Istanbul Turkey

Istanbul
City in Turkey

Istanbul is the city in Turkey. It is located both in Asia and Europe continent. Istanbul is the world's 15th largest city and the largest city in Europe.

Istanbul province is divided into 39 districts, having a total of 936 neighborhoods.

How to Reach Istanbul

Istanbul Airport (IATA code-IST) is the main international airport serving Istanbul.
Find a cheap flight from below. This is my favorite search engines because it search websites and airlines around the world. Enter your depart and return date. If one way then cross the return date.

From airport, you can go to hotel by booking online.

* Istanbul New Airport to hotel Private Transfer  for 1 person, or any chosen number of person per Group up to 7.

* Sabiha Gokcen Airport to hotel private transfer for 1 person or per group from 3 to 7 person, from 5 to 20 person.

* Ataturk Airport to hotel private transfer for per group from 1 to 4 person.

Hotels in Istanbul

You can book your hotel from below as I use it all the time. It compare Booking.com, Trip Advisor and other sites and find a budget or luxury hotel at the best price. Just enter your check in and check out date and click on search.

Transportation in Istanbul

There are many ways you can transport in Istanbul. You can rent for full day or specific hours a Private Car with Driver for group up to 8 person.

You can travel by Hop-on, Hop-off bus, open rooftop bus. It travels a certain 2 different roots and stops at the different sights. You can drop off and visit the sight, then by another bus you can go to the next destination.
* Classic Ticket: 1-day unlimited ride cost 50 euro ($58.54) for adult. 28 euro ($32.79) for child age 5-12. 117 euro ($136.99) for Family (2 adults + 2 children age 5-12). Extra you will get Miniaturk entry ticket and Naval Museum entry ticket.
* Premium ticket: 2-day unlimited ride cost 61 euro ($71.42) for adult. 33 euro ($38.64) for child age 5-12. 144 euro ($168.61) for Family (2 adults + 2 children age 5-12). Extra you will get Miniaturk entry ticket and Naval Museum entry ticket.
* Deluxe Ticket: 3-day unlimited ride cost 67 euro ($78.45) for adult. 36 euro ($42.15) for child age 5-12. 159 euro ($186.17) for Family (2 adults + 2 children age 5-12). Extra you will get Miniaturk entry ticket and Naval Museum entry ticket.
You can buy Big Bus ticket from any stopage or Buy online and skip the line with hassle.

On the other hand, for the cheapest way, you can travel by public transport. But remember that, only for public transport, there is no card in Istanbul for unlimited day wise. To minimize your transport cost you can buy IstanbulKar for all public transports in Istanbul.

IstanbulKart:
You can buy IstanbulKart from any stoppage or airport. You will see Yellow and Blue color vending machine. Use yellow machine to purchase. Card price is 6 Lira ($0.76) without any balance. Now you have to load money (5-10-20-50-100 Lira notes) from this yellow machine. Each time you ride on the public transport, you have to punch the card on the machine in the transport. Each ride cost 3.5 Lira ($0.44), which is lower than individual ticket. At the end of Istanbul travel, If you have excessive balance During return, then use blue machine. Remember that, blue machine returns only 20 Lira note and maximum 3X20 (60) Lira. So, load little amount money each time, so that, card remains not more than 60 Lira during returns.

Tourist Places in Istanbul

I have described 87 Best Places to Visit in Istanbul. Those are Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul. Among them some are Must-Visit Attractions in Istanbul. Also described The Best Things to Do in Istanbul and Fun Things to Do in Istanbul.

So that you can able to know the Famous Istanbul Tourist sights and Attractions and make your itinerary for Istanbul Attractions & Sightseeing.

You need approximately USD 155 to visit all the places listed below except bath and spa + Food cost + Transport cost + Accommodation cost.

To minimize your sightseeing cost, you can buy Istanbul Tourist Pass. It includes 30 attractions and services.
* 2-Day Pass: 95 euro ($11.97) for adult. 45 euros for child ($5.67).
* 3-Day Pass: 115 euro ($14.49) for adult. 55 euros for child ($6.93).
* 5-Day Pass: 135 euro ($17.01) for adult. 65 euros for child ($8.19).
* 7-Day Pass: 145 euro ($18.27) for adult. 75 euros for child ($9.45).
Online Ticket: Buy online and skip the line for Istanbul City Tourist Pass.

Day-1:

Istanbul Railway Museum

Museum

Visiting Time: Tuesday to Saturday - 9 AM to 5 PM.
Entry Fee: Free.
How to go: It is located inside the Marmaray Sirkeci Istasyonu Train Station.

Hodjapasha

Cultural Center

Many Dance shows are held at this place.
Shows cost:
Whirling Dervishes Live Show + Exhibition: 60 minutes show cost $33.33.
Rhythm of the Dance Show: 65 minutes show cost $33.33.
VR Dervish Exprience: 56 minutes show cost $8.
How to go: It is located about 70 meters from Istanbul Railways Museum towards southwest at Hoca Pasa, Hoca Pasa Mahallesi Ankara Caddesi, Hocapasa Hamamı Sk. No-3.

