20 Best and Fun Things To Doin Istanbul

Traveloka MY
31 Dec 2024 - 8 min read

Istanbul is a city full of amazing things to see and do, making it the perfect place for an unforgettable trip. From the stunning Hagia Sophia and the beautiful Blue Mosque to the famous Topkapi Palace, there’s so much history to explore. You can enjoy a boat ride on the Bosphorus, where two continents meet, or explore the lively Grand Bazaar and Spice Market. Did you know that Istanbul is the only city in the world that is located on two continents, Europe and Asia? It’s a place where old traditions mix with modern life. Whether you're shopping, eating, or sightseeing, there’s always something fun waiting for you!

Istanbul is a city full of adventure, where history and modern life come together in the most exciting ways! From the stunning Hagia Sophia and the grand Topkapi Palace to the lively Grand Bazaar, there’s something for every traveler. You can enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Bosphorus, with views of beautiful bridges and mosques, or sip on traditional Turkish tea in a cozy café.

Don’t miss exploring the spice markets, where colorful scents fill the air, or trying delicious local foods like kebabs and baklava. Whether you're into history, shopping, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Istanbul has everything to make your trip unforgettable!

1. Topkapi Palace Museum

Step into the history of the Ottoman Empire with a visit to the Topkapi Palace Museum. With a guide by your side, you can skip the ticket line and enjoy a 90-minute tour filled with stories about Turkey's royal past. Explore the grand halls, the treasury, the kitchens, and even the harem, all while learning about life during the time of the Sultans. Located near the Hagia Sophia, this former palace is now a museum where history comes to life. Be sure to meet your guide at the designated meeting point to start your journey.

2. VIALAND Theme Park

Get ready for a fun-filled day at VIALAND Theme Park, just a short trip from central Istanbul. This is Turkey's first modern theme park, where you can ride thrilling roller coasters, brave river rapids, and even hop on a Viking longboat. Kids will love the smaller, family-friendly rides, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The park has an Ottoman-inspired theme, adding a special Turkish touch to your adventure. After the rides, you can relax and explore the massive shopping mall nearby. It’s a perfect place to make unforgettable memories with your family.

3. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Explore its amazing history. Built almost 1,500 years ago, it started as a Christian basilica under Emperor Justinian and later became a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. Today, it stands as a symbol of both cultures, with its grand dome, gold mosaics, and unique architecture. As you walk through this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll learn about its journey from a cathedral to a museum and now a mosque. It's a place where history and beauty come together in the heart of Istanbul.

4. Madame Tussauds Istanbul

Madame Tussauds Istanbul is a fun place to meet lifelike wax figures of famous people from around the world. You can pose with film stars, music legends, and sports heroes like Maria Sharapova and Rafael Nadal. Learn about Turkish history by standing next to figures like Ataturk, Fatih Sultan Mehmet, and Mimar Sinan. Located in Taksim, this attraction is perfect for photos, laughter, and creating unforgettable memories with your favorite icons.

5. Camlica Tower

Visit the Camlica Tower and see Istanbul like never before from its highest point. Step onto the Observation Deck for a 360-degree view of the city, from the Bosphorus Bridge connecting two continents to iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Enjoy a comfortable journey with hotel transfers and take your time to explore. You can even make the visit extra special by choosing to have breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a view. It’s a great way to enjoy the beauty of Istanbul while treating yourself to some delicious Turkish food.

6. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul

Have a fun-filled day at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul, a perfect indoor spot for families. Explore MINILAND, where you can see tiny versions of Istanbul’s famous landmarks like the Galata Tower and Hagia Sophia, all made from LEGO bricks. Join the Kingdom Quest Laser Ride to zap trolls and save the princess, or enjoy an exciting 4D movie featuring your favorite LEGO characters. Kids will love building race cars to test on ramps or playing at the Duplo Farm with soft bricks and fun activities. It’s a place full of creativity and adventure for everyone!

7. Istanbul Sapphire Observation Deck

Enjoy incredible views of Istanbul from the Sapphire Observation Deck, one of the tallest buildings in Turkey. Ride high-speed elevators to the top and take in the breathtaking cityscape from 231 meters above. From this height, you can see the Princes' Islands, the Bosphorus Strait, and famous landmarks like the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. Don’t forget to snap amazing photos of the city’s bridges, streets, and sparkling waters below. It’s a view you won’t forget!

