Best Things to do in Istanbul | Must-see attractions 2025

Istanbul Akvaryum

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Aquarium

Şenlikköy Mah. Yeşilköy Halkalı Cad. No:93 Florya

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Istanbul Akvaryum, the world's largest thematic aquarium, showcases diverse marine life across 16 thematic areas, including rainforest and ocean environments.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

Adults: 300 TRY, Children (3-12 years): 150 TRY, Discounts available for groups.

Beylerbeyi Palace

Tu, We, Fr-Su 09:00-17:00

Museum

Abdullahaga Cad.

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Beylerbeyi Palace, built between 1861-1865, served as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans and hosts opulent gardens and staterooms in Istanbul, Turkey.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Paid. Typical adult tickets are approximately 100 TL, with discounts for students and seniors.

Sokullu Mehmed Pasa Mosque

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Sehit Cosmesi Sok,

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Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque, a 16th-century gem in Istanbul, showcases classical Turkish architecture, featuring exquisite Iznik tiles in its prayer niches and pulpit.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

sea life

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Aquarium

Kocatepe Mah. Pasa Cad Forum Istanbul

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Istanbul Sea Life Akvaryum features one of the world's largest ocean tanks, housing Europe's largest shark collection and interactive exhibits for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets are around 200 TRY, child tickets are 140 TRY. Discounts available for groups.

Galata Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mahallesi

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Galata Bridge spans the Golden Horn in Istanbul, Turkey. It features pedestrian walkways, street vendors, and cafes, making it a lively area year-round.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. No ticket is required for access.

Istanbul Toy Museum

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Omer Pasa Cad. Dr. Zeki Zeren Sok. No:17 Goztepe

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Istanbul Toy Museum features a collection of over 4,000 toys from Turkey and around the world. Explore its unique exhibits housed in a historic villa.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Paid. Adult: 50 TL, Child: 25 TL. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Church of the Monastery of Christ Pantokrator

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Zeyrek Mah. Ibadethane Sk. Fatih

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Zeyrek Mosque in Istanbul, originally a Byzantine monastery, features significant architecture and historical relevance, currently undergoing restoration.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Serpent Column

Open 24 hours

Monument

Hippodrome of Constantinople

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The Serpent Column in Istanbul, Turkey is a historical landmark from ancient Greece, symbolizing victory and hosting rich cultural significance.

Duration: About 30 minutes.

Free. Access to the Hippodrome area is complimentary.

Ashkenazi Synagogue of Istanbul

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Temple

Yuksek Kaldirim Cad. No:27 Karakoy

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Aşkenazi Synagogue in Istanbul, Turkey, serves as a pivotal cultural center for the Ashkenazi Jewish community with rich history and architectural detail.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free access for visitors; donations accepted.

Kanyon Shopping Center

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Buyukdere Cad. No:185 Levent

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Kanyon Shopping Center in Istanbul combines architecture and retail, featuring 160 stores, 9 cinemas, and renowned brands like Harvey Nichols.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some events and special screenings may require a paid ticket.

Optimum Outlet Center

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Istiklal Sok. No:10/4 Yeni Sahra

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Optimum Outlet Center in Istanbul offers a diverse shopping experience with over 100 brands, dining options, and entertainment activities in a modern, open-air setting.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events may require tickets.

Hagia Irene

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Cankurtaran Mah. Topkapı Sarayı 1. Avlusu

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Hagia Irene is a 4th-century church museum in Istanbul, Turkey. It served as an arsenal and now operates as a museum and concert hall.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

American Hospital

Open 24 hours

Museum

Vali Konagi Cad. Guzel Bahce Sok. No:20 Nisantasi

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American Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey, is a comprehensive healthcare facility offering high-quality medical services and advanced technologies since 1920.

Duration: Depending on treatment, usually 1-3 hours.

Paid services vary by treatment. Consult the hospital for specific charges.

Neve Shalom Synagogue

Mo-Th 10:00-16:00; Fr 10:00-13:00; Su 10:00-14:00

Monument

Buyuk Hendek Cad. No:61 Karakoy

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Neve Shalom Synagogue in Istanbul, Turkey, serves as a key symbol of Jewish heritage, combining architectural beauty with a rich historical narrative.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated to support maintenance and community activities.

Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Hisarustu Kavacik Yolu

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Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge is a 4-lane suspension bridge in Istanbul, Turkey, connecting Europe and Asia over the Bosphorus Strait.

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Free for vehicles.

Volkswagen Arena Istanbul

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Stadium

Huzur Mah. Maslak Ayazaga Caddesi No: 4A Sariyer

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Volkswagen Arena Istanbul is a modern multi-purpose indoor arena, hosting concerts, sports events, and cultural performances, located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey.

Duration: 2–3 hours depending on the event.

Ticket prices vary by event. Check the official website for specifics.