Online Ticket: Buy online and skip the line for The Whirling Dervishes Show at the HodjaPasha Culture Center with complementary drinks.

Gulhane Park

Park

How to go: Park is located southeast side of Marmaray Sirkeci Istasyonu Train Station at Sultan Ahmet Mh, Torun Sk. No-19 in Eminonu district.

Istanbul Archaeological Museum

Museum

The Istanbul Archaeology Museums consists of three museums

1. Archaeological Museum (in the main building)
2. Museum of the Ancient Orient
3. Tiled Pavilion Museum

Visiting Time: April to September - 9 Am to 8 pm.  October and march - 9 am to 6 pm. Monday remains closed.
Entry Fee: 50 Lira ($6.32). Free for child age below 8.
How to go: It is located near Gulhane Park.

Tiled Pavilion Museum

Museum

Also called Glazed Kiosk was built by the Ottoman sultan Mehmed II in 1472 as a pleasure palace.
It was opened to the public as a museum in 1953.
Visiting Time: Tuesday to Sunday - 9 AM to 5 PM. Monday remains closed.
Entry Fee: Entry fee with Archaeological Museum.
How to go: Near Istanbul Archaeological at Cankurtaran, Osman Hamdibey Yokusu.

The Museum of the Ancient Orient

Museum

It is one of the 3 archaeology museums.
Entry Fee: Entry fee with Archaeological Museum.

Topkapi Palace Museum

Palace

Topkapi Palace construction started in 1459 by Sultan Mehmed II.
In 1856, Sultan Abdulmejid I moved the court to Dolmabahçe Palace. Only the imperial treasury, library and mint remains at Topkapi Palace.
On April 3, 1924, Turkey government transformed Topkapi into a museum.
Visiting Time: 9 AM to 6 PM. Tuesday remains closed.
Entry Fee: 100 Lira ($12.64). Harem rooms cost additional 70 Lira ($8.85).
How to go: It is located near Archaeological Museum.
Packages: 7 hours guided tour with hotel pick up and drop by air-conditioned vehicle and entrace ticket for the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, The Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar.

Day-2:

Hagia Irene

Museum

It was built as a church in 337 AD by Roman emperor Constantine I. Emperor Justinian I had the church rebuilt in 548 after burned.
Since 1980, It has been using as a concert hall.
Museum Visiting Time: Wednesday to Monday - 9 AM to 5 PM. Tuesday remains closed.
Entry Fee: 60 Lira ($7.59).
How to go: It is located about 150 meters from Topkapi Palace towards southwest at Topkapi Sarayi No-1.

Sogukcesme Sokagi

Street

How to go: The small street from southwest end of Gülhane Park (north end of street) to Hagia Sophia (south end of street) contains historic houses.

Hagia Sophia

Mosque

Built as a church construction started on 15 February 360 AD by Emperor Constantius II.
After burned the Church, Theodosius II inaugurated the 2nd church at the same place on 10 October 415 AD. It was burnt to the ground on 13–14 January 532 AD.
In 532, the construction of third and current structure of the church was started by Emperor Justinian I and inaugurated on 27 December 537 AD.
It repaired several times due to fire and earthquake. Constantinople (the capital city of the different Empire) fell to the attacking Ottoman forces on 29 May 1453. Mehmed attended the first Friday prayer in the mosque on 1 June 1453 and ordered to convert Hagia Sofia into Mosque. The mosque renovated different times.
In 1935, transformed the mosque into a museum by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first Turkish President.
Turkish Government tried to convert it mosque again. On 1 July 2016, Muslim prayers were held again in the Hagia Sophia. On 10 July 2020, the Council of Ministers declared the Hagia Sophia can be used only as a mosque and not for any other purpose.
How to go: It is located southwest side of Hagia Irene.

Packages: 

* Buy online for Hagia Sophia Entry with Guided Tour.

* 7 hours guided tour with hotel pick up and drop by air-conditioned vehicle and entrace ticket for the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, The Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar.

Fountain of Ahmed III

Fountain

It was built in 1728 by Ottoman Sultan Ahmed III.
How to go: It is located at the square of Hagia Sophia mosque.

Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamam

Spa

It was built between 1556-1557 AD by Hurrem Sultan Roxelana, the wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Now it is using as a spa.
Cost:
ASL-I HAMAM: 55 euros ($64.81) for 30 minutes. It includes Entrance to hamam + Traditional body scrubbing in the warmest quarter + Relaxing bubble wash ritual on the warm marble stone.
PIR-Ü PAK: 80 euros ($94.27) for 45 minutes. It inlcudes ASL-I HAMAM + Full body bubble massage, head and neck massage.
KEYF-I HAMAM: 120 euros ($141.40) for 60 minutes. It includes PIR-Ü PAK + Judas tree scent moisturizing and firming full body clay mask.
ZEVK-I SEFA: 135 euros ($159.08) for 80 minutes. It includes PIR-Ü PAK + Judas tree scent oil Aromatherapy Massage at the pirate massage room.
AB-I HAYAT: 185 euros ($218) for 110 minutes. It includes KEYF-I HAMAM + Judas tree scent oil Aromatherapy Massage at the pirate massage room + Face massage and face mask at the private room + Judas tree scent oil foot massage at the private room + Fresh fruits served on a plate + Private changing room + Farewell gift.
How to go: It is located south side of Hagia Sophia at Ayasofya Meydani No-2.

