Things to Do in Istanbul

Nadine Braehmer • September 23, 2024

Looking for the best things to do in Istanbul? This vibrant city offers a rich blend of history, culture, and cuisine, making it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a culture seeker, Istanbul has something for everyone.

1. Explore the Historic Heart of Istanbul
Start your journey in the Sultanahmet district, home to the iconic Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. These stunning architectural marvels showcase the city's rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. Wander through the Hippodrome and explore centuries-old stories at every turn.


2. Visit the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market
For an authentic shopping experience, dive into the bustling lanes of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest markets. With over 4,000 shops, it’s a treasure trove of textiles, jewelry, and handmade crafts. Just nearby is the aromatic Spice Market, where you can find traditional Turkish spices, sweets, and teas.


3. Take a Bosphorus Cruise
A trip to Istanbul wouldn’t be complete without a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus. As you glide between Europe and Asia, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of palaces, mansions, and mosques lining the waterfront. Don’t forget to snap a picture of the stunning Bosphorus Bridge and the Rumeli Fortress.


4. Discover Kadiköy on the Asian Side
Cross the Bosphorus to the Kadiköy district on the Asian side for a more local vibe. Stroll through its lively markets, cafés, and restaurants. Kadiköy is also a fantastic place to try a food tour, where you can taste typical Turkish dishes in lesser-known spots.


5. Book a Food Tour
Food is at the heart of Turkish culture, and no trip to Istanbul is complete without indulging in its diverse flavors. Try local favorites like kebabs, mezes, simit, and baklava. For a truly unique experience, you can book a food tour with us, where you'll explore hidden gems and taste authentic Turkish dishes in local spots. Our tour takes you through Kadiköy, giving you the chance to savor typical Turkish flavors while learning about the history and cultural significance behind each dish.
Food is at the heart of Turkish culture, and no trip to Istanbul is complete without indulging in its diverse flavors. Try local favorites like kebabs, mezes, simit, and baklava. For a unique experience, join a food tour to sample hidden gems and discover the history behind each dish.


6. Visit the Galata Tower and Istiklal Street
For a panoramic view of the city, climb the historic Galata Tower. Afterward, stroll along Istiklal Street, a lively pedestrian avenue filled with shops, cafés, and street performers. Don’t miss a stop at Taksim Square, the bustling heart of modern Istanbul.


7. Relax in a Traditional Hammam
Unwind after a day of exploring with a visit to a traditional Turkish bath, or hammam. Istanbul has several historic hammams where you can experience a soothing steam bath, followed by a revitalizing scrub and massage.

With its unique mix of East and West, ancient and modern, Istanbul is a city that never fails to amaze. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, dining, or simply soaking in the local culture, Istanbul offers endless opportunities for adventure.


Pastel de nata, bolo rei e copos de Ginjinha sob as luzes de Natal do Baixa de Lisboa
By Nadine Braehmer December 15, 2025
Descubra o lado mais doce de Lisboa: pastel de nata, bolo rei e luzes de Natal no Baixa. Viva a magia com o nosso tour gastronómico de inverno.
Pastel de nata, bolo rei y copas de Ginjinha bajo las luces navideñas del Baixa de Lisboa
By Nadine Braehmer December 15, 2025
Descubre la Lisboa más dulce: pastel de nata, bolo rei y luces navideñas en el Baixa. Vive la magia en nuestro tour gastronómico de invierno.
Pastel de nata, bolo rei, and Ginjinha served under Lisbon’s Christmas lights in Baixa
By Nadine Braehmer December 15, 2025
Taste Lisbon’s festive side — from pastel de nata to Christmas pastries, warm lights, and sweet traditions on our cozy Baixa food tour this winter.
Castanhas assadas, copos de Ginjinha e frango piri piri numa tasca acolhedora de Lisboa no inverno.
By Nadine Braehmer December 14, 2025
Descubra Lisboa no inverno: castanhas assadas, frango piri piri, Ginjinha e ruas iluminadas do Baixa no nosso tour gastronómico imperdível.
Castañas asadas, copas de Ginjinha y pollo piri piri en una tasca acogedora del Baixa de Lisboa en i
By Nadine Braehmer December 14, 2025
Descubre Lisboa en invierno: castañas asadas, pollo piri piri, Ginjinha y calles iluminadas del Baixa en nuestro delicioso tour gastronómico.
Roasted chestnuts, Ginjinha glasses, and Piri Piri chicken served in a cozy Lisbon tavern in Baixa d
By Nadine Braehmer December 14, 2025
Discover Lisbon’s cozy side this season — roasted chestnuts, Piri Piri chicken, Ginjinha, and glowing Baixa streets on our delicious winter food tour.
Vegetarische Wintergerichte in Barcelona mit gemütlichen Gràcia-Gassen und katalanischen Aromen.
By Nadine Braehmer December 12, 2025
Entdecken Sie Barcelonas beste vegetarische Winterküche, gemütliche Gràcia-Spots und authentische katalanische Aromen.
Plats végétariens d’hiver à Barcelone avec ruelles cosy de Gràcia et saveurs catalanes.
By Nadine Braehmer December 12, 2025
Découvrez les meilleurs plats végétariens d’hiver à Barcelone, les adresses cosy de Gràcia et les saveurs catalanes authentiques.
Vegetarian winter dishes in Barcelona with cozy Gràcia streets and warm Catalan flavors.
By Nadine Braehmer December 12, 2025
Discover Barcelona’s best vegetarian-friendly winter dishes, cozy Gràcia spots, and authentic Catalan flavors on a seasonal food tour.
Winterliche Gassen in Gràcia, Barcelona mit warmem Licht und gemütlichen lokalen Food-Spots.
By Nadine Braehmer December 11, 2025
Erkunden Sie Barcelona im Winter durch Gràcias warme Gassen, lokale Aromen und authentische katalanische Küche auf einer köstlichen Food Tour.
More Posts