20 Reasons Why Istanbul Should Be Your Next Destination
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Picture yourself weaving through markets that spill over with colors and scents, looking up at ancient domes against the skyline, and catching the gleam of the setting sun on the Bosphorus.
Istanbul is a meeting point—not just of Europe and Asia but of past and present, tradition and innovation. It’s perfect for anyone who loves to peel back the layers of time to uncover the stories hidden beneath.
I was skeptical before I visited Istanbul and had no idea what to expect, especially as a solo female traveler. However, I was blown away by this city and would return again and again. It’s a huge city, and you won’t be able to see it all in one visit, but I’ve arranged this list in order of my favorite experiences.
1. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
There is no shortage of mosques in Istanbul, but Hagia Sophia was my favorite. It’s important to remember that all mosques are places of worship and should be respected. Women must bring a scarf to cover their heads, and modest dress is required.
The Hagia Sophia is a magnificent testament to Byzantine and Ottoman Empire architecture. Originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was later converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in the 15th century and now serves as a museum.
Its awe-inspiring dome, considered an engineering marvel of its time, and stunning mosaics depicting Christian and Islamic themes make it a must-visit. The blend of architectural elements from two of the world’s greatest empires offers a unique glimpse into Istanbul’s diverse history.
2. Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
Facing the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is famed for its six minarets and the blue tiles adorning its interior walls. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmet I in the early 17th century, it’s an active place of worship and a prime example of classical Ottoman architecture.
The courtyard is especially magnificent at sunset when the mosque is bathed in soft light, highlighting the intricate designs and craftsmanship that make this mosque a masterpiece.
3. Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı)
This ancient cistern, built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, lies beneath the city of Istanbul. Known for its architectural and historical significance, the cistern once stored water for the Great Palace and nearby buildings.
Today, visitors can walk on wooden platforms above the water and admire the cistern’s 336 marble columns, the Medusa head bases, and the soft, illuminated ambiance that fills the space.
This was one of my favorite stops in Istanbul. The lighting changes throughout, and it’s absolutely beautiful. Seeing the intricate details and thoughts that went into this cistern is incredible.
4. Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace offers a fascinating peek into the opulent lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans and their harems. The palace complex is a sprawling treasure trove of Islamic art, with courtyards lined with intricate hand-painted tilework, lush gardens, and views overlooking the Bosphorus.
Notable highlights include the Imperial Council Chamber, the Harem, and the Treasury, which houses the stunning Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond.
5. Istanbul Archaeology Museums
This museum complex, nestled in the grounds of the Topkapi Palace, is a treasure trove of artifacts from Turkey and the ancient Near East, showcasing civilizations that have left their mark on this region.
The Archaeology Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient, and the Tiled Kiosk Museum together house a collection that spans over a million objects, including the Alexander Sarcophagus, renowned for its detailed reliefs, and the Treaty of Kadesh, the oldest known peace treaty in the world.
The museums offer a deep dive into human history, from Mesopotamian tablets to Ottoman-era artifacts, providing a comprehensive view of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
6. Galata Bridge
Connecting Istanbul’s historic peninsula with the Galata district, the Galata Bridge is more than just a means of crossing the Golden Horn; it’s a lively gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Fishermen line its sides, while below, restaurants and cafes serve fresh seafood and Turkish delights. The bridge offers a unique vantage point for watching the sunset over the city’s skyline, making it a popular spot for photographers and romantics.
7. Galata Tower
The medieval Galata Tower offers one of the best vantage points from which to view Istanbul in all its glory. Built in the 14th century by the Genoese, the tower has served various roles, from a prison to a fire lookout.
Today, visitors can ascend to its upper balcony for 360-degree views that span the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, and the historical peninsula. The area around the tower, with its narrow streets and cozy cafes, is also worth exploring.
8. Bosphorus Strait Cruise
A cruise on the Bosphorus Strait is an unforgettable experience, offering panoramic views of Istanbul’s European and Asian sides. The strait serves as a natural divide between the two continents, and a boat trip along its waters provides spectacular sights of historical palaces, fortresses, and bridges alongside the bustling waterfront life of the city.
Sunset cruises are particularly magical, with the city’s skyline illuminated against the twilight.
9.Spice Bazaar (Mısır Çarşısı)
The Spice Bazaar, located in the Eminönü quarter, is a sensory overload with myriad smells, tastes, and colors.
Established in the 17th century, it’s the second-largest covered market in Istanbul. It is famous for its variety of spices, herbs, teas, dried fruits, nuts, and traditional sweets like Turkish delight.
The bazaar is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts and to sample local delicacies.
Walking through the bazaar is incredible. I loved walking through the shops, seeing (and smelling) the spices, and learning about the different teas. Most shop owners made tea for us to enjoy while pursuing the shop.
10. Grand Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı)
The Grand Bazaar, which dates back to the 15th century, is one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets. It spans 61 streets and houses over 4,000 shops.