8. Istanbul City, Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Stopover on the Asian Shore

Take a relaxing 2.5-hour cruise along the Bosphorus Strait and explore both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. From a luxury yacht, you’ll see famous spots like Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, and Rumeli Fortress on the European side, as well as Beylerbeyi Palace and Maiden’s Tower on the Asian side. The tour also includes a stop at Kanlica, where you can try its famous yogurt. A multilingual guide will share interesting stories about the landmarks, making this cruise a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of Istanbul.

9. The Best of Istanbul Private Walking Tour

Join a full day walking tour to visit the best sights in Istanbul. You’ll explore famous landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Suleymaniye Mosque, each with its own unique beauty and history. See the impressive Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans, and the ancient Obelisk of Theodosius at the Hippodrome. Take a stroll through the iconic Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for souvenirs. With a private or small group tour, you’ll enjoy a more personal experience as you learn about these amazing places from your knowledgeable guide.

10. Istanbul Hagia Sophia Basilica Cistern Blue Mosque, Bosphorus Cruise

On this tour, you'll visit some of the most famous places in Istanbul. Start from Hagia Sophia, a stunning 6th-century building that was once a church. Then, explore the Basilica Cistern, a huge underground structure. Visit the Blue Mosque, known for its beautiful blue tiles, and see the Golden Horn from Pierre Loti Hill. You'll also take a Bosphorus cruise, enjoying views of the city’s landmarks like Topkapı Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, and the Maiden's Tower. Stop at the Grand Bazaar to shop for souvenirs and visit the Eyup Sultan Mosque, where you can learn about its history. Finish with a relaxing cable car ride down from Pierre Loti Hill.

11. Galata Half-day Walking Tour

On this half-day walking tour, you'll explore the heart of Galata, a lively and historic area in Istanbul. Start by walking through Istiklal Caddesi, a famous street full of shops, restaurants, and energy. Then, visit the iconic Galata Tower for amazing views of the city. Take a moment to snap photos at the beautiful Camondo Stairs, with its unique ribbon-like design. You'll also stop at the SALT Galata Art Gallery, where you can enjoy modern art exhibitions. Finally, cross the Galata Bridge and take in the stunning views of the Golden Horn before finishing the tour in Eminonu.

12. Bosphorus and Golden Horn Sunset Tour in Istanbul

On the Bosphorus and Golden Horn Sunset Tour, you'll experience the beauty of Istanbul at sunset. Starting from Kabataş, you'll enjoy stunning views of the Bosphorus, the bridge connecting Europe and Asia, and the Golden Horn. As the sun sets, the colors of the sky and buildings turn into shades of copper, blue, and red, making it a perfect time for photos. During the two-hour tour, an expert guide will share the history of famous landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Maiden's Tower, and the Bosphorus Bridge. You'll also taste some delicious Turkish snacks, fruits, and drinks while taking in the breathtaking views.

13. Istanbul Highlights Afternoon Tour

You'll explore the rich cultural and religious history of the city. Start by visiting Topkapi Palace, a former residence of Ottoman sultans, now a museum filled with treasures. Then, admire the architecture of Hagia Irene Church, known for its impressive dome and high roofs. You'll also visit the Caferağa Medresseh, an old educational building from 1559, where you'll learn more about Istanbul's history. The tour ends with a walk down Sogukcesme Street, lined with beautiful, historic houses. This tour offers a wonderful chance to discover the fascinating culture and history of Istanbul.

14. Hodjapasha Rhythm of the Dance Show

The Hodjapasha Rhythm of the Dance Show offers a lively and colorful performance of traditional Turkish dances. Held at the historic Hodjapasha Cultural Complex, a 550-year-old building that was once an Ottoman bath, the show features dances like Ottoman, Zeybek, Roman Gypsy, and Balkan, all performed with amazing costumes, music, and even belly dancing. This unique experience lets you learn about Turkish culture in an entertaining way, as the dancers come together to tell a beautiful story through their movements.

