I admit it: Istanbul is one of my favorite places in the world. If you’ve been following my prolific Instagram (@modernjetsetter) and Instagram activity centering around Baklava and tea time, you’ve probably gathered that by now.
I’m now wrapping up my second trip to this enchanting golden land and mapped 21 things to do in Istanbul next time you visit this magically eternal city. I’ve been here seven days and you would think my Istanbul wanderlust is exhausted, but recollecting these activities seriously excites me all over again.
Take a Cooking Class
The best way to learn about another culture is through food (your stomach and taste buds will agree). As a foodie, I aim to include a cooking class in every new country I visit.
I had the pleasure of taking part in Turkish Flavours cooking class in Istanbul and wow… what a parade of supreme tastes. The day started with a spice tasting at the Spice Bazaar (where I discovered the best garlic-y popcorn topping ever) and ended in charming owner and Istanbul-native Selin’s personal kitchen, where we created a seven-course introduction to Turkish food heaven.
I learned to make Börek and the best Taboulé I’ve ever tried, both skills I’m thrilled to add to my globalised cooking routine and culinary life. If you aren’t a fan of the labour that goes into cooking, Selin and Turkish Flavours also offer food walks, street food tours and other uniquely delicious culinary experiences which flawlessly fuse Istanbul’s culture and taste.
Selin aims to make you feel the famous Turkish warmth and hospitality from the moment you step into her gorgeous worldly home (#DecorGoals), which made this foodie experience particularly special. Bonus: there is a famous Turkish movie star dog living in the house named Yo-Yo. A huge thank you for having me, Selin and Turkish Flavours!
Invest into an Amazing Seafood Experience
I have a tangible connection to the sea and whenever I have the opportunity to taste the fruits of the local fishing waters, I go for it. Fish is a huge staple to the Turkish diet, especially in Istanbul, and I highly encourage everyone to try local Balik — that’s Turkish for fish 😉
Take a Bosphorus Boat Tour
The only proper way to see Istanbul’s glorious skyline and geographical advantage is from a boat. There are countless agencies specializing in Bosphorus boat tours; go for it. If you’re with a group or on a romantic vacation, there are options to rent a small yacht for the day. Whatever boating option you prefer, it’s worth it!
Visit the Blue Mosque
I think one of the greatest qualities of an explorer is being able to step into another culture or religion, even if for a moment, and try to find the beauty in that. Human faith always inspires me, and faith can be felt like an electric current when visiting the Blue Mosque. Besides being an architectural masterpiece, witnessing prayer here is truly touching.
Visit Hagia Sophia
Another gorgeous must-see, the Hagia Sophia is a true marvel. The grandeur of this church, one of the oldest in the world, is still difficult for me to comprehend. Located right next to the Blue Mosque, it’s easy to fit these two visits together.
Dare For a Turkish Bath (Hamam)
Turkish baths have been a part of the country’s history since the Ottoman Empire. Basically: get naked, throw social anxiety and decency out the window and allow yourself to be pampered Sultan style.
Take a Walk Over Galata Bridge
Iconic and a part of Istanbul’s history since ancient times, you’ll find artistic depictions of the Galata Bridge in every Istanbul museum you visit. Taking a stroll across this Istanbul landmark is a must-do for every visitor. Grab a tea afterward in one of the dozens of restaurants nestled cozily under the bridge.
Visit Dolmabahçe Palace
So I have a new hobby…strolling around palace grounds endlessly and pretending I’m an Ottoman princess. It’s fine. Visiting the Dolmabahçe Palace is a true cultural experience. Don’t forget to make a stop at the painting museum. The artistic depictions of Istanbul over the years, some aspects of the skyline remaining unchanged, give you the feeling that Istanbul is actually a time machine.
Eat at a Traditional Turkish Restaurant
Definitely one of my favourite things to do in Istanbul and I did way too much of it (ask my scale). From glorious Turkish bread to the endless Mezze dishes and Haydari, everything about the Turkish diet is fresh. For specific restaurant recommendations, visit my quick Istanbul travel guide.
Visit Topkapi Palace
I visited the gorgeous Topkapi Palace on my first visit to Istanbul two years ago and it’s certainly worth the visit. Full of endless gold, priceless jewels and an incredible ode to Ottoman architecture, it’s one of the most over-the-top lifestyles to be witnessed.
Visit the Asian Side of Istanbul
Istanbul is so huge that it spans two continents, yet most tourists tend to stay on the European side and linger around tourist of attractions. I highly encourage visitors to at least visit the Asian side of Istanbul. Accessible by a quick and gorgeous 20-minute ferry ride, I witnessed the greatest Turkish hospitality and authentic cuisine on the Asian side of the Bosphorus.
Go to Princes’ Islands for a Day
Described by locals as what Istanbul “used to be” before commercial development, Princes’ islands is a quick and beautiful way to escape the chaos and traffic of Istanbul. There are no cars allowed on this historical island and visitors have a chance to witness a more relaxed way of Turkish life. This is truly the hidden gem of the Istanbul experience.
Climb to the top of Galata Tower
Constructed in 1348 A.D, this near-ancient tower is an iconic part of the Istanbul skyline. Bonus: Climb to the top to see one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul.
Haggle at the Grand Bazaar
I’m comedic and clumsy at best when haggling, but even I can manage. From gorgeous Turkish lamps and rugs to faux designer everything, the Grand Bazaar is a maze of incredible bargains on quality Turkish goods. Always haggle, always.
Eat Authentic Baklava
I’ve never encouraged something so much. The Turkish Baklava experience is the best experience, especially if they serve it with ice cream in the middle. I mean, I can’t even. It’s everything.
Try Raki, the Local Drink of Choice
If you love to experiment with international drinks, the Raki is a must-try! If you walk by restaurants in the evening, each is packed with locals sipping on this refreshing Anis-inspired concoction. It’s one of those drinks you’ll either love or don’t, but it’s worth at least one sip — for food culture’s sake 🙂
Listen to the Afternoon Prayer Between Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque
I don’t know why this is so beautiful, but listening to the the afternoon prayer being chanted on megaphones between the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque makes me feel like I’m in another world. Enchanting, simply.
Drink Turkish Tea
All day, every day. No reason needed. Seriously.
Attend a local Belly Dancing Show
If you think Instagram is full of fitness inspiration, try seeing what these girls can do with their abs. #FitnessGoals
Feed the Stray Cats
I never did learn my lesson when my mom told me not to pet stray animals. Istanbul is FULL of wild cats and the Turkish have created a subculture out of taking care and loving them. You’ll often see trays of water and food scattered around the city and people playing with these friendly tempting-to-kidnap-them-forever felines.
Confession: I may have sobbed when I fell in love with a cat and couldn’t take it back to Germany.
Go For a Walk or Jog Along the Bosphorus or Bay
I only did this once. Considering the amount of calories I ate daily and the beauty of the experience, I probably should have made it a daily ritual. I had the luck of seeing dolphins in the bay one evening and nearly fainted from soul-completion.
BONUS: If you’re in Istanbul during spring, admire the thousands tulips throughout the city. Many think this beloved bulb originates from the Netherlands, but Istanbul is where these flowers actually come from. You’ll notice the tea glasses in Turkey are shaped like tulips; they are a celebrated bloom in Istanbul!
