Bored In Istanbul: 17 Different Things To Do In 2024

A first time visit to Istanbul would not be complete with seeing the wonders that are the Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. It should be at the top of the to do list.

These are some of the classic sights to visit in Istanbul that you’ll find it in every guidebook and travel blog. With so many places to visit in this timeless city, it’s hard to be bored, but if you look beyond the surface, there are even more experiences that will make your trip truly memorable.

With my many visits to Istanbul, starting with my first trip here nearly two decades ago, I’ve compiled a list of recommended experiences for friends who want to do more than just sight-see.

17 Unique Experiences and Special Things To Do In Istanbul

1. Sip On Turkish Sand Coffee

Lovers of strong coffee will enjoy the unique taste of Turkish coffee, but for even better experience, you should find a place that brews it with sand, called Közde Kahve. Instead of a stove, the coffee pot, called a cezve, sits in hot sand, and uses the heat to quickly brew the coffee. The hot sand distributes the strong heat evenly and directly onto the cezve, which quickly boils the coffee.

Watching the process is almost as satisfying as sipping the rich, aromatic coffee itself. A trained hand will lift the cezve from the sand just as it’s boiling over, allowing it to quickly cool, before placing it back on the heat. This is repeated 3 or 4 terms before the coffee is served. The extra fine grounds settle and the bottom and you’re left with a strong yet smooth cup of coffee.

In Istanbul, there are a lot of places serving coffee this way just to attract tourists, but it’s still a nice visual experience for coffee lovers.

I had nice coffees at Nostalgia Cafe in Karakoy at Cafe 23 in Kadikoy where you can also get your fortune read from the coffee grounds.

2. Visit A Turkish Coffee Fortune Teller

After finishing your cup of Turkish coffee, a fortune teller, or “falcı,” can read your fortune from the coffee grounds left in the cup. This ancient tradition, known as “tasseography,” is deeply rooted in Turkish culture and you can find this experience around Istanbul. Whether you believe in the predictions or not, the ritual itself offers a fascinating insight into this Turkish custom and provides a fun and memorable experience.

You can do a reading with your coffee at Symbol Cafe in Taksim.

Or even better, near how to brew Turkish coffee in sand the traditional way and then how to do your own coffee readings in this neat workshop. You even get to keep a Turkish coffee making set as a take-home souvenir.

3. Secret Rooftop Views

Istanbul is known for its stunning skyline, where minarets, domes, and modern buildings converge to create a breathtaking panorama. While popular viewpoints like Galata Tower or the Galata Bridge are great for sunsets, they also draw massive crowds.

Instead, find your way to one of the many hidden rooftops scattered throughout the city offering equally magnificent views with a serenity more befitting the vista.

These spots can be atop cafes, boutique hotels, or just on top of buildings. Finding these hidden gems is adventure in itself and when you get a place all to yourself, it’s even more special. Just be careful when exploring and don’t trespass or do anything illegal to get to a spot.

Personally, I don’t recommend trying to look up any “secret” spots, because if you can find it on the first page of Google, it’s probably not so secret. If a place inadvertently gets infamous through social media, you can bet that the locals put a stop to that.

I have stumbled across a few, and I’ve found most of them simply by talking to people, whether it’s the owner of a restaurant or a hotel. I’m always asking people where is their favorite view of Istanbul. Most are delighted to share, and once in a while, you get gifted something special.

4. Fish With The Locals On Galata Bridge

Fishing off Galata Bridge is more than just a pastime for Istanbul’s locals – it’s a tradition and daily way of life. Almost anytime of day, you’ll find a line-up of people tossing their lines off the bridge and hauling in their catches of sardines, mackerel and other small fishes.

You’re welcome to join in, and there are stands on the bridge that sell everything you need to get fishing in the Bosphorus. Even if you’re not there to catch your dinner, you’ll experience an authentic slice of daily life in Istanbul and get the chance to engage with the locals. Let your mind relax for a couple of hours while you enjoy the view and soak in the atmosphere.

Whether you catch something or not, you can still always enjoy a fresh catch. Scattered along the waterfront are little make-shift grills where fisherman cook up mouth-watering grilled fish wraps called Balik Durum. It’s one of the items on my list of the special dishes and drinks you have to try in Istanbul.

5. Wander Down Cicek Pasaji

Cicek Pasaji, or the Flower Passage, is a historic arcade in the heart of Istanbul that dates back to the late 19th century. It reminds me of those ornate shopping gallery in Italy like the Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II in Milan.

Once a flower market, it’s now lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and taverns. The passage is a photographer’s dream, with its beautifully preserved architecture, lively atmosphere, and at times, dramatic lighting. The enticing aromas wafting from the eateries aren’t bad either.

