Istanbul Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Historical Facts, Accommodation and Travel Suggestions

Istanbul is one of the most fascinating cities in the world with its history, cultural texture and unique landscapes . This unique metropolis, which connects the continents of Asia and Europe, has hosted different civilizations for centuries and attracts millions of tourists today. In this guide, we will cover every detail such as places to visit in Istanbul, misconceptions about its history, the best accommodation options and budget-friendly travel tips .

Istanbul Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Historical Facts, Accommodation and Travel

Brief Information About Istanbul

📍 Location: It is located in the northwest of Turkey, around the Bosphorus Strait, which connects the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea.

📅 History: Founded in the 7th century BC, the city became the capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.

👥 Population: Approximately 16 million (2024 data).

⏳ Ideal Travel Duration: You should allocate at least 4-5 days to fully explore Istanbul.

Istanbul Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Historical Facts, Accommodation and Travel Suggestions

1. Places to Visit and See in Istanbul

Istanbul is a city full of historical buildings, natural beauties, lively bazaars and modern living spaces . Here are the main places you must see:

📌 Historical and Cultural Places

🏰 Hagia Sophia Mosque

It was built as a church by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 537.
It was converted into a mosque by Fatih Sultan Mehmet in 1453.
It was turned into a museum in 1935, and regained its mosque status in 2020.
Entry: Free
Visiting Hours: 09:00 – 23:30

🕌 Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque)

It was built in 1616 by Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I.
It is called the "Blue Mosque" because of the blue Iznik tiles in its interior.
Entry: Free
Visiting Hours: Open to visitors except prayer hours.

🏛 Topkapi Palace

The palace where the Ottoman sultans lived for 400 years.
The Sacred Relics, Harem and Palace Kitchen sections are very interesting.
Entry Fee: 750 TL (2024)
Visiting Hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (except Tuesdays)

📌 Natural and Scenic Places

🌉 Bosphorus and Bosphorus Tour

The Bosphorus, which separates the continents of Europe and Asia, is one of the most impressive natural beauties of the city.
Bosphorus tour prices: Varies between 100 - 500 TL.
For the best views, you can go to the Ortaköy, Bebek and Rumeli Hisarı areas.

🌳 Gulhane Park

It was used as the outer garden of Topkapi Palace during the Ottoman period.
Visiting during tulip season (April-May) makes for a wonderful experience.

📌 Istanbul's Most Famous Bazaars and Shopping Spots

🏺 Grand Bazaar

Founded in 1461, it is the oldest and largest covered bazaar in the world.
It sells carpets, antiques, jewelry and souvenirs .

🛍 Spice Bazaar

Built in 1664, this bazaar is famous for its spices, Turkish delight and nuts .

2. Misconceptions About Istanbul's History

❌ Misinformation #1: Istanbul did not attract the attention of the Turks until it was conquered by the Ottomans.

✅ Fact: Before the Ottomans, the Seljuks and various Turkish principalities tried to capture Istanbul.

❌ Misinformation #2: Hagia Sophia was not used as a mosque before the Ottoman Empire.

✅ Fact: The Latins , who occupied Istanbul between 1204 and 1261, converted Hagia Sophia into a Catholic church.

❌ Misinformation #3: Istanbul has always been called "Istanbul".

✅ Fact: The city has had many names throughout history:

Byzantium (7th century BC)
Constantinople (330-1453)
Islambol (Ottoman Period)

3. Accommodation and Hotel Recommendations in Istanbul

There are accommodation options to suit every budget in Istanbul. Here are hotel suggestions and price ranges by region :

🏨 Sultanahmet – Historical Peninsula (For History Enthusiasts)

Sirkeci Mansion Hotel – 4⭐ | 3500 TL per night
White House Hotel Istanbul – 5⭐ | 5000 TL per night

🏨 Taksim – Beyoğlu (For Nightlife and Entertainment)

The Marmara Taksim – 5⭐ | 5500 TL per night
Taxim Lounge Hotel – 3⭐ | 2500 TL per night

🏨 Beşiktaş – Bosphorus View (For Luxury and View)

Çırağan Palace Kempinski – 5⭐ | 20,000 TL per night
Swissotel The Bosphorus – 5⭐ | 12,000 TL per night

📌 For those with limited budget:

Hostels and aparthotels in Sultanahmet vary between 700-1500 TL per night.

4. Transportation and Travel Tips in Istanbul

✅ Get an Istanbul Card: Valid for all public transport vehicles. (Card fee: 70 TL)

✅ Cheapest transportation: Metro, tram and buses (Single ride fee: 17.70 TL).

✅ Taxi usage: The taximeter opening fee in Istanbul is 19.17 TL.

The Best Plan for Your Istanbul Trip

📌 First Day: Sultanahmet – Hagia Sophia – Topkapi Palace – Grand Bazaar📌 Second Day: Taksim – Galata – Karakoy – Bosphorus tour📌 Third Day: Besiktas – Ortakoy – Rumeli Hisari

When you come to Istanbul , don't leave without visiting historical places, watching the Bosphorus view and tasting delicious Turkish food! 😍

Best Activities, Plans and Places to See

Istanbul is one of the most special cities in the world, offering a unique combination of history, culture, entertainment and natural beauty . This fascinating city, which has hosted many civilizations over the centuries, has countless places to explore and many activities to do. So what should you definitely do when you come to Istanbul? What plans can you make the most of your time? And which places should you not miss in this city?

In this guide, you will find all the activities Istanbul has to offer, ideal travel plans and every detail you need to have an unforgettable experience.

Istanbul Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Historical Facts, Accommodation and Travel

1. Best Activities to Do in Istanbul

Traveling in Istanbul is not limited to historical places. The city offers many different activity options such as adventure, cultural events, shopping, food and drink and nightlife . Here are the best activities you can do in Istanbul:

📌 Take a Bosphorus Tour

🌊 Why? It's a great opportunity to see the most beautiful views of Istanbul.

🚢 Options:

Short Bosphorus Tour (1-2 hours)
Long Bosphorus Tour (Full day)
Luxury Yacht Tour (Special Experience)
💰 Prices: Varies between 100 TL - 500 TL.

📌 Explore the Historical Peninsula

🏛 Places to Visit:

Hagia Sophia
Sultanahmet Mosque
Topkapi Palace
Basilica Cistern

📌 Shop at the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

🛍️ What Can You Buy?

Spices, nuts, Turkish delight
Handmade carpets and antiques
Jewellery and traditional gifts

📌 Watch the Sunset from Galata Tower

🌅 Why? One of the most beautiful panoramic views of Istanbul.

💰 Entrance Fee: 650 TL (2024)📌 Tip: You can avoid waiting in line by going early.

📌 Eat Baked Potatoes and Waffles in Ortaköy

🍽️ Taste: Ortaköy is one of the most famous places for baked potato and waffle.

📍 Location: Ortaköy Square, one of the most beautiful points of the Bosphorus.

📌 Discover Fashion and Kadıköy

🎭 Why? One of the most bohemian and art-filled districts of Istanbul.

🍽️ What to Do?

Take a walk on Moda Beach.
Go on a taste discovery at Kadıköy Bazaar.
Have a pleasant evening on the bar street.

📌 Go to the Princes' Islands

🚲 What Can You Do?

Take a bike tour in Büyükada .
Enjoy the beach in Heybeliada .
💰 Departure Fee: 80-100 TL (by ferry).

📌 Entertainment and Nightlife

🎉 Istanbul's nightlife is very active in districts such as Taksim, Beşiktaş and Kadıköy.🕺 Popular Places:

360 Istanbul (Entertainment venue with a view)
Sortie (Luxury nightclub)
Dorock XL Kadıköy (For live music lovers)

2. Istanbul Travel Plan: The Most Efficient Program

Due to the size and crowds of Istanbul , traveling without a good plan can lead to a waste of time. Here is the ideal 3-day Istanbul trip plan:

🗓 Day 1 – Historical Peninsula Exploration

Morning: Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Mosque, Basilica Cistern
Lunch: Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar
Evening: Bosphorus tour and Ortaköy tour

🗓 Day 2 – European Side and Entertainment

Morning: Galata Tower and Karaköy
Afternoon: Istiklal Avenue and Taksim tour
Evening: Nightlife in Taksim or Beşiktaş

🗓 Day 3 – Asian Side and Islands

Morning: Kadıköy and Moda
Lunch: Crossing to Büyükada and cycling tour
Evening: Beach tour on return from the islands

3. Places You Should Never Leave Without Seeing

If you come to Istanbul, you should not leave without seeing some places! Here are them:

🏰 Hagia Sophia Mosque – One of the most important historical buildings in Istanbul.

🌊 Bosphorus – The unique view where Europe and Asia meet.

🏛 Topkapi Palace – The gateway to Ottoman history.🛍 Grand Bazaar – A unique place to see the historical bazaar culture.

🌅 Galata Tower – One of the most beautiful spots to look down on Istanbul.

🚢 Princes' Islands – The best route to escape from the city.

4. Pros and Cons of Traveling to Istanbul

✅ Istanbul's Pluses

✔ Very rich in history and culture. ✔ It has magnificent structures and natural beauties. ✔ It offers many options in terms of nightlife, shopping and entertainment. ✔ It is located in both Europe and Asia, offering the opportunity to experience two different cultures.

❌ Cons of Istanbul

❌ Traffic problem: It is very busy especially in the morning and evening hours.

❌ Crowded: Istanbul is a city that attracts many tourists in every season.

❌ Expensive accommodation and food and beverage options: Prices can be high in tourist areas.

📌 Tip: If you want to have a more economical trip in Istanbul , choose the places where locals go and use public transportation!

Conclusion: Discover Everything About Istanbul!

Istanbul offers an unforgettable experience with its historical texture, cultural richness, entertainment opportunities and unique landscapes . By moving in a planned manner and visiting the right places, you can discover this fascinating city in the best way.