Top 6 Things To Do in Istanbul in 2021
In no particular order, here are the top 15 things to do in Istanbul. We picked these because we believe they are worth seeing or experiencing, not because they are popular. As a result, we didn’t include the world-famous Blue Mosque but instead suggested something new. We’d also want to call your attention to several hidden treasures that are sometimes missed while planning the vacation on behalf of your turkey visa. Enjoy!
1. Hagia Sophia
This magnificent church-turned-mosque-turned-museum and turned mosque again. After years of renovation work, the Hagia Sophia is now free of the framework, allowing you to appreciate its beauty fully.
Standing in the centre of the vast nave, 65 metres over your head, under the 43-meter-wide dome, defies belief — and physics, for that matter. Climb the spiral staircase to the gallery, where you may admire the magnificent Byzantine mosaics, including Christ flanked by Emperor Constantine IX and his wife, Empress Zoe.
2. Whirling Dervishes
The Whirling Dervishes may appear to be a tourist attraction, but they are Mevlana’s disciples performing a devotional session. Through a prayer-induced trance, the Dervishes become a bridge between God and people throughout the rite.
Despite being high on many visitors’ to-do lists in Istanbul, it is sometimes skipped since seats are sold out. Make sure you don’t make the same mistake and book your tickets advanced online.
3. Bosphorus Cruise
A cruise on the Bosphorus is a must-do when visiting Istanbul. Not only does it offer a great perspective of the city, but both the European and Asian sides of the famed canal have plenty to offer in the shape of century-old palaces and castles.
You may go on a short cruise (to the second suspension bridge and back), a long cruise (to the Black Sea and back), or a sunset trip in the summer.
My favourite was the latter, but it became a victim of its success. I like to do the full Bosphorus day tour these days, or the shorter version if you’re short on time.
4. Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Saray) is unquestionably a must-see attraction in Istanbul. For over half a century, generations of sultans called this complex of kiosks and pavilions, surrounded by four beautiful green courtyards, home.
The Harem, an embellished ‘cage’ of the sultan’s ladies, the treasury holding the royal jewels (including the renowned Topkapi dagger), and the weapon’s chamber highlighting the Ottoman’s superb workmanship even when it comes to forging swords and bows are all top attractions at Topkapi Palace.
Also, don’t miss the beautiful views of the Sea of Marmara, Bosphorus, and Golden Horn if you go all the way to the finish.
5. Basilica Cistern
Istanbul is exciting on the surface and below ground, with the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan). This magnificent underground cistern, formerly used to transport drinking water from current-day Bulgaria to Istanbul through canals, is a superb example of Byzantine engineering.
Some find it lovely, but others find it slightly terrifying because of the lowered light and classical music playing in the background together with the sound of dripping water.
Watch the fish move between the 336 columns that support the ceiling as you stroll the pathways. The Medusa head positioned upside down at the base of one of the columns may be seen if you go all the way to the end.
7. Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is a fantastic place to go bargain hunting. Despite being almost 500 years old, it is still one of the world’s largest covered bazaars. There are 5000 stores, 60 restaurants, 18 fountains, 12 mosques, and even a school on its 60 streets.
This is not a tourist trap, contrary to popular belief. Locals buy here every day, and they’re likely to be greater bargainers than you. Leather, rugs, ceramic, souvenirs, and jewellery are all popular items in the market.
It’s difficult not to get lost in this turmoil, so keep track of where you came from before roaming about.
This is a complete list of things to do in Istanbul to make the most of your visit. Istanbul is the only province in the world that can claim to be the entrance to Europe and Asia. So, get your e-visa for Turkey and start exploring Istanbul right now.
