Top 5 Things to See and Do in Istanbul
There are few cities on earth that straddle two continents — and none that do it with quite the same poetry as Istanbul. The meeting point of East and West, this ancient capital of empires is a feast for the senses: the scent of roasted chestnuts and strong Turkish coffee, the echo of the call to prayer, the glitter of the Bosphorus at sunset.
If you’re planning a few days in Istanbul, here are my top five experiences — the ones that capture the city’s soul.
1. Step into Serenity at the Süleymaniye Mosque
While the Blue Mosque gets most of the attention, Süleymaniye Mosque offers a quieter, more contemplative experience. Perched on one of Istanbul’s seven hills, it rewards visitors with panoramic views over the Golden Horn. Designed by the legendary Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century, the mosque combines grandeur and simplicity in perfect harmony.
Come early in the morning or late afternoon before sunset — when the light softens the stone and the courtyard fills with the sound of pigeons instead of crowds.
2. Take a Guided Tour of the Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia
These two icons face each other like time itself in dialogue. The Blue Mosque, with its cascading domes and intricate Iznik tiles, remains one of the most beautiful expressions of Ottoman architecture. Across Sultanahmet Square, Hagia Sophia tells an even older story — from Byzantine basilica to Ottoman mosque to museum, and now once again a working mosque.
A guided tour is well worth it here. Hearing the layered history — of emperors, sultans, and shifting faiths — brings the stones to life. We went with this tour booked through Get Your Guide and couldn’t have been happier with our experience.
3. Sail the Bosphorus to the Prince’s Islands
For a glimpse of daily life and a breath of sea air, hop aboard one of Istanbul’s public ferries. The Bosphorus crossings are not just transport — they’re part of the city’s rhythm. Seagulls follow in the wake, tea is served in tulip-shaped glasses, and the skyline unfolds in slow motion.
If you have time, continue all the way to the Prince’s Islands, where cars are banned and time feels slower. Rent a bicycle, explore pine-scented paths, and enjoy a seafood lunch by the water before returning at sunset.
4. Walk Across the Galata Bridge at Golden Hour
There’s something magical about the Galata Bridge as the sun dips behind the domes and minarets. Fishermen line the railings, trams rattle past, and ferries glide beneath. Walk slowly from Karaköy toward Eminönü, pausing to take in the view — the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia glowing in the evening light, the Bosphorus shimmering below.
If you’re a photographer (or simply someone who loves atmosphere), this moment alone is worth the trip.
5. EAT, EAT, EAT!
No visit to Istanbul is complete without diving headfirst into its food scene. Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast — olives, cheeses, eggs, simit, and honeycomb — before sampling meze spreads in the evening.
Seek out meze restaurants (meyhane) where small plates of grilled vegetables, stuffed grape leaves, and creamy spreads are paired with raki and laughter. Don’t miss balık ekmek (fish sandwiches) near the Galata Bridge, or künefe, a sweet, cheesy dessert best enjoyed hot.
In Istanbul, eating is more than sustenance — it’s storytelling.
Final Thoughts
Istanbul is not a city you “see” — it’s a city you feel. Between the call to prayer and the clink of teacups, the grandeur of empires and the intimacy of side streets, you realize this isn’t just a place where cultures meet. It’s a place where they dance.