A walk through Cicek Pasaji feels like stepping back in time, showcasing a side of old Istanbul’s elegance. I like to come here just to have a slow cup of coffee.

6. Bike The Theodosian Walls

The Theodosian Walls once protected Constantinople from invaders and was nearly impregnable for a millennia. Today, the remnants are an extraordinary piece of history that stretches across Istanbul.

You can head to the Chora  or the Golden Gate to see a part of the Walls of Constantinople, but biking along its path is a different way to see the different sections while burning off the calories from all those baklavas. The route has sections that pass through quiet, tree-lined areas and others that provide stunning views of the city.

Great for history buffs and adventure seekers who don’t mind venturing outside the city center. You can even rent an e-bike if biking is a bit too strenuous.

7. Explore The Spice Market At Dawn

Close to Galata Bridge and Eminonu Pier, you’ll find the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar or the Bazaar. After the Grand Bazaar itself, it’s one of the most famous shopping complex in Istanbul and definitely worth wandering through.

While the spices, tea, desserts, and other things are overpriced here, it is pretty photogenic and will charm who value atmosphere more than bargain. But that shouldn’t stop you from actually bargaining and having some fun looking for Turkish souvenirs.

As a photographer, I love spice markets for their colorful and fragrant displays. A visit at dawn gives you a special experience as the vendors set up their stalls for the day before the crowds arrive.

The early morning light only enhances the bazaar’s beauty, pouring in through the small windows above the shops. It’s an ideal time to soak in the ambiance and enjoy the walk at a leisurely pace.

Alternatively, join my favorite food tour in Istanbul and go on a crazy food adventure starting at the Spice Bazaar and finishing across the Bosphorus in Kadikoy. This is one of my best recommendations for Istanbul.

8. Take The Second Oldest Underground Train In The World

The Tünel is not only a convenient way to travel between Karaköy and İstiklal Avenue but also a journey back in time. Built in 1875, it’s the second-oldest underground railway in the world, after London’s Underground.

The short ride gives you a chance to experience vintage charm of the train cabin and go through some of Istanbul’s most vibrant areas. The train has been in service of the city for nearly 150 years and it’s a shame to miss it when it’s right there.

9. Get A Full Body Scrub At A Turkish Bath Hamam

A visit to a traditional Turkish bath, or hamam, is a quiessential Istanbul experience for me. Public bathing and full body scrubs exist in many different cultures and regions, but if you’re not from one of those places, it is such a treat.

These sometimes centuries-old establishments combine invigorating bathing experience with beautiful architecture. Inside, the warm marble, steam, and the sounds of trickling water from the fountains create a calming escape from the hustle of the city. The highlight of the hamam experience, of course, is the full body scrub and foam massage, where you’ll be soaped up and exfoliated with a coarse mitt, leaving your skin feeling baby soft.

TIP: In a touristy city like Istanbul, you get what you pay for. Avoid the tourist trap hamams in the center with a man at the door trying to get you to come in. For me, it’s about the experience, not just the act of bathing and scrubbing.

If it’s your first time, I recommend Hürrem Sultan Hamami or Cagaloglu Hamami, both in the Sultanahmet area. The architecture is stunning and I found their service and experience better for people unfamiliar with the process.

They are popular, so book in advance to get a good time slot. You can book directly on their websites, but I prefer GetYourGuide here because it’s the same price, easier and you get free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

BOOK HERE: Hürrem Hamam | Cagaloglu Hamam

There are more local establishments that are cheaper and arguably more “authentic,” where locals come regularly for a no-frills experience. But, in practice, unless you speak Turkish, it can feel a bit disorienting and underwhelming.

10. Go Underground To the Binbirdirek Cistern

While the Basilica Cistern is the more famous of the subterranean cisterns, the Binbirdirek Cistern or the Cistern of Philoxenosis, is less crowded. The ancient water reservoir, dating back to the 4th century, is the second largest in the city and offers a quieter, more intimate exploration. Because it is drained, you can walking among the towering columns instead of just a raised pathway.

The dim lighting gives this place an eerie but fascinating atmosphere. The location and entrance is here.

11. Eat Mouthwatering Cag Kebab

With so many different meat dishes, Cag Kebab stands out for me as a must-try for meat lovers visiting Istanbul. Unlike the more common doner kebab, Cag Kebab is made from marinated lamb that’s slow-cooked on a horizontal spit. You end up with tender, flavorful meat that’s sliced off and served on skewers and served with a warm side of flatbread.

The smoky, savory taste is truly unforgettable, and there are a few places in Istanbul that are famous for this delicacy.

You can try it at Şehzade Cağ Kebap.