A labyrinth of alleys and shops offers everything from traditional Turkish carpets and lanterns to jewelry and ceramics. The bustling atmosphere, vibrant colors, and the art of bargaining here are experiences in themselves.
While I think this is a must-see destination due to its incredible architecture and history, I honestly hated it here. It felt very chaotic, crowded, and lined with pushy vendors, which made me feel uncomfortable when I wanted to look at things without being bothered.
11. Turkish Bath (Hamam)
No visit to Istanbul is complete without experiencing a traditional Turkish bath. These historic bathhouses, such as Çemberlitaş Hamami and Süleymaniye Hamami, offer a glimpse into Ottoman bathing culture.
Visitors can enjoy a steam bath, body scrub, and foam massage under the ornate domes of these centuries-old buildings. The process is both cleansing and deeply relaxing, providing a unique way to unwind and immerse oneself in Turkish tradition. Each hamam has its own character and history, adding to the allure of the experience.
12. Dolmabahçe Palace
Dolmabahçe Palace is a stunning example of 19th-century Ottoman luxury and European neoclassical influences. Its opulent interior includes a 4.5-ton chandelier and a grand ceremonial hall.
The palace, set on the Bosphorus’s shores, was the Ottoman Empire’s administrative center in its final years and the residence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, who also passed away here.
13. Süleymaniye Mosque
The Süleymaniye Mosque, a masterpiece by the celebrated Ottoman architect Sinan, stands tall on one of Istanbul’s seven hills, offering stunning views of the city.
Built-in the 16th century for Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, the mosque combines beauty and functionality, reflecting the zenith of Ottoman architectural achievement. Its harmonious interior, impressive domes, and four slender minarets create a serene atmosphere, while the surrounding gardens and tombs of Suleiman and his wife, Hürrem Sultan (Roxelana), add to its historical significance.
14. Istiklal Avenue
Istiklal Avenue is the beating heart of Istanbul’s modern city life, bustling with shops, cafes, bookstores, and art galleries. This pedestrian street stretches from Taksim Square to the historic Galata Tower.
It is always alive with energy, from the clattering of the nostalgic tram running down its center to the street performers and vendors that line its path.
The avenue is also home to historic passages, cinemas, and cultural centers, making it a central point of entertainment and culture in Istanbul.
15. Princes’ Islands
A short ferry ride from Istanbul, the Princes’ Islands are a breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The islands are known for their tranquil atmosphere, beautiful pine forests, and stunning Ottoman mansions.
Motor vehicles are banned here, making horse-drawn carriages and bicycles the main modes of transport. The largest and most popular, Büyükada, offers lovely beaches, hiking trails, and panoramic views from the Aya Yorgi Monastery.
16. Chora Church (Kariye Museum)
The Chora Church, or Kariye Museum, is a hidden gem in the Edirnekapı neighborhood. Originally a Byzantine church, it is adorned with some of the finest surviving examples of Byzantine art, including exquisite mosaics and frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.
These artworks are remarkable for their depth, color, and emotional expression, offering a glimpse into Byzantine society’s spiritual and artistic life.
17. Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum
Located in the historic Sultanahmet district, the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is housed in the former palace of Ibrahim Pasha and displays a comprehensive collection of Islamic art.
The exhibits include beautifully crafted carpets, calligraphy, woodwork, and ceramics from the Umayyad to Ottoman periods. The museum provides insight into the artistic achievements and daily life of the Islamic world, and its rich collection of artifacts offers a profound understanding of the culture.
18. Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi)
Perched on a small islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus, the Maiden’s Tower is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, steeped in legends and history. The current tower dates back to the 18th century, though earlier structures have been on the site since Byzantine times.
Once a lighthouse and a quarantine station, it now hosts a restaurant and café. A visit offers romantic views of Istanbul’s silhouette, especially enchanting at dusk.
19. Rüstem Pasha Mosque
Designed by the great Ottoman architect Sinan for Rüstem Pasha, the son-in-law and grand vizier of Suleiman the Magnificent, this mosque is often overlooked by tourists, but it is a true architectural gem.
It’s particularly renowned for its interior, which is covered in some of the most exquisite İznik tiles, featuring floral and geometric designs that make it a standout example of Ottoman decorative art.
20. Fener and Balat
These historic neighborhoods along the Golden Horn are famous for their colorful houses, cobbled streets, and multicultural heritage once the home of the city’s Greek and Jewish communities, Fener and Balat have retained their old-world charm with antique shops, cafes, and traditional wooden houses.
The area also has significant historical sites like the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate and the Chora Church. As you wander through these neighborhoods, you’ll encounter vibrant street art, cozy coffee shops, and antique stores that give a glimpse into the area’s rich past and increasingly hip future.
Fener and Balat are perfect for those looking to experience a different side of Istanbul, away from the usual tourist trails. They offer a deeper understanding of the city’s diverse cultural tapestry.