Basilica Cistern

Church

It was built between the 3rd and 4th centuries and reconstucted in 476 AD.
How to go: It is located about 150 metres from Hagia Sophia towards southwest at Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3.

Sultanahmet Square

Square

Also called Hippodrome.
How to go: About 200 meters from Hagia Sophia towards southwest.

Packages: 7 hours guided tour with hotel pick up and drop by air-conditioned vehicle and entrace ticket for the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, The Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar.

German Fountain

Fountain

German Emperor Wilhelm II was visited in Istanbul in 1898. The fountain was made to commemorate his visit. The construction started in 1898–1899. Marble, stone and gem parts of the fountain were constructed in Germany and transported piece by piece to Istanbul by ships. it was inaugurated on 27 January 1901.
How to go: It is located at the  the northern end of Sultanahmet Square.

The Blue Mosque

Mosque

Mainly known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque was built in 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I.
How to go: It is located at Sultanahmet Square, about 100 meters from German Fountain towards southwest.

Packages: 7 hours guided tour with hotel pick up and drop by air-conditioned vehicle and entrace ticket for the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, The Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar.

Obelisk of Theodosius

Obelisk

The Roman emperor Constantius II (337–361 AD) got 2 Obelisks in 357 AD, which was located in the great temple of Karnak and brought it in Alexandria (the second-largest city in Egypt). One Obelisk is called the Lateran Obelisk, is the largest standing ancient Egyptian obelisk in the world and tallest in Italy was installed at the Circus Maximus in Rome in 357 AD. Another Obelisk was remained in Alexandria city. Roman emperor Theodosius the Great (379-395 AD) brought it to Constantinople in 390 and installed at this place.
There is something writen on the base of the 25.6 meters tall Obelisk at the east and west side. Writen on the east side is

"DIFFICILIS QVONDAM DOMINIS PARERE SERENIS
IVSSVS ET EXTINCTIS PALMAM PORTARE TYRANNIS
OMNIA THEODOSIO CEDVNT SVBOLIQVE PERENNI
TER DENIS SIC VICTVS EGO DOMITVSQVE DIEBVS
IVDICE SVB PROCLO SVPERAS ELATVS AD AVRAS"

Translation taken from the Wikipedia is, "Though formerly I opposed resistance, I was ordered to obey the serene masters and to carry their palm, once the tyrants had been overcome. All things yield to Theodosius and to his everlasting descendants. This is true of me too – I was mastered and overcome in three times ten days and raised towards the upper air, under governor Proculus."

Writen on the west side is

"KIONA TETPA??EYPON AEI XTONI KEIMENON AXTOC
MOYNOC ANACTHCAI TEY?OCIOC BACI?EYC
TO?MHCAC ?POK?OC E?EKEK?ETO KAI TOCOC ECTH
KION HE?IOIC EN TPIAKONTA ?YO"

Translation taken from the Wikipedia is, "This column with four sides which lay on the earth, only the emperor Theodosius dared to lift again its burden; Proclos was invited to execute his order; and this great column stood up in 32 days."

How to go: It is located between the Blue Mosque and Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts at Sultanahmet Square.

Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

Museum

It has carpet, manuscript, wood, glass-metal-ceramic and ethnography sections.
Visiting Time: April to September - 9 AM to 7 PM. October to March - 10 AM o 6 PM.
Entry Fee: 50 Lira ($6.32).
How to go: Just opposite of Blue Mosque at Sultan Ahmet Square.

Online Ticket: Buy online and skip the line for Turkish & Islamic Art Museum Entry Ticket and Guided Tour.

Serpent Column

Column

26 feet high ancient bronze column. Roman Emeperor Constantine I relocated it to Constantinople in 324 AD.
How to go: Just near the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts at Sultan Ahmet Square.

Museum of Great Palace Mosaics

Museum

Visiting Time: April to September - 9 AM to 7 PM. October to March - 10 AM o 5 PM.
Entry Fee: 30 lira ($3.79).
How to go: It is about 220 meters from west end of Sultanahmet Square towards southeast at Arasta Çarsisi, Sultanahmet Mahallesi.

Day-3:

Little Hagia Sophia

Mosque

Eastern Roman emperor Justinian I built the Church between 527 and 536 AD. It was transformed into a mosque during Ottoman period between 1506 and 1513.
How to go: It is located about 450 meters from Museum of Great Palace Mosaics towards west at Kucuk Ayasofya Mahallesi, Kucuk Ayasofya Camii Sokagi No-20.

Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque

Mosque

It was completed in 1571/2 CE.
How to go: It is located 220 meters from Little Hagia Sophia towards north at Kucuk Ayasofya.

Theodosius Cistern

Cistern

It was built by Roman Emperor Theodosius II between 428 and 443 to store water supplied.
How to go: About 380 meters from Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque towards north at  Binbirdirek, Piyer Loti Cd. 25.

