Istanbul's tourist attractions let you experience history, the sea, and bustling markets all in one city, which is why so many people love to visit. The city is split between a European side and an Asian side, and each area has its own character and atmosphere. In this guide, we'll point you to the best areas and attractions, then explain each place and how to visit it.
The Bosphorus Strait divides Istanbul into two sides: the European side, home to most of the historic landmarks and shopping, and the Asian side, known for its calm, local atmosphere and views. You can travel between them by ferry, which is a lovely experience in itself.
Built in the 6th century as a Byzantine church, it became a mosque after the Ottoman conquest, then a museum, and was converted back into a mosque in 2020. Its highlights are the huge dome, the Byzantine mosaics, and the large Arabic calligraphy on the walls. It's best to go in the morning to avoid the crowds, and check the entry rules and ticket details before your visit, since they change.
Directly opposite Hagia Sophia, it's called the Blue Mosque because of the blue Iznik tiles that decorate its interior. It has 6 minarets and entry is free, but it closes during prayer times and visitors must dress modestly.
For centuries, this was the residence of the Ottoman sultans. It includes the Harem, the Throne Room, the royal kitchens, and the Holy Relics section, and its courtyards overlook the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara. Note that the palace is closed on Tuesdays, and the Harem requires a separate ticket.
An underground water reservoir from the Byzantine era, built in the 6th century, with 336 columns. Its most famous feature is the two Medusa heads used as bases for some of the columns. Inside, the atmosphere is quiet and specially lit, which makes it great for photos.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest covered markets in the world, with thousands of shops selling jewelry, carpets, leather, copperware, and gifts. The Spice Bazaar (also called the Egyptian Bazaar), near Eminönü, sells spices, tea, Turkish delight, and nuts.
Built by the Genoese in the 14th century, it's one of the city's most famous landmarks. From the top you get a full panorama of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus, and the best time to go up is about an hour before sunset.
This is the heart of modern Istanbul: a long pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, cafés, and dessert spots, with a red historic tram running down the middle. It comes alive in the evening and is great for shopping and eating.
A European-style palace on the shore of the Bosphorus, built in the 19th century, with ornate halls and huge crystal chandeliers. Atatürk died here in 1938. It's best to book your ticket in advance, since tours run on a schedule.
A small tower in the middle of the water near Üsküdar, tied to old tales and legends. You reach it by a small boat, and it has a restaurant, a café, and a beautiful view of the city. It's considered one of the best spots to watch the sunset.
The most famous neighborhood on the Asian side, known for its local markets, casual restaurants, cafés, and street art. You can stroll along Bar Street and the nearby Moda neighborhood. One of the nicest ways to get there is by ferry from Eminönü or Kabataş.
Close to the highest point in the city, it gives you a panoramic view of Istanbul and the Bosphorus from both sides. It has gardens, seating areas, and cafés, and it's a quiet place that suits families.
A group of islands in the Sea of Marmara, the best known being Büyükada, a ferry ride from the city. Regular cars aren't allowed, so you get around by bicycle or horse-drawn carriage, and you'll find old wooden villas and seafood restaurants. Plan a full day for them.
Not every place suits every traveler, so here's a breakdown by type of trip.
The Princes' Islands are a great fit because regular cars aren't allowed, so you get around by bicycle or horse-drawn carriage and the atmosphere is calm. Çamlıca Hill is a quiet spot with gardens, seating areas, and cafés, where families can relax at their own pace.
Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapı Palace are your main focus, and since Hagia Sophia sits directly opposite the Blue Mosque, you can see both on the same tour. Then add the Basilica Cistern to see the Byzantine side of the city underground.
The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar for gifts, spices, and Turkish delight, and İstiklal Avenue for shops, restaurants, and desserts, especially in the evening when it comes alive.
The cost of your trip depends on the season, the type of hotel, and how many paid attractions you visit. 2026 sources give slightly different figures because the Turkish lira and prices keep changing, so treat these numbers as rough estimates, not fixed prices, and check current prices before booking.
Entry fees are the most expensive part of the trip for foreign visitors, so plan for them from the start.
It's best to work out which places you'll visit before you travel. If you plan to visit state museums, the Museum Pass Istanbul costs about $124 and covers Topkapı Palace, the Harem, and the Archaeological Museums, but it doesn't include the Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahçe Palace, or Galata Tower.
Getting around Istanbul is cheap compared with other European cities. You can buy an Istanbulkart for about $3.5 and use it on the metro, trams, buses, and ferries. Paying with the Istanbulkart is cheaper than buying single cash tickets.
Hotel prices vary a lot by area and season. 3- and 4-star hotels usually cost around $90 to $210 per night, and prices are higher in Sultanahmet, close to the landmarks. If you want to save, look at hotels in Beyoğlu, Kadıköy, or Fatih.
Street food like simit, döner, and balık ekmek usually costs $3 to $10 per meal, so food won't strain your budget if you stick to small, local restaurants.
If you want to compare Istanbul with other affordable destinations for Iraqis, such as Georgia, Malaysia, and Bali, read our article Cheapest Travel Destinations for Iraqis 2026 to learn about the food, transportation, and visas in each country.
It depends on the season, the type of hotel, and how many paid attractions you visit. Your daily budget per person depends on which attractions you visit, where you eat, and how you get around.
The Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar are free. Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and Galata Tower charge an entry fee for foreign visitors.
Buy an Istanbulkart for about $3.5 and use it on the metro, trams, buses, and ferries. Paying with it is cheaper than buying single cash tickets.
Check out our complete guide to Türkiye to learn more about food, transportation, and daily life. And if you want to know the visa requirements and application steps, read our Türkiye visa guide.
You can also book flights to Istanbul and hotels in one place with Rahal.
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