Things to do in Istanbul Turkey

back to: Things to do in - All Locations

Activities, points of interest, things to do in locations all over the world! Contact Vincent Vacations to book your travel today!

Whirling Dervishes or Turkish Dance at Hodjapasha Center
Whirling Dervishes or Turkish Dance at Hodjapasha Center

Let the rhythmic moves of this arresting event transport you back to an Ottoman court where belly dancers and performers would entertain the sultan, or witness the mysterious ceremony of whirling derv...


Turkish Cooking Class with Lunch & Drinks by Sarnic Hotel
Turkish Cooking Class with Lunch & Drinks by Sarnic Hotel

An aromatic fusion of influences and traditions, Turkish cuisine is more than a kebab. Pick up new skills in the kitchen of an award-winning chef while you help prepare a traditional 5-course meal. Fe...


Scholar-Led Ottoman Architecture Small-Group Walking Tour
Scholar-Led Ottoman Architecture Small-Group Walking Tour

Led by a scholar trained in architecture, this tour introduces you to the elegant interiors mastered by the Ottomans. History meets present as you watch daily life pass by under towering minarets and ...


Scholar-Led Small-Group Hagia Sophia Seminar
Scholar-Led Small-Group Hagia Sophia Seminar

An architectural wonder of the world, the Hagia Sophia with its enormous domes, light-infused interior, and precious Byzantine mosaics takes your breath away. A scholar guide reveals secrets from the ...


Scholar-Led Istiklal Street Small-Group Walking Tour
Scholar-Led Istiklal Street Small-Group Walking Tour

Istanbul’s present is as intriguing as is its past, evidenced by the fashionable crowds on Istiklal Avenue, a nearly-mile-long (1.4-km) elegant shopping street on the city’s European side. Walk along ...


Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, Belly-Dance Show & Live Music by Plan Tours
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, Belly-Dance Show & Live Music by Plan Tours

Breathtaking views open up as you cruise the Bosphorus strait, which divides Europe from Asia. Stunning sites such as the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace provide the backdrop as you enjoy Turkish cuisi...


Bosphorus Cruise & Dolmabahçe Palace
Bosphorus Cruise & Dolmabahçe Palace

Panoramic views of the Golden Horn, the thrilling chaos of the Spice Bazaar, and the unbelievable opulence of the Dolmabahçe Palace are all revealed on this comprehensive day out in Istanbul. Relax on...


Turkish Night with Dinner & Belly Dance Show by Plan Tours
Turkish Night with Dinner & Belly Dance Show by Plan Tours

The tale “One Thousand and One Nights” comes alive in an exclusive club in Istanbul. Savor a 3-course dinner, then sit back and enjoy the spectacle of fiery belly dancers in sparkling costumes dancing...


Sightseeing Cruise on the Bosphorus
Sightseeing Cruise on the Bosphorus

Your Istanbul trip isn’t complete without sailing the Bosphorus. Jaw-dropping views of iconic landmarks glide by as you take a break in the comfort of a private boat. Options include either a taste of...


Bosphorus Champagne Sunset Cruise
Bosphorus Champagne Sunset Cruise

Few places in the world are as mesmerizing as Istanbul in the setting sun. Aboard an elegant yacht, drinking champagne and nibbling on crudités and fruits from tastefully arranged platters, you glide ...


Dolmabahçe Palace & 2 Continents Tour
Dolmabahçe Palace & 2 Continents Tour

An impressive marble façade overlooking the Bosphorus suggests there’s unparalleled opulence to marvel at behind the ornamental gates of Dolmabahçe Palace. Across the strait another continent beckons,...


Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar & Topkapi Palace Full-Day Tour
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar & Topkapi Palace Full-Day Tour

Witness the classic sites of heritage and history that abound in Istanbul on your full-day tour. Visit architectural masterpieces, marvel at awe-inspiring, Byzantine-era tile-works, and see the imperi...


Bosphorus Cruise & 2 Continents Full-Day Tour with Lunch
Bosphorus Cruise & 2 Continents Full-Day Tour with Lunch

This full-day tour takes you on a journey through Istanbul's lesser-known Asian side. Learn about the city's 2 continents and cruise along the strait that forms a boundary between Europe and Asia. Upo...


Bosphorus Cruise & Istanbul
Bosphorus Cruise & Istanbul's Egyptian Spice Bazaar by Travelium

As you cruise the calm waters that divide 2 continents but only 1 city, take in the iconic monuments that line both the European and Asian shores. Later, experience the vibrant pulse of one of Istanbu...


