Istanbul Day trips

Step into Istanbul's enchanting narrative, where East meets West and millennia of history unfold. From Byzantine churches to Ottoman palaces, the city’s architectural landmarks are living chronicles of its vibrant past. Savor diverse street food in Istanbul, find tranquil moments by the Bosphorus, and watch the sunset paint the sky. Whether you're exploring bustling bazaars or serene gardens, Istanbul's magic weaves through every experience. Explore this city straddling two continents, where each historic landmark offers a journey through time and culture.

Istanbul’s landmarks at a glance

Most-visited landmark: The Hagia Sophia

Oldest landmark: The Basilica Cistern, constructed in the 6th century

Largest green space: Belgrad Forest, with over 5,800 hectares

There is something for everyone in Istanbul, the city has been a fascinating travel destination for thousands of years. Many civilizations have controlled the city and left their own distinctive mark on its cuisine. Despite the fact that the city is spread across two continents, the food scene has many classics.

Simit is a staple in Istanbul’s food stalls and bakeries. Often referred to as the Turkish bagel, this crunchy sesame-crusted bread is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re wandering through the historic Sultanahmet district or exploring the vibrant streets of Taksim, you’ll find simit vendors at every corner.

What is simit?

Simit is a braided, circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds. Common throughout Turkey, it is well loved for its crispy exterior and soft interior, simit is often enjoyed plain or with accompaniments like cheese, olives, or jam.

It’s a popular snack you’ll see people enjoying all over Istanbul, whether relaxing in cafes or grabbing a quick bite from street vendors.

Why is Istanbul so well-known for simit?

Istanbul has cherished simit for hundreds of years, with vendors selling it as early as the 16th century. In the centuries that followed it became popular among nobles, and Turkish sultans often gifted the bread to their soldiers during Ramadan.

Today, Turkish citizens from all walks of life enjoy simit. It’s more than just a snack; it represents Istanbul’s street food scene and serves as a signature bread of Turkey.

What is the best time to eat simit in Istanbul?

Many people enjoy simit plain, paired with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee to start their day. Street vendors and bakeries offer fresh simit throughout the day — making it a convenient snack.

Whether plain or with cheese or fruit preserves, there isn’t really a wrong way to enjoy this treat.

Kadıköy is the heart of Istanbul’s Asian side. It is relaxed, creative, and full of local life. This is where people come for long breakfasts, secondhand bookshops, open-air markets, and sunset walks along the Moda waterfront. You’ll find colorful murals in Yeldeğirmeni, the grand Süreyya Opera House, and everyday scenes that feel far from the city’s tourist core. Cafés, record shops, and ferry horns all blend into the background here.

In this Kadıköy guide, we’ll walk you through the top things to do in Kadıköy, from market mornings and bookstore browsing to art-lined streets and seaside evenings.

Istanbul in January transforms into a cozier version of itself, as this incredibly cosmopolitan city feels much more intimate than in summer. Your first time in Istanbul might actually be better in winter, when you can warm up in a traditional Turkish hammam, sip on warming salep while exploring the sleepy streets, and visit the city’s iconic landmarks without the crowds.

In January, you can witness one of Istanbul’s most unique traditions, the Epiphany cross-diving ceremony. While in the evening, you’ll find plenty of indoor activities, like watching a Whirling Dervishes ceremony or dining at cozy restaurants with the locals.

Why go to Istanbul in January?

January prices are some of the lowest all year

Hotel prices in Istanbul in January drop by about a third compared to peak season, putting many luxury options within your budget. This can help you book accommodations that are more conveniently located in central neighborhoods like Karaköy or Cihangir to really make the most of your trip.

You might see snow on the mosques in January

There’s something magical about seeing Istanbul’s iconic minarets dusted in snow. If you’re lucky, January brings the rare chance to see the Sultan Ahmed Mosque and Suleymaniye Mosque with a light cover of snow, which most tourists never get the chance to experience.

Museums stay comfortably heated and uncrowded

If the winter chill gets too much, there’s no shortage of indoor attractions in Istanbul to enjoy, from wandering through the opulent chambers of Topkapı Palace to exploring the fascinating collections of the Istanbul Archaeology Museums. Plus, without the big summer crowds, you can stand as long as you want in front of the Alexander Sarcophagus or Ottoman jewels without anyone ushering you on or blocking your view.

Istanbul becomes a city of locals again during January

What is Istanbul like in January? With visitor numbers hitting their annual low, you’ll get a rare glimpse of authentic daily life in Istanbul. You can linger in cozy cafes, chat with shopkeepers who aren’t overwhelmed by tourists, and dine in neighborhood spots where you're likely the only visitor.

You’ll score easy restaurant reservations at top spots

Being the low season, restaurants that are usually fully packed or require bookings weeks in advance will welcome you with open arms in January. Even famous fish restaurants along the Bosphorus Strait generally have plenty of window tables available on January evenings.

What’s the weather like in Istanbul in January?

Istanbul weather in January is cold and humid with occasional snowfall, strong Bosphorus winds, and shorter daylight hours. You'll need warm layers, waterproof boots, an umbrella, and a coat for outdoor sightseeing.

• Average day temperature: 45 F (7 C)
• Average night temperature: 37 F (3 C)
• Average days of rain: 17 days
• Average days of sun: 10 days

Top things to do in Istanbul in January