Cemberlitas Hamami

Bath

It was constructed 1584 by Nurbanu Sultan (1525 – 7 December 1583, wife of Selim II and mother of Murat III).
Visiting Time: 8 AM to 10 PM every day.
Services and Cost: 

Self Service Bath: 160 lira ($20.23).

Traditional Style (Entrance Included): 255 lira ($32.24), Luxury Style (Entrance Included) - 415 Lira.
Massage (Entrance Included): 290 lira ($36.67) (Indian Head Massage, Foot Massage, Shiatsu (Only For Women), Akupress (Only For Women), Thai Massage (Only For Women).
Face Mask: Women / Men - 55 Lira ($6.95).
Manicure: Women / Men - 80 Lira ($10.12).
Pedicure: Women / Men - 120 Lira ($15.17).
How to go: About 200 meters from Theodosius Cistern towards north at Mollafenari, Vezirhan Cd. No-8.

Online Ticket: Buy online and skip the line for Historical Turkish Bath Experience.

Column of Constantine

Monument

Built for Roman emperor Constantine I in 338 AD.
How to go: It is located near Çemberlitas Hamami.

Grand Bazaar

Market

It is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. it was listed No.1 among the world's most-visited tourist attractions in 2014.
How to go: About 250 meters from Column of Constantine towards north at Beyazit, Kalpakçilar Cd. No-22.

Packages: 7 hours guided tour with hotel pick up and drop by air-conditioned vehicle and entrace ticket for the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, The Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar.

Beyazid Mosque

Mosque

Built in 1506 by Sultan Bayezid II.
How to go: About 200 meters from Grand Bazaar towards west at Beyazit Square.

Laleli Mosque

Mosque

The Laleli Mosque was built in 1763 by Sultan Mustafa III.
How to go: About 650 meters from Beyazid Mosque towards west at Kemal Pasa, Ordu Cd.

Sehzade Mosque

Mosque

Built in 1548 by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent to comemorate his son Sehzade Mehmed, who died in 1543.
How to go: About 450 meters from Laleli Mosque towards north at Kalenderhane, Sehzadebasi Cd. No-44.

Fatih Mosque

Mosque

The mosque was built in 1463 by Fatih Sultan Mehmed and rebuilt in 1771.
How to go: About 800 meters from Sehzade Mosque towards west.

Zeyrek Mosque

Mosque

The first church was built in 1124 by Empress Irene of Hungary. The building was converted into mosque by ottoman around 1453. It the second largest mosque after Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.
How to go: It is located about 650 meters from Fatih Mosque towards eas at Ibadethane Sk. No-2.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Mosque

It was built in 1557 by Suleiman the Magnificent.
How to go: It is located 600 meters from Zeyrek Mosque towards southeast at Süleymaniye Mah, Prof. Siddik Sami Onar Cd. No-1.

Suleymaniye Hamam

Bath

It was built in 1557 for Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent.
Family Visiting Time: 10 AM to 10 PM every day. Last Entry 8 PM.
Women Visiting Time: Every Sunday - 7 AM to 9 PM.
Men Visiting Time: 7 AM to 9 PM everyday Except on Sunday.
Cost: 40 Euros ($5.06) per person 60 to 90 minutes (Washing, Peeling and soap massage, Lockable changing rooms, Towel (pestamal) wrap for men, Bra & Shorts for women, Slippers (takunya).
How to go: Besides Suleymaniye Mosque at Mimar Sinan Caddesi No-20.

Rustem Pasha Mosque

Mosque

Completed in around 1563 for memorial of  Rüstem Pasha (the husband of one of the daughters of Suleiman the Magnificent).
How to go: About 500 meters from Suleymaniye Mosque towards east at Rüstem Pasa, Hasircilar Cd. No-62.

Misir Carsisi

Market

Spice Market in Istanbul.
How to go: It is located about 160 meters from Rüstem Pasha Mosque towards southeast at Rüstem Pasa, Erzak Ambari Sok. No-92.

New Mosque

Mosque

The construction of the mosque began in 1597 by Safiye Sultan (the wife of Sultan Murad III). The mosque was completed 1665.
How to go: It is located at east site of Misir Carsisi at Rustem Pasa, Yeni Cami Cd. No-3.

Galata Bridge

Bridge

490 meters long bridge over the Golden Horn.
The first bridge was built in 1845 and used for 18 years. The second bridge was built in 1863. For the third time bridge was replaced in 1875. The bridge replaced fourth time in 1912 and badly damaged by fire. And finally fifth and current bridge was made in December 1994.
How to go: It is located north side of near new mosque.

Day-4:

Istanbul Aquarium

Aquarium

Visiting Time: 10 AM to 7 PM every day.
Entry Fee: 125 Lira ($15.81) for adult. 90 Lira ($11.38) for child age 2-12, student, teacher, senior and disabled. Free for child age 0-2.
How to go: It is located is located at the Florya neighborhood of Bakirkoy district at Senlikkoy, Florya Caddesi, Yesilkoy Halkali Cd. No-93. They have free Shuttle service from Sirkeci Train Station, Sultanahmet and Taksim Square. If you must have the aquarium ticket. You can buy ticket from Hop-on Hop-off at the departure point.

