Highlights
Places to visit in Istanbul: Being a Tourist in Your Own City
Istanbul is a unique city where history and modern life are intertwined, with a story in every corner. From the cool waters of the Bosphorus to the mysterious streets of the historical peninsula, a new discovery awaits you at every step. How about being a tourist in your own city? Those who live in Istanbul usually have the understanding that "Real Istanbulites don't visit Istanbul". But let's leave this stereotype aside and know our city like the back of our hands. In this article, we have compiled the most fascinating and must-see places of Istanbul for you. You can also make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable with the car rental services offered by RentiCar. Rent a car and get ready to explore the four corners of Istanbul. Here are the must-see places in Istanbul!
Sultanahmet Square A Day in the Heart of History
Sultanahmet is one of the best places to feel the historical texture of Istanbul. There are some of the most iconic buildings in Istanbul. Hagia Sophia, with its 1500 years of history, now welcomes its visitors as a mosque after serving as both a church and a museum. Just opposite is the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue tiles. This mosque is both a place of worship and an architectural masterpiece. Below the square is the Basilica Cistern. The mystical atmosphere of the cistern and the ancient columns in the water will take you to another world. Sultanahmet Square is the perfect place to take historical walks, take photos and witness Istanbul's past.
Topkapi Palace Discover Ottoman Splendor
Topkapi Palace, where you can trace the traces of the Ottoman Empire, offers a fascinating experience both historically and architecturally. As you wander through the palace's courtyards, museums and treasures, you will almost recreate the times in which the Ottoman sultans lived. Inside the palace, there are many interesting sections such as the sacred relics room, the harem and terraces with magnificent Bosphorus views. Topkapi Palace is a must-see for history buffs.
Grand Bazaar Where Shopping Meets History
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered bazaars in the world. You can enjoy the historical atmosphere while getting lost among the colorful shops. Strolling among gold jewelry, antiques, carpets, spices and handmade souvenirs, you can both shop and witness the history of Istanbul's trade. You will lose track of time as you wander the labyrinthine streets of the Grand Bazaar.
Galata Tower Bird's eye view of Istanbul
Standing on the Galata Tower and watching Istanbul 360 degrees means looking at the beauties of this city from above. A must-see on your list of places to visit in Istanbul, this historic tower was built during the Byzantine Empire and is one of the best spots for panoramic views of Istanbul. It offers a wonderful view both at sunset and under the night lights. Admire the mesmerizing view of Istanbul from the Galata Tower as you watch the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn and the historical peninsula.
Istiklal Street and Taksim Square: Blend in with the City Crowd
Walk along Istiklal Street, take a tour on the historic tram and feel the energy of the city at Taksim Square. Istiklal Street is always alive with cafes, restaurants, shops and art galleries. Taksim Square is known as the heart of Istanbul and hosts various events and festivals. This area is the perfect place to explore the modern face of Istanbul and enjoy the city life.
Bosphorus Tour Discover Istanbul at Sea
Seeing Europe and Asia at the same time on a boat trip on the Bosphorus is a wonderful experience. Bosphorus tours offer you the opportunity to travel between the two continents of Istanbul. You can glide between the historical mansions, palaces and bridges along the shore and witness the beauty of the city from the sea. This tour is the perfect way to explore the unique geography and cultural richness of Istanbul.
Ortaköy: Breakfast and Photo Pleasure
Have breakfast on the beach in Ortaköy, eat a baked potato and take lots of photos with a beautiful view of the Bosphorus. Ortaköy is famous for its views of the historic mosque and the bridge and is a pleasant stopover with cafes lined up along the waterfront. Here, you can immortalize the beauties of Istanbul frame by frame while spending time in the peaceful atmosphere of the Bosphorus.
Buyukada Let's get some island air
It is very pleasant to rent a bicycle and explore the island in Büyükada, the largest of the Prince Islands. It is an ideal place to get away from the busyness of Istanbul and spend a day in touch with nature. Once you reach the island, you can take a bicycle tour, see historical mansions and have a picnic by the sea in this peaceful environment where motorized vehicles are prohibited.