Cruise to the Princes
Cruise to the Princes' Islands with Lunch

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city life, spend a day sailing, and visit the charming Princes’ Islands. Sit back, take a break, and feel the Turkish air against your skin as you island-hop along ...


Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar Half-Day Tour
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar Half-Day Tour

History and culture are around every corner on your journey through Istanbul. Discover the Hippodrome, the mighty Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia Basilica. See how traditions live on and are still part ...


Camlica Hills, Bosphorus Bridge & Beylerbeyi Palace Half-Day Tour
Camlica Hills, Bosphorus Bridge & Beylerbeyi Palace Half-Day Tour

Leave Europe and venture into Asia by crossing one of the world's longest bridges. Once over the Bosphorus, visit an elegant summer residence of Ottoman sultans and marvel at the city’s skyline from C...


Private Full-Day Tour of the Old City by Travelium
Private Full-Day Tour of the Old City by Travelium

Discover Istanbul’s historic peninsula, Sultanahmet, also known as the Old City, on your comprehensive private tour. From the historic Hippodrome and bustling Grand Bazaar, to towering minarets and do...


Private Half-Day Tour of the Old City by Travelium
Private Half-Day Tour of the Old City by Travelium

Explore the splendor of The Old City of Istanbul on this private-half day tour. Visit the must-see Hippodrome, the resplendent Blue Mosque, the magnificent Hagia Sophia Basilica, and the bargain-induc...


Topkapi Palace & Rustem Pasha Mosque Afternoon Tour
Topkapi Palace & Rustem Pasha Mosque Afternoon Tour

Admire the Ottomon treasures of the grand Topkapi Palace residence and the precious Iznik tiles of the Rustem Pasha Mosque. This guided half-day tour lets you hear stories and explore the history of t...


Magical Golden Horn (Eyüp) & Pierre Loti Half-Day Tour
Magical Golden Horn (Eyüp) & Pierre Loti Half-Day Tour

Take a trip to the Eyüp district—Istanbul's first Ottoman Turkish settlement—and explore the historical importance of the Golden Horn inlet. On your half-day guided tour, admire breathtaking views of ...


Turkish Baths Experience at Cemberlitas Hamam with Private Transfer
Turkish Baths Experience at Cemberlitas Hamam with Private Transfer

Enjoy some rest and take a breakation with a visit to the Cemberlitas Hamam, one of the most well-preserved hamams in Istanbul, and experience the old-age tradition of a Turkish bath. Revel in the hea...


Small-Group Old & New Istanbul Walking Tour by Urban Adventures
Small-Group Old & New Istanbul Walking Tour by Urban Adventures

To truly understand the culture of a city, you look to the past as much as the present. Discover the best of traditional and modern Istanbul on this guided walking tour through historic Taksim and liv...


Small-Group Istanbul Uncovered Tour by Urban Adventures
Small-Group Istanbul Uncovered Tour by Urban Adventures

Discover vibrant Istanbul—Turkey's largest city—and soak up the history and culture brimming around every corner. From popular sights to hidden gems, this guided walking tour ensures you see the fines...


Small-Group Home Cooked Meal by Urban Adventures
Small-Group Home Cooked Meal by Urban Adventures

The smell of lentil soup and stuffed eggplant wafts towards the front door as your host family welcomes you into their home. Immerse yourself in Turkish culture by dining with a local family, then exp...


Private Luxury Car: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST)
Private Luxury Car: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST)

Enjoy convenient private transportation between Istanbul Ataturk Airport and your hotel in the comfort of a luxury car. For transfers to and from Istanbul Ataturk Airport, the zones to select from inc...


Private Luxury Car: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)
Private Luxury Car: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)

Enjoy convenient private transportation between Sabiha Gokcen Airport and your hotel in the comfort of a luxury car. For transfers to and from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport, the zones to select from ...


Private Standard Car: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST)
Private Standard Car: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST)

Enjoy convenient private transportation between Istanbul Ataturk Airport and your hotel in the comfort of a standard car. For transfers to and from Istanbul Ataturk Airport, the zones to select from i...


Private Minivan: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST)
Private Minivan: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST)

Enjoy convenient private transportation between Istanbul Ataturk Airport and your hotel in the comfort of a minivan. For transfers to and from Istanbul Ataturk Airport, the zones to select from includ...


Private Standard Car: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)
Private Standard Car: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)

Enjoy convenient private transportation between Sabiha Gokcen Airport and your hotel in the comfort of a standard car. For transfers to and from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport, the zones to select fro...


Private Minivan: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)
Private Minivan: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)

Enjoy convenient private transportation between Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport and your hotel in the comfort of a minivan. For transfers to and from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport, the zones to select...