Day-5:

Yedikule Dungeons Museum

Fort Museum

Also known as Yedikule Fortress or Fortress of Seven Towers was built in 1458 as the official treasury by Mehmed II. Later it was used as  used as a state prison.
Visiting Time: Monday to Saturday - 8.30 AM to 6 PM.
Museum Entry Fee: 5 Lira ($0.63).
How to go: From Sirkeci Station in Fatih and take the train to Halkali. Yedikule is on the way of Halkali. Buses also go from Eminonu to Yedikule at Yedikule, Yedikule Meydani Sk. No-9.

Day-6:

Panorama 1453 History Museum

Museum

Constantinople was the capital city of the Roman Empire (330–395), the Byzantine Empire (1204–1261) and the Ottoman Empire (1453–1923). On 29 May 1453, Ottoman Sultan Mehmed attack the capital, breached the walls and won the battle. The museum exhibits 360° painting of the battle field of that time, how the walls were breached. It gives the visitor the impression that they are standing in the middle of the battle. Also sound effects of guns firing, soldiers shouting and a military band playing add to make it real battle.
Visiting Time: 8 AM to 6 PM every day.
Entry Fee: 20 Lira ($2.53).
How to go: It is located at Merkez Efendi Mahallesi, Topkapi Kultur Park Ici Yolu. There are regular buses which run to Topkapi from Eminonu and Sultanahmet.

Mihrimah Sultan Mosque

Mosque

The Mihrimah Sultan Mosque was built between 1543-44 by Mihrimah Sultan, daughter of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
How to go: About 1.7 km from Panorama 1453 History Museum towards Northeast road at Karagumruk.

Chora Museum

Museum

Originally built as Chora Church in the early 4th century. In 1511, the church was converted into mosque. In 1945, the building was designated a museum and opened to the public in 1958.
Visiting Time: 9 AM to 7 PM every day.
Entry Fee: 65 Liras ($8.22).
How to go: About 300 meters from Mihrimah Sultan Mosque towards northeast at Dervisali, Kariye Cami Sk. No-18. Take the tram from Sultanahmet to Topkapi T1 or from Topkapi to Edirnekapi T4.

Palace of the Porphyrogenitus

Palace

The Palace was constructed in late 13th or early 14th centuries.
Visiting Time: 9 AM to 6 PM every day.
How to go: It is located about 260 meters from Chora Museum towards northeast at Ayvansaray.

Pammakaristos Church

Museum

The church was built between the eleventh and the twelfth centuries. The Ottoman Sultan Murad III converted the church into a mosque in 1592. It was restored in 1949 and the main building remains a mosque, the parekklesion has been a museum.
How to go: About 800 meters from Porphyrogenitus palace towards south at Balat.

Saint Stephen-Bulgarian Orthodox

Church

A wooden church was inaugurated on 9 October 1849.
How to go: It is located 380 meters from Pammakaristos Church towards northeast near Golden Horn.

Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarchate

Cathedral

One of the 14-16 autocephalous churches (the status of this church whose head bishop does not report to any higher-ranking bishop).
How to go: It is located about 350 meters from Saint Stephen-Bulgarian Orthodox towards south at Dr. Sadik Ahmet Cd. No-44.

Day-7:

Legoland

Theme park

Visiting Time: Friday to Sunday - 12 PM to 6 PM.
Entry Fee: 80 Lira ($10.12) for child for Legoland. 120 Lira ($15.17) for child for 2 attractions (Legoland + Madame Tussauds / Sea Life). 180 Lira ($22.76) for adult and 140 Lira ($17.70) for child for 3 attractions (Legoland + Madame Tussauds + Sea Life).
How to go: It is located at Forum Istanbul Alisveris Merkezi, Kocatepe Mah. Pasa Cad. 1.Kat No-54.
Attractions: Mini Land, Lego 4D Cinema, Kingdom Quest , Creative Workshop, Lego Duplo Farm, Lego Factory Tour, Merlin's Apprentice Ride, Lego racers: Build and Test, Lego Shop, Coffee Shop.

Online Ticket: Buy online and skip the line for LEGOLAND Discovery Center Entrance Ticket.

Sea Life Istanbul

Aquarium

Visiting Time: 12 PM to 6 PM every day.
Entry Fee: 99 Lira ($12.52) for Sea Life Istanbul. 150 Lira ($18.97) for Sea Life + Madame Tussauds. 180 Lira ($22.76) for Sea Life + Legoland + Madame Tussauds.
How to go: It is located near Legoland at Kocatepe Mah. Pasa Cad. 5/5.

Online Ticket: Buy online and skip the line for SEA LIFE Istanbul Entry Ticket.

Day-8:

SALT Galata

Art Institute

Visiting Time: Tuesday to Saturday - 10 AM to 8 PM. Sunday - 12 PM to 6 PM.
How to go: It is located about 280 meters from the north end of Galata Bridge towards north at Azapkapi, Bankalar Cd. No-11.

Galata Tower

Tower

219.5 feet nine-story tower was built in 1348.
How to go: About 180 meters from SALT Galata towards north at Bereketzade, Galata kulesi.

