Things to do in Istanbul

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal cityscape with a prominent mosque, a bridge, and a bustling harbor.
A historic cityscape with a prominent mosque featuring multiple domes and minarets, illuminated against a sunset sky.
A waterfront cityscape with a prominent tower, a bridge with restaurants, and a bustling waterfront area.
A waterfront with boats, a prominent tower, and historic buildings.
A historic building with a large dome and minarets, surrounded by a river and urban landscape.

Things to do

Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

RM130
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
Bosphorus Explorer: 3-Hour Cruise with Asian Side Visit

Bosphorus Explorer: 2-Hour Cruise Throughout the Day

RM46
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Bosphorus Explorer: 2-Hour Cruise Throughout the Day
Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Ticket

Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket and Audio Guide

RM267
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

RM130
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
Istanbul Highlights Small-Group Walking Guided Tour

Istanbul Highlights Small-Group Walking Guided Tour

RM631
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Istanbul Highlights Small-Group Walking Guided Tour
Bosphorus Morning Cruise with Asia Stop

Bosphorus Cruise 2-3 Hour Cruises with Optional Asia Stop & Meal

RM46
per adult
Bosphorus Cruise 2-3 Hour Cruises with Optional Asia Stop & Meal
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show

Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show

RM139
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show
Picture 4 for Activity Istanbul: Sightseeing Cruise Tour on the Bosphorus & Drinks

Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour with Audio Guide

RM23
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise Tour with Audio Guide
The dome and windows at the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour

RM511
per adult
74% of travellers recommend
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar - Half-Day Small Group Tour
See all activities in Istanbul
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Most popular experiences in Istanbul

Tours & day trips

See all 1091 activities
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table

Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.6 out of 10 with 7418 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 124 per adult
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private TableOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 296 activities
Istanbul Highlights Private Tour with free pick up service

Istanbul Highlights Private Tour with free pick up service

Activity duration is 7 hours
9.6 out of 10 with 542 reviews
Free cancellation available
The previous price was RM 1,164 and current price is RM 1,004 per adult*
Istanbul Highlights Private Tour with free pick up serviceOpens in new tab

Classes & workshops

See all 92 activities
Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Massage, and Pool in Taksim

Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Massage, and Pool in Taksim

Activity duration is 50 minutes
9.6 out of 10 with 59 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 212 per adult
Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Massage, and Pool in TaksimOpens in new tab

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 89 activities
Semi-Private Tour to Laodicea, Pamukkale, Hierapolis with Lunch

Semi-Private Tour to Laodicea, Pamukkale, Hierapolis with Lunch

Activity duration is 15 hours
8.8 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 951 per adult*
Semi-Private Tour to Laodicea, Pamukkale, Hierapolis with LunchOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 32 activities
Istanbul: Princes’ Islands Tour with Lunch and Transfers

Istanbul: Princes’ Islands Tour with Lunch and Transfers

Activity duration is 10 hours
8.8 out of 10 with 8 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 85 per adult
Istanbul: Princes’ Islands Tour with Lunch and TransfersOpens in new tab

What to do in Istanbul

Stay near popular Istanbul attractions

A statue of a soldier holding a flag, with a building in the background.

Taksim Square

8.8/10 (27,914 reviews)
Taksim Square pulses as modern Istanbul's vibrant heart, marked by the Republic Monument and gateway to bustling Istiklal Avenue. Savour Turkish cuisine at diverse eateries or explore side streets for hidden cafes.
See properties

Where to stay in Istanbul

Find the best Istanbul areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Istanbul
Learn more about Istanbul
A fountain with water jets in a circular pool, a mosque with multiple minarets, and palm trees in the foreground.

Sultanahmet

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia – discover Sultanahmet, a destination also famous for its shopping.

A coastal cityscape with a prominent bridge, historic buildings, and a harbor filled with boats.

Beyoğlu

Enjoy the popular shops in Beyoğlu. Taksim Square is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Sishane-Zemin Metro Station or Tophane Station to see more of Istanbul.

A historic building with a large reflection in the water, a boat in the foreground, and a partly cloudy sky.

Kadıköy

You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Kadıköy. Spend some time visiting top spots like Bosphorus, and catch the metro at Bahariye Station or Acibadem Station to see more of the area.

A cobblestone street lined with cafes and shops, with people walking and tables set outside.

Nişantaşı

You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Nişantaşı. Spend some time visiting top spots like Abdi Ipekci Street, and catch the metro at Maçka Cable Car Station or Taşkışla Cable Car Station to see more of the area.

A cityscape with a mix of modern high-rise buildings and traditional architecture, including a prominent church with a red roof.

Şişli

Travellers love Şişli for its popular shops, and you can see more of Istanbul by jumping on the metro at Sisli Station or Osmanbey Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Bomontiada and Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre.

Istanbul, Marmara Sea, Turkey. View of the embankment

Silivri

A large suspension bridge spanning a deep blue body of water, with a clear sky in the background.

Gebze

A coastal cityscape with a prominent ship docked at a pier, surrounded by dense urban development and a backdrop of hills.

Tuzla

A stone bridge with multiple arches over a calm river.

Corlu

A coastal landscape with a lighthouse, rocky cliffs, and a clear blue sky.

Şile

An aerial view of a coastal town with a harbor, boats, and a mountainous backdrop.

Adalar

A large suspension bridge spanning a calm body of water with a cityscape in the background.

Korfez

A historic stone building with a red-tiled roof and arched entrance.

Saray

Frequently asked questions

Is Istanbul worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Istanbul is explore Hagia Sophia. Tick this major attraction off your list, then experience more of this area's culture and history.
How do I spend a day in Istanbul?
Start your adventures with a visit to Hagia Sophia and Galata Tower. Then, check out other parts of Istanbul for a bite to eat and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Istanbul?
The top tourist attraction in Istanbul is Hagia Sophia, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Istanbul?
You can easily tick off top attractions like Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower and Topkapi Palace with a three-day trip to Istanbul. On average, most travellers book four days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to Arnavutköy.
Is Istanbul a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Istanbul is a good destination to visit on foot. Wander between Hagia Sophia and Galata Tower. Then take a stroll around Fatih, located 3 kilometres from the centre, and Old City, which is roughly 0.16 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Istanbul with kids?
Planning what to do in Istanbul with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or little ones, there are many family-friendly sights to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Istanbul for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are lots of things to do in Istanbul for adults including Istiklal Avenue and Sinan Erdem Dome.
Are there free things to do in Istanbul?
One of the simplest ways to learn about free things to do in Istanbul is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without taking your wallet out. Bağdat Avenue is one sight that doesn't charge an admission fee.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia