
15 Best Things to Do in Istanbul
The mosques, bazaars, and neighborhoods worth your time in Turkey's largest city.
City guides, food, and planning advice for Turkey, written for travelers who want more than a beach week.
Nine city guides cover the places most visitors actually go: Istanbul, Cappadocia, the Mediterranean coast, and the Aegean. Each lists attractions, food, and practical tips.

Historic mosques and bazaars on the European side, food markets and quieter streets on the Asian side

A big resort city with Roman ruins, a walkable old town, and long beaches on the Turquoise Coast

A harbor town near the Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz, with paragliding from Babadağ and boat trips to twelve islands

A resort town in a mountain-ringed bay, with a big marina and a busy bar street

Castle views, wide beaches, and some of the cheapest paragliding on the Mediterranean

Sunrise balloon flights over a landscape of rock cones, cave churches, and underground cities

A small diving town with Lycian tombs in its streets and boat trips to the sunken city at Kekova

An Aegean resort with a Crusader castle, the site of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, and a big marina

Turkey's third-largest city, with a long waterfront, the Kemeraltı bazaar, and day trips to Ephesus

White travertine terraces and thermal pools, with the ruins of Hierapolis on the plateau above
Turkish food goes far beyond kebabs. Our guides cover breakfast culture, street food, home recipes, and the spices that hold it all together.
Master 15 authentic Turkish dishes with step-by-step instructions from köfte to baklava
Discover the world's best breakfast tradition with regional specialties and cultural insights

Döner, balık ekmek, and the rest of the street food repertoire, with city guides and vendor tips
Master essential Ottoman spices and ingredients with sourcing tips and authentic usage
Book these popular activities before they sell out
Hotels and activities in the destinations our guides cover
Historic city spanning Europe and Asia
Fairy chimneys and hot air balloons
Mediterranean coast and ancient ruins
Aegean coast and late-night bars
Stay connected throughout your trip
Convenient parking for road trips
Start your day with authentic flavors
Renowned Turkish hospitality
Popular tours sell out in high season, so book the big ones early.
Guides and tips from people who spend a lot of time in Turkey

Everything you need to know about booking the perfect hot air balloon experience in Cappadocia.

Beaches, Roman ruins, and the old town of Kaleiçi in Turkey's tourism capital.

Turkey Tourism's liberal coastal city and one of the world's best-preserved ancient sites.
Fresh travel tips, guides and stories to help you plan your trip to Turkey.