We spent four incredible days exploring Istanbul, and let me tell you — it wasn’t nearly enough! We managed to cover most of the city’s famous sights, but by the end of each day our feet were exhausted and our list of “places we still want to see” somehow kept growing. I guess that means we’ll just have to come back, right?

Istanbul During Ramadan

By pure coincidence, our trip fell during Ramadan — the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims around the world. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, breaking their fast each evening with a meal called iftar.

At first, we were a bit worried that everything might be closed and that finding restaurants would be tricky. But honestly, we didn’t notice much disruption as tourists. Some businesses did close temporarily with little notes saying the owners had gone for prayer, and we noticed heavier traffic and more congestion in the hour leading up to iftar — especially around the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.

But the most memorable part was witnessing the atmosphere in the evenings — families and friends gathering in the parks and green spaces near the mosques, spreading picnic blankets, and sharing food together as the sun went down.

So what can you see in 4 days in Istanbul?

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia — literally “Holy Wisdom” or “Divine Wisdom” — is one of Istanbul’s most extraordinary landmarks. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, it’s often described as one of the eight wonders of the world, and for good reason. Few buildings of its age have survived the centuries so magnificently.

The first cathedral on this site was built by Constantine the Great in 325 AD, atop the foundations of a pagan temple. After being destroyed by fire in 404, it was rebuilt by Theodosius II, only to fall again during the Nika Rebellion of 532. The magnificent building we see today was completed between 532 and 537 AD under Emperor Justinian I, who personally oversaw its construction. The Hagia Sophia became the ultimate expression of Byzantine architecture and is often said to have “changed the history of architecture” itself.

Over the centuries, Hagia Sophia has worn many faces. It was looted during the Fourth Crusade in 1204, when much of its treasure was taken to St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice. After the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, Sultan Mehmed II converted it into Istanbul’s principal mosque, adding the famous minarets soon after. Christian mosaics were plastered over in accordance with Islamic tradition.

Then, in 1934, Atatürk secularized the building, and it reopened as a museum — a place where both faiths and cultures could be appreciated side by side.

In 2020, however, Hagia Sophia was re-designated as a mosque once again.

A Personal Reflection

I have complicated feelings about Hagia Sophia’s reconversion in 2020. I first visited Hagia Sophia years ago, when it was still a museum, and as a child I saw it as a symbol of unity — proof that faiths can coexist and that human creativity transcends religion. It celebrated both Christianity and Islam, and everyone could stand together beneath that majestic dome.

When I returned in 2024, things felt different. Tourists and non-Muslims can now access only a small section of the upper gallery, while the main prayer hall is reserved for worshippers. Standing above, looking down at areas I once explored freely, I couldn’t help but feel a little sad — as though a place that once represented togetherness had quietly become a symbol of division.

Visiting Information

• Tickets: €25–30 (depending on where you buy; we purchased ours from the ticket office in front as the queue was moving fast).
• Museum Pass: Not valid here, as Hagia Sophia is now an active mosque.
• Entrances: Two separate entrances — one for worshippers (Prayer Entrance) and one for tourists. At the tourist entrance, there are two lines (Tickets and Security).
• Visiting hours: This is the only mosque in Istanbul open to tourists during prayer times, but it’s closed to non-worshippers on Fridays during midday prayers.
• Dress Code: Modest clothing required. Shoulders and knees must be covered; women must wear a headscarf (available for purchase outside).
• Access: Since January 2024, visitors are limited to the upper gallery only.
• Artifacts: Many of Hagia Sophia’s historical artifacts have been moved to the nearby Hagia Sophia History Museum, located near the Hippodrome. Entry requires a separate ticket (in 2024 it was around €25, in addition to the main Hagia Sophia ticket).

So, was it worth paying an extra €25 to visit the Hagia Sophia History Museum? Honestly… not really.

While the museum was nicely curated and we were curious to see what was inside, it didn’t quite justify the extra cost. If you’re short on time or trying to budget your trip, I’d say save your money and spend it elsewhere.

Blue Mosque

Just across a small park from the Hagia Sophia stands its equally stunning neighbor — the Sultanahmet Mosque, better known as the Blue Mosque. The two landmarks are so close that you can easily visit both in one go, and seeing them face each other is truly one of Istanbul’s most iconic views.

The Blue Mosque was built between 1609 and 1617 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I. It earned its nickname from the breathtaking interior, decorated with more than 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles featuring tulips, roses, carnations, and lilies, all glowing softly under the light of 260 windows.

One of its most distinctive features is its six minarets. Most mosques in Istanbul have only two or four, but legend has it that this unusual number came from a simple misunderstanding: when Sultan Ahmed requested altın minaret (gold minarets), the architect supposedly heard altı minaret — meaning six minarets!

Visiting Information

• Entrance: Free for everyone.
• Opening Hours: The mosque is open daily, but it closes during prayer times, so it’s best to check the schedule before you go. https://namazvakitleri.diyanet.gov.tr/en-US/9541/prayer-time-for-istanbul
• Dress Code: Modest clothing is required. Shoulders and knees must be covered, and women must wear a headscarf. If needed, shawls and outer garments are provided free of charge at the entrance.

Basilica Cistern

Beneath the lively streets of Istanbul lies one of the city’s most atmospheric attractions — the Basilica Cistern, or Yerebatan Sarayı, meaning “Sunken Palace.” Originally located beneath the grand Stoa Basilica – hence the name, this underground reservoir was built in 532 AD during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It’s an architectural wonder featuring 336 marble columns, many of which were salvaged from ancient Greek and Roman ruins.

Spanning nearly 10,000 square meters and capable of holding 80,000 cubic meters of water, the Basilica Cistern once supplied water to Constantinople’s Great Palace. After the Ottoman conquest, it gradually fell out of use and was forgotten for centuries — until it was rediscovered in the 19th century. Following careful restoration, it reopened to the public in 1987 as a museum and event space.

But the real showstoppers here are the two Medusa heads — mysterious carvings tucked beneath two of the columns. Out of 336 pillars, only these two feature faces, and no one truly knows their origin or purpose. Were they placed upside down intentionally to ward off evil spirits? Or simply reused from another ancient site? Theories abound, but the mystery only adds to the magic of the place.

Even though it was quite crowded during our visit, we still managed to find quiet corners for photos (just note that tripods aren’t allowed, so you’ll need a steady hand!). The lighting changes every few minutes, bathing the space in shifting hues — from deep red to cool blue — and there are small art installations scattered throughout, which make exploring even more interesting. Despite the crowds, we really enjoyed our visit and would definitely recommend it.

You’ll find the entrance opposite the west side of the Hagia Sophia, between Alemdar Street and Yerebatan Street. Be prepared — the queue can be enormous, so I highly recommend buying tickets online in advance. If the line isn’t long, you can buy tickets on-site, but note that daytime tickets are slightly cheaper than evening ones.

👉 For the latest ticket info, check the official website: yerebatan.com/en/basilica-cistern/visit-info/

⚠️ Also, keep in mind that the Basilica Cistern isn’t part of the Ministry of Culture, so the Museum Pass is not valid here.

Tokapi Palace

Perched on the shores of the Bosphorus, Topkapi Palace was the beating heart of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years. It served not only as the empire’s administrative center but also as the lavish home of many Ottoman sultans.

Originally commissioned by Sultan Mehmed II to celebrate the conquest of Constantinople, construction began in 1460 and continued until 1478. Back then, it was known simply as the New Palace. Over the centuries, each sultan added new wings, courtyards, and pavilions, expanding it into the sprawling complex we see today.

By the late 19th century, the royal court had moved to the more modern Dolmabahçe Palace, and after the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Topkapi was transformed into a museum at the founding of the Republic of Türkiye. Covering around 350 hectares, the palace is enormous — a true city within a city.

The complex is divided into four main courtyards, each seamlessly connected and filled with pavilions, kitchens, libraries, mosques, baths, reception halls, and of course, the Harem — one of the most fascinating sections of all. Other highlights include the Imperial Treasury, the Harem, and the Sacred Relics of the Prophet Muhammad.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Topkapi Palace is one of Istanbul’s most visited landmarks, attracting over three million visitors each year.

Our Visit

There’s a lot to see here, so don’t rush. We spent several hours wandering through the rooms and courtyards, admiring the intricate tilework, and enjoying the stunning views over the Bosphorus. Some areas were more captivating than others, but overall, it was well worth the visit.

We also paid extra to enter the Harem, and honestly — we’re glad we did! It was one of the most interesting and visually beautiful parts of the entire complex.

You can wear whatever you like throughout most of the palace, but note that the Sacred Relics Department requires shoulders and knees to be covered.

Practical Information

💸 Tickets: €45–50 — and yes, it’s pricey! I even found myself Googling ticket prices for famous landmarks worldwide, and this one is definitely near the top of the list.

🎟️ Museum Pass: Topkapi Palace is included in the Museum Card, but the Harem and Hagia Irene require separate tickets.

• You cannot buy a ticket for the Harem alone — it must be combined with a palace ticket.
• However, Hagia Irene can be visited separately.

📱 Audio Guide: You can either download the official app or rent a physical audio guide. If you choose the device, they’ll ask for your ID as a deposit — I’d recommend not selecting this option (identity theft is a real concern). The app is just safer.

🕘 Opening Hours (April 1 – October 1):

• Museum, Harem & Hagia Irene: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Closed: Every Tuesday

🔗 More Info:

• Official Topkapi Palace Website (Turkish Palaces Authority)
• Topkapi Palace Tickets & Audio Guide Info 

Hagia Irene

Hagia Irene was a huge surprise for us. We only went in because it was included with our Topkapi Palace combo ticket, and we figured — why not? But it ended up leaving a much bigger impression than we expected. It’s quite bare and raw inside compared to Istanbul’s other ornate landmarks, but there’s something deeply atmospheric about it. If you have 20 minutes to spare, definitely pop in — it’s absolutely worth it.

Located in the outer courtyard of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Irene holds a special place in history as the oldest church of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. Built around 337 AD by order of Emperor Constantine I — the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity — it was once the second-largest church in Istanbul, after Hagia Sophia. The name Hagia Irene translates to “Holy Peace” (from the Greek Hagia Eirene).

This early Byzantine-style structure was originally built on the remains of a pagan temple. Like Hagia Sophia, it was destroyed during the Nika Revolt in 532 AD and later rebuilt under Emperor Justinian.

Unlike Hagia Sophia, however, Hagia Irene was never converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in the 15th century. Instead, it became part of the Topkapi Palace grounds, serving various purposes over the centuries — from an arsenal for the Sultan’s Janissaries (elite soldiers) to a military museum.

Istanbul Archaeological Museum 

If you have some extra time — or you’re a real history buff — you might enjoy a visit to the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. We decided to go because my fiancé is a huge fan of museums and couldn’t resist checking it out.

The complex consists of three main parts: the Museum of the Ancient East, the Archaeological Museum, and the Islamic Art Museum.

It’s definitely interesting, with an impressive collection of ancient artifacts and sculptures, but unless you’re particularly into archaeology, it might not stand out compared to Istanbul’s other world-famous sights. If your schedule is tight, I’d say skip it and spend your time wandering the city’s historic streets or relaxing with a Turkish coffee instead.

Arasta Bazaar

Tucked just behind the Blue Mosque, the Arasta Bazaar is a small but vibrant market that gives you a nice taste of what to expect from Istanbul’s larger bazaars. It’s perfect if you want to browse without getting completely lost in a maze of stalls.

You’ll find handcrafted ceramics, carpets, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs — a good mix of traditional Turkish goods and tourist-friendly keepsakes. That said, be warned: this bazaar is very touristy (which isn’t surprising given its location right next to some of Istanbul’s biggest attractions). Prices tend to be on the higher side.

The Grand Bazaar

One of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, the Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı, meaning “Covered Market”) is an experience in itself. Its construction began shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, initiated by Sultan Mehmet II. Over the centuries, it grew into one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, spanning 61 streets, housing over 4,000 shops, and covering around 30,700 square meters. Today, it attracts millions of visitors every year — and is often considered one of the world’s first shopping malls.

If you love photography, this place is heaven — the colors, the lights, the people, the chaos — it’s impossible to take a bad shot. If you love shopping, even better! From carpets, lanterns, and ceramics to jewelry, spices, and souvenirs, there’s something for everyone. And even if you’re not planning to buy anything (like us), just wandering through the maze of stalls is an unforgettable experience. You don’t need a map — just let yourself get lost and follow whatever catches your eye.

How to Get There

• By Tram: Take the T1 line and get off at Çemberlitaş or Beyazıt–Kapalıçarşı station.
• By Metro: Take the M2 line (direction Yenikapı) and get off at Vezneciler. From there, it’s only a few minutes’ walk.
• There are 21 entrances, so no matter where you’re coming from, you’ll find your way in easily!

