Condé Nast TravelerAug 10
The Best Things to Do in Istanbul, Türkiye's Charismatic Capital
From tiled palaces to centuries-old markets, art galleries and colorful neighborhoods, here's a must-visit guide to Türkiye's most charismatic city.
Former administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire.
25 things in this story
- Hagia SophiaPlace of worshipMajestic structure with Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman calligraphy.
- Smelt & CoRestaurantSeafood and vegetarian restaurant beloved by locals and travelers.
- BalatNeighborhoodFormer Jewish quarter with pastel-painted houses and antique shops.
- Moda PierSightCultural space in a converted early 20th-century building.
- Galata TowerSightInstantly recognizable landmark with panoramic city views.
- Grand BazaarMarketOne of the world's oldest and largest indoor markets.
- BebekNeighborhoodAffluent neighborhood on the Bosphorus with beautiful buildings.
- ÇukurcumaNeighborhoodKnown as the antiques district with charming houses and shops.
- CihangirNeighborhoodBohemian area with cool cafes, street art, and ancient hammams.
- Hagia Sophia and museumMuseumMuseum behind the main building opened in 2023.
- Topkapi PalaceMuseumFormer administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire.
- Basilica CisternAttractionAncient reservoir built in the sixth century.
- Bosphorus river cruisePlaceBest enjoyed from the deck to see riverside landmarks.
- Zeyrek Çinili HammamPlace16th-century masterpiece hammam with restored facilities.
- Ortakoy MosquePlace of worshipBeautiful 18th-century Neo-Baroque temple on the waterfront.
- KadikoyNeighborhoodAsian side neighborhood with untouched markets and local eateries.
- Olimpiyat KokoreçFast foodHole-in-the-wall spot specializing in grilled fish sandwiches.
- Ciya SofrasıRestaurantServes Anatolian classics.
- Halil LahmacunFast foodSpecializes in thin, crispy flatbread with spiced minced meat.
- MangerieRestaurantCity's elite meet for lunch with views across the Strait.
- SusamGalleryOffers the best pomegranate juice in town.
- Aga HamamiPlaceOne of Istanbul's oldest hammams, dating back to 1454.
- Tarihi Cihangir Simit FiriniBakeryUnmatched baked goods, perfect for people-watching.
- Şerefiye CisternMuseum
- Binbirdirek CisternMuseum