Istanbul Travel Guide: The Best Things to Do, See & Eat

Istanbul, straddling Europe and Asia, is a city of contrasts. Explore the majestic Hagia Sophia, the bustling Grand Bazaar, and the serene Bosphorus. Enjoy its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine.

With 349+ hand-picked places to explore, Istanbul rewards travellers who look beyond the obvious. Here's our complete guide to the best of the city — organised by what you're in the mood for.

Must-See Attractions & Landmarks in Istanbul

The icons and landmarks no first visit is complete without.

• Süleymaniye Mosque (rated 4.9★)
• Beylerbeyi Palace (rated 4.7★)
• Camlica Hill (rated 4.7★)
• Dolmabahçe Clock Tower (rated 4.7★)

See all 19 attractions & landmarks in Istanbul →

Museums & Culture in Istanbul

Galleries, museums and cultural landmarks for a deeper look at the city.

• Hagia Sophia (rated 4.8★)
• Mihrimah Sultan Mosque (rated 4.8★)
• Rahmi M. Koç Museum (rated 4.8★)
• Süreyya Opera House (rated 4.8★)

See all 26 museums & galleries in Istanbul →

Best Things to Do in Istanbul

Activities and experiences to fill your days.

• Bosphorus Cross Continental Swim (rated 5.0★)
• Istanbul Sailing Club (rated 5.0★)
• Culinary Arts Center Istanbul (rated 4.9★)
• Istanbul Laser Tag (rated 4.7★)

See all 23 things to do in Istanbul →

Where to Eat in Istanbul

From local classics to standout modern kitchens.

• Go Mongo (rated 4.9★)
• Zencefil (rated 4.9★)
• Balık Ekmek Eminönü (rated 4.8★)
• Simitçi Galata (rated 4.8★)

See all 37 places to eat in Istanbul →

Istanbul After Dark: Bars & Nightlife

Where to go once the sun sets.

• Pivnaya (rated 4.9★)
• The Bar With No Name (rated 4.9★)
• Nayah Terrace (rated 4.8★)
• Rooftop Galata 1864 (rated 4.8★)

See all 52 bars & nightlife in Istanbul →

Shopping in Istanbul

Markets, boutiques and everything in between.

• Jennifer's Hamam (rated 4.8★)
• Sierra Vintage (rated 4.8★)
• Atölye Mariposa (rated 4.7★)
• Tuncer Gift Shop (rated 4.7★)

See all 31 shops & markets in Istanbul →

Parks & Green Spaces in Istanbul

Room to breathe when you need a break from the streets.

• Ağaçlı Forest (rated 4.9★)
• Fenerbahçe Park (rated 4.7★)
• Gülhane Park (rated 4.7★)
• Yıldız Park (rated 4.7★)

See all 29 parks & green spaces in Istanbul →

Plan Your Trip to Istanbul

This is just the start — browse our full, always-growing guide to Istanbul, with 349 places across 12 categories, and start building your perfect itinerary.

Explore the complete Istanbul guide →