If you’re considering taking a holiday to Turkey, or Türkiye as it's officially known, we suggest starting with Istanbul, as it offers a remarkable introduction to a country that lies between Europe and Asia. Formerly known as Constantinople and once seen as the capital of the world, Istanbul is the fusion point of where East meets West. Istanbul is an exciting cosmopolitan city with a rich and diverse history; from Roman rulers to the Ottoman Empire and you can still experience their legacies. Discover the top highlights you can experience on our Istanbul City Break or during our stay here as part of our Turkey holidays.
1. Embark on a Bosphorus cruise
An optional excursion we highly recommend is taking a cruise on the Bosphorus, the stunning natural strait that divides Europe and Asia. Sit up on deck with a pint of Efes, the national beer of Turkey and take in the beautiful surroundings, such as the Beylerbeyi Palace, the summer residence of the Ottoman Sultans, and Rumeli Hisari, a medieval fortress.
2. Explore Topkapı Palace
Topkapı was the main residence and headquarters of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 hundred years. In the 15th century, after conquering Constantinople the capital of the Byzntine Empire, Mehmed II ordered the construction of the palace. His successors changed and remodeled the palace, where you can see various architectural styles and decorations from Islamlic, Ottoman and European. Between 1,000–4,000 people lived in Topkapı Palace, including up to 300 in the harem. When the Ottoman Empire ended in 1923, it became a museum and today it gives a fascinating insight into the Ottoman lifestyle.
3. Experience Hagia Sophia
Considered to be the epitome of Byzantine architecture, Hagia Sophia is a stunning and historical building which was originally a church, then a mosque and it became a museum in 1934. Very recently and perhaps controversially the Turkish president ordered the reclassification of Hagia Sophia as a mosque, but tourists are still welcome to visit. Inside you’ll see wonderful mosaics, the grand dome and impressive marble pillars. With so much history and influence from various cultures and religions, it’s no wonder it’s one of most visited tourist attractions in Turkey.
4. Discover Balat
Balat is one of Istanbul's most vibrant and charming neighbourhoods, known for its colourful streets and rich history. Once home to a thriving Jewish community, the area is now a blend of cultures and architecture, offering a unique glimpse into the city's past. The colours in Balat are simply breathtaking—bright and beautiful hues adorn the houses, steps, and even overhead umbrellas, creating an irresistible charm. It’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee at one of the cosy cafes and watch the world go by.
5. Visit the Blue Mosque
A masterpiece completed in 1619 by the Ottoman architect Sedefkar Mehmet Aga, it’s known as the ‘Blue Mosque’ to tourists because of its stunning interior blue titles. As it’s still an active Mosque, you will need to dress appropriately when visiting, women will need to cover their heads with a scarf and all visitors will need to have their knees and shoulders covered.
6. Shop in the Grand Bazaar
You can just about find anything in the largest and oldest covered market in the world, from Turkish Delights, carpets, jewelry, tea to leather goods. Remember to reject the first offer and try haggling, or “pazarlik” in Turkish, the price down, it’s very much expected and all part of the fun when shopping in the Grand Bazaar.
7. Take a stroll around Taksim
The Republic Monument, which depicts the founders of the Turkish Republic, situated in Taksim Square, is a major leisure district and considered to be the very modern part of Istanbul; when you stroll along the streets it has a similar feel to Grafton Street, except a lot more vibrant and the shops and restaurants seem to be open 24/7! Make sure to order an ice-cream from one of the vendors, they will serve it to you in a very entertaining way!
8. Uncover the Basilica Cistern
One of Istanbul's most fascinating historical landmarks, the Basilica Cistern is a vast underground water storage facility built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian I. Originally designed to supply water to the Great Palace and surrounding buildings, it stands as a stunning architectural marvel. With over 300 marble columns, each featuring intricate details, the cistern is full of surprises—from art-like jellyfish installations to the iconic Medusa heads hidden in a quiet corner. The changing lights cast an enchanting glow, creating a magical atmosphere.
You may also recognise this unique location from its appearance in the James Bond film 'From Russia With Love.' Check out our blog post on Top James Bond Film Locations To Visit and see where else 007 has ventured around the world!
9. Enjoy Turkish Cuisine
Turkish cuisine is considered to be one of the best in the world, due to its variety of incredible produce across the country. Turkish food is mostly a legacy of the Ottoman cuisine, but it has been influenced by various other cultures over the centuries. There are many diverse dishes to try in Turkey; a Meze is a selection of small dishes such as humus, dolma and Babagannuş and is a great introduction to Turkish cuisine. The ‘Pudding Shop’, was restaurant frequented by travellers doing the hippie trail, and here you can enjoy a delicious Doner Kebab. One of our favourite dishes is Lahmacuna, a Turkish version of a pizza topped with minced meat and vegetables. Turkey is also renowned for its sweet treats, like Baklava, a famous pastry made with layers of flaky filo, nuts, and honey. For those craving something rich and creamy, the San Sebastian Cheesecake is a decadent choice—silky, chocolaty, and utterly indulgent" To round off a meal in Turkey, enjoy a cup of traditional Turkish tea or coffee. If you fancy something a bit stronger, try rakı, also known as 'Lion’s Milk,' an anise-flavoured alcohol similar to Greek ouzo.
10. Visit Pera Palace Hotel
The Pera Palace Hotel is a historic and luxurious landmark in Istanbul. Opened in 1895, the hotel was originally built to accommodate passengers of the famous Orient Express, making it a favourite among wealthy travellers and international dignitaries. Its opulent architecture blends European and Ottoman styles, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era. The hotel is also famously associated with Agatha Christie, who is said to have written 'Murder on the Orient Express' during her stay.
11. See Galata Tower
Originally built in 1348 by the Genoese as a watchtower, it played a key role in the city's defence. Standing at 67 metres tall, its distinctive cylindrical shape and stone structure make it a striking feature in the Galata district, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city's skyline.
12. Relax with a Turkish Bath
A trip to Turkey wouldn't be complete without experiencing an authentic Turkish Bath or hamam, a centuries-old tradition of relaxation and cleansing. During a typical visit, you’ll start in a heated marble room, followed by an exfoliating scrub with a traditional kese mitt and a luxurious foam massage, leaving you refreshed and revitalised. During your free time we recommend visiting Cagaloglu Hamami, the last hamam to built during the Ottoman Empire in 1741.
A city break to Istanbul offers a perfect blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. A city where East meets West, Istanbul captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, world-renowned landmarks, and bustling markets. Start planning your trip today, experience the magic of Istanbul for yourself and if you want to see more of this fascinating country, check out all our holidays to Turkey.
