Istanbul Things To Do

Better known as the Blue Mosque after the mainly blue Iznik tiles that line its walls, this glorious 17th-century building faces the church of Aya Sofya at the heart of Old Istanbul.

Housed in a converted warehouse, Istanbul’s modern art gallery offers an introduction to Turkish artists including 19th-century Orientalist Osman Hamdi Bey and contemporary artist Burhan Dogancay. The café is also worth visiting.

Soak off the day’s exertions in a Turkish Bath built by the 16th-century Ottoman architect Sinan. Separate sections for men and women, plus gratuity-inclusive prices, ensure a hassle-free visit.

Turks are fanatical soccer fans. For a taste of local sports culture, grab a ticket to see home team Fenerbahce play on the Asian side of town during the winter.

Scoop the best Istanbul views on a cruise up to Anadolu Kavagi, bypassing Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Hisari Castle, and both Bosphorus bridges on the way. Keyif Organizasyon arranges private, custom-designed trips for one to 400 people.

Banned by Ataturk in 1925, this religious ceremony (called a sema) has recently made a comeback. On summer Sundays watch the unforgettable dervishes whirl in the wooden-floored, 18th-century Galata Mevlevihanesi building.

Home to Ottoman Sultans for 380 years, the 15th century palace opened to the public in 1924. The 861,112-square-foot grounds encompass the sultan’s living area, concubine dormitories, and the chamber of sacred relics.