- Login or Create Account
Things To See & Do
Dolmabahce Palace
Home of the Last Emperor of Turkey
Known for its grandiose architecture the palace was constructed in the 19th century by Sultan Abdül Mecit and replaced the Topkap? Palace as the centre of Ottoman Empire upon its completion.
2-3 Hours.
Suggested Time
Topkapi Palace
Former Royal Abode
Constructed between 1466 and 1478 by Mehmet II, the palace acted as the centre of Ottoman Empire until the Dolmabahce Palace was constructed by the waterside.
1-2 Hours
Suggested Time
Blue Mosque
Breath-taking Architecture
A functioning mosque, its six towers and mesmerizing architecture has made it an extremely popular among tourists visiting Istanbul.
1-2 Hours.
Suggested Time
Suleymaniye Mosque
Istanbul’s Top Tourist Attraction
One of the grandest mosque in Istanbul, the Süleymaniye was constructed in the 16th century by Süleyman I and is one of the most popular places visited in Istanbul.
1-2 Hours.
Suggested Time
Basilica Cistern
An Ancient Water Tank
Famous for its awe-inspiring architecture, this is a subterranean water reservoir was built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 532 AD and is the largest of the surviving Byzantine underground water tank.
1-2 Hours.
Suggested Time
Kariye Museum
Home of Byzantine Era Artefacts
Also known as Chora Church, the Kariye Museum is a Byzantine Greek. It is home to a number of artefacts and provides a captivating glimpse of Byzantine Era art.
2-3 Hours
Suggested Time
Fatih Mosque
The Mosque of Conqueror
Fatih Mosque, positioned in the district of Fatih, is one of the largest examples of Turkish-Islamic architecture in Istanbul and carries historical importance as it was built by Mehmet the Conqueror.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Hagia Sophia
The Architectural Marvel
Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, is one of the most significant architectural structures in the world. Once a cathedral, later a mosque, and now a museum, it showcases the blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
2-3 hours
Suggested Time
Beylerbeyi Palace
Ottoman Elegance
Beylerbeyi Palace, located on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus, was a summer residence of the Ottoman sultans. It showcases opulent interiors and well-preserved architecture.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Galata Mevlevi House
The Whirling Dervishes' Home
Galata Mevlevi House, located near the Galata Tower, is a museum dedicated to the Mevlevi Order of Sufis, known for their whirling dances. It offers an intriguing insight into their lifestyle and practices.
1-2 hours
Suggested Time
Mall of Istanbul
The Ultimate Shopping Experience
The Mall of Istanbul, located in Basaksehir, is the largest shopping, entertainment and residential complex in Turkey. It's home to hundreds of stores, restaurants, and a giant theme park.
3-5 hours
Suggested Time
Istiklal Avenue
Istanbul's Vibrant Heartbeat
Istiklal Avenue is a bustling street in the Beyoglu district of Istanbul. Known for its historic tram, it's lined with numerous shops, caf�s, restaurants, galleries, and boutiques.
2-4 hours
Suggested Time
Hippodrome
The Byzantine Legacy
The Hippodrome, located in Sultanahmet district, was the social and sporting centre of Byzantine Constantinople. Today, it's an open-air museum showcasing ancient obelisks and columns.
1 hour
Suggested Time
Princes Islands
A Tranquil Escape
Princes' Islands, a group of nine islands off the coast of Istanbul, offers a peaceful retreat from the city hustle. They are famous for their car-free streets and Victorian-style houses.
Full Day
Suggested Time
Best Time To Visit Istanbul
Ideal year round destination
APR-SEP
Peak Season
FEB-MAR
Moderate Season
OCT-JAN
Off-season
- What To Expect:Dry and sunny weather with pleasant temperatures.
- Things You'll Love:Exploring the sites and shopping from the colourful markets.
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
Book Your Trip to Istanbul
From
Travel Options to reach Istanbul
Our Recommendations
Flight to Istanbul Airport
10h 15m . One way
Booking Options Starting From
₹18,840
Flight to Baku Airport, then Flight to Istanbul Airport
11h 25m . One way
Booking Options Starting From
₹27,494
Stay in Istanbul
Recommended Options
3 STAR HOTELS
Recommended For You
Average Price
₹5,549
Orient Mintur Hotel
Sultanahmet
5/5
₹5,813
Onwards
Vision Deluxe Hotel
Sultanahmet
₹7,559
Onwards
The Havana Residence
Taksim
₹3,277
Onwards
4 STAR HOTELS
Recommended For You
Average Price
₹13,522
Princess Residence
Asian Side
₹8,995
Onwards
White House Hotel Istanbul
Sultanahmet
5/5
₹24,278
Onwards
Be Mate Casa di Bava
Taksim
5/5
₹7,295
Onwards
5 STAR HOTELS
Recommended For You
Average Price
₹15,995
The Bank Hotel Istanbul, a Member of Design Hotels - Special Class
Galata
5/5
₹20,481
Onwards
Hilton Istanbul Bomonti Hotel & Conference Center
Sisli
4.5/5
₹18,884
Onwards
Ottoman's Life Hotel Deluxe
Fatih
5/5
₹8,621
Onwards
Discover by Interest
Places to Visit in Istanbul for Your Next Vacation
The gateway of Turkey, Istanbul is a traveller’s paradise. From architectural hallmarks to splendid gardens and iconic historical structures - there are a host of wonderful places to visit in Istanbul. You can avail of buses, cabs, metro and other transportation options to explore the best tourist places in Istanbul.