15. SEA LIFE Istanbul Aquarium

At SEA LIFE Istanbul Aquarium, you'll see thousands of marine creatures in different themed areas. You can touch colorful starfish and Horseshoe crabs in the discovery rockpools. As you walk through the aquarium, you'll meet many animals like jellyfish, clownfish, and green sea turtles. The aquarium also helps protect ocean ecosystems, and you'll learn how important these creatures are for the health of the sea. It’s a fun and educational experience for everyone!

16. Museum of Illusions Admission in Istanbul

At this Museum in Istanbul, you can have fun exploring different tricks for your eyes and mind. The museum has many rooms where you can play with perspective and vision, making you see things in unexpected ways. It’s a great place to enjoy with family or friends, with exciting exhibits like holograms and optical illusions. Whether you're young or old, there's something fun and surprising for everyone to enjoy!

17. Turkish Coffee Tour in Istanbul

On the Turkish Coffee Tour in Istanbul, you’ll walk through some of the city’s oldest coffee houses. As you explore the bazaars and hidden shops, you’ll learn about the history of coffee in Istanbul. You can also take a coffee-making course and earn a certificate to impress your friends with your new skills. During the tour, you'll have the chance to taste different types of Turkish coffee, the country's beloved national drink.

18. Istiklal Street Walking Tour in Beyoglu

The Istiklal Street Walking Tour in Beyoglu is a great way to explore Istanbul. As you walk through the lively alleyways of Istiklal Street, you'll see many famous landmarks and buildings that tell the story of the city’s past. An English-speaking guide will share interesting facts about the history of the area. Beyoglu is an essential stop on your trip to Istanbul, offering a chance to experience its unique charm and history.

19. Cagaloglu Hammam Experience in Istanbul

The Cagaloglu Hammam in Istanbul is a beautiful 18th-century bath that offers a peaceful and relaxing experience. Located in the heart of Istanbul's Old City, this historic hammam has stunning Ottoman architecture with detailed marble designs. You can enjoy a traditional kese and a soothing massage to relax your body and mind. Start by warming up in the warm room and then move to the hot room to feel your muscles unwind. After your treatment, you can relax in the cool room with a cup of Turkish tea. This hammam is a perfect place to enjoy Turkish culture, history, and relaxation.

20. Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Day Tour from Istanbul

Take a break from the busy city of Istanbul and enjoy a peaceful day in the countryside with this tour to Sapanca Lake and Masukiye. You’ll have the chance to walk around the beautiful Sapanca Lake and take in its peaceful surroundings. For lunch, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal by a cool, shaded waterfall at the Masukiye Selale Restaurant. If you visit during the winter, you can also hike up Kartepe Mountain and take an optional ski lift to enjoy the stunning views. This tour is a perfect way to relax and enjoy nature outside the city.Now that you've discovered all the amazing things to do in Istanbul, it’s time to start planning your trip! With Traveloka, you can easily book your flights, accommodations, and activities all in one place. Whether you're looking for the best hotel deals or exciting tours to join, Traveloka makes your travel planning simple and stress-free. You can count on finding great options at great prices, so you can focus more on enjoying your vacation. Start organizing your dream trip to Istanbul with Traveloka and experience a smooth, hassle-free journey from start to finish

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In This Article

• 1. Topkapi Palace Museum
• 2. VIALAND Theme Park
• 3. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
• 4. Madame Tussauds Istanbul
• 5. Camlica Tower
• 6. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul
• 7. Istanbul Sapphire Observation Deck
• 8. Istanbul City, Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Stopover on the Asian Shore
• 9. The Best of Istanbul Private Walking Tour
• 10. Istanbul Hagia Sophia Basilica Cistern Blue Mosque, Bosphorus Cruise
• 11. Galata Half-day Walking Tour
• 12. Bosphorus and Golden Horn Sunset Tour in Istanbul
• 13. Istanbul Highlights Afternoon Tour
• 14. Hodjapasha Rhythm of the Dance Show
• 15. SEA LIFE Istanbul Aquarium
• 16. Museum of Illusions Admission in Istanbul
• 17. Turkish Coffee Tour in Istanbul
• 18. Istiklal Street Walking Tour in Beyoglu
• 19. Cagaloglu Hammam Experience in Istanbul
• 20. Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Day Tour from Istanbul

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