Vialand

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Theme Park

Yesilpinar Mahallesi

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Vialand Amusement Park in Istanbul offers thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, shopping, and dining experiences in a unique environment themed around entertainment and adventure.

Duration: 4-6 hours.

Adults: 300 TL, Children (under 1.40m): 250 TL.

Kara Ahmet Pasha Mosque

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Un Degirmeni Sokak

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Kara Ahmet Pasha Mosque in Istanbul, built in the 16th century, features classic Ottoman architecture and a serene ambiance, making it a notable stop for visitors.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Akasya Acibadem Shopping Center

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Ankara AsfaltI 4. km Cecen sok Acıbadem Üsküdar

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Akasya Shopping Mall in Istanbul offers a wide variety of shopping options, dining experiences, and entertainment facilities in a modern architectural setting.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free entry. Some events and activities may have a cost.

Suleymaniye Mosque

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Monument

Prof. SIddIk Sami Onar Cd. No:1 Süleymaniye Mah

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Suleymaniye Mosque, an Ottoman masterpiece in Istanbul, showcases stunning architecture and a historic complex with gardens, a dining terrace, and expansive city views.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No cost for entry.

Galatasaray University

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Ciragan Cad. Ortakoy

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Galatasaray University in Istanbul, Turkey, established in 1992, has historical roots in the Galata Palace, founded in 1481 for Ottoman education.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free access to the campus; some events may require tickets.

Halic Congress Center

9:00 AM–9:00 PM

Business Center

Halic Congress Center

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Halic Congress Center, located in Istanbul, Turkey, offers advanced facilities for conferences and events, boasting modern architecture and convenient access to transport links.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Variable. Entry is usually free for public events; tickets required for specific exhibitions or congresses.

Kuyumcukent

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Mall

Yenibosna Merkez Mahallesi Ladin Sok No:4 Bahçelievler (Basın Expres Yolu)

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Kuyumcukent in Istanbul features over 400 jewelry shops, art galleries, and workshops, dedicated to traditional and contemporary jewelry making. It's a hub for artisans and visitors alike.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Kariye Mosque

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Kariye Cami Sk. No: 8 Fatih

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Kariye Museum in Istanbul, Turkey, features exquisite Byzantine mosaics and frescoes, originally built in the 6th century and converted to a mosque in the 16th century.

Duration: 2 hours.

Paid. 100 Turkish Lira for adults; discounts available for students and seniors.

Fethiye Camii

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Fethiyekapisi Sok Çarşamba

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Fethiye Mosque in Istanbul is a 13th-century church transformed into a mosque. It features historical architecture and cultural significance in Turkey.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Entry to the museum may require a fee for specific exhibitions.

Fenerbahce Sukru Saracoglu Stadium

Open during events

Stadium

Zühtüpaşa Mah. Recep Peker Cad.

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Sukru Saracoglu Stadium in Istanbul is home to Fenerbahçe SK, hosting football matches since 1908, with a capacity of 50,509 seats.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours, depending on the event.

Prices vary by match and seating; typically, adult tickets range from $5 to $30.

Istanbul Technical University

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

College

Ayazağa Yerleşkesi

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Istanbul Technical University, established in 1773, is a prominent public university in Istanbul, Turkey, known for engineering and architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Access to specific events may require a paid ticket.

Life Park

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Event hall

Mehmet Akif Ersoy Tabiat Parkı

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Life Park in Istanbul offers a unique concert and recreational space featuring various events throughout the year, ideal for nature and music lovers.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some special concerts may require a paid ticket.

Marmaray Ayrilik Cesmesi

Open 24 hours

Mall

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Marmaray Ayrilik Cesmesi in Istanbul is a historical water fountain dating back to the 19th century, notable for its architectural beauty and cultural significance.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. No entry fee required.

German Fountain

24 hours

Fountain

Binbirdirek Mh.

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The German Fountain in Istanbul is a late 19th-century neo-Byzantine structure commemorating Emperor Wilhelm II's 1898 visit, featuring marble columns and golden mosaics.

Duration: About 30 minutes.

Free.

Ataturk Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Unkapanı Köprüsü (Unkapanı - Şişhane arası)

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Ataturk Bridge in Istanbul connects the districts of Eminonu and Karakoy, offering views of the Golden Horn and nearby historical landmarks.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. No ticket is required to access the bridge.

World Trade Center Istanbul

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Yeşilköy/İstanbul

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World Trade Center Istanbul is a modern business hub offering office spaces, conference venues, and amenities in Turkey's economic capital.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free access to public areas; events may require paid tickets.

Biz Cevahir Halic Mall

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Mall

Vardar Blv. No:5-11

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Biz Cevahir Halic Mall in Istanbul, Turkey, is a premier shopping destination featuring diverse shops, fine dining, and entertainment options along the Golden Horn.

Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours.

Free entry. Individual costs apply for certain events and attractions within the mall.

