Things to Do in Istanbul: A Guide from Sultanahmet to the Bosphorus

Istanbul is the only major city in the world that spans two continents, and few places pack so much history, food and everyday energy into a single trip. As a team working between Türkiye and the Netherlands, we spend a lot of time in Istanbul for fairs, client meetings and production. Here is our guide to the places worth seeing.

1. The Historic Peninsula: Sultanahmet

The historic areas of Istanbul are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Sultanahmet is where most visits begin. Hagia Sophia, built in the 6th century, has been a church, a mosque, a museum and again a mosque. Across the square stands the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known as the Blue Mosque for its İznik tiles. Underground, the Basilica Cistern with its columns and Medusa heads is one of the city’s most atmospheric sights.

2. Topkapı Palace

For nearly four centuries, Topkapı Palace was the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Its courtyards, the Harem, the treasury and its views over the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn make it worth half a day on its own.

3. The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, with thousands of shops selling carpets, ceramics, jewellery and textiles. Near the Galata Bridge, the Spice Bazaar offers spices, Turkish delight, dried fruit and tea. Bargaining is part of the experience.

4. Galata and Karaköy

The medieval Galata Tower offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. The streets around it and in Karaköy are full of design shops, galleries and cafés. Istanbul Modern, the city’s leading contemporary art museum, sits on the Karaköy waterfront in a building designed by Renzo Piano.

5. A Bosphorus cruise

The Bosphorus, which separates Europe and Asia, is best seen from the water. Public ferries and tour boats pass waterside mansions (yalı), Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumeli Fortress and the Bosphorus bridges. Simply crossing between continents by public ferry is one of the city’s best value experiences.

6. The Asian side: Kadıköy and Moda

Kadıköy’s market streets are a food lover’s paradise, with fish stalls, delicatessens, meyhanes and coffee shops. A walk along the Moda coast at sunset shows a more local, relaxed side of Istanbul. Üsküdar, with its mosques and views of the Maiden’s Tower, is a short ride away.

7. Balat and Fener

On the Golden Horn, the colourful houses and steep streets of Balat and Fener reflect centuries of Greek, Jewish and Armenian heritage. Churches, synagogues, antique shops and small cafés make it one of the most photogenic parts of the city.

8. The Princes’ Islands

A ferry ride from the city brings you to the Princes’ Islands in the Sea of Marmara. On Büyükada, the largest island, there are no private cars; visitors explore by bicycle, electric vehicle or on foot among wooden mansions and pine forests.

9. Turkish cuisine

Istanbul is a destination in itself for food: a simit on the ferry, a Turkish breakfast spread, balık ekmek by the water, kebabs, mezes and baklava. Ending the day with Turkish tea or coffee is a ritual.

Practical tips

• Getting around: The metro, trams, Marmaray and ferries are all used with the Istanbulkart. Traffic can be heavy, so rail and ferries are often faster.
• Mosques: Visitors should dress modestly; women cover their hair. Visits are paused during prayer times.
• Time: Allow at least three or four days to see both the historic peninsula and the Bosphorus.

Doing business in Istanbul?

Istanbul hosts many of Türkiye’s major fairs, from SAHA to IDEF. Edda Creative supports brands with trade fair communication, content production and market entry between Türkiye and Europe. Get in touch if you are planning your next visit.