Places to visit in Istanbul in one day: must-see attractions

In this guide, we have added a lot of the city’s highlights to explore in just one day. So from timeless mosques to beautiful local neighbourhoods, a lot of places to visit in Istanbul in one day are located extremely close to each other. The most popular way to get around is simply by walking. Thus comfortable shoes are a must.

In this guide, we have provided a comprehensive itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this city. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Istanbul promises an unforgettable journey filled with discoveries at every turn.

The top 10 places to visit in Istanbul In one day are

• Sultanahmet park
• The blue mosque
• Topkapi palace
• Hippodrome of constantipole
• Basilica cistern
• Bosphorus river cruise
• The grand bazaar
• Hagia Sophia
• Archaeological Museum
• Galata Bridge & Galata tower

1. Sultanahmet Park

Originally a part of the Byzantine era, one of its most prominent features is the obelisk of Theodosius, an ancient monument dating back to the 15th century. The park’s central location makes it an ideal starting point to explore nearby attractions like the blue mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace and must-see places to visit in Istanbul in one day. 

Entry fee: Free

2. The blue mosque

It is considered to be one of the most popular places to visit in Istanbul in one day which draws tons of visitors towards it due to its breathtaking beauty. This iconic attraction is a must-visit for every traveler and it gives a chance to the visitors to soak into the culture and tradition of the Islamic Ottoman Empire. This historic mosque features wonderfully curvaceous exteriors and six slender minarets. It got its nickname from the blue Iznik Tiles that are present inside the mosque. 

Entry fees: Free

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3. Topkapi palace

This palace is one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul and must-see places to visit in Istanbul in one day and served as the administrative quarter of the Ottoman rulers and is a must-see places to visit in Istanbul in one day. This complex features opulent courtyards lined with hand-painted tile work and decorated rooms. The main highlight of Topkapi Palace is the Harem, where the Sultan’s concubines used to spend their time. It also has an imperial council chamber, an imperial treasury, and a sacred safekeeping room.

Today Topkapi Palace stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It serves as a museum, inviting visitors to explore its halls, and architectural wonders and immerse themselves in the splendor of Ottoman culture and heritage.

Entry fee: 72 Liras

4. Hippodrome of constantipole

In the Hippodrome there are two obelisks. The Obelisk of Theodosius is the ancient Egyptian obelisk of King Tuthmosis III. It was erected in the 15th century BC at the Temple of Karnak in Luxor. It was moved to Istanbul in the 4th century AD by Roman Emperor Theodosius I. The Walled Obelisk, the older-looking of the two obelisks, is younger than the Egyptian obelisk. It is a must-see places to visit in  Istanbul in one day.

Entry fees: Free

5. Basilica cistern

These were selected from other oldest structures throughout the Eastern Roman Empire and are all unique. When visiting make sure you look out for two columns near the back of the system that famously feature carvings of snake-haired medusa at their base. It is one of the must-see places to visit in Istanbul in one day.

Entry fees: 20 Lira

6. Bosphorus river cruise

More than this a cruise along the Bosphorus allows you to see Istanbul from a different perspective. There is a lot more to discover along the waterway including fabulous Ottoman mansions and more dazzling mosques such as Ortakoy.

 Entry fees: 4900 INR onwards

7. The Grand Bazaar

It consists of thousands of shops where you can buy everything ranging from silk garments to jewelry to leather and carpets. This Bazaar has 40 rest houses, 18 gates,61 covered streets, and 25,000 full-time staff. The 554-year-old Bazaar is the perfect place to end your tour by stocking up some souvenirs for your loved ones. It is an unmissable places to visit in Istanbul in one day.

Entry fees: Free

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8. Hagia Sophia

Turned into a museum in 1934 due to its unique and culturally diverse history, the centerpiece of Hagia Sophia is 30 meters wide dome 56 meters in height. Controversially Hagia Sophia was turned back into a mosque in 2020. Visitors are still welcome.

Entry fees: Free

9. Archaeological Museum

The archaeological museum itself contains artifacts from Ancient Anatolia, Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece and includes sculptures, ceramics, coins, and sarcophagi. 

The Museum of the Ancient Orient focuses on the ancient Near East, displaying Cuneiform tablets and Assyrian reliefs. The Museum of Islamic Art showcases artifacts like textiles and manuscripts.

Entry fee: 100 Liras

10. Galata Bridge & Galata tower

Galata Bridge – Spread over the Golden Horn, the Galata Bridge connects the neighborhoods of Eminonu and Galata. The current bridge, completed in 1994, replaced earlier iterations dating back to the Ottoman period. The bridge is not only a vital transportation artery, but it’s also a social hub bustling with activity. The Galata Bridge is also famous for its numerous restaurants located on floating pontoons where visitors can get fresh seafood.

Entry fees: 35 Turkish Liras for adults to enter Galata Tower.