Things you must do when in Istanbul

The list of things to do in Istanbul is probably endless with its rich culture and many wonderful attractions. Never did I expect to love this city so much. I fell in love with it in a second. Even in the taxi on my way to the hotel. Along the banks of the Marmara Sea and the Bosphorus were so many playgrounds packed with families out picnicking. The sight of it gave me a feeling of instant happiness. Spotting the first minarets made my heart jump. I couldn’t wait to discover everything Istanbul has to offer! And boy, it sure is A LOT!

Here’s a list of the things I did that I enjoyed the most and that I definitely recommend!

Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya)

You can’t go to Istanbul and NOT visit this architectural work of art. It was built in the 6th century and it is still here in all its glory. It’s an important symbol for the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Hagia Sophia means Shrine of the Holy of God. It started as a cathedral and became a mosque later. The frescoes are proof of that. Now it’s a beautiful museum you must visit! I was a little disappointed because there were scaffoldings inside so half of the interior wasn’t visible. I’m sure the effect would have been much more overwhelming if constructions hadn’t been there. Even though it’s a museum, the call of prayer can be heard from its minarets every day.
Open every day / 30TL

Topkapi Palace

I already dedicated a blog post to this wonderful monument. Probably the most beautiful attraction of Istanbul. Especially the harem part is something you just have to experience. The fireplaces, the lounges, the many iznik tiles with different drawings and colors and the countless decorations and details are so worth your time to admire!
Closed on Tuesday / 30TL + 15TL for the harem

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici)

The “sunken palace” of Istanbul has probably the most mystique vibe from all the attractions. It’s called “sunken palace” by the Turks because of the underground marble columns, but actually it’s an underground water reservoir. Formerly there used to be a basilica, that’s why we also call it the Basilica Cistern. In the back you can find 2 Medusa heads supporting 2 pilars. No one really knows where these heads come from, which fascinates every visitor. It’s a fun attraction to do, especially when it’s hot outside. The cool water drops that fall on your head and shoulders are a welcome refreshment. Be careful if you have slippery shoes. I almost slipped into the water reservoir. Thank God for railings!
Open every day / 20TL

Galata Tower

The tower on its own isn’t a beauty or very spectacular. You should take the elevator to the top and enjoy the 360° view of Istanbul! I had bad luck going up when the weather wasn’t clear. So save this for a sunny bright day! Also be careful with selfiesticks, since you are not the only one up there and the moving space is very narrow.
Open every day / 18,5TL

Galata Bridge

Cross the bridge and enjoy the sights and the many fishermen!

Gulhane Park

This park is situated next to the Topkapi Palace. It’s huge and great to escape the bustling city streets. Take a look at the benches and the trash cans; even those are beautiful here!

Mosques

When in Istanbul you really should discover the beauty of the mosques! My 3 favourites were the Blue Mosque, the Suleymaniye Mosque and the Rustem Pasa Mosque.
The small Rustem Pasa Mosque is hidden in the alleys near the Spice Market. It should be called “Little Blue Mosque” if you ask me, because the 2300 iznik tiles are of better quality than the Blue Mosque and it looks more blue! The Blue Mosque is a must of course and is gorgeous, but take into account you have to be there early to avoid standing in line too long. I got there around 8 in the morning and was the second one. This mosque is always crowded so I prefered the Suleymaniye Mosque because there were fewer people. I went there 3 or 4 times and I think there were 10 people when it was at its busiest. It’s a nice place to sit down and take it all in. It has less details in its interior but it’s still remarkable.
Open every day / closed during pray time

Shopping

Istanbul is a great place for shopping. I’m not just talking about the obvious shopping streets such as Istiklal Caddesi where you can find all the department stores. I’m talking about food, souvenirs, decorations,… Wandering around the Grand Bazaar or the Spice Market is so much fun! There are so many colors and smells! Every sales man will try to speak with you so he can offer you tea and show his store, but they’re never too pushy. Everyone is really nice. Sometimes a little too nice and some even gave me their number, as if I would call them.
My favorite store must be Myth Arts near the Gulhane Park, where I bought 2 lamps. A very nice guy is working there called Huseyin. He offered me apple tea (so yummie!!) and we had a really nice conversation about our cultural differences and traveling. He was so patient with me, because I was terrible at deciding which lamp to choose. He was very friendly and helpful!

Listen to the call to prayer

You can take a seat on the benches between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque and listen to the call to prayer (or ezan) in “surround sound”. First the muezzin (the man who sings the call to prayer) of the Blue Mosque starts and then the one from Aya Sofya, then the Blue Mosque again,… it switches between the two and it is very impressive! When there’s a very short pause between the two, you can hear other muezzin call from the many other mosques in Istanbul. It’s mesmerizing!

Istanbul by night

 

Most of the monuments are beautifully lit so it’s a must to experience Istanbul by night!

I know I should’ve done a Bosphorus tour, but due to the weather it wasn’t possible anymore when I decided to go for it. So I’ll keep that for next time!

What are your favorite places in Istanbul? Please share in the comments down below!