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A majestic and alluring city straddling two continents, İstanbul has a long and fascinating history. But it’s also a vibrant and exciting place to be. With a diverse crowd, the cultural scene is exploding. And the food is certainly worth exploring.
Whether it’s wandering through one of the city’s many art galleries, picking up some trinkets from the Grand Bazaar, or tucking into some freshly-made street food, read on to find out why İstanbul deserves a firm spot on your travel bucket list.
Soak up the culture
A cultural melting pot, İstanbul is steeped in history and no visit to this ancient city would be complete without visiting some of its many museums, art galleries, heritage sites and mosques.
Art & design
İstanbul is home to many talented, up-and-coming designers and artists, inspired by the city. İstanbul Modern is the place to head for works by contemporary Turkish artists. And for emerging talent, explore the small galleries and modern art spaces of Karakoy, Galata and Çukurcuma.
The big names are based in Nişantaşı, a modern European neighbourhood. But here you’ll also find galleries showcasing classical Turkish painters, elegant designer boutiques, international stores and classy restaurants.
There’s a fabulous calendar of art-related festivals and events, too. Look out for the prestigious İstanbul Biennial and the city’s leading art fair, Contemporary İstanbul.
History & architecture
İstanbul has a distinctive skyline, and four areas of the city have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The old city is the perfect place to wander and discover the many historical sites. The Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), with its six minarets, and dazzling interior decoration due to its blue-dominated İznik tiles is a city landmark – it’s also known as the Blue Mosque. And the Ayasofya, which had the largest interior space of any building in the known world in its time, is easily recognised with its vast dome and colourful marble columns.
Take in the Ottoman grandeur of the 15th-century Topkapı Palace or enjoy 360-degree views from the Galata Tower. It was once the tallest building in İstanbul. For an underground view of the city, descend the 52 steps to the 6th-century Basilica Cistern – the largest surviving underground water storage structure in İstanbul.
Archaeology & museums
There are more than 80 museums in İstanbul. Wonder at collections in centuries-old Ottoman palaces along the Bosphorus. Or explore the history of transport, industry and communications on the Golden Horn. Highlights also include the three sites and splendid garden that make up the İstanbul Archaeological Museums – including the first regular museum appearing in the history of Ottoman Empire in its complex – and the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, a part of this museums complex, you’ll find fantastic examples of Islamic calligraphy, tiles, and rugs.
There are many more museums across the city, showcasing everything from mosaics to toys. Their diversity reflects İstanbul’s eclectic character.
Indulge in some retail therapy
İstanbul has an allure that has drawn in shoppers for centuries. And from the traditional, covered bazaars to designer boutiques and upmarket shopping malls, it’s just as popular today.
Traditional bazaars
No trip to İstanbul is complete without experiencing the smells, sounds and colours of the Grand Bazaar. Dating from the 15th century, it’s the world’s largest and oldest covered market. With more than 4,000 shops, you can pick up anything from hand-crafted jewellery to hammam supplies.
The scent of the Egyptian Bazaar is unmistakable. Follow your nose for freshly ground coffee and heaps of multicoloured herbs and spices. And don’t forget to try the dried fruit – Turkey is the world’s largest producer and there’s plenty to choose from.
Treasure hunters should head to Cukurcuma quarter, home to around 150 antique shops. Here you can chat with friendly shop owners and pick up vintage toys or Ottoman-style jewellery and accessories.
Upmarket malls
İstanbul has a staggering 120 shopping malls. They all come with air conditioning, parking spaces and disabled facilities. They’re a shopper’s paradise, with luxury brands, clothing, jewellery and electronics, often at great prices.
With food courts and entertainment options, including theme parks, kids’ attractions and cinemas, malls are a day out in themselves. Optimum Outlet Mall features an ice rink, Forum İstanbul is home to the İstanbul Sea Life Aquarium and the Mall of İstanbul has its own hotel.
Shopping avenues
Taksim is İstanbul’s most cosmopolitan address, and on İstiklal Street you’ll find many big brands. There are also some pretty, neoclassical arcades with a variety of independent boutiques. Browse anything from vintage clothing to handmade ceramics.
One of the most stylish areas of the city, Nişantaşi, combines luxury with an authentic vibe. Explore fashion houses, art galleries and the city’s most exclusive shopping avenue, Abdi İpekçi Street. It’s is the spot for international luxury brands.
Bağdat Avenue is the main shopping street on the city’s Asian side. Here you’ll find well-known fashion brands, restaurants and cafés. Plus, the bars and pubs make it a lively spot in the evenings too.
Feed your soul
Turkish cuisine isn’t all kebabs and baklava, much-loved as these specialities are. The country has a huge gastronomic heritage influenced by the meeting of two continents. And İstanbul is the melting pot.
Fine dining
Today in İstanbul, many fine dining restaurants are inspired by the city’s heritage. They offer new versions of traditional recipes on their tasting menus. Expect unexpected taste combinations like yoghurt in soups and sour cherries in stuffed vine leaves.
Street food
Follow your nose for the city’s favourite street foods – roasted Kestane (chestnuts) or Leblebi (roasted chickpeas) in winter, corn in summer. And make sure to try the brightly coloured pickles, served on street corners with piles of rice and chickpeas. The simit (sesame bread) and all kinds of pasties are great on the go too. Or tuck into some speciality mussels – deep-fried or stuffed.
Workingmen’s eats
Esnaf lokantaları – or workingmen’s eats – are a centuries-old Turkish tradition. These places were set up to serve lunch for local workers and do dozens of daily-cooked homemade dishes. Try flavoursome soups, stuffed vegetables and rich stews served with buttery rice or earthy bulgur.
Something sweet
Another age-old institution is the muhallebiciler, or pudding shop. Traditionally these would serve milk puddings, but today you can pick up chicken soup, rice pilaf or flaky pastry böreks. And, of course, the tea is always good.
Confectionery also holds a firm place in Turkey’s culinary history. Ottoman akide sekeri (handmade rock candies) were invented in the 16th century and come in a rainbow of colours and flavours. Traditional serbet (sherbet) – a refreshing drink made from fruits and flower petals – is a staple. And you’ll find Turkish delight in every bazaar and tourist shop.
Take me there
If you can’t wait to explore the sights, sounds and smells of İstanbul, you’ll be pleased to hear you don’t need an entry visa. But you do need to fill in this form no more than 72 hours before travel. Make sure you check out our latest deals first.
