Top 50 Best Things to Do in Istanbul
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Top 50 Best Things to Do in Istanbul

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • Hagia Sophiatop_1
    4.7/5
    󰺂9.7
    540218
    Istanbul.Old City Sultanahmet457m from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    Byzantine murals & balcony view
    󱨜A historical symbol of multiculturalism
    󱨠Saved by 1609 users󱨠2236 positive reviews
  • Basilica Cisterntop_2
    4.6/5
    󰺂9.3
    592432
    Istanbul.Old City Sultanahmet355m from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoBasilica Cistern becomes a popular photo spot
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󰋄Medusa columns guard mysterious underground
    󱨜Relive classic movie scenes
    󱨠Saved by 1451 users󱨠513 positive reviews
  • Topkapi Palacetop_3
    4.3/5
    󰺂8.7
    1024533
    Istanbul.Old City Sultanahmet879m from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoTopkapi Palace Ottoman History Experience
    trip best small logoAchieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󰋄Bosphorus Strait view available
    Overlook the magnificent bay view from the high point of the palace
    󱨠Saved by 801 users󱨠327 positive reviews
  • Dolmabahce Palace
    4
    4.7/5
    󰺂8.4
    779810
    Istanbul.Besiktas4.3 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰀆Ottoman center & ceiling decor
    󱓊Crystal stairs & chandelier
    󱨠Saved by 661 users󱨠263 positive reviews
  • Bosphorus
    5
    4.7/5
    󰺂8.3
    Istanbul.Taksim3.2 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󰋄Roman & Ottoman ruins abound
    󱤎Night cruise to enjoy the light show on both sides of the river
    󱨠Saved by 899 users󱨠309 positive reviews
  • The Blue Mosque
    6
    4.8/5
    󰺂8.2
    Istanbul.Old City Sultanahmet20m from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoSultan Ahmed Mosque Ottoman Tour
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󱨜Byzantine & Ottoman architecture fusion
    󱨜Blue tiles reflect the six spires
    󱨠Saved by 1320 users󱨠1100 positive reviews
  • Galata Tower
    7
    4.6/5
    󰺂8.1
    664731
    Istanbul.Galata2.3 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 5 of Night Attractions in Istanbul
    Highlights:
    󰋄Istanbul's stunning sunset views
    󰀆Nightclub with belly dance show
    󱨠Saved by 710 users󱨠262 positive reviews
  • Grand Bazaar
    8
    4.4/5
    󰺂7.4
    Istanbul.Old City Sultanahmet959m from downtown
    Highlights:
    Experience Turkish bargaining shopping
    󱓊Taste kebabs for exotic experience
    󱨠Saved by 755 users󱨠108 positive reviews
  • Istanbul Archaeological Museums
    9
    4.5/5
    󰺂7.4
    392858
    Istanbul.Sirkeci757m from downtown
    Highlights:
    Near Gülhane Park & Topkapi Palace
    󱓊1 million artifacts from various cultures
    󱨠Saved by 233 users󱨠38% positive reviews
  • Istiklal Avenue
    10
    4.7/5
    󰺂6.7
    Istanbul.Taksim3.2 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 6 of Night Attractions in Istanbul
    Highlights:
    󰋄3-mile walk through medieval Genoa
    Consulates & churches along the street
    󱨠Saved by 520 users󱨠124 positive reviews

Best things to do in Istanbul (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Istanbul? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Istanbul offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Istanbul

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Istanbul experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Hagia Sophia

• Istanbul.Old City Sultanahmet | 457m from downtown

• : Byzantine murals & balcony view,A historical symbol of multiculturalism

Basilica Cistern

• Istanbul.Old City Sultanahmet | 355m from downtown

• : Medusa columns guard mysterious underground,Relive classic movie scenes

Topkapi Palace

• Istanbul.Old City Sultanahmet | 879m from downtown

• : Bosphorus Strait view available,Overlook the magnificent bay view from the high point of the palace

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Istanbul

If you want to explore attractions just outside Istanbul, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Istanbul, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Istanbul special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Istanbul

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Istanbul

Ready to explore the best of Istanbul? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What Best Things to Do are there in Istanbul?
These are all Best Things to Do in Istanbul:Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Bosphorus
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Istanbul?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Istanbul include:Hagia Sophia:4.7, Basilica Cistern:4.6, Topkapi Palace:4.3, Dolmabahce Palace:4.7, Bosphorus:4.7
At what locations in Istanbul can Best Things to Do in Istanbul be found?
The Best Things to Do in Istanbul are mainly located in:Hagia Sophia:Istanbul, Basilica Cistern:Istanbul, Topkapi Palace:Istanbul, Dolmabahce Palace:Istanbul, Bosphorus:Istanbul
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