Must-Sees

Istanbul Old City Must-Sees

Four landmarks tell the clearest story of Istanbul's Old City. See what each adds, how long it takes and which ticket covers it.

Written and reviewed by Melike · Founder & Editor
Updated June 2026 · Editorial Policy

45-90 min

Hagia Sophia

The essential first stop for Byzantine architecture, mosaics and Ottoman history.

From €28Book Tickets

30-60 min

Free-entry active mosque known for Iznik tiles, six minarets and its courtyard.

Audio combo from €30.49View Audio Combo

45-60 min

An atmospheric underground Byzantine water chamber a short walk away.

Two-attraction combo from €85View Cistern Combo

2-3 hours

Ottoman imperial courtyards, collections and Bosphorus views for a fuller history day.

Included through the complete Old City comboView Old City Combo

Start with Hagia Sophia, continue to Topkapi Palace, visit Basilica Cistern after lunch and finish at the Blue Mosque outside prayer time.