Istanbul.

One of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, the Hagia Sophia draws coverage across multiple creators for its historic wonder spanning Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Bery Istanbul Tips notes updated entrance fees visitors should know before going in 2024–2026.

A stunning example of Ottoman architecture consistently featured across creator itineraries. Rick Steves visits it as part of the historic Sultanahmet district alongside the Hagia Sophia.

The seat of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace is featured across multiple creators for its grandeur and the fascinating Harem section. Travels With My Friend dedicates a full episode to the ancient Harem built in 1459, while Rick Steves explores its depths.

The ancient Roman-era Hippodrome is the starting point of Rick Steves' exploration of Istanbul's layered history, offering a tangible link to the city's Byzantine past right in the heart of Sultanahmet.

An ancient wellness ritual in marble steam chambers, covered in depth by both Rick Steves and Bery Istanbul Tips. Bery walks through the full experience from arrival to final tea in one of Istanbul's most historic baths.

A smaller, less hectic bazaar near the Blue Mosque featured by Travels With My Friend as an ideal spot for authentic shopping in the historic Sultanahmet district, away from the crowds of the Grand Bazaar.

A highly praised hands-on cooking and food tour experience based in Sultanahmet, led by local expert Leyla. Travels With My Friend calls the gourmet walking tour one of their trip highlights and cooks two Ottoman dishes originally served in the Sultan's palace.

One of the world's largest and oldest covered markets, consistently recommended by creators for shopping and atmosphere. Rick Steves calls the endless shops enchanting, and the World Travel Guide highlights it as a place to shop like a local.

A treasure trove of spices, teas, and Turkish delights in the heart of Eminönü. Rick Steves tastes Turkish delight here and calls it venerable, while Travels With My Friend dedicates a full gourmet walking tour to its traders and flavors with local expert Leyla of Cooking Alaturka.

Bery Istanbul Tips leads a street food tour covering must-try dishes including balık ekmek (fish sandwich), midye dolma (stuffed mussels), kumpir (loaded baked potato), dürüm, and künefe, with specific local spots and updated prices.

Cruising the Bosphorus offers the best views of Istanbul spanning two continents. Rick Steves cruises the busy port and calls the views unmissable, while the World Travel Guide and Bery Istanbul Tips both recommend it as a top experience.

Bery Istanbul Tips covers this popular evening experience in detail, describing breathtaking Bosphorus views combined with a Turkish night show and dinner, calling it one of the top things to do in Istanbul.

One of Istanbul's most recognizable landmarks, the Galata Tower is recommended for its panoramic sunset views over the city. The World Travel Guide specifically calls it perfect for sunset.

A legendary hotel-museum first opened in 1895 to welcome Orient Express passengers, described by Travels With My Friend as a class above with an incredible sense of history tied to Ottoman sultans and Agatha Christie. It also served as accommodation for Solo Solo Travel's Istanbul visit.

Rick Steves watches dervishes whirl in their captivating spiritual trance, describing it as a mesmerizing cultural experience unique to Turkey that visitors should not miss.

The modern heart of Istanbul's European side, reachable by tram from the Old Town. Rick Steves zips there to taste local treats, and it serves as a gateway to the city's lively Beyoğlu neighbourhood.

Turkish Food Travel visits a stunning calligraphy exhibition in Tophane during Ramadan 2026 centered on the theme of Family, showcasing the neighbourhood's cultural and artistic side during one of the city's most atmospheric times of year.

The grand 19th-century palace that replaced Topkapi as the Ottoman sultans' residence, used until 1924. Travels With My Friend explores the modern Harem here, finding it strikingly close to modern life yet radically different.

Multiple creators highlight crossing to the Asian side of Istanbul by ferry as a must-do. The New Travel explores its similarities and differences with European cities, while Travels With My Friend visits the acclaimed Lacivert restaurant on the Asian shore.

Bery Istanbul Tips frames the ancient city of Ephesus in Izmir province as an ideal day trip from Istanbul, covering its archaeological ruins, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation, and the House of Virgin Mary for history and faith-focused travellers.