Two continents, 2,500 years of history and some of the best street food in the world. These are the things to do in Istanbul that first-time visitors shouldn’t miss.
The two great domes of Sultanahmet face each other across a park. Hagia Sophia was a church, then a mosque, then a museum and is a mosque again; the Blue Mosque is named for the İznik tiles inside. Dress modestly, and check prayer times before you go.
Home of the Ottoman sultans for 400 years. Allow three hours for the courtyards, the treasury and the Harem, which needs a separate ticket but is the best part.
Thousands of shops under painted vaults. Go early, haggle gently and finish at the Spice Bazaar by the Galata Bridge for Turkish delight, saffron and dried fruit.
Public ferries from Eminönü are the cheapest way to see the palaces, mansions and bridges from the water. Sunset sailings are the ones to book.
A sixth-century underground reservoir held up by 336 columns, including two carved with Medusa heads. Cool, atmospheric and a welcome break from the sun.
Climb the tower for the classic skyline view, then wander down through Karaköy’s cafés, galleries and the Istanbul Modern museum on the waterfront.
Take the ferry across for the food market, the murals of Yeldeğirmeni and dinner in Moda. It feels like a different city.
Sinan’s masterpiece sits on a hill above the Golden Horn. Quieter than the Blue Mosque, and the view from the terrace is one of Istanbul’s best.
Several of the city’s working baths date from the sixteenth century. Read our hammam guide for what to expect.
See how to get to Istanbul, compare the best areas to stay and check the best time to visit. Browse tours and experiences in Istanbul listed on Visit Turkey.