12. Visit The Pudding Shop

The “Pudding Shop” is a historic cafe right in the middle of Sultanahmet, near the Hagia Sophia. In 60s and 70s, the restaurant was a legendary meeting point for travelers on the “Hippie Trail” from Europe to Asia, where they exchanged stories and travel tips. The restaurant also posted a bulletin where people could hitch rides and  connect with other travelers.

The place is called Lale Restaurant, but travelers just referred to it as the “Pudding Shop” when passing on the information.

Rare in today’s world, the Pudding Shop still preserves a lot of its nostalgic charm with the walls showcasing notes and memorabilia from its heyday. For travelers, visiting is more to appreciate the history of this iconic spot that once served as a hub for global adventurers.

13. Take a Boat from Europe Turkey to Asia Turkey

Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents – Europe and Asia. Taking a ferry ride across the Bosphorus is easy and you can say that you just crossed into Asia. The ride alone is worth it for its spectacular views of the city’s skyline, with its minarets, domes, and modern skyscrapers. When you cross the strait to Kadikoy, a whole different of Istanbul opens up.

It’s one of my favorite areas to wander around and explore.

14. Explore The Art Museums

With so many beautiful buildings and historic sights in Istanbul, it’s easy to overlook things like art museums. But in fact, from the ancient artifacts at the Istanbul Archaeological Museums to the contemporary works at Istanbul Modern, the city has world class art.

The Pera Museum, housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, offers a mix of Ottoman and Orientalist art, while the Sakıp Sabancı Museum showcases a stunning collection of calligraphy, manuscripts, and paintings.

Personally, if I had to choose one, I’d check out the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art overlooking the Bosphorus.

15. Go Vintage Shopping On Serdar-i Ekrem

Serdar-i Ekrem Street, located in the Galata neighborhood, is the go-to spot for vintage seekers. This charming street is lined with boutiques and shops offering everything from antique furniture to retro clothing and accessories. Going through the offerings gives you a sense of Istanbul’s eclectic style – that mixes the East and West as well as the old and new.

In general, it’s a nice area to escape to for its cafes and art galleries, making it a great place to spend an afternoon.

16. Eat At A Lokantasi

Lokantasi are traditional Turkish eateries that offer home-cooked meals in a cozy, communal setting.Not only do they have a huge selection to choose from, but a lot of the dishes are not found in other restaurants.

These establishments are where locals go for a quick, hearty, and affordable meal, often during lunch hours. You’ll usually find a variety of stews, grilled meats, vegetables, and soups. Eating at a lokantasi gives you that experience of everyday Turkish cuisine. Grab a tray, choose your meals, and find any seat available. Sometimes you’ll even be sitting eating shoulder-to-shoulder with locals having their daily meals.

When I don’t have something specific in mind, I just head to the closet lokantasi.

Check out the Hayata Saril Lokantasi and Balkan Lokantasi in Taksim, Buyruk Esnaf Lokfantasi and Balkan Restaurant in Sultanahmet, or Sercini Special Lokantasi in Kadikoy.

17. Visit Prince’s Island

It’s a shame that most visits don’t know about the The Prince’s Islands that’s so close to Istanbul. It’s just a short ferry ride from the mainland to get to these car-free islands  that’s a stark departure from Istanbul. With charming wooden houses, lush pine forests, and tranquil beaches, it’s a perfect day-trip escape from the city.

The largest and most popular island, Büyükada, is a great place to explore by walking, biking, or even on a horse-drawn carriage.

Along its narrow streets, you’ll find historic mansions, quaint cafes, and stunning views of the Marmara Sea. After spending a few chaotic (in a good way) days in Istanbul, consider heading to the Prince’s Island to unwind and experience a different side of the city.

Last Thoughts and Tips On Things To Do In Istanbul

One of the things I remind my friends visiting Istanbul for the first time is to not pack too many things into one day. With a light and loose itinerary, you’ll have time for the inevitable shops, cafes, and other attractions that you’ll discover just from walking from place to place.

As far as visiting the historical sites in Istanbul, I cannot emphasize this part enough: get a tour guide or join a tour group. As beautiful as the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosques are on their own, it’s the city’s histories and stories that make these places so special.

The first time I visited Istanbul, I did it on my own. A few years later, I decided to join this reasonably priced walking tour to visit the main sites and it was so much better. This is coming from someone who doesn’t like taking group tours.

Lastly, consider special a day just focused on the food scene. I really like the Karakoy area on the Europe side and the Kadikoy area on the Asia side. And these the must-eat dishes you should try if you’re visiting Istanbul or Turkey for the first. time.

Looking for more travel inspirations? Scroll through some of the 450+ experiences on my bucket list. Maybe you’ll find your next adventure on there.

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Updated on November 22, 2024