Galata Mevlevihanesi Muzesi

Museum

Visiting Time: April to September - 9 AM to 5.30 PM. October to March - 9 AM to 5 PM.
Entry Fee: 18 Lira ($2.28).
How to go: It is located about 250 meters from Galata Tower towards north at Galip Dede Cad. No-15, Tunel.

Istiklal Caddesi

Avenue

1.4 km long road is the most popular road in Istanbul.
How to go: The road start from the northwest corner of Galata Mevlevihanesi Muzesi and headed to north then turn right and headed to northwest and ends at near Republic Monument.

Istanbul Museum of Modern Art

Museum

Visiting Time: Tuesday to Sunday - 11 AM to 5 PM. Monday remains closed.
Entry Fee: 68 Lira ($8.60) for foreign adult and 35 Lira ($4.43) for Local adult. 51 Lira ($6.45) for foreign student and senior. 20 Lira ($2.53) for Local student, teacher, Retired and senior.
Free Entry: On Thursdays for residents of Turkey. On Tuesdays between 2 PM to 5 PM for 18-25 year-olds Turkey residence.
How to go: About 400 meters from Galata Mevlevihanesi Müzesi towards northwest at Asmali Mescit, Mesrutiyet Cd. No-99.

Pera Museum

Museum

Visiting Time: Tuesday - Saturday - 11 AM to 6 PM. Sunday 12 PM to 6 PM.
Entry Fee: 25 Lira ($3.16) for adult. 10 Lira ($1.26) for child age below 13, student, senior.
Free Entry: Pera Museum and Pera Film screenings are free for students on every Wednesday.
How to go: About 270 meters from Istanbul Museum of Modern Art towards north at Mesrutiyet Caddesi No-65.

Sent Antuan Kilisesi

Church

Church of St. Anthony was built in 1912.
How to go: About 170 meters from Pera Museum towards northeast at Istiklal Avenue No-171 in Beyoglu district.

Cicek Pasaji

Passage

Passage contains rows of historic cafes, wine houses and restaurants.
How to go: It is located at 250 meters from Church of St. Anthony towards north at Huseyinaga, Huseyinaga Mh Istiklal Caddesi, Sait Pasa Gc. 176/6.

Madame Tussauds Istanbul

Wax Museum

Visiting Time: 12 PM to 6 PM every day.
Entry Fee: 109 Lira ($13.78) for adult for Madame Tussauds. 150 Lira ($18.97) for Madame Tussauds +  Legoland / Sea Life. 180 Lira ($22.76) for Legoland + Madame Tussauds + Sea Life.
How to go: About 180 meters from Cicek Pasaji towards east at Huseyinaga, Grand Pera, Istiklal Cd. no-56/58.

Online Ticket: Buy online and skip the line for Madame Tussauds Entrance Ticket.

Republic Monument

Monument

36 feet high monument was built on August 8, 1928 to commemorate the formation of the Turkish Republic in 1923.
How to go: It is located at the northeast end of Istiklal Caddesi avenue at Taksim Square.

Day-9:

Miniaturk

Miniature Park

Visiting Time: 9 AM to 7 PM every day.
Entry Fee: 20 Lira ($2.53).
How to go: It is located about 4.5 km from Taksim Square towards northwest at Ornektepe, Imrahor Cd. No-7.

Packages: 4 hours guided tour with hotel pick up and drop by air-conditioned vehicle and entrance ticket for Golden Horn, Eyup, Miniaturk & Pierre Loti.

Eyup Sultan Mosque

Mosque

The mosque was constructed at this place in 1458. Due to damage Sultan Selim III rebuilt in 1800. In 1822, Mahmud II was rebuilt the eastern minaret.
How to go: It is located at Eyüp Sultan Square about 1.7 km from Miniaturk towards southwest.

Packages: 4 hours guided tour with hotel pick up and drop by air-conditioned vehicle and entrance ticket for Golden Horn, Eyup, Miniaturk & Pierre Loti.

Pierre Loti

Hill

Pierre Loti Hill is well-known for its beautiful view of Eyup Sultan Mosque. There is a restaurant up on the hill.
How to go: You can go up on the hill by 15 minutes walk or cable car located behind the mosque. Cable car runs from 8 AM to 11 PM. It cost 4 Lira ($0.5) one way.

Packages: 4 hours guided tour with hotel pick up and drop by air-conditioned vehicle and entrance ticket for Golden Horn, Eyup, Miniaturk & Pierre Loti.

Rahmi M. Koc Museum

Vehicle Museum

Visiting Time: Tuesday to Friday - 9.30 AM to 7 PM. Saturday and Sunday - 9.30 AM to 6 PM.
Entry Fee: 28 Lira ($3.54) for adult. 12 Lira ($1.52) for student.
Submarine Fee: 14 Lira ($1.77) for adult and 10 Lira ($1.26) for student.
Boat Tour: 14 Lira ($1.77) for adult and 10 Lira ($1.26) for student.
How to go: It is located about 1.4 km from Eyub Sultan Mosque towards southeast at Piri Pasa, Haskoy Cd. No-5 D:No-5.

