TOP Things to do for a Weekend in Istanbul, Turkey
Experience the best of Istanbul with our top weekend recommendations! From historic landmarks to vibrant markets and delectable cuisine, Istanbul has it all.
Spread across two continents and framed by the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara, Istanbul is a captivating city where history, culture, and modern vibrancy seamlessly intertwine. Once known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, this city has been a major player in history for centuries, and you can still see its rich past everywhere you go.
From exploring ancient landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to getting lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul offers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler. Whether you’re drawn to its historical sites, vibrant street markets, or breathtaking Bosphorus views, there’s no shortage of top things to do in Istanbul.
How much time do you need to visit Istanbul
Istanbul is Turkey’s largest and most populous city, and even lifelong residents haven’t explored all its hidden corners. For visitors looking to experience the best of Istanbul, we recommend staying at least 2 full days. This allows enough time to visit the top attractions, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, explore the diverse neighborhoods, and indulge in the local cuisine.
Where to stay in Istanbul
Since Istanbul sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, choosing the right neighbourhood to stay in is key to making the most of your visit. Most historical landmarks and top things to do in Istanbul are located on the European side, particularly in Fatih, home to attractions like Sultanahmet Square, the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
For first-time visitors, we highly recommend staying in Sultanahmet or near the Grand Bazaar, as these areas are within walking distance of major sights. During our trip, we stayed at Hotel California, a well-located accommodation offering great value, just steps away from Istanbul’s most famous landmarks.
Other popular areas to stay in Istanbul include:
• Beyoğlu (Taksim, Galata, Karaköy) – Best for nightlife, trendy cafés, and art galleries.
• Kadıköy (Asian Side) – A more local and laid-back vibe with great food spots.
• Beşiktaş – Ideal for travellers looking for Bosphorus views and ferry connections.
What to Eat in Istanbul – Must-Try Turkish Food
Istanbul’s food scene is a true reflection of its cultural diversity, blending Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Central Asian flavours. Here are some must-try Turkish dishes during your visit:
• Traditional Turkish Breakfast (Kahvaltı) – A feast of cheeses, olives, fresh bread, jams, and Menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers), best paired with Çay (Turkish tea).
• Turkish Coffee – A strong, unfiltered coffee that is boiled, not brewed, offering a unique taste.
• Kebab (Adana & Iskender Kebab) – Grilled meat served with flatbread and yogurt, a staple of Turkish cuisine.
• Balık Ekmek (Fish Sandwich) – Freshly grilled fish served in bread, commonly found near the Eminönü ferry docks.
• Baklava – A rich and sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and syrup.
• Turkish Delight (Lokum) – A chewy, sweet treat flavoured with rose, pomegranate, or pistachio.
Istanbul Guide: Top things to do
From the iconic landmarks of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque to the bustling bazaars of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, Istanbul is a city that never ceases to amaze. A place where East meets West, it offers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and modern charm. Whether you’re exploring its historic mosques, savoring Turkish street food, or admiring sunrise views over the Bosphorus, there’s no shortage of top things to do in Istanbul.
Shop at the Grand Bazaar – The World’s First Shopping Mall
With over 60 streets and 4,000 shops, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Dating back to the 15th century, it’s a labyrinth of handcrafted carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and spices—truly a shopper’s paradise.
Initially, we hoped to do some street photography inside the Grand Bazaar, but to our surprise, it was far more modernized than expected. However, we still enjoyed getting lost in its maze-like alleys and found unique souvenirs to take home.
Nearby, the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar) is a vibrant extension of the Grand Bazaar, packed with fragrant spices, Turkish delights, and dried fruits. It’s an absolute must-visit for food lovers!
👉 Tip: Bargaining is expected here, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices!
Sunrise Photography at Ortaköy Mosque – A Must-Visit Spot
The Ortaköy Mosque is undoubtedly one of the best places to photograph at sunrise. This smaller yet stunning mosque sits right on the Bosphorus waterfront, with the Bosphorus Bridge creating an unforgettable backdrop that connects Europe and Asia.