Opening Hours

Monday–Saturday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Closed: Sundays and the first day of religious holidays

How to Haggle

While we didn’t end up buying anything in the bazaar, I’ve learned a few useful haggling techniques from my travels (especially in India!) that definitely apply here:

• Never Look Too Interested — The more eager you seem, the less chance you have of getting a discount. There are dozens of shops selling similar items, so if the price feels high, walk away — the seller will often call you back with a better offer.
• Don’t Name Your Best Price First — Always let the seller start. Stay calm, seem uninterested, and be ready to leave. The more you look like you don’t need it, the better deal you’ll get.
• Know the Exchange Rate — Before negotiating, check how much the Turkish Lira is worth against your local currency so you don’t overpay.
• Shop Around — If you can’t agree on a price, don’t worry. There’s a good chance you’ll find the same item a few stalls away — often cheaper.

The Spice Market

Located in the Eminönü quarter of the Fatih district, the Spice Market (Mısır Çarşısı, meaning Egyptian Bazaar) is one of Istanbul’s most aromatic and colorful experiences. The name comes from Egypt’s historical role as a hub for exotic spices arriving from distant lands like India and Southeast Asia — a trade that dates all the way back to the time of Alexander the Great.

Construction of the market began in 1597 and was completed around 1664, as part of the Yeni Mosque (New Mosque) complex. The bazaar’s income originally helped support the upkeep of the mosque. Today, it remains one of Istanbul’s most famous covered markets, conveniently located right next to the Galata Bridge.

Inside, you’ll find around 85 shops selling everything from fragrant spices and teas to nuts, dried fruits, and increasingly, souvenirs. But it’s the visuals that make the Spice Market so enchanting — pyramids of colorful spices in deep reds, sunny yellows, earthy browns, and vibrant greens fill the stalls. Piles of glistening Turkish delight (lokum) in every imaginable flavor, and stacks of figs, apricots, and dates make the place a paradise for photographers (and anyone with a sweet tooth!).

Many vendors are happy to offer free samples, especially of Turkish delight, cheeses, olives, and dried fruits — a great way to taste before you buy.

When to Visit

• For a calmer experience: Go on a weekday morning, shortly after it opens (around 8:00–9:00 AM). You’ll have space to wander, take photos, and chat with shopkeepers.
• For the full buzz: Visit in the mid-afternoon or on a Saturday when the market is bursting with energy. Just note that it’s closed on Sundays and major religious holidays.

Our Experience

When we visited, the bazaar was absolutely packed — lively, colorful, and buzzing with energy. I could have stayed for hours taking photos of the stunning spice displays, but my fiancé was a bit overwhelmed by the crowds and eager to make a quick escape. 😅 Still, I loved it — bazaars like this are my happy place, and the pyramids of spices and teas make for some of the most beautiful photos you can take in Istanbul.

Galata Bridge

Stretching across the Golden Horn, the Galata Bridge connects Istanbul’s two sides.

On the upper deck, you’ll find dozens of fishermen lined up shoulder to shoulder, casting their lines into the sparkling waters below — a sight that’s become almost iconic. From here, you also get stunning panoramic views of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, and Istanbul’s skyline dotted with domes and minarets — including the Süleymaniye Mosque and the New Mosque (Yeni Cami).

Below, the lower deck offers a completely different vibe — a lively stretch of restaurants and cafés where you can sit down, enjoy a plate of freshly grilled fish, and watch the ferries glide by.

The Galata Bridge has quite a story behind it. The first version was a wooden bridge built in 1845. Since then, it’s been rebuilt several times — in 1863, 1875, and 1912. That last bridge stood until 1992, when it was badly damaged by fire. The current bridge, completed in 1994, is the one we walk across today. The lower-deck restaurant area was opened to the public later, in 2003.

We first crossed the bridge midday, on our way and back from Galata Tower, taking time to explore both levels. Later, I came back at night with my camera, and I’m so glad I did. The bridge is absolutely magical after dark — lights reflecting off the water, ferries gliding past, and the city’s skyline glowing in the distance. It’s one of the best spots in Istanbul for night photography, hands down.

Galata tower

Standing 67 meters tall in the heart of Istanbul, the Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi) is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Originally built during the Byzantine period, it has gone through many transformations over the centuries — serving as a watchtower, prison, and even an observatory at different points in history.

Today, it’s best known for offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Istanbul. From the top, you can see the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, and the city’s sea of rooftops stretching endlessly into the distance.