Private Standard Car: Istanbul Port
Private Standard Car: Istanbul Port

Enjoy convenient private transportation between Istanbul Cruise Ship Terminal and your hotel in the comfort of a standard car. For transfers to and from Istanbul City Center, the zones to select from ...


Private Minivan: Istanbul Port
Private Minivan: Istanbul Port

Enjoy convenient private transportation between Istanbul Cruise Ship Terminal and your hotel in the comfort of a minivan. For transfers to and from Istanbul City Center, the zones to select from inclu...


Speedy Shuttle: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST)
Speedy Shuttle: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST)

Arrive at your hotel quickly by taking a shared Speedy Shuttle, which makes a maximum of 3 stops. For transfers to and from Istanbul Ataturk Airport, the zones to select from include: Istanbul City Ce...


Speedy Shuttle: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)
Speedy Shuttle: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)

Arrive at your hotel quickly by taking a shared Speedy Shuttle, which makes a maximum of 3 stops. For transfers to and from Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport, the zones to select from include: Istanbul C...


Small-Group Street Food Picnic on 2 Continents by Urban Adventures
Small-Group Street Food Picnic on 2 Continents by Urban Adventures

A trip to Istanbul is not complete without experiencing its traditional food, spices, and of course the famous Turkish Delights. Wander through Istanbul markets and the very special Spice Bazaar, wher...


Scholar-Led Immersion into Istanbul
Scholar-Led Immersion into Istanbul's Asian Side Walking Tour

Venture into Istanbul's lesser-known Asian side and uncover a part of the city that many miss. Explore diverse neighborhoods, admire panoramic views of the European side, and explore local monuments a...


Scholar-Led Galata by Night Walking Tour
Scholar-Led Galata by Night Walking Tour

Immerse yourself in Istanbul's colorful port nightlife as you explore the banks of Karaköy with a knowledgeable guide. Discover the diverse history of this renowned district and learn how it has devel...


Scholar-Led Turkish Art: Glamor & Grunge Walking Tour
Scholar-Led Turkish Art: Glamor & Grunge Walking Tour

Learn about the history and emergence of Turkish art on this walking tour led by an art historian. Explore creative districts of the city, meet local artists, and pass by venues that showcase the evol...


Small-Group Night Tasting Trail Tour by Urban Adventures
Small-Group Night Tasting Trail Tour by Urban Adventures

Immerse yourself in Turkish culture and explore Istanbul's culinary delights. Delve into the city's food scene as you sip anise-flavored raki and sample flaky borek, deep fried meatballs, mussels stu...


Traditional Turkish Shave
Traditional Turkish Shave

Treat yourself to the shave of a lifetime. A traditional Turkish shave gives you a perfectly clean-cut and smooth face, free from razor burn, cuts, or nicks. Visit a local barber shop with your guide ...


Culinary Treasures of Kadikoy Small-Group Walking Tour
Culinary Treasures of Kadikoy Small-Group Walking Tour

Spend a morning indulging in traditional specialties while exploreing the culture of the Asian side of Istanbul. Take advantage of a small-group setting of up to 12 food enthusiasts so you can have mo...


Small-Group Culinary Walking Tour of Beyoğlu by Night
Small-Group Culinary Walking Tour of Beyoğlu by Night

Beyoğlu —also known as Pera, is the cultural heart of the city’s art, cuisine, and entertainment scene. By night the district comes to life; explore the area’s back-streets, sample culinary delicacies...


Skip-the-Line Hagia Sophia & Grand Bazaar Small-Group Tour
Skip-the-Line Hagia Sophia & Grand Bazaar Small-Group Tour

Marvel at the majestic architecture of Agia Sophia as you’re guided through its charming interiors. Hear about its construction dating back to the 5th century, continue for a walk in Istanbul, and com...


Shopping Paradise Half-Day Experience
Shopping Paradise Half-Day Experience

Embark on a bargain-hunting journey and enjoy a small-group tour. Explore the ancient bazaars of a city bursting with local and exported goods. See and shop for unique scents, colorful ceramics, preci...


Small-Group City Tour with Skip-the-Line entrance to Topkapı Palace
Small-Group City Tour with Skip-the-Line entrance to Topkapı Palace

Marvel at the majestic architecture of Topkapı Palace as you're guided through its stunning interiors. Hear about its construction, dating back to 1465 AD, and then continue to the Istanbul city cente...


The Ancient City of Constantinople - Byzantine-Era Half-Day Tour
The Ancient City of Constantinople - Byzantine-Era Half-Day Tour

Step back in time, to the grandeur of the Byzantine era in Istanbul. Visit some of the most representative sites from that time and wander around the great city walls to learn more about the Eastern R...