Exploring the Iconic Landmarks
A country that boasts of rich cultural heritage, here are some of the most loved places to visit in Istanbul:
- Topkapi Palace:Topkapi Palaceis a lovely museum complex with several halls and chambers that contain a collection of the rarest items in the world.
- Sultan Ahmed Mosque:This is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul with family where you can explore the architecture and appreciate the semi-domes decorating the interiors of this “Blue Mosque”.
- Hagia Sophia:An architectural marvel and one of the best places to visit in Istanbul for couples that once used to be a cathedral and is now a mosque, this mighty structure is known for its marble columns and the perfect blend of designs, light and colours that add to its beauty.
- Basilica Cistern:Built in 532 AD, Basilica Cisternis the largest underground water storage facility with awe-inspiring and beautifully designed internal columns.
- Galata Tower:If you are listing down the places to visit in Istanbul for 3 days, do keep Galata Tower in your itinerary for it offers a breathtaking view of the city as a nine-storeyed building. You can also visit the Galata Tower Museum to get a taste of the traditional Istanbul lifestyle.
Group Activities and Adventures in Istanbul
When it comes to spending time with your friends and family, here are some of the best places to visit in Istanbul:
- Bosphorus Cruise:Hire a private yacht and enjoy beautiful views of the cityscape with your friends and family at Bosphorus Cruise, one of the best places to visit in Istanbul at night.
- Vialand:An exotic theme park filled with entertaining rides and unlimited fun, Vialand is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul.
- Grand Bazaar:Explore the charm of ancient markets in Grand Bazaarwhere you can shop from more than 4,000 stalls.
- Gulhane Park:One of the most amazing places to visit in Istanbul with friends, Gulhane Park is a great spot for family picnics or outings with friends, especially during the Tulip Festival.
- Princes’ Islands:If you are looking for places to visit in Istanbul for 2 days, Princes’ Islandsis a must-visit spot having four accessible islands where you can participate in exciting outdoor activities and enjoy a leisurely stroll on a path lined with pine forests and cosy wooden cottages.
Romantic Dining Spots in Istanbul
Apart from historical landmarks, there are a lot of other places to visit in Istanbul, especially for couples. Some of the top restaurants where you can spend quality time with your partner include:
- Mitara Cafe and Art:This dining spot is known for its cosy vibes and homely food, perfect for a casual date.
- Durban Cafe:Indulge in local and global delights at this classic restaurant known for its ethnic decor and stone walls.
- Hanzade Terrace Restaurant:Enjoy local meat and fish delights along with drinks and an incredible view from the rooftop.
| Kariye Museum, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Aya Sofya, Dolmabahce Palace | |
| Country | |
| Best Time to Visit in Istanbul | April to September |
| Things to Do in Istanbul | Suleymaniye Mosque, Blue Mosque, Take Relaxing Bath at Cemberlitas Hamami, Enjoy Ferry Ride Across Bosporus, Take Relaxing Stroll in Gulhane Park |
| Places to visit in Istanbul with Family | Witness Whirling Dervishes at Galata Mevlevihanesi, Kumkapi, Nisantasi, Taksim Square, Ortakoy |
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Istanbul
What are the activities you can explore during the peak season and moderate season in Istanbul?
In the peak season months April, May, June, July, August and September you will experience dry and sunny weather with pleasant temperatures wherein around moderate season i.e. February, March and April you will enjoy low temperatures with windy weather. Whatever that suits your calendar, Istanbul awaits you for a good time.
Which are the best heritage places to explore in Istanbul?
The best heritage places in Istanbul are Dolmabahce Palace, Topkapi Palace and Blue Mosque. You will have an amazing time exploring these heritage places in Istanbul and will definitely come back home with a bag full of lovely memories.
What is the best time to visit Istanbul?
Ideally the best time to visit any place is considered when the weather conditions are delightful. For Istanbul, you can choose to go in April, May, June, July, August and September which is the peak season and February, March and April which is the moderate season. Both will serve you well to unwind from your tedious routine.