What to visit in Istanbul for free?

You can explore Istanbul's rich history and vibrant culture for free by visiting stunning mosques like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Suleymaniye Mosque, wandering historic districts like Balat and Sultanahmet, relaxing in parks like Gülhane, browsing the Grand Bazaar, and taking in views from Pierre Loti Hill or along the Bosphorus.

What to see for free in Istanbul?

The 20 best free things to do in Istanbul

• Tour Istanbul's beautiful mosques. ...
• Take a picnic to Gülhane Park. ...
• Marvel at the 4th-century Aqueduct of Valens. ...
• Enjoy the renovated Church of St Stephen of the Bulgars. ...
• Wander along the Hünkâr Kasrı, a pavilion fit for a sultan. ...
• Explore the treasure-filled Grand Bazaar.

What should you not miss in Istanbul?

Top Things to Do in Istanbul. East meets West in this bustling city. Explore icons like Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia, or see them all on a walking tour. A scenic cruise on the Bosphorus is also a must.

What to do in Istanbul on a budget?

Explore Istanbul's Historic Landmarks for Free

1. Sultanahmed Square. Sultanahmed Square. ...
2. Blue Mosque. Blue Mosque. ...
3. Suleymaniye Mosque. Outside the Suleymaniye Mosque. ...
4. Spice Bazaar. Spice Bazaar – Free things to do in Istanbul. ...
5. Seven Hills Restaurant. View of Hagia Sophia from Seven Hills Restaurant. ...
6. Galata Tower Area.

What to beware of in Turkey?

Terrorism

• public buildings.
• places of worship.
• airports.
• large public gatherings, including major events, public holidays, religious occasions.

Traditional Food & Winter Drinks in Istanbul- Tourists DON'T KNOW Here! (VEFA)

What is not acceptable in Turkey?

It is important to take care not to say anything offensive about the Turkish nation or the Turkish flag or to write such things on social media. It is also a criminal offence to deface or tear up Turkish currency. The penalty for these crimes is from 6 months up to 3 years imprisonment.

What is famous in Istanbul to buy?

If you're wondering what to buy in Istanbul, here are 10 must-have Istanbul souvenirs that capture the essence of this enchanting city.

• Turkish Carpets & Kilims. ...
• Evil Eye (Nazar Boncuğu) Charms. ...
• Turkish Delight (Lokum) ...
• Hand-Painted Ceramics. ...
• Turkish Spices & Saffron. ...
• Hammam Towels (Peshtemals) ...
• Copperware & Coffee Sets.

Can I wear jeans in Istanbul?

Yes, you can absolutely wear jeans in Istanbul for everyday exploring, as they are common and acceptable for both tourists and locals, but it's wise to dress more modestly (covering shoulders/knees) and carry a scarf for visiting mosques, and opt for lighter pants in hot summer months.
 

Do and don'ts in Turkey?

When visiting Turkey, do dress modestly (especially at religious sites), accept tea/hospitality, try local food (like baklava), bargain respectfully in markets, use right hand for eating/passing items, and remove shoes at homes/mosques; don't wear shorts in mosques, speak loudly in places of worship, show excessive public affection, drink alcohol in public, insult the Turkish flag/nation, or use your left hand for dining/passing. Be aware of surroundings, especially regarding scams and sensitive topics like politics or religion.
 

What's cheap to buy in Istanbul?

Compared with other cities in European countries, Istanbul can be significantly cheaper, but this depends on what you're looking for and where you make your purchases. Products like tea, leather, cotton, ceramics and spices are cheaper, since many of them are produced locally and make for practical souvenirs.

What is the most beautiful part of Istanbul?

Istanbul's most Beautiful Sightseeing Places

• Eminönü ...
• Istiklal Street. ...
• Balat. ...
• İstanbul Boğazı ...
• Maiden's Tower. ...
• Galata Tower. ...
• Çamlıca Hill. ...
• Pierre Loti Hill. Pierre Loti Hill, located in the Eyüp Sultan district, is one of the hills where the Golden Horn view and the best view of Istanbul can be seen.

What is the number one thing to see in Istanbul?

Hagia Sophia is one of the most famous buildings in the world and probably my #1 place to visit in Istanbul…it's just so beautiful! The building has served three different religions—pagan, Eastern Orthodox Christian, and Sunni Muslim.

Is Hagia Sophia free for tourists?

Current Visitor Rules as of January 15, 2024

Admission Fee: €25 for all visitors, including Turkish citizens and foreigners who have a legal residence permit in Turkey. First floor of Hagia Sophia is free only for Muslim visitors during prayer time. Children younger than 8 are allowed in for free.

What is the cheapest area in Istanbul?

The Cheapest Neighborhoods in Istanbul

1. Esenyurt Neighborhood. Get a free real estate consultation. ...
2. Sultanbeyli. Sultanbeyli, in Istanbul's north, is home to most non-Turkish citizens who choose not to speak Turkish as their mother tongue. ...
3. Büyükçekmece Neighborhood. ...
4. Arnavutkoy Neighborhood. ...
5. Tuzla Neighborhood. ...
6. Silivri. ...
7. Avcilar.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for outfits?

The "333 rule" in clothing refers to two popular minimalist fashion concepts: the viral TikTok trend of using 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 shoes to create numerous outfits (9 items total) for styling practice, and the more extensive Project 333, where you select 33 items (including clothes, shoes, and accessories) to wear for three months, excluding essentials like underwear, workout gear, and sleepwear, to simplify your wardrobe and reduce decision fatigue. Both methods focus on versatility, quality over quantity, and creating a functional capsule wardrobe.

What is not allowed to bring in Turkey?

There are some Turkey prohibited items such as fresh or packaged food, fruit, eggs, meat, dairy products. Pack or two of cookies will not cause any problems though. There is no limit on currency but you will need to declare amounts over 3000 GBP.

Can I wear sandals to Hagia Sophia?

Footwear: Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque, and it's customary to leave them outside the entrance or place them in provided storage areas. Loose-Fitting Clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothing is recommended to adhere to the modesty standards of the mosque.

What to bring home from Turkey?

Carpets, evil eye charms, ceramics, Turkish delight, spices, and leather goods are the most popular.

What is the most sold souvenir?

While it varies by location, the most sold souvenir globally is often cited as the Eiffel Tower keychain from France, though other top contenders include general items like fridge magnets, mugs, and local sweets or crafts (like amber in the Baltics or Blue Mountain coffee in Jamaica), reflecting affordable, iconic, and practical keepsakes.
 

What is worth buying at Grand Bazaar?

Ceramics

Iznik bowls and other Turkish ceramics are hot items that you can pick up at the Grand Bazaar. There are plenty of kiosks that sell colorful modern and traditional ceramics. There are hanging ornaments, ornate plates, mugs, ashtrays, vases, and even cute animal figurines.

Which of the 7 wonders are in Turkey?

Located between Izmir and Kusadasi on Mount Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

What should you not miss in Turkey?

12 unmissable things to do in Türkiye

• Tour the ancient city of Ephesus. ...
• Soak in a Turkish bath. ...
• See Cappadocia from above and below. ...
• Feast on a fish meze. ...
• Shop in Türkiye's colorful bazaars. ...
• Cruise turquoise waters on a gület. ...
• Admire architectural splendor in İstanbul. ...
• Hike the Lycian Way.