Things to do and See in Istanbul 

Top Attractions 

Hagia Sophia  

A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the Hagia Sophia has served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum. Its massive dome and stunning mosaics are truly breathtaking. 

Topkapi Palace 

This opulent palace was the residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries. It houses a vast collection of treasures, including the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker's Diamond. 

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) 

Famous for its six minarets and stunning blue Iznik tiles, the Blue Mosque is a working mosque that also welcomes visitors to admire its interior beauty. 

Basilica Cistern 

An underground marvel built in the 6th century, the Basilica Cistern features a forest of columns and an eerie yet fascinating atmosphere. 

Istanbul Archaeological Museums 

This complex of three museums houses over a million artifacts from various civilisations, including ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine. 

Galata Tower Istanbul  

Offering panoramic views of Istanbul, this medieval stone tower is a great spot for photos and learning about the city's history. 

Dolmabahçe Palace  

A grandiose palace on the Bosphorus, Dolmabahçe Palace showcases the lavish lifestyle of the Ottoman sultans with its ornate rooms and grand halls. 

Chora Church  

The Chora Church is famous for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. It’s a bit off the beaten path but well worth the visit. 

Taksim Square & Istiklal Avenue 

The heart of modern Istanbul, Taksim Square, and the bustling Istiklal Avenue are lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. 

Süleymaniye Mosque 

Another stunning mosque created by the famous architect Mimar Sinan, the Suleymaniye Mosque Istanbul offers beautiful views over the Golden Horn and a serene atmosphere. 

Day Trip Opportunities from Istanbul 

Princes Islands  

Reachable by ferry (approx. 1.5hrs) the Princes' Islands offer a peaceful escape from the city with car-free streets, charming Victorian-era houses, and beautiful landscapes. Büyükada is the largest and most popular island of this archipelago, ideal for biking and horse-drawn carriage tours.  

Thrace Wine Route 

The Thrace Wine Route of Turkey offers the perfect opportunity to admire natural settings, take part in vineyard tours, enjoy wine tasting, dining at fine restaurants, and exploring charming towns like Tekirdag, Kirklareli, and Edirne. The Thrace Wine Route is situated approx. 2-3hrs from Istanbul.  

Polonezköy 

Around an hour’s drive from Istanbul, the rural village of Polonezköy  was founded by Polish settlers, offering traditional Polish cuisine to sample, a museum set in a historic house, a Polish church, and lots of lush greenery with hiking trails.  

Kilyos 

Kilyos is a scenic coastal hotspot with beaches on the Black Sea, water sports opportunities, seafood restaurants, and a relaxing seaside atmosphere, taking you away from the bustle of Istanbul for a short while. It’s situated around an hour’s drive from the city.  

Weather in Istanbul 

Istanbul experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year, influenced by its location between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara.  

Spring (March to May) 

Spring is mild and gradually warms up, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Rain is still common, especially in March, but April and May are generally sunnier. This is a great time to visit Istanbul as the city's parks and gardens are in bloom. Light jackets and layers are recommended. 

Summer (June to August) 

Summers in Istanbul are warm and humid with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. July and August are the hottest months, often exceeding 30°C. Lightweight clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. The city's coastal areas and islands are popular for escaping the heat. 

Autumn (September to November) 

Autumn sees a gradual drop in temperature. September and early October are warm and pleasant, while late October and November can be cooler and wetter. Layers are useful as temperatures can vary. This season offers fewer crowds and beautiful fall foliage. 

Winter (December to February) 

Winters are cold and wet with temperatures averaging between 5°C to 10°C, and occasional snowfall. January is the coldest month. Warm clothing, including coats, hats, scarves, and gloves, are necessary. Istanbul's historic sites and cosy cafes are great for winter exploration.