Day-10:

Dolmabahce Mosque

Mosque

It was built in 1855.
How to go: About 850 meters from Taksim Square towards southeast at Meclis-i Mebusan Cd. No-34.

Dolmabahce Clock Tower

Clock Tower

The clock tower was built in 1895.
How to go: It is located north side of Dolmabahce Mosque.

Dolmabahce Palace

Palace

The Palace was built between 1843 and 1856 by Sultan Abdulmecid I. It was home to six Sultans.
Visiting Time: 9 AM to 4 PM.
Entry Fee: 120 Lira ($15.17) for combined ticket. 90 Lira ($11.38) (Dolmabahce Palace Offices & Reception Rooms). Extra 60 Lira ($7.59) to visit Harem (Privy Chambers). 30 Lira ($3.79) for Museum of Palace Collections.
How to go: It is located 300 meters from Dolmabahce Clock Tower towards east.
Online Ticket: Buy online and skip the line for Dolmabahce Palace Ticket and Audio Guide.

Day-11:

Maritime Museum

Museum

Also called Naval Museum.
Visiting Time: Tuesday to Sunday 9 AM to 5 PM.
Entry Fee: 12 Lira ($1.52).
How to go: About 350 meters from Dolmabahçe Palace towards east.

Ihlamur Pavilion

Pavillion

It was built in 1839-1860 by Sultan Abdülmecid I.
How to go: About 1 km north from Maritime Museum at Tesvikiye.

Yildiz Palace

Palace

It was built in 1880 by Sultan Abdulhamid II.
Visiting Time: 9 AM to 5 PM. Monday remains closed.
Entry Fee: 20 Lira ($2.53) for Shale Pavilion. 30 Lira ($3.79) Yildiz Tile and Porcelain Factory.
How to go: About 1 km from Ihlamur Pavilion towards east at Yildiz Park.
Inside the Premises: Sale Kiosk, Malta Kiosk, Cadir Kiosk, Yildiz Theatre and Opera House, Yildiz Palace Museum, Imperial Porcelain Factory.

Day-12:

Ciragan Palace

Palace

The palace was built between 1863 and 1867 is now a five-star hotel. It was ranked 14th most explensive hotel in 2012.
How to go:  It is located at the south end of Yildiz park.

Buyuk Mecidiye Mosque

Mosque

Also called Ortakoy Mosque was built in 1856 on the site of a previous mosque which was built in 1720.
How to go: It is located about 850 meters from Ciragan Palace towards northeast near 15 July Martyrs Bridge.

15 July Martyrs Bridge

Bridge

Also known as Bosphorus Bridge is a 1560 meters long suspension bridge was built on 1 June 1973. It connects Europe and Asia.
The annual Intercontinental Istanbul Eurasia Marathon held on every October and crosses the bridge on its way from Asia to Europe.
How to go: The north end of the bridge is about 230 meters from Buyuk Mecidiye Mosque.

Beylerbeyi Palace

Palace

Beylerbeyi Palace was built in 1861-1865 by Sultan Abdulaziz.
Visiting Time: 9 AM to 5 PM. Monday remains closed.
Entry Fee: 50 Lira ($6.32).
How to go: It is located south end of 15 July Martyrs Bridge in the Beylerbeyi neighbourhood of Uskudar district.

Day-13:

Camlica Mosque

Mosque

The largest mosque in Turkey was built on 7 March 2019.
How to go: About 2.8 km from Beylerbeyi Palace towards southeast at Ferah, Ferah Yolu Sk. No-87.

Kucuk Camlica TV Radio Tower

Tower

1199.1 feet Telecommunications tower with observation decks and restaurants.
How to go: It is located south side of Camlica Mosque on Camlica Hill at 268 meters above sea level.

Maiden's Tower

Tower

Also known as Kizkulesi Tower on a small island. A wooden tower protected by a stone wall was built by Byzantine Emperor Alexius Comnenus in 1110. The tower was restored several times and finally restored in 1998 for the James Bond movies "The world is not enough". The tower was converted into a restaurant on the first floor and a bar at the top of the tower. It is very popular place especially at night.
Visiting Time: Monday tower remains closed.
How to go: Shuttle boats going to the tower at certain times from Kabatas neighborhood and from Salacak neighborhood.

Day-14:

Istanbul Toy Museum

Museum

Visiting Time: Tuesday to Friday - 9.30 AM to 6 PM. Saturday and Sunday - 9.30 AM to 7 PM.
Entry Fee: 10 Lira ($1.26) for adult and 7 Lira ($0.89) for child.
How to go: By tram from Sultanahmet to Eminonu. Then by ferry from Eminonu to Kadikoy. Then by bus GZ1 or GZ2 from Kadikoy to Goztepe and get off "Tutuncu Mehmet Efendi Camii" stop. toy museum is about 7 minutes walk from the stop at Omer Pasa Cad. Dr. Zeki Zeren Sok. No-15.

Bagdat Avenue

Street

About 14 km long northwest-southeast street.
How to go: important part of the street is 6 km which starts from Kiziltoprak (northwest end) to Bostanci (southeast end).