Small-Group Golden Horn Tour: Eyüp Sultan Mosque & Tomb
Small-Group Golden Horn Tour: Eyüp Sultan Mosque & Tomb

Visit one of Istanbul’s most sacred sites at the Eyüp Sultan Mosque and Tomb. Continue to the famous Pierre Loti Coffee House, see the the Golden Horn from a high vantage point, and explore the impres...


Istanbul in One Day Small-Group Tour
Istanbul in One Day Small-Group Tour

Explore the best of Istanbul in a single day. Visit Topkapı Palace, explore the Blue Mosque, wander through the Cistern Basilica, stop at Hagia Sophia, indulge in a traditional Turkish meal, and end a...


Ottoman Splendors Small-Group Tour
Ottoman Splendors Small-Group Tour

On this small-group tour, step back in time to the Ottoman era and explore the wonders of this historic culture. Visit iconic places that bear rich heritage, including the world-famous Blue Mosque, th...


Imperial City Half-Day Tour
Imperial City Half-Day Tour

In Istanbul uncover vestiges of the city's imperial age on this enlightening tour of its significant sights and landmarks. Visit a vast museum with thousands of artifacts, see the masterful engineerin...


Culinary Secrets & Photography Tour
Culinary Secrets & Photography Tour

Uncover the Turkish capital's alluring highlights through the lense of your camera. Sample culinary delicacies and dishes popular among the locals and experience this historic city from the inside out...


Bursa, Green Mosque & Mount Olympus Small-Group Tour
Bursa, Green Mosque & Mount Olympus Small-Group Tour

Spend a day at the first capital of the Ottoman empire, learn about the birth of Turkish culture, and visit striking sites in the city, like the Green Mosque and the Green Mausoleum. Then venture up M...


Private Jewish Heritage Half-Day Tour
Private Jewish Heritage Half-Day Tour

For centuries a Jewish population has lived in Istanbul; hear some of that history while exploring famous sights pertaining to Judaism. From old residential areas, to long-standing synagogues your exp...


Real Madrid Live Soccer Match Tickets: 2014/2015 Season
Real Madrid Live Soccer Match Tickets: 2014/2015 Season

Real Madrid, one of the world's finest and most popular soccer clubs, electrifies crowds with a dynamic style of play in Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Cheer from the stands as striker Ronaldo and teammat...


Get a Lonely Planet Istanbul city guide eBook with all Istanbul ‘Things to Do’
Get a Lonely Planet Istanbul city guide eBook with all Istanbul ‘Things to Do’

Get a Lonely Planet Istanbul eBook when you purchase any activity or airport transfer for the same destination. Offer ends midnight Friday 10th April 2015. Qualifying purchases will trigger an email w...


Small-Group Complete City Tour: Bosphorus Cruise, Hagia Sophia & Bazaars
Small-Group Complete City Tour: Bosphorus Cruise, Hagia Sophia & Bazaars

See the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and Galata Tower—all in one day—and also take a Bosphorus cruise and dine on a traditional Turkish lunch. With skip-the...


Small Group Best of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern & Blue Mosque
Small Group Best of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern & Blue Mosque

Discover the best of historic Istanbul on this guided tour. Traveling in a small and intimate group, you can experience the benefit of having a licensed local guide as you skip long general queues at ...


Small-Group Asian Markets & Food Tour with Tastings
Small-Group Asian Markets & Food Tour with Tastings

Experience the best of Turkey’s renowned cuisine on this guided tour, which takes you across the Bosphorus by ferry for a more authentic experience in Kadıköy. Learn about local food and spices, and t...


Small-Group City Walking Tour with Bosphorus Cruise
Small-Group City Walking Tour with Bosphorus Cruise

Get a local’s point of view with this small-group, guided tour. Explore Istanbul by land, water, and even from the air at 2 city overlooks—1 of which is known only to locals. Learn how to haggle at th...


Private Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour
Private Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour

For most visitors, Topkapi Palace represents an incredibly foreign concept—a palace that once housed 4,000 people including concubines, eunuchs, sultans, and crowned princes. But how did it all work? ...


Shore Excursion: Istanbul in a Day
Shore Excursion: Istanbul in a Day

Explore the must-see sights in the Turkish capital, explore Byzantine and Ottoman monuments, and learn about the history and culture of Istanbul on this full-day tour. You also visit the Hagia Sophia,...


Skip the Line: Extended Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour
Skip the Line: Extended Topkapi Palace & Harem Tour

Get a fresh look at Topkapi Palace on this extended tour, and see new locations just recently opened to the public. Save time with skip-the-line entry and use your additional access tickets to visit t...


Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour by Big Bus
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour by Big Bus

Hop aboard a double-decker bus with 360-degree views and uncover everything that the bustling Istanbul has to offer. Explore iconic landmarks on 2 continents—Europe and Asia—such as the Bosphorus Brid...


Combo Saver: Sightseeing Tour & Turkish Night with Meals
Combo Saver: Sightseeing Tour & Turkish Night with Meals

Explore the treasure trove of sights in the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul on this combo tour to the city's major attractions. Visit the historic Topkapi Palace and the famous Hagia Sophia, and combin...


Combo Saver: Spice Bazaar, Bosporus Cruise & Turkish Night with Dinner
Combo Saver: Spice Bazaar, Bosporus Cruise & Turkish Night with Dinner

Explore a magical environment where east meets west as you see the sights of Istanbul that have impressed visitors from around the world. Browse the colorful Spice Bazaar, take a scenic cruise on the ...


Combo Saver: Imperial City Tour & Turkish Night
Combo Saver: Imperial City Tour & Turkish Night

Spend a day in the imperial city of Istanbul for an array of new experiences that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Visit attractions such as the majestic Hagia Sophia and the bustling Grand Baza...


Private Shore Excursion: Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
Private Shore Excursion: Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque

With visits to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sofia, the Roman Hippodrome, and the impressive Blue Mosque, this shore excursion offers a glimpse of history as you visit impressive sites symbolizing a glorious ...


Private Shore Excursion: Bosphorus Cruise & Dolmabahce Palace
Private Shore Excursion: Bosphorus Cruise & Dolmabahce Palace

On this excursion with a rich variety of activities, take a mini-cruise to the Bosphorus, visit the archaeological museum of Sadberk Hanim, see Dolmabahce Palace, and stop for a delicious Turkish lunc...


Turkish Coffee Trail Small-Group Tour
Turkish Coffee Trail Small-Group Tour

On this guided tour, get a taste of Turkish Delight and learn about the history of coffee—a popular national drink in Turkey with a long historical tradition. With a small group of 15 people, see smal...


Istiklal Street & Galata, Genoese Small-Group Walking Tour with Lunch
Istiklal Street & Galata, Genoese Small-Group Walking Tour with Lunch

Explore Istiklal Street, one of the liveliest and the most colorful streets of Istanbul. The avenue became a pedestrian street in 1988 and has been the center of the city nightlife for more 150 years....


Galata Half-Day Small-Group Walking Tour
Galata Half-Day Small-Group Walking Tour

On a small-group tour of Galata, see the renowned Galata Tower, synagogues, and the Kamondo Stairs in the ancient area. Bring your camera and your walking shoes on this excursion and enjoy convenient ...


Jewish District Small-Group Walking Tour
Jewish District Small-Group Walking Tour

Walk in Galata and find yourself in intriguing streets full of colorful life. Get a glimpse of synagogues, the Jewish Museum, Jewish Apartments, the amazing story of Abraham Camondo, and other Jewish ...


Small-Group Princes
Small-Group Princes' Islands Cruise & Büyükada Walking Tour

The Princes' Islands, once a retreat for exiled royalty, offer a charming setting for you to spend a day away from the bustle of Istanbul. Take a cruise to the largest of the islands and see mansions,...


Istanbul Aquarium & Aqua Florya Shopping Mall
Istanbul Aquarium & Aqua Florya Shopping Mall

Explore one of the world's leading aquariums for a look at the 15,000 land and sea creatures that make the Istanbul Aquarium their home. See environments built to recreate climates ranging between the...


Small-Group Dolmabahçe Palace Half-Day Tour
Small-Group Dolmabahçe Palace Half-Day Tour

The splendor of Dolmabahçe Palace, the last seat of power for the Ottoman Empire, invites you for this half-day tour. Explore the city that bridges Europe and Asia, look out over the Bosporus from Ist...


European Travel, Adventure Travel, Charter Bus Tours, Charter Cruises, Charter Packages, Church Group Trips, Cruises, Destination Weddings, Discount Travel, Disney Vacations, Dream Vacations, Eco-Friendly Vacations, Escorted Vacations, Exotic Destinations, Family Vacations, Fishing Expeditions, Gift Certificates Available, Golf Vacations, Green Vacations, Rail Trips, Resorts Packages, River Cruises, Road Trips, Safaris, Sightseeing Tours, Ski Vacations, Spring Break Packages, Student Trips, Travel Packages, Wedding Packages, Whale Watching Cruises, Wine Tours, Worldwide Tours, Disney Cruises