Istanbul Culture: Unmissable things for curious minds to explore

Stepping foot onto the winding, maze-like streets of Istanbul is an intoxicating experience. Immediately you experience a kaleidoscope of senses that command your attention, left, right and centre. From the swathes of people meandering their way across squares and streets to the clamour of the markets; the smell of the spice-tinged air as delicious food tempts you into a local restaurant and the colourful, ornate buildings catching your eye at every turn - this city is a feast for the eyes and mind. If you are planning a trip to the Turkish capital, read on to discover our take on the best of Istanbul culture. 

Hagia Sophia is one of the most visited museums in both Turkey and the rest of the world, due to its significant artistic and architectural achievements, as well as its rich history, religious importance and extraordinary beauty. The museum dates back to the 6th century and is renowned for its preserved mosaics, featuring 30 million gold tiles, and its 6th-century dome. If you are looking for an awe-inspiring insight into Istanbul culture, this is a must. The Hagia Sophia is on the list of places to go in Istanbul for art lovers and is one of the most cherished landmarks in the city.

Facing the Hagia Sophia across a small park and mirroring its domed silhouette, the 17th-century Blue Mosque provides a dazzling scene straight from the pages of a fairytale. This landmark has become one of the top places to visit in Istanbul and is one of only a handful of mosques in the world to boast six minarets. Aside from its incredible exterior, the mosque is adored for its interior decoration of tens of thousands of İznik tiles.

The entire spatial and colour effect of the interior make the mosque one of the finest achievements of Ottoman architecture. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the gardens sandwiched between the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia, where you can admire their mirroring domes.  

Over the past decade, Istanbul has become known as one of the world's hubs of contemporary art, and hundreds of galleries have opened to exhibit the works of thousands of talented artists. As Turkey's first modern art museum, Istanbul Modern is an Istanbul must-see for culture lovers, where you can take some time to discover local and foreign painters of the 19th and 20th centuries, photographers, and creative videographers. As well as boasting an extensive collection of Turkish art, the museum also stages a constantly changing program of mixed-media exhibitions by high-profile local and international artists. This is an almost compulsory stop for art lovers when searching for Istanbul culture. 

One of Istanbul’s incredible historical buildings is the Basilica Cistern, built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. Venture into this huge underground palace that is filled with ancient wonders such as the column bases, known as the Medusa stones in the northwest corner with their Medusa head carvings, and the Hen’s Eye Column. 

This sunken palace is one of the best activities in Istanbul for history buffs. So much so that they have previously shot scenes of Hollywood movies in it! Be sure to check out this mesmerising landmark and enjoy its mystical ambience between 9 am-7 pm every day.  

As the symbol of the city, Topkapi Palace is now the most visited museum in Istanbul, receiving nearly three million visitors every year. The Topkapi Palace Museum is notable not only for its architecture and collections but also for the history and culture of the Ottoman Empire that it recalls. If you want a unique insight into Istanbul culture, add this treasure to your list. A collection of lush green courtyards and delicate kiosks, the Topkapi boasts a treasury, as well as views to die for over the Sea of Marmara, Bosporus and Golden Horn. Many interesting stories and legends are connected with Topkapi Palace, so it’s definitely one of the must-do things in Istanbul if you’re keen to discover more about the city’s history and culture.  

Istanbul has more than its fair share of Byzantine monuments, but few are as incredible as this mosaic- and fresco-laden church. The Kariye Museum is often named one of the best religious Istanbul tourist attractions. It boasts a masterful and aesthetically stunning interior that is entirely covered in fine mosaics and frescoes, reflecting the lives of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. Like so many of Istanbul's historical buildings, the Kariye Museum has a long and chequered past that reveals as much about the history of Istanbul, as it does the museum itself. If you are keen to explore the range of things on the Istanbul culture hotlist that verge slightly off the beaten track, a trip to the Kariye Museum is a must.

Pop along to the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum for a fascinating insight into the complexity and depth of traditional arts. The impressive collection contains services as an Islamic art gallery, featuring fine examples of calligraphy in Islamic art, Islamic art paintings, Islamic abstract art and contemporary Islamic art. There is also an enthralling ethnography section, containing information about Anatolian life. The majestic building is made of cool darkened rooms, set around a central garden courtyard, so prepare to be amazed as you enjoy one of the more unusual things to do in Istanbul!    

Take in dramatic panoramic views at The Galata Tower – a recognizable symbol of the city's skyline, towering at nearly 67 metres high. This is one of Istanbul’s most iconic visuals, overlooking Beyoğlu and Karaköy from its perched position, where you can admire the colourful lights of the towers shimmering at night all over the city. Have a meal or enjoy a drink at the restaurant and cafe located at the top and soak up the city views - one of the most recommended ways to enjoy Istanbul culture while on your travels. 

As you can see, Istanbul culture is a very large topic. However, make the most of your trip by planning where you want to be spending your time in advance. Neighbourhoods like Galata offer a trendy melting pot of cultures and creative styles and since they are on the fringes of the action, they make beautiful places to retreat to for a spot of shopping or a calming coffee when inner-city Istanbul sends your senses into overdrive.