Day-15: Princes Islands
The nine small islands are called the Princes Islands. The four larger islands are Kinaliada, Burgaz, Heybeliada and Buyukada. You can reach there by ferry from Sirkeci coast, Eminonu, Kabatas, Kadikoy or Bostanci.

Online Ticket: By online ticket and skip the line for Round-Trip Ferry Tickets to Princes Islands.

Kinaliada

Island

In the island you can visit beaches, three large hills - Cinar Hill, Tesvikiye Hill and Hristo Peak. Kinaliada Mosque was built in 1964. Surp Krikor Lusavoric Ermeni Kilisesi Church, Kinali Ada Kilisesi Church and Hiristos Greek Monastery.
How to go: By ferry from Sirkeci coast, Eminonu, Kabatas, Kadikoy or Bostanci. Kinaliada is the first stop for ferries.

Day-16:

Burgaz Island

Island

Aya Yorgi Karibi Monastery, Aya Yani Church, Sait Faik Abasiyanik Museum.
How to go: It is located south of Kinaliada island and accessible by ferry.

Heybeliada

Island

There are no motor vehicles. you can rent bicycle or orse-drawn carriage. You can visit Aya Nikola Greek Orthodox Church at the east end.
How to go: It is located southeast side of Burgaz Island and accessible by ferry.

Day-17:

Buyukada

Island

One of the largest Princes Islands. It contains few tiny beaches, two hills.
How to go: It is located southeast side of Heybeliada Island and accessible by ferry.
Packages: 9 hours guided tour with hotel pick up and drop by air-conditioned vehicle and entrace ticket with lunch for Buyukada, one of the largest Princes Islands.

Day-18:

Kucuksu Palace

Palace

The palace was built in 1857 by Sultan Abd-ul-Mejid I. The palace has been open to the public as a museum.
The pavilion appeared in the James Bond film "The World Is Not Enough" and Bollywood film "Ek Tha Tiger".
Visiting Time: 9.30 AM to 4.30 PM.
Entry Fee: 5 Lira ($0.63).
How to go: It is located about 5.5 km from Beylerbeyi Palace towards north at Goksu, Kucuksu Cd. No-12.

Anadolu Hisari

Castle

Anatolian Castle was built in 1394 by Sultan Bayezid I.
Visiting Time: Thursday to Tuesday - 9 AM to 7 PM. Wednesday remains closed.
Entry Fee: 25 Lira ($3.16).
How to go: About 500 meters from Kucuksu Palace towards north.

Rumeli Hisari

Castle

Rumeli Hisari construction began on April 15, 1452
Visiting Time: Thursday to Tuesday - 9 AM to 4.30 PM. Wednesday remains closed.
Entry Fee: 25 Lira ($3.16).
How to go: Rumeli Hisari is located just opposite bank of Bosphorus from Anadolu Hisari. By bus passing Rumeli Hisari bus station. Get off at Rumeli Hisari bus stop. The castle is just next to the bus stop.

Sakip Sabanci Muzesi

Museum

Visiting Time: Tuesday to Sunday - 10 AM to 6 PM. Monday remains closed.
Entry Fee: 40 Lira ($5.06) for adult. 25 Lira ($3.16) for teacher, student age above 14, senior age 60 or above. Free for child age below 14.
How to go: About 2.4 km from Rumeli Hisari castle towards north. By bus 59RH from Rumeli Hisari to Istinye or Haciosman Metro Station.

Emirgan Park

Park

Largest public parks in Istanbul covers an area of 117 acres. Every April, during Tulip festival, the park looks beautiful.
Visiting Time: 6 AM to 10 PM every day.
Entry Fee: Free.
How to go: It is located north side of Sakip Sabanci Muzesi.
Inside the Premises: Yellow Pavllion, Pink Pavilion, White Pavilion.

Day-19:

Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge

Bridge

2,164 meter long suspension bridge over the Bosphorus strait. Construction started in 2013 and opened on 26th August 2016. It is the 3rd tallest bridge in the world at height 322 meters. 59 meters wide bridge is also one the widest suspension bridge in the world. It connected Poyrazkoy village in Beykoz district (Asia Side) and Garipce village in Sariyer district (European side). Night view lightings are nice.
How to go: Best way to go there by metro to Garipce village in Sariyer district.

Things to Do in Istanbul

Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul

Cruise

They have different types of packages mainly on cruise.
Cost:
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: Bosphorus Dinner with Night Show from 8:30 PM to 11:45 PM. Cost 35 Euros ($41.10).
Bosphorus Sunset Cruise: 2.5 hours evenining Cruise cost 50 Euro ($58.71).
Istanbul Lunch Cruise: 4 hours lunch cruise cost 35 Euro ($41.10).
Princes' Islands Tour and Istanbul old city tour: Full day tour from 9 AM to 5 PM with lunch cost 45 euro ($52.84).
How to go: You can book directly to their address about 200 meters from Hagia Sophia towards west at Alemdar Mah. Ticarethane Sok.Hakki Bey Ishani No-5/3 Sultanahmet. Or book online from below to skip the line.

* Istanbul Dinner Cruise on the Bosphorus.

* Bosphorus Cruise from Eminonu Pier with Audio App.

* Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht.

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