Unfortunately, when we visited, the tower was closed for renovations, so we didn’t get to enjoy that famous view — a perfect excuse to come back one day!

Even if you can’t go inside, the area around Galata Tower is still worth exploring. It’s full of cute cafés, boutique shops, and cobbled streets.

Dolmabahçe Palace

Commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid I in 1843 and completed in 1856, Dolmabahçe Palace was built to replace the aging Topkapi Palace as the main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. It symbolized the empire’s desire to modernize, blending European architectural styles such as Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical with traditional Ottoman design.

Dolmabahçe became the primary residence of the later Ottoman sultans, and after the fall of the empire, it also served as the final residence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Türkiye.

The interiors of Dolmabahçe are absolutely breathtaking — dripping with chandeliers, gold leaf, and polished marble. Unfortunately, photography isn’t allowed inside, so you’ll have to take it all in with your eyes (and memory!). Only the gardens and exterior areas permit photos.

Even so, the experience was unforgettable. The opulence and décor could easily rival Versailles or any of Europe’s grand palaces. Every room felt like a masterpiece, and I couldn’t stop thinking how much I wished I could have captured it on camera!

After exploring the interior, we took a leisurely stroll through the gardens, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and admiring the views across the Bosphorus — the perfect way to end the visit.

Fascinating Facts 

• The palace is home to the world’s largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, located in the Ceremonial Hall — it has 750 lamps and weighs over 4.5 tons!
• With hundreds of chandeliers throughout the building, Dolmabahçe holds the largest crystal collection in the world.
• More than 100 kilograms of gold were used to decorate the walls and ceilings — pure, dazzling extravagance.

Visitor Info

📍 Official Website: millisaraylar.gov.tr – Dolmabahçe Palace

🕘 Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

🚫 Closed: Mondays

Süleymaniye Mosque

While wandering through the neighborhood, we stumbled upon an impressive-looking mosque and decided to peek inside — and what a beautiful surprise it turned out to be!

The Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) is one of Istanbul’s most striking landmarks, designed by the legendary Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. Considered one of his greatest masterpieces and his largest architectural work, it took eight years to complete, finishing in 1557. The mosque was commissioned as a grand tribute to Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, the longest-reigning sultan of the Ottoman Empire (1520–1566).

Just outside the mosque, you’ll find a peaceful cemetery that holds the tombs of Sultan Süleyman himself and his beloved wife, Haseki Hürrem (Roxelana).

Entry to the mosque is free, and it offers a much calmer, more reflective experience compared to the ever-crowded Blue Mosque. The grounds are spacious, surrounded by a large courtyard and serene gardens.

From the terrace area, you can enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn — especially beautiful at sunset.

Boat tour

One of the best ways to experience Istanbul is from the water. The city quite literally straddles two continents — Europe and Asia — and seeing it from the Bosphorus Strait gives you a whole new perspective. Countless companies offer boat tours, from short sightseeing cruises to full-day trips and even romantic sunset dinners on the water.

But instead of splurging on a private cruise, we decided to go for a budget-friendly adventure and hopped on one of the public ferries that locals use every day to commute between the city’s European and Asian sides. It cost no more than a regular public transport ticket, and honestly, the views were just as amazing!

We caught our ferry at Karaköy Pier (right next to the Galata Bridge) and sailed across the Bosphorus to Kadıköy, on the Asian side. After exploring a bit, we took another ferry back from Kadıköy to Kabataş, conveniently located near Dolmabahçe Palace.

Kadıköy Market

Once we docked on the Asian side at Kadıköy, I couldn’t resist checking out the Kadıköy Market — and I’m so glad I did. Unlike the busy, tourist-packed bazaars on the European side, Kadıköy’s market feels authentic and local, offering a glimpse into everyday Istanbul life.

The Kadıköy Bazaar area is famous for its greengrocers, fishmongers, spice stalls, patisseries, taverns, cafés, and pubs — a vibrant mix of colors, aromas, and flavors. It might not have the grandeur of the Grand Bazaar or the intensity of the Spice Market, but that’s exactly what makes it special.

Here, locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, olives, cheeses, and sweets to stock their kitchens.

Taksim

Taksim is technically a public square in the Beyoğlu district, but when locals say “Taksim,” they usually mean the entire surrounding area — Taksim Square, Istiklal Avenue, and the lively streets that branch off from it. The square itself has long been a symbolic gathering place and has seen its fair share of historic protests, but today, it’s best known as the energetic, modern center of Istanbul.