Arriving early, you’ll experience the local fishermen casting their rods, street cats roaming for a morning snack, and a peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive. Without a doubt, this was one of my favorite locations in Istanbul!
👉 Tip: Enjoy a famous Kumpir (Turkish stuffed baked potato) from one of the food stalls nearby after your sunrise session.
Stroll Along Eminönü Harborside – The Heart of Istanbul
The Eminönü promenade is one of the best spots to soak in Istanbul’s energy. It’s also where you can catch a Bosphorus cruise, offering stunning views of Ottoman palaces, bridges, and historic landmarks.
Along the waterfront, you’ll find street vendors selling Simit (Turkish sesame bagels) and fresh seafood. One of the best-known delicacies here is Balık Ekmek (fish sandwich)—a classic Istanbul street food experience.
Right across the street, you’ll find Yeni Cami (New Mosque), an often-overlooked but stunning mosque that’s worth a quick visit.
👉 Tip: A sunset ferry ride from Eminönü is one of the most magical ways to experience Istanbul’s skyline.
Walk Across Galata Bridge & Visit Galata Tower
A visit to Galata Bridge offers 360-degree views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. It’s always buzzing with fishermen, vendors, and locals sipping tea at waterfront cafés.
From the bridge, walk towards the Galata Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul. The view from the top is nothing short of breathtaking, especially at sunset.
The surrounding streets of Galata are filled with charming cafés, boutique shops, and historic alleys, making it a perfect place to wander.
👉 Tip: Visit Galata Tower early to avoid long queues, or enjoy the view from a rooftop café nearby instead.
Explore Sultanahmet – Istanbul’s Historic Heart
Most of Istanbul’s must-visit landmarks are concentrated in Fatih, specifically in Sultanahmet Square. Here, you’ll find:
• Hagia Sophia – A UNESCO-listed masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and museum over its 1,500-year history.
• Blue Mosque – One of the most stunning mosques in the world, known for its intricate blue tilework.
• Topkapi Palace – The lavish home of Ottoman sultans, filled with opulent chambers and beautiful courtyards.
• Basilica Cistern – A mystical underground chamber supported by 336 ancient columns, used for water storage since Roman times.
Since these attractions are all within walking distance, plan at least a half-day to explore them properly.
👉 Tip: Dress modestly when visiting mosques, and bring a scarf if you’re a woman.
Other Interesting Places in Istanbul
If you have extra time, consider visiting these lesser-known spots:
• Balat – A colorful neighborhood known for its vibrant houses, narrow streets, and cozy cafés. Prices here are much lower than in tourist-heavy areas like Galata.
• Istiklal Street & Taksim Square – A lively pedestrian street famous for shopping, dining, and the iconic red tram. It’s modern but doesn’t offer the same historical charm as other areas.
• Dolmabahçe Palace – A magnificent waterfront palace, often compared to Versailles, showcasing the luxury of the Ottoman Empire.
These spots may not be top priorities, but they’re great add-ons if you have extra time in Istanbul.
Istanbul Weekend Itinerary
Day 1
Start the day with Turkish breakfast with Turkish Coffee or Tea,
Head to the Grand Baazar - be ready to spend there few hours,
Head to Eminönü, check the New Mosque,
Walk through Galata Bridge towards Galata tower,
Head further to Istiklal Street to see the red tram,
Join the locals watching sunset at Eminönü Promenade,
Day 2
Visit Ortaköy Mosque for some iconic pictures at sunrise,
Head to Sultanahmet Square (Free)
Visit the Blue Mosque and the area around (Free),
Visit Hagia Sophia Mosque (25 Euro),
Visit Topkapi Palace (40 Euro),
Visit Basilica Cistern (17 Euro).
End the day watching sunset at Eminönü Promenade,
Final Thoughts
From ancient palaces and breathtaking mosques to bustling bazaars and scenic waterfronts, there’s an endless list of top things to do in Istanbul. Whether you have two days or an entire week, every street and skyline in this city tells a story worth exploring.
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