Things Every First Timer Should Do in Istanbul | Istanbul Ultimate Guide 2023

Hello, everyone. Every time we travel to a new country we are always wondering what are those special things that we can base it on as a first timer in that place. So this is why in this content, we will love to tell you what every first-timer in Istanbul should do. So if you want to discover these places, then read this content with us!

Visiting Mosques:

When in Turkey, We highly recommend you visit some mosques because you will learn away from the beautiful architecture that each one of the folds in. Of course, they are very historical justice. The one behind me, which is the blue most. And even though it's currently under restoration, you can BCIT many others such as right now, since the, I guess if you're already changed into a mosque, you can also be seated for free, and there are many around the city and whole country.

Turkish Bath (Haman):

Another thing that you must do and should be included in your book at least is to experience the Turkish bath in Turkish known as her mum. And this is a beautiful way, how you can pamper yourself and also experience something very important in front of Turkish culture. Of course, it can be found from many ranges and prices and everything depends if the Hamam is in a Teresa area or not. So the more tourist it is, obviously the more expensive it will be.

Visiting Places in Istanbul:

Istanbul also has many places that we can visit and we can have from the oldest ones, just as the one behind me, which is a tub puppet palace, where we can see beautiful architecture, especially with many towels from Islamic tiles, adorning the place as well. We can find other palaces like those and those ones are a bit more modern. And also we can see the transition between the architecture in the city, which is a fascinating thing to do here as well.

Visiting a Cistern:

Don't forget to also visit one of the many sisters that Istanbul has. One of the most famous ones in tourism is the one called or in English is the Basilica sister. I'm first and only right now is closed due to some restorations, but you can also see many others. For example, you can also visit the Serefiye or Bimbirdirek cisterns. And this is quite stunning as well.

Local Markets or Bazaars Istanbul

Don't miss visiting any of the local markets or bazaars in Istanbul. Istanbul is famous because here also you will be able to bargain, it's part of their culture. So get ready to use your best techniques for bargaining. Remember that here in Istanbul, we also have the Grand Bazaar, which is one of the largest and oldest covered bazaars in the world. The famous spice bazaar where we can find the most exotic flavors in the city. And also there are many local shops around the special bazaar where you can find many products from souvenirs, foods and also things for your home decor. So don't forget to come into any of these areas.

Fatih Carsamba Pazari

Also, there are many markets within the city that are famous among the locals. For example, every day of the week, they have designated one market in one of the local neighborhoods. For example on Wednesdays, you can visit the famous or the largest local market, which is called Fatih. Also on Tuesday and Friday, you can cross the Asian side and visit the Kadikoy market. And there are many more exploring the Bosphorus, strait through any of the Bosporus tours that you can find here in the city. And there are many ports where you can take them from and the closest ones to the touristic area, such as Sultanahmet or Taksim, are here in Eminonu port, from here.

Taking A Ferry Ride:

You can also take any ferry, which is public transportation going to the princess’ islands, and also those ferry crossings from Eminonu to Kadikoy or Uskudar on the Asian side. So from this point, you will be able to find any ferry or tour that you will be looking for.

Visit Galata Tower:

One of the best things to do here in Istanbul is of course enjoying some of the best views of the city from above, and one of the best places for that is of course the Galata tower. Let's remember that GalataTower is one of the oldest ones in the world, and nowadays you can go all the way up to enjoy some of the best 360-degree views of Istanbul. There are many other places where you can enjoy beautiful views of the city but one of my favorite ones is, of course, the Galata Tower.

Eating Local Food:

As in any other country in the world, also in Turkey, we need to give us the opportunity to try as many Turkish dishes as we can and because also, Turkish cuisine is very delicious and tasty and you will not regret tasting any of these specialties. Also, you can try a variety of Turkish street foods such as Kokorec or middle. These two are some of my two favorite street foods, but there are tons of kebabs, seafood dishes and meats, and so on. Also, Turkish desserts are so delicious from baklava, Kunef, Turkish delight so don't miss the opportunity because remember that also it’s a great way for getting into the culture of this country.

Watch The Sunset:

Chase some of the most beautiful sunsets. My favorite sunset points are from the Maiden’s Tower, Kadikoy Sahil, or even on a ferry for sure. You'll be able to capture wonderful photos. Enjoy the views in the most beautiful emblematic points. Ortakoy is famous for its beautiful mosque and the Bosphorus bridge. Also here, you can find a lively environment with lots of restaurants and cafes. I recommend you visit the area, especially at night when the bridge is illuminated.

Visiting Local Neighbourhoods:

Apart from the major tourist attractions. There are also many interesting local neighbourhoods that you can get to visit this way. You'll be able to immerse yourself in the daily life of the Turkish people. Some of my favorite neighborhoods are Kizguncuk, Cengelkoy, Kadikoy, all on the Asian side of the city or balat or Arnavutkoy and Bebek, on the European side.

Take a ferry ride to any of the Princes’ Islands where you'll have the opportunity for renting a bike. If you want to explore the island in a more exciting way, or just take a walk and enjoy the stunning views of the sea of Marmara, the main and largest island is Buyukada but you can also visit:

• Heybeliada 

• Buegazada 

• or Kinaliada. 

Have a Turkish Breakfast

A must when visiting Turkey is having a famous and delicious Turkish breakfast, there are plenty of good places in Istanbul to choose from.

Visiting Tulip Festival:

Although this is a seasonal activity, if you're planning on visiting Istanbul during April, then this is a great option to admire one of the most beautiful flowers.

During this month, Istanbul is fully adorned with colourful tulips, but the best place to see them is in Emirgan Park, where we'll be able to see thousands of them in just one place. 

So these are some of the recommendations that we want to give to every first-timer in Istanbul. If you like the content and found that helpful, please don't forget to give it your feedback that way. We can also reach more people like you who are looking for information about this wonderful city for more informative and useful content about Istanbul. See you next time….