From Taksim Square, you can take a leisurely stroll down Istiklal Street, a 1.4-kilometer stretch that buzzes with life day and night. It’s packed with shops, cafés, restaurants, and street performers, and is one of the busiest streets in the city.

Running right through Istiklal is the famous Taksim–Tünel Nostalgic Tram (T2 line) — a charming red tram that connects Taksim Square with Tünel Square. The ride takes only about 15 minutes, but it’s a fun way to soak up the atmosphere (if you can squeeze on!). It looked great… but honestly, it was way too crowded when I visited, so I decided to skip it and enjoy walking instead.

Taksim is famous for its bars and meyhanes (traditional Turkish taverns where locals sip rakı and share meze), and if you’re looking to experience Istanbul’s nightlife, this is the place to be.

I decided to simply stroll down Istiklal, pop into a few shops, and soak up the atmosphere. And of course, I couldn’t help but notice the endless kebab shops lining the side streets. Since I somehow hadn’t had a kebab yet in Istanbul, I picked a small spot tucked away in a back alley — and it was incredible.

The food was so good that I dragged my fiancé back the next day so he could try it too. The best part? It was unbelievably cheap compared to restaurants close to popular tourist attractions — a full kebab and Ayran (a Turkish yogurt drink) for just 60 lira (around €1.20)!

After hours of exploring, my feet were done. I found a foot massage place nearby, and honestly — it was one of the best massages I’ve ever had. If you’re in the area and need to recharge, I can’t recommend it enough: Google Maps Location!

Hammam

After a few nonstop days of walking and sightseeing through Istanbul, we decided to slow down — and that’s how we discovered the magic of the Turkish hammam (bathhouse).

We visited the historic Süleymaniye Hamamı, built in the 1500s by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan. From the hot marble chamber to the exfoliating scrub and dreamy foam massage — it was 90 minutes of pure bliss.

We walked out feeling refreshed, relaxed, and literally glowing.

If you’re visiting Istanbul, this experience is a must. Read more about what to expect in hammam here.

Ottoman Photoshoot

Our travel tradition: dressing up in local outfits wherever we go! In Istanbul, that meant a royal Ottoman-style photoshoot near Hagia Sophia.
We loved the costumes and the vibe — but the photo selection part? Not so much. 😅 Here’s our full review + what we wish we knew before going.

Cats

You really can’t talk about Istanbul without mentioning its cats — they’re everywhere! Lounging on ancient ruins, napping on café chairs, sunbathing on car roofs… the cats of Istanbul truly run the city.

What makes them so special is that, while they’re not formally adopted, they’re cared for by everyone. Locals leave out bowls of food and water along sidewalks and in alleyways.

For centuries, cats have been revered in Turkish and Islamic culture, often seen as symbols of good fortune and protection.

Even though the cats looked incredibly friendly, we decided to admire them from a distance (getting scratched and needing a tetanus shot didn’t sound like a fun souvenir 😅). But I had an absolute blast photographing them — they’re ridiculously photogenic and somehow always find the best backdrops in the city!

Where to stay

If it’s your first time in Istanbul, I’d highly recommend staying in the Sultanahmet area. This is the heart of the old city, right next to major landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern. Most of the top sights are just a short walk away — which your feet will definitely appreciate after a full day of exploring!

Hotels here do tend to be a bit more expensive, as it’s a popular area for tourists, but the convenience is hard to beat. The only real downside is that many restaurants cater to tourists, so while the food is good, it’s often priced on the higher side. But hey – you’re paying for the location, so I suppose it’s a fair trade-off.

If you decide to stay outside Sultanahmet, make sure you’re near a tram or metro stop. As long as you’re connected to public transport, getting around is easy and quick. Istanbul is absolutely massive, so I’d still recommend staying relatively close to the city center to avoid spending too much time commuting.

Here are a few areas worth checking out:

• Sirkeci – just two tram stops from Sultanahmet, super convenient and slightly cheaper.
• Taksim / Beyoğlu – vibrant nightlife, tons of restaurants, and a modern vibe.
• Karaköy – trendy cafés and beautiful Bosphorus views.
• Eminönü (Fatih district) – full of history, with a more local feel.

No matter where you stay, Istanbul’s charm and energy will find you — but your tired legs might thank you for choosing somewhere central!