Pierre Loti Hill: Tea Break Against the Golden Horn
Sip your tea and enjoy the view of the Golden Horn from Pierre Loti Hill and enjoy Istanbul. Named after the French writer Pierre Loti, this hill has a magnificent view of the Golden Horn. This spot, which you can easily reach by cable car, fascinates its visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking view.
Rahmi Koç Museum: For History and Technology Enthusiasts
From submarines to steam trains, including land transportation, Rahmi Koç Museum is both educational and entertaining. Located on the banks of the Golden Horn, this museum is a great discovery for those interested in the history of industry, transportation and communication. Offering interactive exhibitions for children and adults, the museum also offers a nostalgic journey.
Camlica Hill Panoramic View of Istanbul
Çamlıca Hill is an ideal place for a bird's eye view of Istanbul. If the weather is clear, you can even see the Marmara Sea. This hill is the perfect spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, to be alone with nature and enjoy a wide panoramic view of Istanbul. Click here for location.
Balat and Fener: Get Lost in Colorful Streets
Balat and Fener, with their historic houses and colorful streets, are great places to discover a different side of Istanbul. These areas, with their narrow streets, historic churches and synagogues, allow you to witness Istanbul's multicultural past. It also offers great shots for photography enthusiasts.
Emirgan Grove Alone with Nature
Take a walk and enjoy nature in Emirgan Grove, one of the most beautiful parks in Istanbul. Especially spectacular during tulip season, this grove is an ideal place for both walking and picnics. With its colorful flowers and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a breathing break in the city.
Istanbul Modern: For Art Lovers
Visit Istanbul Modern to see the best examples of modern art. The museum is home to works by both local and international artists. A great stop for art lovers with contemporary art exhibitions, workshops and events.
Miniatürk: Traveling Turkey in One Day
Miniatürk is a fun park where you can see miniature models of Turkey's important monuments together. Interesting for both children and adults, this park allows you to explore Turkey's historical and cultural heritage through small-scale models.
Beyoglu Center of Art and Culture
You can visit art galleries and relax in boutique cafes on the streets of Galata, Asmalımescit and Cihangir. Beyoglu is the art and culture center of Istanbul. Here, you can spend a day filled with street art, galleries, theaters and music venues.
Yedikule Dungeons: Journey to the Depths of History
Yedikule Dungeons, one of the oldest buildings in Istanbul, will take you back to the past with its historical atmosphere. Among the places to visit in Istanbul, you can explore the dungeons and city walls in this structure dating back to the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, which is the center of attention for history lovers. A must-see for those interested in history.
Maiden's Tower Pearl of the Bosphorus
You can have breakfast or dinner at the Maiden's Tower, which you can reach by boat from Salacak beach. This historic tower is located in the middle of the Bosphorus and offers both a romantic and historical atmosphere.
Suleymaniye Mosque Mimar Sinan's Masterpiece
Suleymaniye Mosque, the masterpiece of Mimar Sinan, will take you deep into history. This mosque fascinates not only with its architectural beauty but also with its historical significance. With one of the most beautiful views of Istanbul, watching the city from Suleymaniye is truly spectacular. The peaceful atmosphere will soothe your soul and offer you a unique experience. The area around Suleymaniye is also known for its famous dried bean shops. After your visit to the mosque, don't forget to stop by these restaurants for a delicious feast of dried beans!
Moda Beach: Pleasant Walks and Cafes
Take a walk along the Kadıköy Moda seafront, have a drink at the cafes by the sea and enjoy the tranquility. Moda is one of the most tranquil and peaceful neighborhoods in Istanbul. Walks along the coast and time spent in cozy cafes are the perfect way to get away from the chaos of the city.
Rediscover Istanbul with RentiCar
Being a tourist in Istanbul is a different experience. Enjoy discovering new places and enjoying the city with the excitement of being a tourist in your own city. Whether you are planning a one-day getaway or a long-term exploration, RentiCar's flexible rental options will allow you to explore the four corners of Istanbul with ease. If you are ready to discover Istanbul, let your journey begin and rediscover this magnificent city.
