Istanbul is one of the world's great cities for free exploration. The historic peninsula, the Golden Horn waterfront, and the hilltops of both the European and Asian sides offer an extraordinary range of experiences without an entrance fee. This guide covers the ten best free things to do in Istanbul, including one important fee update every visitor needs to know before they arrive.

Start with getting there: search flights to Istanbul on Traveloka and compare options across Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen.

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque -- known widely as the Blue Mosque -- has six minarets and Iznik tiles covering its interior. Free to enter for visitors outside of the five daily prayer times (approximately 90 minutes total). Visitors must remove shoes and cover their shoulders; head coverings for women are available at the entrance at no charge.

Designed by Mimar Sinan in 1557 for Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Considered one of the finest examples of classical Ottoman architecture. The courtyard has outstanding views over the Golden Horn. Free entry. Same dress code applies.

Hidden above the spice market area in Eminonu. Another Mimar Sinan design, with Iznik tiles covering virtually every surface -- walls, columns, and arches. Considered one of the finest tiled interiors in Istanbul. Free entry.

Since 15 January 2024, Hagia Sophia charges a €25 tourist entry fee. The exterior and Sultanahmet Square remain free. Do not plan for free entry -- budget for the €25 fee if you plan to enter.

Grand Bazaar: one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world: 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops. Entry is free. Typically open Monday to Saturday. Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar): near the Galata Bridge in Eminonu, famous for spices, dried fruits, Turkish delight, and loose-leaf teas. Entry is free.

Istanbul has outstanding paid experiences too -- guided Bosphorus cruises, cooking classes, and historical walking tours. Browse activities in Istanbul on Traveloka.

Balat and Fener: historic neighbourhoods on the Golden Horn with colourful Ottoman-era houses and cobblestoned streets. Best on weekday mornings. Free. Galata Bridge Walk: lined with fishermen on both upper and lower decks. Views to Sultanahmet's minarets. Free. Sultanahmet Square: free to wander; contains the ancient Egyptian Obelisk of Thutmose III (1450 BC) and the Serpent Column. Ortaköy waterfront: free neighbourhood below the Bosphorus Bridge, with a small baroque mosque on the waterfront. Camlica Hill (Asian side): Istanbul's highest point, free entry to the hilltop park, 360-degree panorama of the Bosphorus. Gulhane Park: free public garden adjacent to the walls of Topkapi Palace (Topkapi itself requires a ticket).

The Sultanahmet and Beyoglu districts are the most central bases for exploring the free sites. Search and compare hotels in Istanbul on Traveloka across all neighbourhoods and price points.

Istanbul's trams, metro, buses, and ferry lines are well-connected and affordable when using a rechargeable contactless transit card available at major transit hubs. Mosques close to tourists for approximately 30 to 90 minutes during each of the five daily prayer times. For getting to and from the airport, book your airport transfer in advance. Exploring beyond Istanbul? A car rental is great for day trips. Check Traveloka promotions for the latest deals before finalising your booking.

Traveloka, Southeast Asia's leading travel platform, makes planning a trip to Istanbul simple. Trusted by over 100 million users, Traveloka brings flights, hotels, activities, car rentals, eSIM coverage, and travel insurance together in one app. Download the Traveloka app and start building your Istanbul itinerary today.