Istanbul, once called Constantinople, is Turkey's second most important city, aside from the capital, Ankara.
There are many reasons to visit Turkey and its cultural melting pot, Istanbul. There is delicious food available at many different places throughout the city, a dizzying number of museums and religious sites of importance, and some of the best architecture you are likely to see in Asia or Europe, the two continents Turkey sits on.
We appreciate that it can be intimidating, especially if you have a modest budget. This is why we have put together this guide to the best things to do in Istanbul, with some great suggestions for saving money.
1. Istanbul Archaeological Museums
When you want to learn more about Turkish culture and history, one of the most important things to do in Istanbul is head to the Istanbul Archaeological Museums. One of the biggest and oldest museums in the country, it is home to an outstanding collection of exhibits featuring artifacts from various eras and civilizations.
You can browse the various pottery pieces, mosaics, and sarcophagi. As there are actually three museums in this complex, this is a great frugal choice and will give you a real sense of the archeological heritage of the country and the city.
2. Hagia Sophia
Among the best things to do in Istanbul is explore Hagia Sophia, an iconic and spectacular landmark. This is a must for lovers of art, history, and stunning architecture. You can explore its interiors, follow the same footsteps as the emperors of the Byzantine era, and marvel at the beautiful domes, marble columns, and intricate mosaics. Be sure to look through the small door where the Sultan entered this mosque. Its minute detail is remarkable.
Hagia Sophia is featured on every “must do in Istanbul” list. And it's for a good reason. Don't miss it.
3. Dolmabahce Palace
Another of the top things to do in Istanbul to get a real sense of the architecture and rich history is to see the stunning Dolmabahce Palace, a residence for sultans of the Ottoman Empire during the 19th and 20th centuries. It features a fantastic array of European and Ottoman stylistic influences. From the waterfront of the palace, you can also experience breathtaking vistas of the marvelous Bosphorus. Be sure not to miss the crystal staircase and fantastic chandelier.
4. Topkapi Palace Museum
The top things to do in Istanbul include many religious and royal sites, such as the Topkapi Palace Museum. This was the stunning residence for the sultans of the Ottoman Empire for over 400 years. Stroll through the many sprawling courtyards, sumptuous halls, and intricately designed and decorated rooms to get a sense of living as a king. There are many impressive furnishings, sparkling jewels, and sublime art pieces. You can also look in the harem quarters where the favorite wives of the sultans and their concubines were housed.
5. Sultanahmet Square
Even if you are looking for some frugal, off-the-beaten-track sites and landmarks to visit, there are many great tourist things to do in Istanbul that you should include in your trip there. Sultanahmet Square is one of them. This is in the city's historic quarter and is an open square where you will find some of the most important sites: Hagia Sophia, Cistern Basilica, and the Blue Mosque.
For some inspired views of Hagia Sophia, there is a park behind it that offers excellent views of the minarets and the dome. The square is also where you can get to the Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. You can use the square as a starting point to visit many of the key attractions around the city center.
6. Grand Bazaar
Speaking of the Grand Bazaar, if you are looking for fun things to do in Istanbul, you should head to the Grand Bazaar. It is one of the world's biggest covered markets. It features more than 4,000 stores across 60 streets, where you will find a fantastic collection of items ranging from unique pieces of Turkish golden jewelry to elaborate ceramics and handmade Turkish carpets.
To get the best out of your time there, why not take a trip down the quieter alleys and side streets to find hidden treasures like rare antique collections and traditional Turkish clothing stalls? You can use this as your opportunity to haggle and get yourself a bargain.
7. Kiz Kulesi
Known as Kiz Kulesi or Maiden's Tower, this is one of the must-see things in Istanbul. Built on a tiny island in the center of the Bosphorus, it has been used as a quarantine station, defense tower, and lighthouse. Nowadays, the building is a museum, event venue, and restaurant that offers a truly unique experience to its visitors.
Ideally, you should book a table at the restaurant in advance and treat yourself to a meal. At the same time, enjoy the stunning views of the city, including Uskudar, an old part of the city that features many lovely historic buildings and mosques originating from the time of the Ottoman Empire.
There are lots of chances to take great snaps for your vacation scrapbook.
8. Galata Bridge
The Galata Bridge is among the must-do things in Istanbul. This majestic structure towers over the Golden Horn and is virtually impossible to miss from the city's impressive skyline. The great thing about Galata Bridge is that you can enjoy beautiful city views and go there for recreation, food and drink, or to relax. If you walk across the bridge, you will be treated to some tasty street food, including the most sublimely fresh fish sandwiches.
Even for people not easily impressed by bridges and functional structures, this is a masterpiece of engineering and construction.
9. The Blue Mosque
Among the many things to see and do in Istanbul for people with a religious faith or those just interested in the country's history, The Blue Mosque is one of the most striking landmarks. It is truly a breathtaking marvel of building excellence with six minarets and a dome interior with blue tiles, hence the name.
