1) Grand Bazaar

Get ready to shop, bargain and experience one of the world’s oldest covered markets. There are a staggering 61 covered streets with over 4,000 shops so leave plenty of time to weave in and out of the shops and see the thrill of a traditional bazaar while picking up some local treats and authentic souvenirs.🛍️

2) Hagia Sophia

Once a church, the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, and it is only once you see it up close that you really can take in its religious significance throughout history coupled with its stunning beauty. It has withstood the test of time and has been reconstructed in the same place three times.

3) Topkapi Palace 

A museum and a palace in one, it is a gorgeous glimpse into the colourful and lavish interior of one of the world’s largest and oldest remaining palaces (built in 1465). The museum showcases artifacts across centuries of Sultans who resided there and it’s a wonderful display of Türkiye’s rich, historic culture.🏰

4) Blue Mosque 

Also known as the Sultanahmet Mosque, the name ‘Blue Mosque’ comes from the blue tiles used to decorate its interior. To witness it in person is nothing short of magical. It was commissioned by Sultan Ahmet I to rival the Hagia Sophia, although it has several architectural differences it its foundation of pillars and domes.

5) Basilica Cistern

Experience the underground constructions in Istanbul and explore this ancient cistern and the spectacular ambience among its grand marble columns. Fun fact: it was originally designed to store over 80,000 cubic metres of water for the Byzantine Empire.

1) Galata neighbourhood

If you’re after some spectacular views, check out the 14th century Galata tower with gorgeous views of the Bosporus and the Old City. The neighbourhood is officially called Karaköy and you’ll also find the modern Galata Bridge, picturesque views and charming streets and stairways.

2) Ortaköy neighbourhood

This area is now one of the most stunning waterfront neighbourhoods in the city, but used to be a charming, romantic fishing village. It is located at the foot of the first Bosphorus Bridge and you can always find a lively mix of small art galleries, beautiful coffee spots and restaurants, and historic monuments including the neo-baroque Ortaköy Mosque.

1) Bomonti district

This is a top spot for the late-night wanderers and foodies. You can find some of the city’s best restaurants and bars here including authentic Turkish dinners, live music, outdoor festivals, craft beers and cultural events.

2) Bosphorus cruise

See the city lights and the bridges lit up with a sunset or dinner cruise and a traditional Turkish show along the Bosphorus. Exploring the city by water is ideal for getting those sunset views and gorgeous pics for social media! 🌅🤳

Located along the Bosphorus, here you can find some of Istanbul’s most glamorous hotels with stunning views across the water. Beşiktaş itself offers a lively, youthful vibe with lots of casual bars and restaurants. It’s bustling at all hours of the day and is also a popular transit hub.

If you want to stay just a stone’s throw away from the historic centre of the city and many of the top sights, then this is the spot for you. This district is a convenient base to walk through the Old City and has a variety of accommodation options, from simple hostels to rooms in restored mansions with rooftop views.

Only a short tram ride away from Sultanahmet, this district is ideal if you want to stay in the heart of the contemporary arts and culture scene. You’ll find major cultural institutions, museums and restored European-style 19th and 20th century apartments. Enjoy fine contemporary restaurants and lively local taverns in the area. Many of the large hotels are around Taksim Square, but you can also find smaller hotels with their own unique charm in the surrounding neighbourhoods.

Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, this district has gained popularity in recent years with vibrant neighbourhoods, coffee shops, cool boutiques, restaurants, cocktail bars, pubs, and live music venues. If you’re a sunset chaser and enjoy a long walk alongside the water to catch those good views, then you can’t go wrong with getting accommodation here. There are several hotel options near the water, and you can easily take the ferry and hop across to the European side.

If you’re looking to spend a few days immersed in luxury and do some shopping, these districts just north of Taksim Square are flanked by designer shops and high-end department stores adorned with scenic leafy streets, elegant cafes, and restaurants. Nearby you’ll also find Macka Park, one of the biggest green spaces in the city centre and a popular spot for a stroll or a jog.

These adjacent neighbourhoods along the Golden Horn are a perfect pick if you love antiques and getting those Instagram pics 😉. Spot the traces of history among the cobbled streets, colourful old homes and wooden houses, intertwined with European-Turkish bistros and small churches. There are many antique stores and a thriving café culture. This area has limited accommodation options but with the new tram along the water, it’s easy to find somewhere to stay nearby.

These neighbourhoods are fantastic options to experience the most authentic Turkish markets and local life. In Kurtuluş you can experience traditional bakeries, homestyle restaurants and shops in a truly local atmosphere. Bomondi is situated around the Bomontiada entertainment complex, which boasts a growing nightlife and dining scene and some higher-end hotels as well.