Forum Istanbul

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Mall

Kocatepe Mah. Paşa Cad. No:3-5

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Forum Istanbul is Turkey's and Europe's largest shopping mall, located in the Bayrampaşa district of Istanbul, featuring a wide range of stores, dining, and entertainment options.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

Free. Entrance is free; some attractions may have fees.

Yeditepe University

8:30 AM–6:00 PM

University

İnönü Mah. Kayışdağı Cad.

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Yeditepe University, established in 1996, offers a modern education environment with a focus on research, innovation, and cultural exchange in Istanbul, Turkey.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events and workshops may require registration or a fee.

Yildiz Palace

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Yıldız Mahallesi Serencebey Yokuşu

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Yildiz Palace, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is a 19th-century imperial residence that features expansive gardens and serves as a museum dedicated to the royal court's history.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Blue Mosque

Mo-Su 09:00-18:00

Monument

Sultan Ahmet Mah. At Meydanı Cad. No:7

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The Blue Mosque in Istanbul, built between 1609 and 1616, is famed for its six minarets and stunning blue İznik tiles, attracting numerous visitors each year.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Entry is limited during prayer times.

Zorlu Performing Arts Center

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Gallery

2 Koru Sok.

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Zorlu Performing Arts Center in Istanbul features a state-of-the-art auditorium, galleries, and cultural events, hosting global and local performances year-round.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Tickets vary by performance; typically range from 100 to 500 Turkish Lira.

Bebek Park

7:00 AM–11:00 PM

Park

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Bebek Park in Istanbul is a scenic urban park along the Bosphorus, featuring walking paths, green spaces, and a picturesque waterfront view.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam

Mo-Su 09:00-16:00

Museum

Gulhane Parki Hasahirlar Binasi Sirkeci

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Istanbul Museum of the History of Science and Technology in Islam showcases Islamic contributions to science and technology with a range of historical instruments and models.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Paid. Adults: 20 TL, Students: 10 TL.

Hagia Sophia Museum

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

Ayasofya Myd. Sultanahmet

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Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey, showcases breathtaking mosaics, a vast dome, and rich history as a former cathedral and mosque, now a museum.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets: approximately €15.

Bezmialem Foundation University

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

Merkez Yerleşkesi (Topkapı Mah. Adnan Menderes Vatan Blv. No:113)

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Bezmialem Foundation University in Istanbul, Turkey, offers quality education and research opportunities, established in 2010, focusing on health sciences and engineering.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Admission to specific events and conferences may require a fee.

Topkapi Palace

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Cankurtaran Mahallesi Gulhane Park

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Topkapi Palace, located in Istanbul, Turkey, served as the Imperial residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years and is now a museum showcasing Ottoman history.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets cost approximately 200 TL, with discounts for students and seniors.

Miniaturk

Mo-Su 09:00-19:00

Museum

Imrahor Caddesi Sutluce

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Miniaturk in Istanbul features 105 life-sized miniature models of Turkey's cultural heritage, showcasing significant architecture from Istanbul and beyond.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Emirgan Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Emirgan Korusu Emirgan

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Emirgan Park in Istanbul features extensive green spaces, two ponds, jogging paths, and children's play areas, ideal for nature enthusiasts and families.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may charge a fee.

Fatih Mosque and Complex

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Ali Kuşçu Mah. Hattat Nafiz Cad. No: 6

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Fatih Mosque in Istanbul is an important Ottoman-era mosque, completed in 1470, with a rich history and architectural significance, originally built atop a former church.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free entry to the mosque; donations for maintenance are appreciated.

Panorama 1453 History Museum

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

TopkapI Kultur ParkI Merkez Efendi Mahallesi

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Panorama 1453 History Museum in Istanbul presents a detailed depiction of the Conquest of Constantinople through 3D paintings and artifacts.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets cost 35 TL; discounts available for students and seniors.

Museum of Innocence

Tu-Su 10:00-18:00; Th 10:00-21:00

Museum

Cukurcuma Caddesi

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Museum of Innocence in Istanbul, founded by Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk, showcases 1000+ artifacts reflecting daily life and love from 1970s to early 2000s Istanbul.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

₺20 for adults, ₺5 for audio guide.

Pera Museum

Tu-Su 10:00-19:00, Su 12:00-18:00

Museum

Mesrutiyet Cad. No.65 Tepebaşı

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Pera Museum in Istanbul showcases Turkish Orientalist art, Kütahya tiles, and temporary exhibitions from renowned artists. A cultural hub founded in 2005.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free on Wednesdays for students; free admission from 6 PM to 10 PM on Fridays. Other visits require a paid ticket.

Atakoy Galleria Shopping Mall

Mo-Su 10:00-22:00

Mall

Ataköy 1. Kısım Mah. Rauf Orbay Cad. No: 6

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Galleria Shopping Mall is Turkey's first large shopping center, located in Ataköy, Istanbul, and has shaped consumer habits and shopping culture in the country.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. No admission fee applies.