Istanbul, Turkey Things To Do – The Ultimate City Guide

Istanbul is one of the world’s most exciting and vibrant cities. With its unique combination of European and Asian cultures, its historical monuments and landmarks, and its many attractions and activities, Istanbul offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for cultural excursions, sightseeing tours, outdoor activities, or simply a chance to experience the city’s famous nightlife and cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Istanbul.

A Brief History of Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a storied history dating back thousands of years. It was founded in 667 BC by Greek settlers as Byzantium, and later became the capital of the Byzantine Empire. The city was renamed Constantinople in 330 AD when it became the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. In 1453, it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and made its capital. Istanbul continued to serve as the capital of the Ottoman Empire until the mid-1920s when the Republic of Turkey was established.

Today, Istanbul is a bustling metropolis with over 15 million people living in its metropolitan area. It is the largest city in Turkey, and it is one of the most important cities in the world, due to its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Istanbul is also renowned for its rich culture and heritage, as well as its bustling nightlife, shopping, and culinary delights.

Famous Sights and Attractions

One of the most popular things to do in Istanbul is to explore its famous sights and landmarks. Some of the top attractions include the Hagia Sophia, an impressive Byzantine-era church; Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans; and the Blue Mosque, a spectacular 17th-century mosque. Other must-see sights include the Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower overlooking Istanbul’s skyline; Spice Bazaar, a colorful market filled with local spices, fruits, and nuts; and Sultanahmet Square, a bustling public square located in the heart of Istanbul.

Cultural Experiences

Aside from sightseeing, there are plenty of cultural activities to enjoy in Istanbul. Visitors can take a boat tour along the Bosphorus Strait to experience the city’s majestic waterfront. They can also explore Istanbul’s many museums, including the Istanbul Archaeology Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts from the different civilizations that have inhabited the city throughout history. Other popular cultural experiences include attending an Istanbul music festival or traditional Turkish bathhouse experience.

Outdoor Activities

Istanbul also offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. One popular activity is walking along Istiklal Street, one of the city’s main pedestrian thoroughfares lined with shops and restaurants. Another popular activity is to take a day trip out to Belgrade Forest, a sprawling forest located just outside of Istanbul. Here visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic spots, and stunning views of the city skyline. There are also plenty of beaches located around Istanbul where visitors can relax or take part in watersports such as swimming and snorkeling.

Nightlife and Cuisine

Istanbul is also well-known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs located throughout the city. Visitors can also enjoy some of Istanbul’s famous cuisine such as kebabs and mezes. Turkish coffee is also popular among locals and tourists alike. The city is also home to several acclaimed restaurants serving up international and Turkish specialties.

Two Popular Tours: Istanbul Sightseeing Tour & Bosphorus River Cruise

One of the best ways to explore Istanbul is to take a sightseeing tour or a Bosphorus River Cruise.

Istanbul Sightseeing Tour

The Istanbul Sightseeing Tour takes visitors on a guided journey through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This tour includes stops at Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square, and other popular attractions. During this tour, guests get to experience the city’s vibrant culture as well as its rich history. The tour also includes stops at traditional Turkish bathhouses and tea houses for a unique cultural experience. Guests can book this tour here.

Bosphorus River Cruise

The Bosphorus River Cruise takes visitors on a journey along one of Istanbul’s most iconic waterways. This tour includes stops at several of Istanbul’s beautiful bridges as well as some of its most famous landmarks along both shores of the river. Guests will gain a unique perspective on the city’s history as well as its stunning skyline. The tour also includes stops at some of Istanbul’s most iconic castles and mansions located along the banks of the Bosphorus River. Guests can book this tour here.

Conclusion

From sightseeing tours to outdoor activities and cultural experiences, there are plenty of great things to do in Istanbul. Whether you’re looking for an urban adventure or a chance to relax and enjoy some local hospitality, Istanbul has something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a unique travel experience full of history and culture, then be sure to add Istanbul to your list of must-see destinations!