Snapshots
A fascinating city that forms the space for an uproaring clash of cultures between the East and the West, Istanbul is the meeting point between Europe and Asia. A city that is truly fascinating at its best, Istanbul is the perfect representation of vibrancy and culture. Home to the most spectacular cultural sites and exuberant cuisine, Istanbul is absolutely ethereal in its manyfold layers. A magnificent city that covers everything, from iconic landmarks to undiscovered attractions, Istanbul is the ideal place to visit for the enthusiastic traveler in you. An exciting city in all its diversity and glory, Istanbul is the most thriving metropolis you would come across. So, here’s for you to immerse yourself in the soul of Istanbul with this carefully curated Istanbul travel guide to navigate your way across this ever so captivating city.
Must see attractions in Istanbul
Bosphorus

A must visit attraction in your Istanbul travel guide, the Bosphorus Strait is something that truly defines the city. A connecting bridge between Europe and Asia, this strait also connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Among the top Istanbul tourist attractions, Bosphorus is considered to be the heart of the city. Dotted with stunning parks and Ottoman mansions, you definitely cannot miss out on visiting the Bosphorus Strait while in Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia

Unarguably the most important Istanbul tourist attractions, Hagia Sophia is also the most recognisable among the lot. A globally renowned structure, that was initially built as a Christian temple, where the Byzantine emperors were crowned, the Hagia Sophia was later converted to a mosque, and presently even functions as a museum. Among Istanbul must visit places, the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia is absolutely worth witnessing in all its entirety.
Topkapi Palace

A well-known Turkish structure that reeks of colourful stories in all its corners, the Topkapi Palace is a truly ethereal place to be at. An Istanbul must visit place, this palace dates back to a time between the 15th and the 19th centuries, during the court of the Ottoman Empire. Formerly inhabited by the Sultan himself, the Topkapi Palace boasts of the most opulent pavilions and offers an enthralling glimpse into the royal lifestyle.
Kadikoy Produce Market

Among the popularly growing Istanbul tourist attractions, visiting the Kadikoy Produce Market offers you a sensory experience like none other. Vibrant, aromatic and full of colourful sights and sounds, this market is considered to be home to the best fresh produce in the city. A famous centre for all the foodies and locals around, the Kadikoy Produce Market is also becoming hugely popular among the tourists in Istanbul. Take part in a guided culinary walk, or explore the place like a local. This market in Istanbul is enough to offer you knowledge about the local culture, food and lifestyle of the people.
Basilica Cistern

Considered as the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern is a structure of sheer grandeur, with the most exceptional architectural detailing. A mosque that also offers technical facilities, the Basilica Cistern was built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. A structure that was constructed with the purpose of storage of water for the residents at times of war, this Istanbul must visit place has now turned into a major attraction of the city. Featuring raised wooden platforms and subtle illumination, the Basilica Cistern definitely portrays a rather mystical appearance.
Top things to do while in Istanbul
Walk through the woods at the Belgrad Forest

A popular weekend destination, and a designated picnic area for the locals and the tourists alike, the Belgrad Forest is also often used as a common trail for the walkers and joggers of the city. A place that rejuvenates you instantly through the revitalizing touch of nature and fresh air, a walk through this beautiful wooded wonderland is surely among the top things to do in Istanbul. Also visit the nearby Ataturk Arboretum while here, which is a lesser spot in the city, showcasing a diverse variety of flora as well as several little ponds that completely puts you at ease.
Immerse yourself in the hammam experience

Get steamed up in the complete hammam experience at the Cemberlitas Hammami for an indulgence like none other. Featuring circular marble slabs, beneath which there is a dome with glass stars with rays of light piercing through the steam, this place offers the most otherworldly relaxation experience that you definitely cannot miss out on. A place that also offers the most rejuvenating head massages and clay face masks, the hammam treatments here are enough to restore life within you in a newfound way.
Shop at Grand Bazaar

A place that is renowned as among the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, shopping at the Grand Bazaar is definitely among the top things to do in Istanbul. Boasting of thousands of shops that are spread over a large area, occupying numerous streets, the Grand Bazaar is a great place even just to explore. Portraying a historic appeal, the Grand Bazaar perfectly portrays the complex layers of Istanbul. If you plan on shopping while here, getting those bargaining skills at work is a must!
Take a tour through Buyukada

The biggest of the nine islands that make up the Princes’ Island of Istanbul, taking a tour through Buyukada is among the exciting things to do in Istanbul. A place that offers a retreat away from the busy streets of the city, Buyukada is dotted with stunning Ottoman era mansions and meandering historic streets. Take some time out to experience the tranquility at the Marmara Sea, or hike up to the highest point in the island and unwind at the Yucetepe Kir Gazinosu or explore the Arka Yorgi Church.
Try out the street food

A city that is a haven for all the food lovers out there, exploring the local culinary landscape has to be among your things to do in Istanbul. From breakfast to dinner, you can binge on everything that the city has to offer while on the go. The street food here is safe and delicious, and equally fresh, served out of the wood-fired ovens. From the cream cheese spread to the famous Istanbul wraps, and Turkish ice creams, the street food of Istanbul is a true food lovers’ paradise.
Step into the streets of Istanbul and make the most out of your trip the next time that you visit the city for an unforgettable experience. Discover Istanbul’s unique side and plan your itinerary accordingly with our recommendations to set foot on your next adventure.
Disclaimer: The details mentioned throughout this blog are sourced from publicly accessible platforms. At Zeezest, we intend to share factual and verified information. Should there be any inconsistencies or variances in the information provided, please understand that these are entirely unintentional and not meant to mislead.