As well as being one of the most recognized buildings in the country, it is also an important symbol for those of the Islamic faith.
10. Egyptian Bazaar
Also known as the Spice Bazaar, the Egyptian Bazaar is a must-see and one of the more unusual things to do in Istanbul. The market dates back to the Ottoman Empire and offers many traditional Turkish delicacies. Walking around, you can marvel at the exotic aromas and vibrant colors, browse, and even buy interesting nuts, teas, spices, and souvenirs.
It's not just the shopping that makes this an unusual place; it's the atmosphere. This market is like a snapshot of authentic traditional Turkish culture, with all the vendors haggling with customers.
11. Kariye Mosque
If you are looking for secret things to do in Istanbul that may not attract the same crowds as the more popular attractions and sites, consider visiting Kariye Mosque. In a city full of spectacular architecture, it is one of the most unique and beautiful buildings in Istanbul, with a fascinating and rich heritage. This mosque was a church first, and the elaborate and intricate frescoes and artwork are surprisingly well preserved. For the works of art, it is worth stopping by. While there, you can also visit the impressive Istanbul Archaeological Museums.
12. Cruise the Bosphorus at Night
The city's skyline is famous and has appeared in many travel brochures, publications, television shows, and movies. Although we've covered several ways to view it in the daylight, if you are looking for things to do in Istanbul at night, consider taking a cruise along the Bosphorus.
This offers some spectacular skyline views and lets you enjoy a nice meal and entertainment. A cruise may not sound like a particularly frugal activity, but you can get a deal if you book in advance and shop around.
13. Church of St. Stephen of the Bulgars
Most of the religious landmarks found around Istanbul are free to enter. While the city is known for its important place in the modern Islamic world, numerous Christian churches are still open and functioning. These are often just as impressive to explore as their Islamic counterparts. One of the best free things to do in Istanbul if you are interested in the city's Christian legacy is the Church of St. Stephen.
This impressive feat of construction was built using 500 tons of cast iron shipped from Vienna on the Danube in pieces on many barges. The recent restoration of this building was completed in 2018, and it now has a brand-new cross-shaped basilica and an ornate, gleaming, and sparkling interior. Ensure you have enough time to marvel at its structural beauty and striking design.
14. Rumeli Fortress
A city steeped in its rich history and cultural heritage, Istanbul has much to offer any traveler. If you are looking for other great things to do in Istanbul to add to your itinerary, visit Rumeli Fortress. This structure was built in the 15th century by Mehmed II, an Ottoman Sultan. As well as supplying some inspirational views of the Bosphorus Strait and Istanbul's spellbinding skyline, there are all the halls, towers, and walls of the fortress that you can explore, making this a great and frugal choice when you have a spare couple of hours. This is one of the many things to do on the Asian side of Istanbul.
16. Basilica Cistern
A list of the best things to do in Istanbul, especially if you have a modest budget, would only be complete with the amazing Basilica Cistern. Found underground, this is an awe-inspiring location that is still standing even after all this time. It was first designed and constructed in the 6th century and is a standout feature of the city's time as Constantinople.
Robust and durable vaults support more than 300 columns in the cistern. Many of these striking columns and vaults feature upside-down Medusa heads. Why are they upside down? They are there to stop evil from entering the building.
While there, before you leave, take some time to look at your feet and watch the carp swimming around in the water below. Don't be alarmed if it sounds a bit claustrophobic given that it is underground, because it is very spacious with high ceilings that never make you feel too cramped.
17. Gulhane Park
When you want to take a break from the busy hustle and bustle found in most of the city and spend a bit of time relaxing while being a little frugal, visiting Gulhane Park is one of the top things to do in Istanbul. Although it is right in the city's heart, it feels like a tranquil paradise. There are many winding paths to get lost on as you wander around the picturesque city park. Beautiful flowers and lush greenery are everywhere. If you want to treat yourself and don't fancy preparing your picnic, you could spend a little on the delicious Turkish tea and snacks sold by many vendors throughout the park.
Final Thoughts
We won't lie to you: many things to do in Istanbul are far from frugal experiences. The city comes alive at night, so it is worth experiencing it at least once while you are there to get a sense of modern Turkey. However, we have specifically chosen our list of museums and historic and cultural sites of interest because they are either free or inexpensive.
While we have tried to feature as many of the best options as possible to give you some hints for spending your time in Istanbul, there are some that we need to catch up on, or there may even be some we didn't know about. Why not include your suggestions and recommendations in the comments below? We hope you enjoy your time in Istanbul.
I’m Steve. I’m an English Teacher, traveler, and an avid outdoorsman. If you’d like to comment, ask a question, or simply say hi, leave me a message here, on Twitter (@thefrugalexpat1). Many of my posts have been written to help those in their journey to financial independence. I am on my journey, and as I learn more I hope to share more. And as always, thanks for reading The Frugal Expat.
