_2
Istanbul_tv_destination_img_3
Istanbul_tv_destination_img_4
Istanbul_tv_destination_img_5
Istanbul_tv_destination_img_6

Things To See & Do

Dolmabahce Palace

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

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

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

Aya Sofya

Aya Sofya

Architectural Icon of Istanbul
Constructed in 537 and now a museum, Aya Sofya has served as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral, Roman Catholic cathedral, and an Ottoman Mosque and now functions as a museum.

2 - Hour

Suggested Time

Suleymaniye Mosque

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Uskudar

Uskudar

Asia's Gateway to Istanbul
�sk�dar, located on the Asian side of Istanbul, is known for its historic mosques and traditional marketplace. It offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and the Istanbul skyline.

3-4 hours

Suggested Time

Princes Islands

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

Istanbul International Music FestivalJune/July

Istanbul Opera FestivalJuly

Id-ul-fitrAs Per Islamic Calender

Book Your Trip to Istanbul

From

Travel Options to reach Istanbul

Our Recommendations

Flight to Istanbul Airport

10h 15m . One way

Booking Options Starting From

₹19,779

BOOK NOW

Flight to Tbilisi Airport, then Flight to Istanbul Airport

11h 25m . One way

Booking Options Starting From

₹30,345

BOOK NOW

Stay in Istanbul

Recommended Options

VIEW ALL

3 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹11,284

EXPLORE
Vision Deluxe Hotel

Vision Deluxe Hotel

Sultanahmet

₹6,607

Onwards

My Dream Istanbul Hotel

My Dream Istanbul Hotel

Sultanahmet

₹12,200

Onwards

Hammamhane

Hammamhane

Taksim

₹15,045

Onwards

4 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹16,595

EXPLORE
DeCamondo Galata, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

DeCamondo Galata, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Galata

₹18,170

Onwards

Deluxe Golden Horn Sultanahmet Hotel

Deluxe Golden Horn Sultanahmet Hotel

Sultanahmet

₹15,498

Onwards

Royan Suites

Royan Suites

Sultanahmet

₹16,118

Onwards

5 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹19,244

EXPLORE
Tomtom Suites - Special Class

Tomtom Suites - Special Class

Taksim

₹19,985

Onwards

Wyndham Grand Istanbul Levent

Wyndham Grand Istanbul Levent

Sisli

₹17,040

Onwards

JW Marriott Hotel Istanbul Marmara Sea

JW Marriott Hotel Istanbul Marmara Sea

European Side

₹20,708

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.


Tourist Places in Istanbul

Kariye Museum, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Aya Sofya, Dolmabahce Palace

Country

Turkey

Best Time to Visit in Istanbul

April to September

Things to Do in Istanbul

Suleymaniye Mosque, Blue Mosque, Take Relaxing Bath at Cemberlitas Hamami, Enjoy Ferry Ride Across Bosporus, Take Relaxing Stroll in Gulhane Park

Places to visit in Istanbul with Family

Witness Whirling Dervishes at Galata Mevlevihanesi, Kumkapi, Nisantasi, Taksim Square, Ortakoy

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.