Secret Things To Do In Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that is steeped in history and culture, and it is no surprise that it is one of the most visited cities in the world. From its incredible mosques to its bustling markets, Istanbul has something to offer for everyone. It is a city of diverse experiences, from the grand palaces of the Ottoman era to the modern and vibrant nightlife. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Istanbul offers an abundance of attractions to explore. However, there are some hidden gems in Istanbul that many visitors miss out on, so here we will explore some of the city’s best-kept secrets and provide helpful tips for your visit.

A Brief History of Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history stretching back more than 2,500 years. It has been the capital of four different empires – the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Latin Empire and the Ottoman Empire. The city was known as Constantinople until the early 20th century, when it was renamed Istanbul by the Turkish Republic. The city has been a melting pot of cultures for centuries, and it is home to some of the world’s most impressive monuments, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.

Istanbul Today

Today, Istanbul is a vibrant and bustling metropolis of over 15 million people. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, with its unique blend of cultures, stunning architecture and buzzing nightlife. The city is known for its traditional Turkish cuisine, which is renowned for its use of fresh ingredients and fragrant spices. It is also home to some of the world’s best shopping, with bustling bazaars and designer boutiques selling everything from carpets to jewelry.

Exploring the City

One of the best ways to explore Istanbul is to take a walking tour. Walking tours are available in all areas of the city, from the historic heart of Sultanahmet to the modern streets of Beyoglu. These tours offer visitors an intimate insight into Istanbul’s culture and history, as well as providing plenty of photo opportunities. If you want to explore further afield, there are also guided day trips to some of Istanbul’s lesser-known attractions, such as Aydinlik Cave or Kizkalesi Island.

Secret Things To Do In Istanbul

Now that we have explored some of the basics of visiting Istanbul, here are some secret things you can do during your stay.

Enjoy a Turkish Bath

Turkish baths are an essential part of Turkish culture, and visiting one is a must for any traveler to Istanbul. A Turkish bath (or hamam) is an experience like no other – it involves lying on heated marble stones while attendants scrub and pamper your body with special oils and soap. After your session you can enjoy a massage or relax in one of the heated pools.

Visit an Unusual Museum

Istanbul is home to some unusual museums that many visitors don’t know about. These include the Museum of Innocence (a museum dedicated to love stories), the Museum of Broken Relationships (a collection of objects relating to failed relationships) and the Museum of Ali Baba (a museum dedicated to folk tales).

Take a Boat Trip Across the Bosphorus

The Bosphorus is a strait that separates Europe from Asia and it is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Taking a boat trip across it is one of the best ways to experience the city – you can admire the stunning views of both continents while enjoying a delicious meal on board.

Visit a Local Market

Istanbul is home to many vibrant markets where you can find everything from traditional crafts to fresh produce. The Grand Bazaar is one of the most famous markets in Istanbul – it dates back to 1461 and it is home to over 4,000 shops selling all kinds of goods. Other popular markets include the Spice Bazaar and the Flower Bazaar.

Explore Istanbul’s Underground

Istanbul’s underground system is one of the most fascinating parts of the city. The tunnels date back thousands of years and they are filled with forgotten artifacts from the Byzantine era. Exploring them can be a surreal experience – you can find ancient cisterns, hidden chambers and even underground rivers.

Visit an Abandoned Village

The abandoned village of Kayakoy is an intriguing place to visit – it was once a thriving Greek community but it has been abandoned since 1923. Its crumbling stone houses and deserted streets lend it an eerie atmosphere which makes it an interesting place to explore.

These are just some of the secret things you can do in Istanbul – there are plenty more surprises waiting to be discovered!

Popular Tours in Istanbul

Visitors to Istanbul can choose from a wide range of tours that explore different aspects of the city’s rich culture and history. Here we will look at some popular tours that can be booked online with Viator and GetYourGuide.

Viator Private Tour: Best Of Istanbul

This private tour offers visitors an insight into Istanbul’s top attractions – from the Grand Bazaar to Topkapi Palace and more. The tour includes pickup from your hotel, and you will have your own private guide who will provide an in-depth explanation about each attraction as you visit it. You will also have time for shopping and taking photos, making this a great option for first-time visitors who want to make the most out of their time in Istanbul. Book Best Of Istanbul Tour here.

GetYourGuide Half-Day City Tour: Old City Of Istanbul

This half-day tour offers an introduction to old Istanbul – from ancient churches and palaces to bustling bazaars and vibrant street life. You will have a knowledgeable guide who will tell you all about each attraction as you visit it, giving you an insight into the city’s colorful history. You will also have plenty of time for shopping at some of Istanbul’s best bazaars, so make sure you bring plenty of cash! Book Old City Of Istanbul Tour here.

Viator Half-Day Tour: Asian Side Of Istanbul

This half-day tour takes visitors on an exploration of Istanbul’s Asian side – from historic mosques and palaces to bustling bazaars and modern shopping malls. The tour includes pickup from your hotel, and you will have your own private guide who will provide an in-depth explanation about each attraction as you visit it. You will also have time for shopping and taking photos, making this a great option for first-time visitors who want to explore both sides of Istanbul. Book Asian Side Of Istanbul Tour here.

Conclusion

Istanbul is an incredible city that has something for everyone – whether you are looking for culture, history or nightlife, there is something for everyone in this vibrant metropolis. There are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Istanbul – from ancient tunnels to abandoned Greek villages – so make sure you take some time to explore these secret spots during your stay! There are also plenty of tours available which offer an insight into different aspects of Istanbul’s culture – from its ancient past to its modern present – so make sure you book one so that you can get the most out of your visit.